Today, we review the top 20 best small motorcycles available as of 2021in no particular order.
The motorcycle is a the quintessential symbol of freedom.
For the even more audacious, theres alsoadventure motorcyclesthat can take you beyond the blacktop to see untamed wilds.
via honda.com
Unlike the world-famous 90 and 110 models, the Trail125 is specced as a dual-sport spitfire.
Tucked inside the compact frame is Hondas bulletproof 124.9cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine.
Its enough oomph to handle whatever you throw at it, while sipping fuel for enhanced mileage.
The 2023 model does, however, up the compression ratio to 10:1 and adds a fifth gear.
Clearly, Honda has been listening to calls for zippier performance from their small motorcycles.
Moreover, at a featherweight 227 pounds, the Honda Grom is one of the lightest bikes around.
That allows the small output to feel exciting and corner like a screaming fiend.
Theres also a marginally more expensive Grom with ABS, but many riders will find it unnecessary.
Learn moreabout theHonda CB300R
4.
Still, theres some serious appeal in its retro styling.
Plenty of get-up-and-go for cruising around the city.
Sayonara, SR400, you will be missed.
Learn moreabout the Yamaha SR400
5.Yamaha TW200
The dirt bike body isnt just for show.
At almost 80 miles for each gallon, it wont slow you down.
Weighing in at just 364 pounds, the Rebel 300 handles whatever twists and turns you throw at it.
Ground clearance is just under 7, letting you eat speed bumps and sand dunes for breakfast.
Learn moreabout theKawasaki Ninja 650
13.Harley-Davidson Street 750
Harley Davidsons Streetcomes in both 500 and 750 sizes.
What we adore about the 750 is cruiser capabilities that give this a real long-haul feel.
Its got enough panther to slink and turn while still letting the world know youre riding a hog.
Best of all is thevintage aestheticthat hides a 390 cc engine that tops out at about 41 horses.
And you cant do better than the 803cc L-Twin that powers the playfulScrambler Iconbody.
Nimble yet smooth with snappy throttle response, youll have a blast with this classic-styled, chromed-out badass.
Learn moreabout the Yamaha V Star 250
18.
Theres also no bike on this list more comfortable or suitable for long-distance touring.
Completely optional, but nice to have in a long-hauler.
The chief concern here will be your seat.
Whats your pants inseam?
If its under 30, youre gonna want a smaller bike with a lower seat.
Weight
One of the main advantages of small motorcycles is that theyre generally under 500 pounds.
Engine
A defining constraint of how small a motorcycle can be is the size of the engine.
Its not a direct indicator of overall power, but it gives you an idea.
Most of the motorcycles on our list above are between 200-300cc, though anything under 500cc is considered small.
(Yes, we broke this rule on our list!)
Also pay attention to cylinders.
Youll generally see options of single-cylinder, two-cylinder, and four-cylinder engines (typically only in larger bikes).
The difference is mostly in how much torque the system generates.
Unlike cubes, the torque does directly translate into power.
Dont forget the power spectrum, either.
The answer will depend on where and how you intend to ride.
Safety
The old adage goes: not if, when.
And if you do go down, theres not as much mass to crush you into the pavement.
But, you cant just rely on size to keep you safe.
Look for bikes which offer some measure of additional safety features.
Thats fine, your style is something only it’s possible for you to determine.
But just keep in mind some styles of bikes excel in certain use-cases, and less so in others.
Careful though, as hogs make you look like a badass, with bolder shapes and typically chrome hardware.
A sport bike (crotch rocket) might be more your speed for commuting longer distances.
On the open road, good high-end performance is a life-saver.
Sport bikes are sleek, modern, and aggressive in appearance, with sharp angles and flashy colors.
Theyre a good candidate for ground effects, as well.
We hope our buyers guide helps you figure out what you want to ride.
