Buying Your First Motorcycle: Let’s Talk Size (Ep. 1)
Buying your first motorcycle is an exciting milestone—but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s exactly why we’re launching this series: to break down the key things every first-time rider should know before making that first purchase.
In Episode 1, we’re kicking things off with one of the most important—and misunderstood—topics for new riders: engine size.
What Does "CC" Mean, and Why Does It Matter?
When shopping for a bike, you'll hear a lot about "cc," which stands for cubic centimeters. It's a measure of engine displacement—the total volume of all the engine's cylinders. In simpler terms, the higher the cc, the more powerful (and often heavier) the bike.
But here’s the catch: bigger isn’t always better—especially when you're just getting started.
While large-displacement motorcycles can offer thrilling speed and acceleration, that power can be hard to manage for beginners who haven’t developed muscle memory or confidence on two wheels.
Small-Displacement Bikes: 300cc to 500cc
For most new riders, a bike in the 300cc to 500cc range hits the sweet spot. These motorcycles offer enough power to enjoy highway speeds and keep up with traffic, but they're still lightweight, manageable, and forgiving as you learn.
Smaller bikes are easier to handle at low speeds, simpler to maneuver in parking lots, and more affordable in terms of price, insurance, and fuel. Plus, they encourage you to develop proper riding technique—rather than relying on brute horsepower.
A few examples in this range include:
These bikes are perfect for learning the ropes without feeling underpowered.
Mid-Sized Motorcycles: 600cc to 800cc
Once you move up to the 600cc to 800cc class, you’re entering intermediate territory. These motorcycles can still be beginner-friendly if you’ve got some confidence or experience on smaller machines. They offer more performance, better suspension, and the ability to grow with you as your skills improve.
However, they’re also faster, heavier, and less forgiving of mistakes. That means they’re not ideal for every beginner—but for some riders, especially those planning longer rides or highway commutes, they can be a smart first choice.
Common models in this range:
Just be honest with yourself about how much power you need versus how much you’re ready to handle.
High-Performance & Liter Bikes: 900cc+
You’ve probably seen these machines—sleek, powerful, and loud. Bikes in the 900cc to 1300cc+ range, also known as “liter bikes,” are made for experienced riders who know how to handle serious speed and torque.
As tempting as they may be, they’re not recommended for beginners. These bikes are heavy, fast, and can be unforgiving of even small errors. Getting ahead of your skill level isn’t just dangerous—it can be expensive.
If your goal is to ride something like a Yamaha R1 or a Harley Street Glide eventually, that’s great! But start small and work your way up. You'll be a better, safer, and more confident rider because of it.
So…What Size Should You Start With?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are a few quick questions to help guide your decision:
- What’s your riding goal? (Commuting, weekend cruising?)
- How tall are you? (Some bikes fit taller or shorter riders better.)
- Have you ever ridden before? (Even dirt bike or scooter experience helps.)
- Are you comfortable with speed, or does it still make you nervous?
In general, starting smaller gives you more room to learn and grow, while keeping costs and risks lower. You’ll be amazed how much more confident you’ll feel after a few months on a bike that matches your comfort level.
Final Thoughts
Your first motorcycle is more than just a purchase—it’s the beginning of your riding journey. And choosing the right size is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Start with something you can handle and enjoy, and you'll set yourself up for years of safe, confident, and exciting rides.
Stay tuned for the next episode in our series, where we’ll talk about different styles of motorcycles—from cruisers to sport bikes to adventure tourers—and how to choose one that fits your lifestyle.
Ready to explore some beginner-friendly bikes in person? Stop by Big Hometown Motorsports and let our team help you find the perfect fit!