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New Zealand's Most Popular Motorbikes

Here’s a look at motorbikes that are consistently top sellers in the New Zealand market.
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New Zealand's Most Popular Motorbikes

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If you are shopping for a motorbike in New Zealand, then you will be pleasantly surprised by all the available options. From Asia to the United States, you can find lots of excellent global brands for sale in New Zealand.

So who should you get started with your motorbike search? It’s a good idea to look at some of the top-selling motorbikes in the country.

Here’s a look at motorbikes that are consistently top sellers in the New Zealand market.

1). Yamaha Tenere 700

A man in full motorcycling gear riding a Yamaha Tenere 700 in an offroadIf you want a narrow sports bike that’s also great for touring rides, then the popular Yamaha Tenere 700 is going to be the choice for you. Powered by a 689cc liquid-cooled, inline twin-cylinder engine, the Tenere 700 provides you with ample power for fun rides both on the road and offroad.

For those who like to get dirty, the long-travel suspension will provide you with the capability that you need to handle some of the most challenging terrains. Finally, Yamaha bikes are known for their long-term reliability so it’s a solid choice for the price.

2). Suzuki DR650SE

As one of the most popular dual-purpose bikes out there, the Suzuki DR650SE should be on anyone’s list. This top-seller is powered by a 644cc, oil-cooled, four-stroke, single engine that provides a smooth cruise as well as comfortable power on your favourite trail.

Durability is also top-notch with strong steel, semi-double cradle frame that makes it a great long-term choice. Finally, pricing on the Suzuki DR650SE is excellent given the build quality and the performance.

3). Kawasaki Ninja 400

A new Kawasaki Ninja 400 – a 399 cc Ninja series sport bike first released by Kawasaki in 1994When you want lots of power, then you have to take a look at the Kawasaki Ninja 400. With the largest displacement in the category at 399cc, you get smooth power that is complemented by its low ride height and aggressive styling.

Other top features found on the Kawasaki Ninja 400 include a Uni-Trak® rear suspension, 310mm semi-floating petal front disc brake, twin LED headlights, and high-grade multifunction dash instrumentation. Overall, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is an excellent performer and one of the most attractive motorbikes on the market.

4). Yamaha YZF-R3

A blue Yamaha YZF-R3 – a perfect motorbike for beginners as the bike is lightweight, making it easy to maneuverLike to take your motorbike to the track? Then you will want to put the Yamaha YZF-R3 at the top of your list. With its superbike styling, lightweight construction, and 321cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC inline twin-cylinder, you have a bike that is going to provide you with lots of speed and tons of fun.

This ultra-lightweight bike comes in at only 375 pounds with a seat height of only 30.7 inches. That means that you have a motorbike that is designed to deliver excellent racing performance.

5). Harley-Davidson Street 500

A lady riding a Harley Davidson Street 500 on paved roadFor those who love a stylish cruise, The Harley-Davidson Street 500 is going to be your ride of choice. The 500cc liquid-cooled revolution x engine features a blackout design that delivers excellent cruise power making it an ideal touring motorbike.

Thanks to its big power and large-scale design, this Harley is ideal for beginner riders. Therefore, you should certainly take a look at Street 500 if you are looking for your first motorbike.

6). Suzuki GSX150 Gixxer

Need a motorbike for daily commutes and weekend fun? Then you have to see what the Suzuki GSX150 Gixxer has to offer. This sporty bike is also a great first bike for those who are looking for something easy to handle.

Some top features of the GSX150 GIxxer include bold and sporty graphics, a clear lens LED tail lamp, an ultra-lightweight engine, and automatic headline-on capability.

7). Suzuki GSX250R

If you are looking for some more power in a Suzuki motorbike, then check out the Suzuki SX250R. This bike is easy to ride and provides you with confident power thanks to its 248cc, parallel-twin engine.

When it comes to style, the GSX250R delivers with its aggressive looks that stay loyal to its Suzuki sportbike heritage. Top Features of the SX250R include a back-lit multifunction LCD instrumentation panel and turn signals feature amber incandescent bulbs.

8). KTM Duke 200

 KTM 200 Duke – a 199.5 cc single-cylinder standard motorcycle made by KTM The KTM Duke 200 combines lots of power with everyday rideability. Top performance features of the Duke 200 include an ultra-compact, water-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine, dual-channel ABS, and the ultralight tubular trellis frame.

Another thing that you have to love about the Duke 200 is its unique look. Its bold graphics and aggressive styling make it stand out in the crowd. This is certainly the bike of choice for those who want the looks with the performance to back it up.

9). Yamaha MT-03

This is the bike of choice for those who want a racing performance with a serious street presence. The Yamaha MT-03 is a lightweight, naked-design motorbike that is powered by an excellent 321cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke engine.

Other features on the MT-03 include an aggressive front light assembly as well as bold air scoops and a sculpted fuel tank. Overall, this is a great bike for those who like to go fast and look good when standing still.

10). Honda Shadow Phantom

When you want an understated bike that provides you with confident reliability, then check out the Honda Shadow Phantom. This top-quality bike features a blacked-out 745cc V-twin with beefy twin exhausts.

The Shadow Phantom is a great choice for those who want a motorbike almost exclusively for long-range cruising and daily commutes. Its comfortable seat is ideal for older and larger-sized riders.

Top Choices

Top pick for performance: Kawasaki Ninja 400

Top pick for new riders: Harley-Davidson Street 500

Top pick for cruising: Honda Shadow Phantom

Discovering the Right Motorbike for You

Each one of the motorbikes on the list has its unique style and performance features that may be ideal for you. Be sure to test-ride as many motorbikes that fit your taste and your budget. You are sure to find the motorbike that is ideal for you.

Need a motorbike shipped to you? Wise Move can help. Get door-to-door motorcycle transportation from New Zealand's most trusted motorbike movers here.

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Te Awamutu
Dunedin
10
James
Reviewed 7 hours ago
Friendly service and will recommend to others.
$350
Te Kowhai
New Zealand, Hastings
10
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Reviewed 11 hours ago
great service as always.
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Te Atatu Peninsula, Auckland
Blenheim
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Reviewed 12 hours ago
Great service transporting my husbands motorbike from Auckland to Blenheim. Great comms & care of bike! Highly recommend. Thanks Jason & Justin.
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Motorcycle Suzuki TS250
Bombay
Oamaru North, Oamaru
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Reviewed 2 days ago
Fantastic experience here. On time, intact and very friendly folk. Great comms. I’ve used a lot of other companies in the past but these guys lead the field now. Will use again for sure. AAA+ service
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Motorcycle Honda Giorno
Penrose, Auckland
Southgate, Wellington
10
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Reviewed 2 days ago
I am happy with Harley’s work. He made his best effort to fit the work into his schedule and delivered my bike as soon as he can.
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Auckland
10
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Reviewed 3 days ago
Absolutely fantastic. Highly highly recommend. Andy was great to deal with, very reliable, great communication and not one complaint on our end. Would gladly use these guys again
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Motorcycle Vespa PX
Ellerslie, Auckland
Burnside, Christchurch
10
John
Reviewed 3 days ago
Firstly, choosing Wise Move is great idea, one quote request garners options, and I was so fortunate Gavin responded. Communication was excellent and very comforting knowing my collection in Auckland was being taken care of. Speed of delivery and transaction blew me away too. This time last week I was still in 2 minds thinking whether or not to commit to the purchase and now it’s been delivered here in ChCh. Less than 5 days from accepting the quote. I thoroughly recommend this service and will pass this on to friends too. Thank you PS value for money too :)
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Motorcycle Suzuki RGV250 VJ21A
Tauriko, Tauranga
Waimataitai, Timaru
10
Alex
Reviewed 3 days ago
Why choose Traxx Direct Transport? We ship a fair few bikes around NZ each month. We trust Traxx Direct Transport with our own and customers machines. Leona and Ra are absolute professionals... from the point of initial contact to changes in the plan (ferry cancelations) through to completion. I was kept in the loop the whole time and the bike delivered to its new owner without issue. Don't take my word for it, use Traxx Direct yourself and find out just how good they REALLY are! Thanks from all of us at Adrenalyn Motorcycles!

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