Top 5 Sports Bikes For First-Time Buyers In 2025

We all love sports bikes. And new riders love them even more than experienced folks. After all, faired bikes just hit different when you’re riding around town. The question then is what to buy in the competitive entry-level segment? That’s the question we want to answer here, too, by giving you the top 5 sports bikes for first-time buyers in 2025.

Kawasaki Ninja 500

The Kawasaki Ninja 500 has the underpinnings straight from the 400, so you have the same capabilities. The big change is the 451cc parallel-twin engine with 52cc extra. Peak power is 51 horsepower, which puts it ahead of all of its rivals.

Ninja 500 Power And Torque

Engine	451cc, parallel-twin
Power	51 HP
Torque	31.7 LB-FT
Transmission	Six-speed

CFMoto 450SS

This is one of the finest Chinese sports bikes today. There is a 450cc twin-cylinder mill here, running a 270-degree firing order. That means all the 50 horsepower is spread out across the rev range for a punchy ride. Other highlights include a Brembo M4.32 caliper, a TFT display, and dual-channel ABS. 

CFMoto 450SS Power And Torque

Engine	450cc, twin-cylinder
Power	50 HP
Torque	28.8 LB-FT
Transmission	Six-speed

KTM RC 390

There is no 2025 model for the RC 390 right now because of the upcoming update. But this is still a great little sports bike. Its engine matches the performance offered by its larger rivals. This means you can keep up with more powerful bikes with ease. Just keep KTM’s woes in mind when you consider this.

KTM RC 390 Power And Torque

Engine	373cc, single-cylinder
Power	43 HP
Torque	27.2 LB-FT
Transmission	Six-speed

Aprilia RS 457

The RS 457 is Aprilia’s first try at an entry-level sports bike. The company hits the nail on the head in every aspect, offering a great engine, superb features, striking looks, and the class-leading aluminum chassis. So you have an extremely capable entry-level sports bike.

Aprilia RS 457 Power And Torque

Engine	457cc, parallel-twin
Power	47 HP
Torque	32 LB-FT
Transmission	Six-speed

Honda CBR500R

The CBR500R is an extremely well-rounded package. The parallel-twin engine is understressed, and it has had no reliability woes. This package has also gotten better in 2025, thanks to the latest update that brought a new design and modern features (TFT, phone connectivity, traction control).

Honda CBR500R Power And Torque

Engine	471cc, parallel-twin
Power	47 HP
Torque	31.7 LB-FT
Transmission	Six-speed