No. 1 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 300

Photo: Kawasaki

It possesses all the desirable styling and mechanical attributes of larger bikes, with its ZX-10R inspired modern dual headlight front fairing, tapered saddle, teardrop minimalist rear end, and fairing-mounted turn signal lamps. The superior handling characteristics, ABS brakes, new clutch design that reduces back-torque, re-engineered frame, and fuel-injected liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine are perfectly suited for beginners.