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When everything around is high-tech and futuristic in today’s world, it is still impossible to resist the charm of retro motorcycles. These bikes remind us of the golden age of motorcycling when round headlights, twin exhausts, upright handlebars, and simple, minimal bodywork were the norm. But this is the beauty of riding in 2025: you can still have that classic, retro style motorcycle design without sacrificing the comfort of modern engineering. That is where retro roadsters can excel. They combine nostalgia and utility, ensuring retro looks with good reliability, new safety equipment, and smooth rideability.
There is a world of beautiful retro-styled bikes out there to suit every riding level. Whether it's British classics such as Triumph, bold Italians, such as Moto Guzzi, or classics of BMW, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Royal Enfield, the choice is diverse and stylish. These retro-style motorcycles of the newer age are not just machines; they are a great work of art. We will explore the top 10 retro roadster motorcycles you can buy in 2025, each having its own story and personality.
1. What Makes a Retro Roadster Motorcycle?
A retro roadster motorcycle is not just a bike; it goes back to the beginning of motorcycling. These machines combine the most favorable aspects of the past and the present. The design is retro, the ride is modern, safe, and smooth. A retro roadster is easy to identify. They tend to have vintage gas tanks, round headlights, basic gauges, and upright riding positions. The majority of them are naked, i.e., they lack bulky fairings and covers, which makes them look clean and raw in their own way, and many riders prefer that.
However, do not be misled by their retro look. The motorcycles are not outdated. Modern retro motorcycles are loaded with current features. You will have features such as ABS brakes, traction control, ride modes, and LED lighting. Others even have smartphone pairing and sophisticated suspension.
Retro bikes provide the vintage appearance of a motorcycle, but are free of the mechanical problems associated with old bikes. That is why when you are riding a retro-style motorcycle, you get the classic style, but with the reliable power, smooth handling, and modern comfort. This is why such retro-style motorcycles have become so popular, because they are able to give the riders the popularity of old, cool motorcycles, but with the ease of new technology.
2. Best 10 Retro Roadster Motorcycles to Buy in 2025
So, we are going to have a closer look at the top retro-style motorcycles that you can purchase in 2025. These vintage roadsters include lightweight urban motorbikes to high-powered long-distance tourers. Each of them has its own interpretation of the vintage old school motorcycles, yet provides you with the engineering and performance advantages of the current time.
#1
2.1 Triumph Speed Twin 1200
| Triumph Speed Twin 1200 Specs | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1200 cc Liquid Cooled, 8 Valve, SOHC, 270° Crank Angle, Parallel-Twin Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 103.5 hp / 77.2 kW at 7,750 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 83 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm |
| Seat Height | 31.7 in (805 mm) |
| Wet Weight | 476 lbs |
| Base Price | $13,795 |
Triumph Speed Twin 1200 is one of the most excellent modern classic motorbikes available today. It combines old-fashioned naked beauty and actual muscle. The core of this bike is a 1,200 cc parallel-twin engine, which produces 103 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque. It is more than enough to deliver a thrilling ride, and yet it feels easy to drive in traffic or on backroads.
The most important thing about the Speed Twin 1200 is its balance. The design combines old-school British looks with the blacked-out engine covers, bar-end mirrors, stylish tank, and dual upswept exhausts. Triumph Speed Twin 1200 also ensures better handling by adding superior brakes and suspension to make the riding smoother and more responsive.
Want to cruise in style but carve corners over the weekend? The Speed Twin delivers that retro vintage motorcycle feel with serious performance. It is one of the best when it comes to a powerful, cool, and dependable retro bike.
#2
2.2 BMW R 12 NineT
| BMW R 12 NineT | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1,170 cc Air/Oil-Cooled Two-Cylinder, Four-Stroke Boxer Engine With Two Overhead Camshafts, Four Radially Arranged Valves and Central Counterbalance Shaft |
| Peak Horsepower | 109 hp at 7,000 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 85 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm |
| Seat Height (At Unladen Weight) | 31.3 in |
| Wet Weight | 485 lbs |
| Base Price | $17,245 |
The BMW R 12 NineT is a fresh approach to one of the most honored brands in the retro motorcycle world. This bike has a 1,170 cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine, which provides 109 hp of smooth, steady power. Even the boxer engine is a reference to the long BMW history in the motorcycle market, and this retro-styled motorbike has true heritage.
Design-wise, the R 12 NineT appears as if it stepped out of an old picture, only to give it a present-day persona. It has a perfect old bike look with its round headlight, clean tank lines, and brushed metal fittings. On the tech side, it has cornering ABS, ride modes, and even optional heated grips. The shaft drive is a massive bonus. It decreases the maintenance and makes the ride smooth and quiet.
The R 12 NineT is not a mere bike; it is a machine to be admired and liked over a long period of time, with its quality construction, useful features, such as the hand-stitched seat and the aluminum tank. It is undoubtedly one of the finest retro bikes available on the market today.
#3
2.3 BMW R 12 S
| BMW R 12 S | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1,170 cc Air/Oil-Cooled Two-Cylinder, Four-Stroke Boxer Engine With Two Overhead Camshafts, Four Radially Arranged Valves and Central Counterbalance Shaft |
| Peak Horsepower | 109 hp at 7,000 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 85 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm |
| Seat Height (At Unladen Weight) | 31.3 in |
| Wet Weight | 485 lbs |
| Base Price | $21,590 |
The BMW R 12 S is a more sporty version of the already successful R 12 NineT. It is constructed with the rider in mind who desires a bit more bite in their retro roadster. The R 12 S is, however, tuned to a more spirited ride, although it uses the same 1,170 cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine.
Having low-slung handlebars, a skinnier tank, and a forward slanting seating posture, this motorbike brings a bit of aggressiveness to the vintage motorbike scene.
The riding position is more rigorous, and you get the impression of a vintage street motorcycle that is prepared to ride in the corners. However, it does not end there with just appearance. The R 12 S comes with a lot of features such as ABS, ride modes, traction control, and a minimalist digital display.
The frame of the bike is also reinforced to enhance cornering and handling, and therefore it is tight and connected in every turn. Despite all that modernity, it retains a classic style motorcycle identity with a round headlamp, café racer-style nose fairing, tail cowl, sculpted tank, and classic roadster profile. The R 12 S is difficult to overlook when you want a retro-looking motorcycle with a touch of sportiness.
#4
2.4 Triumph Speed 400
| Triumph Speed 400 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 398.15 cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Valve, DOHC, Single-Cylinder Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 39.5 hp (4 0PS) at 8,000 RPM |
| Peak Torque | 27.7 ft lb at 6,500 rpm |
| Seat Height | 31.10 in (790 mm) |
| Wet Weight | 375 lbs (170kg) |
| Base Price | $5,295 |
The Triumph Speed 400 is one of the most promising newcomers, introduced in 2023. It ensures that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to ride in style. Being sold at about $5,295, it is one of the best solutions if a rider wants to find a cheap retro-motorcycle that works and looks like the real thing. It is a bike constructed to the same level of care and attention as the bigger models made by Triumph, and you can see that in every detail.
The Speed 400 is propelled by a characterful and responsive TR-Series (Euro 5 compliant) 398 cc single cylinder engine, which is smooth and friendly in its power delivery. It is designed as a bike that newer riders can handle as a fun commuter. It weighs slightly above 375 lbs, making it one of the best lightweight retro bikes this year. The graphics take all the elements that you would want on a retro-style bike, such as the teardrop fuel tank, the brushed metal finishes, the round LED headlamp, and the bar-end mirrors.
The price is very low, but the features are modern, such as ABS, switchable traction control, ride-by-wire throttle, and slipper & assist clutch to assist in smooth gear changing. Ride in the city or ride the highways, this modern retro motorcycle is a combination of value, style, and practicality that not many motorcycles can express.
#5
2.5 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
| Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 647.95 cc Inline Twin Cylinder, Four Stroke / SOHC Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 34.9 kW at 7,250 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 52.3 Nm at 5,150 rpm |
| Seat Height | 805 mm |
| Wet Weight | 217 kg |
| Base Price | $6,849 |
Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is a real gem in the retro motorcycle market, at least to those interested in an inexpensive retro motorbike that does not compromise. Having an engine capacity of 648 cc and a parallel-twin engine, costing less than seven thousand dollars, it represents an excellent option for a rider who seeks a classic-looking motorcycle with satisfying performance.
The engine of the RE Interceptor 650 is very smooth and torquey, and is good to ride at a decent speed. Its upright posture and neutral ergonomic positioning allow it to be comfortable on long rides or on short daily commutes. The style is pure 1960s, with chrome accents, twin exhausts, a round headlamp, and spoked wheels all coming together to form a true retro vintage motorcycle.
The interceptor has good fuel economy and easy maintenance. Do not be worried about the availability of this bike. It has a good dealer network worldwide. It is one of the few motorbikes that presents the classic vintage motorcycles in terms of style and sound, not to mention, it is quite wallet-friendly. It is an ideal bike both for a new rider and for a veteran who wants to bring a touch of classic taste into his garage.
#6
2.6 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone 850
| Moto Guzzi V7 Stone 850 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 853 cc Transversal 90° V-Twin, Two Valves Per Cylinder, Air Cooled With Ride By Wire |
| Peak Horsepower | 67.3 hp (49.5 kW) at 6,900 rpm (Also available at 35 kW, A2 Driver License) |
| Peak Torque | 79 Nm at 4,400 rpm |
| Seat Height | 780 mm |
| Wet Weight | 218 kg |
| Base Price | $ 9,690 |
The Moto Guzzi V7 Stone 850 is the coolest and most original retro roadster you can ride in 2025. Made in pure Italian spirit, the bike is distinguished by a transverse V-twin engine, bare body work, and matte deep colored paint. It not only looks good, but it also runs well.
Having an 850 cc engine that provides good low-end torque, the V7 Stone is good to use in city traffic and long journeys on the open roads. The shaft drive is one of the features that distinguishes the V7 Stone from other retro motorcycles. It implies more pleasant rides and fewer maintenance issues as opposed to chain-driven bikes.
The Moto Guzzi V7 Stone 850 has classic lines in its tank design, the seat is upright and relaxed, and the overall look presents a very classic motorcycle look. The LED lighting, a digital dash that looks good, a comfortable ergonomic design, and retro looks, along with modern convenience, make it a success in the retro roadster market. This classic style motorbike is not too fancy and pretentious, but it is also very cool and elegant, and this is why it can be great to ride around on it and feel cool.
#7
2.7 Ducati Scrambler Icon
| Ducati Scrambler Icon | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 803 cc L-Twin, Desmodromic Distribution, Two Valves Per Cylinder, Air Cooled Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 73 hp (53.6 kW) at 8,250 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 48.1 lb-ft (65.2 Nm) at 7,000 rpm |
| Seat Height | 795 mm (31.3 in) 810 mm (31.9 in) with High Seat Accessory 780 mm (30.7 in) with Low Seat Accessory |
| Wet Weight (No Fuel) | 176 kg (388 lbs) |
| Base Price | $11,195 |
The Ducati Scrambler Icon is one of the best options available to riders who prefer to ride a retro street bike that is fun, playful, and easy to operate. Ducati is a brand of high-performance motorcycles, and with Scrambler Icon, they introduce the same level of excitement to a retro-style bike that is fresh, bold, and has a lot of character.
The Scrambler Icon features an 803 cc L-twin engine, which produces 73 horsepower, making it lightweight and easy to handle, suitable for weekend rides and even city commutes or short trips across some twisty roads.
The combination of a style and personality is what makes the Scrambler Icon one of the coolest retro motorcycles. Available in colourful paint schemes that evoke the older Ducati models, the bike has wide handlebars, high exhaust, and dual-sport tires that provide rugged character.
Tech-wise, it has everything going its way with cornering ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, and even smartphone connectivity to play music and take calls. It looks retro on the outside, but it is completely modern inside. The Scrambler Icon is one of the most successful retro bikes today. A bike that adds fun, performance, and fashion to every ride.
#8
2.8 Kawasaki Z900RS ABS
| Kawasaki Z900RS ABS | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 948 cc Inline Four-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve, Liquid-Cooled Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 110.0 hp at 8,500 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 72.3 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm |
| Seat Height | 32.9 in |
| Wet Weight | 474.1 lbs |
| Base Price | $12,649 |
The Kawasaki Z900RS ABS is a retro-style, powerful bike. This motorbike is inspired by the iconic Kawasaki Z1 that Kawasaki produced in the 1970s, and it revives the old cool motorcycle appeal but with the power of a 948 cc inline-four engine that produces 111 horsepower. It is among the most powerful retro roadster bikes and is thus ideal for every rider who loves to have both speed and the classic appearance in a single bike.
However, the Z900RS is not only about the power. It is loaded with modern facilities such as a slipper clutch, traction control, adjustable suspension, and dual disc brakes with ABS. The seats are upright and well-shaped. The long, teardrop-shaped tank and round headlight give the bike a powerful retro style feel.
The sound of the engine makes it raw and exciting, which is not very common in modern, quiet, and efficient motorcycles. The Z900RS ABS is an elite bike when it comes to retro style that does not compromise performance. It is daring, speedy, and is loaded with the vintage naked style that riders adore.
Must Read: 10 Most Comfortable Naked Bikes
#9
2.9 Yamaha XSR900
| Yamaha XSR900 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 890 cc Liquid-Cooled, DOHC, Inline Three-Cylinder; 4 Valves Per Cylinder Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 117 hp at 10,000 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 93 Nm (68.6 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm |
| Seat Height | 32.1 in |
| Wet Weight | 432 lbs |
| Base Price | $10,599 |
The Yamaha XSR900 demonstrates an ideal way in which a retro-style motorcycle can be modern, quick, enjoyable, and personalised. It is based on the platform of the Yamaha MT-09 and thus has the same 890 cc triple-cylinder engine that boasts good mid-range torque and smooth power. It is a fast, agile, and nimble bike that reminds one of the Yamaha racing past in the 1980s and 1990s.
Must Read: Top 10 Most Hooligan Motorcycles You Can Buy
The XSR900 has features of more premium sport bikes. It is equipped with ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control, cornering ABS, and quick shifter (clutchless upshifts).
However, the real distinguishing feature is actually its design, which features a round LED headlight, retro-looking tank, and a clean, minimalist rear. It is daring and unique, but obviously a retro roadster under the skin. If you are a retro-loving rider who just needs all of the tech and performance of a sportbike, the Yamaha XSR900 is a winning combination of both worlds in a stylish, exciting motorcycle.
#10
2.10 Kawasaki W800
| Kawasaki W800 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 773 cc 4-Stroke, Parallel Twin, SOHC, 4 Valves, Air-Cooled Engine |
| Peak Horsepower | 47.3 hp at 6,500 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 46.4 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm |
| Seat Height | 31.1 in |
| Wet Weight | 498.3 lbs |
| Base Price | $10,399 |
When it comes to straight-up retro appeal, the Kawasaki W800 will not disappoint. It is a 1960s-era bike that literally has just come out of the showroom. It is equipped with a 773 cc air-cooled, vertical twin engine with bevel drive camshaft, which is a unique feature in the modern-day market and further enhances the motorcycle's vintage look. The W800 is smooth and easy, and it also has enough punch to give it personality, but not too much to intimidate new or casual riders.
The W800 has all the classic features, including the round mirrors and the wide handlebars, stitched seat, and twin exhaust pipes. The tank is beautiful, modelled on the ones of old-fashioned motorcycles, with pinstriping and polished metal.
The W800 is not the fastest bike around, but that is not the point. It is intended for those riders who are more interested in simplicity, style, and tradition. It has got modern additions such as ABS and fuel injection, but it still maintains its roots at the same time, making it easy to ride. The W800 is a sound choice in the sub-1,000 cc category if one is looking for a retro vintage motorcycle that is simple yet stylish.
3. Retro Roadster 2025 Buying Guide
3.1 Engine Size
When selecting a retro-style motorcycle, consider what is suitable for your level of experience. If you have never ridden before, then aim for a 400 cc motorbike.
These bikes are much easier to handle, and yet they still have a lot of power to run them on a daily basis. On the other hand, consider a model having an engine size of more than 850 cc if you are an experienced rider looking for increased power and torque.
3.2 Tech Features
Although you are aiming at that vintage motorcycle look, safety tech is crucial. Safety and comfort are provided by features such as ABS, traction control, ride modes, and LED lighting. These are becoming standard on many modern retro bikes.
3.3 Weight
Retro bikes are also lightweight and easy to maneuver in the city or narrow parking areas. When riding to work or casually, a lighter bike of 350-450 lbs is perfect. Heavy bikes are more stable, yet may not be easy to maneuver at low speeds.
3.4 Budget
Everyone can find a retro roadster within a budget. Whether you are on a low budget and looking for cheap retro motorcycles such as the Triumph Speed 400 or you are in the market to buy a high-end machine such as the BMW R 12 NineT, you do not need to break the bank to have a good ride. There are a lot of affordable and cheap retro bikes that provide style and powerful motors.
3.5 Design and Style
A genuine retro bike ought to possess that mysterious, enduring charm, such as chrome accessories, round headlights, shiny tanks, and limited body enhancements. British style of Triumph, the Italian heart of Moto Guzzi, the Japanese stability of Kawasaki and Yamaha, whatever it is, the design should make you feel close to the ride. The finest vintage motorcycles are those that look as good standing still as they do when in motion.
Must Read: Top 10 Two-Wheel Drive Motorcycles
4. Conclusion
The year 2025 is not just a motorcycle year; it is a celebration of the retro moto movement. The revival of retro roadsters shows that vintage style is never out of date. Riders no longer have to compromise on beauty and performance; they can now have it both.
You are likely to be tempted by the muscled, good looks of the Triumph Speed Twin 1200; the sturdy nostalgia of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, or the Italian swagger of the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone.
However, every bike on the list of the 10 best retro roadster bikes in 2025 has a character and style of its own. They are more than motorcycles; they are time machines with fuel tanks, and they give you an opportunity not only to take pleasure in the place you are going, but also in the trip itself.
Whether it be an inexpensive retro-style motorcycle or a high-end, performance-oriented modern classic motorcycle, there is a model to suit every rider and price point in this year's range. When deciding what to ride next, don’t only consider looks, specs, and figures.
Consider what the bike means to you. These machines are not designed for riders who are in a hurry, but for those who appreciate experience, riders who appreciate soul over specifications, and legacy over luxury.




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