The available manufacturer pricing confirms several new U.S. motorcycles with engines under 500cc, but it does not establish a complete, reliable list of the ten cheapest. Here is a verified shortlist with model years, exact displacements and comparable MSRP-plus-destination figures where available. These are advertised prices, not out-the-door quotes.
Verified new motorcycles under 500cc and their published prices
The comparison below uses manufacturer-listed MSRP and destination where both figures are available. Royal Enfield’s listed prices exclude destination and handling, so those bikes cannot be ranked on the same delivered-price basis from the published figures here. Taxes, title, registration and dealer charges are not included. Displacement—not the model badge—determines whether a motorcycle meets the cutoff.
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| Motorcycle and model year | Displacement | Published price basis | ABS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Enfield Bullet 350 Standard Black or Standard Maroon (2026) | 349cc | $4,499 MSRP; destination and handling excluded. Royal Enfield USA: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Royal Enfield Bullet 350 Black Gold (2026) | 349cc | $4,799 MSRP; destination and handling excluded. Royal Enfield USA: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Honda CB300R (current listing) | 286cc | $4,499 base MSRP + $600 destination = $5,099 listed total MSRP. Honda Powersports: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Fireball (2026) | 349cc | $4,699 MSRP; destination and handling excluded. Royal Enfield USA: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Stellar (2026) | 349cc | $4,799 MSRP; destination and handling excluded. Royal Enfield USA: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Supernova (2026) | 349cc | $4,899 MSRP; destination and handling excluded. Royal Enfield USA: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Yamaha MT-03 (2026) | 321cc | $4,999 MSRP + $650 destination = $5,649 before other charges. Yamaha Motorsports USA: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Kawasaki Ninja 500 non-ABS (2026) | 451cc | $5,399 MSRP + $650 destination = $6,049 before other charges. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.: product page. | Not included in this trim |
| Kawasaki Z500 ABS (2026) | 451cc | $5,699 MSRP + $650 destination = $6,349 before other charges. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.: product page. | Included |
| Kawasaki Ninja 500 ABS (2026) | 451cc | $5,799 MSRP + $650 destination = $6,449 before other charges. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.: product page. | Included |
| Honda CB500 Hornet (current listing) | 471cc | $5,899 base MSRP + $600 destination = $6,499 listed total MSRP. Honda Powersports: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
| Honda CBR500R (current listing) | 471cc | $6,399 base MSRP + $600 destination = $6,999 listed total MSRP. Honda Powersports: product page. | Not stated on cited page |
This is a verified sample, not a definitive ranking of the ten cheapest motorcycles. The figures are not fully comparable: Royal Enfield’s published prices omit destination and handling, while the other totals above add the stated destination charge. Dealer pricing, taxes, title, license, registration and other fees can change what a buyer pays.
How to read the price list
Compare the same price basis
For a practical quote comparison, ask dealers for the same itemized out-the-door figure for each bike, including destination, setup or freight, documentation charges, taxes and registration. If comparing advertised prices instead, keep base MSRP separate from MSRP plus destination; do not treat either as the final purchase cost.
#1 Best Overall
- Engine Type (V-Twin, Air-Cooled, EFI) – A high-performance V-Twin engine with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for smooth power delivery, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions.
- Brakes (Front/Rear - Disc/Disc) – Equipped with dual hydraulic disc brakes for powerful, precise stopping capability in all road conditions.
- Fuel Economy (87 MPG) – Exceptional fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
- Dual Chrome Exhaust – A classic twin-pipe exhaust system that not only enhances aesthetics but also delivers a deep, aggressive sound signature.
- New Digital & Analog Display – A combination of modern digital precision with a classic analog touch, offering a stylish and functional instrument cluster.
Check the exact model year and trim
Price and equipment can differ by year, color or trim. The Meteor page also offers 2027 selections, so verify the selected model year and version before using its 2026 Fireball, Stellar or Supernova price. Kawasaki says its pricing can change, so confirm current figures with the manufacturer or dealer.
Use engine displacement, not the badge
“500” does not necessarily mean an engine is 500cc. Kawasaki lists the Ninja 500 and Z500 at 451cc; Honda lists its 500 models at 471cc. Both fit a strict under-500cc cutoff. Confirm the listed displacement when applying that limit.
Rank #2
- Engine Type: Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Air-Cooled, Fuel-Injected – Built for durability and consistent performance.
- Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) – Optimized fuel delivery for maximum efficiency.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual Sport Clutch – Seamless gear shifts for ultimate control.
- Brakes: Front & Rear Hydraulic Disc – Precision stopping power for enhanced safety.
- Weight: 295 lbs (Net) | 365 lbs (Gross) – Lightweight yet robust for peak performance.
Why this is not a top-ten ranking
The manufacturer pages establish prices and displacements for the motorcycles shown, but they do not establish a complete inventory of current new U.S. models or prove that these are the ten lowest-priced. A reliable ranking would also need current model-year availability, prices and destination charges for other manufacturers and smaller-displacement bikes. Kawasaki’s offers page lists a Ninja 300 starting MSRP of $4,999, but does not cleanly establish its model year or whether it is currently offered as a new model; it should not be counted as a current new-bike candidate without confirmation. Kawasaki’s page also notes that base MSRP excludes destination, options, taxes, title, license and dealer charges: current offers.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Powerful 200cc Automatic Engine: This automatic Venom X19 motorcycle packs a punch with its robust 200cc engine, delivering ample power for an exhilarating ride.
- Sport Design: With its eye-catching curves and bold color scheme, this motorcycle exudes a modern and sporty aesthetic that turns heads wherever it goes.
- Smooth Automatic Transmission: Enjoy a hassle-free riding experience with the convenient automatic transmission, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the ride.
- Reliable Braking System: Stay in control with the motorcycle's responsive and efficient braking system, ensuring your safety on the road.
- Comfortable Seating: The ergonomically designed seat and upgraded rear shock provides optimal comfort for both the rider and passenger, making long journeys a pleasure. Blue Performance Shock Available!
Rank #4
- CAFE RACER STYLE
- ADVANCED NBF GENERATION II EFI ENGINE
- MODERN DESIGN
- Dimensions Length: 80 inches Width: 20 inches Height: 42 inches Seat Height: 30.7 inches
- Full-Size Motorcycle | Street Legal | Road & Highway Legal
Rank #3
- Entry-Level Sport Bike Design: The HHH Upgraded 250cc Motorcycle GTX 250 with EFI features a 6 speed manual transmission, hydraulic disc brakes (dual front), and 17-inch wheels with street tires
- Altitude Adaptability with EFI: Electronic Fuel Injection automatically compensates for changes in altitude by sensing air temperature and density, eliminating the need to manually adjust carburetors jetting at different elevations
- Enhanced Throttle Response: By delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber in response to the rider's input, the EFI system eliminates throttle lag associated with carburetors, resulting in smoother and more instantaneous acceleration with dual front headlights and sporty styling
- Zongshen Engine with EFI Technology: HHH GTX 250 is powered by a Zongshen-brand engine and uses electronic fuel injection for better performance and fuel economy with high power output
- Easier Starting System: The EFI system optimizes fuel delivery for ambient conditions, ensuring reliable and easy engine starts, especially in cold weather, without the need for a manual choke
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
