A motorcycle is a vehicle created for true men. Today, there are many different types of this equipment: sports, road, enduro, semi-sports, classic, etc. All of them are in great demand and interest among a huge number of people all over the world. However, as with all things, in this variety of motorcycles there are those that will never die - classic motorcycles. Classics from various countries are very interesting to modern people, and now we will try to understand why motorcycle enthusiasts like them so much.
Classic will never die
As they say, a classic never dies - it's true. This expression applies to everything, including motorcycles. Developed in the 60-80s, iron horses remain popular and beloved to this day. Road classic motorcycles of that time are in demand, despite their age, and the value of such equipment is growing every year before our eyes. Classics lovers all over the world are chasing some exclusive models and trying to reconstruct dying species.
With all this, it is worth saying that almost all modern manufacturers, in addition to producing modern types of motorcycles, also produce classic iron horses. They make a huge contribution to keeping this species afloat. This is why road classic motorcycles will never die in people's minds. At least, this will be the case until they come up with something more modern and original.
Kawasaki
Kawasaki jumped on the retro bandwagon at the last minute, revealing a new classic model, the Z900RS, for 2022. The classic has 948 cubic cm of volume, 111 liters. With. and 98.5 Nm of torque. A motorcycle weighs 215 kilograms if you put it on the scale. A tribute to the Z1 from the 70s in its purest form.
Fill the tank of the Z900RS with 17 liters of high-quality gasoline, and you are ready for non-stop driving for a distance of up to 300 km. In the future, it is worth repeating the refueling procedure so that the interesting pastime does not end. With this matte green version, Kawasaki wants to appeal to the motorcyclists of the modern metropolis.
The secret of the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX is the compressor system from the Ninja H2 sports model, which provides the green beast with 200 hp. With. at 11,000 rpm and 137.3 Nm of maximum torque.
If your ambitions are not so high – Kawasaki Ninja 400. The same “supersport” class, but more down-to-earth. If you weigh the sportbike on a scale, you get only 168 kilograms of dry weight, which is 6 kilograms lighter than the Ninja 300. The Ninja will be a little easier to handle.
The Japanese will produce a children's version of the Kawasaki KX65, as well as a KX250F model, visually redesigned, but technically remaining the same.
Why are classic motorcycles so popular?
Is it really unpleasant to drive and feel the wind, the perfect combination of layout and shapes underneath you, hear the rumble of a classic low-revving power unit and feel like the king of the road? I think everyone will agree that this is cool! Classic motorcycles have a certain magic; they make you fall in love with them and fascinate their owner with their grace and at the same time special notes of brutality. This technique is a lot of fun. They are comfortable to ride.
For example, Suzuki SX750 Inazuma. You don’t want to get off this one - it doesn’t hurt your body like a sports motorcycle, there are no such roars and terrible overloads, vibrations. Once you ride it, you won’t want to trade it for anything else. This is why everyone loves classic motorcycles so much. There is no desire to exchange them for other types; they are comfortable and easy to use. And although the best classic motorcycles cost a lot of money, people are willing to spend money on them because the comfort, emotions, and special character of this equipment are worth paying for.
Classic motorcycles of China
It’s worth starting with the fact that China only produces modern classics with small engine sizes. Such motorcycles may only be suitable for a beginner. Chinese classic motorcycles are SYM, Stels and others. They are perfect for learning how to drive a classic. They are not picky in operation, however, they are not reliable enough in their technical part - but this disadvantage is compensated by the low price of such equipment. These are not recommended for more experienced motorcyclists, although they won’t even look at them themselves. In addition to purely Chinese motorcycles, there are also joint developments, for example, Sagitta. Such motorcycles are already better known, and thanks to Italian spare parts they are famous for their comfort, elegance and reliability. Classic motorcycles jointly produced by these countries are very popular in Europe and East Asia. Having talked a little about Chinese technology, it’s worth moving on to the producing countries of true classics - the USA and Japan.
Two-wheeled classic from the USA
You might be asked: What are the best classic US motorcycles? And without a doubt everyone will answer that this is a Harley-Davidson. This manufacturer is the largest manufacturer of heavy-duty road motorcycles in America, dating back to the company's founding in 1903. It is this company that produces the best classic motorcycles of all time. Even the famous Japanese or Honda ones cannot compare with the American classics, the dream of every motorcycle enthusiast.
Today, among many different models, this company has several that are worth mentioning:
- Harley-Davidson Breakout, a model released in 2013, combines the concept of classic and modern.
- Harley-Davidson Deluxe - the style of the 30s of the 20th century makes you feel like the king of the time and plunge into the history of the motorcycle industry of those years.
- Harley-Davidson IRON 883 - aggressive looks, unbridled power, authentic style - all this applies to this exceptional king of all American roads.
There are many more different models, both older and modern, that captivate the eye and make you fall in love at first sight.
Japanese traditions: Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki
Japan has an equally rich history of motorcycle technology development compared to the United States.
At the current stage of development, this country produces excellent, modern, classic motorcycles. Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki are proof of this. Each of these concerns has a fairly extensive range of motorcycles. These manufacturers are global giants producing motorcycle equipment, including classic motorcycles. I think it’s worth presenting one model from each motorcycle manufacturer and talking a little about them. Kawasaki W650 is a classic motorcycle that has excellent appearance and technical characteristics. The slightly lowered suspension makes it quite stable, the gentle growl of the engine is simply mesmerizing to the ear, and the excellent landing makes it very comfortable even for long daily trips.
The CB750 Cyclone represents classic Honda motorcycles. This model is interesting because it is very reminiscent of a real retro motorcycle from the 1970s: pleasant curves of the wings, a sign on the front fender, the shape of the seat, the instrument panel - all this makes it very pleasant and interesting. This motorcycle cannot disappoint. The 750 cc engine is capable of taking you to any distant distance.
Classic Yamaha motorcycles will be presented by the XJR1300 model. She is notable for the fact that, in addition to her excellent appearance and good driving characteristics, she has a large number of horses in stock that are eager to get out. The motorcycle is very agile, and not everyone is able to conquer it.
Honda
Hondas Stars are the new models of the CB series. Sports naked bikes come with small 125 cc (13.3 hp) or 300 cc 31 hp engines. With. The most powerful option is 145 hp. With. there is still the CB1000R model (photo above). Note that the four-cylinder engine of the top model is visually very similar to the engine first shown on the Neo sports Cafe Concept.
The little CB125R received a six-speed gearbox, a new chassis and upside-down fork, a monoshock absorber and LED lighting. The changes are more global, but since the sales market will be mainly in Japan and Asia, this model is not so interesting to study.
The legendary Africa Twin model received a new type of “electronic” clutch, modified traction control and a more powerful exhaust sound. It has become lighter thanks to a new battery (weighing 2.3 kilograms) and, according to Honda representatives, copes even better with the difficulties of real off-road conditions.
For the 2022 model year, the top-of-the-line Africa Twin version, the CRF1000L Adventure SPORTS, is offered. It has a higher seat position, higher ground clearance, longer suspension travel and heated control grips as standard. The tank holds 24.2 liters instead of the previous 18.8 liters of gasoline.
Additionally, Honda is offering a luxury tourer that is 50 kilograms lighter than the previous Goldwing. The changes made during the work can be called profound: the model has changed visually and technically by 2022. The 126-horsepower six-cylinder engine should easily cope with the Goldwing’s 383 kilograms of maximum “live weight.”
The motocross theme was also developed by Honda in the new year. The CRF 250R received a 5 percent increase in power and a reduction in weight. The standing start will be more intense, which means fractions of seconds and meters won at the beginning of the race. As you know, cross-country races are won in the first meters after the start, so Honda has prepared a great gift for athletes!
Small improvement, big progress: the CRF 450R gets electric start as standard!
Modern classics – quality and style above all!
Today, classics are created primarily because a huge number of motorcyclists prefer modern classic motorcycles. They prefer traditional appearance, comfort, pleasant engine sound and much more. As we have already found out, such equipment is now produced by the Americans and the Japanese. Classic motorcycles from Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Harley-Davidson are united not only by a big name, but also by high quality products. Each part produced by these brands is carefully checked and absolutely precisely installed in its place when assembling the motorcycle. All companies, both eastern and western, try not to miss the notes of style and design that have been defined over the years, with which this or that brand of motorcycle is associated. So, for example, “Harley” can be associated with a brutal appearance, a rough and tough character, while “Kawasaki” can be described as follows: a discreet, fit and aggressive iron horse. It is clear that the flight of design ideas is endless, but one thing in this flight must remain unchanged - these are classic road motorcycles. This is what the manufacturers follow.
What is better - a motorcycle or a car?
When wondering what is better - a classic motorcycle or a car, you should first determine your priorities, determine the boundaries of freedom that you set for yourself. A motorcycle is a vehicle for romantics, thrill-seekers who crave maximum freedom and independence. However, it is immediately worth mentioning that the iron friend is a seasonal mode of transport. You can't ride it in winter. A car is an ordinary tin can, in which you will not feel the wind of freedom, you will not hear the noise of the engine, you will not get caught in the warm summer rain. As always, the choice is up to you - will you seek more freedom or hide behind greater security. The best option for any man is to have both a car and a motorcycle. Moreover, each of them must be chosen with soul, because a person will not get pleasure from those things that he does not like or are unpleasant.
Diamond Atelier Mark II Series
Tom Konecny and Pablo Strigleder of Diamond Atelier kept the style as simple as possible with full detail. The business sense is just as sharp: they've packaged elements of the BMW R-Series into a limited edition "Mark II" motorcycle. Each motorcycle receives a new body, upgraded suspension and 320 mm brake discs with 6-piston Tokico calipers. It's worth noting that this is a great idea.
Choosing a classic motorcycle
When buying a motorcycle, it is very important to imagine in advance what it will be like - this is necessary in order to find exactly the motorcycle that will become your best friend and can take you anywhere.
Classic motorcycles represent a fairly large category of iron horses that are universal in their qualities. This class is intended exclusively for comfortable movement on highways and rough terrain. All models, to a greater or lesser extent, have a classic appearance - they do not have sporty shapes. Such models are divided into two types - old model and new. Retro models are perfect for lovers of the ancient and unusual. The new models are perfect for connoisseurs of simplicity and overall uniqueness of the vehicle; each new model is unique and interesting in its own way.
When choosing a classic road motorcycle, you need to decide on its power - after all, the engine power of such a device can reach 150 horsepower. And here it is important to understand that inexperienced motorcyclists cannot cope with such a technique. When choosing a classic, you need to feel and say: “This is exactly what I was looking for.”
Classic price
There are many manufacturers around the world who create classic motorcycles. Prices for such transport depend on many factors, such as:
- brand;
- driving performance;
- engine power;
- quality of materials used;
- quality and availability of additional options, etc.
All this greatly affects the price. But we can say that on average a good motorcycle will cost about $8,000-11,000. The price may change in one direction or another, depending on the wishes of the buyer and the level of equipment of the motorcycle.
Royal Enfield Bullet by Thrive
Currently, Royal Enfield is on a roll, as are Jakarta founders Indra Pratama and Barata Dwiputra. The Bullet 350 is one of Thrive's more subdued builds, but the older scramblers are incredibly attractive too. With proper fenders, a very comfortable seat and quality construction, you can enjoy it to the fullest without the usual bruises and bumps.
Tips for caring for a classic motorcycle
It’s not easy with a motorcycle, just like with a car, and perhaps even more difficult. You need to take care of this type of equipment very carefully. The motorcycle cannot be left in the open sun, in the rain, in the cold, etc. This means that it definitely needs a garage. In addition, each modern motorcycle is demanding in its own way when it comes to fuel - it must be clean and have a high octane number. All technical components of the motorcycle must be constantly lubricated and kept clean.
The main attention should be paid to the brake systems, they should always be clean and in working order. In addition to the brakes, pay attention to the condition and lubrication of the chain - constantly check its tension, check the play and the condition of the wheel bearings. All these components are very important, since your life and health depend on their serviceability.
Hazan Motorworks KTM
In any other year, this model would have been number 1. KTM Max Hazan received more exposure on the Internet and social networks than any other major and well-known designer. The KTM 520 engine is hooked up to a supercharger and everything else is handcrafted faux mechanical craftsmanship. From the slim frame to the aluminum bodywork and gorgeous black nickel finish, Hazan's latest is achingly gorgeous.
