LAMS bike buyer’s guide

What’s a great first LAMS motorcycle? Or scooter – we don’t discriminate here at bikesales! Fact is, under the LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) system in place in states and territories around the country, there’s more choice for a first motorcycle than ever before – and that’s both good and bad. 

Good, because there’s something to suit all tastes – sportsbike, cruiser, adventure bike, naked, scooter – the list goes on. Bad, because – well, because there’s so much choice picking the right motorcycle for you can all become a bit overwhelming. 

Each different category has its pluses and minuses. Sportsbikes look the biz and place an emphasis on performance and thrills, but if you go over on one – even a small oopsie when pushing it around in the garage – you'll be up for a hefty repair bill for those broken, cracked or scuffed fairing panels. 

Cruisers are laid-back, unhurried, and have a low seat height, but often don’t have the legroom for taller riders. Naked bikes – and adventure bikes – have an upright ride position and are generally super easy to control. And scooters are even easier to ride, as they don’t involve a clutch – just a ‘twist-n-go' auto transmission. 

Here are some key questions to ask yourself before making any purchase..

Does the bike match my intended usage? 

A 50cc moped might be great for commuting in the CBD, but it’s not going to safely handle day trips in the country. A cruiser may not have the comfort for longer trips, as their feet-forward ride position tends to place pressure at the base of the spine. And if dirt roads are on the agenda, you’ll want to gravitate more towards adventure bikes, or even trail/enduro bikes if you want to tackle things like jumps and tight singletrack. 

Related reading:
FAQ: Which learner bike is best?
Adventure bike buyer's guide, below 400cc

Is it the right size for me? 

The seat height is really important here, but the style of the bike matters too. Bikes with a wide tank and mid-section will splay your legs more, making it that bit harder to get your foot down at the lights. Generally speaking, the heavier and taller the bike, the trickier it will be for a novice to manage. Check the bike’s weight; it’s the ‘wet’ weight that is the more relevant one. This is how much the bike weighs when it’s fully fueled, and has all the other fluids it needs (oil, water, brake fluid) to operate. 

Related reading:
FAQ: Which learner bike is best?

Can I afford it? 

There’s the bike’s ticket price, but don’t forget the cash you’ll need to cover all the other stuff. You’ll need a helmet, riding jacket, gloves, boots and riding jeans (ie Kevlar-lined, not regular jeans) at a minimum, plus wet weather gear (an oversuit or plastic jacket/pants) and gear to suit colder weather if you live down south. You might want a disc lock or padlock and chain to secure it, and don’t forget insurance. Most new owners will be looking at a fully comprehensive policy on a brand-new bike, and for learner riders – especially those aged under 25 – that can be expensive. 

Related reading:
Advice: Winter road gear guide
Advice: Wet weather gear explained

New or used? 

If all the above is starting to give you or your bank account a conniption, maybe second-hand is the go rather than new. You’ll pay less, though you’ll miss out on that new-bike glow – and the full factory warranty that comes with it. Buying second-hand comes with its own host of pitfalls for new players, but fear not – we’ve got plenty of good info what to look out for. 

Related reading: 
Advice: How to buy second-hand
Buying second-hand amid COVID-19 

And once you’ve digested all that, here’s a snapshot of just some of the great hardware currently on offer, complete with key specs and pricing. There are so many LAMS options these days we can’t possibly list all of them, so here we’re presenting some top options (in no particular order) across five main categories. 

See your nearest dealer or manufacturer website for more information, and bear in mind that stocks of some models are in short supply thanks to COVID’s ongoing disruption of the supply chain. 

Have you already got your first motorcycle? What are its pros and cons? Be sure to tells us why in the comments field below – you'll be helping inform others just about to take the plunge!

Naked 

Kawasaki Z400

The low-down: Introduced in 2019, the Kawasaki Z400 is light, nimble, and easy to handle. The proven parallel-twin engine can trace its history back decades, while features include an easy, upright riding position, a slipper clutch and quad LED headlights. 
Engine: 399cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 45.4hp (33.4kW) at 10,000rpm, 38Nm at 8000rpm 
Weight: 167kg (wet) 
Seat height: 785mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $7994 ride away 
Related reading: Kawasaki Z400 Review
View the Kawasaki Z400 in New Bike Showroom
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Yamaha MT-07LA 

The low-down: A huge favourite on the LAMS scene, Yamaha’s MT-07LA was updated for 2021 with a Euro 5 compliant engine, larger front brake rotors, new styling, LED lighting and refreshed instrumentation. It’s got plenty of poke too, without being intimidating. 
Engine: 655cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 52.1hp (38.3kW) at 8000rpm, 57.5Nm at 4000rpm 
Weight: 184kg 
Seat height: 805mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $12,399 ride away 
Related reading: 2021 Yamaha MT Range Launch Review
View the Yamaha MT-07LA in New Bike Showroom
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KTM 390 Duke 

The low-down: KTM has sold a gazillion 390 Dukes since 2013 and for good reason: this light and lively single-cylinder model wraps an edgey design around some impressive performance. It’s a great little commuter and a handy weekend sports tool in one.  
Engine: 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 43.5hp (32kW) at 9500rpm, 37Nm at 7250rpm 
Weight: 149kg (dry) 
Seat height: 830mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $7885 ride away 
Related reading: 2017 KTM Duke Launch Review
View the KTM 390 Duke in New Bike Showroom
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Suzuki SV650 

The low-down: The Suzuki SV650 has been around since 2000 and the SV650 LAMS continues to serve as a great platform on which novices can build their skills. A bulletproof and torquey V-twin engine combine with a smart, stylish exterior that has stood the test of time. 
Engine: 645cc liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 47.6hp (35kW) at 8500rpm, 56.5Nm at 4000rpm 
Weight: 198kg (wet) 
Seat height: 785mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $10,490 ride away 
Related reading: 2017 Suzuki SV650 Launch Review
View the Suzuki SV650 in New Bike Showroom
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Triumph Trident 660 

The low-down: An all-new model for 2021, the Triumph Trident 660 is a great performer with plenty of tech that brings a new, lower-priced entry point to the wider Triumph range. 
Engine: 660cc liquid-cooled triple-cylinder 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 53hp (39.8kW) at 8750rpm, 59Nm at 5000rpm 
Weight: 189kg (wet) 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $12,690 ride away 
Related reading: 2021 Triumph Trident 660 Launch Review
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KTM 390 Adventure 

The low-down: A sibling for the KTM 390 Duke naked bike, the 390 Adventure adds longer-travel suspension and off-road electronics to produce a capable, broad-focus machine with some reasonable off-road potential. 
Engine: 373cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: 6-speed 
Output: 44hp (32kW) at 9000rpm, 37Nm at 7000rpm 
Weight: 158kg (dry) 
Seat height: 855mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: $9970 ride away 
Related reading: 2020 KTM 390 Adventure Review 
View the KTM 390 Adventure in New Bike Showroom
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BMW G 310 GS 

The low-down: The dual-purpose brother of the G 310 R, BMW’s G 310 GS has adventure bike styling and longer-travel suspension. Like all the adventure models presented here, it’s more about on-road commuting and exploration, with some dirt-road potential thrown into the mix. 
Engine: 313cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: 6-speed 
Output: 34hp (25kW) at 9250rpm, 28Nm at 7500rpm 
Weight: 175kg (wet) 
Seat height: 835mm (820mm and 850mm also available) 
Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $8462 ride away 
Related reading: LAMS feast: KTM RC 390 and BMW G 310 GS
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Benelli TRK 502 

The low-down: Launched in 2018, the Benelli TRK 502 is manufactured in China but designed and styled in Italy. The TRK 502 is essentially a road bike with adventure bike styling, but the TRK 502X builds on the platform with wire-spoke wheels and an upswept exhaust for an extra $500. 
Engine: 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 48hp (35kW) at 8500rpm, 46Nm at 6000rpm 
Weight: 235kg (wet) 
Seat height: 800mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: $9390 ride away 
Related reading: 2018 Benelli TRK 502 Launch Review
View the Benelli TRK 502 in New Bike Showroom
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Honda CB500X 

The low-down: Around since 2013, the Honda CB500X takes the brand’s versatile 471cc parallel-twin and slots it into an adventure bike package with a road focus. Light, agile and comfortable, it’s a proven package for commuting and city escapes. 
Engine: 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 47.6hp (35kW) at 8600rpm, 43Nm at 6500rpm 
Weight: 197kg (wet) 
Seat height: 835mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $10,458 ride away 
Related reading: 2019 Honda CB500X Review
View the Honda CB500X in New Bike Showroom
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Kawasaki Versys 650L 

The low-down: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has been with us since 2010, and remains a popular choice for its distinctive styling, solid build quality, comfort, and low-down torque. 
Engine: 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 53hp (39kW) at 7800rpm, 57Nm at 3800rpm 
Weight: 216kg (wet) 
Seat height: 840mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $12,376 ride away 
View the Kawasaki Versys 650L in New Bike Showroom
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Sportsbike 

Honda CBR500R 

The low-down: The smallest of Honda’s sportsbike range, the CBR500R is a bit lighter, lower and cheaper than its closest sibling, the CBR650R, while it’s powered by a parallel-twin rather than an in-line four-cylinder, which helps keep service costs lower. Think FireBlade looks, with learner-friendly performance. 
Engine: 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed transmission 
Output: 35kW (47hp) at 8600rpm, 43Nm at 6500rpm 
Weight: 192kg (wet) 
Seat height: 785mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $10,561 ride away 
Related reading: 2019 Honda CBR500R Review 
View the Honda CBR500R in New Bike Showroom
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CFMOTO 300SR 

The low-down: Chinese brand CFMOTO is pumping out the new models these days, and the CFMOTO 300SR delivers a very light and manageable sports package at a very compelling price. It’s backed by a three-year factory warranty, too. 
Engine: 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 29.1hp (21.4kW) at 8750rpm, 25.3Nm at 7250rpm 
Weight: 165kg (wet) 
Seat height: 780mm 
Warranty: 36 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: $5790 ride away 
Related reading: 2021 CFMOTO 300SR Review
View the CFMOTO 300SR in New Bike Showroom 
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Kawasaki Ninja 650L 

The low-down: This well-established model brings big-bore styling to Kawasaki’s middleweight sportsbike model, along with niceties like a slipper clutch and TFT instrumentation. It’s powered by the same parallel-twin also found in the Kawasaki Versys 650L (see above). 
Engine: 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 51hp (37.8kW) at 6500rpm, 59Nm at 6500rpm 
Weight: 192kg (wet) 
Seat height: 790mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $12,273 ride away 
Related reading: 2017 Kawasaki Ninja 650L Launch Review
View the Kawasaki Ninja 650L in New Bike Showroom
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Suzuki GSX-R125 

The low-down: Built in Suzuki’s Indonesian production facility, this little scalpel is feather light and has the looks of bigger ‘Gixxers’ to boot. Don’t fixate on the low output – especially for smaller riders, this bike is a heap of fun. 
Engine: 124cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 15hp (11kW) at 10,000rpm, 11.5Nm at 8000rpm 
Weight: 134kg (wet) 
Seat height: 785mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $5190 ride away 
Related reading: 2018 Suzuki GSX-R125 Launch Review 
View the Suzuki GSX-R125 in New Bike Showroom
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Yamaha YZF-R3 

The low-down: Whether it’s for racing or road riding, the enduring YZF-R3 is a sweet little handler with sharp R1-inspired lines.  
Engine: 321cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 41.4hp (30.9kW) at 10,750rpm, 29.6Nm at 9000rpm 
Weight: 167kg (wet) 
Seat height: 780mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $8149 ride away 
Related reading: 2019 Yamaha YZF-R3 Launch Review
View the Yamaha YZF-R3 in New Bike Showroom
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Cruiser 

Honda CMX500 

The low-down: Arriving in 2018, the Thai-built Honda CMX500 is powered by the same parallel-twin as the CBR500R and CB500X, and has a super-low seat height coupled with relaxed cruiser ergonomics and styling, plus LED lighting and a slipper clutch. 
Engine: 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 45.5hp (33.5kW) at 8500rpm, 44.6Nm at 6000rpm 
Weight: 191kg (wet) 
Seat height: 690mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $9690 ride away 
Related reading: Updated Honda CMX500 arrives in Australia
View the Honda CMX500 in New Bike Showroom
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Yamaha XV250 Virago 

The low-down: Yamaha’s XV250 cruiser has been around in one form or another for donks. It’s stood the test of time, and it’s a simple (like carburettor simple!), no-fuss learner cruiser option. 
Engine: 249cc air-cooled V-twin 
Transmission: Five-speed 
Output: 23hp (17.1kW) at 8000rpm, 11.7Nm at 6000rpm 
Weight: 147kg (wet) 
Seat height: 685mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $8599 ride away 
View the Yamaha XV250 Virago in New Bike Showroom
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Benelli 502C 

The low-down: Benelli’s futuristic-looking 502C boasts an LED headlight and a large 21lt fuel tank. It’s also got plenty of poke and it handles nicely, and it’s a previous recipient of the Bikesales Bike of the Year Cruiser (LAMS) award. 
Engine: 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 48hp (35kW) at 8500rpm, 45Nm at 5000rpm 
Weight: 170kg (dry) 
Seat height: 750mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: $9990 ride away 
Related reading: 2019 Benelli 502C Launch Review
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Retro 

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 

The low-down: Classic ‘60s looks, a great price, and it goes and handles well too – there's a reason this bike has featured in the Bikesales Bike of the Year several times since its launch in 2018. Don’t forget the Royal Enfield Continental GT either, which is the same bike but with café racer styling. 
Engine: 648cc air/oil-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 47hp (34.6kW) at 7100rpm, 52Nm at 4000rpm 
Weight: 202kg (dry) 
Seat height: 804mm 
Warranty: 36 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $9990 ride away 
Related reading: 2018 Royal Enfield 650 twin Launch Review
View the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 in New Bike Showroom
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Royal Enfield Meteor 350 

The low-down: The Royal Enfield retros keep coming with the Meteor 350, the recent overhaul of what was previously known as the Rumbler 350. This is a single, as opposed to a twin, and the Meteor is available in three variants: Fireball, Stellar, and Supernova. 
Engine: 349cc air/oil-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: Five-speed 
Output: 20.2hp at 6100rpm, 27Nm at 4000rpm 
Weight: 191kg (wet) 
Seat height: 765mm 
Warranty: 36 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $7690 ride away 
Related reading: 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Launch Review
View the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 in New Bike Showroom 
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Yamaha XSR700 

The low-down: This is the LAMS-friendly version of Yamaha’s XSR900 retro, and powered by a 655cc parallel-twin (like the MT-07LA), instead of the full-biscuit 889cc triple. It’s a ripper too, with easy, confidence-inspiring handling, zesty performance, and a distinctive neo-retro look. 
Engine: 655cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin 
Transmission: Six-speed 
Output: 52.1kW (38.3kW) at 8000rpm, 57.5Nm at 4000rpm 
Weight: 186kg (wet) 
Seat height: 835mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $13,299 ride away 
View the Yamaha XSR700 in New Bike Showroom
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Scooter 

BMW C 400 X 

The low-down: It’s no budget cheapie, but BMW’s C 400 X (and its more touring-oriented sibling, the C 400 GT) is a premium scoot that can handle both city commuting and long-haul touring. It’s high-tech too, with a TFT screen a heap of smart features. 
Engine: 350cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: CVT auto 
Output: 34hp (25kW) at 7500rpm, 35Nm at 6000rpm 
Weight: 204kg (wet) 
Seat height: 775mm 
Warranty: 36 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $10,269 ride away 
Related reading: 2019 BMW C 400 X and C 400 GT Launch Review 
View the BMW C 400 X in New Bike Showroom
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Suzuki Address 110 

The low-down: A favourite for commuters and food delivery riders alike, the budget-friendly Suzuki Address embodies affordable motoring. Super light and nimble, it’s right at home in the urban jungle. 
Engine: 113cc air-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: CVT auto 
Output: 8.8hp (6.5kW) at 7750rpm, 8.6Nm at 6250rpm 
Weight: 97kg (wet) 
Seat height: 755mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $3790 ride away 
Related reading: 2020 Suzuki Address Review
View the Suzuki Address 110 in New Bike Showroom
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Honda Super Cub C125 

The low-down: What is the best-selling motorcycle of all time? You're looking at it! The Honda Super Cub has over 100 million worldwide sales to its name since its launch in 1958. Simple, elegant, robust and reliable, if on the pricey side on a dollar-per-cc footing.
Engine: 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: Four-speed auto 
Output: 9.8hp (7.2kW) at 7500rpm, 10.4Nm at 6250rpm 
Weight: 112kg (wet) 
Seat height: 780mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $7108 ride away 
Related reading: 2020 Honda Super Cub C125 arrives in Australia 
View the Honda Super Cub C125 in New Bike Showroom
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Kymco Like 150 R 

The low-down: Taiwanese firm Kymco pumps out scooters in huge volumes, and by and large they’re thoroughly decent machines too. The Like 150 R is $500 dearer than the Like 150 S, but comes with a topbox that makes it easy to cart around your gear. 
Engine: 150cc air-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: CVT auto 
Output: 13.5hp (9.9kW) at 8500rpm, 
Weight: 120kg (dry) 
Seat height: 790mm 
Warranty: 24 months (36 if serviced at an authorised Kymco dealer) 
Price: From $4990 plus on-road costs 
Related reading: Kymco Like 150 S on sale
View the Kymco Like 150 R in New Bike Showroom
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Yamaha NMAX 15 

The low-down: Yamaha recently updated its NMAX 155 with a more powerful 155cc engine, a stretched frame for roomier ergonomics and more tech such as start-stop to reduce fuel usean idle-stop feature, keyless start and phone connectivity via an app. 
Engine: 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: V-belt auto 
Output: 11.1kW at 8000rpm, 14.4Nm at 6000rpm 
Weight: 127kg (wet) 
Seat height: 765mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $5399 ride away 
Related reading: Yamaha overhauls NMAX 155 scooter 
View the Yamaha NMAX 155 in New Bike Showroom 
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The low-down: For scooter fans, Vespa represents a heady mix of style, substance, and heritage. It's an icon on the scooter landscape, and the GTS SuperTech 300 HPE is its most technologically advanced model yet. It's a lot of coin for a first scooter, but you'll be jumping in at the very top end of town.
Engine: 278cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 
Transmission: CVT auto 
Output: 23.8hp (17.5kW) at 8250rpm, maximum torque: 26Nm at 5250rpm 
Weight: 160kg (dry) 
Seat height: 790mm 
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres 
Price: From $11,990 ride away 
Related reading: 2020 Vespa GTS SuperTech 300 HPE Review
View the Vespa GTS SuperTech 300 HPE in New Bike Showroom 
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Related reading: 
How to get your motorcycle licence: national guide
Advice: What’s a great first big bike?
Adventure bike buyer’s guide, below 400cc
Seven reasons why you should buy a motorcycle
What’s a great first ‘big’ bike? 

*Ride-away pricing is ex-Melbourne unless otherwise indicated