Best 10 Retro Motorcycles

[@denchua]

Kawasaki W800 is waving~

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

yep, that's another "British" standard. I really liked the old 650 from the early 2000's.

[@IggyWildcat]

That’s a beauty.

[@kylerose3174]

Honda needs to get into the Retro game in North America.

[@coolhandchunk]

Although not available right now....the 2015ish Honda CB1100 was and still is one of the most beautiful bikes sold in modern times. Especially the Deluxe model!

[@idioluh5838]

Yes, that's my favorite. As far as I know, it's still being produced, this year model being final edition. Hope I will be able to get one of those some day.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, true, very nice bike. Unfortunately it's not on sale in Canada anymore so I skipped over it.

[@northrider8628]

To bad the cb1100 is going bye bye 😕 it is a awesome motorcycle...

[@DarkChaos751]

I bought myself a brand new 2023 Kawasaki Z900RS as my first bike, and I certainly grew into it, and absolutely love it! I'm 32 now, but man, it certainly helps attracting the older crowd reminiscing about the old and good times of the 1972 Z1, and it helps attracts the ladies as well too lol

[@josephkay7785]

I'd add the W800 - air cooled, 360 degree crank, virtually no modern tech and time machine to the 70's good looks.

[@davidbelknap3101]

Love my RE INT650! Glad it got a shoutout on your video. My riding buddy has a Bonneville T100. Old Dudes mob us every time we ride.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Love it!! Yes, those bikes definitely bring some nostalgia.

[@darrellkinkade9205]

I'm the "grandpa" who back in the day rode a couple of late 60s Triumphs. Just bought a 2022 Triumph Goldline Street Twin. LOVE the new Street Twin! Can actually go from point A to point B w/ NO breakdowns AND the headlight still working!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

It ain't authentic unless there's a puddle of oil everywhere you park it :)

[@ArditiPiave]

Darrell, you're not alone. Back in the day, I bought a blue and cream 1967 Triumph 500cc Daytona-Tiger T100R w/ twin carbs, and 5 years later, a red 1972 Triumph 750cc TR7RV. I still have them both after all these years. They were fun bikes, and I clocked a lot of miles and adventures on those machines. But I don't miss the Lucas electronics, or trying to keep the twin carbs in balance, and the number of kicks to get the motor started, which seemed dependent of what phase the moon was in, or how many people were watching at the time. Lol! Best of luck to you on your new Big T, the new tech on the Triumphs of today can't be beat.

[@dirkdiggler5164]

@@ArditiPiave I've owned several Triumphs of that era, namely years 1955, 1963, 1967, and 1969. The 55 had a magneto so that bike always started first kick. The later ones, when they don't start usually it is b/c the coils fritz out and go intermittent. It'll fool you b/c you might see a spark when you test it, but the coil is actually no good. You can search out an aftermarket Honda 6 volt coil for about $20, and use that they'll start 1st kick, every time. Never had a problem with the lights, except blown light bulbs from overcharging. Replacing the 6v tail light bulb with a 12volt draws enough juice out of the system so that the bulbs won't blow anymore. Honestly, I've clocked 10s of thousands of miles on those bikes, and the only breakdowns I had was because of vibration causing parts like upper cylinder oil lines or brackets to literally crack or fasteners to fall off. Also I had a couple of broken chains which was my fault for not keeping them up to scratch. Those were really great motor bikes in so many ways, and the basic design was in production from 1938 until 1983, and that's an endurance and longevity legend not many other bikes can match.

[@ArditiPiave]

@@dirkdiggler5164 Dirk, wow, thanks for the info. I wish I knew about the Honda coil back then. Speaking of vibration, I remember riding down the road on the 500 one day, decades ago, and hearing a sound like something falling through the bike. When I got home, I reached over to the side of the bike to turn the ignition switch off, and there was no key, and no ignition switch! Just the hole in the side panel, where it used to be. I always knew I had a vibration problem, and did a lot of re-tightening maintenance, but missed that part. I later had the crankshaft balanced, which helped.

[@dirkdiggler5164]

@@ArditiPiave lol yeah if you don't keep everything with loctite, lock washers, and a lock nut, you won't get through 1 summer without parts falling off the bike. There is a true story of a man who bought a 1955 Triumph new in 1955, and immediately rode it across the country, coast-to-coast. The only problem he had, was the gas tank split down the seam in the middle from the vibration. So there you have it lol

[@randomtraveler3363]

Keep them simple and keep them fun.... people with come and enjoy the ride

[@Kolcobrzuch]

I guess would be nice to add here BMW R nineT. But thanks for adding Triumphs:)

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Good call! Those are nice as well.

[@mikehagan4320]

I have to say that all of these Manufacturers give us plenty to choose from. Best Wishes! M.H.

[@JonFromSoCal]

Of all the bikes in my garage, the Triumph Bonneville is easily my favorite. In my opinion, it is the epitome of a cool, “classic” motorcycle. It’s not the best performing motorcycle in my stable but it does get me stopped the most for chats from strangers 😆

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, They're beauty bikes!

[@cambag77]

6:12 beautiful japanese machine! Had Japan stuck to making bikes with these looks, instead of getting too creative with their origami-inspired designs, they could probably have seized up the market completely, being both beautiful and the most reliable ones. Their new vintages kickass! Hope this catches on. Nice shout out to scramblers, I have always distrusted their ability to take on a long adv trip, but always loved their looks. Keep uploading these videos please! After all, bike-talk with someone knowledgeable is always a pleasure. Cheers!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Much appreciated. Japan is definitely my fave motorcycle country and I'd love to see more of those classics. Unfortunately the sales are just not there in North America.

[@scottimusgarrett15]

I'm all about the retro bikes!✌️❤️🙂🇨🇦

[@RockstarVeganRecipes]

Great video! I would say my favourite is the Royal Enfield. :)

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Good choice!

[@SeamusMacMattain]

I would have too, if the Continental GT650 was on the list... but it wasn't.......

[@tzackaria7]

outdated junk made in India, what a joke

[@adventurehobbies1272]

The best one was overlooked here.. R nine t!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, the old air-cooled boxer still lives.

[@Allagi22]

The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is air and oil cooled.

[@larrywade9041]

If I had Jay Leno's money, i'd have one of each. Along with a couple of warehouses, & my own personal mechanics. Might even have 3 or 4 of those cuties that are @ the bike shows running around. But since I don't have all of that, I am quite happy with the bikes I have & a really old lady. Thanks for the video! Cherrio!!!! Have a beautiful day!!!!!!! Illinois, USA

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I think we'd all like to have a Jay Leno garage out back :)

[@blackbuttecruizr]

Nice choice showing the Janus! The 450 is definitely on my list for future additions to my stable.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I love it! Thanks for turning me in that direction.

[@robertadams4415]

Can't wait to get my interceptor out

[@ZediMaster]

Interesting vid. Ride safe, god bless u.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thank you!

[@IggyWildcat]

It’s getting more and more crowded in the retro space and for good reason. However, Honda is slow to this space. I’d like to see an old-school CB 750/550 and a scrambler. We’re seeing teases in India and other markets but still nothing in North America.

[@thedailydecipherwithshanep7855]

You left out my Springer Softail 😊

[@oulupulu]

I love my modern classic because it looks how motorcycles are supposed to look and I ain’t ashamed to admit it. I love my modern commuter bike as well 😅

[@Worshipbyruben]

My kawasaki vulcan 900 classic gets always confused with an old bike. But it's a 2015

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, there are a ton of Japanese v-twins that could be included as well.

[@Peter-mcmcmc]

You've got great taste, man! Excellent, varied choices. ✌🤘

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Glad you liked the vid!

[@edwinbrown3303]

I'm into the xg750 and a Triumph street have both although I still have my street glide too, but I love them all. Litter smaller bikes are fun.

[@edwardjeremias4087]

Well I got my 2022 jet black Bonneville speedmaster and my silver and burgundy 2000 Indian Chief seem pretty happy with both

[@roberthaldeman5312]

I really like the way the Triumph Bonneville look plus they have a comfortable riding position.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, Triumph did a really good job with the whole line.

[@ThanhLai5]

Royal Enfield has left my country because of the poor sale. It's a shame that I couldn't save up fast enough to try out one. Most young riders in my country prefer Japanese sport bikes while the middle-age like to choose Harley (a lot of time because of the brand name).

[@murraehaynes3182]

Another good one👍

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks!

[@coachron3524]

You left out the Triumph Thruxton RS

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, I included a clip of one but didn't mention it by name. I like the whole Bonneville line.

[@ronlheureux7623]

I owned a couple of those 1960s Hondas back then when I was a teen. The CB750 still does it for me. I’m just not interested in those British bike, myself. Not a knock on then. I grew up in Los Angeles and wasn’t really exposed to many of them. Lots of friends owned Kawasaki’s and sone others. My buddies older brother owned a new Triumph Bonneville, which was a real beauty and a thrill to drive, though. The sound was thrilling. I bought a Sportster 883 in 1994 and fell in love with it. I have a SPI, so long highway rides weren’t in the cards. Modding it was my thing. I did all of the work, myself. Terrific job on your video. presentation

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! You definitely have a history with the classics.

[@ronlheureux7623]

@@DifferentSpokesTV When you get old, everything becomes history. Even the hair LOL. PS: Just remembering my friend's three-cylinder, two-stroke Kawasaki. (?) That thing scared the hell out of me when the front tire got airborne hitting 3rd gear in the fast lane doing 85.

[@zacharyfett2491]

I leaned to ride (and try to fix/maintain) a 72 Honda CB750. I’d love to have that bike in my garage again.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

The CB650R is the closest to it these days and it may be scrapped when the new Hornet 750 comes out. I have a video on that bike a few weeks back.

[@robbierides684]

I’m listening to this video while driving a used Hyundai Accent…

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

:)

[@halinabiegalski9509]

All of them are beautiful…

[@soliderarmatang5664]

New rider, in Canada, Ontario, clean record, 28, got M2, did safety course, got a quote for $3k a year for a 2022 Bonnivielle T100 insurance, and this was liability only. FML 🤦‍♂️

[@IggyWildcat]

That’s nuts. Did you shop around? I wonder if we’d be better off with Manitoba’s system.

[@PapaDougsAdventures01]

My jam is the Triumph T120 Bonneville

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Nice blend of looks and performance.

[@regulatorg573]

Great video! Thanks. I myself am smitten with that Kawi Z900rs! To bad they don’t make it for my 6’4” inch frame…..

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, the leg room on those is not the best.

[@bmp72]

What is unfortunately missing from most if not all of these retro bikes is vibrations. I like shovelheads and late 70ies Guzzis because of the vibrations and how alive this makes the bikes feel. Nowadays bikes are so smooth with all their balancer shafts etc, it takes a lot of fun out of motorcycling. Also, lots of old bikes have a much longer stroke than bore, which also has a big impact on a bikes feel..

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, even my Sportster is rubber mounted now.

[@dirkdiggler5164]

You hit the nail on the head. I've ridden newer motorcycles that are "technically" better in just about every way, but the overall riding experience is quite lifeless and sterile

[@danesau1508]

All the pictures of Guzzi's but no mention of them. The V7 should be on the list.

[@richardcrighton8079]

erm. classic 350?

[@TommyAngelo1337]

In term of CB750 successors can't forget the actual successors from Honda, the CB400SF, CB1100, and CB1300SF. Can't beat the classic visible full tubular frame with the inline 4 sitting on it. The SF have some modern upgrades like liquid cooling and VTEC for better performance and they are more of 90s style, but the 1100 stays pretty true to the 750 of old. Though one could argue these aren't really "retro" bikes, since the SF are just old bikes that are still in production.

[@corychartier7961]

I don't think their in Canada yet but Jawa/Yezdi makes some nice classic bikes

[@toine0002]

A comment to help the channel grow

[@bbumble4117]

Moto Guzzi v7 850!

[@dirkdiggler5164]

1930 Scott motorcycle - water cooled 1956 Velocette motorcycle - water cooled 1935 DKW racing motorcycle - water cooled. Fun facts🙂

[@kerryrwac]

Check out The Bike Shed Motorcycle Club, Staff bikes: Gareth's Yamaha Tenere 700 video.

[@TommygunnerKid]

W800 has authentic 1960’s feel, looks and performance with modern day reliability. Why was it missed? Yes it’s not the most popular perhaps because of its performance and high price. But it’s a high quality bike actually made in Japan.

[@jala6707]

You left out one of the most 'authentic' retro motorcycles: the Honda CB1100. This year is its 'final edition'-model in the showrooms (but no longer in North America) so I guess it has now joined the CB750 as it is a classic now too. Also, although you DID show a LOT of Guzzi video clips, you never mentioned the Moto Guzzi V7 by name: an other true retro and a decent competitor to the Enfield 650's.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, I wanted to give Guzzi its due as well. they really didn't fit into the cruiser or British standard categories.

[@stevieneilson2451]

Royal Enfield for me is the only one in reach of us poor mortals. The others are faŕrrrrrrrr to expensive. Motorcycling for the masses was the watch word back in the day now generally is for the well off.... thank Royal Enfield for it's vision...

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, RE USA set up in Milwaukee just down the street from Harley. With their prices I wonder how long it will be before you're seeing a lot of REs in the US.

[@stevieneilson2451]

@@DifferentSpokesTV might keep the price's keen but I doubt it. Keep up the good work to you and Brooke 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🤝🇨🇦

[@johnpost]

I cannot see any of the Retro in the XSR900. It simply looks like a modern naked bike to me. I think Kawasaki is the UJM where you can best see the lineage in the new versions. That Z650 reminds me of the bikes I rode in the late 70’s and 80’s. The green color is just perfection!

[@DaveZee01]

I totally agree re the XSR900. Otherwise, another great video!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, the Z650RS is a real hit with the looks.

[@dshall442]

You had a Hyundai Accent earlier in life... didn't you... :)

[@25Soupy]

Royal Enfield? You've reviewed them in the past, so I'm not sure why you didn't mention them on this video?

[@herwansaputra4080]

RE Classic 500 😊

[@chadgruver4423]

Moto Guzzi v7 lll

[@andypants1000]

Awww no kawasaki W800? Sadface

[@NVK85]

Kawasaki W650 is smoking on the sidelines

[@ivlogmotour]

Nice

[@jk-tn8ry]

I think it's mostly that they look better, lines, silhouette, no rad. Just better look all round. Bobber 's, naked s cafe racers just tick a the boxes for me.

[@life_behind_bars]

You forgot the post WW2 bobber look of the softail Slim......oh wait Harley stop making them 🥺.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, unfortunately one of my favourite Softails. I liked the Army green with the star.

[@29madmangaud29]

You know, "IF"> I were to buy some "NEW" motorcycle, I believe it would be the "Indian Manufactured" Royal Enfield. I like that type of bike/price, it reminds me of simple UJM's.... but not so powerful.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, the 650s are pretty mellow but I definitely like them.

[@gerardmontgomery280]

I think the only obvious missing bike is the RnineT range. I love the Beemer but it's way to small for my 195cm (6'3") frame. I personally wouldn't call Honda's "neo-cafe" bikes retro nice as they are. So I understand why you didn't mention them.

[@Chase_N]

Current "most classic looking" Harley-Davidsons- Sportster 48 & the regular Road King (not the blacked out RK Special model). Seriously, the chrome, Hiawatha nacelle, accessory light bar, & big windshield on the RK makes it the "most classic looking" by far.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, unfortunately Harley didn't have a lot of Road King 107 footage to choose from. I agree though. The RK is one of the best looking bikes.

[@29madmangaud29]

Hey, NOT JUST "LOOKS" like Motorcycles, but "SOUNDS" like Motorcycles... I've owned an '04 Yamaha FJR, and > NOPE: It's a "CAR" with just 2 wheels,,, doesn't even SOUND like a motorcycle,,, (what a bike though!). I kept my '81 Yamaha XS1100H...... it's a "REAL MANS" motorcycle.... sounds like a bike, "IS" a bike! : A UJM! Love 'em, baby!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, the V-Twins, 270 Degree P-Twins and Triples have their charm.

[@geneclarke2205]

What ever happened to choppers? I remember the TV program American Choppers around the Orange County Choppers custom shop. My neighbor has a 2021 Triumph Speedmaster that should get honorable mention.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Wait another five years and the chopper look will be back. I really like the Sportster '72 look.

[@OutsideLands77]

Sorry, but that XSR 900 is hideous! I'd take the MT-09 over it.

[@ArditiPiave]

I wish they would get rid of that out of place 1/2" lip running all the way around the gas tank. It looks cheap production. And it's not retro. Harley, Indian, and BMW are of now the only three manufactures, that I know of, that are not doing that. Some Retro Bikes not mentioned.... 1. Indian Chief Vintage (now discontinued) 2. Indian Springfield (in production) 3. Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe (now discontinued) 4. Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage (in production) 5. Harley-Davidson Road King Classic (now discontinued) 6. Harley-Davidson Road King Standard (in production) 7. Kawasaki W800 (in production) 8. Kawasaki MEGURO K3 (in production) 9. Royal Enfield Classic 500 chrome (now discontinued) 10. Triumph Speedmaster (in production) 11. Moto Guzzi Eldorado (in production? Not sure) 12. BMW R18 Classic & Standard (in production) 13. Yamaha Stratoliner (now discontinued)

[@jala6707]

The MG Eldorado is no longer produced.

[@ArditiPiave]

@@jala6707 Too bad. It was a nice bike. Do you know if the California is still in production?

[@jala6707]

@@ArditiPiave Same story for the California: Moto Guzzi has stopped the production of all "large block" bikes (like the Eldorado, California, Griso, Stelvio, and Norge). They now only sell the V7, the V9 and the V85 (and the upcoming new V100 later this year).

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Good suggestions. I was going with bikes currently available in my market. I've allready heard from the Moto Guzzi crowd :)

[@29madmangaud29]

The real bikes, they're still around, and they're ALL JAPANESE, you'll need to rebuild the Carbs, new tires, chain, battery, but: UJM's are the "BEST"!!

[@cambag77]

True words... the "MADE IN JAPAN" engraved at the side of the engine is the highest reliability certificate in motorcycles.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, that Cafe scene is still pretty huge. It's driven the prices way up.

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I just want to say that India is still doing business with Russia. The money that you give India will go to Russia for more bombs.

[@assessor1276]

True - a naive and irresponsible position by India which is very disappointing indeed.