Top Motorcycles Under $10,000

Yep, we know; this post was up on our site last year too, but because we’ve noticed the subject matter has seen a big boost in traffic over the last year we figured it was ripe for an update with more current models. We’ve also added some machines that might not fall under the “cruiser” category, but still generally carry a similar retro aesthetic with a neutral riding position, and a standard-type architecture. Then again, we threw a minibike in here too, so go figure.

In short, there are plenty of new bikes sporting a decidedly throwback vibe available in 2022, and we’ve included several newbies that have done well on our test rides—and one that hasn’t even been tested yet. Thanks to the imposed price point, the favorites here tend to be urban-friendly, medium-displacement bikes. If you’re wondering why there are no Harleys on the list, the base Sportster Iron 883′s price was raised to $11,249 this year, leaving no more H-D models with a sub-$10K price tag.

Related: Best Cruiser Motorcycles for Beginners

The Monkey or Super Cub usually makes this list, so we thought we’d switch it up by adding a newer Honda miniMOTO model, the Trail 125. The Super Cub-derived, rural-friendly runabout runs the same 125cc single-cylinder as the Super Cub, along with the four-speed, semi-auto transmission and a step-through frame. But the Trail adds heftier longer-travel suspension, an engine guard for protection, and an integrated luggage rack. There’s even front-wheel ABS and an electric starter, but this bike really does tap into fond memories of the ‘70s and ‘80s for those familiar with the original CT/Trail series, while still serving up a practical design and hassle-free technology. It’s a versatile little bugger as well, and one that lends itself to casual trekking both on and off-road. The fun, light, easygoing nature of the Trail 125 is all about relaxing and enjoying the scenery, whether that’s grabbing some groceries or exploring your local forest trails in the simplest way possible.

You’d think that we’d pick Enfield’s Meteor or new Classic 350 models, given their more cruiserlike stances, but instead, we’re going with the just-released, Himalayan-based Scram 411. Yeah, we know, the bike is A) not yet available in the US, and B) a scrambler-styled “ADV crossover” according to the company, but hear us out. The first question is easily answered: At the bike’s launch last month, Enfield did indicate the Scram was a global model, so we know it’ll come to North America (the company says this summer). As for B), we feel like the Scram’s less stuffy styling and off-road-ready vibe are positive attributes, and when you add in the fact that its updated counterbalanced 411cc engine makes more power (24 hp) than the 350 models (20 hp) while carrying less weight, it sounds like a winner.

Scrambler-biased elements like a 19-inch spoked wheel, fork gaiters, skid plate, and flat handlebar are a good match for the Scram’s long-travel suspension and tube-type dual sport tires, making it a super-versatile ride for both city streets as well as the occasional fire road. Official pricing will be released soon, but in the US, it’s sure to be less than—or about the same price as—the current $5,299 Himalayan model.

Wait…a scrambler? Sort of, but it’s more of a standard with scrambler styling or, as Husqvarna is quick to point out, a bike that is at home on “a metropolitan playground, where the blacktop is less than perfect.” The Svartpilen 401 is definitely eye-catching, but styling is almost beside the point here; what’s more appealing is the bike’s snappy liquid-cooled 373cc single-cylinder engine, good for a claimed 44 hp, hung from a lightweight trellis frame and paired with a six-speed gearbox. It’s all surrounded by well-sourced components and supported by modern features like a ride-by-wire throttle, a power assist slipper clutch, adjustable WP Apex suspension, and ByBre brakes with switchable ABS as standard. The spoked wheels are wrapped in blocky Pirelli Scorpion rubber, and the Svartpilen’s upright ergonomics make it a good tool for urban exploring. New riders will instantly take to the lightweight feel and comfortable ergonomics, while more experienced vets will still be able to wring plenty of fun out of the willing and agile sub-400-pound package.

Related: 10 Best Cruisers Under $10K in 2021

There’s a reason Honda’s second-gen Rebels are perennial favorites: Simply put, they offer a hard-to-beat combination of performance, value, and style. We saw updates in suspension, lighting, and styling for the Rebel 500 model in 2020, and the debut of the Africa Twin-based Rebel 1100 last year, so you now have three well-balanced and affordable options for new or returning riders, with quick-revving engines, low seat heights, and easy handling. Of the three, we’re partial to the Rebel 500 primarily for its roomier ergonomics, sub-500-pound weight, and a 471cc twin-cylinder engine with plenty of user-friendly power—a recorded 40.83 peak horsepower on our dyno (and ABS is available as a $300 option, or the ABS SE edition for $500 more).

On the 1100, meanwhile, you get a hefty boost in capability from the 1,084cc parallel twin (81 hp as recorded on our dyno), semi-adjustable suspension, rider modes with traction control, and even an automatic DCT transmission option (a $600 premium), so experienced riders and newbs alike can expand their riding experience and/or skill level. It’s rare to have three distinct choices like these from the same family, all priced under $10,000.

Royal Enfield and Honda look like they have the entry-level bike formula figured out, but their middleweights are no slouches either. Four years after its debut, Royal Enfield’s retro-styled INT650 continues to be a staff favorite, with its classic ‘60s-era Brit-bike styling, responsive handling, and upright ergonomics. The standard INT650 is powered by a friendly 648cc parallel twin, which put out 42.6 hp on our dyno, but our testers were even more impressed by the smooth throttle delivery. And despite the jaw-droppingly low price tag, neither the INT650 nor its sibling, the cafe racer-inspired Continental GT, feels cheap or flimsy, and feature modern components like Brembo-made brakes and piggyback shocks, both serving up a refined and thoroughly fun riding experience. The INT650′s solid Harris-designed chassis, comfortable riding position, standard dual-channel ABS, and high level of fit and finish make it a solid choice for those just starting out as well as old-timers with a few more miles under their belt.

And if you’re more into clip-ons and rearsets with your vintage vibe, the closely related and just-as-competent Continental GT model should be on your list as well.

Yamaha still lists the Bolt in its 2022 lineup, and like last year, you can only have the R-Spec version, with piggyback shocks and cast-alloy spoke wheels. If you don’t count the bare-bones, entry-level V-Star 250, the Bolt represents the brand’s sole remaining cruiser. That attitude is unmistakable and features a minimal, old-school style, an air-cooled 942cc V-twin engine, solo seat, chopped fenders, and teardrop-style fuel tank. Shorter and intermediate riders will be attracted to the low seat height and narrow, compact chassis but the fuel-injected 60-degree V-twin is also good fun, outputting a healthy 50.8 hp (as recorded on our dyno) in a very smooth manner. The throwback styling exhibits some modern influences which have helped it age well, and we haven’t seen any real updates or changes in the last few years because they haven’t really been needed. The Bolt’s a good choice for those looking for an affordable V-twin alternative to the Harley Sportster, especially given that model’s recent restyle, but an ABS option for the Yamaha seemingly has been dropped.

Another decidedly non-cruiser-styled bike, the Kawasaki Z650RS, makes the cut

this year. We kicked its cousin the Vulcan S off the list, because the Z650RS is newer and because we feel it will appeal to a wider variety of riders, while still retaining that sporty parallel-twin powerplant with a claimed 65 hp (albeit with different tuning). The RS makes no bones about its visual homage to the 1970s-era Z1, but look beyond the very cool vintage lines and you’ll find a package to suit almost any rider, with a wide, comfortable seat, neutral ergonomics, and a modern, liquid-cooled parallel twin straight out of the sporty Ninja 650. Nimble handling and that spirited but user-friendly engine combined with excellent brakes (and standard ABS) makes for a thoroughly enjoyable rig with a very cool old-school look, and one that can handle a variety of riding situations. Like many of the older standards, the Z650RS is built to do it all, whether short hops around town, easy cruises on backroads, or more heated strafing in the canyons. You can choose from two color options, but for us, it’s Candy Emerald Green all the way.

A side note: For 2022, you can still get the base-model Vulcan S, without ABS.

With Indian raising the price of its Scout Sixty for 2022, it’s now up to the Scout Bobber Sixty and its new offshoot, the Rogue Sixty, to take its place on this list. But not to worry; both are still powered by that same lovely 999cc liquid-cooled V-twin that put out a healthy 67.8 hp and 55.8 pound-feet of torque on our dyno. The stripped-down no-frills Scout Sixty treats riders to a superlow height from the solo seat (just 25.6 inches), a low center of gravity, and a well-spaced five-speed gearbox.

The Scout Rogue Sixty, meanwhile, swaps out some parts to add a club-style look to the Scout Sixty’s underpinnings, with the same 60ci engine and five-speed transmission to power the package. The Rogues also add a 19-inch wheel up front, mini-ape handlebars, a small fairing, and bar-end mirrors, while blacking out a bunch of other parts like the exhaust to add more menace. The Scout Rogue Sixty in black and without ABS just makes our list with a price of $9,999.

Triumph’s retro-styled Bonneville standard has long been a hit with new riders, older enthusiasts, and hipsters alike, but the Street Twin manages to fits its cousin’s timeless looks into a slightly smaller, simpler package that’s equally appealing—in fact, the Street Twin was named Cycle World’s Best Standard back in 2016, so clearly it’s doing something right. The Street Twin got minor updates to its 900cc engine to meet Euro 5 emissions standards for the 2022 model year, but it still retains the same low seat height, spirited ride quality, and downright cool character as prior versions. The Street Twin’s 900cc parallel twin with 270-degree firing order recorded 60.06 on our dyno, and with modern conveniences like ride-by-wire throttle, two riding modes, switchable traction control, and ABS all standard, you can see why it would appeal to all those aforementioned groups as well as our staff, and why its become Triumph’s bestselling modern classic model.

As a classically styled machine with semi-modern components, the C50 is about as bulletproof a bike as it gets, at least in the middleweight, throwback cruiser world. A teardrop-shaped fuel tank, spoked wheels, full fenders, deeply dished saddle, and an 805cc V-twin powerplant check all the retro aesthetic requirements, while liquid-cooling, fuel injection, and shaft drive make for great reliability and fewer maintenance requirements. Of course there are some concessions to price, like a drum rear brake and a five-speed gearbox, but with its low seat height, wide handlebars, and easy clutch operation the C50 still represents an easy-to-ride option for a reasonable price. If you’re in the mood for some light-duty touring, just sling some saddlebags across the back and you’re good to go. There’s even (a small) pillion seat for a passenger if you want company.