A very flexible little beginner motorcycle that's capable and fun in both pavement and offroad settings.

cfl230l

Pros
Low seat height (for a dual sport) and low weight make it manageable for beginners
Offroad ability offers more riding options than street-only bikes
Time-tested design should be reliable and durable
Cons
A bit underpowered for freeway speed riding
Might be small for larger-framed riders, and pegs are a bit narrow during offroading
No-frills instrumentation might make you jealous of fancier starter bikes
Description
MSRP: $4,499
223cc air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine
Six-speed transmission
37mm Showa fork with 9 inches travel
Pro-Link Showa single shock rear suspension with spring preload adjustability and 6.3 inches travel
Seat height: 31.9 inches
Curb weight: 267 lbs
Fuel capacity: 2.3 gallons, including .7 gallon reserve
One year warranty against material and workmanship defects
Available only in red

Honda

Guide Review - 2009 Honda CRF230L Dual Purpose Motorcycle
Flashy big bore motorcycles might scorch the pavement with their raw horsepower, but the humble little Honda CRF230L dual-sport motorcycle is a far better choice for beginner riders for many reasons. This dual sport is lightweight and easy to ride, with an unassuming single-cylinder 223cc engine that provides enough thrust for around-town errands though it's in no danger of behaving too menacingly at higher speeds.
The small saddle on this Honda motorcycle isn't exactly made for long haul riding, but that's easily forgiven since the CRF230L's front and rear suspension provides a plush ride. The view over the handlebars is clean and simple, with optional hand guards offering protection from offroad obstacles. Away from paved roads, the 37mm Showa fork and Pro-Link rear suspension offer enough travel to soak up serious ruts and bumps, though heavier riders might bottom out on especially demanding terrain. An electric starter (without a backup kick start) reflects the 230L's tame city orientation, though its ability to shred a trail gives it a compelling argument over street-only starter bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja 250R motorcycle.
When speed needs to be scrubbed off, 240mm front and 220mm rear disc brakes do an ample but not overwhelming job of slowing down the CRF230L. If anything, the brakes are aptly suited to the bike's relatively tame personality and they'll be just fine for the mild-mannered, fun-seeking rider that might choose a CRF230L. At the end of the day, the motorcycle has a few shortcomings like its narrow footpegs or its wheeziness at freeway speeds are almost negligible in contrast to its well balanced offroad and onroad abilities. Honda has a winner in this small dual-sport motorcycle designed for beginners who want the ability to hit trails and pavement with equal enthusiasm. This little Honda CRF230L offers a reasonably priced and unintimidating way to have fun. Remember to always wear your helmet, ride safe, and have fun!