The 10 iconic brands that have shaped the history of the motorcycle

If you think that a motorcycle is just a machine for burning rubber or showing off on a Sunday with your CB500, think again. Behind every roaring engine, there is a story brimming with gasoline, legends, and sometimes controlled skids. In 2025, let’s not forget that two-wheelers are also a damn symbol of freedom, a cry of rebellion against a sanitized world, carried by brands that have shined a spotlight on the history of motorcycles. From the transcontinental battles of the Japanese to the proud Europeans with their strong accents, these ten brands have put the pedal to the metal, often more than you on your go-kart track, to shape what we now call the motorcycling myth.

Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha: the infernal trio that heated up the global rubber

It’s impossible to talk about the greatest motorcycle brands without mentioning Harley-Davidson first. This American brand, born in 1903, is a bit like the cowboy of the roads, with its V-Twin engines roaring like a beast ready to pounce. A living legend that, despite the passage of time, continues to resonate with bikers around the globe. Harley-Davidson has solidified the image of the rebellious and unruly biker in concrete, a true cultural phenomenon that even ads can't kill.

But no grudges here, Honda and Yamaha are not far behind. Straight from the Japanese factory, these two giants have revolutionized the two-wheeled machine. Honda, with its Dream D-type launched in 1948, shook up the market with easy-to-ride motorcycles that captivated the masses. Yamaha, its gossip since 1955, has never stopped innovating, churning out versatile and robust models like mining rods. The two Japanese pals remain essential in 2025, and their reign over motorcycles is no flash in the pan. If you want a glimpse, dive into this universe of history and evolution of motorcycle brands, it’s pure gasoline concentrate.

The Europeans that deliver heavy: Ducati, BMW, Triumph, and Moto Guzzi

Let's head across the Atlantic, where elegance often pairs with power and a hint of national pride. The Italian brand Ducati, founded in 1926, initially toyed with radios, but it’s after the war that it launched into sports and thrills. Its sharpened machines have become track beasts that purists still venerate today. To understand Ducati's legacy, only the Panigale V4 gives an idea of the beast.

Let’s not forget the German giants of BMW, who began their motorcycle adventure in 1928. The R32 was the first shot of a range that continued to take care of bikers with models that are always reliable, robust, and at the cutting edge of technology. Not to mention the British Royal Enfield, which, although old school, has made an irresistible retro comeback with its Classics and Continentals.

Triumph, a pillar of the United Kingdom since 1902, is no slouch on the asphalt either. Bonneville, Tiger, there’s the real cream of British motorcycles, machines that make both hipsters and true track electronics dream. And let’s also admire Moto Guzzi, these beautiful Italian motorcycles with crazy charm, turning heads with their transverse engines, somewhat like a guitar solo on a deserted road.

The electric future: Zero Motorcycles, America innovates at full throttle

So yes, the planet is heating up, and even motorcycles have to get on board. Hence the explosive emergence of Zero Motorcycles, born in 2006, which had its finger on the electric gear well before many others. The American pioneer has established itself as the undisputed leader in electric motorcycles, a clean lineup with style, proving that you can deliver power without the roar of exhausts and the smoke. The future of motorcycles? Perhaps, especially if this transition allows everyone to find their fit – or rather helmet – in this new world that is moving.

Kawasaki and Suzuki: the sacred fire of Nippon on the sports scene

Finally, we can’t overlook Kawasaki and Suzuki, names that sound as loud as a tightly held throttle. Kawasaki, over a hundred years old and having moved from boats to engines, made a splash in 1949 by launching sports machines that are fast, sharp, and with a reputation that doesn’t falter. The Ninja has become a myth for all those who want to soar at the speed of sound.

On its side, Suzuki has had a similar turn, although its history begins with the manufacturing of weaving looms. The Colleda COX 125cc laid the foundations for a meteoric rise. Today, Suzuki blends engine know-how and pure performance, a delight for track racers who swear by the brand. Discover their entire history in this file that should ignite your engine passionately etched into the asphalt.

The cultural impact: these brands, our icons on two wheels

Beyond the machines, these brands have profoundly impacted motorcycle culture and society. They have forged identities, created styles, and fueled the dreams of countless bikers. Whether it’s the "made in USA” purr of Harley-Davidson, the technical creativity of the Japanese, or the Italian flair of design, each of these icons has imposed its legend in popular culture. Even in 2025, this legacy continues to provoke thought, fire up engines, and pave the way for generations of bikers who don’t give up.

To delve into this fascinating and passionate subject, nothing beats diving into the archives and stories of these famous brands that have marked history. We promise a ride as intense as a series of sharp turns, and above all, without crashing.

So, to answer bluntly the burning question: would I buy one of these legendary bikes? Not with my money, but if I’m lent one, I’m off for a wild trip, hands gripping the handlebars, the engine screaming all the way to Valencia, with one hand down my pants and the wind in my face.