The 600–900 cc naked bike class: which suits whom?

After getting the A licence, the first class most riders look at is 600–900 cc naked bikes. There is no fairing, the riding position is upright, and the motorcycle is fun both in the city and on a twisty road. This class, ranging from 70 hp to 120 hp, is the natural next step for a rider coming from A2; for an experienced rider it is a performance motorcycle that can be used every day. In this guide we look at the class in three bands and explain which model suits whom with data from the Pusulamoto catalogue.

Before moving up to this class

• Licence: All the models in this guide are in the A class in the catalogue. After riding for at least 2 years on an A2 licence you can move up to A; details are on the licence page.
• Tax: The 2026 annual motor vehicle tax (MTV) for a motorcycle in the 651–1200 cc bracket is 5,719 TL a year at age 1–3; for 650 cc and below it is 2,214 TL. See the MTV table.
• Experience: A naked bike over 100 hp can react very sharply to a sudden opening of the throttle. If it is your first big motorcycle, the 70–90 hp band is more forgiving.

Entry band: 350–400 thousand TL

The CFMoto 650NK produces 60.3 hp from its 649 cc twin-cylinder engine and, at 354,800 TL (October 2026 list price), is the cheapest way into the class. The 780 mm seat height is an advantage for shorter riders. The Benelli 752S is more powerful at 76 hp, at 397,300 TL (October 2026 list price). Both are over 200 kg; they are 15–40 kg heavier than their Japanese rivals. This band makes sense for riders who have just got their A licence and have a limited budget.

Middle band: the heart of the class

The Yamaha MT-07 has been the benchmark of this class for years: light, agile and predictable with 72.4 hp, 183 kg and an 805 mm seat. 804,000 TL (October 2026 list price). For those who want an automatic gearshift without a clutch lever, there is also the Yamaha MT-07 Y-AMT (852,500 TL (October 2026 list price)).

The Honda CB750 Hornet is markedly more powerful than the MT-07 at 90.5 hp and still light at 190 kg; moreover, at 751,250 TL (October 2026 list price) it is cheaper than the MT-07. You can compare these two on the Honda CB750 Hornet vs Yamaha MT-07 comparison page. The Suzuki GSX-8S sits between the two with 81.8 hp and 776 cc, at 819,000 TL (October 2026 list price).

If you want the sound and character of a four-cylinder, the Honda CB650R, at 93.9 hp, is the only four-cylinder in this band; 869,250 TL (October 2026 list price). If you are looking for a sportier chassis and electronics package, the Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory, with 105 hp and 181 kg, is the most powerful and lightest model in this table; 799,000 TL (October 2026 list price).

Upper band: 100 hp and above

The Yamaha MT-09, with its 890 cc three-cylinder engine and 117.3 hp, is one of the best-known models in this class; 1,186,000 TL (October 2026 list price). For those who want higher-spec suspension there is the Yamaha MT-09 SP (1,171,500 TL (October 2026 list price)). The Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 is very light with 105 hp and 181 kg, at 901,800 TL (October 2026 list price). The MV Agusta Brutale R is a different choice with 112 hp and Italian design; 869,900 TL (August 2026 list price). This band is for experienced riders; if you choose one as your first big motorcycle, we recommend using the riding modes in the softest setting.

Other strong candidates in the catalogue

This class also includes the Kawasaki Z650, Triumph Trident 660, BMW F 900 R, Ducati Monster V2, KTM 990 Duke and Triumph Street Triple 765 RS. We did not put these models in the tables because their prices are recorded without a date in the catalogue; check the technical data on the model pages and the current price at the dealer. For example, you can see the Z650 and MT-07 side by side on the Kawasaki Z650 vs Yamaha MT-07 comparison page, and the Trident 660 and Hornet on the Triumph Trident 660 vs Honda CB750 Hornet comparison page.

Which suits whom?

What to watch when choosing

• Weight/power balance: As much as the hp on paper, what matters is how much power the motorcycle gives per kilogram. The 70–90 hp models in the 180–190 kg band give the best-balanced feel in daily use.
• Wind: Since a naked bike has no fairing, the wind tires you above 120 km/h. If you will do long distances, think about a small screen or a touring model; see our touring or adventure guide.
• Insurance and kasko: As the motorcycle's value rises, the kasko (comprehensive insurance) premium rises too. Do not decide without getting quotes; the basics are in the insurance guide.
• Protection parts: On a naked bike, damage from a tip-over can be expensive. Frame sliders and body protectors are like a low-cost insurance.

It is also time to step up a level in equipment: as speed increases, higher-protection products such as a full-face helmet, an airbag vest and leather gear start to make sense.

Conclusion

In the 600–900 cc naked class, the CFMoto 650NK stands out if budget comes first, the Yamaha MT-07 if you want ease and lightness, and the Honda CB750 Hornet if you are looking for value for money. Models over 100 hp such as the MT-09 and Svartpilen 801 are for experienced riders. For more options, look at the naked bikes under 1 million TL, value-for-money naked bikes and most powerful naked bikes lists, for annual cost the cost calculator, and for your own filters the motorcycle finder.

Frequently asked questions

MT-07 or CB750 Hornet?

On the October 2026 list prices the Hornet is cheaper and 18 hp more powerful; the MT-07 is 7 kg lighter and has been on the market longer. If you want more power, the Hornet; if you want a calm and predictable motorcycle, the MT-07.

Which licence is needed for a 600–900 cc naked bike?

All the models in this guide are in the A class in the catalogue. They cannot be ridden on an A2 licence.

Is 100 hp too much for a first big motorcycle?

It depends on your experience, but if you have just moved up from A2, the 70–90 hp band is more forgiving. On models over 100 hp, starting with the riding modes in the soft setting is a good habit.

What is the cheapest model in this class?

By the October 2026 list prices in the catalogue, the CFMoto 650NK, at 354,800 TL.