Top 10 Motorcycle Brands in the World

Picking your dream motorcycle means knowing the top brands first. The motorcycle industry offers amazing choices from different countries. Some brands build fast sport bikes, while others focus on comfortable cruisers. 

Japanese manufacturers lead in reliability, American brands bring classic style, and European makers push technology forward. This guide covers the top 10 motorcycle brands that dominate the global market. You’ll discover what makes each manufacturer special and which one fits your riding needs perfectly.

1. Honda: The Reliability King

Honda leads the motorcycle industry with bulletproof reliability and efficient engineering. Their bikes will end up lasting decades and they will require minimal maintenance. The Honda Super Cub has been the highest selling motorcycle in the history of the world at a whopping 100 million life time sales. CRB series provide the exhilarating sport bike power and the legendary Gold Wing provides the comfort of the prime touring features with advanced features.

The Honda brand is based on quality material and manufacturing specifications. You acquire bikes which hardly require any mechanical repairs and have high re-sale value. Their wide product range has all the riding types of both beginners and professionals. Honda controls in the world motorcycles sales about one-third of motorcycle sales.

2. Yamaha

Yamaha motor company only deals with two-wheeled excellence since 1955 inception. Their performance-oriented design will make you feel pure joy of riding everywhere. The YZF-R1 reigns supreme on all race tracks courtesy of its inline-four potent engine and sophisticated electronics.

Their MT-07 is an amazing value with a parallel-twin engine with a large torque. The Tenere 700 adventure bike by Yamaha has long-travel suspension that is ideal for overcoming any terrain. You benefit from technology derived directly from motorsports competition constantly. Yamaha motorcycles feature exceptional handling and responsive throttle control throughout. Their bikes balance power with rider-friendly characteristics beautifully. Yamaha ranked third in global sales with 4.6 million units sold recently.

3. Kawasaki

Kawasaki Heavy Industries builds nearly indestructible motorcycles known for lasting forever. You can trust their bikes to handle extreme riding conditions easily. The iconic Ninja series revolutionized sport bikes with aggressive styling and incredible speed. 

Their signature green color scheme makes Kawasaki instantly recognizable worldwide today. The KLR 650 dual-sport model runs through anything with simple, reliable mechanics. Kawasaki recently launched the Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 electric models for urban riders. 

You get motorcycles with fewer maintenance requirements and straightforward repairs anywhere. Their engines deliver strong performance across all power bands consistently. Kawasaki focuses on practical durability over fancy features.

4. Suzuki

Suzuki creates powerful motorcycles at affordable price points for every rider. You receive exceptional performance without breaking your budget completely. The legendary Hayabusa stands among the world’s fastest production motorcycles with 190 horsepower. Their GSX-R series wins championships with razor-sharp handling and strong engines. 

The V-Strom adventure bikes provide outstanding fuel economy and comfortable ergonomics perfectly. Suzuki tests every motorcycle through rigorous quality control procedures carefully. You benefit from wind tunnel testing, durability checks, and advanced electronics validation. Their bikes offer good value while maintaining high performance standards throughout. Suzuki sold 2 million units globally, ranking seventh in worldwide sales.

5. Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson started in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as an American icon. You will recognize their bikes by the distinctive V-Twin engine rumble heard everywhere. The Softail models blend classic cruiser looks with modern suspension technology and comfort. Road Glide tourers devour highway miles with huge fairings and premium audio systems. 

The Iron 883 gives you an affordable entry into Harley ownership with authentic styling. Their motorcycles feature extensive customization options through official accessories widely available. You join a massive global community when buying a Harley motorcycle. These bikes hold strong resale value over time consistently. Harley represents freedom and the open road for millions worldwide today.

6. BMW Motorrad

In 1916, BMW Motorrad began production of motorcycles under superior German engineering. You will have their well-known boxer engine design, where the cylinders are protruded sideways. The R 1250 GS adventure bike is the class leader that offers variable valve timing via its innovative ShiftCam. They have an S1000 RR super sport bike that has a power of 205 horsepower and is equipped with race-ready electronics.

BMW is fitted with high-tech features such as cornering ABS, traction control, and riding modes. You get motorcycles tested extensively at France’s Autodrome de Miramas for safety. Their bikes prioritize comfort and technology over raw simplicity always. BMW motorcycles command premium prices but deliver exceptional quality throughout. You’ll find dealer networks worldwide for service and support easily.

7. Ducati

Ducati has combined breathtaking speed with stunning Italian design since 1926 founding. You’ll turn heads riding their performance masterpieces with distinctive styling everywhere. The Panigale V4 super sport bike produces 214 horsepower with sophisticated electronics. Their Multistrada adventure bikes offer versatility with powerful L-Twin engines and modern features. 

The iconic Monster naked bike started a revolution with its exposed trellis frame. Scrambler models bring vintage charm mixed with modern reliability and easy handling. Ducati motorcycles require more maintenance than Japanese brands but deliver unique character. You’ll pay premium prices for their elegant engineering and exclusive feel. Their bikes excel in technology and visual appeal throughout the lineup.

8. KTM

KTM builds incredible off-road motorcycles since 1934 in Mattighofen, Austria successfully. You can depend on their bikes surviving the toughest riding conditions imaginable. The Duke series brings exciting naked bike performance with sharp handling characteristics. Their Adventure models conquer difficult terrain with long-travel suspension and powerful engines. 

The RC sport bikes compete with larger manufacturers despite affordable pricing. KTM motorcycles feature lightweight construction and aggressive styling throughout. You should know about potential issues like ABS malfunctions and fuel pump problems. Their 890 Adventure R excels off-road with advanced suspension and a strong motor. KTM ranks among Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturers today, with an expanding global reach.

9. Triumph

Triumph Motorcycles dates back to 1902 as Britain’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. You’ll ride machines combining classic styling with modern engineering excellence perfectly. The Street Triple naked bike offers precision handling with a smooth triple-cylinder engine. Their Bonneville range captures classic cafe racer style with contemporary reliability and features. The Rocket 3 packs the world’s largest production engine at 2500cc displacement. Triumph’s famous “Triumph Triples” three-cylinder engines deliver unique character and sound. You get motorcycles that blend British heritage with cutting-edge technology beautifully. Their quality control and engineering standards match any competitor worldwide today. Triumph builds bikes that satisfy both traditional and modern riders equally.

10. Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield moved operations to India in 1968 after the British factory closure. You’ll afford simple, tough motorcycles anyone can maintain and enjoy riding. The Bullet model has remained in production since 1901 making automotive history. Their bikes focus on character and simplicity over complex technology and features. Royal Enfield builds motorcycles for riders wanting basic, reliable transportation everywhere. You get air-cooled engines and straightforward mechanics easy to repair anywhere. Their pricing makes motorcycle ownership accessible to millions of riders worldwide. The brand represents India’s motorcycle culture and heritage beautifully today. Royal Enfield holds cultural icon status, symbolizing freedom and adventure perfectly.

Electric Brands

Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles leads electric motorcycle innovation with cutting-edge battery technology. You’ll charge quickly and ride farther than earlier electric models offered. The SR/F sport model accelerates instantly with silent electric power delivery. Their DSR/X adventure bikes go anywhere with removable battery packs. You benefit from minimal maintenance with no oil changes required ever.

LiveWire and Others

LiveWire brings Harley-Davidson expertise into the electric motorcycle age successfully. Energica delivers Italian excellence through electric sport bikes and touring models. Lightning Motorcycle creates speed demons, setting electric racing records worldwide. Electric motorcycles suit city commuting perfectly with zero emissions today.

How to Choose Your Brand

Think about your riding style before selecting any motorcycle brand. Sport bikes thrill on twisty roads with aggressive positions. Cruisers provide comfort on highways with relaxed ergonomics. Adventure bikes handle pavement and dirt confidently. Touring models pamper riders on extended trips perfectly.

Budget matters significantly when choosing between manufacturers. Japanese brands offer excellent value with proven reliability. European bikes cost more but deliver premium features. American cruisers hold strong resale value consistently.

Reliability counts heavily for worry-free riding always. Honda and Kawasaki rarely break with proper maintenance. BMW needs proper dealer service regularly. Research common issues before buying any model.

Safety Matters Most

Every brand builds faster bikes with incredible performance yearly. Speed means nothing without proper protection always. Quality motorcycle gear keeps you safe during rides.

Take professional riding courses regardless of the brand chosen. Skills matter more than horsepower when avoiding danger. Practice emergency braking in safe environments regularly. Ride within your abilities always. The right protective equipment builds confidence for improving skills safely.

Current Market Trends

Adventure bikes grow popular with riders wanting versatility. Riders desire bikes that handle both pavement and dirt. Electric motorcycles gain acceptance with improving technology improves. Smartphone connectivity and electronics expand constantly.

Retro styling remains hot, mixing classic looks with modern performance. Manufacturers blend vintage aesthetics with contemporary engineering. Lightweight bikes attract new riders seeking easy handling. Beginner-friendly models sell strongly as motorcycling grows.

Making Your Decision

The top 10 motorcycle brands offer something for everyone. Japanese manufacturers deliver unmatched reliability and value. American brands provide unique character and community. European makers push performance boundaries constantly. Electric brands represent the exciting future ahead.

Visit local dealerships and test-ride different brands. Feel how each motorcycle handles through corners. Listen to engine sounds and experience throttle response. Check comfort levels during extended rides carefully.

The best brand matches your specific needs perfectly. Speed lovers enjoy Italian sport bikes. Commuters appreciate Japanese reliability. Cruiser fans choose American iron. Adventure riders pick European technology.

Start Your Journey Today!

You’ve discovered the top 10 motorcycle brands dominating the world today. Now it’s time to gear up properly for safe riding! Visit Six Gear and explore our complete collection of premium motorcycle protection. From helmets to gloves, jackets to boots, we have everything you need. Don’t ride without proper safety equipment, shop our motorcycle gear now and hit the road with total confidence!