Light-Weight Motorcycles For Ladies (16 Best Options)

By / Curated Lists, Motorcycles / Last Updated: October 19, 2023

Women come in all shapes and sizes, just like men and just like motorcycles. 

The size and weight of the bike vary depending on the type of riding you plan on doing, your personal stature, the kind of bike you’re looking for, your preferred ergonomic riding position, etc.

This article is interested in the best lightweight motorcycle options for women or anyone seeking a sleek, easy-to-ride, light bike. 

1. Kawasaki Eliminator 125

The Kawasaki Eliminator 125 is a 125 cc single-cylinder beginner bike in an American-inspired cruiser package, weighing just 300 pounds. The Eliminator has a low seat of 30 inches off the ground and is commonly used as a leaner bike at motorcycle schools. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs for the Kawasaki Eliminator:  

    • Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
    • Cylinders: 1
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Air
    • Valves: 2
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 2
    • Valve Configuration: SOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the specs of the transmission:  

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 5
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

2. Honda CB300R ABS

The Honda CB300R is a lightweight naked-styled street fighter with a mild-mannered, liquid-cooled 286cc sing-cylinder engine with a low seat height of 31.5 inches and a light wet weight of 317 pounds.

Its lightweight and affordable price make it an excellent choice for beginner ladies aiming to graduate to the more powerful naked, sport, or streetfighter riding scene.  

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
    • Cylinders: 1
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 4
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    •  Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel):  Chain

3. Honda Rebel 300

The Honda Rebel series has been a longtime favorite of lightweight lady riders seeking an easy-to-handle cruiser with a modern style twist. The Rebel 300 is the lowest, smallest, and lightest of the bunch—350 pounds and 27 inches off the ground with a 286cc single-cylinder engine. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs:  

    • Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
    • Cylinders: 1
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 4
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

We have an article about the common Honda Rebel problems that might interest you.

4. Yamaha V-Star 250

The Yamaha V-Star is an American-style cruiser made by the most reliable Japanese bike builder in the game.

The V-star 250’s seat is only 27 inches off the ground, and even though it only stocks a 250cc engine, it’s a two-cylinder V-Twin capable of pushing the 325-pounder up to 85 MPH.

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: V Twin
    • Cylinders: 2
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Air
    • Valves: 4
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 2
    • Valve Configuration: SOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs: 

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 5
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

5. BMW G 310 GS

One of the most reliable yet lightweight dual sport bikes popular with the ladies is the BMW G 310 GS, a competent adventure bike that weighs just 374 pounds.

While the G 310 GS isn’t the most powerful bike on the list, its 313cc single-cylinder engine is tuned for consistent and efficient performance on and off the road. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
    • Cylinders: 1
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 4
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 10.6:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Premium
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

Make sure to read our article about whether BMW Motorcycles are good for beginners.

6. Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS

One of the best bikes for lightweight lady riders to build their sport bike chops on is the Kawasaki Ninja 400.

It may look exactly like its intimidating older siblings with its aggressive Ninja style, but the 400 stocks a 399cc liquid-cooled parallel twin motor with a seat height of 30.9 inches and 366 pounds.  

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Parallel Twin
    • Cylinders: 2
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 8
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

7. Yamaha MT-07

One of my favorites, the Yamaha MT-07, is a lightweight, high-performance dual-sport motorcycle that rips as hard on the trails as on the highway and city streets.

It stocks a parallel twin, liquid-cooled 689cc engine and weighs just 403 pounds, sitting 31.7 inches from the ground. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs for the MT-07:

    • Engine Type: Parallel Twin
    • Cylinders: 2
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 8
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

8. KTM RC 390

The KTM is a nimble, narrow entry-level sport bike that weighs just 328 pounds and has a seat height of 32 inches.

It rocks a 373cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, and the signature KTM sport looks for less than $5,550, although the RC 390 is so lightweight it feels less stable than other bikes in its class.

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
    • Cylinders: 1
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 4
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 12.6:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Premium
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

9. Honda CB500X

The CB500X is the trail-ready version of their CB500 naked bike, both incredibly lightweight, at 430 pounds. The CB500X edition rips as hard in the city streets as it can on the trails, thanks to its 471cc liquid-cooled parallel twin. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Parallel Twin
    • Cylinders: 2
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 8
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

10. Ducati Scrambler Cafe 

The Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer edition stocks a high-performance 802 cc air-cooled parallel twin, true to its vintage cafe roots.

Its elegant, lightweight chassis also contributes to its classic modern vibe, as it weighs 432 pounds with a seat height of 31.7 inches. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Longitudinal Twin
    • Cylinders: 2
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Air
    • Valves: 4
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 2
    • Valve Configuration: SOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 11:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Premium
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

11. Triumph Street Triple R

Another one of our favorite items on the lightweight list is the Triumph Street Triple, a streetfighter version of their sport bike line.

The Triumph Street Triple stocks a unique 765 cc, triple-cylinder liquid-cooled engine and has a customizable seat height between 30 and 32.5 inches without weighing more than 370 pounds.

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Horizontal In-line
    • Cylinders: 3
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 12
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 12.65:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

12. Zero S 

The Zero S is a top-of-the-line electric sportbike, and although it does require a recharge between 90 and 200 miles depending on your trim’s battery capacity, the lack of fuel and air-intake systems contribute to a lightweight of 313 pounds.   

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Electric
    • Cylinders: 0
    • Cooling: Air
    • Valves: 0
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 0
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Type: Electric

Transmission

  • Here are the transmission specs:
    • Transmission Type: Automatic
    • Number Of Speeds: 1
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Belt

We also have an article about how reliable Zero motorcycles are if you’re interested in buying one.  

13. Yamaha YZF R6

Yamaha’s medium-sized, 600cc track monster may stock a four-cylinder liquid-cooled powerhouse of a motor with four valves per cylinder, 16 total.

Still, its delta box aluminum frame keeps it lightweight, at just 417 pounds, with a full tank of gas and a full coolant reservoir. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Horizontal In-line
    • Cylinders: 4
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 16
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 13.1:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

14. Suzuki SV650

The Suzuki SV650 is designed to function between a hyper-efficient commuter and a road-ripping streetfighter.

With class-leading handling, a 31-inch seat height, and a weight of 436 pounds, the SV650 has always been a popular choice among female riders seeking a light bike. 

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: V Twin
    • Cylinders: 2
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 8
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 11.2:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Requirements: Regular
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

15. Kawasaki Versys 650

In our opinion, lightweight is anything less than 500 pounds.

Female riders looking for something light but rugged, torquey, and tour-ready with a taller, upright riding position may find the 475 pounds, 649cc twin-stocked Versys to be precisely what they’re looking for.  

Engine and Transmission

Here are the engine and transmission specs:

    • Displacement: 649.0 ccs (39.60 cubic inches)
    • Engine type: Twin, four-stroke
    • Power: 69.0 HP (50.4 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
    • Torque: 64.0 Nm (6.5 kg-m or 47.2 ft. lbs) @ 7000 RPM
    • Compression: 10.8:1
    • Bore x stroke: 83.0 x 60.0 mm (3.3 x 2.4 inches)
    • Valves per cylinder: 4
    • Fuel system: Injection. DFI® with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies (2)
    • Fuel control: Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
    • Ignition: TCBI with electronic advance
    • Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
    • Cooling system: Liquid
    • Gearbox: 6-speed
    • Transmission type: Chain   (final drive)
    • Driveline: Sealed chain

Physical Measures and Capacities

Here are the motorcycle’s dimensions:

    • Dry weight: 216.1 kg (476.3 pounds)
    • Power/weight ratio: 0.3194 HP/kg
    • Seat height: 840 mm (33.1 inches). If adjustable, lowest setting.
    • Overall height: 1400 mm (55.1 inches)
    • Overall length: 2165 mm (85.2 inches)
    • Overall width: 841 mm (33.1 inches)
    • Ground clearance: 170 mm (6.7 inches)
    • Wheelbase: 1415 mm (55.7 inches)
    • Fuel capacity: 21.00 liters (5.55 US gallons)

16. Honda CBR600

The CBR600 is an efficiency-focused medium-class sport bike with a 600cc, inline-four cylinder engine.

While technically a track bike, the CB600 makes a popular street bike for experienced female riders looking for a nimble bike, thanks to its light weight of just above 400 pounds.   

Engine

Here are the engine specs:

    • Engine Type: Horizontal In-line
    • Cylinders: 4
    • Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke
    • Cooling: Liquid
    • Valves: 16
    • Valves Per Cylinder: 4
    • Valve Configuration: DOHC
    • Compression Ratio: 12.2:1
    • Starter: Electric
    • Fuel Type: Gas

Transmission

Here are the transmission specs:

    • Transmission Type: Manual
    • Number Of Speeds: 6
    • Primary Drive (Rear Wheel): Chain

Sources

Motorcycle Reviews, Prices, and Specs

Most Popular Lightweight Motorcycles | MotoSport

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