Ten Great Motorcycles Under Ten Grand for 2023

[Hugh Janus]

The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 comes standard with a centerstand and USB port. (Royal Enfield/Josh Shipps/)

Affordable, inexpensive, reasonable… However you want to spin it, price-consciousness has always been a thing in the motorcycle world. Ask almost any motorcyclist and they’ll tell you a prime consideration in deciding what their next ride will be is MSRP. But a cheap bike isn’t always the best one either, once you factor in things like power, quality, or in short, bang for the buck.

With that in mind we decided to cover a broad spectrum of the motorcycling universe for this list, while still staying under the $10,000 mark. To further narrow the parameters, we tried to avoid super-small displacement bikes (minis), Chinese knockoffs and narrow-focus entry-level examples. But a couple of cheapies still squeaked through because, well…they are good values for the money.

That’s also not to say you should ignore time-tested stalwarts like Suzuki’s DR series, Kawasaki’s Versys or KLR, most of Royal Enfield’s lineup, or Yamaha’s XT and V-Star 250 models. But we endeavored to focus on newer models as well as bikes we’ve ridden more recently. All the bikes here are currently available in the US, with dealer networks that support warranties and repairs.

Related: Ten Great Motorcycles Under $9,000

Classic good looks at a low price: Royal Enfield’s nimble new Hunter 350 rings in at under $4K. (Royal Enfield/)

2023 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 | $3,999

Royal Enfield is renowned for its vast stable of über-affordable bikes, offering everything from standards to scramblers to adventurers, but the Hunter 350 gets our vote this year. For one, it’s the newest bike from RE to hit the US, and two, for under $4K you get an almost unbeatable feature set: an approachable roadster with attractive semi-retro styling, quick handling, a neutral riding position, and a versatile, tried-and-true 350cc engine. The Hunter employs the SOHC two-valve air-cooled powerplant originally used in the Classic 350 and Meteor 350, but thanks to a 400-pound claimed curb weight (30 pounds less than the Classic), this 350 feels more spritely at low to moderate speeds.

Keep in mind we’re still talking about just 20.2 hp at 6,100 rpm and 19.9 lb.-ft. torque peak, so you’re not gonna win many drag races, but that’s not the intent. With neutral ergos, upright riding position and a relatively low seat height of 31.1 inches, the Hunter 350 should fit a wide range of riders, and if you’re not necessarily pining for the highest level of performance in any one category but yearning for a solid bike with gobs of character, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is worth a look.

With features comparable to some of its Japanese competitors, CFMoto’s 300NK has more than just a low price tag going for it. (CFMoto/)

2023 CFMoto 300NK | $4,199

We can hear the groans already. Yes, it’s a Chinese company, but before you go slagging CFMoto’s wares as subpar, consider the brand’s solid footprint in the States, its ties with KTM, and its fairly well-established dealer network; CFMoto has been selling CForce ATVs and ZForce side-by-sides in the US for years.

An entry-level naked bike, the 300NK is meant as a direct competitor to Japan’s small-displacement models. Admittedly, it’s an apples-to-oranges proposition, but the 300NK does bring some comparable specs at a lower cost, with features like an upside-down fork, Bosch EFI, and a slipper clutch, along with standard ABS. Power comes from a 292cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC engine producing a claimed 29 hp at 8,750 rpm and 18.7 lb.-ft. of torque at 7,250 rpm, which stacks up to competitors like the Suzuki GSX250R (24 hp) and Honda CB300R (31 hp). An upright riding position and a seat height of 31.3 inches should appeal to newbies, as should the 300NK’s $4,199 price tag, which undercuts the Japanese bikes by close to $1K. Even if it’s not yet at the same level as those more established brands, CFMoto’s initial attempts are very nearly on par, as we noted in our first ride last year. And they will only get better.

The Z400 isn’t the cheapest light-middleweight naked out there, but it offers engaging performance for new riders as well as more experienced pilots. (Kawasaki/)

2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS | $5,399

It’s hard to find fault with Kawasaki’s overachieving Z400 light-middleweight. For under $5,500, you get stripped-down streetfighter styling with the same, fun-loving 399cc engine found in its Ninja 400 stablemate, agile handling, and sharp aesthetics, all of which are guaranteed to serve up plenty of cheap thrills.

The liquid-cooled 399cc parallel-twin engine delivers a linear powerband and a broad, flat torque curve that won’t spook beginners, but it can be ridden in anger when you absolutely need to. On the Cycle World dyno, we clocked 44.1 hp at 9,830 rpm and 25.1 lb.-ft. of torque at 8,250 rpm, better than Yamaha’s MT-03 (37.1hp on our dyno) and similar to Husky’s Vitpilen 401 (41.41 hp). The assist-and-slipper clutch aids in that extra-smooth power delivery, and while the Z400′s natural environment is the urban jungle, it wouldn’t feel too out of place on backroads or even a racetrack, though the ergonomics lean more to the upright side of the riding position equation. There’s a reason why the Z400 clinched Cycle World’s Best Lightweight Streetbike award back in 2020, and it hasn’t lost a step yet with its flickability and a fantastic engine that most riders won’t easily outgrow.

Honda’s bestselling dual sport is a friendly, approachable ride that still manages to be highly competent on and off road. (Honda/)

2023 Honda CRF300L | $5,399

Honda’s bestselling dual sport motorcycle has earned the title for a variety of reasons, but mostly because it’s so accessible. Except good luck finding one; based on anecdotal evidence (i.e., comments from y’all in these posts) there’s simply not a lot of available inventory out there.

That’s due to the fact that the CRF300L packs big potential in a somewhat small package, even if it is focused more on fun factor than trying to keep up with the higher-performance, berm-busting competition. Whether you’re just starting out on the dirt, looking for a commuter that can also serve up weekend hijinks on the trails, or you just don’t want to make a five-figure investment, the CRF300L makes damn good sense. As dual sports go, not many bikes out there are as friendly, with tractable and predictable power delivery, plush suspension, and confidence-inspiring handling. While the Honda CRF300L’s 286cc single cranked out just 22.7 hp at 8,500 and 16.7 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,300 rpm on the Cycle World dyno, we still figure it may be one of the most capable motorcycles around. Despite those dyno numbers, this do-it-all dual sport will get you almost anywhere you want to go without fail, whether it’s on pavement or off-road.

The KTM 390 Duke: Lightweight, flickable, and ready to take on the twisties. (KTM/)

2023 KTM 390 Duke | $5,899

The 390 Duke may sport a sub-400cc displacement and a single-cylinder engine, but that’s partly what makes it a wolf in sheep’s clothing. In fact, Cycle World editors have called out the 390 for hitting a sweet spot of sorts: It’s “both a fantastic starter machine and a fun bike for an accomplished rider.”

You can thank the ultracompact liquid-cooled 373cc single and a lightweight steel trellis frame, along with a surfeit of upper-shelf components and standard equipment, like a WP upside-down fork, ride-by-wire, a slipper clutch, and standard ABS…and even a Supermoto mode. The 390 Duke’s claimed 329-pound weight, 53.4-inch wheelbase, and a claimed 44 hp means plenty of maneuverability and power for beginners, but also more than enough capability to pry huge grins out of any rider, no matter what their skill level is—which explains why this wee Duke has been a Ten Best winner two times in a row.

In short, the KTM 390 Duke should not be underestimated, with its excellent power-to-weight numbers and very impressive ride quality along with a reasonable smattering of the latest tech. If you’re more adventurous, take a look at its dirtworthy relative, the highly competent 390 Adventure. MSRP is $7,399.

Suzuki’s stalwart SV650 has been a proven performer and consistent entry on “bang for the buck” lists for decades. (Suzuki/)

2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS | $7,849

Suzuki’s SV650 has been making “best bang for the buck” lists for years, and there’s no reason it shouldn’t again in 2023. With a list price of $7,849 for the ABS model, the bike continues to deliver a tasty combination of amiable manners, a comfortable riding position, better-than-you’d-think performance, and at the end of the day, pure riding pleasure. The stalwart 645cc DOHC V-twin engine’s powerband is wide and accessible enough for newbs while still shoveling out enough oomph to sate more experienced types. It’s all packaged in a steel tube trellis chassis that’s also responsive yet neutral-handling, giving pilots a stable ride in most conditions. Also unusual for the class is a low 30.9-inch seat height, which can help nervous novices plant their boots at a stop. What’s more, you won’t find any electronic rider aids to distract you from the ride; even the throttle is cable-operated.

We’re not sure if this is a plus, but for those on a really tight budget, Suzuki also offers the SV650 in a non-ABS version. Its $7,399 price tag means it will be that much easier to snag one of Suzuki’s bestselling models, and one that you likely won’t outgrow for some time.

Yamaha’s MT-07 has it all—sharp handling, torquey engine, and low price. Plus it’s a blast to ride. (Yamaha/)

2023 Yamaha MT-07 | $8,199

Here’s another bike that has consistently made “best of” rundowns of late, and even with a few changes, it will easily make this one. Yamaha’s highly recommended MT-07 naked bike has come to define the modern UJM, and even though its 689cc parallel twin was updated in 2021 to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, the CP2 engine remains engaging for riders of every skill level, with plenty of low- and midrange grunt on tap.

And don’t call it a budget bike; the 689cc parallel twin (recording 67 hp at 8,700 rpm on the CW dyno) will still be more than happy to go into hooligan mode in the right hands. That doesn’t mean less experienced riders can’t be happy either, thanks to a linear powerband and predictable throttle response. Add in the nimble handling, torquey power delivery, accessible ergonomics, and a reasonable price for the whole package and it’s easy to see why the MT-07 holds broad appeal for novices and experienced pilots alike.

The fact that the MT doesn’t rock the latest rider tech doesn’t seem to matter; the only electronic aid you’ll find here is non-switchable ABS, which is a testament to its sheer mechanical goodness. That could be the reason the MT-07 is Yamaha’s highest-selling motorcycle, with sales figures that back up its reputation.

Although its MSRP is under $9K, the Triumph Trident 660 still manages to offer excellent performance and versatility. (Triumph/)

2023 Triumph Trident 660 | $8,595

Spirited but well-mannered, ready to rip but easy to use: That’s how you could describe Triumph’s new Trident 660 roadster. Upon its debut last year, we called it “most approachable, both in price, ergonomics, and engine character” which should give you some idea of its better qualities.

The Trident’s all-new liquid-cooled DOHC 659cc inline-triple is notable for a user-friendly power delivery so newbies need not fret, but the bike doesn’t necessarily skimp on modern tech either, including ride-by-wire technology, traction control, ABS, and even a TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity. The bike is extremely approachable for less experienced riders, with a torque curve that’s broad and flat, making it easy to dial on the acceleration from almost anywhere. That said, cracking open the Trident’s throttle is sure to be on the list for more experienced riders, thanks to its addictively engaging triple-trumpet exhaust howl. As for handling, we remarked that the Trident is sure to inspire confidence, with “a light flickable feel” and an unintimidating, stable quality at low speeds.

Add up Triumph’s careful attention to build quality, a solid suspension, a modern electronics package, and the under $9K MSRP, and the result is a compelling choice for newer riders or even those looking for another bike in their garage.

The Moto Guzzi V7 remains a classic retro standard that balances performance, style, and rideability with some quirkiness. (Moto Guzzi/)

2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone | $9,190

Looking for a fun to ride European middleweight with a heritage dating back 100 years? Moto Guzzi is your only choice, with the added bonus of several models in its V7 series ringing in at under $10,000. Guzzi gave its long-running V7 line a well-deserved update in 2021 and the new 853cc Euro 5–compliant engine has made a notable difference in a bike we already liked for its light handling and minimalist styling.

The engine is noteworthy not just for its increased volume but also for its new oversize exhaust manifold layout, and the improvements matter; we’re looking at a claimed 65 hp at 6,800 rpm (up from the previous 52 hp) and Guzzi says the latest V7s accelerate faster too. Updates in the gearbox, suspension, and frame also make this a more refined machine than previous generations, with ABS and traction control included as standard features. That said, the V7 is still pretty old-school in terms of rider aids; there are none, other than the aforementioned ABS and TC, but then that’s part of the charm. The V7 is still an attractive, retro-ish standard, and its unique traverse twin layout, shaft drive and classic good looks help distinguish the Goose in a sea of look-alikes.

Brisk power coupled with up-to-date tech and unique styling make the Honda Rebel 1100 stand out in a sea of wheezy V-twins. (Honda/)

2023 Honda Rebel 1100 | $9,499

Sure, you can get a perfectly competent midsize V-twin cruiser for around $8K, but you’d be sacrificing the added power, modern features, and sheer practicality of the Rebel 1100. You won’t get a V-twin on the Honda either; the Rebel 1100 uses the tried-and-true 1,083cc parallel-twin Unicam engine from the previous Africa Twin adventure bike, retuned with a heavier flywheel for more of a cruiser lope. But you get four ride modes, LED lighting, ABS, and traction control, and there’s even an optional dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that operates the six gears automatically without a clutch lever. What’s more, the bike weighs less than 500 pounds, costs less than $10,000, and can hit 80 mph in third gear.

Like most Rebels, the 1100 is also super-accessible, with a low 27.5-inch seat height and well-balanced, neutral handling characteristics for confidence at low speeds.

The Rebel 1100 is more expensive than the majority of its competition, but it’s also better equipped and more powerful than most other cruisers in the class, with throttle-by-wire, a USB-C outlet under the seat, and traction and cruise control in addition to the four ride modes. The Rebel’s fresh, more modern style also means you can leave the conchos and fringe at home.

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