Starting your classic motorcycle collection? If the answer’s “yes,” you’re probably on the hunt for the best classic motorcycle options available on the market (especially if you plan to treat your collection as an investment rather than just a hobby).
The pursuit of the perfect classic motorcycle involves striking a delicate balance of history, craftsmanship, and exhilaration on the road. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of the most widely-coveted classic motorcycles, sure to drive up the overall value of your motorcycle collection.
What Are the Best Vintage Motorcycles to Own?
Classic motorcycles hold a timeless allure, embodying the essence of an era while delivering an unmatched riding experience. These machines have secured their place in the hearts of riders across generations.
#8: Triumph Bonneville T120
- Average Price: From $10,000
- Year of release: 1959
Image courtesy of Triumph Motorcycles
Born in Britain, the Triumph Bonneville exudes vintage charm. Known for its parallel twin engine and comfortable seating position, it offers a range of approximately 170-190 miles on a full tank. Also, it features modern tech upgrades found in newer models (ride-by-wire, traction control, etc.), along with a refined power delivery.
The Triumph Bonneville T120 features a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, wire-spoke wheels, twin shock absorbers, pea-shooter exhausts, and rubber knee pads on the tank. The T120 has a liquid-cooled, 1200cc parallel-twin engine, producing around 80 horsepower.
Whether it’s the engine’s rev or the polished chrome’s gleam, the classic Bonneville is sure to capture any enthusiast’s heart. It often evokes a feeling reminiscent of a café racer when riding on the road.
#7: Honda CB750
- Average Price: $5,000 – $12,000
- Year of release: 1969
Image courtesy of RevZilla
Introduced as the world’s first superbike, the Honda CB750 was a modern bike phenomenon that paved the way for the high-performance bikes you see today. The classic CB750 model produces approximately 67 horsepower from its 736cc air-cooled inline-four engine with electric start and disc brakes.
The Honda CB750 had a classic UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle) styling with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-piece seat, and chrome accents. Its design is more functional than flashy, focusing on reliability and performance. Also, the CB750 could provide a range of approximately 175-200 miles on a full tank.
Whether cruising down a straight-line highway or carving through twisty back roads, the Honda CB750 offers riders a comfortable upright seating position. Its low maintenance and robust build contributed to its popularity.
#6: Ducati Monster
- Average Price: $5,000 – $15,000
- Year of release: 1993
Image courtesy of Ducati of Santa Barbara
The Ducati Monster is an Italian sport bike legend with a distinctive, muscular design and powerful performance. Ducati Monsters are powered by various engine configurations, including a V-twin engine, with displacements ranging from 600cc to over 1200cc.
The different Ducati classic lines come with varying engine sizes, aesthetics, and features, allowing you to choose one that suits your riding style and personality. The range can vary from approximately 110 miles to 200 miles on a full tank.
It is renowned for its naked bike styling, exposed trellis frame, and sporty yet comfortable riding position. Also, it features top-tier suspension, brakes, and electronics.
The Ducati Monster’s design emphasizes a stripped-back, muscular steel tank and signature single-sided swingarm. It’s known for its raw, industrial look, often featuring a single round headlight and distinctive tail section.
#5: Royal Enfield Bullet
- Average Price: $4000 – $10,000
- Year of release: 1931
Image courtesy of Royal Enfield
The Royal Enfield Bullet is an iconic motorcycle known for its classic styling and mega engine note. Its long production run and dedicated fan base have made it one of the favorite bikes among riders.
The Bullet typically houses an air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, available in various displacements ranging from 350cc to 500cc or more in new models. It produces around 20-30 hp, providing a relaxed experience rather than outright top speed. Typically, a Royal Enfield Bullet will yield a range of approximately 140-160 miles on a full tank.
The Royal Enfield Bullet exudes a classic charm with its teardrop-shaped fuel tank, chrome accents, spoked wheels, and a vintage-styled round headlamp. Its easy handling and low center of gravity offer a smooth ride perfect for all routes.
#4: Kawasaki Z1
- Average Price: $15,000 – $25,000
- Year of release: 1972
Image courtesy of Rider Magazine
The Kawasaki Z1 holds a special place in the motorcycle industry with its 903cc inline-four engine producing around 82 horsepower. With a sophisticated suspension for its time and a top speed unmatched by many of its contemporaries, the Kawasaki Z1 made a name for itself.
The Kawasaki Z1 features a muscular, iconic design with a distinctive “Z” logo on the side covers. It has a bikini fairing around the headlight, a signature four-into-four exhaust system, and chrome accents. The overall retro styling is a blend of sportiness and muscularity.
In most cases, a Kawasaki Z1 boasts a range of approximately 135-160 miles on a full tank.
#3: Norton Commando
- Average Price: $10,000 – $20,000
- Year of release: 1967
Image courtesy of Ventura MCA
The Norton Commando is revolutionary due to its Isolastic anti-vibration system, which separates the engine and gearbox from the frame. This contributes to a smoother ride and enhanced handling. It features a powerful parallel-twin engine, excellent brakes, and a comfortable seating position.
The Commando’s engine produces around 58 to 68 horsepower, promising strong performance for its time. It could provide a range of approximately 200-225 miles on a full tank.
The Norton Commando is typically known for its classic British design, namely a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, distinctive side panels, and a signature ‘fastback’ tail section. The Norton Commando is also instantly recognized for its slim and elegant appearance and chrome detailing.
#2: BSA Gold Star
- Price: $12,000 – 20,000
- Year of release: 1930s
Image courtesy of BSA Motorcycles
The BSA Gold Star remains an icon in motorcycle racing history, appreciated for its track dominance and classic British design. It featured a powerful and reliable single-cylinder engine, which was considered advanced for its time. The BSA Gold Star also features a lightweight frame that sustains its agility and speed.
The Gold Star was powered by an air-cooled, single-cylinder engine available in various displacements, primarily 350cc and 500cc. It reaches speeds of approximately 40 to 50 horsepower, delivering impressive performance for its era.
When you buy this classic motorbike, you can expect a range of approximately 160-200 miles on a single full tank.
#1: Yamaha Vmax
- Price: $8,000 – $15,000
- Year of release: 1985
Image courtesy of Rider Magazine
The Yamaha VMAX is renowned for its muscular appearance and powerful V4 engine that delivers exhilarating acceleration. The VMAX boasts a unique and muscular design characterized by its sculpted fuel tank, muscular stance, and signature quad exhaust pipes.
Most notably, this classic motorcycle features an advanced V-Boost system that enhances power delivery at higher RPMs, contributing to its straight-line speed.
It’s powered by a potent liquid-cooled, 1,679cc V4 engine, producing around 170 horsepower. Also, it can provide a range of approximately 100-120 miles on a full tank.
Summary
After acquiring your dream classic motorbike, proper care is crucial for keeping it in peak condition. Regular servicing and the right oil and fuel are all vital aspects of maintaining motorcycles.
If you are investing in a classic motorcycle, it’s crucial to plan where you’ll store it, as proper storage will protect its value. Many classic motorbikes are less weather-proof than newer models and are more susceptible to theft due to their high value. Hence, it’s essential to have an enclosed and secure space to safeguard your classic.
If you lack space in your garage for your classic motorcycle, consider renting an indoor 5’x10’ storage unit or a garage to protect it from rain, humidity, UV rays, and debris. Neighbor —a top-rated self-storage marketplace that provides safe, nearby, and budget-friendly storage units (and residential garages) for your classic motorcycles.
