Motorcycles have always had a special allure, combining adrenaline-pumping speed with a sense of freedom and adventure. In this blog, we’ll share our list of the leading motorcycle brands and types, as well as top sellers over time. Hop on, rev up your engines and keep reading to learn more about today’s top makes and models.
What motorcycle brands and types lead the industry?
Most popular motorcycle brands
There are hundreds of brands and models out there, each with unique features, functions and style.
Harley Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle brand known for its rich heritage and distinctive cruiser-style bikes. With a focus on powerful engines, bold designs and a loyal community of riders, Harley-Davidson motorcycles evoke a sense of freedom and rebellion, making them synonymous with motorcycle culture in the U.S.
Honda is a globally recognized motorcycle brand renowned for its reliability, innovation and diverse range of bikes. From sport bikes to scooters, Honda offers a wide variety of models designed to cater to different riding preferences and needs.
Ducati is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer celebrated for its high-performance bikes, blending exquisite Italian design with cutting-edge technology. With a racing history and a focus on sport bikes, Ducati motorcycles are known for their thrilling speed and precision handling.
Kawasaki is a Japanese motorcycle brand that excels in producing motorcycles across various categories, including sport bikes, cruisers and off-road motorcycles. Known for their powerful engines, aggressive styling and superb handling, Kawasaki bikes offer a fun riding experience.
BMW is a German brand known for its premium motorcycles that combine luxury, performance and innovation. With a focus on precision engineering and advanced features, BMW bikes offer a refined riding experience.
Indian is an American motorcycle brand with a storied history that dates back over a century. Known for their timeless designs, powerful engines and craftsmanship, Indian bikes evoke a sense of nostalgia and elegance.
Yamaha is a global motorcycle brand with a wide range of models catering to different riding styles and preferences. From sport bikes to touring motorcycles, Yamaha offers a diverse lineup known for performance, reliability and innovation.
Most popular types of motorcycles
Depending on a rider’s preferences, there are many motorcycle varieties to choose from. Whether you want to ride long distances in comfort, speed around a track or simply get from A to B on two wheels, these are the most popular types of motorcycles on the market.
Cruisers: With a lower seat and a more reclined riding position, cruisers are comfortable, stylish and easily customizable. It’s no surprise they are the top choice among riders in the U.S.
Standard: Sometimes called a “naked” bike, these are the most versatile motorcycles and are popular for commuting. Standard bikes have an upright riding position.
Sport bikes: These performance motorcycles are designed for speed, as well as easy accelerating, braking and turning. Sport bikes have a forward-leaning riding position.
Off-road: Also known as dirt bikes, these lighter and more flexible motorcycles are designed to be driven on unpaved surfaces.
Whether planning your next big ride, commuting to work or attending a rally, enthusiasts know there’s a bike for everyone.
What are the best-selling motorcycles?
Six of the best-selling bikes in 2023
These models topped the list of best sellers last year:
- Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883: This sports cruiser boasts a classic American style and is an excellent option for riding around town. The lowered front and rear suspension and narrow solo seat provide riders of all sizes with a comfortable experience.
- BMW M 1000 RR: If you’re looking for life in the fast lane, this dynamic roadster will deliver. It offers a top speed of 174 mph and the unmistakable sound of the M R four-cylinder engine.
- Honda Hornet CB 750: The 2023 Honda Hornet combines elegance and power to create a rewarding riding experience. This model features an eight-valve parallel twin-cylinder unit to deliver loads of mid-range usability and agile performance.
- Triumph Street Triple 765: This model is a stunning blend of style, performance and agility. Its 765cc engine makes for an exhilarating ride whether you’re navigating bustling city streets or ascending a mountain path.
- Royal Enfield Classic 350: Hop on for a nostalgic journey back in time. Its formidable 349cc engine delivers a nice balance of power and usability, making this bike a reliable choice.
- Ducati Scrambler 800: This agile and easy-going bike has been updated with a new electronics package for 2023 along with other enhancements. Overall, the new model offers a thrilling edge to the ride, backed by reassuring safety.
Best-selling bikes of all time
Many motorcycles have stood the test of time. Here are a few of our favorites:
Honda Super Cub: The Super Cub holds the title of the best-selling motorcycle of all time, as a small-displacement motorcycle with fuel efficiency and ease of use.
Kawasaki Ninja: The Ninja series is a top-selling line of sport bikes, captivating riders with track-inspired technology and aggressive styling.
Yamaha VMAX: The VMAX is a legendary power cruiser that has carved its place in motorcycle history with its muscular appearance and thrilling V4 engine.
Harley-Davidson Fat Boy: The iconic Fat Boy motorcycle is known for its bold presence, and its timeless design and chrome accessories have gained a cult following.
BMW R nineT: The R nineT is a captivating motorcycle that blends retro aesthetics with modern engineering.
Best-selling collector editions
For some motorcycle enthusiasts, one bike just isn’t enough. And while some may prefer newer models, others opt for the classics. These models are among the most popular collector edition motorcycles in the U.S.
- 1968-1973 Honda SL 350
- 1972-1975 Kawasaki Z1
- 1969-1969 BMW R60/2 and R69S
- 1946-1953 Indian Chief
- 1936-1947 Harley-Davidson EL/FL Knucklehead
Want to start a collection of your own? Check out these celebrity motorcycle collectors for inspiration.
Ship your motorcycle
Riders looking to add to their collections may find their next bike from a seller across the country. To save yourself the time driving it yourself, use a motorcycle shipping service instead.
Montway Auto Transport is an industry-leading vehicle shipping broker that works with thousands of motorcycle owners every year. Trust our expertise to get your prized bike to its destination safely and efficiently. Learn about our motorcycle shipping services or talk with an advisor at 888-989-8526 .
