Choosing your first "real" motorcycle with an A2 license is exciting but also stressful. The choice is overwhelming, opinions are contradictory, and your budget isn't unlimited. After helping dozens of new riders choose their ride, here's my real-world comparison of the 10 best A2 motorcycles in 2026.
A2 License Rules
As a reminder, the A2 license limits power to 35 kW (47.5 hp) and the power-to-weight ratio to 0.2 kW/kg. Some motorcycles are natively A2-compliant, others are restricted from more powerful versions. A quality restriction kit doesn't ruin the riding experience, but you need to budget for it (200-400 EUR at a dealer).
The Full Comparison
| Model | Displacement | A2 Power | Weight | Seat Height | Price 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CB500F | 471 cc | 47.5 hp native | 189 kg | 785 mm | 6,699 EUR |
| Yamaha MT-07 | 689 cc | 47.5 hp (restricted) | 184 kg | 805 mm | 7,499 EUR |
| KTM 390 Duke | 373 cc | 44 hp native | 171 kg | 820 mm | 6,199 EUR |
| Kawasaki Z400 | 399 cc | 45 hp native | 167 kg | 785 mm | 5,999 EUR |
| Suzuki SV650 | 645 cc | 47.5 hp (restricted) | 197 kg | 785 mm | 7,199 EUR |
| Royal Enfield Meteor 350 | 349 cc | 20 hp native | 191 kg | 765 mm | 4,599 EUR |
| Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 | 373 cc | 44 hp native | 163 kg | 835 mm | 6,499 EUR |
| Honda CBR500R | 471 cc | 47.5 hp native | 194 kg | 785 mm | 7,199 EUR |
| Benelli TRK 502 | 500 cc | 47.5 hp native | 235 kg | 800 mm | 6,299 EUR |
| Kawasaki Ninja 400 | 399 cc | 45 hp native | 168 kg | 785 mm | 6,499 EUR |
My Top 3 Picks
Honda CB500F — The Safe Bet
The CB500F is the quintessential A2 bike. Natively 47.5 hp, no restriction needed. The parallel twin is smooth, the riding position upright and comfortable, and Honda reliability speaks for itself. Used models from 2022-2024 go for 4,500-5,500 EUR with low mileage. This is the bike I recommend without hesitation to beginners who want hassle-free riding.
Yamaha MT-07 — Raw Fun
The MT-07's CP2 twin is arguably the best engine in the segment. Even restricted to 47.5 hp, it delivers generous torque and sensations few A2 bikes can match. The downside: it requires a restriction kit (around 300 EUR at Yamaha), and its lightness combined with the torque can catch a true beginner off guard. If you have some prior experience (125cc before), go for it.
KTM 390 Duke — The Accessible Sports Bike
The 390 Duke is a scalpel: 171 kg, sharp chassis, excellent Bybre brakes. The single-cylinder vibrates a bit on the highway, but in town and on country roads, it's a delight. The TFT dashboard with connectivity is a real bonus. Watch out for reliability on early models — aim for 2022 onwards.
