We researched and compared seven of the most popular small street legal motorcycles available on Amazon. Our evaluation is based on manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Each bike is analyzed for performance, durability, value, ease of use, and safety to help you make an informed decision.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Honda Grom Top Pick 125cc single-cylinder, 9.7 hp, 225 lb curb weight, 31.3 in seat height |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kawasaki Z125 Pro Runner Up 125cc single-cylinder, 9.8 hp, 224 lb curb weight, 31.7 in seat height |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Yamaha MT-03 Best Value 321cc parallel-twin, 42 hp, 368 lb curb weight, 30.7 in seat height |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kawasaki Ninja 400 Best Sport 399cc parallel-twin, 45 hp, 366 lb curb weight, 30.9 in seat height |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Suzuki TU250X Best Retro 249cc single-cylinder, 16 hp, 326 lb curb weight, 30.9 in seat height |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Honda Rebel 300 Best Cruiser 286cc single-cylinder, 25 hp, 364 lb curb weight, 27.2 in seat height |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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KTM 390 Duke Best Performance 373cc single-cylinder, 44 hp, 364 lb curb weight, 32.7 in seat height |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Honda Grom: Top Pick
The Honda Grom is the undisputed king of small street legal motorcycles. In our evaluation, it stands out for its incredible ease of use, bulletproof reliability, and massive aftermarket. Owners consistently praise its low seat height (31.3 inches) and light weight (225 lb), making it an ideal first bike. The 125cc engine is peppy around town but struggles above 55 mph, so it is best for urban and suburban riding.
However, the Grom is not for riders who need highway speeds or long-distance touring. Its small wheels and limited power make it less stable at high speeds. If you plan to ride on interstates, consider a larger bike. For city commuting and learning, it is unmatched.
- Extremely light and low seat height ideal for beginners
- Proven reliability and huge aftermarket support
- Excellent fuel economy and low maintenance costs
Pros: Fun, easy to ride, and very forgiving; Honda build quality and resale value
Cons: Limited highway capability due to small engine
2. Kawasaki Z125 Pro: Runner Up
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro is the closest competitor to the Honda Grom. We compared it directly: it offers similar power and weight, but with a more aggressive stance and a digital dash that includes a gear indicator. Owner feedback indicates it is just as reliable and fun, though the seat is less comfortable for extended rides. It handles city traffic with ease and is a blast on twisty back roads.
Its main weakness is the same as the Grom: limited highway capability. The Z125 Pro is not suited for sustained high-speed riding. If you prioritize a sportier look and a gear indicator, this is a great choice. But for overall refinement and resale, the Grom edges ahead.
- Slightly more aggressive styling and ergonomics than Grom
- Digital instrument panel with gear indicator
- Reliable and fun, with good aftermarket support
Pros: Sporty looks and comfortable upright riding position; Good value for the price
Cons: Seat can be firm on longer rides
3. Yamaha MT-03: Best Value
The Yamaha MT-03 is a step up in power while remaining beginner-friendly. In our research, it offers the best value for riders who need highway capability. Its 321cc parallel-twin produces 42 hp, enough for 70 mph cruising. The seat height is low at 30.7 inches, and the weight (368 lb) is manageable. Owner feedback highlights its smooth engine and confidence-inspiring handling.
However, the MT-03 is not as flickable as the 125cc bikes, and some owners report that the suspension feels basic on rough roads. It is also more expensive to insure and maintain than a Grom. If you need to commute on faster roads, this is a smart choice. For pure city fun, the smaller bikes are better.
- Larger engine offers real highway capability
- Low seat height and light weight for its class
- Excellent value with modern features
Pros: Can handle highway speeds comfortably; Smooth twin-cylinder engine
Cons: Slightly higher maintenance than smaller bikes
4. Kawasaki Ninja 400: Best Sport
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is the most powerful bike on our list, offering 45 hp from its 399cc twin. We evaluated it as a sporty option that still works for beginners. It is faster than the MT-03 and has a full fairing for better wind protection. Owner feedback praises its track-ready handling and strong brakes.
Its downsides include a more aggressive riding position that can strain wrists and back on long trips. The insurance cost is higher, and it is less forgiving than smaller bikes for absolute novices. If you want a sportbike that you can keep as skills grow, the Ninja 400 is a top contender. But for relaxed commuting, look elsewhere.
- Powerful engine with strong top-end pull
- Sporty fairings and aggressive riding position
- Great track day potential for beginners
Pros: Excellent performance for the price; Smooth clutch and transmission
Cons: Aggressive seating position may be uncomfortable for long rides
5. Suzuki TU250X: Best Retro
The Suzuki TU250X is a charming retro-styled bike that excels in urban environments. In our evaluation, it is one of the easiest bikes to ride due to its low seat height and light weight. The 249cc single-cylinder engine is smooth but only produces 16 hp, which means it is not highway capable. Owner feedback highlights its reliability and fun factor in the city.
However, the TU250X is underpowered for any sustained high-speed riding. It also lacks modern features like ABS on some models. If you want a stylish, simple bike for short trips and back roads, this is a great pick. For highway use, you will be disappointed.
- Classic retro styling with modern reliability
- Very easy to ride with low seat and light weight
- Good fuel economy and simple maintenance
Pros: Charming looks and comfortable upright seating; Ideal for city commuting and learning
Cons: Limited power, struggles on highways
6. Honda Rebel 300: Best Cruiser
The Honda Rebel 300 is a cruiser-style motorcycle that prioritizes low seat height and easy handling. In our research, it is one of the most accessible bikes for shorter riders. The 286cc engine provides adequate power for city riding and light highway use, but it runs out of steam above 65 mph. Owner feedback is positive for its comfort and simplicity.
Its main weakness is the single-cylinder vibration at higher revs and limited passing power. The suspension is basic and can feel harsh on bumps. If you want a cruiser that looks great and is easy to ride, the Rebel 300 is a solid choice. But if you need more highway performance, consider the Rebel 500.
- Very low seat height (27.2 in) for short riders
- Classic cruiser styling with modern fuel injection
- Smooth engine with decent low-end torque
Pros: Accessible seat height inspires confidence; Honda reliability and dealer network
Cons: Lacks power for highway passing
7. KTM 390 Duke: Best Performance
The KTM 390 Duke is the most performance-oriented small bike. With 44 hp from a 373cc single, it is quick and fun. We evaluated it as a bike for riders who want sporty handling and modern features like a TFT dash and adjustable suspension. Owner feedback is mixed: many love the performance, but some report reliability issues and higher maintenance costs.
Its seat height (32.7 in) is taller than others, which may intimidate shorter riders. The single-cylinder engine vibrates noticeably at highway speeds. If you prioritize thrills and are willing to accept higher upkeep, the Duke 390 is a blast. For a more reliable and relaxed experience, choose the Grom or MT-03.
- Powerful single-cylinder engine with punchy acceleration
- Premium suspension and brakes for the class
- Aggressive styling with TFT display
Pros: Exciting performance and handling; Great for experienced beginners
Cons: Higher maintenance and reliability concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best small street legal motorcycle for beginners?
Based on our research, the Honda Grom is the best for absolute beginners due to its low seat height, light weight, and forgiving nature. It is easy to learn on and has a huge aftermarket for customization.
Can small street legal motorcycles go on the highway?
It depends on the bike. Models with engines 300cc and above, like the Yamaha MT-03 or Kawasaki Ninja 400, can handle highway speeds. Smaller 125cc bikes like the Grom are not recommended for sustained highway riding due to limited power.
What is the cheapest small street legal motorcycle to maintain?
The Honda Grom and Suzuki TU250X are among the cheapest to maintain. They have simple air-cooled engines, low oil capacity, and inexpensive parts. Owner feedback indicates minimal upkeep costs.
Which small motorcycle has the lowest seat height?
The Honda Rebel 300 has the lowest seat height at 27.2 inches, making it ideal for shorter riders. The Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro also have low seats around 31 inches.
Are small street legal motorcycles safe?
Yes, but safety depends on the rider. These bikes are less powerful and lighter, which can be safer for beginners. However, they may lack advanced safety features like ABS on some models. We recommend choosing a model with ABS if available.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing specifications and owner feedback, our top pick is the Honda Grom for its unbeatable ease of use, reliability, and fun factor. The runner-up is the Kawasaki Z125 Pro, which offers a sportier alternative with similar strengths. For those needing highway capability, the Yamaha MT-03 provides the best value.
