One reason the vintage Triumphs look so good (besides the overall lines and proportions) is the open space around the engine. Everything comes together so it just looks "right".
@senatorjosephmccarthy27202 жыл бұрын
Agreed, Triumphs are among the best looking, best handling at their time, and are #1 for starting. If that baby didn't start by the second kick, no use doing another, it's outa gas.
@MichaelWilliams-jc2ui2 жыл бұрын
10 just isn’t enough! The most beautiful looking bike I think is the Vincent, that engine is just to die for!!!
@terryhuggett37999 ай бұрын
It obviously because he has been brain washed with racing bike lol but I am with you ya can't beat the vinny c shadow for looks
@billruzinsky62379 ай бұрын
I remember as a young teenager having heart flutters over the 70's Norton Commando. Even the name adds to the mystic.
@GreenIslandWoodworks3 ай бұрын
"I remember as a young teenager having heart flutters over the 70's Norton Commando. Even the name adds to the mystic" Me too The late '60's 750s up to early '70's 850 Commandos had something special that every other British bike and almost every bike from that era lacked...it was a prefect balance of style, form, design, lines. Call it what you like, but the Commando had it....they had a timeless and yet modern styling, they still look good today...the black paintwork, gold lettering, the upswept exhaust....they were a big, sleek, fast bike for their time had a real presence and a glorious sound. At the time I could not afford a Commando on apprenticeship wages and rode a '58 BSA B33 500 single (along with a garage full of spares and enough parts to build 3 more lol and also had a beat up Kawasaki Mach 3) I painted it black, stripped it down to basics with flat handlebars and tried to make it into a old style cafe/track racer. This was in Melbourne, Australia in the 70's. One time I was on the Beezer and stopped at a red light. To the rear of me I heard the road vibrate with the sound of 30 or more big bikes revving down through the gears. A biker gang stopped all around me, beards, tatts, straight exhausts, wearing colors...this was when bikers knew how to ride, didn't wear designer clothes or spend all day trimming their facial hair or staring at themselves in mirrors and they all worked on their own bikes....most of them were on Commandos and a few were on Harleys...I was just 17 and to be honest was too scared to look left or right lol The lights turned green. I knew enough about biker gangs that you definitely don't ride off first so I stayed put and waited for them to take off. ..but none of them were moving. So I looked to the right of me and to the left waiting for them to ride off and one of the bikers who was beside me, some big, old guy with a beard and tatts nodded at me, smiled, pointed at me and motioned up the road with his hand that I should ride off first.I pointed to my chest and then pointed up the road in disbelief and they all smiled and nodded...so with a big smile on my face I gunned my BSA 500 single, they waited about 5 seconds and took off and past me giving me a thumbs up. thank goodness I wasn't riding my Kawasaki Mach 3 that day. lol
@deltabluesdavidraye9 күн бұрын
I had several.Made a great hotrod for a few thousand miles.
Missing: The 1974 Ducati SS, the 1976-78 Moto Guzzi Le Mans, the late 50’s-early 60’s BSA Gold Star, and the 1973-74 Norton Commando Roadster. Motorcycle engines are part of the overall beauty and bikes look better when their engines are not covered up by fiberglass. Just one gear-head’s opinion. Among newer bikes the 2002 Suzuki SV650S is on my list. This was the last year before Suzuki went to the hard edged “stealth” look.
@nickohare71873 жыл бұрын
Agreed The Commando is the iconic motorcycle design. Form and function in perfect harmony. Mind you I am biased ! Check my vids on the icon on your left
@pdm22013 жыл бұрын
@@nickohare7187 You got it Nick. The symmetry and proportions of the Roadster are without equal. Tank, seat, fenders, and side covers are in perfect harmony.
@69FOSTER3 жыл бұрын
@@nickohare7187 That red Norton is gorgeous!
@a5-30-31cts2 жыл бұрын
@Nick O'Hare and @PD M - Totally agreed. I'm a '76 Triumph Tiger 750 owner and been into motobikes since the 60's. I think the 1960's Triumph 500 and Bonneville 650 are in terms of beauty among the best, but the 750-850 Commando should always be at or near the top of this list when it comes to the most beautiful of motobikes IMO.
@johnh65242 жыл бұрын
Much the same as I was thinking, but with Le Mans, it has to be the Mk1, I might remove the Commando (I think a Dominator 650ss is better) and replace it with the T160 or maybe a Jota)
@peterhoulis11843 жыл бұрын
Kawasaki z1 900 looks fantastic and came out with an awesome paint job and great styling
@kkiwi542 жыл бұрын
Definitely the most beautiful bike of its day - I can't believe he left it off this list :/
@d.Cog4202 жыл бұрын
it gets my vote too
@paulblouin69552 жыл бұрын
I used to see a '74 or so MV Agusta 750 regularly in the day. The castings were just unbelievable. Such beautiful workmanship.
@Brutaga2 жыл бұрын
Admire, that you stated in your opinion. Got to say, your choices are pretty spot on. I ride a 1971 Kawasaki 500 Mach III triple. What I truly love about her, (other then the reputation) is that they’ve always been my dream bike 💙
@babyfacenc2 жыл бұрын
I like the scalloped tank Grey 1970 model a bit better. The candy colors of all the Kawasaki in that era really pop, and look fantastic, tho.
@hardwaylearner Жыл бұрын
MV Agusta Superveloce and Ducati 916 are the Queen and King of moto beauty
@markrowley12232 жыл бұрын
Triumph Trident T160V and the Moto Guzzi Le Mans Mk1. Both with looks to die for.
@russelljackman14132 жыл бұрын
The 1971 Bultaco Pursang MkIV 250cc was a beautiful bike!
@jimkraft94452 жыл бұрын
My favorite Triumph was the 650c. Dirt bike tires, single carb for more torque, and high pipes. But since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, my 99 Harley Softail Custom is fabulous. And super fun to ride. I am 81 years old and have a bad back, but this bike has a super comfortable riding position. But since we are talking about design, to me it looks like a motorcycle should look. But then I started out riding a 1942 "45" flat head Harley back in the 50's. That was after the Whizzer motor bikes and Cushman scooters.
@needparalegal2 жыл бұрын
The best looking bikes are Harleys and they showcase the naked engine. British bikes are too cluttered and compact. I want a minimal frame and tank and a fat chrome engine.
@geraldscott43022 жыл бұрын
I agree that many of the EVO Harleys are gorgeous. I'm 63 and among my collection is a 1989 FXRS Low Rider. I ride it a lot. Its engine has been rebuilt once. It has just over 100K miles on it and still looks almost like new. It has had some cosmetic restoration.
@monsieurcommissaire16282 жыл бұрын
The Desmosedici RR is beautiful, indeed. I was fortunate enough to be standing about 30 feet away from one near where I lived when the owner started it up. "All Hell Breaking Loose" is an inadequate way to describe the sound. Holy sh*t. When he rode off, you could hear it for quite some time as the engine note rose to a blood-curdling banshee wail echoing off the hillsides until finally it faded.
@tonycollinsworth73932 жыл бұрын
His idea beauty is not mine lot better looking motorcycles than what he picked
@michaeltelemachus5112 Жыл бұрын
To look beautiful, a naked twin, single, triple etc. has to have inclined cylinders; this is why the Triumph T160 looks better than any of the old Bonnies. Plus, it has such a beautiful tank.
@vincecarnevale44062 жыл бұрын
The Yamaha RD 400 was an eye catcher.
@jkemmery3 жыл бұрын
Great list. I would have included the Vincent Black Shadow, the Brough Superior and the Harley FLH
@chrislatchem18542 жыл бұрын
2nd the Vincent , also like the Norton Atlas
@Elgarman2 жыл бұрын
A Hardly Ableson on this list? I don't think so!!!
@jkemmery2 жыл бұрын
@@Elgarman Beauty is subjective, I was giving my own opinion. How capable a motorcycle would be is an entirely different matter. That being said, I love riding my Harley. When I was younger, I didn't think I would, but they are very fun to ride. That massive torque is quite enjoyable. Don't knock it until you've tried it, my friend.
@Elgarman2 жыл бұрын
@@jkemmery Of course it's subjective, and everyone has their opinion. Yes, I have ridden a few of these machines, and the torque is impressive. But the headline is 'The 10 most beautiful motorcycles of all time', and not the ones with the most torque etc.. The only Harley I'd rate in the beauty stakes is the old XR 750. When it comes to sheer elegance, look at the Triumph T160 or a Honda CBX. The Harleys look cloddish and clumsy in comparison. Just my opinion.
@jkemmery2 жыл бұрын
@@Elgarman See, I think the XR 750 is incredibly ugly. The FLH is the classic cruiser silhouette.
@larry47892 жыл бұрын
Norton Commando 850 mkIII, RC30, Honda 500/4, Moto Morini 3 1/2, Ducati 916, Vincent Black Shadow, Triumph Hurricane, Various MV's and Desmos, Z1 Kawasaki and too many to mention, all beautiful.
@larry47892 жыл бұрын
Aprilia RS250 too
@worldwyn2 жыл бұрын
Great list of beautiful bikes! I would add the BMW R90S. Some very classy two-tone fade paint schemes and a bikini faring. Really stood out against the competition at the time. These were beautiful bikes in terms of performance as well. Placed 1st and 2nd in the very first Superbike race, held at Daytona. The first United States AMA Superbike Championship was won in 1976 by British rider Reg Pridmore on a R90S. The complete redesign coming with the /5 series transformed the BMW motorcycles into formidable performing machines with amazing handling. I could run away from my buddy on his Triumph 650 in the mountains west of Boulder, Colorado, on my R50/5.
@stevek88292 жыл бұрын
I don't know about the 500, even the six hundred was way slower than my '72 R75. It beat a number of bikes and surprised me. Its only flaw was a head shake as you approached 100 mph. You had to speed up a bit more and it went away. Now, I would just slow down. Yea, Reg P really showed them. Oh PS, I test rode that 900 when it came out and you're correct, it was really a great ride. Now, I'm old with a Harley and a Wing. 😩
@brianglover73582 жыл бұрын
Honda 1967 305 scrambler Ya gotta love it.
@1jostaclo2 жыл бұрын
Mid-1980s Honda VF1100S Sabre with the Hondaline Sport Fairing would be worthy of consideration. I had one for 17 years and 160k mi.
@winbobmarks82362 жыл бұрын
Just past 7:00 is the Velocette Thruxton. What caught my eye in particular was the Angle Adjustment Bracket for the rear shocks! I've never seen that before! Looks like a great & simple design function!!!
@colinpate30592 жыл бұрын
If lines are beauty, the Harley Davidson Sportster has to be on your list. The gas tank is iconic, the same side exhaust into those gracefully shaped mufflers and the oval air cleaner all fit into the lines of the V twin monster that the bike was built around. I owned a 72 sporty, kept it stock but tastefully refined it's hardware with polish and chrome. Saddle hight was 25 inches of the ground and the rider sat down in the bike and looked real real good riding it. It was a girl getter.
@theoldman88772 жыл бұрын
I had 5 sportster, the fuel tank was the first thing I changed ! Never liked the flat bottom. The teardrop shape on the big twins to me was much better looking.
@johncolchester2 жыл бұрын
Mid 70s Sportsters should have made the list but I would put the 1978 XLCR way near the top personally
@rogerthat10-472 жыл бұрын
I've watched this a number of times & every time I'm disapointed by the lack of 2 strokes, I have a Suzuki RGV500 & it is Beautiful, I also have a Yamahe RD500 & that, along with the 250 & 350 LC's are truly magnificent, each & everytime I stop somwhere on them people collect & just talk & talk about what they had back in the day, & how beautiful & timeless the design is, most comment that they look even better today than they did when they were new. Please do a series about this, I guarantee it will be popular with both old & new rides & even with those that did ride but for some reason can't, I couldn't for nearly 3 years, some days were beyond painfull, just thinking I would never ride again, I even sold all but 1 of my 37 bikes that I bought as "Basket Cases" because It broke me to look at them, motorcycles are a "TimeMachine" they take you back to better times if you are riding them or not.
@RosalinaPickstone2 жыл бұрын
I think the BSA Gold Star eclipses the Velocette Thruxton and, regarding classic bikes, I consider the Brough Superior more stylish than the BMW. AS a small bike, the BSA SS80 stood out to me. The most beautiful bike of all time? - the Vincent Black Shadow series C.
@gabrieloneill9682 жыл бұрын
The Moto Guzzi California. From any angle, a work of art.
@martinscott-reed53792 жыл бұрын
My God, the Vincent Black Shadow series C is the most stunning looking bike. I'm also a massive fan of the looks of the Brough Superior SS100
@christophermackey25702 жыл бұрын
Indeed! Our reviewer omitting the Vincent beauty is hard to forgive! I once owned a Rapide, still a great looking and great engineered machine. I love the Vincents simply because of their way ahead of their time design and superb engineering.
@phillipmitchell58793 жыл бұрын
Nice list. The Triumph 650's - Yes! - esp. '67 Bonnie. I'd add the 64 Norton 650ss, 66-68 Norton 750 ATLAS, the 66-69 BSA Lightning 650, the 74 BMW R90/S (in black/smoke/silver), 97-2007 Honda 1100 Shadow Spirit (sans backrest), 96-2014 H-D Fat Boy & Softtail Deluxe, to name a few...
@kimhorton61092 жыл бұрын
I bought an Atlas in Guam in 1963 or 4 as my third bike, right after a Triumph Tiger. It was a shame the speed limit on the island was 45mph but I needed to learn a little restraint or I’d have killed myself. I didn’t stay on the island long enough that the bike had the problems you hear about like difficult starting or points problems so it was a great honeymoon.
@phillipmitchell58792 жыл бұрын
@@kimhorton6109 Interesting. The 45 mph limit was probable a factor in your lack of issues w/ the Atlas. At higher speeds & around 5000 rpm, the shakes were severe on the rider & on the bike. Esp. w/ that 3.5" stroke. That's what inspired the 'Isolastic' engine mounts of the later Commandos. Still, I loved the Atlas - they were beautiful. I'd love to have a '66 or '67 candy-apple red Atlas resto. - w/ blueprint-balanced engine & electronic ignition.
@jamesvale9922 жыл бұрын
1972 h2 750 kawi bar none the best looking for me and the exhaust note chilling !!
@davidwarren92043 жыл бұрын
I would have swapped out the Ducati for a mid-1970s Ducati 900SS - absolutely gorgeous and iconic then and now. Plus, I had one, so kind of biased :)
@Shamshiadadd2 жыл бұрын
...and perhaps the beautiful Laverda RGB 1000....
@a5-30-31cts2 жыл бұрын
@David Warren - Good catch! I have to agree - that 900SS has got to be one of the most beautiful of Ducati's. Even as a '76 Triumph Tiger 750 owner, I think the 900SS should have been on this list.
@peggygeren41692 жыл бұрын
All of the 1970s Ducatis look great to me. I'd love to have a 350 Scrambler.
@kzoo40532 жыл бұрын
Good looking, yes. I bought a new SS in 1986 I think. First thing I noticed was the thing needs a basket ball court or even a football field to make a u turn. Then I took a 200 mile trip to Santa Barbara and back. My impression: the seat was carved out of wood, the wheels were attached with steel struts. It was the most painful trip ever on a motorcycle. And I had ridden Hondas, Yamahas, Norton, Triumphs, BSA’s and Kawasaki before I tried Ducati. I sold it very quickly after that trip. Will take a Norton Commando Interstate any day, from coast to coast like the trip I took in 1974 in 5 1/2 days. Norton is more beautiful, too. This is, of course, only my opinion.
@flyhouseoftruth4702 жыл бұрын
1- Harley-Davidson Softail Custom FXSTC 1340 Evolution... Late 1980s thru mid 1990s... 2- Honda - CB550-four... Mid to late 1970s. 3- Kawasaki - KZ-1000-LTD... Late 1970s to early 1980s. 4- Honda CB-900... 1980-82
@alainbrisebois83342 жыл бұрын
For me, it is a KZ 440 1981 with a cafe racer wind sheild. It was my first love. I 've been in love many times after...
@guypehaim10803 жыл бұрын
A fully equipped Harley Davidson Electra glide is one I think should have been on your list.
@joebutlersnr70172 жыл бұрын
It's funny but when the Suzuki katana came out in the early 80s I thought it was the most ugly bike ever , then a few years later I thought it was the most beautiful bike ever.
@snakeplissken54802 жыл бұрын
triumphs t160v and norton commando roadsters still do it for me , must be the forward slope of the engine , and an orange jota still makes me go all wobbly with lust
@Elgarman2 жыл бұрын
You mean T160. I agree.
@TimWright6232 жыл бұрын
I can't believe no one mentioned the Britten V1000. A true work of technical and artistic beauty.
@babyfacenc2 жыл бұрын
Think he was shooting for production bikes that anyone could buy.
@monsieurcommissaire16282 жыл бұрын
I love these kinds of lists. There are no wrong answers. Mine would have, at the very top, the MV Agusta 750 GT. More subtle styling than the America, it's just a perfectly gorgeous standard bike with an insanely beautiful engine. I'd also include the Triumph T160 Trident, Kawasaki H1, Kawasaki Z1, Honda CB750, Honda CB500, and Honda VF1000R
@stevek88292 жыл бұрын
MV Agusta looked especially good with G Agostini winning everything on them.
@adamwait1860 Жыл бұрын
I disagree, no MV Agusta belongs on this list. The best MV Agusta is Ok looking at best.
@michaelb.42112 Жыл бұрын
The BMW R 32 is stunning. I like your list in general. Number 1 to me would have to be from the 1920's. That era of bike is just so romantic to me, although it was a horrible time in 1929.
@3thomasdm Жыл бұрын
of all the bikes on your list the BMW R32 is the most beautiful.
@doctordapp3 жыл бұрын
For me the most beautiful bike is the gilera saturno 500, exactly the parts needed, no extra's, beautiful lines (perfect in red!). That's my personal pick.
@gregorydunn42833 жыл бұрын
I owned a 1969 m.v 750 s one of the most iconic motorcycles ever made they sound like no other motorcycle ever made as well with all gear driven overhead cams and unfiltered carbies on the intake it truly sounds like an f1 car at full song mine was not a sport america was an earlier European model with fontana four shoe twin front brakes and a twin shoe rear and to this day are still very rare
@gregorylunsford39912 жыл бұрын
All your picks are beautiful .... But You had 4 styles of the same type. I'm surprised the Iconic 1969 Kawasaki Mach III - it's advanced design in 1969 way ahead of it's time.
@assessor12762 жыл бұрын
Too many look alike red Italian bikes on the list IMO (and waaayyy too many occurrences of the word “aggressive”). What about the 1977 BMW R100RS, the Norton Commando, the BSA Gold Star, the Honda GB500, the Harley-Davidson Electraglide…..? Those were bikes that people could actually own and ride and not some mega-buck unobtainium racer.
@mattcuddy8143 жыл бұрын
1971 Honda CB350. One of the best looking vertical twins ever produced. Known for reliability. 100 MPH top end. Keep the oil clean, and scrape out the oil slinger, it will run forever, no cam bearing issues (or should I say lack of.)
@bandaddie2 жыл бұрын
I agree though I preferred the CB450.
@monsieurcommissaire16282 жыл бұрын
I agree as well. A very fine looking motorcycle. That era's Hondas had great styling. The CB500/4 was lovely too.
@markperry2223 жыл бұрын
What! No Kawasaki Z1?
@1BulldogBob2 жыл бұрын
1976 BMW R90S in Red. 1973 Yamaha TX650.
@lewjames66882 жыл бұрын
Original Yamaha RD400. Best looking Japanese street bike ever.
@justmike29442 жыл бұрын
My bro got a V MAX from the early 90s and i think its the most beautiful bike I've seen .
@lukeiamyourfather35113 жыл бұрын
As a Ducati 916 owner,good to see this iconic bike included. Many would say the best of the best.I would not disagree.
@DonLeist3 ай бұрын
The Triumph Bonneville of the 1960's and seventies was pretty sharp looking and a pretty good motorcycle to boot!
@percytom92522 жыл бұрын
Them hard-tail beemers and the Superglide Shovelheads [+the sound!] fill my dreams.
@lrowlands53 Жыл бұрын
Great list. Thanks. The Tamburini bikes are breathtaking. I had a Ducati 748S (the same form/design as the 916 998, etc) for a few years and it is a thing of beauty. I remember it like a girlfriend who got away - sweet reminiscence.
@collyernicholasjohn Жыл бұрын
When I started in the 70s not everyone wanted one, but most us envied any owner of a Ducati SS. Always reminded me of a greyhound at full stride. Personally love the BMW R90s, too.
@jasonminton96812 жыл бұрын
From numbers 6 to 1 I’m absolutely right with you but to completely omit the Vincent black shadow is unforgivable. Lol
@philsmith23462 жыл бұрын
The old Beemer is a fantastic addition. Excellent choice. The Honda 305 cc "Dream" deserves serious consideration. Not a big motor, but a really nice bike all the same.
@wmden12 жыл бұрын
I agree with both bikes, although neither would be my favorite. The Honda 305 Dream was a very unique design, the 150 also being a basic small copy of it, or the other way around. I owned and rode a 150 Dream. Wish I still had it. I wanted a 300, as most around my area called it back then, but it didn't happen.
@JamesCouch7773 жыл бұрын
They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder so I can appreciate this list. Mine would be quite different 😊👍 some of them anyway, the Bonnie is still the best looking bike of all time 👍
@bartmotorcycle3 жыл бұрын
I think if I were voting it would be between the F4 and the bonneville. I have a new appreciation for exotic sport bikes but yeah I'd still lean towards the old triumphs. Thanks for all the support man!
@JamesCouch7773 жыл бұрын
@@bartmotorcycle keep up the good work 👍
@pdm22013 жыл бұрын
The Bonnie is certainly one of the best lookers. If I owned one the oil tank & side cover would match the colour of the fuel tank.
@concernedcitizen58263 жыл бұрын
Would have included Kawasaki Z1b, Vincent Black Shadow, Guzzi Le Mans mk 2, BMW R90 s orange, Honda cbx 1000. Triumph Trident T160, Langen 250 2 stroke. Love your choices too though!
@davkarshobby24682 жыл бұрын
The Velocette Thruxton was a beautiful bike standing still which was just as well because that it how my one spent most of its time.
@paolafelixmatta697 Жыл бұрын
Me gustó mas el modelo 2, DUCATI 916, y a ti cual te gustó más?
@threepot3 жыл бұрын
Surprised you didn't include the Vincent Black Shadow? The first superbike?
@bartmotorcycle3 жыл бұрын
It's up there for sure
@georgeveneziano2754 Жыл бұрын
Awesome videos sir really really enjoyed all of them. You have come a long way. From your start to now really polished now thank you
@olddube2 жыл бұрын
The Bultaco Metralla Mark 2 belongs on this list.
@69FOSTER3 жыл бұрын
I would add the Husqvarna, Penton and Bultaco from the early 70's dirt bikes and the Honda CB750 as well as the other 60's CB Hondas. I agree with all the Brittish bikes from the 60's, Norton, Triumph and BSA. 1960's BMW's look cool. Not a fan of most modern motorcycles, but I like the 1982 Yamaha XJ 550 RJ Seca. IMO, the best looking new bikes are the Indian Chief cruisers. Obviously, I'm a fan of the more traditional motorcycles.
@Toast-ej2lr6 ай бұрын
Old guy here and I can't pick a winner. I think Triumph vertical twins both pre unit and unit construction are great looking engines especially from the right side. Seeing the engines and cables have something that today's bikes don't. The popularity of today's retro and naked bikes lead me to believe people agree. This list is way to short. Again I can't pick a winner. I would kill for a Norton Manx. On the flip side disappointed no 2 strokes were included as the Tz750 was a production bike and my biggest mistake in life was selling mine.
@stephencallil65122 жыл бұрын
The Kawasaki Z1 and the Honda CBX Should be on the list.
@TheKevphil2 жыл бұрын
That first MV Augusta you highlighted was pretty cool, I'll admit. But MY favorite was (don't laugh!) the generally unassuming Honda CL-450. Based mostly on the chonky-looking DOHC engine, the front fork gaiter covers, and the upswept pipes with grill, it had just a very visually masculine look. Generally, the cooling fins on the air-cooled four strokes of the '60s-'70s are sorely missed today. The Kawasaki Z900RS actually has faux-fins (lol) which I think really enhance the engine appearance. While your consideration and criteria are no doubt more sophisticated, there are, as you said, no "wrong" answers. Great video!
@fearsomename45173 жыл бұрын
I would include the '36 Harley Knucklehead, and the '50 Triumph Thunderbird. Good list though.
@TheNobbynoonar2 жыл бұрын
All motorcycles are beautiful, here’s my ten. Yamaha RD400, Kawasaki Z1R, Yamaha XT500, Ducati SD900, Kawasaki Z900, Norton Commando, Triumph 500 twin, Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans, Laverda Jota, first model Honda CBR900RR.
@markphillips88242 жыл бұрын
I give you kudos for tackling this. Whats beautiful depends so heavily on each individuals riding taste. I agree that the Bonneville and the BMW has to be on anyones list. Good job on your part, something for me to think about.
@lawrieyoutube437511 ай бұрын
Oh boy! I feel a lump in my throat. I rode a 1964, 650cc T120 Bonneville 4 speed, in the 1960s. All black and chrome. In Brisbane Australia. It was a beautiful bike to ride. It would burble happily around the city and was very maneuverable, or take off leaving almost everyone else in the dust if you changed down and grabbed a fistful of revs. Instant torque. It had a certain feel on the road. It was extremely responsive and I hardly ever needed to use full throttle to really accelerate and fly. With the 360 crank it was very low engine vibration. When my mates and I swapped bikes for fun at times they were green with envy at how silky the ride was. Especially the owners of the new Japanese bikes that were taking over. I don't know how anyone put up with the 180 crank Japanese twin. They made your hands go numb, quite literally. Much worse than a single, especially the very smooth Velocette 500. My Bonnie was light and easy to ride. A bit 'tight' at high speed but what bike wasn't back then. It is hard to describe just why my Bonneville was so, ummm - right. I'm not talking about the specs, looks etc. It kind of fitted me. It was versatile and easy to ride and yet would snarl and intimidate when you felt like doing that. It was less an extension of your personality and externals (though it was constantly admired) and more like being an extension of your mood. I've had a lot of bikes and cars in my 75 years and nothing has ever come close to the feeling of oneness or completeness that my Bonnie provided. And soooo good looking. I really miss it - still. I am staggered that it has been reincarnated in the new retro release - better than ever. The new one appears to have a near identical frame/forks/trailing-arm architecture and riding position. What a magical thing that the modern iteration has captured so well the deep spirit of my T120 original Bonneville. Ithink the 1960s Triumph Bonneville might well be the one best, if not the best, all round bikes ever made. I used to take my girlfriend out on it. We are still married. I really miss my old Bonnie. Cheers Lawrie.
@arlandgaylor2 жыл бұрын
Good job, big Honda fan, that RC30 was right where it needed to be.the Bonnie’s and the Beemer were amazing, im not a real big Harley fan but there were a few that should be in the list, but I’m not gonna make a rant over it. All in all our taste are close. Thanx for the video
@martinmcgimpsey97503 жыл бұрын
First time I saw a Triumph, was in 1968! It was it was a Bonneville. It was a deep, dark purple! What a beautiful bike!
@bartmotorcycle3 жыл бұрын
Yeah that must have been a 67 bonneville. That's one of my favorite colors
@martinmcgimpsey97502 жыл бұрын
It might have been a 67! It was awesome! Black seat, blacked out frame and the tank was a deep dark metal flake purple! Anytime I see one on You-Tube my mind goes back to that bike and that would be a favorite color for sure! It had blacked out handle-bars that were a little bit larger than normal ones I’ve seen, but no we’re near ape-hangers ! It was truly a beautiful bike! In fact if I had one that’s exactly what I would do with it! Thank you for responding! Nice to meet someone with similar taste!
@paddyglenny2 жыл бұрын
As the author stressed at the beginning, this competition is to be judged on beauty alone, in which case ditch the first bike, the 80's Honda as by no objective standards could that be described as beautiful, ditch the MV 750 America and replace it with the 1972 MV 750S which is way better looking, plus to have a top 10 list without the 1974 Ducati 750 Sport and a 1960-ish BSA DBD34 Gold Star in Clubman's trim, is crazy. Just saying.....Oh! I forgot the Mk1 Le Mans.
@paulscofield8506 Жыл бұрын
I know it’s a personal thing but for me only two bikes here cut it . The pre- unit Bonnie ,and the MV Augusta. My list . Bennelli Tornado Tre900, 1970s Ducati 900ss, Laverda SFC 750, Ducati 250 Desmo, pre unit Bonnie, Norton Commando Fastback, Vincent Black Shadow, 1937 Triumph Speed Twin, BSA Goldstar DBD34, Norton Commando 750ss ( I’m a sucker for those high rise exhausts)
@notwocdivad3 жыл бұрын
Surely NO list of beautiful motorcycles should be without a BSA DBD34 Gold Star ?? a sculpture in metal worthy of Da Vinci, even heard it called "2 wheeled porn" a few times!
@RJ-fn7mf3 жыл бұрын
My favourite too
@bikesandwrenches3 ай бұрын
Great video. Biased towards British and Euro bikes, and disagree with the confusing criteria, leaving incredibly gorgeous bikes from other countries out. Having said that, all these bikes are absolutely beautiful and great, and are some of the greatest. Thanks.
@machendave2 жыл бұрын
I owned a 1986 Honda VFR750F RC24 in 2008, Fantastic bike.
@fredvanderlinden89082 жыл бұрын
Great choice. However one Japanese bike deserves to be on this list. Kawasaki 500 2 stroke from the seventies.
@daytona955joop2 жыл бұрын
This is fun! Mk1 speed triple. Honda CB400/4 Laverda Jota Guzzi 850 Le Mans Triumph T595 Daytona Yam XT500 RD350LC Suzuki X7 BSA Gold Star 350 Vincent Black Shadow.
@TheAdventuresOfDougan2 жыл бұрын
Well, each to his own. You must be a big fan of fiberglass. That's usually where I draw the line of 'beauty' (fiberglass being on the other side of it). A few of my faves, a 1939 Indian Sport Scout 101, a Vincent Series C Black Shadow, or one I owned, a 1970 Norton 850 Commando Fastback.
@bartmotorcycle2 жыл бұрын
Generally I agree with you, I'm more keen for the old, more exposed bikes. But ive started to really appreciate some of the post 1990 bikes
@warwickwearing5042 Жыл бұрын
Always great videos! Although I don't understand your like of MV Agusta's
@Xynudu3 жыл бұрын
I would have to agree with the number one pick. It's a difficult task as there are so many beautiful machines out there. Laverda SFC and Ducati 750 SS could also be on the list, but from a purely modern styling exercise the F4 and 916 are hard to beat. Interestingly penned by the same man. There are very few Japanese m/c's that take your breath away. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so there is unlikely to be much agreement on what constitutes "beautiful". Good video. Cheers Rob
@johnathanross21222 жыл бұрын
Should have titled this video 10 most beautiful European bikes of all time with one Japanese bike thrown in.
@wschultz2451594 ай бұрын
I've been riding for 60 years. My first bike was a 1968 Bridgestone Hurricane Scrambler (yes, the tire maker who bought Firestone) chrome tank with candy apple red paint job. It had a variable 4 or 5 speed tyranny. You had to down shift in 5, 4 you could go from 4 to neutral, then 1. Kinda dangerous. I've had K1 Honda 750, Triumph Bonneville, Kawasaki LTD 1,000, Suzuki 1,000, and 2 Harleys. First one, a guy was filling up a sea container and shipping all of them to Australia. They are in high demand there. I still have my Road King. I'm in my 70's and don't get fatigued riding it. I love the sound, and you can get over 100,000 miles on them. Most of the bikes shown were from the last century (even way before I was born). It looks like the author is partial to ANTIQUES.
@stephenmcfarland5683 Жыл бұрын
I had a Yamaha Seca 750 - to my mind the integrated styling & the hiding of brake reservoir made it the best looking bike ever!
@roycolglazier1061 Жыл бұрын
Had one, loved it! Then - stupid me - wed an anti-m'cycle woman, who quit me after 30 years! Had I been smarter, I'd still have the bike...
@senatorjosephmccarthy27202 жыл бұрын
#1 All Time Beauty Champion of the World for production motorcycles is 🔹 Suzuki Intruder 700 and 1400🔹 6: 34. Have to agree with most of your picks, surely including the 1937 Triumph Speed Twin at One help is the seat is close to the rear fender. 10: 10, That Bonneville is absolutely perfect. It reminds me of the saying You don't know what you've got until it's gone.
@threepot3 жыл бұрын
My father had a velo 500 clubman back in 59. He took it up to 116mph.
@larryloef90562 жыл бұрын
My 2001 Honda valkyrie gets people drooling over it's looks EVERY time she's out !
@rogerthat10-473 жыл бұрын
This list could go on forever, there are so many beautiful bikes out there, & you haven't even scratched the surface, just take a look at some of the manufacturers that are not around anymore, some of them were as elegant as "Cleopatra" & about as costly as she would be to own, I truly believe my "Panther 650" single was a beautiful bike, even more so than some of these, but it missed out due to the constraints you put on your list.
@aceroadholder21853 жыл бұрын
I had a 65 M120 and it is one of the most graceful motorcycles made.
@rogerthat10-472 жыл бұрын
@@aceroadholder2185 Like I said, this list could go on forever, it would be even better without the Vespa.
@zander87522 жыл бұрын
Saw a dark green 916 in a dealership the other day, not for sale just display. Must have drooled for like 30min 😅
@GrotrianSeiler Жыл бұрын
I agree with all of your choices, I’m just sorry you didn’t include the Vincent Black Shadow. That bike immediately comes to mind when the topic of most beautiful comes up. A picture of one should be in the dictionary under “striking“. Such an incredible design.
@roycolglazier1061 Жыл бұрын
AGREE! Perhaps the single MOST desireable m'cycle EVER built!
@MaanasMahesh2 жыл бұрын
I would have included: The Yamaha RD350, Kawasaki Z1 and the Suzuki GT750.
@brainfleming87562 жыл бұрын
Back to the days of my youth, I would add the Norton Commando production racer with the Atlas style mufflers. Still in lust over that one.
@enriquesouffle99262 жыл бұрын
Back in the day when m/c were more simple machines, there wasn't much flexibility in styling. The engine, frame, wheels, etc were what they were. These parts designed more by engineers. Except the fuel tank. In this part there was much freedom for design. I was floored the first time I saw the Yamaha YDS-3. The whole bike had a clean, modern look, but the tank was pure genius. Even today I cannot describe it in words, or try to make an engineering drawing of it. It was curvaceous, and, yes, very sexy. The concept got a strong start with the YD-1 and evolved. I always thought it looked best with a two-tone paint job (blue/white my fav) which accentuates its form.
@iancrossley66372 жыл бұрын
Norton should have a spot. The pipes alone.
@pdm22012 жыл бұрын
Yes. Reverse cone mufflers! The Norton timing chain cover looks good too. So do the polished stainless steel fenders.
@vivangreco17102 жыл бұрын
Three words, Vincent Black Shadow
@njmitchell6412 жыл бұрын
Vincent Black Shadow 4 me......beautiful to look at and god so fast for its day .............How can you overlook this work of art??
@joannedickie78632 жыл бұрын
The Bimota DB1, any roundcase Ducati 750, Vincent Black Shadow & Norton Commando Fastback are missing but I do agree the 1960s Triumphs had timeless styling.
@paulbilski97323 жыл бұрын
All those boxy crouch rockets on the list are clearly NOT beautiful. The only good looking bikes on this list are the Triumphs and the BMW.
@bartmotorcycle3 жыл бұрын
I can respect that opinion.
@NajidHajee3 жыл бұрын
Time for your meds old man
@bartmotorcycle3 жыл бұрын
@@NajidHajee 😂
@andrewmagosky71812 жыл бұрын
A Yamaha XS 650 with spoked wheels. They look so good!
@philzellmer60733 жыл бұрын
Norton 850 Commando...hands down.......
@edwardmurdoch50702 жыл бұрын
I love the DKW 200. It has a simple but elegant design.
@RossRebbeck Жыл бұрын
I'd have to give a shout out for the Phelon & Moore Panther - particularly the P&M Panther 120, a 650cc single/sloper engine that is begging for a sidecar to be hung off it. I rode one in the mid-Sixties and I just loved that big cat. It only did 77 mph, just what the manual said, and it did that all the day long. It was a sweet cat and I wish I still had it.
@gtsteele62192 жыл бұрын
Truly a crime that you neglected the 1982-1983 Suzuki GS1100E.