Retro motorcycles or modern classics are modern motorbikes that emulate the design lines of a bygone era – mostly, of the 50s, 60s and 70s.
There is an important distinction to be made between modern classic and neo-retro motorcycles.
Modern Classic Motorcycles
Modern classic motorcycles closely echo the design of bikes from the past. Usually, they can trace their lineage to a model from a manufacturer’s back catalogue. Good examples of this are Triumph’s Thruxton RS or Royal Enfield’s 650 twins
Neo-retro Motorbikes
Neo-retro bikes, on the other hand, are contemporary machines with design elements borrowed from the past, such as a single round headlight or a half-fairing. Good examples of this are Honda’s CB1000R or MV Agusta’s Superveloce 800 Serie Oro
Nonetheless, both sub-genres afford the advantages of classical styling or aspects of such, with modern performance and technology. And pertinently, without the complications of classic/vintage motorcycle ownership.
The development of the retro motorcycle segment has undoubtedly been fueled by the rise of new-wave custom bike builders and 21st-century café racer culture.
Once dubbed a fad, most major manufacturers now have a range of retro motorcycle models. The appetite for these bikes shows no sign of abating.
As the performance of these bikes moves towards parity with contemporary-styled bikes, there are likely to be many more riders jumping off sports bikes and onto retros.
Retro Motorcycle Manufacturers
And here on Renchlist, you’ll find a collection of articles, images, videos and galleries, uncovering neo-retro and modern classic motorcycles from all the major manufacturers: Triumph, Kawasaki, BMW Motorrad, Indian Motorcycle, Honda, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Royal Enfield, Husqvarna Motorcycles, Norton Motorcycles, Suzuki, Yamaha, Moto Guzzi, Moto Morini and more.
