These Are the 8 Most Popular Classic Motorcycles

Motorcycle sales are continuing to rise, a trend that started during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and has yet to stop. In fact, both Ducati and BMW Motorrad achieved record-breaking sales numbers in 2022, with a respective 61,562 and 202,895 units delivered. That equates to the best sales year ever for both of the legacy European manufacturers.

But not all two-wheeled buyers are looking for a shiny new machine. Many first-time riders want to buy used before they decide riding is really for them. Alternatively, some riders simply yearn for the machine of days past, when carburetors were the only fueling option and radial tires were a brand-new technology.

So far, this demand for used bikes, especially those of the collector or classic variety, seems to be growing. According to data from Bring A Trailer, an online auctioning site that specializes in enthusiast vehicles, the number of motorcycle listings has increased significantly over the last five years. Only 85 bikes were listed on BAT in 2018, while a total of 1530 were listed in 2022. Of the 3214 sold on BAT over the last five years, the most common model years range from 1965 to 1985.

Some common models emerged from the data, with expected classics and some outliers too. Whether you’re looking for a good used bike or trying to buy a piece of collector history, these are the most popular classic motorcycles.