The 10 most beautiful motorcycles of all time

[@johncasteel1780]

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".

[@senatorjosephmccarthy2720]

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.

[@pdm2201]

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.

[@nickohare7187]

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

[@pdm2201]

@@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.

[@69FOSTER]

@@nickohare7187 That red Norton is gorgeous!

[@a5-30-31cts]

@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.

[@johnh6524]

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)

[@MichaelWilliams-jc2ui]

10 just isn’t enough! The most beautiful looking bike I think is the Vincent, that engine is just to die for!!!

[@terryhuggett3799]

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

[@billruzinsky6237]

I remember as a young teenager having heart flutters over the 70's Norton Commando. Even the name adds to the mystic.

[@GreenIslandWoodworks]

"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

[@prof.2248]

1974 MV Agusta 750S ,Honda NR750, Norton Commando 961CR, Triumph Truxton RS final edition, 1938 Triumph Speed Twin,1969 Honda CB750, Kawasaki Z1, Bimota Furano,1950s Norton Manx,Ducati 750 Sport (‘72/73)

[@peterhoulis1184]

Kawasaki z1 900 looks fantastic and came out with an awesome paint job and great styling

[@kkiwi54]

Definitely the most beautiful bike of its day - I can't believe he left it off this list :/

[@d.Cog420]

it gets my vote too

[@Brutaga]

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 💙

[@babyfacenc]

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.

[@jimkraft9445]

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.

[@needparalegal]

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.

[@geraldscott4302]

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.

[@monsieurcommissaire1628]

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.

[@tonycollinsworth7393]

His idea beauty is not mine lot better looking motorcycles than what he picked

[@paulblouin6955]

I used to see a '74 or so MV Agusta 750 regularly in the day. The castings were just unbelievable. Such beautiful workmanship.

[@worldwyn]

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.

[@stevek8829]

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. 😩

[@RosalinaPickstone]

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.

[@gabrieloneill968]

The Moto Guzzi California. From any angle, a work of art.

[@martinscott-reed5379]

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

[@christophermackey2570]

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.

[@markrowley1223]

Triumph Trident T160V and the Moto Guzzi Le Mans Mk1. Both with looks to die for.

[@jkemmery]

Great list. I would have included the Vincent Black Shadow, the Brough Superior and the Harley FLH

[@chrislatchem1854]

2nd the Vincent , also like the Norton Atlas

[@Elgarman]

A Hardly Ableson on this list? I don't think so!!!

[@jkemmery]

@@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.

[@Elgarman]

@@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.

[@jkemmery]

@@Elgarman See, I think the XR 750 is incredibly ugly. The FLH is the classic cruiser silhouette.

[@larry4789]

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.

[@larry4789]

Aprilia RS250 too

[@phillipmitchell5879]

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...

[@kimhorton6109]

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.

[@phillipmitchell5879]

@@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.

[@flyhouseoftruth470]

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

[@russelljackman1413]

The 1971 Bultaco Pursang MkIV 250cc was a beautiful bike!

[@doctordapp]

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.

[@davidwarren9204]

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 :)

[@Shamshiadadd]

...and perhaps the beautiful Laverda RGB 1000....

[@a5-30-31cts]

@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.

[@peggygeren4169]

All of the 1970s Ducatis look great to me. I'd love to have a 350 Scrambler.

[@kzoo4053]

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.

[@monsieurcommissaire1628]

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

[@stevek8829]

MV Agusta looked especially good with G Agostini winning everything on them.

[@adamwait1860]

I disagree, no MV Agusta belongs on this list. The best MV Agusta is Ok looking at best.

[@joebutlersnr7017]

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.

[@lukeiamyourfather3511]

As a Ducati 916 owner,good to see this iconic bike included. Many would say the best of the best.I would not disagree.

[@1jostaclo]

Mid-1980s Honda VF1100S Sabre with the Hondaline Sport Fairing would be worthy of consideration. I had one for 17 years and 160k mi.

[@michaeltelemachus5112]

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.

[@brianglover7358]

Honda 1967 305 scrambler Ya gotta love it.

[@vincecarnevale4406]

The Yamaha RD 400 was an eye catcher.

[@snakeplissken5480]

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

[@Elgarman]

You mean T160. I agree.

[@gregorylunsford3991]

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.

[@colinpate3059]

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.

[@theoldman8877]

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.

[@johncolchester]

Mid 70s Sportsters should have made the list but I would put the 1978 XLCR way near the top personally

[@guypehaim1080]

A fully equipped Harley Davidson Electra glide is one I think should have been on your list.

[@markperry222]

What! No Kawasaki Z1?

[@JamesCouch777]

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 👍

[@bartmotorcycle]

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!

[@JamesCouch777]

@@bartmotorcycle keep up the good work 👍

[@pdm2201]

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.

[@philsmith2346]

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.

[@wmden1]

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.

[@winbobmarks8236]

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!!!

[@rogerthat10-47]

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.

[@TimWright623]

I can't believe no one mentioned the Britten V1000. A true work of technical and artistic beauty.

[@babyfacenc]

Think he was shooting for production bikes that anyone could buy.

[@gregorydunn4283]

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

[@hardwaylearner]

MV Agusta Superveloce and Ducati 916 are the Queen and King of moto beauty

[@mattcuddy814]

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.)

[@bandaddie]

I agree though I preferred the CB450.

[@monsieurcommissaire1628]

I agree as well. A very fine looking motorcycle. That era's Hondas had great styling. The CB500/4 was lovely too.

[@alainbrisebois8334]

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...

[@michaelb.42112]

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.

[@69FOSTER]

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.

[@concernedcitizen5826]

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!

[@assessor1276]

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.

[@DonLeist]

The Triumph Bonneville of the 1960's and seventies was pretty sharp looking and a pretty good motorcycle to boot!

[@threepot]

Surprised you didn't include the Vincent Black Shadow? The first superbike?

[@bartmotorcycle]

It's up there for sure

[@jamesvale992]

1972 h2 750 kawi bar none the best looking for me and the exhaust note chilling !!

[@notwocdivad]

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-fn7mf]

My favourite too

[@fredvanderlinden8908]

Great choice. However one Japanese bike deserves to be on this list. Kawasaki 500 2 stroke from the seventies.

[@daytona955joop]

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.

[@Toast-ej2lr]

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.

[@fearsomename4517]

I would include the '36 Harley Knucklehead, and the '50 Triumph Thunderbird. Good list though.

[@iancrossley6637]

Norton should have a spot. The pipes alone.

[@pdm2201]

Yes. Reverse cone mufflers! The Norton timing chain cover looks good too. So do the polished stainless steel fenders.

[@jasonminton9681]

From numbers 6 to 1 I’m absolutely right with you but to completely omit the Vincent black shadow is unforgivable. Lol

[@collyernicholasjohn]

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.

[@TheKevphil]

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!

[@stephencallil6512]

The Kawasaki Z1 and the Honda CBX Should be on the list.

[@davkarshobby2468]

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.

[@justmike2944]

My bro got a V MAX from the early 90s and i think its the most beautiful bike I've seen .

[@percytom9252]

Them hard-tail beemers and the Superglide Shovelheads [+the sound!] fill my dreams.

[@lewjames6688]

Original Yamaha RD400. Best looking Japanese street bike ever.

[@TheNobbynoonar]

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.

[@MaanasMahesh]

I would have included: The Yamaha RD350, Kawasaki Z1 and the Suzuki GT750.

[@lawrieyoutube4375]

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.

[@Xynudu]

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

[@lrowlands53]

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.

[@TheAdventuresOfDougan]

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.

[@bartmotorcycle]

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

[@mattgoodmangoodmanlawnmowi2454]

Norton Dominator 99 SS? And the reason 60s US Nortons leaked from their primary cover was because the US distributor, Berliner, specifically ordered them with stamped primary covers, unlike the British equivalents which came with forged primary chain covers. Their motivation was cost reduction/increased profits.

[@wschultz245159]

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.

[@johnathanross2122]

Should have titled this video 10 most beautiful European bikes of all time with one Japanese bike thrown in.

[@Panotaker]

The bike in the background at 11:05 is better looking than all those bikes put together.

[@1BulldogBob]

1976 BMW R90S in Red. 1973 Yamaha TX650.

[@enriquesouffle9926]

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.

[@paulscofield8506]

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)

[@josephliptak]

I live the 1969 Kawasaki H1-500, 1972 Kawasaki H2-750, 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900, 1969 Honda CB750, Norton 750 Commando, Norton 850 Atlas, 1936 Harley Knucklehead, 1948 Harley Panhead, 1967 Harley Shovelhead, Yamaha XS650, 1998 Suzuki GSXR-750, Triumph Bonniville, BSA Rocket 650, 1982 Honda CBF 1100, 1981 Suzuki GS1100, 1972 Honda 350-Four, 1971 Honda CB350, 1972 Honda CB450, 1972 Suzuki 750 Water Buffalo, Suzuki T500, 1966 Harley XLCH Sportster, just to name a few.

[@martinmcgimpsey9750]

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!

[@bartmotorcycle]

Yeah that must have been a 67 bonneville. That's one of my favorite colors

[@martinmcgimpsey9750]

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!

[@georgeveneziano2754]

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

[@olddube]

The Bultaco Metralla Mark 2 belongs on this list.

[@markphillips8824]

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.

[@axnax1]

I think there should've been mentions for -. The Triumph Hurricane x75 - beauty. Benelli 750 sei - beauty. BSA Goldstar - beauty. Kawasaki z900 - beauty.

[@philzellmer6073]

Norton 850 Commando...hands down.......

[@michaelmcclain5091]

How did you omit the Vincent, yet include several very stodgy modern machines!

[@gtsteele6219]

Truly a crime that you neglected the 1982-1983 Suzuki GS1100E.

[@MichaelandCathy1999]

Sorry, but my first 2 picks would be 1) 1972 Kawasaki 350 Triple in Red ( my first bike ) 2) 1976 Yamaha RD 400c ( “c” for Canadian edition), which I refer to as my “Monster Killer” Also drove a 1983 Honda CB 900F SuperSport …. Great tour bike with a 4 gallon tank.

[@rickfilho3686]

And I at that time ,my ride was a Honda CB 1000 custom ,1982.

[@paddyglenny]

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.

[@senatorjosephmccarthy2720]

#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.

[@vincentbarkley9121]

What was the very first bike shown in the video, the red, full dress one? Gorgeous bike. MIssing: Moto Guzzi Le Mans.

[@shanehnorman]

The Thruxton was expensive, certainly, but not a luxury model. It was pretty hardcore, being named after Thruxton racing circuit, where an uprated Velocette Venom won its class in the 1964 500-mile endurance race.

[@nigelthomas8315]

You forgot the Ducati 750ss? Wtf (Ducati desmo 250 was cool) the Kawasaki z900 was amazing looking bike when it came out and the cb750 honda I agree that Norton commando is beautiful shame no customs as I had a Triton in 1976 that was metallic red chrome frame and polished alloy that I would stare at for hours ❤️

[@rogerthat10-47]

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.

[@aceroadholder2185]

I had a 65 M120 and it is one of the most graceful motorcycles made.

[@rogerthat10-47]

@@aceroadholder2185 Like I said, this list could go on forever, it would be even better without the Vespa.

[@brainfleming8756]

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.

[@3thomasdm]

of all the bikes on your list the BMW R32 is the most beautiful.

[@joannedickie7863]

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.

[@robertbagley9199]

Where's the Z1

[@heinervogt4484]

Yes , I thought this bike would claim the first place ..., cause , no doubt about it : It is the most beautiful motorbike ...timeless beautiful !

[@gitaneVYS491R]

For me, top 3 in chronological order: Gold Star clubmans, Z1, 916. And, I'd have a series 3 Lambretta above any Vespa.

[@bikesandwrenches]

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.

[@threepot]

My father had a velo 500 clubman back in 59. He took it up to 116mph.

[@stephenmcfarland5683]

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]

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...

[@bushmanPMRR]

"Opinions are like arseholes: everybody's got one and they all stink!" 😉😂 For me, it must be the Triumph Speed Triple from 1997 to 2001 The overall lines of the bike, the twin headlights, the styling of the frame tubing, the single sided rear arm and the air scoops of the bodywork. Its one of those bikes that look like its doing 100 mph even when parked. I've owned mine for over eight years, longer than any other bike I've had and love it to bits and its also been the most reliable too!

[@larryloef9056]

My 2001 Honda valkyrie gets people drooling over it's looks EVERY time she's out !