The best A2 motorcycles in the UK 2023

Determining the right type of motorcycle to ride can quickly become a headache when you've just passed your motorcycle school test or are about to complete your A2 license test. So let this guide help you choose the model you want from our selection of the best "ready to ride" A2 motorcycles.

Masai VISION 5K electric motorcycle 1
9/10

Editor's Choice

Masai VISION 5K electric motorcycle

The best A2 motorcycle in 2021

If you're looking for a powerful, eco-friendly motorcycle, the Vision 5K has what you need. It's capable of handling rough trails and highways with ease and without harming the environment.

3 912 £ on Masai Motor

Whether it's on a smooth, well-maintained road, a rough track or a steep hill, the Vision 5K with its 5 kW engine promises a fast and muscular response. It also provides a stable ride and increased performance that will more than live up to your expectations.

You won't need any special equipment to charge this bike as any standard electrical outlet will do the trick to guarantee a range of 70 to 160 km. A great autonomy ensured by its removable Samsung battery (Lithium 72V 64 Ah) which allows you to charge it independently from the motorcycle, quietly at home while your motorcycle is in the garage. This also allows you to install a second battery for your motorcycle trips while the battery is charged.

Masai Furious 125cc 2
7/10

Inexpensive

Masai Furious 125cc

The best entry-level A2 motorcycle in 2021

This Racing 125 Masai Furious will not go unnoticed on the asphalt. With its futuristic look and the latest technology, it can cover the miles in a matter of seconds, but it can also handle rough roads.

2 392 £ on Masai Motor

This motorcycle seduces at first glance by its shape and its aggressive looking lines. The Furious 125 is a real technological jewel with its various accessories and its engine. Indeed, the DOHC 4-valve liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine developing 15 HP at 10,000 rpm is both fast and powerful. Its 17-inch wheels, its monoshock and its inverted suspension ensure great stability and excellent handling.

Masai has equipped this model with an ABS braking system for added safety. All the details such as the electric start, the panoramic LED speedometer or the racing exhaust further enhance the sporty look of this bike. Ideal for long trips as well as for city races, this 125 roadster is a wise choice, both for its consumption and its maintenance.

Kawasaki Z650 2021 3
8/10

Top of the line

Kawasaki Z650 2021

The best high-end A2 motorcycle in 2021

If there is one brand that is appreciated by motorcyclists, it is Kawasaki. This Z650 is a sporty roadster designed for people who are not very tall and for women who like sporty and aggressive riding.

5 839 £ on Moto Planète

Its look makes you think of an indomitable beast, but this bike is not that aggressive! With a well-thought-out design to highlight its lines and various assets, the Kawasaki Z650 SE is equipped with a 68 hp, 4-stroke, parallel-twin, fuel-injected engine running at 8000 rpm. It is a motorcycle equipped with the latest technology in terms of equipment, with a TFT color screen dashboard and a Bluetooth connection.

In terms of comfort, this new version of the Z650 is thinner, but with an extremely effective grip on the ground. Add to that its 765 mm seat height, low-profile tires and tele-hydraulic forks for optimal stability and unparalleled comfort, even in the most difficult corners. Braking is provided by a good ABS.

Suzuki SV 650 4
8/10

A great choice

Suzuki SV 650

Efficient and no-frills, this Suzuki SV 650 is made for women and small people. Its unparalleled stability makes it a true ally on any road.

5 559 £ on Nikita Bike

The new version of the Suzuki SV 650 is coming to the market. It is above all a roadster that is both practical in traffic and powerful on highways. Thanks to its 4-stroke V-twin 650cc injection engine, it is also capable of riding rough roads. If this V-Twin was initially more modest, it is now more powerful and more sporty.

With a torque of 6.4 mkg at 8100 rpm, this bike is very fast, yet stable. The high seat height of 785 mm is a big advantage for smaller riders because of its comfort. The ABS braking system makes stopping smoother and more comfortable. It is also an economical motorcycle as it consumes only 4.1 L/100 km.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best A2 motorcycle

Any specific needs?

The best A2 motorcycle in 2021

The best entry-level A2 motorcycle in 2021

The best high-end A2 motorcycle in 2021

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Comparison table of the best A2 motorcycles

The best Inexpensive Top of the line Excellent
Masai VISION 5K electric motorcycle 5
9/10
Masai Furious 125cc 6
7/10
Kawasaki Z650 2021 7
8/10
Suzuki SV 650 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Masai VISION 5K electric motorcycle
Masai Furious 125cc
Kawasaki Z650 2021
Suzuki SV 650
If you're looking for a powerful, eco-friendly motorcycle, the Vision 5K has what you need. It's capable of handling rough trails and highways with ease and without harming the environment.
This Racing 125 Masai Furious will not go unnoticed on the asphalt. With its futuristic look and the latest technology, it can cover the miles in a matter of seconds, but it can also handle rough roads.
If there is one brand that is appreciated by motorcyclists, it is Kawasaki. This Z650 is a sporty roadster designed for people who are not very tall and for women who like sporty and aggressive riding.
Efficient and no-frills, this Suzuki SV 650 is made for women and small people. Its unparalleled stability makes it a true ally on any road.
Category
All-terrain motorcycle
Standard bike
Roadster
Sportive
Capacity
5K > 125 cc equivalent
124.6 cc
649 cc
650 cc
Engine
5000 W electric motor
4T, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine
4-stroke inline-twin engine
4-stroke fuel-injected V-twin
Specifics
4,61 kWh 72 V lithium battery, lights, LED, digital meter, keyless start
Panoramic LCD meter, full LED lighting, 6-speed manual clutch
6-speed gearbox, TFT display, bluetooth connectivity, Euro5 standard
seat height at 785 mm, lightweight, Euro5 standard,
Fork
37 mm (inverted fork)
35 mm
41 mm
41 mm

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Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - A2 motorcycle

Primary Item (H2)Sub Item 1 (H3)

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How to choose your A2 motorcycle

Here are some parameters to consider in order to find the best A2 motorcycle that will meet your needs and satisfy your desire to escape.

#1 - The engine

If you have an A2 license, you can ride a motorcycle with a capacity of more than 125 cc. If you opt for a large engine, make sure that the engine does not exceed 70 kW and that it can be limited to reduce its power in accordance with the restrictions imposed by the law in force.

In this sense, look for a motorcycle with A2 bridle kits that can be easily installed. The obvious advantage is that as soon as you get your full class A license, you'll be able to remove your bridle and enjoy a much more powerful motorcycle, without needing to buy a new one.

#2 - The braking system

Most motorcycles with standard braking systems don't prevent the brakes from locking up if they're overused. So turn to models with ABS braking systems that will prevent the tires and brakes from locking up and skidding when you brake too hard.

As a new A2 licensee, you're more likely to apply the brakes too hard in a panic situation. So for your safety, bet on a motorcycle with an ABS braking system.

#3 - The windshield

It's recommended to choose a motorcycle with a windshield or fairing on the front. This is to protect you from wind and weather. Having to lean forward to fight the force of the wind while riding will make you tired on a long ride.

So choose a model with a windshield that will also block small rocks and bugs while you ride. Overall, it will keep you cleaner and more comfortable on your ride. It's also about your safety on the road.

#4 - The seat height

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride on your ride, pay special attention to the height of the seat and the way your legs position themselves.

When you reach a point where you have to stop and put your feet on the ground, the height of the seat will have to adapt to the length of your legs. It is necessary to find the right balance between the height of the seat and the length of your crotch.

Make sure that this gap is only a few centimeters apart so that you can feel comfortable when standing or standing still. As an FYI, be aware that there are also motorcycles for women and smaller people if you are short.

#5 - The handlebar height

Make sure you can easily access the hand controls while sitting on your motorcycle. So make sure you have good posture when you ride your motorcycle.

Good posture means that you don't have to lean forward to reach the controls. Your elbows should also be slightly bent when you sit on the bike to reach the controls, which will keep you comfortable and alert while riding.

The characteristics of the motorcycle for an A2 license

To be able to ride legally with your interim license, it is imperative to ride a motorcycle that meets the standards of the A2 category. For this purpose

  • the maximum power of the motorcycle must be limited to 35kW (i.e. 47.5 horsepower) and to 25kW for motorcycles manufactured before January 2013.
  • the power to weight ratio must not exceed 0.2 kW/kg.
  • the maximum power (unbridled) of the motorcycle must not be greater than or equal to twice its power once bridled. In other words, a 70kW motorcycle (limited to 35kW) can be A2 eligible, while a motorcycle with more than 70kW power is not A2 eligible, even if it is limited to 35kW.

Breaking in a new motorcycle

Before setting off on a long-distance adventure, remember to break in your brand new "big bike" first. This is essential for it to stabilize. Therefore, ride at least 500 km at a constant speed. Avoid full throttle starts and hard acceleration, as these can compromise engine performance. Familiarize your car with the various gear changes.

What is the A2 throttle?

Motorcycle bridling is a technical manipulation that consists in reducing (bridling) the power of the engine. Thus, the A2 clamping will limit the power of the motorcycle to 47.5 horsepower, or 35kW. The bridling must be done by a professional. The latter will provide you with a certificate of certification when you apply for your motorcycle registration. Afterwards, the maximum power of 35kW will be mentioned in the registration document.

Good to know

Motorcycles and scooters over 175 cc are required to have a noise level of no more than 80 dB.

Regulations on motorcycle smoke emissions

European emission standardsCarbon monoxide (mg/km)Total hydrocarbons (mg/km)Non-methane hydrocarbons (mg/km)NOx (mg/km)
Euro 4 1140170Not legislated90
Euro 5 10001006860

The different types of A2 motorcycles

Here are the few types of motorcycles that can be driven with an A2 license.

The standard motorcycle

The standard motorcycle has a simple design and is suitable for all uses. Its engine can vary from 125 cc to 1000 cc. It can be equipped with a luggage rack or a tank bag.

It does not normally come with a large front fairing and its ergonomics are fairly neutral as it is not very inclined either forward or backward. The seat height can comfortably accommodate almost anyone.

However, some high-powered models do require bridling in order to comply with the A2 license.

The cruiser

The cruiser type bike usually has a slightly lower seat height than the standard model. This makes it a good city bike. Cruisers come in a variety of engine sizes, from a small displacement engine to 1,000cc or more depending on the brand.

When you think cruiser, Harley-Davidson may be the first brand that comes to mind. The "cruiser" motorcycle is indeed the same type as the Harley-Davidson.

The off-road motorcycle

This is

an off-road motorcycle that can go on any type of terrain. For this purpose, these motorcycles have a more aggressive and robust off-road suspension and possible ultra grippy off-road tires.

The seat height of the machine is usually a little higher than other types of motorcycles. Off-road bikes are generally suitable for big adventurers and even campers. They actually have enough room to put camping essentials.

The sport motorcycle

This is a popular type of motorcycle for its speed and agility coupled with excellent forward-facing ergonomics, ready to take on corners while riding.

One of the main advantages of the sport bike is its lightness. This is due to the fact that it is made from aluminum and lighter materials to increase its handling.

However, since its seat height is usually high, this bike is not for small bikers.

The touring motorcycle

This type of bike is usually larger than most other bikes on the market and it is mostly suitable for cross-country riding. This bike offers a large storage capacity with better ergonomics that allows you to ride for hours.

This type of bike can indeed carry a large amount of equipment. It also has a large fairing that effectively blocks wind and weather while riding. The size of its engine is usually substantial. This allows it to maintain a good pace and excellent driving stability on the highway.

A2 or A1 motorcycle?

Motorcycle A2

A2 motorcycles are motorcycles that offer a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.2 Kw/kg. They can have a displacement of more than 125 cc but their power must be less than 35 Kw (47 horsepower) for the safety of the rider. These models can include cruisers, off-road bikes or sport bikes.

With their imposing design and high power, A2 motorcycles are perfect for long distance travel. However, they are not recommended for short trips around town.

Motorcycle A1

A1 motorcycles have an engine that does not exceed 15 horsepower or 11 kW. They also have a displacement of less than 125 cc and a power/weight ratio of less than 0.1 Kw/kg. In the category of A1 motorcycles, we can find scooters and mopeds.

As their name indicates, A1 motorcycles are mainly intended for beginners. However, these types of motorcycles are easy to handle and very practical in large traffic areas, but are not recommended for traveling on highways or for very long distances.

Verdict

Basically, both types of motorcycles have their advantages and disadvantages, and to say that one is objectively better than the other is almost impossible. The choice between the two will depend entirely on your needs and desires.

For your small errands or short trips around town, a small A1 motorcycle will do the trick. On the other hand, for your long distance trips or your escapades on inhospitable tracks or others, an A2 will be more adapted and more comfortable.

Why buy an A2 motorcycle?

For its comfort and incredible performance

Large motorcycles are usually perfect for leisure and sport riding. Big rigs will give you the freedom to cruise the highways faster and more comfortably. Their extra power will also give you that exhilarating jolt with any twist of the throttle. If you're putting in a lot of miles in a day and looking for comfort at the speed limit, big bikes, with their incredible power and high-speed stability, will make all your journeys easy.

For its stability

Big bikes are often heavy. In fact, they can weigh between 180 kg and 300 kg or more. This weight allows them to maintain excellent stability when traveling at high speeds, whether on the highway or on rough terrain.

For its power

A2 motorcycles often have a lot of power and can go well beyond 40 horsepower unless they are bridled. This high power allows for easy maneuverability of the machine. Even at top speed, passing will be extremely easy, making these bikes a perfect choice for highway cruising. Each acceleration will make you experience a unique and vitaminized sensation.

For less pollution

Motorcycles are considerably more environmentally friendly than cars. They use fewer resources to get you where you want to go and to easily "weave" their way through city traffic. They also emit less CO2 because of their small size. There are even electric models that only need to be recharged on standard outlets.

For a safe value

Thanks to its exemplary sturdiness and imposing design, your A2 motorcycle will last you many years, especially if you maintain it properly. You can even customize it to suit your style. And even if a part of your bike stops working or is damaged, you won't have to buy a whole new bike. You can simply continue to replace parts as you see fit.

The best brands of A2 motorcycles

In our opinion, the best brands of A2 motorcycles in 2022 are :

Masai
Triumph
Kawasaki
Suzuki
BMW

It is one of the many brands belonging to the deltamics group. The brand is best known for its wide range of motorcycles and quads. If you are looking for vintage motorcycles, you will find good quality models at Masai. The brand is on its way to success with its more than 100,000 motorized products sold in the UK at the end of 2015.

Triumph is a motorcycle brand that started in 1885 in England thanks to German Siegfried Bettman. The brand is especially appreciated for the high power of its motorcycles and their consistent robustness. The Speed Triple and the T509 with its 885 cc triple injection engine stand out. Then there are its sporty bikes, namely its 650 cc, 675 cc three-cylinder and 600 cc four-cylinder models.

Kawasaki

started as a shipyard in 1878 and only became interested in motorcycles in 1949. The Japanese brand owes its popularity to the fastest motorcycle of the time: the famous H2. Faced with the success of the giants Yamaha and Honda in the field, Kawasaki finally decided to specialize in supersports, cross-country and custom bikes. In 2000, it became more and more appreciated for its ultra high performance motorcycle that can run at 300 km/h: the Kawasaki ZX-12 R.

Founded in March 1920, Suzuki is a Japanese brand that is best known for its many ultra powerful and futuristically designed cars, including the Swift, Vitara, etc. The brand is also one of the four major Japanese leaders in the motorcycle industry and owes its popularity to the Van Van motorcycles, the Burgman 650, the Skywave 250 maxi Scooter... Motorcycles that are as powerful as they are rugged.

At its beginnings in 1923, BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke manufactured aircraft engines. It was not until 1948 that the brand was officially allowed to manufacture motorcycles again. It became popular mainly because of its flat-twin motorcycles. This is an internal combustion engine that runs on two pistons moving horizontally in the same plane. The motorcycles of the brand are expensive but worth the price.

What is the price for an A2 motorcycle

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
2000 £ to 3500 £
Mid-range
3500 £ to 6000 £
High-end
more than 6000 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Read the driver's manual carefully and expand your riding horizons

The more you know about your bike, the better you'll be able to understand potential problems that may arise. The rider's manual is a wealth of information that will tell you everything you need to know about your two-wheeler.

So, read it carefully to become familiar with your machine and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Also consider expanding your horizons by joining a car/bike club to help you solve any motorcycle problems more easily.

Change your oil regularly

Like any motorized vehicle, a motorcycle absolutely requires regular oil changes. In general, your motorcycle will need an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 km. You should also be aware that, generally speaking, your two-wheeler will consume more oil in summer than in winter. Oil filters should also be changed regularly along with the oil.

Check your brake pads regularly

Inspect your brake pads from time to time and make sure they are still thick and effective to avoid fatal accidents. Once they are about 2 millimeters thick or less, replace them. Experienced mechanics recommend checking your pads every 10,000 to 15,000 km.

In any case, the amount of wear on your bike's brakes will depend mostly on your riding habits and the type of terrain you are used to riding on. If you constantly ride on steep hills, or on trails that require frequent starts and stops, your brake pads will wear out more quickly.

Check your tires and inflate them to the proper inflation level

Tire maintenance is essential to keep a motorcycle running smoothly. Be sure to check the condition of your tires before a long trip. Make sure there are no signs of damage such as tears, holes or cracks, and that the tread depth is within recommended levels.

Properly inflated tires provide a stable, safe and grippy ride. This makes handling and braking your two-wheeler less of a strain on you. Use a regular tire pressure gauge to check your tire pressure, but remember to do this only when your tires are cold. Warm tires fresh off the road give incorrect pressure readings.

Clean your air filter regularly

To keep your bike performing at all times, consider cleaning its air filter every 10,000 km. If you ride in an extremely dusty environment, clean your air filter every week. On the other hand, if you ride in areas that are not too dusty, space your filter cleanings considerably. In any case, always take good care of your air filter regularly.

FAQ

What motorcycle can I ride with an A2 license ?

Once you are the lucky holder of an A2 license, you are now allowed to ride category A1 motorcycles and those with or without a sidecar whose engine provides a maximum of 35 kW (47.5 hp) and whose power-to-weight ratio does not exceed 0.2 kW/kg.

How much does an A2 license cost ?

If you are considering taking the A2 license tests, be aware that it will cost you a total of between €700 and €1200. This package includes your registration fee, 12 hours of riding, 8 hours of riding time, 20 hours of compulsory driving, and the fees for the practical exams.

What motorcycle can I take with an A2 license ?

With an A2 license, you have a wide range of motorcycles to choose from, including trail bikes like a V-Strom 650 or a BMW F 750/850 GS, roadsters like a Kawasaki Z650 or a Yamaha MT07 for example, sport bikes like a Ninja 300, a Honda CBR 500Rs, or a Kawasaki ninja 650. And finally, you can ride customs like the famous Harley Davidson.

My motorcycle refuses to start. Where can the problem come from ?

Your motorcycle may refuse to start for various reasons. It may be that the battery is weak. So try priming it with a battery booster. If the problem persists after that, the clutch switch may need to be operated or the machine may not be in neutral. Also, make sure the fuel is flowing. If not, consider removing and cleaning the fuel lines on your bike. Another problem that can prevent your motorcycle from starting is a loss of ignition caused by water infiltration during a ride in the rain, for example.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
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  2. which 125 to start riding? Choosing your 125 motorcycle, moto-securite.f
  3. Motorcycle license : A2 license (intermediate power motorcycle), service-public.fr
  4. Why ride a 125cc, adoctra.com
  5. Driving a 125cc will be allowed from 16 years old from 2021, actumoto.ch
  6. The categories of motorcycle, toutsurlamoto.com
  7. Finding a motorcycle for a small size, lesbikeuses.fr
  8. 5 criteria to choose a motorcycle for women, tendance-parisienne.com
  9. Women and motorcycles : what are the brakes and why start ?, auto-ecole.net
  10. Motorcycle license 2020 : what's new?, moncoyote.com
  11. List of eligible A2 motorcycles with 475 horsepower and 34 horsepower 34 ..., moto-station.com
  12. A2 motorcycle : The top 10 best motorcycles with an A2 license, salon-pts.com
  13. Buyer's guide for motorcycles that can be ridden with an A2 license, motoservices.com
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  15. List of compatible motorcycles and scooters with an A2 license (less than ..., motomag.com
  16. A2 license : Which motorcycles for young drivers, lerepairedesmotards.com
  17. A2 motorcycle license which motorcycle to choose to start with? - Motocard, motocard.com
  18. Ducati - A2 license, ducati.com
  19. TOP MOTO A2 2020 | Moto-A2.fr, moto-a2.fr
  20. Motorcycle license : A2 license (motorcycle of intermediate power ..., service-public.fr
  21. Permis A2 - Motorcycles in 35 kW and less that you can drive, motoservices.com
  22. Buying advice : Which A2 motorcycle to choose ? - ..., atelierdeshommes.fr
  23. A2 motorcycle : our selection of young license | BMW Motorrad, bmw-motorrad.fr
  24. Choosing your first A2 motorcycle - Part 1 - Motorcycle license, motoblouz.com
  25. Cafe Racer A2 : our 10 best young license motorcycles (...), cafe-racer-only.com
  26. A2 license motorcycle : 300 cm³ or 47 horsepower motorcycle ..., motoblouz.com
  27. Tips and Advice for Young Motorcyclists | Moto-A2.fr, moto-a2.fr
  28. a2 used motorcycle - Search for used motorcycles - Le Parking-Moto, leparking-moto.fr
  29. Which motorcycle to choose with an A2 license, permisapoints.fr
  30. All new 2020 motorcycles for less than €7,000! (A2 license), moto-station.com
  31. Choose your A2 motorcycle : bridled or not ? - Passion Moto Sécurité, moto-securite.fr
  32. Kawasaki range compatible with A2 license - Kawasaki France, kawasaki.fr
  33. TOP 10 of the best motorcycles to start (A2 compatible), blog.la-becanerie.com
  34. A2 motorcycle license : our 2019 selection of the best ..., auto-moto.com
  35. The best motorcycles to start in A2 | GmonCode.fr, gmoncode.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Masai VISION 5K electric motorcycle 9
Masai VISION 5K electric motorcycle
Masai Furious 125cc 10
Masai Furious 125cc
Kawasaki Z650 2021 11
Kawasaki Z650 2021
Suzuki SV 650 12
Suzuki SV 650

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