The Cheapest Motorcycles You Can Buy in 2026: Affordable Two-Wheel Thrills

In an era where everything seems to be getting more expensive, finding an affordable motorcycle in 2026 might feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Back in 2005, a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R would set you back $10,999. Fast forward to today, and that same model now commands $17,999 before destination fees. The story is similar across the industry, with even legendary models like the Yamaha YZF-R1 seeing similar price hikes. But here’s the good news: despite the general trend of rising prices, there are still some genuinely affordable options out there for riders on a budget.

Whether you’re a new rider looking for your first bike, someone seeking a cheap commuter, or just want to experience the thrill of two wheels without breaking the bank, these 12 motorcycles represent some of the best value in 2026. Keep in mind that with lower prices come certain compromises – typically smaller engines, fewer features, and sometimes questions about long-term reliability. However, for the right rider, these bikes offer an accessible entry point to motorcycling.

12. CFMOTO 300SS – $4,599

The CFMOTO 300SS represents one of the best sport bike values in 2026. This Chinese manufacturer has been making waves in the motorcycle industry with surprisingly well-built machines at competitive prices. The 300SS features a 298cc single-cylinder engine producing 29.5 horsepower, paired with a six-speed transmission and slipper clutch. The styling is aggressive and modern, looking every bit as good as bikes costing thousands more. However, potential buyers should be aware of concerns about parts availability and dealer networks, which aren’t as extensive as those of established Japanese manufacturers.

11. CFMOTO 300NK – $4,199

For $400 less than its sportier sibling, the 300NK offers the same mechanical package in a naked bike configuration. The 298cc engine delivers 29 horsepower and 18.7 lb-ft of torque, making it plenty peppy for urban commuting and weekend canyon carving. The naked styling gives it a more utilitarian look that some riders prefer, and the reduced bodywork means less to damage in a tip-over. Like all CFMOTO models, parts availability remains a consideration, but the value proposition is hard to ignore.

10. Kawasaki KZ125 Pro – $3,799

Breaking the $4,000 barrier, the Kawasaki KZ125 Pro offers legendary Japanese quality at an accessible price point. This hypernaked mini-bike features a 125cc engine producing 10 horsepower, but with a dry weight of just 209 pounds, it’s surprisingly quick. The bike comes equipped with a digital LCD screen, cast wheels, and disc brakes front and rear. The 31.7-inch seat height makes it accessible to riders of various sizes, and the build quality reflects Kawasaki’s decades of experience in motorcycle manufacturing.

9. Yamaha Zuma – $3,799

For the same price as the Kawasaki, Yamaha offers the Zuma scooter, which represents a different approach to affordable transportation. The 125cc engine is paired with a belt transmission, making it incredibly easy to ride. Under-seat storage accommodates a full-face helmet, and there’s even a USB charging port for your devices. With claimed fuel economy of 101 mpg and a 1.6-gallon tank, you’re looking at approximately 160 miles between fill-ups. While not a traditional motorcycle, the Zuma offers unmatched practicality for urban riders.

8. Honda CRF125F – $3,599

Honda’s CRF125F brings the company’s legendary reliability to the entry-level market. This trail bike features a 125cc engine, 17-inch front and 14-inch rear wheels, and 5.9 inches of front suspension travel. The bike weighs just 205 pounds and has a 29.1-inch seat height, making it perfect for younger riders or those new to off-road riding. The $3,599 price tag (plus $300 destination) represents excellent value for a bike from one of motorcycling’s most trusted brands.

7. Yamaha TT-R125LE – $3,599

Yamaha’s answer to the CRF125F offers similar specifications with a few unique features. The “LE” designation indicates an electric starter, eliminating the need for kick-starting. The 124cc engine produces 9.8 horsepower, and the bike features 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels. With a 1.6-gallon fuel tank and excellent fuel economy, range shouldn’t be an issue for most riders. The $3,599 price point (plus $340 destination) makes it competitive with Honda’s offering.

6. Honda XR150L – $3,399

The Honda XR150L represents one of the best values in the dual-sport category. This 149cc machine features a five-speed transmission, 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, and a claimed fuel economy of 79 mpg. With a 2.8-gallon fuel tank, you’re looking at approximately 220 miles of range. The bike weighs 282 pounds and features both disc and drum brakes. At $3,399 (plus $300 destination), it’s actually cheaper than Honda’s 125cc offerings, making it an intriguing option for budget-conscious adventure riders.

5. CFMOTO Papio SS and CL – $3,299

CFMOTO’s Papio line offers two distinct styling options at the same price point. The SS variant features cafe racer styling, while the CL is more of a standard naked bike. Both share the same 126cc engine producing 9.4 horsepower, six-speed transmission, and 12-inch wheels front and rear. The bikes come in different color schemes, with the SS offering more variety. At $3,299 (plus approximately $300 destination), they represent excellent value for riders who want something different from the typical Japanese offerings.

4. Yamaha TT-R110E – $2,499

For younger riders or those seeking an ultra-lightweight trail bike, the TT-R110E is hard to beat. The 110cc engine produces 6.9 horsepower, and the bike weighs just 159 pounds wet. The “E” designation means electric start, and the 14-inch front and 12-inch rear wheels are perfect for smaller riders. At $2,499 (plus $300 destination), it’s the first bike on our list to break the $3,000 barrier, making it an excellent choice for introducing new riders to the sport.

3. Honda Navi – $1,999

The Honda Navi represents something truly unique in the American market – a modern take on the classic minibike concept. With a 109cc engine producing 7.9 horsepower, 12-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels, and a seat height of just 30 inches, it’s about as basic as motorcycles get. The belt transmission makes it incredibly easy to ride, and the $1,999 price tag (plus $300 destination) makes it the most affordable “real” motorcycle from a major manufacturer.

2. Sharmax RST 150 Ultra – $1,350

The Sharmax RST 150 Ultra represents the absolute floor of what you can pay for a new, road-legal motorcycle. At approximately $1,350 (converted from UAE Dirhams), this Chinese-made bike features a 150cc engine producing 13 horsepower. It’s essentially the bare minimum required for road legality – a frame, engine, seat, and wheels. While not available in the U.S. market, it demonstrates just how cheap motorcycles can be in other parts of the world.

1. X-Pro MC-N025 – $759.95

The X-Pro MC-N025 is the cheapest motorcycle we could find, with an msrp of $759.95. However, there’s a catch – it’s currently out of stock everywhere we looked. This 125cc bike represents the absolute minimum in motorcycle design, with no frills whatsoever. At 190 pounds and producing 8.3 horsepower, it’s functional transportation at an unbelievable price point. The fact that it’s consistently out of stock suggests there’s significant demand for ultra-cheap motorcycles, even if the quality and reliability might be questionable.

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