Finding the perfect classic motorcycle doesn’t have to be a costly affair. With a bit of research and a keen eye, you can uncover gems that offer timeless style and reliable performance without breaking the bank. Here are 25 budget-friendly classic motorcycles that every enthusiast should consider.
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Honda CB750
The Honda CB750, often called the original superbike, revolutionized motorcycling with its powerful 736cc inline-four engine. Known for its reliability and performance, the CB750 features a disc brake, electric start, and a five-speed gearbox, making it a versatile choice for both city and highway riding. Its availability in the market and relatively low maintenance costs make it a budget-friendly classic.
Yamaha XS650
The Yamaha XS650 is celebrated for its robust 654cc parallel-twin engine, offering a perfect blend of power and simplicity. Its classic design, reminiscent of British motorcycles, coupled with excellent handling and a comfortable riding position, makes it a favorite among enthusiasts. The XS650 is also easy to work on, with parts readily available and affordable.
Kawasaki KZ650
The Kawasaki KZ650, with its 652cc inline-four engine, is known for its smooth performance and reliability. This mid-sized classic offers excellent handling and braking, making it a joy to ride on winding roads. Its availability in the used market at reasonable prices, along with a strong aftermarket support, ensures it remains a budget-friendly option.
Suzuki GS550
The Suzuki GS550, featuring a 549cc inline-four engine, offers a great balance of performance and economy. Known for its smooth power delivery and comfortable ergonomics, the GS550 is a versatile motorcycle suitable for both commuting and longer rides. Its reputation for reliability and ease of maintenance makes it a cost-effective classic.
Triumph Bonneville T120
The Triumph Bonneville T120 is an iconic British motorcycle with a 649cc parallel-twin engine. Its timeless design, featuring classic lines and a distinctive exhaust note, continues to attract enthusiasts. The T120 offers a comfortable ride with its well-balanced chassis and responsive handling. While some models can be pricey, many affordable options exist, especially for those willing to take on minor restoration projects.
BMW R65
The BMW R65, with its 649cc air-cooled boxer engine, is a well-engineered classic known for its reliability and longevity. This lightweight motorcycle offers excellent handling and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for both city and touring use. Its shaft drive system reduces maintenance needs, and its availability at reasonable prices makes it a practical choice for classic bike enthusiasts.
Moto Guzzi V7
The Moto Guzzi V7, featuring a 703cc V-twin engine, combines Italian style with solid engineering. Known for its distinctive transverse engine layout and shaft drive, the V7 offers a unique riding experience. Its classic aesthetics, comfortable ergonomics, and ease of maintenance make it a desirable and affordable classic motorcycle.
Norton Commando 850
The Norton Commando 850 is a legendary British motorcycle powered by an 828cc parallel-twin engine. Renowned for its “Isolastic” frame system that reduces vibration, the Commando offers a smooth and enjoyable ride. While some models can be expensive, there are budget-friendly options available, particularly for those willing to undertake restoration.
Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883
The Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883, with its 883cc V-twin engine, combines classic American style with modern performance. Known for its iconic design, the Iron 883 offers a raw and engaging riding experience. It’s a popular choice among customizers, with a wealth of aftermarket parts available, making it an affordable entry into the world of classic Harley-Davidsons.
Royal Enfield Bullet 500
The Royal Enfield Bullet 500 is one of the longest-running production motorcycles, featuring a 499cc single-cylinder engine. Its retro design, coupled with modern engineering, offers a reliable and nostalgic riding experience. The Bullet 500 is known for its simplicity, ease of maintenance, and affordability, making it a favorite among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.
Honda CB350
The Honda CB350, with its 325cc parallel-twin engine, is a lightweight and agile classic motorcycle. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the CB350 is ideal for both city commuting and weekend rides. Its vintage charm, coupled with an abundant supply of parts, makes it an affordable and practical classic bike.
Yamaha RD350
The Yamaha RD350, featuring a 347cc two-stroke engine, is celebrated for its high performance and sporty handling. Known as the “Giant Killer,” the RD350 offers an exhilarating riding experience with its quick acceleration and nimble chassis. Its affordability and strong aftermarket support make it a popular choice among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.
Kawasaki W650
The Kawasaki W650, with its 676cc parallel-twin engine, pays homage to the classic British motorcycles of the 1960s. Its retro styling, combined with modern reliability, offers a charming and dependable ride. The W650’s availability at reasonable prices and its ease of maintenance make it a budget-friendly classic.
Suzuki GT750
The Suzuki GT750, known as the “Water Buffalo,” features a 739cc three-cylinder two-stroke engine with liquid cooling. Its distinctive design and powerful performance make it a standout classic motorcycle. Despite its advanced technology for the era, the GT750 remains affordable and is a favorite among vintage bike collectors.
BSA Bantam D14/4
The BSA Bantam D14/4, with its 175cc two-stroke engine, is a classic British motorcycle known for its simplicity and reliability. Ideal for beginners and collectors, the Bantam offers a charming riding experience with its lightweight frame and easy handling. Its affordability and historical significance make it a cherished classic.
Ducati 750 GT
The Ducati 750 GT, featuring a 748cc V-twin engine, is a classic Italian motorcycle known for its stylish design and impressive performance. Its smooth power delivery and excellent handling make it a joy to ride. While some models can be expensive, there are affordable options available, particularly for those willing to invest in restoration.
Honda CB400F
The Honda CB400F, with its 408cc inline-four engine, is a lightweight and agile classic motorcycle. Known for its sporty performance and distinctive styling, the CB400F offers a fun and engaging riding experience. Its reliability and low maintenance costs make it a budget-friendly choice for classic bike enthusiasts.
Yamaha SR400
The Yamaha SR400, featuring a 399cc single-cylinder engine, combines classic styling with modern reliability. Known for its simplicity and ease of maintenance, the SR400 offers a straightforward and enjoyable riding experience. Its affordability and availability make it a popular choice among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.
Kawasaki H1 Mach III
The Kawasaki H1 Mach III, with its 498cc three-cylinder two-stroke engine, is a legendary classic known for its blistering performance. Nicknamed the “Widowmaker” for its powerful acceleration, the H1 offers a thrilling riding experience. Despite its reputation, it remains an affordable and sought-after classic motorcycle.
Triumph Trident T150
The Triumph Trident T150, featuring a 741cc triple engine, is a classic British motorcycle known for its distinctive design and smooth performance. Its powerful engine and comfortable ride make it a desirable classic bike. While some models can be expensive, there are budget-friendly options available, especially for those willing to undertake restoration.
BMW R75/5
The BMW R75/5, with its 749cc air-cooled boxer engine, is a well-engineered classic known for its reliability and comfort. This versatile motorcycle offers excellent handling and a smooth ride, making it ideal for both touring and daily commuting. Its availability at reasonable prices and low maintenance costs make it a practical choice for classic bike enthusiasts.
Moto Guzzi Le Mans
The Moto Guzzi Le Mans, featuring an 844cc V-twin engine, is a classic Italian motorcycle known for its sporty performance and distinctive styling. Its shaft drive system and robust construction ensure reliability and ease of maintenance. The Le Mans offers a thrilling riding experience and remains an affordable and desirable classic motorcycle.
Norton Dominator 99
The Norton Dominator 99, with its 600cc parallel-twin engine, is a classic British motorcycle known for its elegant design and impressive performance. Its lightweight frame and excellent handling make it a joy to ride on winding roads. Despite its age, the Dominator 99 remains an affordable and sought-after classic.
Harley-Davidson XR750
The Harley-Davidson XR750, featuring a 748cc V-twin engine, is an iconic American motorcycle known for its racing pedigree. Its lightweight frame and powerful engine make it a standout performer on both the track and the road. While some models can be pricey, there are budget-friendly options available, particularly for those interested in vintage racing bikes.
Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, with its 648cc parallel-twin engine, combines classic styling with modern performance. Known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, the Interceptor offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Its affordability and ease of maintenance make it a popular choice among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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