- Table of Contents
- 1. Starting Your Motorcycle Journey
- 2. What to Look for in a Motorcycle Rental After Your DMV Test?
- 3. Renting a DMV Prepared Motorcycle
- 4. Which Motorcycle Brand to Rent as a Beginner?
- 5. List of Best Beginner Motorcycle Rentals
- 5.1 Honda Rebel 500
- 5.2 Harley Davidson Street 500
- 5.3 Suzuki GX250R
- 5.4 Yamaha V-Star 250
- 5.5 Yamaha YZF R3
- 6. Rent Motorcycle Safety Gear
- 7. Takeaway
Have you passed your motorcycle license test recently? The first thing you need to begin your post-license riding practice is to find a beginner-friendly motorcycle. While entry-level motorcycles can be purchased at cheap prices, most riders do not like being stuck with one after they have moved past basic riding skills. It is more gratifying to ride a fancy cruiser or fully-dressed tourer rather than a beginner-friendly motorbike.
The best course of action is to rent an easy-to-handle, small displacement motorcycle. At this stage, you will not only hone your riding skills, but also develop a unique riding style.
1. Starting Your Motorcycle Journey
In this article, you will learn how to continue practicing riding a motorcycle after earning your motorcycle license. Without a full motorcycle license or a valid endorsement on your driver’s license, you cannot qualify to rent a motorcycle. If you are still relatively inexperienced, then it is best you learn how to ride by first completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Course, pass a motorcycle license test, and rent a beginner-friendly motorcycle before moving on to bigger, more powerful two-wheelers.
Related: License Requirements of Motorcycle Rental Services in the USA?
2. What to Look for in a Motorcycle Rental After Your DMV Test?
With the wide selection of motorcycles available at rental services, it can be difficult to find the right beginner-friendly motorcycle best suited to help you improve your riding skills. Many experienced riders advise beginners to ride motorbikes they feel most comfortable with. This allows beginners to master slow speed maneuvers, quick braking, gear transitions, and learn how to operate the controls.
At motorcycle rentals, you should select from the most lightweight and agile motorcycles in their fleets. Make sure the motorcycle has a reliable engine with a small displacement no more than 500 cc. It is recommended you only rent or buy a 1100 cc or higher cruiser after you have learned intermediate riding skills.
Riding a heavyweight motorcycle with a large displacement can be extremely difficult for a beginner to handle due to the overwhelming amount of horsepower and torque. Here is a quick checklist of qualities to look for in your first entry-level motorcycle rental:
| QUALITIES TO LOOK FOR IN A MOTORCYCLE RENTAL FOR DMV | |
|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | A small engine displacement between 200-600 cc with a power output that beginners can handle. |
| Horsepower | A beginner motorcycle should not be able to produce more than 50-60 hp. |
| Anti-Lock Braking System | Make sure your motorcycle rental comes with an anti-lock braking system. |
| Speed | During the DMV test, you will be graded on slow-speed riding, so your motorcycle should not go faster than 80-120 mph. |
| Weight | A lightweight motorcycle is easier to steer and handle. A 300-450 lbs motorcycle is best for a novice rider. |
3. Renting a DMV Prepared Motorcycle
As a beginner, make sure to ride a well-tuned motorcycle rental. A motorcycle with a hard clutch, bad throttle response, and overly-responsive brakes will make traveling in the middle of a crowded road incredibly dangerous. If a motorcycle is faulty, it can cause novice riders to become stressed, panic, and increase the risk of getting into accidents.
Most renowned motorcycle rental services keep their fleets well-maintained, so you should have no problem finding a street-worthy two-wheeler. However, sometimes purchasing for a motorcycle rental can be expensive.
Take time to research a reliable and well-reputed motorcycle rental service. Check if there are any local motorcycle rental services close to place of residence. Once you find some good motorcycle rental services, check the costs of their rates and Just make sure you inspect the motorcycle rental well before reserving and taking it out on the road.
4. Which Motorcycle Brand to Rent as a Beginner?
Once you have your motorcycle license, you can rent any type of motorcycle from any brand. From the most luxurious Harley Davidson motorcycle to stylish Honda motorcycles to powerful Yamaha motorcycles, you have no shortage of options. But the motorcycle brand does not matter so long as the motorcycle is reliable and easy to handle. If it is lightweight, underpowered, and has all the qualities mentioned above, then you should rent the motorcycle.
5. List of Best Beginner Motorcycle Rentals
Here is a recommended list of entry-level motorcycles that you can rent to practice riding after you get your motorcycle license:
5.1 Honda Rebel 500
Photo Credit: @newsbytesapp
A stylish, sporty-looking standard motorcycle, the Rebel 500 is a great beginner bike weighing only 421 lbs. It boasts a reasonably powerful engine that a beginner can handle. You will enjoy the extra power and speed that its 500 cc single cylinder motor can provide.
The Rebel 500 features a low-slung seat and a superb ergonomic configuration that suits shorter, average, and taller riders perfectly.
Its six-speed transmission system ensures smooth power delivery and an enjoyable riding experience. The braking system is adequate, but with the inclusion of an anti-lock braking system, the Rebel 500 is a top choice for novice riders.
Where to Rent a Honda Rebel 500?
A popular choice among novice riders, the Honda Rebel 500 is available for rent at various locations. You can rent and book your ride at the nearest EagleRider, Riders Share, or Twisted Road.
| Rental Service | Motorcycle Rental | Rental Location | Per Day Rent | Rental Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EagleRider | Rebel 500 | Belleville, New Jersey Foxboro, Massachusetts | $119 | Rent Here |
| Riders Share | 2021 Rebel 500 ABS | Fullerton, California | $32 | Rent Here |
| 2018 Rebel 500 ABS | Henderson, Nevada | $36 | Rent Here | |
| 2019 Rebel 500 | Hesperia, California | $40,80 | Rent Here | |
| Twisted Road | 2017 Rebel 500 | Irvine, California | $50 plus fees | Rent Here |
| 2020 Rebel 500 | Washington D.C. | $106 plus fees | Rent Here |
5.2 Harley Davidson Street 500
Photo Credit: @signaturehd
Many American youth who are into motorcycle riding usually get their motorcycle licenses to live out their dreams of riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle. If you can relate, then consider renting Harley’s best modern cruiser, the Harley Street 500.
Weighing only 500 lbs, the Harley Street 500 can easily pull off slow-speed maneuvers. Furthermore, this lightweight cruiser features a low-slung seat that inspires confidence in younger riders.
The Harley Street 500 is powered by a 494 cc V-twin liquid-cooled engine that provides smooth power delivery and adequate acceleration without sacrificing enjoyability and comfortability for novice riders.
Where to Rent a Harley Street 500?
Unfortunately, there are no listings for the Harley Street 500 at EagleRider - arguably the best place to find Harley Davidson rentals in the United States. However, you can rent this beginner-friendly motorbike from the following peer-to-peer motorcycle sharing marketplaces.
| Rental Service | Motorcycle Rental | Rental Location | Per Day Rent | Rental Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twisted Road | 2018 Harley Street 500 | Annapolis, Maryland | $72 plus fees | Rent Here |
| Riders Share | Harley Street 500 (Vivid Black) | San Jose, California | $69 | Rent Here |
5.3 Suzuki GX250R
Photo Credit: @webbikeworld
The Suzuki GSX250 is the perfect motorcycle for riders who prefer sporty vehicles. Built with a riding style and aesthetic finish similar to that of a heavyweight sports motorcycle with a larger displacement, the Suzuki GSX250 is a 250 cc motorcycle ideal for beginners.
Its excellent dual caliper braking setup coupled with an ABS makes it one of the safest and most reliable motorcycles for novice riders. Plus, it is lightweight and maneuverable, allowing you to speed down the road while dodging obstacles effortlessly.
Where to Rent a Suzuki GW250?
Find a Suzuki GW250 available for rent at the following platforms:
| Rental Service | Motorcycle Rental | Rental Location | Per Day Rent | Rental Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riders Share | 2018 Suzuki GSX250R | Eastvale, California | $38 | Rent Here |
| Twisted Road | 2019 Suzuki GSX250R | Cincinnati, Ohio | $50 | Rent Here |
5.4 Yamaha V-Star 250
Photo Credit: @quakercitymotorsport
A lightweight nimble cruiser, the Yamaha’s V-Star 250 is the perfect motorcycle for beginners. Its agile frame and low-slung seat coupled with a small reliable 250 cc engine provides a sense of familiarity for riders who have recently completed a MSF course since newer riders train by riding 250 cc motorcycles.
The V-Syar 250 can achieve a top speed of 85 mph, allowing riders to enjoy the thrill of riding a two-wheeler at a manageable pace. Due to its impressive fuel economy of 78 mph, it is recommended you rent the V-Star 250 if you plan to go on a trip lasting a couple of days.
Where to Rent a V-Star 250?
You can rent the V-Star 250 at Riders Share.
| Rental Service | Motorcycle Rental | Rental Location | Per Day Rent | Rental Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riders Share | 2008 Yamaha V-Star Silverado 250 | Austin, Texas | $43.20 | Rent Here |
5.5 Yamaha YZF R3
Photo Credit: @rideapart
The Yamaha YZF R3 is built with aggressive styling cues, a sporty character, and a sleek chassis. The Yamaha model offers an enjoyable riding experience and can produce considerable speed due to its twin-cylinder 321 cc engine. Although the engine has a small displacement, it can produce a high amount of torque due to each engine cylinder having four valves. The Yamaha YZF R3’s upright riding position, comfortable seat, adequate braking, and effortless handling make it a great beginner ride.
Where to Rent a Yamaha YZF R3?
You can rent the Yamaha YZF R3 at the following rental services.
| Rental Service | Motorcycle Rental | Rental Location | Per Day Rent | Rental Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EagleRider | Yamaha YZFR3 | Denver, Colorado | $111 | Rent Here |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | San Francisco, California | $89 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Las Vegas, Nevada | $89 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Kenner, Los Angeles | $111 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Salt Lake City, Utah | $111 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Burein, Washington | $89 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Hawthorne, California | $89 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Mesa, Arizona | $89 | Rent Here | |
| Yamaha YZFR3 | Des Plaines, Illinois | $111 | Rent Here | |
| Riders Share | Yamaha YZFR3 | Miami, Florida | $62,72 | Rent Here |
| Twisted Road | 2017 Yamaha YZFR3 | Los Angeles, California | $75 plus fees | Rent Here |
Related: 10 Super Sports Motorcycle Rentals You Need to Rent & Ride
6. Rent Motorcycle Safety Gear
The requirements for motorcycle safety gear different between each U.S. state. Typically, each state requires you to wear a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation as part of your motorcycle safety gear.
To learn about motorcycle helmet laws in each state, click here.
As a beginner, it is recommended you rent safety gear along with your motorcycle. The minimum motorcycle safety gear should include the following:
A DOT-approved Full Helmet (Mandatory)
It is mandatory to wear an approved motorcycle helmet if you are under a specific age limit depending on the state. Wearing a helmet will protect your head from being severely injured in case of a crash. Moreover, if the helmet has a visor, it will help keep debris from hitting your eyes.
Gloves (Optional)
Gloves protect your hands from getting burnt by the sun during hot weather and keep them warm in cold weather. Furthermore, they will protect your hands from getting bruised, scratched, and injuried during an accident.
Comfortable Footwear (Optional)
When riding a motorcycle, your feet need to be comfortable and covered up to your ankles. Wearing thick boots will prevent sharp objects from hitting your uncovered feet or ankles.
Full Riding Suit (Optional)
A full riding suit includes a leather jacket and thick long pants. Having the right clothing will help protect you in unfavorable weather and road conditions.
6.1 Where to Rent Safety Gear ?
Most rental services provide a DOT-certified helmet along with the motorcycle rental free of charge. Other rental services may charge up to $10 for a motorcycle helmet.
If you wish to rent other safety gear, confirm which ones are available with the rental agent. In case the rental services does not offer safety gear to rent, then you ,ay have to rent what you need from safety gear rental services like FeelLikeaPro or buy it from brands like AlphaTeamRacing.
7. Takeaway
Used beginner-friendly motorcycles are a great option to start your motorcycle journey, but until you manage to find the best deal possible, you cannot buy your own vehicle to practice on. This is where motorcycle rental services come in.
With several options available at affordable rates, you can easily search and find a used motorcycle rental that you can use for your daily riding practice. You can experiment with different bikes, becoming familiar with them and learning which ones best suit you.
No matter where you live, finding a beginner-friendly motorcycle rental is possible. So begin your motorcycle journey!
Related: Top 10 Motorcycle Rentals & Tours in the USA - Adventure Touring Like Never Before!
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