Top 10 best motorcycles for beginners
Summary
Summary
Our top 10 motorcycles for beginners in 2026 brings together five Triumph models (Speed 400 at $6,195, Trident 660 at $11,145, Trident 800 at $11,695, Scrambler 400 X at $7,320, Street Triple 765 R at $12,895) and five Ducati models (Monster + at $15,695, Monster SP at $18,895, Scrambler Icon from $13,595, Scrambler Full Throttle at $14,595, Streetfighter V2 at $18,595). The best motorcycle for beginners, according to our team, remains the Triumph Speed 400 for its manageable weight and entry price, while the Ducati Monster + stands out as the best sports motorcycle for beginners in 2026 thanks to its four driving modes and its seat-lowering kit.
The best motorcycle for beginners comes down to three concrete variables: weight, seat height and how the engine delivers torque. Before comparing models, take five minutes to identify your type of motorcycle. A roadster is more forgiving than a fully faired sports bike, especially in Montréal traffic at rush hour on the Metropolitan expressway. Wondering which motorcycle to start with between a Triumph and Ducati? Here are our ten picks, with 2026 manufacturer prices.
Our top 5 2026 Triumph motorcycles for beginners
Five models stand out in our selection of the best 2026 Triumph motorcycles for a first purchase. All share one measurable point in common: accessible torque available at low revs, which helps avoid stalling at red lights.
Triumph Speed 400
The 398 cc TR Series single delivers 37.5 Nm of torque, a value tailored for learning without surprises. At $6,195, it is the most affordable Triumph in the lineup, about half the price of a Trident 660. So, why choose the Speed 400 at Motos Illimitées Montréal? Because it is regularly in stock in Anjou and a test ride can be booked in minutes.
| Model | Engine | Torque | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed 400 | Single 398 cc | 37.5 Nm | $6,195 |
Triumph Trident 660
The best motorcycle to start with using a triple, according to many press tests. The 660-cc engine delivers 59 lb-ft of torque, and the 2026 version adds standard cornering ABS, cruise control and a quickshifter. And why choose Motos Illimitées Montréal? For tailored financing, including 2nd and 3rd chance credit solutions.
| Model | Engine | Key equipment | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trident 660 | Triple 660 cc | Cornering ABS, cruise control | $11,145 |
Triumph Trident 800
For $550 more than the 660, the new Trident 800 offers a noticeably stronger triple, best reserved for taller beginners or riders already comfortable on a high-displacement scooter. So, why purchase it at Motos Illimitées Montréal? Because the team will honestly tell you if it is too much bike for you.
| Model | Engine | Positioning | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trident 800 | Triple 800 cc | Confident beginner | $11,695 |
Triumph Scrambler 400 X
It shares the same mechanical base as the Speed 400, but adds increased ground clearance and an upright position that provides excellent visibility in Montréal traffic. Count $7,320, or $8,195 for the 400 XC version that is better equipped for gravel roads in the Laurentians. And why go to Motos Illimitées Montréal? For immediate availability. Several units are in stock at the time of writing.
| Model | Engine | Use | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrambler 400 X | Single 398 cc | City and mixed roads | $7,320 |
| Scrambler 400 XC | Single 398 cc | Roads and gravel | $8,195 |
Triumph Street Triple 765 R
Looking for the best sports motorcycle for beginners in 2026 made by a British manufacturer? The 765 R and its 120 hp engine derived from the Moto2 program command respect, but its driving modes and traction control support your progression. And why purchase it at Motos Illimitées Montréal? For guidance from a team that rides Street Triple bikes themselves.
| Model | Engine | Power | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Triple 765 R | Triple 765 cc | 120 hp | $12,895 |
Our top 5 2026 Ducati motorcycles for beginners
With Ducati, the question is not whether a motorcycle for beginners exists, but which one suits your build. Our ranking of the best 2026 Ducati motorcycles to begin with focuses on models where electronics act as a safety net. Note that Ducati adds $995 in freight to the listed prices.
Ducati Monster +
The new 890 cc V2 engine delivers 111 hp in a 386 lb. dry-weight chassis, and the optional lowering kit brings the seat from 815 mm down to 775 mm, a real advantage for riders under 5 ft 6 in. Four Driving modes (Sport, Road, Urban, Wet) and cornering ABS are standard, at $15,695. And why choose it at Motos Illimitées Montréal? Because Ducati Montréal, a division of the group, gathers all Monster inventory in one place.
| Model | Engine | Dry weight | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monster + | V2 890 cc, 111 hp | 386 lb. | $15,695 |
Ducati Monster SP
Same recipe as the Monster +, enhanced with Öhlins suspension and stronger brakes for $18,895. A logical choice if you plan on enjoying days on the track at Mécaglisse as early as your second season. And why choose Motos Illimitées Montréal? To ride away without delay. In-stock units are delivery-ready.
| Model | Suspension | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|
| Monster SP | Öhlins front and rear | $18,895 |
Ducati Scrambler Icon
With its air-cooled 803 cc twin engine and 795 mm seat height, the Icon remains the classic gateway into Ducati, starting at $13,595 ($11,995 for the Icon Dark version). Gentle torque delivery makes it an excellent motorcycle for beginners who want style without mechanical stress. Why go to Motos Illimitées Montréal? Because our Scrambler inventory is among the most extensive in Québec, so you will surely find the bike you want.
| Model | Engine | Seat height | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrambler Icon Dark | Twin 803 cc | 795 mm | $11,995 |
| Scrambler Icon | Twin 803 cc | 795 mm | From $13,595 |
Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle
The flat-track styled take on the Icon, with a low handlebar and sport exhaust, for $14,595. Mechanically identical, so just as accessible to start with. Why choose it at Motos Illimitées Montréal? To compare the four Scrambler versions side by side before you sign.
| Model | Highlight | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|
| Scrambler Full Throttle | Flat-track style | $14,595 |
Ducati Streetfighter V2
At $18,595, this 120-hp roadster with a 392-lb. dry weight represents a reasonable bike for a first purchase, but only if you have taken advanced training. A quickshifter and electronics derived from the Panigale compensate for many rookie mistakes. Why choose it at Motos Illimitées Montréal? Because the Streetfighter V2 moves fast. Ducati inventory in Anjou keeps units in stock for immediate delivery, which avoids factory-order wait times of several months.
| Model | Engine | Dry weight | 2026 manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Streetfighter V2 | V2 890 cc, 120 hp | 392 lb. | $18,595 |
Summary table of the best 2026 motorcycles for beginners
Here are the ten models ranked from most affordable to most expensive, so you can see where your budget fits in. Still hesitating between the two brands? Our Triumph or Ducati comparison details the main differences between the two manufacturers.
| Rank | 2026 model | Displacement | Manufacturer price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Triumph Speed 400 | 398 cc | $6,195 |
| 2 | Triumph Scrambler 400 X | 398 cc | $7,320 |
| 3 | Triumph Trident 660 | 660 cc | $11,145 |
| 4 | Triumph Trident 800 | 800 cc | $11,695 |
| 5 | Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark | 803 cc | $11,995 |
| 6 | Triumph Street Triple 765 R | 765 cc | $12,895 |
| 7 | Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle | 803 cc | $14,595 |
| 8 | Ducati Monster + | 890 cc | $15,695 |
| 9 | Ducati Streetfighter V2 | 890 cc | $18,595 |
| 10 | Ducati Monster SP | 890 cc | $18,895 |
*These are the prices available on the manufacturer's site at the time of research. They are subject to change without notice.
FAQ
What is the best motorcycle to start with?
The best motorcycle for beginners in 2026 is the Triumph Speed 400, which offers the strongest balance of price, weight and ease: $6,195, under 397 lb. and 37.5 Nm of torque that never catches you out.
What engine size should you choose for a first motorcycle?
Between 400 and 700 cc for most riders. Below that, you will top out quickly on Highway 40. Above that, power exceeds 100 hp and requires real throttle discipline.
Which motorcycle is the easiest to ride?
The Scrambler 400 X, thanks to its upright position, wide handlebar and reduced weight. The Ducati Monster + follows closely with a seat kit lowered to 775 mm.
What budget should you plan for, for a first motorcycle?
Between $6,195 and $12,895 for a new Triumph, between $11,995 and $18,895 for a Ducati, before taxes, freight and protective gear. Plan for $1,200 to $2,000 for a quality helmet, jacket and gloves.
What criteria should you consider to choose a motorcycle for beginners?
Four measurable criteria: seat height, running weight, electronic aids (cornering ABS, traction control) and annual maintenance cost. Style comes after.