When it comes to the world of motorcycles, everyone has a favorite brand, but how do they really stack up against each other? This listicle is based on the insights and rankings provided by a passionate motorcyclist on YouTube, who has laid out a tiered ranking system from the worst (F-tier) to the best (S-tier) brands. Remember, these rankings are subjective and meant to spark discussion among enthusiasts, so take them with a grain of salt and feel free to form your own opinions!
Here’s the video:
F-Tier Motorcycle Brands
F-tier brands are considered the bottom of the barrel when it comes to street motorcycles. These manufacturers may suffer from poor reliability, limited availability, and a lackluster range of styles. According to our YouTube guide, Can-Am falls into this category—not only because they specialize in three-wheelers but also due to their reliability issues. EBR (Erik Buell Racing) is also placed in the F-tier, struggling with continuous production and reliability. Benelli sneaks into this list, and while they have had some interesting models like the six-cylinder Benelli Sei, their current offerings leave a lot to be desired.
E-Tier Motorcycle Brands
E-tier brands are a small step up, offering marginally better quality and selection, yet they still have inflated prices for what you get. Harley-Davidson finds itself in the E-tier, with criticisms for its heavy, slow bikes that lack sportiness and innovation. Husqvarna is also in this tier, mainly because their street bikes are relatively new and often seen as dressed-up KTMs. Moto Guzzi is included here too, with the accusation that they recycle the same bike under different names.
D-Tier Motorcycle Brands
D-tier brands show improvement by offering a wider selection and better reliability. Royal Enfield is placed in the D-tier, praised for their simple designs but criticized for limited power and selection. Zero Motorcycles also lands here, recognized for their efforts in electric bikes but still facing issues like range anxiety. Indian Motorcycle is noted for making strides with models like the FTR 1200, but they’re still seen as too similar to Harley-Davidson to rank higher.
C-Tier Motorcycle Brands
C-tier brands are middle-of-the-road, offering decent bikes that might be a good financial decision. Suzuki makes it to the C-tier, with some standout models like the SV 650 and the Katana, despite some dated offerings. MV Agusta, despite their stunning designs and high performance, is held back by reliability concerns. KTM, known for models like the Super Duke and the Duke series, also falls into the C-tier due to reliability issues.
B-Tier Motorcycle Brands
B-tier brands provide plenty of fun, reliability, and performance. Triumph earns a spot in the B-tier for its range of models and build quality, though it lacks a 1000cc superbike. Kawasaki is also B-tier, offering respected models like the ZX-10R and a variety of options, though they tend to stick to certain engine types.
A-Tier Motorcycle Brands
A-tier brands command respect with top-notch looks, power, and reliability. BMW is considered A-tier, thanks to their revolutionary S1000RR and a range of other impressive bikes, despite some gaps in their lineup. Aprilia is placed here as well, with their powerful V4 engines and beautiful designs, though they have a limited presence in the off-road segment. Ducati joins the A-tier, with their high-performance V4 models, though their high price points are a barrier for many.
S-Tier Motorcycle Brands
S-tier brands are the pinnacle of motorcycle manufacturing, offering exceptional quality across a range of models. Yamaha is crowned as an S-tier brand, with a lineup that satisfies nearly every type of rider, from the R3 to the MT series. Honda is also S-tier, with a legendary history of producing reliable, race-winning bikes across all categories.
This ranking is sure to stir up some debate among motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether you agree or disagree with these placements, it’s all in good fun and a testament to the passion that riders have for their favorite brands.
