Motorcycles are one of the best options for commuters, especially in cities, as they are cheap to run, easy to park and often have low emissions.
With low-emission zones becoming more prevalent in UK cities and commuter areas, there has never been a better time to own a commuter motorbike.
But with so many to choose from, how do you know which one to get? Read our blog on the best commuter motorcycle to find some great options that can handle all-year-round riding.
All the bikes on this list are ULEZ-compliant so you don’t have to worry about paying the ULEZ charge.
How to choose the best commuter motorcycle
Obviously, the right commuter bike will depend on several factors, with the kind of journey you’ll be taking being the main one. Smaller bikes and scooters are fine for urban transport, but if you work in the country having something a bit more powerful will help you cover those miles in good time.
If your commute takes you onto any motorways or roads with a minimum speed of 30mph, then you will definitely need something with an engine capacity of at least 125cc, but unless you’re completely new to biking and can’t use anything above a 50cc scooter you’ll probably want that even if you’re only travelling within cities.
It’s also a good idea to not buy something too old, as it will be more prone to needing repairs and finding spare parts could be difficult. Anything made within the last 20 years should be relatively easy to locate replacement parts for, especially if it’s from one of the more established manufacturers.
Honda NC750X
Considered a favourite for commuters, the NC750X is more affordable than the BMW F900XR. If picking one, go for the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) version – the standard one features short gearing, which can be quite annoying. And, really, why would you want to shift gears when riding in the city traffic?
The most recent 2023 model is Euro 5 compliant, meaning you can safely use it in the city without having to pay the ULEZ or CAZ charge.
The model has been praised for its reliability and safety features, making it a great bike for commuting and safe weekend fun. While some manufacturers find it difficult to strike the right balance between creating a bike that is both powerful enough to enjoy a long weekend cruise and not too big to ride on city roads, Honda has been able to do this and more with the NC750X. Beginners and biker veterans alike are sure to get a lot out of this model.
Kawasaki Z300
The lightweight, A2-licence compatible Z300 is a great choice for new riders. With its naked street styling and 296cc parallel twin motor giving it a surprising amount of torque, this bike is perfect for getting about town.
The Z300, a naked version of the Ninja, doesn’t look like a typical entry-level bike either. With its LCD instrumentation, petal brake discs and a wide flat bar, the little Kawasaki is a great two-wheeler.
Suzuki SV650
Often touted as one of the best commuter bikes in the UK, you’re probably not surprised that the Suzuki SV650 has made this list. Despite its nimble size, it has enough power to jump ahead of the traffic, making it ideal for city riding. Its 650cc engine and 72bhp means that it’s more than capable of completing longer motorway or dual carriageway commutes, and its upright seating position will keep you comfortable throughout.
The SV650 is a little pricey compared to other bikes on this list, but it certainly does pack a punch for that price. Its versatility allows you to use the bike not only for commuting, but also for fun weekend rides with twisting turns. The 2021 model is Euro 5 compliant so you won’t have to pay the charge in low-emission zones.
Vespa Primavera 125
First launched in 1968, the Vespa Primavera has played a big part in the Italian company’s history. The model made a return in 2014 and has been updated regularly ever since. If you’re looking for a fairly low-powered but equally fun, affordable and stylish mode of transport, look no further than the 125cc.
The 2020 Euro 5-compliant version is ideal for cosmopolitans living or commuting into cities within low-emission zones. Vespa’s motorbikes have always been elegant and this model is no exception as it borrows some styling tips from the 946. The latest model also has a fuel consumption figure of 113 miles per gallon, which should get the job done for most commutes.
This is a great commuter bike for beginner riders or those not wanting to spend too much on their daily ride.
BMW F900XR
The BMW F900XR is more than just a commuter motorcycle, but often the best ones are. It’s sporty yet comfortable, and is able to cover daily use no matter the surface – as long as you don’t ride it off-road. The F900XR has a relaxed upright seating position, making it easy to ride over long distances, as well as a wind and weather protector, which are ideal if you need the bike for commuting all-year round.
BMW’s F900XR complies with Euro 5 emission standards, meaning you shouldn’t need to pay ULEZ or CAZ charges. You can get older models, but make sure they’re Euro 3 compliant and above to avoid paying charges when travelling into the city.
The beauty of the F900XR is that it doesn’t just have to be used for commuting. It can also be used for touring, long-distance journeys, short trips to the shops or bragging rights. The only downside is that many report the seat is fairly hard, but if you’re tempted you can purchase a comfort seat to counteract this.
Honda CB125F
Honda has always been great at producing economical, brilliantly practical, small-engined commuters ever since its world-changing first 50cc Cub in 1958 – the bike that went on to be the world’s best-ever selling vehicle. In the UK, its closest equivalent, arguably, is the Honda CB125F.
First introduced in 2015 as the latest in a long line of 125cc, four-stroke, single cylinder commuters, it’s a no-frills roadster that simply does what it sets out to do incredibly well. It’s easy-as-pie to ride and, thanks to a claimed mpg of 188.4 for the 2021 model (although be warned that you’ll likely get less than this out of the bike), is cheap-as-chips to run as well.
The motor produces 10.7bhp at 7500rpm which is just about enough for 70mph. Assembly in India keeps the price down without noticeably sacrificing quality. It’s also lighter and more durable than most at this end of the market, looks good and even has proper twin clocks and a fuel gauge – everything you need, in fact, for that bargain basement commute across town.
Be warned, though, that some riders suggest that the motorbike isn’t as fun to ride on dual carriageways or motorways because it struggles to reach 70mph.
Triumph 660 Tiger Sport
The 660 Tiger Sport is one of the most impressive bikes on this list. This bike is an all-rounder, or in many ways a sports adventure.
It’s spacious, it’s comfortable, it’s agile, and most importantly, it’s incredibly easy to ride and handles like a charm. The front end will fill you with confidence thanks to its tyres that have extra grip and powerful brakes.
The three-cylinder engine also gives you enough zip to get around cities on your commute.
Mutt Motorcycles Sabbath 125
Birmingham-based bike builders Mutt Motorcycles, have reinvented the small capacity custom market with their range of 125cc cafe racer-inspired bikes. Our favourite of the range – the Sabbath 125 – offers an ultra lightweight stealth matt black frame that is perfect for any new rider wanting to capture a cool look.
This is another relatively affordable commuter bike that has plenty of attitude. All 2021 models are Euro 5 compliant, so if you’re buying an older model second-hand, make sure you check that they’re compliant. You should find that most Mutt Motorcycles bikes are at least Euro 4 compliant, which is fine for ULEZ and CAZ areas.
The best second-hand commuter bikes
If you go second-hand it can be pretty affordable. We’ve put together a guide to the best second-hand commuter bikes, and what you need to know to get a good one.
What to look out for when buying a used commuter bike
Buying a used bike can be tricky; you need to make sure you’re buying something that’s not going to break down immediately. Our guide to buying a moped has a good summary of the things you need to keep an eye out for.
This applies more if you’re doing a private sale, most second-hand bike dealers will have repaired any major issues, but it’s a good idea to know what you should be looking for to ensure you’re not stuck with a lemon.
The main things to check for are any obvious signs of damage. Scrapes on the bodywork are often an indicator that it’s been involved in a crash and might mean there are more serious problems with it. You should also check that the brakes work, and make sure the seller has the right paperwork and logbook.
Keeway Blackster 250
The Blackster is a budget v-twin custom cruiser released in 2016. Keeway’s current range is purely based around 125cc models, but spare parts for the Blackster should be widely available. It’s a great choice if you want something with that classic retro look without that classic retro price tag. With a bit more power, thanks to the 250cc engine, this will make a great commuter. You should be able to pick one up for less than two grand.
Kawasaki Versys 650
Another choice for more experienced riders, the Versys 650 has been a big seller for many years so it’s relatively easy to pick one up for around four grand. If this sounds a bit too powerful for you, then second-hand Versys-x 300s are often available for around the same price.
BMW G310R
BMW motorcycles are known for being reliable, comfortable bikes to ride so if you’ve got a longer commute then the G310R is a great choice. Three or four-year-old models can easily be found for £3,000 or under, which is a great price for a bike of BMW’s lineage.
Suzuki Burgman
If comfort is an important consideration for you then maxi scooters are a great choice, with the added bonus of room to carry a passenger on the pillion and a surprisingly capacious under-seat trunk. The Burgman is available in a range of different engine capacities, with both 125 and 400 versions readily available for under £3,000 second-hand.
Yamaha XMax 250
Another maxi scooter, you can regularly find 250cc models about five years old for a very reasonable £2,500. While not quite as all-encompassing as the Burgman, the XMaz 250 still provides a decent amount of carrying space and a level of comfort that will make longer commutes far more pleasurable.
Lexmoto
Lexmoto are one of the most successful manufacturers of budget bikes, many of which are ideal for learners and urban commuters who don’t need powerful engines to get around. You can find a good selection of their past 50cc and 125cc scooters and motorcycles for well under two grand, making them a great choice for an affordable first bike.
Make sure you’ve got motorcycle insurance for your daily commuter
No matter which bike you choose for your daily commute, we offer affordable motorcycle insurance that can be tailored to suit your needs and budget – call us for our best rates on 0808 109 8608 or book a callback at a time that suits you.