Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

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Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
Photos: Herzog / jkunstle.de

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

22nd pictures

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
markus-jahn.com / Duke

1/22
Sleek, large-capacity entry-level bikes replaced the inexpensive middle class with 500 to 600 cm³. Tough but true: the likeable no-stress motorcycles of the U-700 class are out. But still good, and therefore highly recommended as an inexpensive entry-level machine.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
fact

2/22
Suzuki Bandit 650 / S.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
Honda

3/22
Honda CBF 600 S..
Price example: EZ 8/2006, 44,500 km, heated grips, all wear parts new, case, private seller, VHB 2550 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
Honda

4/22
Honda CBF 600 S..

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

5/22
Yamaha XJ6.
Price example: EZ 11/2009, 43,200 km, three previous owners, service new, cockpit window, dealer, 2800 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

6/22
Yamaha XJ6.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
MOTORCYCLE

7/22
The problem with many entry-level machines: not very travel-friendly. Many super tourers, however, are hardly suitable for beginners. Because too expensive and too heavy. With the following tourers, however, wanderlust can be combated well and cheaply.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

8/22
Honda Deauville.
Used RC47s can be found from 1500 euros, RC52 from 3000 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

9/22
Honda Deauville.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
markus-jahn.com

10/22
Suzuki GSX 600 F.
The Japanese can be purchased from 1,000 euros with less than 30,000 kilometers.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
fact

11/22
Suzuki Bandit 650 / S.
Price example: EZ 10/2007, 18,848 km, 1st hand, extras (chain oiler, vario disc, etc.), dealer, VHB 2700 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
duke

12/22
Ducati Monster 600.
Price example: Single room 5/1994, 32,000 km, absolutely unspoilt original condition, private seller, 2300 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
markus-jahn.com / Herzog / fact

13/22
Three bikes with a displacement of 500 cc for less than 1500 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
markus-jahn.com

14/22
Honda CB 500.
Price example: EZ 3/1996, 29,168 km, two previous owners, oil and TuV new, from private, VHB 1100 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
manufacturer

15/22
Kawasaki ER-5 Twister.
Price example: EZ 8/1996, 24,500 km, new battery and tires, chain set at 22,000 km, from private, 1250 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
manufacturer

16/22
Kawasaki ER-5 Twister.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
duke

17/22
Suzuki GS 500 E..
Price example: EZ 10/1992, 19,500 km, everything original and from first hand, new tires, from private, 950 euros.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

18/22
Suzuki GS 500.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
fact

19/22
With a little more budget, the displacement can also be increased on request. These three motorcycles can each boast 600 cc or more.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

20/22
Hyosung GT 650i.
Price example: EZ 4/2011, only 3029 km (!), Two previous owners, private offer, 2450 euros negotiable.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
jkuenstle.de

21/22
Hyosung GT 650i.

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
manufacturer.

22/22
Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion.
Used – meticulously cared for and first hand – can be found under 2000 euros.

counselor

Used purchase

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
The forgotten class

Inexpensive mid-range machines with 500 cm³ have long impressed the masses and offered beginners the best conditions for a start into the motorcycle hobby. Until sleeker, larger-capacity entry-level bikes replaced them. Hard but true: the likeable no-stress motorcycles of the U-700 class are out. Now used bargain hunters are blowing Halali.

Thorsten Dentges

09/03/2015

Yes, they do exist: fearless beginners who, shortly after acquiring a driver’s license or after many years of abstinence, climb onto some displacement and horsepower monster and roar like crazy. At least if you have had a driver’s license for a long time or are older than 24 years and can whistle on the level driver’s license, i.e. are not limited to 48 hp. Hot spurs who let themselves be shot away on Fireblades, Hayabusas or Super Dukes, or gray gentlemen who clumsily climb calibers like Triumph Rocket or BMW Adventure in order not to appear girlish. You can do anything. Notorious self-overestimators should not be surprised if they stumble while maneuvering due to a lack of vehicle control and then cannot get up the heavy load. In the worse case: if you were too eager to “run out of street” according to your own statement..

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Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes

Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes
The forgotten class

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It is not for nothing that driving schools for novices usually choose smaller, tame machines that, above all, do not stress. Small but very effective test for novice drivers: look for a piece of green and carefully place the machine on its side. Then pick it up again. Does it work without breaking a sweat? Bravo, you are ready for this motorcycle! With the models presented here, even more timid beginners and returnees should succeed in the test, and when driving, these machines turn into good friends who sometimes forgive mistakes. Promised!

Motorcycles for the small budget

If you look around the current entry-level bikes, you will find a great selection: BMW F 800 R, Honda NC 700, Yamaha MT-07 or motorcycles of the new, very powerful middle class such as one Kawasaki Z 800 or Triumph Street Triple. These machines are easy to handle despite having more than 100 HP in some cases. But it costs a lot. With used prices well in excess of 2500 euros, young beginners in particular quickly get out of the car without parental support, especially since they have often only just paid a lot of money for a driver’s license and driver equipment. Older semesters, sometimes burdened by building loans and children in expensive training, are often unsure when returning to work as to whether the motorcycle hobby will actually become a passion again. And understandably they are also more defensive financially.

So it comes in handy that the used market offers an abundance of fantastic models, which are now a bit out of fashion, but attract with extremely attractive purchase prices. You don’t have to invest more than 1000 euros to get solid goods. Another 1000 and a little more, and you will find machines that were “State of the Art” only a few years ago. With ABS, with accessories, properly cared for and maintained. Which, despite the seemingly weak values ​​on paper, can surprisingly keep up with current entry-level bikes in practice.

A few more tips for smart beginners: Motorcycles up to 78 hp are comparatively cheap in insurance, and up to 50 hp, sometimes ridiculously low rates are called. There is money left over, for example for meaningful driver safety training. By the way, 48 HP throttle sets are available for almost all of the more powerful machines presented here for a little more than 100 euros (for example from Alpha Technik, www.alphatechnik.de). None of the relatively light Sub-700s seem too weak. Just don’t make the mistake of really forgetting this class!

Up to 1500 euros


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


markus-jahn.com / Herzog / fact

Three classic representatives from the very affordable price range up to 1500 euros.

Honda CB 500


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


markus-jahn.com

Honda CB 500.

Big or small, guy or woman, everyone can get along with it – the 500 offers a dresser seating position for drivers from 1.60 meters, but also fits 1.90-meter tall riders. In addition, the driving behavior is pleasantly neutral and more than good-natured, so that the Honda CB 500 qualified as an absolutely perfect beginner’s machine. Even novice screwdrivers can try their hand at the simple, maintenance-friendly machine.

But apart from chain maintenance, oil change (every 12,000 kilometers) and an occasional check of the sensitive steering head bearing, there is not much to do. The valve clearance only needs to be checked every 15,000 miles. The Honda CB 500, offered from 1993 to 2003, was hardly changed technically during its construction period. From 1997 it was produced in Italy, and a disc brake replaced the drum as a rear brake. In 1998 an S version with half-shell cladding was added. The second hand offer is huge.

+ PLUS
Well-proven technology, mileage over 50,000 kilometers with proper maintenance without any problems; foolproof handling; good driver and passenger ergonomics

– MINUS
Chassis relatively soft, quickly overwhelmed; vulnerable steering head bearing; From 1997 onwards, problems with rust in the tank after long periods of inactivity

Technical data (Honda CB 500 – model year 1998)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 499 cm³, 43 kW (58 PS) at 9500 rpm, weight 195 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, seat height 790 mm, top speed 180 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 5.2 sec , Consumption 4.3 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 3/1996, 29,168 km, two previous owners, oil and TuV new, from private, VHB 1100 euros

Kawasaki ER-5 Twister


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


manufacturer

Kawasaki ER-5 Twister.

The Kawasaki ER-5 Twister is more of a whirlwind than a storm, because it turns around the corner with ease and lively, but by today’s standards, a maximum of 50 hp hardly knocks even beginners off their feet. The frugal engine has already performed reliably thousands of times in other Kawasaki models (e.g. GPZ 500 S, KLE 500). You can hardly go wrong with the rock-solid ER-5 (built from 1996 to 2006), which is good for mileage well beyond 50,000 kilometers.

Sit on it, feel good and drive off. In 2001 there was a new tank (17 liters) and the chassis and brakes were modified. From 2004 a catalytic converter is on board. And tighter fork springs! But even with many older copies of the Kawasaki ER-5 Twister, the previous owners have already done their own thing and optimized the machine with better accessories.

+ PLUS
Powerful, very agile twin; maintenance-friendly technology; low consumption, extremely low maintenance costs; Sitting position suitable for long distances

– MINUS
Quite cheap, underdamped strut; Fork too soft; limited lean angle, touches down comparatively early; weak rear drum brake

Technical data (Kawasaki ER-5 Twister – model year 1996)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 499 cm³, 37 kW (50 PS) at 9000 / min, weight 195 kg, tank capacity 16 liters, seat height 780 mm, top speed 178 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 5.3 sec , Consumption 4.3 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 8/1996, 24,500 km, battery and tires new, chain set at 22,000 km, from private, 1250 euros

Suzuki GS 500


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


jkuenstle.de

Suzuki GS 500.

The Suzuki GS 500 gets you through everyday life without frills, costs little to maintain and is considered a loyal endurance runner. Due to its easy handling and low seat height, the 500 series, offered from 1989 to 2007, was also a hit as a driving school machine – a sign that even the most timid drivers can quickly get used to the machine.

For the 2001 model year, the Suzuki GS 500 was thoroughly revised, among other things a tubular handlebar replaced the stub and the tank now held 20 liters. Second-hand buyers with a strong need to save can safely buy much older machines, as long as they have been well cared for and serviced. Rust nests, for example, are easy to recognize, but whether all oil changes have been carried out regularly in the air-cooled engine can only be traced with sufficient documentation. Rule: the fewer previous owners, the better. Bargains can be found in abundance for less than 1000 euros.

+ PLUS
Maximum performance compliant with the current entry-level driver’s license; lively parallel twin; decent brakes; playfully easy to drive; Thrifty

– MINUS
Processing sometimes very careless, frame susceptible to rust; sparse furnishings, rustic paint quality; weak spring elements; hard, uncomfortable bench

Technical data (Suzuki GS 500 – model year 1998)
Air-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 487 cm³, 33 kW (45 PS) at 9000 / min, weight 189 kg, tank capacity 17 liters, seat height 740 mm, top speed 177 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 5.4 sec , Consumption 4.4 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 10/1992, 19,500 km, everything original and from first hand, new tires, from private customers, 950 euros

Up to 2500 euros


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


fact

With a little more budget, the displacement can also be increased on request. These three motorcycles can each boast 600 cc or more.

Hyosung GT 650i


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


jkuenstle.de

Hyosung GT 650i.

The brand from Korea has not yet really scored well with German motorcyclists. However, it is also difficult to fight against a well-developed dealer network of the Japanese competition. The exotic beats itself on the road and on the move Hyosung GT 650i compared to other 650s, however, brave and attracts with attractive used prices. Because the price called up by the seller is rarely actually paid, discounts of over 30 percent are no exception.

So it is easy to get hold of extremely cheap, almost new machines at very low rates. However, the money saved should be invested in a high-quality retrofit strut if possible. Then you drive much better with the handsome Hyosung GT 650i (from 2007), which scores among other things with an 82 hp injector V2.

+ PLUS
Range of over 400 kilometers; strong V2 engine, robust sound; Second-hand prices with very good scope for negotiation; relaxed sitting position

– MINUS
Poor quality, poorly tuned shock absorber; moderate brake dosage; somewhat weak; partially careless processing

Data (Hyosung GT 650i – model year 2008)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 647 cm³, 60 kW (82 PS) at 9250 / min, weight 214 kg, tank capacity 17 liters, seat height 780 mm, top speed 210 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 4.3 sec, consumption 3.9 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 4/2011, only 3029 km (!), Two previous owners, private offer, 2450 euros negotiable

Ducati Monster 600


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


duke

Ducati Monster 600.

Looking for a machine with flair and elegance? For one that speaks to the heart? Are you allowed to be a bit older and have potential collectors? Then it fits Ducati Monster 600, which already appealed to motorcycle purists in the 90s with its timeless design. The performance of the air-cooled V2 with 52 HP is rather modest, but the stable chassis and the beautiful sound also produce other sensual pleasures in motion.

The selection of recommended used vehicles is not too large, however, because most of the time the Ducati Monster 600 has already passed through several hands, many of whom have maintained, cared for or converted the machine in a rather amateurish way. Tip: Only look for items that are in their original condition. When reselling the prices for a Monster M 600 (1994 to 2002) then remain fairly stable.

+ PLUS
Very stable chassis, sits comfortably in fast corners; precise gear; clean welds; light weight; good acceleration; low consumption

– MINUS
Inspection costs relatively high (desmodromics, expensive valve clearance control); no tachometer; Stuckern when driving at low revs; low payload

Data (Ducati Monster 600 – model year 1994)
Air-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 583 cm³, 39 kW (53 PS) at 8250 rpm, weight 187 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, seat height k. A., top speed 170 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 5.0 seconds, consumption from 4.0 l / 100 km 

Price example
EZ 5/1994, 32,000 km, absolutely unspoilt original condition, private seller, 2300 euros

Suzuki Bandit 650 / S


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


fact

Suzuki Bandit 650 / S

The Suzuki was enough to match the grandiose numbers of its 600 predecessor Bandit 650 not even close, but at least 12,000 buyers decided in favor of this affordable and very well-engineered mid-range machine between 2005 and 2012. With stocks still high, those interested in used can easily find a great bargain. And don’t take any chances with the 650, because hardly any other offers more reliability for so little money.

The four-in-a-row is considered to be almost indestructible, and the rest of the technology is also not stressful. Although the water-cooled version (type WVCJ / Z, from year of construction 2007) is almost 20 kilos heavier, it is considered a better choice due to its 8 HP more power and more torque. Especially with ABS. The half-clad Suzuki Bandit 650 S is more popular and more common.

+ PLUS
Adjustable seat height; good touring suitability; frugal with fuel consumption; smooth engine characteristics; great straight-line stability; comfortable seats

– MINUS
Comparatively high weight for the class; Gear a bit hooked; Braking relatively blunt; touches down quickly in an inclined position, little feedback when driving fast

Data (Suzuki Bandit 650 – model year 2009)
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 656 cm³, 63 kW (86 PS) at 10,500 rpm, weight 251 kg, tank capacity 19 liters, seat height 800/820 mm, top speed 205 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 3, 8 seconds, consumption 4.4 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 10/2007, 18,848 km, 1st hand, extras (chain oiler, vario disc etc.), dealer, VHB 2700 euros

Honda CBF 600 S.


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


Honda

Honda CBF 600 S..

This motorcycle is the first choice for everyone who just wants to ride in peace. As an S version with good wind protection thanks to the half-shell cladding, the Honda CBF 600 S, launched in 2004 as the PC38, is also ideal for relaxing trips, because the seating comfort is great. The bench and handlebars can be adjusted, which means that the ergonomics for the driver and other passengers are almost always right. With a range of almost 500 kilometers – due to the large tank and the low fuel consumption – nothing interrupts the flow of driving so quickly. The machine also runs and runs continuously, because the ultra-robust in-line quad is good for six-figure mileage.

From year of construction 2008 (newer type PC43) an injection fires the machine, and the chassis and cockpit have been modified. There was no need to adjust the handlebars, instead an aluminum replaced the steel frame, and the engine runs (even) more refined. As a new vehicle, the Honda CBF 600 S was a top seller among beginners for a long time, which is why the market is now well stocked with second-hand machines. Interested parties should not do without value-retaining ABS equipment (which is often missing in imported used vehicles). Even with more than 50,000 kilometers on the watch, you can access it without hesitation if the previous owner acknowledges himself as a touring driver and can prove regular maintenance. Still carrying your suitcase? Slam!

+ PLUS
Handy and stable to drive; Top seating comfort; very good natured, economical engine; good brakes with (optional) ABS system and very good deceleration values

– MINUS
Pulling power moderate (100–140 km / h in over 6 seconds); some components of simple design; at high speed strong turbulence behind the steep disc

Data (Honda CBF 600 S – model year 2008)
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 599 cm³, 57 kW (78 hp) at 10,500 rpm, weight 226 kg, tank capacity 20 liters, seat height 770–800 mm, top speed 213 km / h, acceleration 0–100 km / h 4, 0 sec, consumption 4.6 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 8/2006, 44,500 km, heated grips, all wear parts new, case, private seller, VHB 2550 euros

Yamaha XJ6


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


jkuenstle.de

Yamaha XJ6.

As the Yamaha XJ6 Launched in 2009, it went like sliced ​​bread. This was not least due to the very cheap new price of 6,000 euros at the time. Instead there was a super solid and economical four-cylinder. Above all, the very petite appearance with moderate seat height, uncomplicated handling and optional ABS appealed (and appeals!) Especially unsafe motorcycle beginners to saddle up. A down-to-earth machine, almost to the point of boredom, but still great, which sold around 10,000 times in the first five years.

Of all things, the Yamaha makes a different Yamaha model XJ6 The hegemonic bestseller role has been in dispute since 2014: The lively two-cylinder Yamaha MT-07 machine now costs even less. This has the consequence that the used prices for the series four-600s, which are still easy to drive even with a throttled 48 hp, are falling. There are still only a few offers for less than 3000 euros, but with a little negotiating skill and hunting fever, pretty and well-groomed XJ6 naked models can be torn up at rates of around 2500 euros. Attention: If the original throttle valve, which is not available as a spare part, is missing on power-reduced machines (often in the case of imports), upgrading to 78 hp becomes a problem. 

+ PLUS
Amazingly low weight for a four-cylinder; very easy handling and completely unproblematic when maneuvering; low maintenance costs; solid technology

 – MINUS
Moderate payload of just 180 kilos; hardly any lashing options for luggage; Shock absorber tuned too soft; Brakes and ABS just average

Data (Yamaha XJ6 – model year 2009)
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 600 cm³, 57 kW (78 PS) at 10,000 rpm, weight 215 kg, tank capacity 17.3 liters, seat height 790 mm, top speed 200 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h 4, 0 sec, consumption 4.5 l / 100 km

Price example
EZ 11/2009, 43,200 km, three previous owners, service new, cockpit window, dealer, 2800 euros

Cheap tourers for beginners


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


jkuenstle.de

The Honda Deauville offers beginners the best conditions for inexpensive tours

The problem with many entry-level machines: not very travel-friendly. Many super tourers, however, are hardly suitable for beginners. Because too expensive and too heavy. With these tourers, however, wanderlust can be combated well and cheaply. 

Honda Deauville


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


jkuenstle.de

Honda Deauville.

Cardan, case and a lot of comfort – characteristics of a super tourer, even if the Honda Deauville In terms of displacement, it belongs to the sub-700 cubic class. The very frugal machine with a stable V2 engine was offered for the first time in 1998 with 56 hp for the equivalent of a good 7300 euros (type RC47). The heavily revised type RC52 with more displacement, injection, 65 hp, optional ABS (2012 series) was sold as a new vehicle from 2006 to 2012, mostly for less than 10,000 euros. Used RC47s can be found from 1500 euros, RC52 from 3000 euros.

Suzuki GSX 600 F


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


markus-jahn.com

Suzuki GSX 600 F.

The 600cc sports touring machine was still a big seller in the early 90s. In 1998 the new AJ got a new look – rounder, more opulent – and completely flopped with buyers. In 2001 the Suzuki GSX 600 F was withdrawn from the range. But that doesn’t change the fact that this 80 hp type still has a lot to offer today: a handy chassis, a reliable row quad, good wind protection and a comfortable seating position. It drives dynamically but is absolutely suitable for long journeys and can be purchased for as little as 1,000 euros with less than 30,000 kilometers.

Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


manufacturer.

Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion.

From 1991 to 2003, over 40,000 new buyers saddled up the Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion. Including many touring riders who equipped the motorcycle with a luggage set and a high accessory windshield, making it a bit boring but never overwhelming travel companion. Such used ones – meticulously cared for and first hand – can be found under 2000 euros. With good maintenance, you don’t have to worry about the conventional, air-cooled in-line four-cylinder with 61 hp. Even mileage far beyond 50,000 kilometers does not stress him.

Cheap motorcycles for sale in Germany


Second-hand advice on cheap entry-level bikes


1000PS marketplace app

Motorcycling doesn’t have to be expensive.

Anyone who thinks that motorcycling has to be expensive fun should take a look at the used market. You can save a lot of money with used entry-level motorcycles without having to make any major sacrifices in terms of driving pleasure. Here is a price comparison of all motorcycles from this report: used entry-level bikes in Germany.

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