▲ 2019 Triumph Speed Twin and 2019 Kawasaki Z900RS. Modern re-imaginings on an old theme. These retros are not not "true" classics, but both will be in a few decades. Meanwhile, they're simply fantastic bikes that will take you pretty much anywhere you want to go as long as there's tarmac beneath the tyres.
Should I buy retro or classic, huh? Well the simple answer to this question is, it depends primarily on how you plan to use your motorcycle. Daily? Weekly? Twice a year? Or maybe your interest is more left field and/or esoteric. Either way, you need to clearly define your goals. So here are a few pointers that might be helpful.
Many of us—if not most of us—who are riding classic bikes these days started out when these classics weren't classics at all. They were brand new bikes back then. Mainstream motorcycles. Fresh from the box. And they certainly weren't retro.
We rode the bikes, and they got older, and we got older too. Then one day we realised that the bikes had become classics (in the broadest and most generous sense of the word, anyway). Or maybe we rode those bikes and upgraded every so often and then suddenly noticed that things had changed.
These feelings and realisations usually happen around aged 40. At that point, the latent/dormant nostalgia bug kicks in, and most of us begin re-evaluating our lives and the story so far, and we think about reacquiring the motorcycles of their youth, for "old time's sake".
The nostalgia factor
So riders born in the 1940s would have been teenagers in the 1950s to 1960s. Consequently, unless they were fairly well paid whilst working at the gasworks or digging ditches or running errands in an office, they might have been riding around in their free time on anything from a BSA Bantam to a Triumph Tiger Cub to an Ariel Arrow to pretty much any Villiers two-stroke. There was a considerable choice.
Or if they had a little more money in their pocket, they might have been lucky enough to acquire a 350cc or 500cc British single or twin (AJS, BSA Matchless, Norton, Royal Enfield, Triumph, etc). Or maybe their dad owned a Vincent Rapide or a Black Shadow or an Ariel Square Four and let them ride it occasionally (possible, but not likely).
Regardless, these would have been the bikes of their youth, and they eventually became the classics of their later years.
Alternately, riders born in the late 1950s to late 1960s would have grown up in the 1970s and 1980s with Japanese motorcycles, notably Honda and Yamaha, but Suzuki and Kawasaki too. So their idea of a classic motorcycle would be very different. And naturally, at the time of writing this article (November 2019) there are still one or two hardy souls riding around whose idea of a "true, true classic" are bikes built in the 1940s and 1950s. But that's a dying breed. Literarily.
Retro bikes, meanwhile, are a relatively new diversion and date back no more than maybe 20 years or so—although at the outset they weren't so self-consciously retro. The retro scene, such as it is today, took some developing and is an ongoing and relatively new phenomenon.
▲ 2019 Kawasaki W800, 2019 Ducati Icon, and 2008 Triumph Thruxton. Some think of these motorcycle as retrograde designs. Some call 'em classic. We say just ride the hell out of them. But first make up your mind how you plan to use them. There are two worlds here, similar but different.
Retro or classic?
So if you're still asking "should I buy retro or classic?"the question implies that you're probably younger rather than older. Older bikers, after all, would find it easier to make that judgement simply through greater experience and would be less likely to ask the question. Therefore, there's little advice we can offer here.
However, if you're a younger rider and are fairly new to the scene, and if you like the style of classic bikes and plan to actually ride anywhere of any distance, you're advised to buy a modern retro bike first.
There's a huge range to choose from which includes motorcycles such as:
Triumph Bonneville, Thruxton (image above), Bobber & Speed Twin
Royal Enfield Bullet, Interceptor & Continental
Kawasaki W800 & W650
Ducati Scrambler
Yamaha XSR900
Kawasaki Z900RS
▲ 2019 Honda CB1000R. You might call it macho, but you wouldn't call it exactly retro. Although some folk would. Nevertheless, it's got a certain retro style—assuming, that is, you live in a parallel universe where a different path led to a different future. Sound a bit Star Trekkish? Well just buy what you like. It's the only route to motorcycle satisfaction.
And there are many others to settle on, but note that some of them are actually more "stylised retros" and bear little relationship to anything built in the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, or 1990s. We're talking about, say, the Honda CB1000R or the BMW R nineT. These motorcycles are often loosely or lazily referred to as retros, but both are perhaps better described as futurist bikes. Or new age retros. Or simply as retro-ish inasmuch as they carry some retro design cues or hints, but they take that design in a different direction and stray from the path of classic conservatism. Alternately, you can think of them as "what if?" retros. Currently, there's no clearly defined category or pigeon hole for these bikes.
Pros and cons of classics & retro bikes
The advantage of owning a "true" classic bike is that if you're buying a motorcycle that you used to own and ride in your youth, you're naturally reacquainting yourself with your past and scratching that nostalgia itch, etc (and when it does start itching, it can take the rest of your life to stop). But that can be hugely rewarding and satisfying, and it can help make you feel young again.
You're also buying a motorcycle with some history beyond your personal history, if that's important to you—and that history could become a good investment if you're shrewd and if you buy wisely. And the more faithful these classic bikes are to that history, the greater their intrinsic value. Might take a while for that fidelity to become marketable. But it will get there. At least, it always has so far.
Additionally, classic bikes tend to hold their value and, occasionally, they increase in value too in both perceived terms and real terms as the years roll by. But note that this isn't always/exactly the case.
For instance, a £4,000 classic bike might still be worth £4,000 in, say, five years. However, in real terms that original £4,000 might actually be worth just £3,800. These aren't hard numbers, note. But you get the principle. Also, you might buy a classic bike when the market for that particular model is high, only to watch the demand fall a few years later. That happens—although generally prices recover and even rise again. But there are always fluctuations.
On the downside, classic bikes are certainly more labour intensive, especially if you plan to use them regularly, or tour; in which case you're going to have to get the right tools, a workshop manual of some kind, find some workshop space, and spend more than a couple of weekends every year cursing and skinning knuckles and throwing tools around. And there are generally oil leaks to contend with, or just live with.
Sounds dire, but it doesn't have to be that bad. Or that expensive. You just have to make adjustments, and the pay-off is the aforementioned satisfaction plus full admission to the classic bike club of your choice (once you pay your subscription, that is). And the classic bike scene is a great scene and will give you like-minded company throughout the year.
As for retro bikes, these give you classic bike style (albeit a little synthetic in most instances), and the bikes will lose value year on year—until, that is, these motorcycles become classic retros in their own right. But you might have to wait 20 or 30 years before that happens.
The obvious advantages with modern retros is that the technology is far in advance of anything built up to, say, the 1990s. Or the noughties. Current models boast anything from ABS (anti-lock braking systems), to fuel injection, to traction control, to ride-by-wire throttles, to extra high output alternators, to slip-assist clutches, to engine counter-balancers, to onboard connectivity, to built-in security systems. And naturally, all have electric starters.
Additionally, modern retros are smoother, generally oil leak free, offer dozens or hundreds of accessories, can supply more than enough current for heated gloves and jackets, have good spares back up, better lighting—and are still generally "acceptable" in classic bike communities.
Genuine classics
If you want to tour far and wide, a retro won't necessarily take you anywhere that a "genuine" classic bike won't, but the retro will usually do it more conveniently, and possibly faster. However, you'll probably pay a premium for all this, and the bike will devalue until that aforementioned classic tipping point is reached.
Here at Sump, if we were starting out again as youngsters, we'd probably either buy everyday mainstream bikes, or possibly retros. But we probably wouldn't by "true classics". Not at first anyway. However, the older we get, the further back we look, and there are plenty of motorcycles built long before we were born that we'd love to own. And then again, there are plenty of retros out there that are currently catching our eye.
Check Sump's Classic Bikes For Sale page.
Check Sump's Classic Bike Guides page.
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Are you an avid motorcyclist who is curious about the differences between classic and vintage motorcycles? It can be difficult to pinpoint the distinctions between the two and you may be surprised to learn that there can be a wide range of differences depending on the era and brand. Read on to explore the subtle and not-so-subtle differences between classic and vintage motorcycles so that you can ride with confidence.
A classic motorcycle is generally defined as one that was manufactured between the 1930s and the early 1980s. Usually, these motorbikes have been modified and can be customized in order to keep them looking and running as close to their original condition as possible. Classic motorcycles tend to use parts that are no longer in production, making them much harder to maintain than modern motorcycles. Additionally, classic motorcyclists often take part in classic motorcycle rallies in order to show off their motorbikes and discuss the history of the classic motorcycle industry.
A vintage motorcycle is generally defined as one that was manufactured before 1930. These motorbikes have been around for a long time and are often highly sought after for their unique designs and performance. Vintage motorcyclists usually have a deep passion for their motorbikes and often invest a lot of time and money into restoring them to their original condition. Vintage motorcycles tend to have more sentimental value than classic motorcycles, as they are often associated with a particular era or style.
The main difference between classic and vintage motorcycles is the age of the motorbike. Vintage motorcycles are considered to be more valuable as they are much older than classic motorbikes, making them harder to find and more expensive. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the type of riding experience you’re looking for.
When it comes to age, classic motorcycles are generally considered to be those manufactured between the 1930s and the early 1980s. Vintage motorcycles, on the other hand, are those manufactured before 1930. This is a key difference between the two, as vintage motorcycles tend to be much more sought after for their unique designs and performance. Additionally, vintage motorcycles are often associated with a particular era or style, making them even more popular and valuable.
The other difference between classic and vintage motorcycles is the parts and technology used to build them. Both classic and vintage motorbikes however tend to use parts that are no longer in production, making them much harder to maintain and customize than modern motorcycles.
At the end of the day, the right choice between classic and vintage motorcycles is up to you. Whether you’re looking for a motorbike to take to vintage rallies or something to ride on the weekends, do your research and find the perfect ride for you!
Finally, there is the design of each motorcycle. Vintage motorcycles often feature unique and intricate designs, while classic motorcycles typically have more simplistic designs. This is one of the main factors that often makes vintage motorcycles more valuable than classic models.
Regardless of which type of motorcycle you choose, it’s important to know the availability of parts. Classic motorcycles and vintage motorcycles may be harder to find parts for, especially if the parts are no longer in production and they also tend to be more expensive.
Classic and vintage motorcycles have their differences. The main distinction is the age and design of the motorcycle, but parts availability and technology used to build the motorbike are also key factors. Ultimately, the right choice for you comes down to your personal preference and the type of riding experience you are looking for.
Classic motorcycles are typically those manufactured between the 1930s and the early 1980s. These motorbikes often have more simplistic designs and are seen as the precursor to the modern motorcycle. They are also easier to maintain and customize than vintage motorcycles, making them a great option for those who want to customize their ride.
Vintage motorcycles are traditionally those manufactured before 1930. These motorbikes are often seen as more valuable due to their unique designs and iconic aesthetic. They may be harder to maintain and customize, but they are a popular choice for vintage rallies and for those who appreciate the classic look. And if you are interested in a more thorough history of motorcycles, check out our blog post on how it all began.
Overall, there are certain factors that you should consider when choosing between classic and vintage motorcycles. From age and design to performance and parts availability, you should be aware of the differences and choose the best option for you. Whether it’s a classic or vintage motorbike, make sure to take the time to do your research and find the perfect ride for you.
At the end of the day, the difference between classic and vintage motorcycles is largely a matter of opinion and personal preference. As long as you’re passionate about the motorbike you’re riding, you’re sure to have a great time!
How do the prices of classic and vintage motorcycles compare?
The prices of classic and vintage motorcycles vary greatly depending on the make, model and condition of the bike. Generally speaking, vintage motorcycles tend to be the more expensive option due to the rarity and age of some of the parts. On the other hand, classic motorcycles might be more affordable since they are more readily available. If you're looking to purchase one of either, it's a good idea to do some research on the bike you're interested in and compare prices to get the best deal.
What are the typical characteristics of classic and vintage motorcycles?
Classic and vintage motorcycles have several distinct characteristics that make them unique. Generally, classic and vintage motorcycles are those produced before the mid-1970s, though the exact cut-off date can vary depending on the make and model. Classic and vintage motorcycles tend to have a more traditional look, with features such as round headlights, flat fenders, large fuel tanks, and traditional handlebars. Many classic and vintage motorcycles also have classic features such as kick-starters, drum brakes, single-cylinder engines, and no electric start. The classic and vintage look of these motorcycles is also reflected in the construction, with many made from steel and chrome. The combination of classic design and classic construction makes vintage and classic motorcycles a classic choice for motorcycle enthusiasts.
What are the differences between classic and vintage motorcycles when it comes to maintenance?
When it comes to maintenance, classic and vintage motorcycles have quite a few differences. Classic motorcycles tend to be newer. They usually require more frequent oil changes and use more common parts, making repairs and maintenance a bit easier. Vintage motorcycles, on the other hand, were built even earlier, and are generally more difficult to repair and maintain. They require more specialized parts and knowledge, and may also require more frequent tune-ups. All in all, when it comes to maintenance, classic bikes tend to be a bit easier to handle, while vintage motorcycles require more expertise.
What are the common features of classic and vintage motorcycles?
Classic and vintage motorcycles both offer a unique and timeless look, but there are some key differences that set them apart. The most common features of classic bikes are their timeless designs, rebuilt engines, and their old-school look. They may also feature chrome parts, unique handlebars, and spoke wheels. Vintage bikes, on the other hand, have all of the same characteristics as classic motorcycles, but with a more classic look and feel. They often feature classic paint jobs, rear-suspension systems, and antique-style details. No matter which style of motorcycle you prefer, both classic and vintage bikes offer a unique style that can’t be found with modern motorcycles. If you’re looking for a timeless ride, you’ll be sure to find it with a classic or vintage motorcycle.