[2022 Edition] Retro and Cool! 12 Popular Classic Bike Recommendations [By Engine Displacement]

Classic Bikes: Cool with a Subdued Silhouette

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/bmw-%e3%82%aa%e3%83%bc%e3%83%88%e3%83%90%e3%82%a4-%e8%bb%8a%e4%b8%a1-%e4%b9%97%e3%82%8b-1313343/
Classic bikes, loved from ancient times to the present day, are cool with their reassuring, subdued silhouettes.
Even just looking at them, you're drawn in by their profound character and the captivating atmosphere derived from their timelessness and retro feel.

What is the definition of a classic bike?

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/%e8%87%aa%e8%bb%a2%e8%bb%8a-%e3%83%a2%e3%83%bc%e3%82%bf%e3%83%bc-%e3%83%90%e3%82%a4%e3%82%af-%e8%bc%b8%e9%80%81-909690/
In recent years, any bike that allows you to enjoy a classic style is generally referred to as a "classic bike."
While owning a model from that era can be challenging due to the running costs of consumables, a classic-style bike that can be bought new is relatively easy to own.
Let's explain the design of each part that defines a "classic bike."

Chrome-plated parts

While many recent models feature plastic parts like ABS, classic-style bikes use chrome-plated parts for various components such as the front and rear fenders, tank cap, turn signals, suspension, and grab bar. The aesthetic of chrome-plated parts is a hallmark of classic bikes.

Kick starter

While electric starters are now the mainstream for engine ignition, the traditional kick starter is also a characteristic feature of classic-style bikes.
It can be surprisingly challenging to depress the kick pedal every time you start the engine, but the action itself contributes to its cool and subdued appeal.
In the past, most bikes started with only a kick starter, then a combination of electric and kick starters, and now most bikes start with only an electric starter.

Spoke wheels

Spoke wheels, where the hub and rim are connected by thin, rod-like spokes, are also a characteristic feature of classic-style bikes.
While cast wheels are mainstream nowadays, spoke wheels have the advantage of easily absorbing impacts from the road surface. Additionally, they significantly alter the bike's appearance, lending a more attractive overall impression.

Cooling fins of air-cooled engines

Compared to liquid-cooled engines, the cooling fins on the cylinder part of air-cooled engines can be considered a characteristic feature of classic-style bikes.
The beauty of the fins creates a classical style, contributing to the profound character and timelessness of the overall bike.

"Old-look" or "Classic Bike"? Is there a difference?

As the name suggests, "old-look" refers to bikes characterized by nostalgic designs that were once popular in the past.
Specifically, older models are sometimes called "vintage bikes," and bikes with an "old-look" style that imitate these vintage bikes are referred to as "classic bikes," among other terms.

What are Neo-Classic Bikes?

Neo-classic bikes refer to motorcycles that retain their classical design while incorporating modern technology, such as contemporary engines and frames.
Rather than being exact replicas of old classic bikes, neo-classic bikes integrate some modern technology, like engines, and are also known as modern classics or neo-retros.

Top 3 Recommended 125cc Classic Bikes

YAMAHA YB125SP

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/2/92_7/
Type/Grade Name: YB125SP
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 124cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 151,000 yen to 396,000 yen

The Yamaha YB125SP is sold by Yamaha in China. While not officially sold in Japan, many units are imported, making it relatively easy to purchase domestically.
It features a classical and retro aesthetic reminiscent of the SR400.
The relatively affordable price range for used models also makes it appealing.

SUZUKI GN125

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/3/23_2/
Type/Grade Name: GN125
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 125cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 120,000 yen to 320,000 yen

The Suzuki GN125 is sold by Suzuki in China. Similar to the YB125SP mentioned earlier, it is not officially sold in Japan, but due to numerous imports, it can be relatively easily purchased domestically.
While it has a classical appearance, it gives off more of an American vibe.
It is highly durable and popular due to its affordable used price range.

SKYTEAM ACE125

Source: https://arrows-hobby.com/?p=9596
Type/Grade Name: SKYTEAM ACE125
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 124cc
Starting System: Electric & Kick

The SKYTEAM ACE125 is imported by Japan's ARROW. It comes in a stock cafe racer style, reminiscent of Honda's Dream 50.
With its footpegs positioned as if it has rear sets and a stock single seat, this bike is perfect for those who want to experience the cafe style.

Top 3 Recommended 250cc Classic Bikes

KAWASAKI Estrella

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/4/75_1/
Type/Grade Name: ESTRELLA
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 249cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 185,000 yen to 1,100,000 yen

The KAWASAKI Estrella has garnered numerous fans since its launch.
It gained support for its classical and high-quality feel but ceased production in 2017. It remains a popular model with many fans still hoping for its revival.
Furthermore, since its release in 1992, it underwent many improvements, and custom models such as the "Estrella RS," "Estrella Custom," and "Estrella RS Custom" were also introduced.

HONDA GB250 Clubman

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/1/30_1/
Type/Grade Name: GB250 CLUBMAN
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 249cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 199,900 yen to 898,000 yen

The HONDA GB250 Clubman evokes the 1960s with its retro, elegant, and nostalgic atmosphere.
Beneath its classical style, it also boasts high-performance capabilities. Although production ended in 1997, it continues to be supported by many fans.

SUZUKI Volty / ST250

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/3/127_1/
Type/Grade Name: VOLTY
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 249cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 145,400 yen to 374,000 yen

The retro-styled SUZUKI VOLTY and its successor, the ST250.
Compact, easy to straddle, and affordably priced, it was popular among novice riders and women when it was released.
The Volty ceased production in 2004 and was succeeded by the ST250, which continued to be a long-selling model until its production ended in 2017.

Top 3 Recommended 400cc Classic Bikes

YAMAHA SR400

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/2/60_4
Type/Grade Name: SR400 Final Edition Limited
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 399cc
Starting System: Kick starter
Used Car Price Range: 260,000 yen to 2,000,000 yen

The YAMAHA SR400, a truly iconic Japanese motorcycle boasting unwavering popularity for over 40 years since its debut in March 1978. It's no exaggeration to call it synonymous with long-selling success, captivating fans for decades.
Consequently, a large number are available on the market, making used models relatively affordable. Its extensive customization potential allows owners to fully enjoy the pleasure of ownership, riding, and customization.

KAWASAKI W400

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/4/60_1/
Type/Grade Name: W400 Final Color
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Parallel (Inline)
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 399cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 458,000 yen to 898,000 yen

The KAWASAKI W400, introduced in 2006 as the younger sibling of the popular W650.
The W400 essentially utilizes the W650's engine, allowing riders to enjoy the W650's distinctive deep, rhythmic engine sound. Since it's no longer sold new, those considering a purchase will need to look for used models.

HONDA CB400SS

https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/1/7_15/
Type/Grade Name: CB400SS Special Edition
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Single cylinder
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 397cc
Starting System: Electric/Kick combination
Used Car Price Range: 299,300 yen to 1,200,000 yen

The HONDA CB400SS, launched in 2001, stands out for its simplicity and standard design.
Initially, like its rival the SR400, it only had a kick starter, but after a minor model change in 2003, it was equipped with both kick and electric starting systems.

Top 3 Recommended Large Classic Bikes

KAWASAKI W650

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/4/60_2/
Type/Grade Name: W650 Final Color Low Handlebar Specification
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Parallel (Inline)
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 675cc
Starting System: Electric/Kick combination
Used Car Price Range: 399,900 yen to 2,000,000 yen

The KAWASAKI W650 (also known as the "Double Six-Fifty") was a remake in 1998 of the Kawasaki 650-W1 (or "Double One") which appeared in 1966. It's said to have sparked the classic bike boom, gaining immense popularity and creating a legion of passionate fans.

Triumph Bonneville T100

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/10/31_3/
Type/Grade Name: Bonneville T100
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: Parallel (Inline)
Displacement: 899cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 798,000 yen to 1,790,000 yen

The Triumph Bonneville T100, launched in 2002 as a roadster model featuring the iconic vertical twin engine of classic Triumphs.
While its internal specifications have been updated to modern standards through several model changes, it continues to be popular for its unchanged aesthetic beauty.

Ducati SportClassic Sport 1000

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/8/3_2/
Type/Grade Name: Sport 1000 Biposto
Engine Type: 4-stroke
Cylinder Configuration: V-type (L-type)
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Displacement: 992cc
Starting System: Electric starter
Used Car Price Range: 1,298,000 yen

This is a superb bike that combines Ducati's top-tier performance and specifications with a classical aesthetic, featuring clip-on handlebars and bar-end mirrors.

Summary

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/%e3%83%8f%e3%83%bc%e3%83%ac%e3%83%bc-%e6%b0%b4-%e6%b9%96-%e5%a4%9c-2430193/
This time, I introduced recommended classic bikes by displacement. I hope this guide is helpful for those who appreciate retro, subdued, and nostalgic aesthetics.
It's a great idea to purchase a current model new, or for those who want to start riding easily, buying a used one and enjoying further customization seems like a good option. I hope to convey the endless charm of classic bikes.