Beginning somewhere
Many bikers today got their start on small 50cc or 125cc two-stroke machines that couldn't have cost more than R3000 back in the day. Those small displacement bikes may be a thing of the past, but the process of starting off on a small displacement machine still stands, although most of these bikes now start at 250cc.
Related: What is the best beginner motorcycle for new riders in South Africa?
The question of affordable entry-level bikes arises more often than you might think, so we have checked out what's available and found the five machines that are most often recommended by professionals when it comes to buying a bike under R 120 000.
How do I choose the right size and type of motorcycle for my needs?
TVS Apache 310 RR
Indian automaker TVS is one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers in the world and has even been tasked by BMW to build its GS310. The Apache is a well-built entry-level sports bike perfect for beginners and won't break the bank.
R 79 999
Yamaha MT03
The MT03 is Yamaha's entry into its MT range of naked street machines. Incredibly powerful and a blast to ride, it is the kind of bike you can keep forever.
R 115 950
KTM 390 Duke
Another entry in an OEM's full naked street bike lineup, the KTM 390 Duke is a bike meant to be ridden hard and tossed about!
R 115 999
Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
The Gixxer is every high school kid's dream. The SF250 from Japan is a great first stop for budding riders.
R60 250
Honda CRF300RLA
The CRF300 is a dual-sport vehicle that handles dirt and tar equally well. The RLA is a Rallye derivative with distinct Dakar styling that will leave you feeling like you can take on the African continent.
R103 999
