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What are the top 5 best classic motorbikes?

Many manufacturers still offer new bikes with classic lines and styling that harken back to the good old days of two-wheeled freedom. These are five of those models that retain their heritage in name and style.

Buying a Bike1 min read

Classic Lines

A modern or retro classic is a new model bike that retains the styling of motorcycles from decades gone by. These bikes have a special place in the hearts of bikers who love the look of older bikes but seek the modern conveniences of new late-model machines.

Related: How do I perform a pre-purchase inspection on a used motorcycle in South Africa?

These retro-modern classics have electronic fuel injection, ABS, cruise control, and newer construction materials, making them faster and safer than their namesakes. Below, we list our five favourite classic-look bikes currently for sale in South Africa.

Are there any motorcycle clubs or communities in South Africa?

2024 Triumph Bonneville T100
2024 Triumph Bonneville T100

Triumph Bonneville

Taking its name from the famous salt flats that host land speed records, The Bonnie is the quintessential retro classic machine that everyone thinks about when talking about modern classic bikes.


2024 Yamaha XSR900 GP
2024 Yamaha XSR900 GP

Yamaha XSR 900

Based on the Grand Prix-winning bike, the new XSR retains the look and feel of the winner but has all the new mod cons that make riding so much more enjoyable today.


2023 BMW R18 Transcontinental
2023 BMW R18 Transcontinental

BMW R18

The German cruiser is the answer to the American cruiser. It has a big displacement, plenty of torque, and a riding position suitable for Route 66.


2024 Royal Enfield Continental GT
2024 Royal Enfield Continental GT

Royal Enfield Continental GT

Royal Enfield has become a household name in India. Although the Enfield may have British heritage, it is the bike of choice for hundreds of thousands of people around the world.


2023 Suzuki Katana
2023 Suzuki Katana

Suzuki Katana

The legendary Suzuki Katana nameplate was revived in 2022 with a brand-new machine based on the S1000 Streetfighter. Its looks may not be to everyone's liking, but everyone knows the name.


Author - Lawrence Minnie

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more

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