TOP 10 Best Motorcycle Brands In The World

Best Motorcycle Brands In The World?

With all the different motorcycle brands out there, how do you recognize which is the very best? The open road, the wind in your face, and a piece of pure machinery muscular tissue between your legs. Could there be anything better, despite brand name?

When you finally decide to buy your very first bike, it's a really interesting minute. And also it's very little different for every bike you acquire afterwards very first one either. Yet, with so many motorbike brand names around just how exactly do you select? To obtain you began we provide you the breakdown of the top 10 ideal motorcycle brand names worldwide.

The Top 10 Best Motorcycle Brands in the World

1. Harley Davidson

Harley Davidson Motorcycle

Any list of the most effective bike brands wouldn't be complete without Harley Davidson motorcycles. Without a doubt, Harley Davidson is one of the most iconic motorbike brand name all over the world.

Ever since Harley Davidson Electric motor Co. opened its doors in 1903, they have actually been wowing their customer base.

Harley Davidson was founded by William S. Harley, William and Walter Davidson, and also youth friend Arthur Davidson. What began as a couple of boys with a desire turned into a worldwide realm.

This brand is renowned for its heavyweight cruisers and touring bikes that emphasize engine rumble, custom style and a strong rider community.

Harley Davidson uses a ride for each lifestyle. If you're seeking a streamlined, quick bike their road model is a great fit.

Wanting to bike cross-country? Harley has you covered with a number of alternatives from their Visiting to CVO versions, not to mention all the added bells as well as whistles they have offered.

Happily made in the U.S.A., Harley Davidson is the essential bike. When somebody claims bike, 9 breaks of 10, they're picturing a Harley.

✅Pros of Harley Davidson Motorcycle:

• Heritage & Community: Deep brand history and loyal owner clubs worldwide
• Power & Feel: Large V‑twin engines deliver distinctive sound and torque
• Customization: Vast aftermarket for personalization

❌Cons of Harley Davidson Motorcycle:

• Weight & Handling: Heavier than many competitors, less nimble
• Cost: Higher MSRP and maintenance costs
• Fuel Economy: Relatively low MPG for everyday commuting

📊2024 Harley Davidson Global Sales Volume:

148,862 motorcycles shipped worldwide in 2024 (–17% vs. 2023)

🎯Target Audience:

Primarily mid‑40s to 60s riders with above‑average income, drawn by American heritage, long‑distance touring and a tight‑knit community

🏆Best‑Selling Harley Davidson Model in 2024:

Harley‑Davidson Street Glide topped U.S. sales charts as the most popular Harley in 2024

2. Yamaha

Yamaha Motorcycle

Yamaha was one of the initial of the Japanese bike firms. Established

Started by Genichi Kawakami on the motto, "If you are going to make it, make it the very best there is." They completed their initial motorcycle version in 1954.

Production of the initial model, the Yamaha YA-1, began in 1955. They started marketing the bikes in Japan in 1958. They came to be a global brand name in 1960 and also started exporting their bikes to the United States.

Yamaha focuses on on/off roadway bikes for the sports cyclist. Yamaha makes the motorbikes for enjoyable off-road experiences instead of range driving.

While they have actually never ever lost sight of how all of it began, they additionally have actually expanded their offerings. Yamaha additionally makes other items like snow sleds, watercraft, and also high powered ATV's.

Now, this motorcycle brand has evolved from a musical instrument maker into a global leader in bike innovation and racing heritage.

Yamaha motorbikes are reasonably valued, especially for the sportier designs. Yamaha does also have visiting models if you need a comfier flight.

They make the playthings for each area of your life.

✅Pros of Yamaha Motorcycle:

• Strong engineering & racing pedigree ensures high-performance, reliable bikes.
• Diverse product lineup: cruisers, sportbikes, dirt bikes, adventure, scooters—you name it.
• Global reach, with a robust dealer network and aftermarket support.
• Innovation leadership, e.g., first mass-market fly‑by‑wire (R6, R1) and hybrid 150cc commuter in India.

❌Cons of Yamaha Motorcycle:

• Some models criticized for being underpowered or with service-heavy maintenance schedules (e.g., Tricity scooter).
• Premium pricing for flagship sport bikes (R1M) and cruisers might deter budget-conscious riders.
• Inconsistent regional success: some models underperform in markets like Asia or Thailand.

📊2024 Yamaha Motorcycle Sales Volume:

• Globally: Yamaha sold approximately 4.8 million motorcycles in 2024—up 4.4% YoY, ranking 3rd worldwide (behind Honda & Hero).
• Regional sales trends:
  • Asia (ex‑Japan): ~2.93 million units in Jan‑Sep 2024 (+1 % YoY).
  • North America: ~68,000 (+14 %).
  • Japan: ~54,000 (-1 %).

🎯Target Audience:

Yamaha targets a broad rider base:

• Enthusiast sport riders—R1, R6, R3.
• Cruiser/downtown riders—Star/V‑Max/Bolt line.
• Adventure and dual-sport fans—Super Ténéré, Tenere 700.
• Entry-level commuters—MT‑03, FZ S, Tricity.
• Youth & off-road enthusiasts—YZ, TT‑R dirt bikes.

🏆Best-Selling Yamaha Motorcycle Model in 2024:

• In the U.S., the MT‑07 is among Yamaha’s top sellers (~30,000 units sold in 2024).
• Globally, Yamaha doesn’t disclose model-level data; however, the MT‑07’s strong U.S. performance positions it as likely their best‑selling model in 2024.

3. Honda

Honda Motorcycle

The brainchild of Soichiro Honda and Takeo Fujisawa, Honda is the largest as well as among the most preferred motorbike brand names out of Japan.

Not just are they the biggest bike producer yet they also make one of the most inner combustion engines worldwide.

Honda developed their initial motorbike version in 1949, came to be Honda Electric motor Co., as well as promptly expanded to the biggest bike producer by 1964.

Today, Honda supplies a design choice that combines the long-distance charm of Harley as well as the sportier models of Yamaha.

Honda's Powersports department supplies road bikes, off-road designs, ATV's, full-size off-road cars, as well as also scooters.

A Honda might be the bike you would like when taking on the barrette transforms of Beartooth Freeway. They offer a comfortable flight with stylish handling.

Honda, like their cars, can be a little costlier than other Japanese based cars. Their high quality absolutely stands up to the price.

While Honda motorcycles get on the more expensive end of the sporting activities bike listing, the top quality is worth the price.

✅Pros of Honda Motorcycle:

• Legendary durability and reliability—gearboxes and engines are smooth and long-lasting.
• Broad model range: commuters (CBR500R), adventure (Africa Twin), cruisers (Rebel), mini-MOTOS (Grom), automatic DCT options.
• Strong fuel economy and easy handling—great for everyday use and new riders.
• Innovative: early DCT/autoshift tech, growing electric lineup.

❌ Cons of Honda Motorcycle:

• Conservative styling; less “exotic” design compared to rivals.
• Softer suspension not ideal for aggressive sport riding.
• DCT systems may limit manual control for some riders.

📊 2024 Honda Motorcycle Sales Volume:

Honda sold ~19.6 million motorcycles globally—a record, growing 6% year‑over‑year .

🎯 Target Audience:

“Everyman” riders—commuters, beginners, adventure seekers, cruiser fans, and those valuing reliability and efficiency across age and experience levels .

🏆 Best‑Selling Honda Motorcycle Model in 2024:

In the U.S., the Rebel 1100 was Honda’s top-selling motorcycle (~40,000 units), closely followed by CB 500X (~22k) .

4. Ducati

Ducati Motorcycle

Ducati brand names of motorcycles have actually been on the roadway for 90 years! The now iconic motorcycle brand name was founded in 1926 by Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his 3 boys, Adriano, Marcello, and Bruno.

You would certainly never ever recognize the company started by doing shortwave radio experiments. It wasn't up until 1935 that the initial rock was laid of the Borgo Panigale motorcycle factory in Central Italy.

The Cucciolo was the initial bike generated by Ducati. It looked much various than the motorcycles appearing of Japan. It looked a lot more like a basic bicycle with an electric motor.

The Ducati 60, the brand name's first full well-known bike, was launched in 1949.

Today, Ducati is still based in Italy. Their motorcycles are renowned for appeal as well as speed.

Ducati motorbikes likewise feature fairly a price tag. Harley's highest possible priced version is around $40K where a blinged out Ducati can establish you back almost $65K.

Known for powerful engines, distinctive design, cutting-edge tech, and a rich racing heritage—especially in MotoGP and WorldSBK—Ducati values performance and style.

✅ Pros of Ducati Motorcycle:

• Excellent performance & handling
• Distinctive Italian design
• Strong racing pedigree & tech
• Premium brand image and exclusivity

❌ Cons of Ducati Motorcycle:

• High purchase and maintenance costs
• May be less comfortable for everyday commuting
• Spare parts and servicing can be expensive
• Slightly lower annual sales, reflecting exclusivity

📊 2024 of Ducati Motorcycle Highlights:

• Delivered 54,495 motorcycles worldwide, slightly down from 58,224 in 2023.
• Recorded revenue of €1.003 billion, with €91 million EBIT (9.1%).

🎯 Target Audience:

Ducati primarily targets affluent thrill-seekers and enthusiasts who value top-tier performance, premium engineering, stylish design, and a racing-inspired lifestyle

🏆 Best‑selling Ducati Motorcycle model in 2024:

Multistrada platform (13,069 units), followed by Panigale (~8,456 units) and Monster (~6,344 units)

5. Kawasaki

Kawasaki Motorcycle

Kawasaki Shozo founded Kawasaki Heavy Industries in 1896. It had not been until much later on, in 1949, when Kawasaki would certainly go into the bike market. The bikes ended up being popular swiftly and also they determined to open up an USA branch to proceed manufacturing.

Kawasaki Electric Motor Corp, USA was founded in Chicago in 1966. They began with tiny two-stroke equipments however the public required something much faster and much more fun. They launched a pair of fast rotary shutoff twins, the Avenger and Samurai.

Kawasaki would be referred to as the brand name for high-performance enjoyable after that.

Currently, Kawasaki concentrates on stunning sporting activities bikes. They ride reduced to the ground as well as reach amazing speeds. These are suggested to be competed.

These bikes ask to be driven set.

✅ Pros of Kawasaki Motorcycle:

• High Performance & Engineering – Engines born from aerospace heritage, excelling in power and reliability.
• Wide Model Range – From sport bikes and cruisers to off-road and scooters.
• Bold Styling & Riding Experience – Strong brand identity, especially in “green” sports bikes.
• Global Reach & Local Presence – Manufacturing in USA, Japan, Thailand, India, and Europe.

❌Cons of Kawasaki Motorcycle:

• Price Point – Often higher than competitors, which may screen out some riders.
• Niche Focus – Emphasis on performance might deter budget-conscious or casual riders.
• Inconsistent Volume Regions – Sales are weaker in some areas like China.

📊 2024 Kawasaki Motorcycle Highlights:

Kawasaki globally reported 478,125 motorcycle registrations in 2024—a slight decline of 1.1%, mainly due to weaker performance in China.

🎯 Target Audience:

• Enthusiasts seeking sport-oriented or performance motorcycles (e.g., Ninja, Z, H2 series).
• Riders wanting diverse options—from cruisers and tourers to off-road and adventure models.
• Those who prioritize engineering quality and brand prestige.

🏆 Best‑selling Kawasaki Motorcycle model in 2024:

In the U.S., the Kawasaki Z650 was the top-selling model with around 45,000 units, making it Kawasaki’s best-seller stateside in 2024.

6. BMW

BWM Motorcycle

Among the really initial motorcycle companies, BMW released their M2B15 flat-twin engine in 1921. BMW began developing engines and bikes for the war effort as well as continued building exceptional bikes ever since.

The motorcycle division currently operates under the name BMW Motorrad.

The German business still produces all of its bikes in Germany. They create both long-distance riders and sporting activities bikes.

✅ Pros of BMW Motorcycles:

• Innovation & quality: advanced features like radar cruise, semi-active Evo‑ESA suspension, Telelever system, and robust Boxer engines.
• Versatility: the lineup spans commuting, touring, adventure, sport, and electric.
• Premium engineering: refined riding dynamics, build quality, strong resale value.

❌Cons of BMW Motorcycles:

• High price: premium tech comes at a premium cost.
• Complexity: extensive electronics can be overwhelming and potentially fragile.
• Weight: Adventure models are heavy (~237 kg for R1300GS), which may challenge smaller riders.
• Maintenance cost: tends to be higher due to premium parts and systems.

📊 2024 BMW Motorcycles Global Sales Volume:

• Record-breaking 210,408 motorcycles sold worldwide—the strongest year ever for BMW Motorrad.
• Europe led with 118,727 units, followed by the USA (17,272), China (13,872), Brazil, India, etc.

🎯 Target Audience:

• Riders who seek premium adventure touring bikes with cutting-edge tech, reliability, and multi-terrain capability.
• Also appealing to sportbike enthusiasts, urban commuters (e.g., G 310), and heritage/cruisers fans.

🏆 Best‑selling BMW Motorcycles model in 2024:

The “big GS” boxer adventure range—the R 1300 GS, R 1300 GS Adventure, and R 1250 GS—topped sales with over 68,000 units.

7. Suzuki

Suzuki Motorcycle

Remarkably, Michio Suzuki started Suzuki as a weaving loom producer in 1909. They really did not start making automobiles up until they determined to branch out in the late 1930's.

Similar to a few of the various other leading motorcycle brands, Suzuki began producing motorbikes in the mid-late 1950's.

This Japanese brand name has an abundant auto racing heritage and also remains to welcome that today. Suzuki generates several of the fastest bikes on the market.

Suzuki produced the initial liquid-cooled bike engine way back in the very early 1970's. It was released in their GT750 collection in 1971.

Today, they are still pushing the envelope in rate as well as style. The Suzuki bikes have an unique body design and energy.

✅ Pros of Suzuki Motorcycles:

• Versatility & reliability: Models like V-Strom 650 are praised for dependable, multi-purpose performance.
• Advanced tech & strong engines: Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S), traction control, ABS, quick-shifters surface across the 2024 lineup.
• Good value: Solid features at competitive prices.

❌Cons of Suzuki Motorcycles:

• Brakes & corrosion: The V-Strom 650’s early versions drew mild criticism for brake feel and rust susceptibility.
• Comfort tradeoffs: Some off-road bikes are mechanically dated and less comfortable on road.

📊 2024 Suzuki Motorcycles Global Sales Volume:

Suzuki sold approximately 2.0 million motorcycles worldwide in 2024, a ~6.1% increase year‑over‑year, ranking 7th globally.

🎯 Target Audience:

Suzuki riders range from beginners (GSX-250R, SV650) to adventure‑tourers (V-Strom series), daily commuters (Burgman scooters), and sport enthusiasts (GSX‑R, Hayabusa).

🏆 Best‑selling Suzuki Motorcycles model in 2024:

Globally, the V-Strom 650 stands out as Suzuki’s top orthodox seller—praised as affordable, efficient, and versatile.

8. Aprilia

Aprilia Motorcycle

Aprilia was a simple bicycle home builder established after the 2nd world war by Cavaliere Alberto Beggio. His kid, Ivano Beggio, was the enthusiast behind their relocation into the bike space. He took control of in 1968 and created the prototype of the Aprilia motorcycle.

Aprilia became Europe's solution to beat Japan on the motorcycle racing circuit. Bursting onto the scene in 1975, Aprilia would go onto win 294 Grand Prix races. They still hold the record for a lot of success by a European motorbike manufacturer.

You will still generally see Aprilia bikes on the racing circuit. However, they do supply models for any person with a need for speed. These aren't the bikes for your excursion, however they will obtain you where you a going, quick.

The advantage of an Aprilia bike is you can get a good one for a very budget-friendly cost. Since these are produced rate they also need to be conveniently repaired or changed need to they obtain banged up.

Now, Aprilia offers both motocross, road, and high-performance bikes. Acquired by Piaggio in 2004, Aprilia is now known for its racing heritage and sporty, innovative design.

✅ Pros of Aprilia Motorcycles:

• Strong racing legacy: Over 50 world titles and a reputation for sporty machines.
• Performance & tech: Equipped with advanced electronics (traction control, riding modes, ride-by-wire).
• Stylish Italian design: Distinctive and dynamic aesthetic appeal.
• Engine variety: Ranges from nimble 50‑cc bikes to high-end V4 superbikes like the RSV4.

❌Cons of Aprilia Motorcycles:

• Limited global volume: Around 60,000 units annually, small compared to major brands.
• Premium pricing: Positioned at higher prices relative to competitors.
• Niche dealer network: Less extensive service and support networks outside Europe.
• Maintenance complexity: Advanced electronics and high-performance engines may cost more to maintain.

📊 2024 Aprilia Motorcycles Highlights:

After ten months of 2024, Aprilia sold approximately 51,956 units, on track to reach about 60,000 total globally—a slight 2.2% increase over 2023’s ~59,368 units

🎯 Target Audience:

Aprilia riders include:

• Sportbike enthusiasts seeking performance and track capability (RSV4, RS 660).
• Tech-savvy riders looking for advanced electronics and ride control.
• Design-conscious consumers drawn to Italian flair and racing pedigree.
• Adventure riders via dual-sports like the Tuareg 660.

🏆 Best‑selling Aprilia Motorcycles model in 2024:

While global model‑specific data is limited, Aprilia’s RS 660 stands out as a popular mid-weight sportbike with strong reviews. In specific markets such as India, the RS 457 sold 231 units in April 2024—far outpacing competitors in its class. Combined with its recent introduction and acclaim, the RS 660 likely ranks as Aprilia’s top global seller for 2024.

9. Triumph

Triumph Motorcycle

Triumph Motorcycles Ltd, headquartered in Hinckley (UK), is a storied British motorcycle maker.

Accomplishment produced several of the earliest understand bikes. Still enthusiast's items today these designs date back as far as 1902.

Victory Engineering created greater than 30,000 motorbikes for the Allied War effort in World War I. Manufacturing continued throughout both World Wars and also right into the Post-War Period.

Triumph obtained a great deal of notoriety after Marlon Brando rode a 1950 Thunderbird 6T in the movie, Bush Ones, in 1953.

Triumph Motorcycles was established by John Bloor in the very early 1980's, after the original company went into receivership, and is still Britain's largest bike maker.

Today, Triumph markets both cruising kind machines as well as rate motorbikes.

This motorcycle brand produces a diverse lineup. They have powerful Triples like the Rocket 3 and Tiger touring/adventure bikes to accessible. Also, there is single-cylinder models like the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X, developed together with Bajaj in India.

✅ Pros of Triumph Motorcycles:

• Heritage + modern tech: Blends classic appeal with features like triple engines, TFT screens, ride modes, ABS/traction control.
• Global momentum: Record sales and racer-launched segments (400 cc, motocross) showing growth-driven strategy.
• Strong build & performance: Riders praise Triumphs for being well-sorted, engaging, and dependable.

❌Cons of Triumph Motorcycles:

• Premium pricing: Parts and dealer service tend to be more expensive and limited compared to mainstream brands.
• Service network issues: Some owners report poor after-sales support, especially in North America/India.
• Depreciation & fees: Higher dealer prep fees and faster depreciation in certain models.

📊 2024 Triumph Motorcycles Sales Volume:

• Global sales: 134,635 units in 2024—a 64% jump over 2023, marking the brand's first-ever year past 100,000 units in its 122‑year history.
• Growth: Since 2019, sales have climbed 123%, supported by dealer expansion (950 dealers, +46% since 2019).
• Top markets: India (29,736 units), the Americas (+44%), Asia (+30%), Europe (+18%).

🎯 Target Audience:

• Experienced riders seeking style, performance, and British legacy.
• Adventure/touring riders who want tech-rich machines (e.g., Tiger 900/1200).
• New or budget-conscious riders are increasingly drawn to affordable 400 cc models.
• Premium-segment buyers valuing exclusivity and emotional appeal.

🏆 Best‑selling Triumph Motorcycles model in 2024:

• While not disclosed globally, the Scrambler 400X (and its Speed 400 sibling) led in India and Australia—quintessential to Triumph’s surge in emerging markets.
• In Italy, the Tiger 900 was the top model with 1,071 registrations.

10. KTM

KTM Motorcycle

KTM had humble origins beginning as an automobile repair shop in Mattighofen, Austria. The firm's owner and engineer, Hans Trunkenpolz, introduced his very own bike in 1954.

While the original company declared bankruptcy in 1991 the name and legal rights were acquired as well as rebranded in 1992. It's part of Pierer Mobility AG with majority ownership by Bajaj Auto. KTM is still a big name in the auto racing motorcycle field.

This brand creates the best in sporting activities bikes. These bikes can practically put down totally on barrette turns and keep you competing.

It is best known for its high-performance off-road bikes and expanding into street and adventure models.

From competing bikes to dirt bikes to off-roaders, KTM uses several of the best speed bikes available.

KTM supplies fun, budget friendly bikes. They can obtain unclean as well as take a beating.

✅ Pros of KTM Motorcycles:

• Performance & Handling: Strong in off-road, motocross, and sport bikes with top WP suspension and strong power-to-weight ratio.
• Advanced Tech: Features like ABS, quickshifter, traction control, EFI—all available in various models.
• Versatile Lineup: Covers everything from 50cc kids bikes to 1290 cc Super Duke R and 390 Adventure dual-sports.

❌Cons of KTM Motorcycles:

• Reliability Issues: Some engine/camshaft troubles reported on models like the 790 and 890.
• Service & Parts Cost: Higher maintenance costs and complex service needs.
• Market Performance Variability: Over‑production led to inventory pile‑ups in 2023–24.

📊 2024 KTM Motorcycles Highlights:

• Wholesale (to dealers): 292,497 motorcycles in 2024, a 21% decline from 2023.
• Retail (to customers): ~268,000 bikes sold in 2024, nearly flat with 2023 numbers.

🎯 Target Audience:

• Off-road & motocross enthusiasts seeking competition-grade bikes (e.g., 300 XC-W, 350 XC-F).
• Adventure riders on a budget—especially the 390 Adventure entry-level model.
• Sportbike fans drawn to high-performance street models like the 1290 Super Duke R/GT.
• Younger/urban riders interested in lightweight, nimble rideables like the Duke series.

🏆 Best‑selling KTM Motorcycles model in 2024:

The KTM 390 Adventure stands out as KTM’s top-performing street/adventure bike. This model is favored by riders for its low weight, advanced suspension, and versatility.

Must have motorcycle add-ons

All significant brands currently presented some kind of self-cancelling turn indicator service. Regrettably, none rose up to the assumptions of the biker. As a result, I can claim that every one of them are missing something that most of us take for approved in cars. Self-cancelling turn signal component is simply one of the features that preferred motorbike brands are missing out on currently from the manufacturing facility. Because the Smart Transform System solved the puzzle of the technique, you just might find it as a factory-fitted feature on your brand-new motorbike.

Maybe you want to check out: Top 10 Must-Have Motorcycle Accessories For Every Rider

Nonetheless, I need to point out one more important motorcycle add-on, with which you'll never ever have to bother with your two-wheeled beauty again! I'm talking about a new generation motorbike tracker, the Vigo Smart Track. Given that motorbike safety is a sensitive subject for all bike motorcyclists, the Vigo Smart Track is an item, that represents an actual transformation in regards to motorbike safety and security. With this, you'll always have an item of mind, and understand that your motorbike is risk-free!.

Richard R

With over 10 years of experience working on cars and trucks Item Training Supervisor Richard Reina is known around the office as one of our technical experts & real an "automobile person".

His rate of interest began, in his very own words, "at the age of two when his father educated him the distinction in between a Chevy and a Ford. Since then it's been cars regularly."

As a serious lover of practically all things with a motor Richard can address nearly any kind of inquiry related to car upkeep, fixing, or restoration & is a fact professional in electric motor background.