10 Of The Best Budget-Friendly Motorcycles Under $6000 (According To Reviews)

The motorcycle market has changed significantly over the past few decades — we've come a long way since the first Harley-Davidson model sold for almost $200 in the early 1900s. Over 8 million Americans own them, and motorcycles are an integral part of culture. People use them daily for commuting, long-distance touring, or simply recreational joy as a different way to get from point A to point B without their car. However, in 2024 the average price of a new motorcycle sat at around $11,000, a figure that will probably seem quite daunting to riders on a budget.

For many who want to start riding, getting a top-tier motorcycle from brands like Harley-Davidson, Ducati, or BMW could still feel a bit out of reach, as their price tags can be around $10,000 or more. Despite that, even amid rising costs of materials and technology — there are still exceptional motorcycles available for under $10,000, and even those for less than $6,000 that offer performance and reliability without compromising on style or capability.

We've found 10 budget-friendly motorcycles that stand out in the sub-$6,000 category, garnering praise from riders and expert reviewers alike for their design, functionality, and value. Whether you're a beginner looking for your first ride or a seasoned motorcyclist in search of the cheapest bike you can get, chances are there's something on this list for you.

The KTM Duke 390 is arguably the boldest, most modern-looking motorcycle in the sub-$6,000 range. Its striking design and impressive performance have led to its popularity skyrocketing among urban riders. With a lightweight frame and agile handling that makes it a natural choice for riders who have to navigate tight city streets and crowded environments, this is probably the most beloved bike from the KTM Motorcycles brand to date.

A standout feature of the Duke 390 is its thin-film transistor (TFT) display that's bonded between the handlebars. It offers riders clear and detailed information at a glance and a menu that can be scrolled through to adjust vehicle functions on a dime. Additionally, the connectivity options provide Bluetooth pairing to play music and take calls, along with having turn-by-turn directions. Riders will even find an LED lighting system, giving the bike a futuristic vibe. Under the hood, the Duke 390 is powered by a 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine capable of reaching a top speed of around 106 mph. That's pretty powerful, and with a fuel efficiency of 70 mph, it's a nice balance of performance and economy.

Motorcycle reviewers have praised the Duke 390 for its advanced technology and impeccable handling on the city streets, though a minor downside noted by casual riders was the motorcycle's seat height and space. It's on the higher end in the under-$6,000 range with a listing of $5,899. Still, its cutting-edge features and design could make it a solid investment.

For adventure enthusiasts on a budget, the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 could be a dream come true. It's incredibly versatile and designed to excel both on-road and off-road, making it an excellent choice for riders who are looking to head on some trails from time to time. Some of the greatest benefits of the Versys-X 300 are its low seating position, lightweight chassis, and suspension designed specifically to ensure comfort over long distances. The reduced weight of the motorcycle also enhances its maneuverability, and it has higher ground clearance than other bikes, so it can handle different terrain types. Basically, it's a smooth ride, no matter what.

The Versys-X 300 is also powered by a 296cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine and offers about 70 mpg, a fairly satisfactory fuel efficiency for long-distance traveling. Many current owners have praised the Versys-X 300 for its versatility and gas mileage, but some still want a bit more power should they intend to use the motorcycle for off-road as well as on-road performance. While there can always be improvements, the Versys-X 300 still offers an even blend of practicality and adventure-readiness for $5,899. It could fit better for riders looking in the same price range as the KTM Duke 390, but who have different personal preferences for performance and style.

The Yamaha YZF-R3 stands out as one of the most adaptable motorcycles under $6,000. It offers comfort, reliability, and performance in a very sporty package, comparable to the Ninja line from Kawasaki. It certainly suits those who want a bike that transitions effortlessly from street use to track-ready performance, offering a dynamic riding experience regardless of the setting.

The YZF-R3 boasts a 321cc parallel-twin, four-stroke liquid-cooled engine that delivers a top speed of approximately 115 mph. This makes it one of the fastest on the market for under $6,000, and it can make you feel like you're out on the race track with the professionals. The impressive performance is also complemented by ABS disc brakes, which enhance safety and can give riders confidence during any swift maneuvers they need to make at higher speeds. The bike's aerodynamic design also ensures it cuts through wind easily, and its ergonomic seating offers supreme comfort for long rides.

Professionals who have reviewed the YSF-R3 have applauded its versatility and build quality, although its engine is still a little smaller than some more premium motorcycles. While this might cause some riders with more money to spend to reach elsewhere, the $5,499 price point is still very attractive. Overall, it's exceptional value for a dependable and high-performing bike.

The Honda CRF300L is the epitome of dual-sport versatility, excelling in both urban and off-road settings. Riders have consistently praised its reliability, fuel efficiency, and adaptability. While it's not one of the most stylish Honda motorcycles, it really is a go-to choice for those who want a bike that can do it all.

Part of the reason it can do it all is because it's equipped with a 286cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The engine is also a double-overhead-cam, making it low-maintenance and free-revving, according to Honda. All aspects of the engine help the CRF300L deliver a top speed of 80 mph and maintain a fuel efficiency of 70 mpg. Not to mention, its long-travel suspension and higher ground clearance could make it ideal for rugged trails if needed, while its lightweight frame ensures easy handling in city traffic. There's also a Pro-Link rear suspension that adds traction and handling, and the wheels on the CRF300L are also 21 inches in the front and 18 inches in the rear for easy adjusting between off-road and on-road riding.

Some riders have also highlighted the CRF300L's user-friendly design and ability to handle diverse conditions in reviews, though a few still critiqued its limited top speed and cited it as a potential drawback for consistent highway use. The CRF300L is still a great combination of performance, durability, and versatility for the price point of $5,449. 

The Yamaha XT250 is a standout option for riders who want off-road adventures. Comparable to the Honda CRF300L, it's made to handle rugged terrains and built with lightweight materials and practical features for a controlled ride. The bike also comes with a long-travel suspension and significantly higher ground clearance than other street bikes for rocky paths, uneven dirt trails, and even rough urban streets that need some repaving. It's dual-sport to the max, especially in the sub-$6,000 category.

Given its sport setup, the engine isn't particularly a powerhouse, with a 249cc single-cylinder air-cooled build. Its top speed caps out at 55 mph — hardly highway ready — but the XT250 makes up for it in fuel efficiency with about 76 mpg. This is nice for longer trips in remote areas where a gas station might not be easy to reach. The chassis is a manageable size, and its ergonomic seating design will be comfortable for riders of all skill levels, whether you're a beginner who is starting to explore off-roading or a seasoned trail rider and adventurer.

Experts who've reviewed the XT250 have emphasized its ideal off-road performance and reliability, along with the light frame for handling. They've also noted its durability in difficult riding conditions. The only downside mentioned has been its fairly low top speed, as it significantly reduces highway riding. Still, a price of $5,299 is attractive, offering some sweet value for riders looking for countryside cruises or dirt road explorations.

For those craving a motorcycle that balances power with agility, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a standout choice, even though Kawasaki seems to have discontinued it. This bike has earned praise for years, with an ergonomic design that ensures comfort during long rides and sporty, aerodynamic aesthetics.

Those who want a small taste of premium riding will be happy to find the Ninja 400 is equipped with a 399cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine, the most powerful on this list. It also has a six-speed transmission, helping propel the Ninja 400 to a thrilling top speed of 116 mph. Additionally, riders have loved its advanced features, including the ABS disc brakes, which add a dose of safety to help with all that power — part of what makes this bike good for beginners. 

Other excellent features to be aware of include the twin LED headlights and Uni-Trak rear suspension.

The Ninja 400's balance of power and agility has been highlighted by professional reviewers, with fuel efficiency being one of their only gripes. Its price point can't be beaten either — at $5,299 from most dealers, it proves you don't need to break the bank to get quality performance. The 55 mpg rating is a little low compared to other bikes on this list, but all its other positives may make that a worthwhile trade-off to you. This is without a doubt a real powerhouse compared to most sub-$6,000 bikes.

The Honda CB300R exemplifies minimalism and functionality with a gorgeous design and an approach to motorcycling that doesn't skimp on quality or performance. It is lightweight, with an upright seating position ensuring comfort during city commutes or leisurely weekend rides without sacrificing the sporty and modern look. It's a good pick for beginners and seasoned motorcyclists who want to keep things simple.

Beneath its sleek exterior is a 286cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine capable of reaching a top speed of 90 mph. The CB300R is a very modest powerhouse, delivering a remarkable fuel efficiency of 71 mpg, which ensures fewer stops at the pump and more time on the road.

This bike has been lauded by professional reviewers for its smooth engine and responsive handling, although some casual riders have noted that it might leave those who are power-hungry wanting more on the highway — possibly the Kawasaki Ninja 400. Still, it's priced at just $5,049, punching above its weight class and offering riders an ideal combination of a style similar to the KTM Duke 390 while maintaining efficiency and versatility. Aside from lacking off-road capabilities, this bike has virtually no downsides and is still thousands less than premium options.

At just $4,999, the lightweight and agile Yamaha MT-03 delivers a premium experience at a great price. It has an upright seating position and design that's strikingly similar to the Honda CB300R, and it comes in a variety of color combinations and customizable options. It promises serious comfort and maneuverability, making it a compelling choice for those who reside in big cities and any first-time riders. 

A top highlight of the MT-03 is its technology. The 2025 model offers Yamaha Motorcycle Connect (Y-Connect) to riders' smartphones so they can take calls and emails or answer messages hands-free with ease. It can also notify them of any technical problems with the bike and record data like fuel consumption, acceleration, and more. It also has an LCD screen with a USB port for the rider's phone to connect. Underneath the exterior lies a 321cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine capable of reaching a top speed of 108 mph. With a fuel efficiency of 56 mpg, the MT-03 strikes a fine balance between performance and practicality.

Experts often highlight the MT-03's great acceleration and stability at higher speeds, though some suggest it lacks the power needed for extended highway rides. Its $4,999 price tag solidifies its reputation as one of the best budget motorcycles available today.

The Honda Rebel 300 has a beginner-friendly design and comes in a variety of colors, including a sleek blacked-out finish. A top pick among new riders and seasoned motorcyclists alike, it features a 286cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with fuel injection that achieves a top speed of 85 mph. That's faster than some of the dual-sport options on this list. Not to mention, it has 70 mpg fuel efficiency, which ensures riders will be able enjoy extended journeys without frequent stops. 

Honda also designed the Rebel 300 as a "cruiser" motorcycle, having a lower seat height to further enhance its ease of use and comfortably fit riders of all sizes. Additionally, interested riders will find that the Rebel 300 has a six-speed manual transmission and dual-shock rear suspension. These features also contribute to its smooth and reliable riding experience. 

Professional reviewers have applauded the Rebel 300's visually appealing design and suspension, but have also noted that its power output might feel a bit underwhelming for more experienced riders. Other bikes on this list, like the Kawasaki Ninja 400, would offer more raw power for a higher price and at the sacrifice of the Rebel 300's design. While it's up to the rider's personal preferences, the Rebel 300 is a fantastic introduction to motorcycling at $4,849.

While it was discontinued in 2019, riders can still find the Suzuki TU250X, and they should, as it's one of the most reliable motorcycles under $6,000. It combines vintage design elements with modern practicality, making it a favorite among riders. The TU250X is particularly well-suited for urban commutes, thanks to its nimble handling and lighter frame, weighing in at 330 pounds.

The TU250X features a 249cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that can reach a top speed of about 84 mph. Sure, it's not one of the most powerful Suzuki motorcycles ever made, but its fuel economy is impressive at 75 mpg, and the addition of fuel injection ensures reliable starts and smooth performance, even in colder conditions. Riders will immediately notice its standard seat position as well, which makes for comfortable traveling. Additionally, while it may not have ABS disc brakes like the more advanced bikes on this list, it still does have a hydraulic disc brake with a dual-piston caliper on the front wheel.

Professional reviewers commend the TU250X for its simplicity and efficiency but also agree that its limited power might not suit riders interested in experiencing more power and exhilaration. Still, it's the most affordable option on our list as you can find prices for used 2015 models as low as $2,900. It is very stylish and dependable for those living in the city.

The motorcycles featured on this list were chosen because they all managed to balance performance, design, and reliability under a $6,000 maximum price. To find them, we focused on professional reviews, rider feedback, and first-hand technical analysis. Several specialized enthusiast blogs and respected platforms like Motorcyclist Magazine, Curbside Classic, and Cycle World offered detailed technical assessments and long-term insights from experts or seasoned riders, which helped us gauge the overall value of the 10 bikes on this list. Additionally, everyday user reviews posted on online community platforms like Reddit were helpful to get a sense of more real-world and day-to-day experiences from riders who already had them for some time. The manufacturers of the motorcycles and their reputations for customer satisfaction and quality were also considered.

Combining all of these factors ensures a well-rounded selection of motorcycles that meet the needs of a diverse group of riders. Specifications and technology were considered right alongside the joy or comfort cited by those who took the bikes on daily commutes or frequent road trips . After those considerations, these were the clear standouts.