There’s a new motorcycle for just about any price point these days, from a few grand for a Grom all the way up to six figures for highly customized boutique bikes. Thankfully, most machines are nowhere near that kind of money, which means you can have a quality bike without taking a second mortgage out on your house. There are plenty available under $10,000 in fact, and we’re going to run through five of the best 2023 models below.
2023 Honda CRF450L: $9,999
The 2023 Honda CRF450L is one of the most capable dual sport bikes currently available, especially if you plan to do some serious off-roading. The 291-pound machine is based on the brand’s CRF450X enduro and comes equipped with a 450cc Unicam single, wide-ratio six-speed transmission, fuel injection, dual radiators, LED lighting, long-travel Showa suspension, works-style braking kit, a fuel gauge, hand guards, and on and on. It’s capable of handling any on-road requirements too, opening up countless riding possibilities.
2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone: $9,190
The Moto Guzzi V7 Stone has a lot going for it, even if it isn’t the first bike you think of on a list like this. Styling-wise, there’s no question it stands out, with a stripped-down, nostalgic aesthetic and the iconic transverse-mounted 90-degree V-twin. The engine got a refresh a few years back and now offers 65 hp and 54 lb.-ft. of torque, not jaw-dropping numbers by any means but plenty for spirited jaunts around town and plenty capable of keeping an elevated pace on the backroads. It’s a bike brimming with character, the shaft drive is low maintenance, the perch is comfortable for a wide range of riders, and with a few accessory add-ons the V7 Stone can become a capable weekend travel companion. This is a bike that could easily have a spot in your garage for a long, long time.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT: $9,599
The popularity of the V-Strom 650 is undeniable, and the XT variant adds some valuable upgrades to the mix. These include hand guards, lower engine protection, and wire-spoked rims. It is powered by a tried-and-true 645cc V-twin engine that has been refined over the years to provide buttery-smooth power output throughout the rev range. The bike has a modest but useful selection of electronic aids, including three traction control settings, Easy Start, Low RPM Assist, and LED lighting throughout. Adjustable suspension lets riders dial the bike in for different ride scenarios and the 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel configuration make the V-Strom 650 comfortable on asphalt and capable on dirt. There is a huge range of upgrades available from Suzuki and third-party vendors, so it’s easy to dial this platform to your exact needs.
2023 Triumph Street Triple 765 R: $9,995
The naked streetfigher style of bike is one of the most populated at this price point, with compelling options from Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, KTM, Honda, and others. But the Triumph Street Triple 765 R gets our vote as the most appealing option for the price in 2023. The Moto2-derived triple-cylinder engine offers up to 118 hp and 59 lb.-ft. of torque and the bike weighs a slim 417 pounds ready to ride. Fully adjustable Showa suspension and Brembo braking kit are highlights of the nimble chassis, while a suite of electronics includes systems such as Cornering ABS, wheelie control, traction control, and four ride modes. This bike is made for spirited rides on winding roads and its styling is striking when put up against other models in this segment. It’s the whole package.
2023 Yamaha YZF-R7: $9,199s
For riders who want a versatile sport-styled machine, Yamaha’s YZF-R7 is a phenomenal option. The 689cc twin provides a decent amount of power across the rev range, giving the bike broad application as both an around-town machine and a fun trackday mount. Suspension is fully adjustable at the front and has spring preload and rebound damping adjustments at the rear. Brembo braking kit brings the bike to a reliable stop, and a slim chassis contributes to giving the bike an effortless feel at the bars. It is not going to elevate your pulse in the same way as a four-cylinder supersport, but it will be versatile, comfortable, and will no doubt turn some heads.
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com