Motorcycle ownership has been a coveted right of passage since they came about in Germany in 1885, with the Daimler Reitwagen being the first two-wheeled thing of beauty. These original models have paved the way for a large global market, with some of the most renowned brands being Yamaha, Honda, and Harley Davidson.
If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the most expensive motorcycles that you can gaze fervidly over as you contemplate denting your wallet to infuse your life with limitless thrill.
24. Kawasaki Ninja H2R – $50,000
We’re kicking off the list with this exquisite motorcycle that retails at $50,000. The Kawasaki Ninja H2R was created particularly for the closed courses in the SuperSport division. Launched in 2014, the carbon-fiber and supercharged beast with a horsepower of 300 is only available in exclusive markets. The Ninja H2R is a product of the aerospace division of the renowned Kawasaki Industries.
23. TRON Light Cycle: $77,000
Regardless of whether the most recent TRON film tickled your fancy, or you gravitate more towards the original 1982 movie, it’s hardly debatable which of the two featured the better motorcycle that was integral to science fiction. Despite the badass illuminated trail that the motorcycles leave in each film that’s amiss, the TRON Light Cycle crafted by the California-based Andrews Collection is nearly as amazing. The unique car dealership sells this replica that is a true work of art and hard to come by, at a retail price of $77,000.
22. B120 Confederate Wraith: $93,000
Granted, it doesn’t exude as much futurism as the TRON Light Cycle, however, the B120 Confederate Wraith is pricier, retailing at about $93,000. If you’re a motorcycle lover with tens of thousands of dollars to spare and gravitate towards a retro design with impressive performance, then this motorcycle is a worthwhile investment. The B120 has carbon fiber coupled with aircraft-grade billet aluminum that makes it the perfect balance between new and old.
21. 987 C3 4V Vyrus: $103,800
As a reputable Italian manufacturer that crafts exceptional motorcycles powered by top-grade Ducati engines, Vyrus built the one-of-a-kind 987 C3 4V. It’s one of the brand’s priciest models, retailing at slightly over $100,000. With the perfect combination of motocross and sports aesthetics, the 987 C3 4V is lightweight compared to most models on the market, weighing only 158 kg. Furthermore, the naked design makes it a worthwhile investment for a well-to-do enthusiast who’s intrigued by the mechanics.
20. F4CC MV Agusta: $120,000
This bike was not designed for the easy rider but rather one who enjoy the thrill of high speeds. It’s not surprising that the F4CC MV Agusta has a horsepower (HP) of 200. Constructed by hand with more than 90% of its components tailor-made (including the engine valves), the motorcycle retails at $120,000. Only 100 units were crafted, which means, exclusivity justifies the steep price point. Designed with unmatched comfort in mind, the F4CC MV Agusta is a force to be reckoned with in the diverse motorcycle world.
19. Coventry Eagle: $120,000
Besides being one of the priciest, the Flying Eagle is one of the motorcycles of the Royal Eagle manufacturer. While it’s a tad less than a century old, this motorcycle is incredible enough to embark on adventures on today’s road. Built with believers of the adage ‘old is gold’ in mind, the classic look coupled with the high price point makes it a true gem.
18. NCR Mike Hailwood: $130,000
As a retro-looking motorbike with a titanium frame, NCR Mike Hailwood was designed with collectors in mind. It has a horsepower of 130 and is an exclusive model. That’s because only 12 of these bikes were assembled in commemoration of Mike Hailwood, the famous racer at the British Grand Prix. He was commemorated at the Isle of Man. The design mimics the racing motorcycles manufactured in the late 1960s. Retailing at $130,000, the NCR is a collectible any motorcycle racing enthusiast should own.
17. NCR Leggera: $145,000
Like the NCR Mike Hailwood, the Leggera counterpart is a titanium gem. It features Brembo brakes, Öhlins suspension, carbon-fiber wheels, and a 5kg frame. These features make the NCR Leggera extremely agile.
16. Hildebrand Wolfmüller: $150,000
As the first motorcycle to be produced, it’s not surprising that Hildebrand Wolfmüller costs $130,000. It was named after two renowned engineers, Wolfmüller and Hildebrand who partnered in 1894. The motorcycle has a four-stroke engine coupled with two cylinders. If you’re looking for a piece of history, then your quest ends here with Hildebrand Wolfmüller.
15. Black Prince: $162,800
Manufactured in the mid-1950s by a company called Vincent, the Black Prince is a legendary 500cc motorcycle. Given that it hasn’t been produced since then, it’s not surprising that this beloved motorcycle is a dime piece which is why it will set you back about $163,000 if you decide to buy it.
14. Icon Sheene: $172,000
Similar to the NCR Mike Hailwood, there’s no denying that the Icon Sheene is a commemoratory motorcycle that was designed to pay homage to world champion racer Barry Sheene. As a limited edition, only 52 of these motorcycles were crafted which justifies the steep price point of $172,000. Furthermore, when it comes to exclusivity, the manufacturer embedded one of the 52 playing cards on each model. Regarded as one of the most powerful motorcycles, Icon Sheene has a 1500cc engine.
13. Harley Hubless Davidson: $155,000
It’s a badass motorcycle that rides on Hubless wheels which means it lacks spokes. Harley Hubless Davidson features an entirely aluminum frame and its wheels exude uniqueness. Machined from one piece of billet, the braking system of this motorcycle has been built into the wheels. Harley Hubless Davidson has an air cylinder that was uniquely constructed with the load of the motorcycle and what the wheels can withstand in mind.
12. Turbine Streetfighter: $175,000
Manufactured by MTT, this beast has an inbuilt Rolls Royce Allison turbine with 320 horsepower. Turbine Streetfighter has one-of-a-kind Pirelli Diablo tires and limited production of only five bikes annually. Its impressive acceleration with no vibration sets this motorcycle apart from the pack. For that reason, it’s not surprising that the Turbine Streetfighter retails at $175,000.
11. AEM Suzuki Hayabusa: $200,000
If you’ve been a motorcycle aficionado since childhood, you probably had a picture of a Suzuki Hayabusa plastered on your bedroom wall. It was and still is the epitome of cool. It’s, therefore, not surprising that this motorcycle is a prime option for rich folks willing to spend $200,000 to live out their childhood dreams. The AEM Suzuki Hayabusa has the uncanny ability to soar to speeds exceeding 188 miles per hour (mph), making it one of the fastest models worldwide. Initially produced in 1999, this motorcycle was reinvented a decade later in 2008. The upgraded version offers exceptional handling, reliability, noise control, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
10. NCR Macchia Nera: $225,000
As a limited edition, the NCR Macchia Nera comes with a steep price tag of $225,000 that only the well-to-do can entertain. Weighing less than 135 kilos, this motorcycle is a lightweight option that is soaring in popularity as a collectible for enthusiasts.
9. D16RR Ducati Desmosedici NCR M16: $232,500
As one of the most renowned brands in the diverse motorcycle world, bikes from Ducati are not just beasts on the turf but they’re also considered eye-candy. The D16RR M16 is made of the perfect blend of aluminum, titanium, avionic, and carbon fiber for the fenders that collectively contribute to its impressive look and durability. Additionally, the motorcycle is relatively lightweight compared to other models as it weighs about 145kg.
8. FE Titanium Ecosse XX: $300,000
Famous for its unique assortment of motorcycles, Ecosse Moto manufactures one of the priciest options worldwide. One of the brand’s latest models is the FE Titanium series that transmits 228PS of power to the back wheel and is powered by a 2,409cc aluminum billet power plant. The lightweight nature of the bike can be attributed to carbon fiber that was used abundantly during the production process. The saddle is not only comfortable but was also designed with durability in mind as it’s been handcrafted with state-of-the-art Italian Berluti leather. It’s also worth noting that the FE Titanium series is an exclusive model as only 13 units were produced.
7. Vintage Black: $400,000
Originally referred to as Vincent HRD, the legendary British Vintage Black was produced in 1938 and it was superior in speed compared to the famous Jaguar Sports Car. Only 33 of these motorcycles were produced. Furthermore, the legendary musician Richard Thompson drew inspiration from the Vintage Black and sang about it in his renowned album, Rumor & Sigh in 1991.
6. V10 Tomahawk Dodge: $550,000
With a retail price of $550,000, the V10 Dodge Tomahawk wears the crown as one of the priciest motorcycles. Soaring up to 482km per hour and weighing 680kg, the motorcycle goes from zero to sixty in 2.5 seconds which is impressive. It looks like something you’d see in a high-budget science fiction movie. Although this futuristic beast is illegal to ride on public roads, it’s a work of art to keep in your driveway.
5. Cosmic Starship: $1.5 Million
As a product of Harley Davidson Cosmic Starship is a true work of art. Although it doesn’t have much to brag about when it comes to torque and horsepower, this motorcycle was hand-painted by the famous Jack Armstrong which explains its steep price point. After all, his paintings range up to $3 million per piece. Now that’s an expensive paint job!
4. BMS Yamaha Chopper: $3 million
As a pure collectible, the selling factor of the BMS Yamaha Chopper is its exquisite design rather than torque or horsepower. Its extraordinary design implies that it’s not meant to be driven on the road but to be glared at as a magnificent work of art. With a red velvet upholstered seat, this motorcycle is layered in 24K gold and has a unique seating posture that mimics the bikes featured in Samurai Jack. It’s the epitome of ‘riding on gold’ in every sense of the phrase.
3. Ecosse Spirit: $3.6 Million
Manufactured by Eker Design, Ecosse Spirit might look like other peculiar motorcycles you see on the road but what sets it apart from the pack is that it has an impressive maximum speed of 370km. It was constructed based on the design of the formula-one cars by British and American engineers.
Contrary to other motorcycles, only 10 Ecosse Spirit models were manufactured. The manufacturer requires users to enroll in riding classes for two weeks which indicates that amateurs cannot tame this beast.
2. AJS E90 Porcupine: $7 Million
Despite being manufactured in 1949, the AJS E90 Porcupine isn’t too different from the contemporary designs we have today. Regarded as one of the most innovatively designed models, this motorcycle commemorates Les Graham who won the world championship in 1949.
1. Neiman Marcus LE Fighter: $11 million
If you’re not aware of Neiman Marcus in the bike world, there’s a valid reason. It’s a department store rather than a motorcycle manufacturer. When it unveiled the limited edition of the Fighter motorcycle for auction, it was retailing at $110,000. The store later sold it as a revolutionized design at $11 million, making it the worlds most expensive motorcycle model in the world.
Though it only has two wheels, this is actually one of the most expensive vehicles in the world.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to the different ways to get from point A to point B, there’s no denying that everyone has their preferences. While some people gravitate towards the low-carbon footprint that public transportation provides, others prefer the epitome of convenience that comes with driving to their destinations. Four-wheeled vehicles are not everyone’s cup of tea so it’s not surprising that motorcycle ownership has gained in popularity, especially in locations that offer mild climate that support year-round enjoyment.
If the closest you’ll ever get to these motorbikes is the photos, you can revel in them. On the other hand, if you have the money to splurge, owning an expensive bike like any of the beasts on this list will undoubtedly leave you with magical experiences.
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