9 Famous Bikes That Inspired Us
Do you remember the very first motorcycle that blew you away? The bike that demonstrated insane power, or went faster than you thought possible. Or the ride that just looked so cool while being operated by our favorite racers or celebrity bikers. Yep, we still get tingles remembering those epic motorcycles too, which is why we’re taking a look back at some of the best bikes that changed the world of motorcycles and motivated so many to join the lifestyle. Collected by Cycle Trader, here are nine famous bikes that inspired us to ride.
1. Brough Superior SS100
Considered the Rolls-Royce of motorcycles—and the very first superbike—Brough Superior SS100 emerged in the British market between 1924 and 1940. With a custom design and build by racer/manufacturer George Brough, these bikes boasted speeds of 100 miles per hour, which was an exception for the time.
2. Indian Chief
Indian Chief boasted power and speed when it was first unleashed in the American market. As a top-selling bike for the company, Chief was a crowd-pleaser and emblem for years, known for easy handling, smooth riding, and high speeds. It’s earned collector status since original production stopped in 1953. Since then the Chief has undergone a modern revival and it’s immediately recognizable when roaring down the street.
3. Vincent Black Shadow
By the middle of the 20th century, Vincent Black Shadow was claiming its bike was the fastest motorcycle the world had ever seen in the commercial market, reaching a top speed of 125 miles per hour. Only 1,774 of these British bikes were made from 1947 to 1955, and in recent years one was auctioned off for nearly $1 million.
4. Harley-Davidson Sportster
Ever since its introduction in 1957, the Sportster has been an icon for Harley. More than half a century later it’s still in production as a symbol for the company and status for the brand’s riders. While over the years the engine has changed, the fanbase for this stylish and powerful American bike has remained.
5. Triumph Bonneville
When British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph introduced Bonneville in 1959, it was an instant classic and the company defined its legacy. “Bonnie” gets its name from Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats where the bike broke motorcycle speed records at nearly 115 miles per hour. Its popularity continued in the preceding decades with a modish design helping to earn its legendary status.
6. Norton Manx
For years this British racing bike dominated the Grand Prix and Isle of Man TT until its last model produced during the 1960s. Part of the Manx legacy is due to its design: a featherbed frame for improved handling, speed, and performance. Reliability, affordability, and the bike’s ability to help racers add to their trophy collection gained its popular reputation throughout the world.
7. Honda CB750
Known as the original Universal Japanese Motorcycle, Honda’s CB750 evolved with a sport bike layout and a reputation as a superbike with its introduction in the 1960s. Bringing with it entire generations of new riders for its power, speed, and efficiency, this bike brought the company to the world stage and made Honda a household name.
8. BMW R80 G/S
The multisport bike was designed to fit off road and on the street, and with its roll out in the 1980s, BMW had created the first ever adventure bike. Its durability and ability to manage terrain has inspired the market’s dual-sport bikes and riders to explore uncharted territory with motorcycles.
9. Ducati 999
Italian manufacturer Ducati has produced a number of world-class bikes known for their high speeds and maneuverability in motorcycle racing. The 999 was introduced in the early 2000s with complaints about its design, but the bike quickly hushed critics with its performance in World Superbike. With its 999S and 999R versions, the bike is able to reach a top speed of 170 miles per hour.
From superbikes to collector motorcycles, the performance and design of these iconic rides have left an epic biking legacy of inspiring thousands of riders to conquer the open road. They are classics that have become major brands and have given us all a sense of pride. Looking for your own famous bike? Check out all the new and used motorcycles on CycleTrader.com!
Ryan Miller
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