Nearly new bikes are a total bargain right now. Here are five middleweights I'd take a good look at
Next year sees the introduction of Euro5+ regs, a move that has forced manufacturers to update their ranges. This has resulted in a huge array of ‘new for 2025’ models that are all cleaner-running, but aside from a few small tweaks here and there, when you dig deeper you discover that many are not that different from their predecessors.
If you aren’t fussed about running a ’25 plate, there are lots of used bikes that are just as good as new but will save you thousands.
Related: Buying guide for kit for naked bike riders
Here are five great nearly new used middleweight buys…
MCN Recommended: 2017 – 2024 Honda CMX500 Rebel – £3500 – £5500
A surprisingly charming and popular middleweight cruiser
Spec:
- Power: 45bhp
- Engine capacity: 471cc
- Seat height: 690mm
- Kerb weight: 190kg
Regularly Europe’s best-selling custom, the Honda CMX500 Rebel arrived in 2017 and instantly won an army of fans. Light, easy-going and oddly cool, the Rebel’s 16in balloon tyres give it a unique look and yet don’t seem to adversely affect its handling. A charming machine that is fun to ride and has a reassuringly low 690mm seat, the A2-legal Rebel gains a new dash and revised seating position for 2025, which are hardly game-changers. A great urban cruiser with bags of spirit.
Honda CMX500 Rebel used buying advice
- The Rebel was updated in 2020 with new suspension settings and a gear indicator added to the dash. It’s not a major change, so don’t get hung up on buying this generation, the original is just as good.
- The Special Edition is simply a stock Rebel with a headlight fairing and fork gaiters added. It’s a touch more practical than the base bike.
- The black finish on the exhaust is pretty poor, often leading to rust spots. Owners also report the paint on the fork legs chips off easily.
- Ensure there is no misting in the dash, it is known to let water in, which can lead to electrical issues.
2005 – 2008 Suzuki DR-Z400SM – £3000 – £4500
Suzuki’s lightweight and fun supermoto
Spec:
- Power: 39bhp
- Engine capacity: 398cc
- Seat height: 890mm
- Kerb weight: 146kg
Suzuki have reintroduced their DR-Z400 for 2025, but are they that new? Yes, you get modern tech, but the single has the same capacity and makes the same power as the previous DR-Z while the bikes are almost indistinguishable! The SM with its 17in wheels, uprated brakes and road-focused suspension is a better option than the S unless you plan on doing some green laning.
Suzuki DR-Z400SM used buying advice
- The dual purpose S model comes with longer-travel suspension, an 18in rear and 21in front wheel and a two-piston front caliper.
- Check the steering lock works, a lot of DR-Zs get stolen. It is worth performing an HPI check, too.
- Be wary of smoke on start-up that hints at worn piston rings or top-end damage. Always check the bike is cold when first started. Lots of DR-Zs have performance upgrades, just be cautious as this can make the usually bulletproof motor fragile.
2021 – 2024 Aprilia RS660 – £6000 – £9999
Aprilia’s tech-heavy middleweight sportsbike
Spec:
- Power: 99bhp
- Engine capacity: 659cc
- Seat height: 820mm
- Kerb weight: 183kg
All too often middleweights end up lacking tech in the name of cost-savings – not so with the Aprilia RS660. Aprilia threw every piece of tech they had at the RS and it puts some sportsbikes to shame. Fun, sporty and yet never intimidating, the RS660 is great to ride but reliability and finish are a bit of a worry on used ones. For 2025 it gains aero, updated electronics and a 5bhp boost.
Aprilia RS660 used buying advice
- Leaks from the coolant system are common, inspect the area around the water pump as its seal is one of the first to fail. There are also a few reports of oil leaks.
- Electrical issues with the quickshifter are common and some owners have even had the gearchange spline strip due to a loose connector lever
- The finish isn’t great, so check for marks and be wary of stickers that might be hiding damage. The tank and swingarm are prone to scuffs.
2014 – 2022 Yamaha MT-07 – £3500 – £6000
Yamaha’s smash-hit middleweight master
Spec:
- Power: 73.8bhp
- Engine capacity: 689cc
- Seat height: 805mm
- Kerb weight: 179kg
While the 2025 Yamaha MT-07 has gained extra style and tech (inverted forks, traction control etc), its engine and chassis are largely unchanged and these are what make it so special. The parallel twin punches out just the right balance between performance and easy-going torque and although the MT’s suspension has never been its strong point, the rest of the chassis is spot-on.
Yamaha MT-07 used buying advice
- Inspect the exhaust well for any signs of leaks. It’s a one-piece unit and therefore changing it is costly.
- The MT’s suspension is a weak point. Check the forks for weeping seals and the shock for its damping qualities. Ideally, get the forks rebuilt and the shock replaced with an aftermarket unit, it makes a world of difference.
- The finish is a bit sub-standard, once corrosion sets in it is impossible to get on top of again. Buy a good one and keep it that way.
2021 – 2024 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone – £6000 – £8000
Authentic retro charm and character at its best
Spec:
- Power: 64bhp
- Engine capacity: 853cc
- Seat height: 780mm
- Kerb weight: 233kg
Reborn in 2008, the Moto Guzzi V7 has been a big seller thanks to its relaxed nature and authentic vibe. But don’t think it is lacking in tech, the V7 has come with traction control and ABS since the MKII (2014). But what makes the V7 appealing is that it doesn’t get lost in tech – its 853cc air-cooled twin’s character, and with it the heritage of Guzzi, is allowed to shine through.
Moto Guzzi V7 Stone used buying advice
- If you want an early 744cc bike, buy the MKIII (2017-2020) as it has an updated gearbox, clutch and chassis, making it far less agricultural to ride.
- The V-twin requires a service every 6000 miles with a valve#2;clearance check included in the job. Happily, it’s pretty cheap at around £300 because access is good.
- The Stone is the base model with the Special adding dual clocks, spoke wheels, extra chrome details and unique paint schemes.
