Top 10 Modern Classic Motorcycles of 2023

Retro models inspired by the past are among today's most popular motorbikes... but which of the BEST Modern Classic motorcycles should you have in your future?

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[danielmcneil]

I think that the W800 should have been high on your list. One of the best looking retro classics out there.

[TheArtdecovampire]

The inclusion of the CFMoto really stretches the definition of modern classic. Then to say its good value compared with the Interceptor. Yes but the Interceptor is a modern classic, and will be a classic in its own right in a few decades. The CF would look as much part of the ace cafe as a flying saucer. Otherwise good choices.

[johntheaccountant]

I would put on my modern classic list:
Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor
Honda Monkey 125
Honda DAX 125
Honda CT125
Honda C125
Honda CB1100

[denchua]

The W800, the truest modern classic, isn't even on the list. Wow...
Pure air cooled no radiator, 360 degree crank, real twin exhausts, spoked wheels, analog dials. Only modern thing on that bike is fuel injection, disc brakes, LED headlight, and ABS. The bare minimum to pass regulations.

[bluefoam]

I'm just back from an Italian bike meetup in Dublin. Out of all of these, I'll stick with my Moto Guzzi V7... It's a fantastic bike.

[MachoMadness]

XSR900 at the top, really?

IMO it’s a very modern looking bike with a few throwback design features, but it does not go anywhere near far enough to be consider a retro bike as such.

And this is coming from someone who bought a new MT-09 a couple of months ago.

[abymathew]

Honda CB1100 EX should be on the list.

[davidleblanc]

While I'm sure that the Yamaha is a fine bike, it is the least Retro looking of the examples discussed. In fact, I find it hard to fine anything retro looking about it. The V7 interests me and I've never really considered Italian bikes before.

[antchory]

For me, Motoguzzi is in my "taste", the machine looks so special, 👍

[dbwgoblue]

I would buy any competitor to the Kawi Z650 just to get rid of that lawnmower sound. Please, Kawi, for heaven's sake put a 270 crank in some of your parallel twins. Before long you'll end up in the Suzuki department of updates consisting of "brand new colorways" while still brandishing a carburetor.

[touchthebacon]

Recently picked up a 2019 Speed Twin 1200 and I have to say I wish I would have looked into this style of bike sooner. The Z900 RS is also in my crosshairs as well as a few others.

[momchilyordanov]

Kawi Z900 RS is the best motorcycle on this list. And CFMoto CL-X does not know what it is. I would even consider current Suzuki SV650 more of a modern classic, than the CL-X. And, as others noted, W800 is should be on the list too.

[SSS-mpth]

R9T got my money, one of the best looking along with many in the Triumph range and also decent power. Most Modern classics I feel are under powered excluding the R9T, Superveloce, 900RS and XSR900.

Also CFMoto instead of the W800 or Ducati Scrambler? My 22 Monkey is more retro than that.

[kildareman]

My V7 850 Centenario scratches my itch. Now with Guzzi's own sports bar and some Babyface rearsets and decent tyres it looks the dogs and handles to boot.

[TallyHoTech]

No Scrambler Ducati and you have Chinese Junk and a Imitation Gold Star.

[ozzyprogdomino]

The new Honda Monkey gets my vote as the best modern retro. The smiles per miles is of the chart.

[rross]

The latest Speed Twin 1200. Magnificent

[joetorres]

Triumph T100 the perfect little all rounder especially in the goldline colours

[flatcapcaferacer]

Some excellent bikes to choose from my picks are Triumph Thruxton RS ( not on your list), Moto Guzzi V7 Claasic, Kawasaki 900 RS. Honorable mention BMW R9T.

[johnshield]

The T120 should sit at the top of this list!