Vintage motorcycle shopping can be a tiresome process. This is because there are lots of classic makes and models built over the years, making it rather difficult for first-time buyers as well as loyal fans to locate an example that suits them. Luckily this guide will make it simpler.
This article will discuss some important aspects that a buyer must keep in mind while searching for a vintage motorcycle. It will also examine relevant factors that account for the popularity of vintage motorcycles and outline their market scope. Read on to learn more.
Table of Contents
Overview of the vintage motorcycle market
Advantages of vintage motorcycles
Factors to consider when buying a vintage motorcycle
Conclusion
Overview of the vintage motorcycle market
Interestingly, vintage motorcycles are now trending at a time when everything else is high-tech. Proficient Market Insights estimates the vintage motorcycle market to be worth around USD 309.6 million in 2024 and predicts it to reach USD 393.21 million by 2031 at a compound annual growth rate of 3.5%.
The vintage motorcycle market has been mainly driven by a huge demand for those kinds of motorcycles. Driving demand for the vintage motorbike is the competitive price ranges and value associated with the motorcycles. Their competitive price points and the sentimental value attached to them make them desirable.
Vintage motorcycles are also an ideal motorcycle choice for budget buyers, which is an attractive alternative due to their relatively low price compared to modern counterparts. Along with their affordability, the cost of maintenance and repairs for vintage motorcycles is also lower.
Europe boasts the largest market share in the vintage motorcycle segment, owing to its long history of motorcycle production with models like BMW and Ducati. The Asian market follows with Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Honda motorbikes.
Advantages of vintage motorcycles
1. Timeless appearance
Today, vintage motorcycles are cherished by collectors, and they can command a good price in the market because of their attractiveness. They feature chrome details, beautiful shapes, and revolutionary designs that are not present in the new motorcycles.
Such elements provide a sense of nostalgia for memories of simple or special times in people’s lives.
2. Simpler designs
Another reason is that vintage motorcycles have less complex designs and features than modern bikes, often fitted with computerized systems and other digital high-tech features. Older models testify to the times when there was a close and personal connection between the rider and the motorcycle.
Back in those early years, it was quite straightforward for the rider to tell that something was not right with their bike. Their motorbikes did not have touchscreen displays that showed error messages or sounds that beeped to alert the user.
That clarity was advantageous in that it made the peripherals easier to repair and maintain. In addition, no computer-based guidance or special tools were required to perform the repair and maintenance procedure.
3. Durability and reliability
Vintage bikes are highly durable, and these motorbikes can be traced for generations to come.
These motorbikes were built with longevity in mind, ensuring they successfully withstand the test of time.
While most items built today are made with plastic and can be disposed of within a few years of breakage, vintage bikes are handmade and made with materials such as steel, aluminum, and titanium, which are more resilient to breakage.
4. Self-expression
Vintage motorcycles enable their owners to make a statement. Riders are able to make alterations to their motorbikes making them objects that reflect their own taste.
That said, customized bikes have a history behind every graffiti, paint job, or wheel design. This is why bikers love and get excited when they personally restore an ancient bike and revamp it in a new way.
Furthermore, the need for self-expression has led to the emergence of motorcycle communities and bike clubs where individuals can participate in spaces where they feel welcomed.
5. Investment value
Lastly, people are interested in vintage motorcycles because they see them as investment opportunities. Certain models appreciate over time, while others may keep losing their value.
Models like the Kawasaki Ninja, Suzuki Katana, Honda GB500, and the Harley Davidson Shovelhead can hold their value for a longer period.
Note also that there are models that are collectables and highly sought after, like the Brough Superior. Those that are well maintained and have OEM parts (not modified) can make a good investment for buyers.
Factors to consider when buying a vintage motorcycle
1. Engine displacement
While buying a classic motorcycle, one may select one depending on the engine displacement of the bike. The engine displacement is the capacity of the engine of the motorcycle. The motorbikes are categorized as 125cc and below, 126cc-250cc, and 251cc-500cc.
Models below 125cc are best for town riding and often have exceptional fuel economy. They are also the cheapest classic motorcycles. A few good examples of these bikes include the Honda CB125, Yamaha YL1 Twinjet 100, and the Suzuki A100.
The displacement from 126cc up to 250cc includes models such as the Honda CB200, Kawasaki Samurai, and the Yamaha DT175. These classic motorcycles can find a balance between performance and not being too thirsty.
Customers who are hungry for speed, power, and long-range capability can prioritize the 251cc-500cc motorcycle category. Models here include the Royal Enfield Bullet 350, Norton Dominator 500, BMW R Nine T, and Triumph Tiger Cub 100. These bikes are not only more powerful than their smaller counterparts but also provide comfort to riders.
2. Application
The intended use is a factor buyers shopping vintage motorcycles should consider. Motorcycles can be categorized based on their purpose: cruisers, touring motorcycles, off-road motorcycles, and scooters.
Cruiser motorcycles are perfect for those who enjoy leisurely rides around the city or weekend getaways while touring motorcycles cater to riders looking for comfort on long journeys. Key features that distinguish them include lower seat heights, forward footpegs, and relaxed riding positions in cruisers, compared to the larger fuel tanks, windshields, and more comfortable seating found in touring models.
Off-road motorcycles, commonly known as dirt bikes, are designed for enthusiasts who love off-roading and motocross. They typically boast a sturdy build, high ground clearance, and a robust suspension system to handle shocks and impacts.
The scooter is a lightweight motorcycle that comes with a step-through frame, ideal for short trips in urban areas and navigating busy streets. With these options in mind, buyers can easily identify the vintage motorcycle that best suits their preferences.
3. History of the motorcycle
Before making that final purchase decision, a buyer must understand the history of the motorcycle, its brand, and its make. This makes sense from an investment point of view since some motorcycles have quite a big story behind them, which will impact the amount of money the end buyer is willing to put down.
As an illustration, motorcycles that have an innovative first concept or are the first in the line are assumed to be expensive. A good case in point is the 1948 Harley Davidson FL Hydra Glide, which offered a new hydraulic fork that gave riders a different cushion, speed, and comfort.
Additionally, motorcycles featured in pop culture and Hollywood scenes appear to increase their resale value without any limit. For example, if a famous person is spotted on a certain model, the chances are that the model will be worth a bit more on the market, making the sale of the motorcycle quite profitable in the future.
4. Verify the original parts
The original parts have a lot of significance since the value of the classic motorcycle is enhanced. While purchasing the bike, it is vital to consider if any original serial numbers correspond or if the original equipment corresponds.
Certain modifications and restorations may enhance some features, but bike owners sometimes overdo the modifications, destroying the bike’s classic look. So, the main concerns of the buyers need to be pertinent to the documentation and service records confirming the originality or any other paperwork that can help trace the bike’s maintenance and history.
5. Consider maintenance costs
Vintage bikes require more care and attention when compared to modern bikes. This is why the buyers have to be ready for the time and expense that comes with the maintenance of the bike.
People with sound engine skills can make a lot of savings on repairs by carrying out the repairs on their own, but those without skills will have to pay different mechanics which oftentimes accumulate to great amounts.
As much as a vintage motorcycle is something that an individual should like owning, there are a lot of practicalities to be considered. Hence people wanting such a bike either to their collection or to join some classic motorcycle club should consider how able or willing they are to maintain their investment.
Conclusion
This guide has discussed the things riders should consider before buying a classic example. Things they should look at include the history of the motorcycle, the type, and the maintenance costs. By considering these top tips, buyers are assured of finding the perfect make and model for their needs. Find a wide range of vintage motorcycles at wholesale prices from Alibaba.com.
