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If you’re looking to hit the open road on two wheels, cruiser motorcycles are always a good option. Cruiser bikes provide a better seating position than most sportbikes and allow you to enjoy the journey on a slower and steady cruise, hence the name. If you’re interested in buying a cruiser bike and don’t know what to begin with, then here are five of the most affordable cruisers for beginning riders.

1. Honda Rebel 300 – $4,500

a static photo of the 2021 Honda Rebel 300 in blue
2021 Honda Rebel 300 | Honda

With an MSRP of just $4,500, the Honda Rebel 300 is an affordable entry-level bike that’s light and fun to ride. The Rebel 300 sports a reliable and user-friendly 286cc engine in addition to a low seat height and slipper/assist clutch that’s great for beginner riders. Cruiser notes that the Rebel 300 is reliable and easy to ride, but it can be entertaining for more experienced riders as well.

2. Suzuki Boulevard S40 – $5,799

a photo of a man in gear walking toward a Suzuki Boulevard S40
Suzuki Boulevard S40 | Suzuki

At only 381 pounds, the Suzuki Boulevard S40 provides riders with easy maneuverability in addition to a good seating position. Powering this entry-level bike is a small but potent 652cc four-stroke engine that’s paired to a five-speed transmission. What’s even better is that the Boulevard S40 is affordably priced at $5,799, so it’s great for anyone looking to get their feet wet in the cruiser world.  

3. Honda Rebel 500 – $6,199

a static photo of the 2020 Honda Rebel 500 with a city scape in the background.
2020 Honda Rebel 500 | Honda

Yes, the Honda Rebel 500 is basically the same bike as the Rebel 300, except for a larger engine. However, Cruiser reported that it’s a “better motorcycle” than its little Rebel 300 brother as it provides more power out of its 471cc parallel-twin engine and a better suspension. Also, with an MSRP of $6,199, it’s not too much more expensive than the Rebel 300.

4. Royal Enfield INT650 – $5,999

If you want a bigger bike with retro styling that makes it look like a throw-back to older British roadsters, then the Royal Enfield INT650 could be ideal for you. This cruiser is powered by a 648cc air-and-oil-cooled parallel-twin engine that produces 47 hp and is mated to a six-speed gearbox. Cruiser chose this INT650 as its “Bike of the Year” for 2019 because it’s easy to ride and easy to own, which should appeal to riders of every skill level.

5. Kawasaki Vulcan S – $7,099

a man riding a Kawasaki Vulcan S down a city street.
Kawasaki Vulcan S | Kawasaki

Those looking for a more futuristic-looking cruiser will like the Kawasaki Vulcan S. It has the stature of a cruising bike and silhouette of a sports bike, which is no wonder that it’s referred to as a “sports cruiser.” It’s cheap, as it starts at $7,099, but it has also has plenty of power from its 650cc twin engine. What we like best about it is its adjustable Ergo-Fit sizing system that allows for ergonomic adjustments to fit just about any rider.

The best affordable cruiser motorcycles for beginners

There are plenty more affordable bikes that are great for beginning riders. However, the aforementioned five offer a lot of maneuverability, comfort, and present a great value. For more advice and news on motorcycles, be sure to check out the 2 Wheels section on MotorBiscuit.com.

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