There’s no doubt that the motorcycle has come a long way since its conception in the late 1800s. Designers, engineers, and garage hobbyists alike have been tweaking, manipulating, and stretching the definition of what a motorcycle is for centuries. Each monarch along the way gave their interpretations to what would come to be the vast selection of different styles we see today, making them more appealing and accessible to a lot more riders.
Throughout history, motorcycles were desired for a number of reasons, most being utilitarian. But just like anything with a motor and wheels, adrenaline junkies weren’t long to start racing and enjoy riding as leisure, a thrill, and an escape, instead of just a convenient, more cost-effective way to commute. So we asked the team at BT Moto to give us their top three models.
These are 3 of the best-selling motorcycles of all time.
1. The Honda Super Cub
Brought to life by the President of Honda, this scooter-like design became desirable to the masses because of its reliability and practicality. At the time of their inception, it was pretty much impossible to market motorcycles to Women. They were very large, loud, and too most, overpriced, making it unappealing and unattainable for even the average consumer, man or woman. The Super Cub broke down a lot of those barriers being deemed ‘The People’s Bike.’ A mini, unisex, clutch-less bicycle with a top speed of 50-60 mph (depending on the rider). Being manufactured in 15 countries, the Super Cubs have been desired and sold in over 160 countries. Today the Super Cubs are available as a C125 for about $3,500, making it an excellent starting point for new and/or young riders.
2. Kawasaki Ninja
Brought to popularity by the 1980’s Top Gun, Tom Cruise’s Maverick had pretty much everything to do with the rise in sales for the Ninja. Today, the Ninja provides class-leading performance with a smooth and manageable ride, sought after by a lot of new riders. The low seat height and sporty style make these motorcycles alluring to a lot of demographics, making them one of the top-selling bikes of all time. Today the Ninja is available in its 300cc base model, which is ideal for the more petite of riders or those looking for a nice city commute. 400cc, 650cc all the way up to the H2R model capable of hitting 249 mph, holding its title as the fastest production motorcycle in the world.
3. The Harley Davidson Fat Boy
Making its debut in the late 80’s early 90’s, the wide appearance of this V-Twin Softail cruiser became an instant hit with motorcycle enthusiasts of all shapes and sizes. Daytona Bike Week is still largely dominated by this icon with its massive presence and dominant attitude. The film Industry again lending hand to the rise in sales, the famous Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger himself, rode a Fat Boy in the 1991 hit Terminator 2: Judgement Day.
