The time for going about cruising on a small, lightweight retro couldn’t be better. There’s been one swell release after another of late. With new offerings from Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson coming in to compete against old timers by Yamaha and Royal Enfield, the options are aplenty in this segment and even more are being talked about.

There’s something wonderful about these entry-level machines that provide a great platform to learn and enjoy the open road. Perhaps it is the combination of style, affordability, and ease of riding - whether you're a beginner or are looking for a more laid-back riding experience, these are the best 10 entry level cruisers and retro bikes you should consider.

Updated September 2023: Retro bikes are all the rage right now, and you don't need to break the bank to get one. To keep our readers up to speed on all the latest releases, this article will be updated periodically.

Related: 10 Reasons Why You Should Buy A Honda Rebel 500

15 Royal Enfield Classic 350

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is in all ways as timeless as you can get with quintessential British design ideology. It’s the smaller of the offerings, with a 350cc single-cylinder mill that does everything an old-school motorcycle is expected to do. No, it won’t go crazy fast, and yes you could probably get something with better suspension and electronics, but you probably will not be looking in RE’s direction if those were your expectations. Kick back and let the long-stroke thump comfort you with its purr - that’s what the Classic 350 is all about.

Pros

1. Timeless and iconic design.
2. Simple at heart, meaning easy maintenance.
3. Availability of a wide range of aftermarket customization options.

Cons

1. Lacks necessary power.
2. Vibrations at higher speeds affect long-distance comfort.
3. Limited technology and modern features.

14 Honda Monkey

The Monkey is a heck of a vintage motorcycle, and it's so likable that it deserves to find its place in everyone's garage. This 125cc minimoto is based on the famed Grom platform, and it comes with a compact single-cylinder motor and a manual gearbox that manages to give it a lively riding experience.

No, it is not a full-sized cruiser likely many on this list, that's exactly why its tiny ergonomics are ideal for chirping around town, thanks to its nimble chassis. The 2024 model now comes with ABS at the front, isn't that just great?

Pros

1. Its compact size.
2. Very affordable.
3. Fuel economy is unparalleled.

Cons

1. Limited power compared to others on this list.
2. Not the most comfortable for tall riders.
3. Not suitable for 2 people.

13 Yamaha V-star 250

This is a compact classic cruiser that defies its size by delivering big on style and performance. The V-star is powered by a 249cc V-twin engine, the only V-twin you will find in this segment! Owing to its slim profile, it strikes a perfect balance between power and maneuverability. It features a classic cruiser design with chrome accents, spoke wheels, and a comfortable seating position. The lightweight chassis and low seat height make it easy to handle for riders of all levels of experience.

Pros

1. The only V-twin in this segment.
2. Lightweight and easy to handle.
3. Fuel-efficient engine ideal for commuting.

Cons

1. Limited power for highway cruising.
2. Smaller seat size may not be comfortable for tall riders.
3. Limited storage options for longer rides.

12 Honda Rebel 300

The Honda Rebel 300 is an entry-level cruiser from the Japanese giants that boasts retro aesthetic with modern features. Its 286cc single-cylinder mill offering 25 horsepower and 17 pound-feet of peak torque.

It boasts minimalist styling, including clean lines, a blacked-out frame, and a distinctive fuel tank. Then there are plenty of customizable options, such as different seat heights and accessory choices, that allow riders to personalize their bike to match their unique personality and taste. Overall, a great little entry cruiser from Honda!

Pros

1. Compact and lightweight design.
2. Firm suspension - great for city rides.
3. Versatile customization options available.

Cons

1. Limited color options.
2. Limited wind protection for highway cruising.
3. Not the most comfortable seat.

Related: Honda Rebel 300 / 500 - Performance, Price, and Photos

11 Royal Enfield Scram 411

Royal Enfield's first go at a scrambler came in the form of a subdued version of the Himalayan 411. The Scram's bare-bones retro aesthetic makes it a fitting entry for this list.

It's pretty apparent you are gazing at the Himalayan once you swap the 19-inch front wheel with a 21-inch. Identical handling, gearing, and identical power ratings of 24.3 horsepower and 23.6 pound-feet of torque. But is that a drawback? Not really.

Pros

1. That old-school retro character.
2. Great ergonomics.
3. Affordable.

Cons

1. A bit too heavy for a 400.
2. Isn't the fastest.
3. Doesn't appeal to everyone.

10 Jonway V400

The Indian Scout doppelganger was recently released in Europe to much hype. Partly because it is a like-for-like subdued version of the widely popular Indian. But if you were to look further than the looks, the rest of the Chinese motorcycle is rather well put together.

It houses a 398cc V-twin engine, a teardrop fuel tank, dual exhaust pipes, comfortable seating position and offers user-friendly handling. Considering how well Chinese offerings are priced, the Jonway V400 might just turn out to be the most value for money bike in this segment.

Pros

1. Belt drive.
2. Good color options on offer.
3. Affordable pricing.

Cons

1. Unsure if it will make it to the US.
2. Limited after-sales support.
3. 3May carry the ‘cheap doppelganger’ tag.

9 Benelli Imperiale 400

Did someone order Italian? The Imperiale 400 is all about vintage Italian design combined with state-of-the-art engineering. The Imperiale is a classic that gets power from a 374cc single-cylinder engine that is able to produce 21 horsepower and 22 pound-feet of torque. It’s a great little plant providing a balanced blend of power and fuel efficiency. The Imperiale 400's retro styling, including a sculpted fuel tank and spoke wheels, will definitely get you attention wherever it goes. It houses great ergonomics for a bike this small and does indeed ooze with timeless charm - something not many Chinese-manufactured bikes come with.

Pros

1. Classic styling inspired by vintage motorcycles.
2. Smooth and refined engine performance.
3. Comfortable seating position.

Cons

1. Limited color options compared to other models.
2. Relatively smaller dealer network.
3. Slightly higher weight.

8 AJS Cadwell Clubman

If the rest of the world is turning retro, why shouldn't the Chinese follow suit? AJS is most certainly one of the finest brands from the British motorcycle sector, and it shows in the final product of this particular motorcycle. The Cadwell Clubman exhibits no structural similarity to the bikes of yesteryear, but it is a very good café racer, that too in that beautiful black and gold paint scheme. Its engine is a 125cc single cylinder with roughly 10 horsepower, and while the quality is more China than British thanks to its Chinese production, it's nonetheless a stunning entry for those who are new into motorcycling.

Pros

1. Oozes of 60s retro charm.
2. It weighs a total of 249 lbs.
3. A great beginner bike.

Cons

1. Build quality isn't the best.
2. Not fast.
3. Its suspension is on the firmer side.

7 CF Moto 450 CL-C

CFMoto seems to be on a roll lately. They seem to keep the momentum going with the upcoming 450 CL-C. There’s no denying the lightweight cruiser has an irrevocable American charm.

It is one of the very few motorcycles on this list that has a belt drive. Something that might tickle your fancy if you like your motorcycles to require as little maintenance as possible. It would come with a 450cc mill borrowed from the 400NK. Power figures aren’t confirmed yet - but expect it to deliver on par if not better performance than others on this list.

Pros

1. Retro-styled American cruiser design.
2. Affordable price point.
3. Comfortable seating position for long rides.

Cons

1. Limited availability of authorized service centers.
2. Less established brand presence compared to others in the market.
3. Not sure if it will make it to the US.

6 Harley-Davidson X 500

For those longing for the iconic Harley-Davidson experience, the X 500 offers an entry-level opportunity from the legendary American brand. Powered by a 500cc mill, the X 500 delivers a robust performance while retaining the signature Harley-Davidson styling cues. Talk about the low-slung profile, iconic peanut tank, and blacked-out finishes, the X 500 exudes the classic Harley-Davidson vibe in every sense of the word. The fact that it will be manufactured in China mike make it all the more accessible for budget riders.

Pros

1. Iconic Harley-Davidson styling and heritage.
2. Increased power and performance for an entry-level cruiser.
3. Extensive aftermarket customization options available.

Cons

1. Might be the most expensive of all these bikes.
2. Its Heavy weight may require more effort during maneuvering.
3. More Chinese characteristics than American.

Related: 2023 Harley-Davidson X 500 vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: Which Is Better?

5 Benelli Leoncino Trail

The Benelli Leoncino Trail excels at fusing retro design language with modern-day cutting-edge features. It gets a parallel-twin motor that produces 47 horsepower and 33.2 pound-feet of peak torque that make for a pleasant ride. Like the majority of scramblers, it can handle difficult terrain with ease thanks to its off-road-biased suspension, spoke wheels, dual-purpose tires, and a total of 371 pounds of curb weight. We have to admit that it's a rather pleasant motorcycle by the QJ Motor-owned brand, however, it might be true that it is widely underrated due to the abundance of rival alternatives on the market.

Pros

1. The beautiful design.
2. It is an affordable bike.
3. Commendable mid-range power.

Cons

1. Limited dealer network.
2. High ownership costs.
3. Plenty of more able scramblers in the market.

4 Royal Enfield Meteor 350

The Meteor is a rather modern cruiser from Royal Enfield that blends classic design with contemporary features. It features the same J series 350cc mill as the classic 350, but everything else about the Meteor is different - the seating ergonomics, the pegs, the looks. It’s a proper, proper mini-cruiser.

It is probably one of the smoother Enfields out there. Vibrations are kept to a minimum and that change is welcome. Other than that, you get tripper navigation as standard and that’s about it. Royal Enfield really does take the bare-bones path. If you are a taller ride, you may feel a little cramped and 20.2 horsepower and 19.9 pound-feet of torque can definitely be trumped by others on this list though.

Pros

1. A true-blue cruiser.
2. Smooth and refined performance.
3. Comfortable riding position for extended journeys.

Cons

1. Taller riders will feel cramped.
2. Limited color choices available.
3. Handling may feel slightly heavier for beginner riders.

3 Kawasaki Eliminator

The Eliminator is one of the newest motorcycles by Kawasaki - one that has made a return after a long absence. This time, it comes with a smaller, 451cc parallel twin - a potent engine that too. It is capable of a decent 45 horsepower and 26 pound-feet of torque - Figures that should be sufficient to take you on a quick jaunt around town.

Eliminator’s low center of gravity is one to rival. It gives the bike a great planted feel on the road, something you would appreciate considering the bike isn’t that heavy, to begin with. Do keep in mind that if you want ABS, the base trim wouldn’t come with it - For that, you’ll have to get yourself the ‘SE’ trim. No ABS in 2023? Could be a bummer for many.

Pros

1. Smooth and responsive power delivery.
2. Lightweight and nimble.
3. Sporty bodywork and aggressive styling.

Cons

1. May not satisfy power-hungry riders.
2. Relatively smaller fuel tank capacity - 3.2 gallons.
3. No ABS in base trim.

2 Honda Rebel 500

Say hello to the big brother of the smaller Rebel 300. The 500 is the middle child of the Rebel series from Honda. Sporting a 471cc parallel-twin engine, it offers a spirited performance while retaining the Rebel series' signature style. A low-slung profile, wide handlebars, and a relaxed riding position are all on offer. We’re fans of its muscular presence, something that is a rarity in this segment. Combine that with Honda's renowned reliability, and you have a compelling motorcycle on your hands.

Pros

1. Honda’s reliability.
2. Increased power and performance compared to the Rebel 300.
3. Comfortable seating position for longer rides.

Cons

1. Relatively higher price compared to other entry-level options.
2. Heavier weight may affect beginner riders.
3. Limited storage options.

1 Kawasaki Z650RS

Perhaps we are pushing the envelope too far with this one, but look beyond the '650' moniker, and you'll see why this Kawa has made it to this list. Firstly, the Kawasaki Z650 was already a wonderful bike, but there is no doubt that it was known for being overly conventional; the Z650RS is what puts things right.

The 649cc parallel-twin mill seems fitting in the Z650RS, owing to its uncomplicated, carefree personality and power delivery. What we like is that the Z650RS delivers the identical amount of joy as the Z900RS in an easier, more accessible package: it's well-built, fun to ride, and well-equipped - all credentials to be a great entry-level retro for you.

Pros

1. A great, potent parallel-twin engine.
2. Kawasaki's robustness.
3. Good ergonomics.

Cons

1. Relatively expensive compared to other entry-level options.
2. Beginner riders may feel imposed by its power initially.
3. Braking isn't exactly best-in-class.