Want to know motorcycles? There’s never been more to choose from. New makers such as China’s Lexmoto are joining the big established names, such as worldwide best-seller Honda and revived marques such as Triumph and Royal Enfield in offering an unprecedented range of machines. Perhaps an all-Italian scooter is what you’re after – or the appeal of an all-American cruiser. Then again, you might be keen on adventuring and taking in an Alp or two. There really is something for everyone in our pick of the 9 best motorbike brands in the world.
Suzuki
One of the greats among Japanese manufacturers, Suzuki first turned to making bikes after the second world war, and has never looked back. Range offers everything from commuter scooters, through a full selection of adventurous scramblers all the way to the company’s legendary range topper: the brilliant/terrifying Suzuki Hayabusa, equipped with a mighty inline-four engine that’s so powerful it’s seen service in manic classic Mini conversions.
Yamaha
Competition has always been at the heart of Yamaha’s success, from its beginnings in 1950s Japan. Overall, Yamaha has won 39 motorcycling world championships and an impressive 210 wins in the demanding Isle of Man TT. For everyday riders, the Yamaha range gifts something for everyone: the company’s off-road machines pioneered monoshock technology, while top-of-the-range R1 bikes are best experienced on the track.
Moto Guzzi
Italian thoroughbred that’s the choice of aficionados, such as actor Ewan MacGregor who’s given Moto Guzzi his official endorsement and has several in his personal collection. Key to the appeal is distinctive design, keeping true to the V-twin engine that made its name. Styling is equally singular and Moto Guzzi was pioneer biike manufacturer to use a wind tunnel for added aerodynamics. For those who love this brand, there really is nothing else.
Honda
bikist has had at least one Honda. Often seen as the reliable choice whether for commuter runarounds or trans-continental tourers, Honda has also repeatedly proved itself as an innovator and as a purveyor of bikes designed to excite, not just transport, the rider. Remarkable XL750 Transalp is latest in a line of machines with an eye on long-distance motorway riding – with the occasional off-road mountain track on the way.
KTM
Dutch specialist maker best known for endurance and off-road bikes renowned for their toughness. How tough? A KTM not only won the 2023 Dakar Rally, but was the 19th KTM winner in what’s widely acknowledged as the world’s most gruelling rally raid event. Production machines are often finished in KTM’s distinctive orange livery and riders – of suitable ability, naturally – are inspired to subject their KTMs to just about any road that lacks tarmac.
BMW Motorrad
Esteemed for super-reliable – and deceptively fast – flat twin engines, BMW’s motobike division includes these heritage machines and more, all featuring the premium quality expected of Bavaria’s most famous motoring exports. With a history dating back to 1923, BMW today offers upscale on- and off-road machinery. A prime example is the reputedly unbreakable BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, billed as offering “everything you need to explore unknown places”.
Kawasaki
Seeing a green bike flash by on road or track, you can imagine it’ll be a Kawasaki. Green is the chosen racing colour of the motorbike arm of this huge Japanese ships-to-aerospace conglomerate, and it’s the colourway often chosen by the marque’s many fans. Key performance bikes carry the coveted “Ninja” tag: latest Ninja H2 SX SE features advanced electronics such as a semi-active suspension system and cruise control – as well as hefty 200 bhp of power.
Royal Enfield
From origins in the English Midlands in 1901, Royal Enfield has impressed enthusiasts with the style and panache of its classically styled machines. Topping a small but comprehensive range is the Super Meteor 650, aimed squarely at the cruising market that’s dominated by Harley-Davidson. Distinctive parallel twin engine powers this striking motorcycle, badge speaks of real heritage.
Buell
Young, fiercely independent American brand founded forty years ago by ex-Harley Davidson engineer Erik Buell, who’s back in charge after selling up to Harley themselves in 2003. Limited range now celebrates individualism: Buell’s own powerful V-twin is the heart of each bike. Brutal-looking Buell 1190SX features carbon fibre bodywork and an impressive 185 bhp, a bike designed, say Buell, to be a “dominating street machine”.
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