6 Best Beginner Stunt Bikes for Learning Motorcycle Stunts

Venturing into a motorcycle stunt riding career is not only a question of courage, but it is also a matter of picking the right stunt bike. A stunt bike that is the most beginner-friendly will not be the most powerful one. However, it will be the most forgiving and the most flexible. It is a learning platform based on learning by repetition and by drops.

This guide lists the 6 best beginner stunt bikes for learning motorcycle stunts. It also pinpoints the changes required and the riding mentality you should develop to build your stunt riding skills in a safe and effective manner.

Here comes the most common question: “Can any motorcycle be used as a stunt bike?” The answer is a ‘No’. The quickest way to get discouraged from stunt riding and to incur costly repairs is to start with an unprepared street bike or a bike that is not built for stunt riding. A correct entry-level stunt bike that is prepared for the purpose puts emphasis on 3 main factors:

1. Controllable power.

2. Lightweight design.

3. Longevity.

Big, cumbersome bikes are difficult to ride slowly, and they are painful to retrieve when one falls. An interactive learning environment allows you to focus on the technique, as opposed to wrestling with the machine. Motorcycle stunt riding is not a speed or show-off affair, as the seasoned riders observe, but the art of controlling the bike in the most severe circumstances.

The Honda Grom is a mini bike, having a daring nature. The place of this mini bike in the world of stunts is quite justified. It is lightweight, fun, and nearly too easy to ride.

The Grom has a 124cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, which is not going to make it in any speed race, but that is not the point of the Grom. The size of the Grom is one of its greatest attributes as a beginner stunt bike. It has only 230 lbs, and this implies that it can be easily moved around.

The low seating position of only 30 inches allows a majority of riders to have both their feet firmly on the ground. This provides you with loads of control in case you are experimenting with new feats and tricks.

The engine installed in the Grom is small, but it doesn’t lack in torque to perform wheelies. The five-speed gearbox, along with the clutch, is quite easy to use and smooth, ensuring riders have no issues managing acceleration and torque when needed. Moreover, the bike offers an upright stance, making it quite easy to balance.

The other top advantage of the Honda Grom as a beginner stunt bike is that it is cheap to repair. The parts are also readily available and cheap. If you drop the bike, you can have the damaged part restored without incurring a huge expense. The robust build implies that it can take the beat, and you can always continue.

The Grom also boasts a massive fan base where tips and tricks, plus mods, are shared over the internet. You will get loads of help and support as you study. Cage kits, crash bars, and loads of add-ons can all help to protect your bike as you practice.

The Honda Grom is hard to beat if you want to begin on a small stunt bike and develop your skills. It is not only a beginner-level stunt bike, but a fun and reliable ride partner for even skilled stunt riders.

The KTM 390 Duke is even better with more power while still being beginner-friendly. This naked bike is powered by a single-cylinder 373 cc engine. It delivers about 43 hp. It may seem like a lot for a novice, but the Duke is light and delivers smooth power, making it easy to control.

The 390 Duke weighs around 365 lbs, making it light enough to do aunts. The seat height is 32 inches, which is suitable for most riders. The bike also offers quick, stable handling and excellent brakes. This comes in handy when you are learning new stunt tricks.

The 390 Duke also comes with modern features. The power band is also good and linear. This implies that the power is smooth, not abrupt. When it comes to wheelies and other tricks, the smooth power is far easier to deal with in comparison to jerky power delivery. You are able to sense what the bike is doing and make readjustments easily.

The KTM 390 Duke is also well reputed to be tough. KTM produces bikes that can be used in a rough manner, and the Duke is not an exception. The frame is robust, and the parts are durable. KTM components are also relatively accessible when something needs to be replaced.

One thing that is worth mentioning is that the Duke is more powerful than the other bikes on this list. This is not a bad thing as long as you are willing to have space to grow. However, it also implies that you should be slightly more cautious as you learn. You only have to have respect for power, and the 390 Duke can teach you a lot as a stunt rider.

The Yamaha MT-03 is another very popular naked bike that is ideal for adding some style to your stunts. This bike has a 321 cc parallel-twin engine that produces around 42 hp. The twin-cylinder engine provides the MT-03 with a nice, smooth feel, unlike single-cylinder bikes.

The MT-03 weighs 370 lbs yet still has a solid feel. The seat height is 30.7 inches, which is low enough for most riders to feel planted. The bike is also quick to respond, thanks to its short wheelbase. This makes the MT-03 excellent for stunts that involve fast moves and quick changes of direction.

The Yamaha MT-03’s engine is also reputed to be smooth and easy to operate. The power is tuned in a way that is easy to predict, which is useful if youare trying to hold a wheelie or execute other tricks. The 6-speed gearbox gives you plenty of options to find the best gear for each stunt.

Yamaha built the MT-03 to target beginner riders. The controls are conveniently located and easy to operate. The clutch pull is easy and not too grabby, and the brakes have good feel, too. Such little things make such a big difference when you are learning, and you do not have to struggle with your bike, fighting it.

The Yamaha MT-03 is a good choice for riders who would like to have a bike that can be used in both strunt and normal riding. It is a genuine dual-purpose machine that will not disappoint at either of the two functions

The Suzuki DR-Z400SM is somewhat unlike the rest of the bikes on this list. It is a supermoto, meaning that it is based on a dirt bike, but configured to ride on the streets. This provides it with certain qualities that are very good in stunt riding.

The DR-Z400SM has a 398cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces around 40 hp. The strength is strong and can be handled easily. It weighs 322 lbs, making it one of the lightest bikes on this list.

The DR-Z400SM has a tall seat height of 35 inches, which may sound like a disadvantage. However, the slim build allows reaching the ground without much trouble.

The long wheel travel suspension system installed in the Suzuki DR-Z400SM is what makes it unique for stunt riding. It allows you lots of room to play with when you are landing jumps or performing wheelies. The bike has the ability to absorb hits that would have bottomed out other bikes.

The DR-Z400SM has supermoto wheels and tires, which provide the bike with a lot of grip on the road. The brakes are powerful, and the bike turns on a dime. The bike offers an upright riding position, which is ideal for stunts, ensuring great control and easy weight shifts.

The DR-Z400SM is also well-reputed to be a bulletproof bike. These bikes are able to receive a great beating and still continue to run. The parts are inexpensive, and the basic build implies easy repairs. This is the reason why many stunt riders opt to ride the Suzuki DR-Z400SM.

One must know that the DR-Z400SM has an outdated design. It does not have advanced tech features, such as fuel injection or an electric dashboard. However, to most riders, this basic arrangement is part of its attraction.

When you are in need of a bike that is rough, tough, fun, and good for stunts, the DR-Z400SM is one that has to make it to your shortlist.

The Kawasaki Z125 Pro is regarded as the biggest competitor of the Honda Grom. This mini bike is something that leaves its own mark on the table and, at the same time, has much to share with the Grom in terms of features that are highly appreciated by stunt riders.

The Z125 Pro has a 125 cc engine, which is sufficient to do wheelies and other simple tricks. It is a lightweight bike as it weighs around 225 lbs, which makes it one of the lightest on this list. The seat height of 31.7 inches is low and makes it easy to operate. Riding the Z125 Pro is fun as a rider; you will desire more to toss around this bike.

The Grom looks a bit more mature than the Z125 Pro. It is more mean and has sharper lines. However, do not be deceived by the looks; the Z125 Pro is also as enjoyable and easy to ride as the Grom. The controls are soft, the clutch is smooth, and the entire package is well assembled.

Kawasaki had provided the Z125 Pro with some good features. The bike even has some storage under the seat, which can be useful for storing tools. The parts for the Z125 Pro are also readily available and relatively inexpensive.

Kawasaki dealership network is also good, and there is a large online community where riders exchange tips and tricks. Cage kits, crash bars, and other mods to save your bike are available to you in the meantime.

The Z125 Pro is also well reputed to be reliable. Kawasaki builds good bikes, and this small one is not an exception. It can be ridden with minimum care, and this implies that it will spend more time on the road and less time in the garage.

The Z125 Pro is a great option for those who are beginners and need a small, lightweight bike that is easy to ride. It is all fun, tough, and willing to get you to master your first stunts.

The Yamaha YZF-R3 completes our list as the most sport-based one. It is a real sports bike that has full fairings and a forward lean. Although it may not appear as the ideal stunt performer initially, there is much in favor of the R3.

The R3 has a 321 cc twin-engine that produces around 42 hp. It is the same engine that is installed in the MT-03, but in a different frame and body. Weighing 373 lbs, it is heavier than some of its rivals, but not excessively heavy to do any stunt work. The seat height measures 30.7 inches, which is quite pleasant and low.

The balance of the R3 makes it work with stunts. The bike is also ready and steady, which is useful when you are attempting to balance a wheelie or performing other tricks. The engine is smooth and has good power in the entire rev range. The six-speed gearbox is smooth and convenient.

The brakes installed in the R3 are quite good and reliable, and this is crucial when doing stunts, such as stoppies, where one requires a strong stopping power. The suspension system is also easy to adjust and has a good feel. The bike also steers exceptionally well, and it is amusing to ride it on the road and when you are training for the stunts.

The fairings are one of the things to consider with the R3. They are so nice and efficient when riding at high speed. A lot of stunt riders take off the fairings or substitute them with counterfeits. This allows them to train without fear.

Yamaha also designed the R3 as an excellent entry-level sports bike, which it is. The controls are user-friendly, and the bike appears amazing, too. You can perform stunts with it, take it for track days, or have fun on your local roads.

The Yamaha YZF-R3 is the most appropriate on this list for riders who desire a sport bike with the ability to perform stunts as well. It is fast, entertaining, and long-lasting.

Your body and your bike must be ready before you try your first stunt. The bike mods below are not luxuries; they are necessities if you plan to learn motorcycle stunts:

This is a welded skeleton of steel that shields the engine, frame, and radiator during a fall. It is your very first buy.

The left handlebar has a second lever, which operates the rear brake. This is your safety valve when doing wheelies, and it lets you balance the bike when standing.

This is a rear subframe bar that safeguards the tail section in case you take the bike beyond the balance point.

Stunt riders normally add teeth to the rear sprocket. This reduced the gearing, and thus the front wheel can be lifted at lower speeds, which are more controlled.

The case savers and axle sliders are used to cover the engine covers and fork/axle parts, which can be vulnerable in slide cases. They can save thousands of dollars in real crash damage.

If you choose to learn stunts on your motorbike, you will have to be more concerned about wearing the best protective gear for motorcycle stunt riding. Make sure to never compromise on:

The armor gear you use must be tailor-made for motorcycling and provide adequate abrasion resistance. The gear must have added shield for shoulders, knees, elbows, back, and hips.

Riding gloves must be thick to ensure your palm remains safe even in case of sliding during a crash. They should shield your palm and knuckles. Boots must have ankle support.

Make sure to remember and stick to this motto: “All The Gear, All The Time” in all your practice sessions.

It is a disaster if you choose to start with a wheelie. Risk reduction among professional stunt bikers is achieved through structured, progressive training.

Train only in a huge, vacant parking lot or in a controlled, traffic-free place. Practicing stunts on your bike must not be done on public roads or other public places.

Get a feel of the slow speed. Start with practicing figure-eights, clutch feathering, and the fine art of using the rear-brake before going on to the wheelies.

Start using a smooth roll-on throttle in first gear, lift the front wheel by a few inches, then drop it using the rear brake. This is what you learn first as a beginner.

It is the basic stunt move. It consists of a rapid clutch engagement with the throttle and simultaneous wheel lifting at a reduced speed. Repeat the same to get to know the sweet spot.

Your initial attempts at using the clutch-up should be limited to warming up the wheel and putting it down instantly with the handbrake. This develops muscle memory to save a wheelie that goes a long way back.

The camera needs to be set up to record yourself practicing and attempting stunts. The ability to observe your posture, bar input, and foot positioning is a highly valuable learning tool.

Not doing basic balance exercises because you are in a rush to perform high-skill maneuvers is a warning sign. Most of the early crashes are a result of this impatience. Skills can be acquired safely in a day of professional training or even a day with a coach.

The decision will be based on the following steps:

Have you ever used a clutch? Can you balance a crawl? If the answer is no, your best friend will be a 125cc Grom or similar.

The price of the bike is only the start. Add $1,000 or more to cover necessities for motorbike stunting, such as the cage, handbrake, or 12 o’clock bar. Add another $1,000, or maybe more, to buy highly reliable head-to-toe equipment.

If you are just starting out to perform stunts, you will likely drop your bike many times. Therefore, a used bike for learning stunts is a financially wiser option. While buying, focus more on mechanical soundness than on cosmetics.

Before you buy your first stunt bike, make sure to confirm if the particular model’s parts are easily available and are affordable, too. If the parts aren’t easily available, don’t buy that bike. You can easily confirm this online.

There is a vast community of riders who love performing stunts on their bikes. You can easily find such local groups and riding clubs online. These communities are a perfect way to start learning stunts. They can teach you everything from how to practice stunts to how to repair your bike.

When choosing your best beginner stunt bike for learning motorcycle stunts, avoid heavily crashed projects. Make sure to examine the bike properly before buying. Check for the suspected frames, chassis, and engine. Verify if the bike has a questionable repair history.

Don’t go for the overpowered 1-Liter engine sports bikes. They are not at all safe for stunt riding. As a beginner, you will not be able to manage such explosive power delivery and weight.

The only bike you used to commute on a daily basis should not be used or modified for stunts. You will damage the only bike you use daily, risking your safety while riding. It is because the wear and tear on a stunt bike is greater than on a bike you use for normal riding.

The selection of the ideal beginner stunt bike is a question of what suits you. The Honda Grom and the Kawasaki Z125 Pro are good if you are interesting something small and light. The KTM 390 Duke and the Yamaha MT-03 have more power in a naked bike style. These are stylish, standard bike options for both normal use and bike stunting. The Suzuki DR-Z400SM is a supermoto bike, which seems quite an odd one in this best beginner stunt bikes list. The Yamaha R3 is the only pure sports bike on this list capable of doing stunts.

All these bikes have their unique pros and cons. However, they all possess the main features of a good beginner stunt bike. They are portable, convenient to carry, and strong enough to sustain the stunt learning process. The power these bikes offer is enough for learners, and parts are readily available when required.

The most appropriate motorbike for stunts is one that fits your size and skills. Consider what is most important to you. Do you want the lightest and smallest bike? Or do you want a bit more power? Are you concerned with the modern features? Or, are you happy with the simple, basic bike?

It is important to keep in mind that the bike is merely a means. What counts is your skills, practice, and devotion. You can learn how to do stunts with the right bike and the right attitude, and become one of the riders who make it look easy.