Not every vintage motorcycle has the charm or reliability that collectors are looking for. Some bikes, despite their age and history, just don’t make the cut. In this list, we’ll explore 21 vintage motorcycles that collectors often pass by, whether due to design flaws, tricky maintenance, or simply because they lack the appeal of more sought-after models.
Contents
Harley-Davidson AMF Years (1970s)
During the 1970s, Harley-Davidson was owned by AMF, a period marked by a noticeable decline in quality. Collectors often pass by these models due to their poor build quality, frequent mechanical issues, and lack of the iconic reliability associated with Harley-Davidson. These bikes often require extensive restoration work, which diminishes their appeal.
Honda CB350
While the Honda CB350 was immensely popular and reliable during its time, it’s often considered too common to be highly collectible. Its widespread availability means that it lacks the rarity factor that collectors seek. Although it’s a well-engineered bike, its ubiquity makes it less desirable for those looking to invest in more unique vintage models.
BSA C15
The BSA C15, despite its British heritage, suffered from a range of reliability issues, including a weak clutch and gearbox problems. These mechanical flaws, coupled with its modest performance, make it less appealing to collectors who prefer more robust and dependable vintage motorcycles.
Suzuki RE5 Rotary
The Suzuki RE5 was an ambitious attempt to bring rotary engine technology to motorcycles. However, the rotary engine never gained widespread acceptance due to its complexity, maintenance difficulties, and the fact that it didn’t offer significant performance advantages over conventional engines. As a result, collectors often shy away from this model.
Norton Commando 750
While the Norton Commando eventually became a celebrated model, the early 750 versions were plagued with reliability issues, including weak frames and troublesome electrical systems. These problems have caused early models to be less favored by collectors, who often prefer the later, more refined versions.
Moto Guzzi V7
The Moto Guzzi V7, although iconic, is often overshadowed by more powerful and refined Italian motorcycles from the same era. Its lower performance and less aggressive styling make it less attractive to collectors who are looking for standout pieces from the vintage era.
Kawasaki KZ400
The Kawasaki KZ400 is a solid commuter bike but lacks the power and excitement of other Kawasaki models from the era. Its basic design and modest performance make it less appealing to collectors who are looking for more thrilling vintage motorcycles.
BMW R65
The BMW R65 is often considered underpowered, especially when compared to other BMW models from the same period. Its smaller engine and less aggressive styling make it less desirable for collectors who prefer the more powerful and iconic BMW models like the R75 or R90.
Royal Enfield Interceptor
The early Royal Enfield Interceptor models were plagued by quality control issues, including oil leaks and unreliable electrical systems. These problems have made it a less attractive option for collectors who often favor more reliable and well-built vintage motorcycles.
Ducati 860 GT
The Ducati 860 GT features an unusual design that wasn’t well-received, even in its time. Combined with its less performance-oriented nature compared to other Ducati models, this bike is often passed over by collectors who prefer the brand’s more iconic and high-performance models.
Laverda 750 SF
The Laverda 750 SF, while a solid motorcycle, is often overshadowed by the more powerful and prestigious Laverda 1000 series. Its relatively modest performance and less aggressive styling make it less desirable to collectors who are looking for something more impressive from this Italian marque.
Suzuki GT750 “Water Buffalo”
The Suzuki GT750, nicknamed “Water Buffalo,” was unique with its water-cooled engine, but its heavy weight and complexity make it less appealing to collectors. The bike’s performance didn’t quite live up to its innovative design, leading enthusiasts to pass it by in favor of simpler, more reliable models.
Benelli Sei 750
The Benelli Sei 750 was groundbreaking with its six-cylinder engine, but it was plagued with mechanical issues, including difficulties in maintaining the complex engine. These challenges, combined with the bike’s relative obscurity, make it less desirable for collectors who favor more reliable and well-known models.
Honda CX500
The Honda CX500 is reliable and unique with its transverse V-twin engine, but its unconventional styling, often compared to a “plastic maggot,” turns off many collectors. Despite its solid performance, the bike’s aesthetics and its “commuter” reputation have led to it being less favored among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.
Norton P11
The Norton P11 was an attempt to blend parts from different models, but the result was a bike with poor handling and reliability issues. Its mix-and-match design didn’t resonate well with enthusiasts, making it a less popular choice among collectors who prefer more cohesive and well-executed motorcycles.
Velocette LE
The Velocette LE was designed as a utilitarian motorcycle, often used by police forces, but its lack of excitement and performance made it less appealing to collectors. Its fully enclosed design and small engine don’t offer the thrill that many vintage motorcycle enthusiasts are looking for.
Indian Chief (Post-War Models)
Post-war Indian Chiefs are often considered less desirable than their pre-war counterparts due to quality issues that arose after the company faced financial difficulties. These later models often lacked the craftsmanship and performance of the earlier bikes, leading collectors to focus on pre-war models instead.
Triumph Trident T150
The Triumph Trident T150 struggled to compete with the influx of Japanese motorcycles that offered better performance and reliability. Its heavy weight, combined with a lack of innovation, made it less appealing to collectors, who often opt for other Triumph models that better represent the brand’s heritage.
BMW R45
The BMW R45 is often seen as underpowered, especially when compared to other models in the BMW lineup. Its smaller engine and less distinctive styling make it less attractive to collectors, who usually prefer the more powerful R75 or R90 models that offer better performance and classic BMW appeal.
Ariel Leader
The Ariel Leader was innovative with its fully enclosed bodywork, but its design didn’t catch on with enthusiasts. The bike was seen as too practical and not exciting enough, leading collectors to pass it by in favor of more conventional and thrilling motorcycles from the same era.
Moto Morini 3½
The Moto Morini 3½, while a well-engineered motorcycle, lacks the power and prestige of other Italian bikes from the same era. Its smaller engine and less aggressive styling make it less desirable for collectors who are often drawn to more powerful and iconic Italian motorcycles like Ducati or Moto Guzzi.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
More from MyCarMakesNoise
20 Greatest British Sports Cars of All Time
British sports cars are renowned for their blend of style, performance, and innovation. From classic icons like the Aston Martin DB5 to modern marvels like the McLaren P1, these cars embody the pinnacle of automotive excellence. Read More
18 Vintage Motorcycles That Have Declined in Value
The allure of vintage motorcycles often lies in their timeless design and storied history. However, not all classic bikes have retained their value over the years. Read More
16 Exclusive Classic Cars That Are Expected to Appreciate in Value
Classic cars hold a timeless appeal and can offer significant returns on investment. As certain models become rarer and more sought after, their value steadily climbs. Read More
