£1000 Bike Challenge: Can You Still Buy a Decent Starter Motorcycle in the UK?
Can you really get yourself a good beginner bike in the UK for just £1,000? That’s the challenge we set Liam in this Moto Planet feature. What started as a sceptical hunt through AutoTrader and Facebook Marketplace ended up with a surprise purchase, a proper test ride, and a few unexpected laughs along the way. This is the £1000 Beginner Bike Challenge – presented by Liam Simm.
From dodgy listings to green-painted reality, this video dives into whether a cheap starter bike can genuinely deliver a worthwhile riding experience. Let’s break it down.
Setup & Rules
The challenge was simple: find a beginner bike for £1,000 or less. Liam’s conditions were clear – it had to be a usable 125cc machine, not a nicked or bodged-together project. Moto Planet did the hard work behind the scenes, eventually sourcing a Benelli BN125 in a very loud shade of green. That became the test subject for the day.
The Bike Involved
The chosen ride turned out to be the Benelli BN125. On paper, it looked like this:
- 125cc engine with 11hp
- 10Nm torque at 7,000rpm
- Fuel economy: around 100mpg from a 13.5L tank
- Range: roughly 420 miles
- Market value: £1,000–£1,500
Visibly, it bore the scars of its past life: scrapes, cracks, and plenty of cosmetic quirks. But at least it ran, and that’s half the battle when shopping at this price point.
The Ride Experience
Liam’s test route was a mix of town traffic, dual carriageways, and even a cheeky McDonald’s drive-thru. The bike’s light weight and easy handling suited beginner-friendly riding, but performance was, as expected, limited.
The spongy suspension, buzzy vibration at higher speeds, and limited power meant it wasn’t going to thrill seasoned riders. But as a first step into biking? It ticked some boxes.
Surprises & Problems
While the bike did its job of keeping costs low, a few things stood out:
- Slow acceleration and limited top speed.
- Brakes and suspension lacked precision, though still workable.
- Cosmetic wear highlighted how budget-friendly this machine was.
On the flip side, the affordability, fuel economy, and simplicity made it approachable for learners and city riders.
Verdict – Was It Worth It?
So, can you buy a good beginner bike for £1,000? Against all odds, yes. The Benelli BN125 won’t win style or performance awards, but it does provide an accessible entry point for new riders. For short commutes, practice miles, and first-time ownership, it’s a budget-friendly way into biking life. Just don’t expect it to handle motorways or long tours with much confidence.
Pros
- Extremely affordable entry point to biking
- Light and easy to handle for learners
- Cheap to run with excellent mpg
- Ideal for short trips and urban riding
Cons
- Very slow acceleration and limited top speed
- Spongy suspension and vague braking feel
- Cosmetic wear common at this price
- Not suited for longer-distance or motorway use
Key Takeaways
- A £1000 beginner bike is possible, but expect compromises.
- The Benelli BN125 proves budget 125s can still serve a purpose.
- Ideal for learners, commuters, or short-distance riders.
- For serious performance or touring, you’ll need a bigger budget.
£1000 Beginner Bike Challenge – UK FAQ
Yes, but expect compromises in condition, performance, and features. Bikes like the Benelli BN125 prove it’s possible if you shop carefully.
Common budget-friendly options include the Benelli BN125, Lexmoto models, and older Japanese 125s like the YBR. Condition matters more than badge at this price.
Reliability varies. A well-maintained budget bike can be fine for commuting and learning, but expect more wear and tear than on a newer machine.
Legally, yes, but most 125s struggle at higher speeds. A £1000 bike is best kept to town riding, backroads, and short commutes.
Look at the logbook, service history, condition of tyres and brakes, signs of crash damage, and whether all electrics work properly.
Yes, for short-distance and learner use. It’s light, affordable, and easy to ride, though limited in performance for longer trips.
Need proper storage for your first bike? Check out our motorcycle tank bags and luggage – ideal for everyday commuting and weekend rides.