Many people crave a weekend escape after a demanding work week, and a motorcycle can be the perfect way to de-stress. Finding a bike that’s suitable for both urban commutes and weekend adventures, while also being affordable, can be a challenge. This article highlights ten motorcycles priced under $10,000, ideal for those seeking an accessible and enjoyable riding experience beyond the daily grind. These range from an affordable Harley-Davidson cruiser to a capable Kawasaki adventure bike, offering options for various riding styles and budgets.
The information presented here is based on data sourced from reputable manufacturers including Harley-Davidson USA, Triumph Motorcycles USA, Royal Enfield USA, CFMoto Motorcycles USA, Honda Powersports USA, KTM USA, and Kawasaki Motorcycles USA, ensuring accuracy and up-to-date specifications for the 2025 models (unless otherwise noted).
The List: Motorcycles for Weekend Adventures
Here’s a breakdown of ten budget-friendly motorcycles, listed from most to least expensive:
Harley-Davidson Nightster
Price: $9,999
The Harley-Davidson Nightster provides an accessible entry point to the thrill of American V-twin power. Designed for comfortable highway cruising and nimble handling, it weighs 483 pounds with a low 27.1-inch seat height, making it appealing to relaxed riders. A liquid-cooled 975cc V-twin engine delivers 91 horsepower and 72 pound-feet of torque, making it a capable and stylish option for weekend getaways. This bike offers a classic American riding experience without breaking the bank.
Specs: 975cc V-twin, 91 hp, 72 lb-ft torque, 483 lbs
Triumph Tiger Sport 660
Price: $9,695
The Triumph Tiger Sport 660 stands out as the most powerful touring motorcycle under $10,000. Its 660cc inline-3 engine produces 81 horsepower and 47 pound-feet of torque, combined with a low curb weight of 456 pounds, creating a commendable power-to-weight ratio. An upright riding position, a tall windscreen, and a suite of technology including cornering ABS, traction control, three ride modes, cruise control, and a two-way quickshifter enhance the riding experience. This bike is well-equipped for long-distance touring and comfortable daily riding.
Specs: 660cc inline-3, 81 hp, 47 lb-ft torque, 456 lbs
Honda CB650R E-Clutch
Price: $9,399
The Honda CB650R is a striking neo-retro naked bike with a sweet-revving 649cc four-cylinder engine (relatively rare in the middleweight class), producing around 94 horsepower and 47 pound-feet of torque. Its standout feature is the “e-clutch” system, which allows riders to start and stop without engaging the clutch. This innovative system offers three modes (Hard, Medium, and Soft) to tailor the riding experience, making it exceptionally user-friendly. Its combination of style and ease of use makes this a compelling choice.
Specs: 649cc four-cylinder, 94 hp, 47 lb-ft torque
Honda NX500
Price: $7,399
Despite not being a dedicated off-road machine, the Honda NX500 is a versatile “do-it-all” adventure bike. It features a proven 471cc parallel-twin engine producing strong mid-range torque and weighs a manageable 432 pounds with a seat height of 32.8 inches. Its blend of urban agility and moderate off-road capability makes it an excellent choice for weekend escapes.
Specs: 471cc parallel-twin, 47 hp, 32.8 inch seat height, 432 lbs
Kawasaki KLE500
Price: $6,599
Kawasaki is reintroducing the KLE nameplate to the US market. The new KLE500 features long-travel suspension, knobby all-purpose tires, durable laced wheels, and factory-installed protective components. Positioned between the Versys-X 300 and the KLR650, it packs a familiar 451cc parallel-twin engine. This bike caters to those seeking a rugged adventure bike capable of tackling mountain roads.
Specs: 451cc parallel-twin
CFMoto Ibex 450
Price: $6,499
The CFMoto Ibex 450 seamlessly blends urban mobility and outdoor thrills. Powered by a versatile 449cc parallel-twin engine also found in a streetfighter and sports bike, it features fully adjustable KYB suspension and factory-installed saddle adjustments, a tall windscreen, and switchable ABS. This beginner-friendly adventure bike is perfect for quick weekend escapes.
Specs: 449cc parallel-twin, KYB suspension
KTM 390 Adventure X
Price: $6,499
This is the more budget-friendly option in the KTM 390 Adventure lineup. The X utilizes the same 399cc single-cylinder mill as the 390 Duke, but features smaller wheels, road-focused tires, and reduced suspension travel. Despite its differences, it remains capable of handling beginner-friendly trails. Its compact size, light weight, and comfortable riding position make it a solid choice for weekend adventures.
Specs: 399cc single-cylinder
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
Price: $5,799
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is a versatile adventure bike with a newly developed liquid-cooled 452cc engine – the first liquid-cooled engine from Royal Enfield. It is highly adaptable and performs well on urban roads, highways, and off-road. The Himalayan 450 stands out with its adjustable saddle and relaxed riding triangle for ultimate riding comfort.
Specs: 452cc single-cylinder, KYB suspension
Kawasaki Z500
Price: $5,599
The Kawasaki Z500 is an aggressive-looking naked sports bike that doesn’t compromise on urban riding skills. Its 451cc parallel-twin engine produces 51 horsepower and 31.7 pound-feet of torque, and it weighs a light 366 pounds with a low 30.9-inch seat height. This Z is a powerful and accessible naked sportbike ideal for short riders seeking fast weekend getaways.
Specs: 451cc parallel-twin, 51 hp, 30.9 inch seat height
KTM 390 Enduro R
Price: $5,499
This dual-sport motorcycle, powered by a versatile engine, boasts a compact, slim form factor and a light weight, providing breezy riding dynamics. Its eagerness stems from the performance curve featuring 44 horsepower and 28.8 pound-feet of torque, it is ideal for weekend trail exploration.
Specs: 399cc single-cylinder, 10.7 inch ground clearance
Conclusion
These ten motorcycles offer a diverse range of styles and capabilities, all while remaining accessible in terms of price. Whether seeking a comfortable cruiser, a rugged adventure bike, or a sporty naked bike, there’s an option on this list to suit a variety of riding preferences and budgets, opening the door for many to experience the freedom and enjoyment of motorcycle riding beyond the daily commute.
