Best Motorcycle For Older Riders (Honest Review!)

Last Updated on January 4, 2023 by Leepu Da Maxim

Some of the best motorcycles for old riders are Harley Davidson Street Glide, 2019 Honda CRF 450 L, Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, BMW R 1200 GS, Honda Monkey, Kawasaki Versys 650 LT, Aprilia Mana 850 GT, Kawasaki ZRX1200, Royal Enfield Himalayan, 1962 Norton Manx, etc.

Key Takeaways

• The Harley Davidson Street Glide is equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine and has a comfortable seat and a spacious luggage compartment for a long ride
• The Honda CRF450L is powered by a 449 cc single-cylinder engine and has long-travel suspension and knobby tires for off-road use
• The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT is powered by an 847 cc inline-three engine that can produce 115 horsepower and 87 Nm of torque
• The Aprilia Mana 850 is an automatic transmission motorcycle that features a liquid-cooled, 839 cc, 90-degree V-twin engine
• The Royal Enfield Himalayan is an adventure touring motorcycle that is powered by a 411 cc single-cylinder engine

Comparison Of The Best Motorcycles For Older Riders

Serial	Motorcycles	Top Speed	Tyre Size	Torque
1.	Harley Davidson Street Glide	105 mph	Front 130/60-B19 Rear 180/55-B18	163 Nm
2.	2019 Honda CRF 450 L	91 mph	Front 80/100-21Rear 120/80-18	87.5 Nm
3.	Yamaha Tracer900 GT	140 mph	Front 120/70 x 17Rear 180/55 x 17	32 Nm
4.	BMWR 1200 GS	130.8 mph	Front 110/80 R 19Rear 150/70 R 17	120 Nm
5.	HondaMonkey	65 mph	Front 120/80-12 65JRear 130/80-12 69J	11 Nm
6.	Kawasaki Versys 650 LT	125 mph	Front 120/70-17 Rear 160/60-17	57 Nm
7.	Aprilia Mana 850 GT	125 mph	Front 120/70 ZR17Rear 190/55 ZR17	73 Nm
8.	Kawasaki ZRX1200	70 mph	Front 120/70-ZR17Rear 180/55-ZR17	112 Nm
9.	Royal Enfield Himalayan	85 mph	Front 90/90-21Rear 120/90-17	32 Nm
10.	1962 Norton Manx	130 mph	Front 90/90 19 52HRear 19	112 Nm

Top Motorcycle For Older Riders Reviewed

This list of Motorcycles for Older Riders is a great bike for any older rider. It will increase the satisfaction and confidence that you have when riding a bike. One of the major reasons why older riders are not successful in their rides is that they lack confidence and self-esteem. You can buy a quality bike but if you don’t feel confident about it, your ride will be limited to just cruising around town or local roads. But for highways – let’s check the bikes listed below:

1. Harley Davidson Street Glide

For older drivers, Harley-Davidsons are a great option. They are the best-selling motorcycles in the United States and they are pretty popular in other countries as well. They have a Milwaukee V-Twin engine, which is no surprise because Milwaukee is the birthplace of this motorcycle brand.

Here it is, a touring bike that provides an upright riding position. Additionally, older riders can enjoy excellent power in combination with an elegant design. At the same time, a lot of space has been incorporated here for drivers who wish to make long-distance trips.

This is a bike with big wheels, but it’s not too big. It has the power to overtake other vehicles easily, which makes it great for long-distance trips. It’s also balanced, so it’s easy to ride. Many older riders like taking long trips. This bike is perfect for them!

Also, this bike has ABS brakes for high performance. So you can enjoy the benefits of in-line braking on the road. In other words, ABS prevents wheels from locking up while riding. And that helps riders avoid accidents and emergencies.

The new model comes with a set of advanced features to optimize the driver’s experience. Older drivers also need modern technology to make traveling more comfortable. The 18-inch aluminum wheels and 19-inch aluminum wheels on the front and back will make driving easier and more fun.
Finally, it’s an aggressive look combined with Harley Davidson’s outstanding features. Also, the quality of the front and rear suspensions offer high performance for an easier ride. So, while it’s not the most powerful bike, riders can still enjoy a smooth, flowing ride.

2. 2019 Honda CRF 450 L

Another model that can provide a more sporty and wild style is the Honda motorcycle. In this case, it is possible to enjoy adequate power and a comfortable ride on the most difficult roads. The design of this motorcycle can provide the proper height so that uneven surfaces are not a real problem. 

However, this is a motorcycle that can offer a high and balanced cost-benefit ratio. So, this means that if you have more than $10,000, you could get this great machine for older riders. Here, an electric starter with a high level of suspension has been incorporated. The different types of Honda sportbikes usually offer a great advantage to many users.

You will notice that the KTM EXC 500 motorcycle is too expensive for you. In turn, when analyzing another of the models such as the ER 650 L we should consider that it is too old and too big a motorcycle.

Another motorcycle that is too big to ride comfortably is the Africa Twin. A motorcycle that is too big is usually not very comfortable to ride even for older riders.

On the contrary, we also do not need an inferior motorcycle like the CRF 250 L. Here the power simply will not be the most suitable to go through different surfaces. Here the wet weight is 289 pounds so this is an excellent weight on a light bike. Along with this, it is more than enough power even though it is not the fastest Honda model.

However, the riding position may be the most appropriate for experienced older riders. Of course, there is not much to discover here when a driver has too many years and knowledge of motorcycles. Beyond that, a Honda sportbike manufactured in 2019 is always an excellent option to undertake a new journey.

3. Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

Of course, here we must not forget the powerful motorcycles that can also offer a formidable posture. Here, we must start by mentioning that the weight is 214 kg and the cylinder capacity is 847 cm3. At the same time, the 115 HP power can be enjoyed along the way. In these times it is a sport-touring motorcycle that can combine the best characteristics of each facet.

A three-cylinder engine with the best Japanese technology has been incorporated. So, for those older riders who want to make long trips or daily use this motorcycle is excellent. The upright ride is also combined with a two-height adjustable seat. Besides, aerodynamic protection is added to offer a pleasant and smooth ride.

In short, this motorcycle can avoid spinal pain due to bad posture after a few minutes of riding. At the same time, the 18-liter tank combines with low consumption to offer a range of approximately 300 kilometers. So, if you want to save some fuel then this vehicle could be very suitable for that.

Other important features are the quick-change system, the traction control with three levels, the system to regulate the power delivery, and the anti-rebound clutch. The aluminum chassis is one of the best suited for excellent strength and high-level aerodynamics. No doubt experienced drivers will enjoy this model.

In several models, a trunk has also been incorporated on each side. So each of these two spaces can provide 22 liters of capacity. In short, you will have the possibility to carry all the components that are necessary for your next trip. We can mention that this is a motorcycle with a front and rear wheel of 17 inches.

4. BMW R 1200 GS

Another motorcycle that is reliable and worth riding is this model BMW. Here, we can notice that this German manufacturer can offer a motorcycle with a total weight of 229 kg and a cylinder capacity of 1170 cc. Together with this, it is a motorcycle with an electronic ignition type and six gears.

So, the various riders can enjoy a formidable ride with the appropriate power. Both for those who enjoy excellent driving posture and speed this bike could be the most appropriate. However, these are not the only good features we can add to this model.

Compared to the previous model here we have incorporated a different catalyst system assembly with different programming of its control unit. Along with this, we must also incorporate the fact of retouching the gearbox and a new transmission shock absorber. Each of these features can offer a smooth and precise experience on every road.

It’s an excellent choice for crossing roads on and off the road. A mixed cooling system has been incorporated as well. On the one hand, the air is used to cool and lower the temperature. Also, the water system is the second element incorporated and lowers the temperature in the critical parts of the engine.

On the other hand, the two 305 mm diameter front discs and the 276 mm diameter rear disc provide a safe and formidable drive. Here, the suspension systems have a longer trip compared to the predecessor model. Of course, the height of this bike is also the most appropriate for riding on all kinds of roads without any problems.

5. Honda Monkey

One of the motorcycles that awaken more nostalgia is the Honda Monkey model. It is a series of motorcycles that began with the first model in 1961. In 2018 a new model has been launched that has been designed from the first Monkey. So, it is simply a motorcycle that some older riders can enjoy.

Of course, it is a motorcycle for fun since an adult cannot get very far with this vehicle. However, the nostalgia for using the same vehicle from childhood is more than enough reason to choose this motorcycle. This is a model that started as a children’s toy with only 8-inch wheels.

Today, it’s an icon because even John Lennon has his own Honda Monkey. Even John Lennon’s motorcycle was auctioned off and got $80,000 for the sale. In these times, 9.5 horsepower and 125 cc engines have been incorporated. Along with that, it is an engine with a 4-speed transmission and great fuel efficiency capability.

Specifically, drivers can enjoy a range of 67 km per liter. While the classic features have been preserved, other innovative features have also been incorporated. The dashboard is an LCD screen while the lights include LED technology. The wheels are 12 inches in size with brake discs and ABS.

Here, the height is 1029 mm, 755 mm wide, 1700 mm long, and a wheelbase of 1155 mm. This makes it a really small vehicle that will allow you to remember the best times of your childhood life. At the same time, the cost-benefit ratio remains formidable if you want to get a vehicle just for your fun. 

6. Kawasaki Versys 650 LT

Many older riders will no doubt enjoy driving this Kawasaki. To begin with, we can mention that it is a very versatile and agile vehicle. So, it will be very easy to cross different curved roads. In this case, you can also enjoy a very comfortable and at the same time aerodynamic driving position.

You will be able to notice that it is a perfect sport motorcycle to cross long trips. Here too, an adjustable windshield has been incorporated to acquire the perfect height according to your path. This windshield can be adjusted in a few steps in three different directions. While these are older riders, that doesn’t mean they couldn’t enjoy the technology.

The various accessories built into this vehicle are combined with a powerful two-cylinder engine. Here, this engine can deliver 7000 revolutions per minute and 47 pound-feet of torque. As mentioned by many users this can be enough when it comes to enjoying an excellent drive.

In other words, it can be a perfect option for everyday driving or for traveling to the desired location. The wet weight is 496 pounds and the fuel capacity is 5.5 gallons. The seat height is 33.1 inches while the transmission is 6-speed. There are two variants of this particular motorcycle.

For those riders who want to save some money, they can opt for the Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS. On the other hand, users with a bigger budget can choose the best features with the Kawasaki Versys 650 LT. Finally, the 17-inch wheels are combined with a perfect height to cross different types of roads.

7. Aprilia Mana 850 GT

Those who enjoy getting to know different motorcycles can mention this model which provides excellent robustness. Here, the V-twin engine provides 76 horsepower as well as 73 lbs. So, it can be a formidable model for those users who enjoy riding something different. 

Additionally, this motorcycle has been manufactured along with other similar models. In the best case, you will enjoy a 17-inch front and rear wheel with excellent quality aluminum. Besides, the ABC brake discs can provide a safe and pleasant ride all the way.

The power is provided by electronic injection with a 38 mm butterfly body. Also, the cooling system uses water mainly to lower the temperature in the most critical parts of the engine. Many users claim that this is a copy of some Honda models. Beyond that, this motorcycle has some sports and touring features.

A windshield with a formidable height is also incorporated to prevent wind from being a problem. That’s why many people can enjoy riding a motorcycle on a lot of difficult surfaces. Of course, the height is acceptable here. In short, many older riders today will be able to enjoy the best features of this vehicle. 

8. Kawasaki ZRX1200

Enjoying a motorcycle with a standard design and Japanese technology is very easy with this model. In this case, it is possible to enjoy 1164 cc and 71 cubic inches 4 inline in the engine. Also, this vehicle can offer 237 kilometers per hour or 147 miles per hour. The total wet weight is 247 kilograms or 545 pounds. Now we must mention the exact design.

Throughout the last models of this motorcycle, the designs have varied in some aspects. While generally the sporty features are retained the front end has been modified. It is possible to find three different designs for the headlights. So, this can be an advantage to getting the best model according to your personality.

Each of these three different versions also includes differentiable features. This is because manufacturing in Japan has been developed until 2016. However, this motorcycle also manufactured in the United States was sold only until 2005. Similarly, motorcycle manufactured in Europe was only sold until 2007.

After that, the design was specifically upgraded to a 6-speed transmission and fuel injection. In particular, this design has been developed to obtain an original replica of Eddie Lawson. It’s precisely for this reason that we can notice some sporty distinctive features. Even the height of 45.3 inches is combined with 17-inch wheels.

9. Royal Enfield Himalayan

Many older riders claim that the motorcycle that combines all the desired features is this particular model. In most points of sale, the cost-benefit ratio is highly beneficial for users with a small budget. It is an excellent option for daily use or long-distance travel.

Especially the 21-inch front wheel is more than enough to go through various off-road and on-road surfaces. In the same way, the robustness of the chassis is combined with a simple and formidable design. Besides, we can mention that the suspensions are high enough so that the road is not a problem.

Older drivers will enjoy 32 lb-ft of torque at 4000 revolutions per minute here. That is why we have mentioned that this is an excellent vehicle beyond the difficulty of the road. Many drivers around the world decide to opt for this motorcycle when they don’t know the route of their journey.

Here, the 411 cc engine does combine with 24 hp power. Of course, this bike provides more confidence instead of high speed. However, the features of this model may be more than enough to convince more than one person. In fact, in most cases, a safe ride is preferable to a high speed.

Additionally, we can also add that the driving posture is comfortable and can be adapted to each situation. The rest of its features are formidable and worth mentioning. 

a) Rear Luggage Rack

b) Complete Mixed Instruments

c) Elevated Exhaust System

d) Robust Bass Cover

e) Acceptable Design Windscreen

We can also mention that this motorcycle allows the transport of external fuel tanks. That is why the tank’s side fenders have been designed. Of course, this is excellent news for those users who must cross inhospitable places.

The aluminum trunks that are optional will allow a greater capacity to transport objects. Without a doubt, this is a vehicle with a classic design that could be one of the best companies on your next trip or extensive exploration.

10. 1962 Norton Manx

Of course, one of the models that we must include is this motorcycle that has been a great sensation between 1946 and 1962. It is a motorcycle that was widely used over the years for races of different styles. Here, it is possible to enjoy a maximum speed of 130 miles per hour up to 140 miles per hour in some cases.

Additionally, the 47 horsepower is combined with 500 cc and 6500 revolutions per minute. In this sense, this is a motorcycle that can provide excellent power. Along with this, the dry weight is 308.6 pounds. With it is a model that is heavier than other motorcycles we have listed.

The drum brakes and 4-speed transmission provide a classic ride. This is a bobber design motorcycle, which is why it is one of the favorite motorcycles that gained great popularity after World War II. So many older riders will enjoy riding this vehicle.

Besides, the last year of production was 1962 as this motorcycle was not produced anymore. In turn, in 1969 this type of motorcycle won the last prize in history. This was the last time a single-cylinder motorcycle won in the 500 cc category in a Grand Prix race.

So, users who wish to drive this vehicle should look for a great opportunity to do so. It would be necessary to buy this motorcycle and repair it completely. Since the last model was manufactured in 1962 it will not be easy to find a motorcycle in good mechanical condition. 

Beyond that, many older riders enjoy buying old motorcycles and completely renovating them. So, if you have the right budget for it, this bike is excellent to remember previous times.

Things To Consider While Picking A Motorcycle For Older Riders

1. Seat

Make sure that the seat is a deep seat that leans a bit forward. Make sure that you can reach the ground with your foot to keep your weight stable.

2. Age

Motorcycles for older riders should be much easier to ride because the engine is much smaller.

3. Weight of Motorcycle

Weight is an important factor for riders. A heavier motorcycle will cause the rider’s weight to be positioned more towards the center of the motorcycle than if they were riding a lighter motorcycle.

4. Engine Size

The smaller the engine, the easier it will be for the rider to handle.

5. Stability

Try to find a motorcycle that is not too

6. Bike Size

– A motorcycle with a small frame is easier to manage

6. Characteristics

– For a new rider, a motorcycle with a lower center of gravity is easier to balance on

– For a beginner, a motorcycle with a smaller turning radius is easier to press

– For an advanced rider, a motorcycle with a smaller turning radius is a little more challenging

7. Tire condition

– More treads create a better grip on the surface

– New tires

8. Rolling resistance

– Less resistance is better for a high-speed ride

– More resistance is better for a low-speed, controlled ride

9. Suspension of Bike for older riders

The recommended bike suspension kits should use a bicycle fork and shock absorber (22.2 mm) and can be installed without discarding your existing bicycle to suspension.

Our bike suspension kits include:

– Spring rubber for shock absorption.

– Aluminum fork and shock absorber.

References:

https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-best-motorcycle-for-an-older-rider

https://motorbikewriter.com/cruisers-best-bike-mature-riders/