8 Best Motorcycles of All Time

Over the last century, the greatest motorcycles of all time have developed and transformed into what we know today. However, over their lifetime, there have been many notable and important motorcycles and motorcycle companies that were fundamental in shaping the bikes that we all know and love. Some of these motorcycles have earned their place in the history books due to their lasting impact and legacy. This article is for motorcycle enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone interested in the machines that have shaped the world of motorcycling. Understanding these iconic bikes helps appreciate the innovation and passion that drive the industry. Learning about the greatest motorcycles matters because of their influence on culture, technology, and the motorcycle industry as a whole. Here are some of our favorite and best picks for the top motorcycles of all time.

Brough Superior SS100

Design and Engineering

The Brough Superior SS100 motorcycle, which was in production from 1924 to 1940, was designed by George Brough. The 1937 Brough Superior SS100 is widely regarded as the world's first 'superbike', capable of reaching 100 mph with its 990cc V-twin engine. This motorcycle was seen and advertised as a luxury bike during this time, and was even briefly advertised as the Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles. The development of this bike was shaped through motorcycle competitions in the early 1920s.

Performance Highlights

The SS100 is also legendary for its deep, mechanical V-twin growl, which adds to its enduring appeal. This bike was able to reach at least 100 mph and was customizable to the customer.

Cultural Impact

The Brough Superior SS100 set the standard for performance and luxury, influencing the superbike category for generations.

Vincent Black Shadow

Design and Engineering

The Vincent Black Shadow, which was in production from 1948 to 1955, and was produced in England by Vincent H R D, was a technological marvel of its era, influencing future motorcycle designs with its innovations. One of its pioneering features was the use of dual front brakes, which contributed to its advanced performance and set a new standard for braking systems in motorcycles.

Performance Highlights

This bike was said to be the world’s fastest production motorcycle and was said to have a top speed of 125 mph.

Cultural Impact

This became a fan favorite as people gushed over the beauty of the bike. This bike today has still stolen many hearts, including Jay Leno’s.

Harley Davidson Sportster

Design and Engineering

The Harley Davidson Sportster, which was launched in 1957 and is still being made today, is one of Harley Davidson’s biggest motorcycle lines. The Harley-Davidson Sportster debuted in 1957 and has become the longest-running model for Harley, remaining in production today.

Cultural Impact

As one of Harley's best sellers, the Sportster became a critical model for the company, proving its adaptability and enduring appeal. This motorcycle was one of the building blocks of Harley Davidson, and of the motorcycle culture in not only America, but the world as well.

Performance Highlights

The Sportster is known for its approachable design and reliability, making it a favorite among riders of all levels.

Honda CB750

Design and Engineering

The 1969 model year Honda CB750 is often called the world's first superbike, setting a new standard in motorcycle history. It introduced several groundbreaking features:

• 736cc four-stroke inline-four engine

• Front disc brake

• Electric start

Performance Highlights

This bike, produced from 1969 to 2003 and briefly again in 2007, is an air-cooled, transverse, four cylinder that is able to reach speeds of 125 mph.

Cultural Impact

The CB750 is also responsible for the sound that has become synonymous with modern motorcycling. Part of this bike’s overall popularity is the ability of customization, which made many people fall in love.

Ducati 750 Super Sport Green Frame

Design and Engineering

The Ducati 750 Super Sport Green Frame edition is quite a special bike and would make a great addition to any bike collector’s collection. Released in the model year 1974, the 750SS Green Frame was an instant classic, gaining legendary status for its groundbreaking design and performance. The trademark blueish green tone of this bike is one of the many things that makes it so memorable.

Performance Highlights

With a production run of only 400 examples, as the bike was created after the 1972 Imola 200 that was ridden by Paul Smart, it quickly became highly sought after.

Cultural Impact

The Ducati 750SS Green Frame is considered one of the best investments in motorcycle history, often fetching high prices at auctions. This was one of the most exotic production motorcycles that was available at the time.

Ducati 916

Design and Engineering

The Ducati 916, which was in production from 1994 to 1998, is widely regarded as Massimo Tamburini's masterpiece and one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever created. Its groundbreaking design and engineering set new standards in the superbike category, influencing sportbike aesthetics and performance for decades.

Performance Highlights

Not only has this bike won many victories, but it has also been said to have one of the best fuel-injected V-Twin engines. The 916 model was then replaced by their 996 and 998 models, which still have a similar design, however, have better engines and much more power.

Cultural Impact

The Ducati 916 remains highly influential in motorcycle design and continues to inspire modern superbikes.

Yamaha YZF-R1

Design and Engineering

The Yamaha YZF-R1, launched in model year 1998, is one of Yamaha’s best creations. As one of the fastest bikes of its era, the YZF-R1 redefined sportbike engineering with its compact 998cc inline-four engine and innovative stacked gearbox.

Performance Highlights

Yamaha developed the YZF-R1 after redesigning the Genesis engine, resulting in a much more compact engine and the introduction of the “stacked gearbox,” which has since become popular with other brands as well.

Cultural Impact

This bike was pivotal to the motorcycle community and was a benchmark for modern day motorcycles and motorcycle companies.

BMW R80 G/S

Design and Engineering

The BMW R80 G/S, launched in 1980, is credited with creating the adventure bike category, combining on-road comfort with off-road capability. Its innovative design featured a robust 798cc air-cooled boxer engine and a monolever rear suspension, making it versatile for both paved roads and rugged terrain.

Performance Highlights

The R80 G/S excelled in long-distance touring and off-road adventures, setting new standards for reliability and versatility.

Cultural Impact

By inventing the adventure bike segment, the BMW R80 G/S inspired a new generation of riders to explore the world, influencing countless models and brands that followed.

Suzuki GSX-R750

Design and Engineering

The Suzuki GSX-R750 revolutionized sportbikes by bringing track-ready performance to the streets, starting a new era in motorcycle design. Introduced in 1985, it featured a lightweight aluminum frame and a high-revving 749cc inline-four engine.

Performance Highlights

The GSX-R750 offered exceptional handling and acceleration, making it a favorite among racers and sportbike enthusiasts.

Cultural Impact

This model set the template for modern sportbikes, influencing the design and engineering of performance motorcycles for decades to come.

2000 Harley Davidson XR750

Design and Engineering

The Harley Davidson XR750, the winner of most races in the history of the AMA's (American Motorcyclist Association), has been around since the 1970s, but was finally retired after the XG750R was created in 2016.

Performance Highlights

You may know this bike if you are an Evel Knievel fan. Knievel used this motorcycle from 1970 until 1977, where it rests at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

Cultural Impact

The XR750 is legendary in the world of flat track racing and is celebrated for its dominance and influence in American motorsports.

Conclusion

From the earliest air-cooled engines to the fastest production motorcycles on the market today, the history of motorcycles is filled with innovation, passion, and unforgettable machines. Whether it’s the legendary:

• Harley Davidson Sportster

• Honda Super Cub

• Ducati 916

• Brough Superior SS100

• Vincent Black Shadow

• Honda CB750

• BMW R80 G/S

• Suzuki GSX-R750

• Yamaha YZF-R1

• Ducati 750 Super Sport Green Frame

• Harley Davidson XR750

Each of these bikes has left an indelible mark on motorcycling history. As technology continues to evolve and new models hit the road, one thing remains certain: the most iconic motorcycles will always inspire riders to chase freedom, adventure, and the thrill of the open road.