Motorcycles, often seen as symbols of freedom, rebellion, and style, have captured the imaginations of enthusiasts for generations. Yet, not all bikes bask in the glow of universal admiration. Some of these two-wheelers are celebrated for breaking molds, while others are simply head-scratchers.
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Suzuki B-King
Originally unveiled as a turbocharged concept, the production B-King had a beefy and bulky appearance, mostly owing to its oversized exhausts that looked disproportioned to the rest of the bike. Its angular lines and broad stance made it polarizing among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Honda DN-01
Designed as a crossover between a cruiser and a sports bike, the DN-01 failed to truly capture the spirit of either. It had a bulky rear end, and an awkwardly elongated front, and its continuously variable automatic transmission was a turn-off for many traditional riders.
BMW R1200C
While BMW makes some exquisite bikes, the R1200C isn’t one of them for many. Its cruiser design feels at odds with BMW’s typical aesthetic. The awkwardly placed headlamp and bulky saddlebags gave it an unbalanced appearance.
Victory Vision
Victory’s take on the touring bike segment, the Vision, came with sweeping lines and a rear end reminiscent of a car. The excessive bodywork and bulky rear storage were a tad too futuristic and over-the-top for many.
Honda Rune
With a massive 1800cc engine, the Rune had a peculiar design that felt more like a concept than a production bike. Its elongated stance, unique headlamp, and extensive use of chrome made it stand out — not always in a good way.
Yamaha Niken
The Niken is technically a tricycle, but it’s derived from motorcycles. With two front wheels, the bike looks bizarre, diverging significantly from the conventional motorcycle aesthetic.
Ducati Paso 750
Known for its stunning designs, Ducati missed the mark for many with the Paso 750. Its fully enclosed bodywork hid the engine, a feature many Ducati enthusiasts love to show off, making it look bulky and less aggressive.
Royal Enfield Diesel Taurus
One of the few production diesel motorcycles, the Taurus has been critiqued for its underwhelming design. Its cumbersome appearance, combined with the muted color schemes typical of the model, gives it a somewhat dull appearance that doesn’t align with what many expect from the spirited world of motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson Street 750 (2014-present)
The Street 750 was Harley-Davidson’s attempt to capture a younger, more urban rider demographic. Featuring a 750cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, it is one of Harley’s more affordable models, positioned to appeal to those new to the brand. The bike received mixed reviews, with praise for its handling and criticism for its build quality. It marked a significant departure from Harley’s typical large-displacement offerings.
Kawasaki Ninja H2 (2015-present)
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is renowned for its supercharged 998cc inline-four engine, making it one of the most powerful production motorcycles. It features a distinctive aerodynamic design and a hefty price tag, reflecting its premium positioning. The H2 has sold in limited quantities due to its niche appeal but has been critically acclaimed for its breathtaking performance and engineering prowess.
BMW G310R (2016-present)
BMW’s G310R is an entry-level bike designed to attract riders in emerging markets with its more accessible price point and smaller 313cc engine. The reaction from customers has been generally positive, appreciating the bike’s agility and BMW-quality engineering, although its modest power output has received some criticism from more experienced riders.
Ducati Diavel (2011-present)
The Ducati Diavel combines the power of a superbike with the comfort of a cruiser. Its 1198cc engine and aggressive styling have polarized enthusiasts but also attracted a fan base for its unique blend of performance and comfort. Sales have been robust for Ducati, and the Diavel has carved out a niche for itself as a “power cruiser.”
Honda Grom (2014-present)
Honda’s Grom has a cult following due to its fun-sized stature and 125cc engine, which makes it highly maneuverable and fuel-efficient. It’s been particularly popular among urban riders and those looking for a light, easy-to-ride bike. Despite its small size, it packs a lot of fun, and sales have been consistently strong.
Triumph Rocket III (2004-present)
Known for having the largest-displacement engine at 2294cc in a production motorcycle, the Triumph Rocket III is a blend of massive power and distinctive styling. It has been well-received by those who enjoy its muscle and presence on the road, though its size and weight can be intimidating for new riders.
Moto Guzzi V7 (2008-present)
The Moto Guzzi V7 is appreciated for its classic styling and the character of its 744cc V-twin engine. It has been a steady seller, attracting riders who are looking for a blend of classic Italian design with modern reliability. Its retro appeal has brought Moto Guzzi a dedicated following.
Yamaha TW200 (1987-present)
The Yamaha TW200 is known for its distinctive fat tires and is designed for both on- and off-road use. Its 196cc engine makes it accessible to beginners, and its unique look has helped maintain a loyal base of enthusiasts. Sales have been consistent, thanks to its versatility and ease of use.
Suzuki Hayabusa (1999-present)
The Suzuki Hayabusa is famous for being one of the fastest production motorcycles in the world. Its 1340cc engine and aerodynamic design have made it a favorite among speed enthusiasts. Despite its high performance, it has seen wide appeal and strong sales figures.
KTM 1290 Super Duke R (2014-present)
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R, known as “The Beast” due to its powerful 1301cc engine, has been highly praised for its raw power and agility. It’s not a bike for the faint-hearted, and its aggressive styling matches its performance. Sales have been good, reflecting its popularity among adrenaline seekers.
Aprilia RSV4 (2009-present)
The Aprilia RSV4 is a superbike that blends a 999cc V4 engine with advanced aerodynamics. It’s geared towards the racetrack but is also street-legal, attracting those who desire a high-performance motorcycle. It has garnered a strong customer base and critical acclaim for its engineering and design.
Indian FTR 1200 (2019-present)
Indian Motorcycle introduced the FTR 1200 to pay homage to its flat-track racing heritage. This bike features a 1203cc V-twin engine producing around 120 horsepower, combining performance with a distinctive, aggressive design. The FTR 1200 has been well-received for its nimble handling and modern features, which include a touch-screen dashboard with Bluetooth connectivity and a robust suite of rider-assist technologies.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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