The 7 Greatest American-Made Motorcycles
When it comes to motorcycles, the U.S. makes incredible machines. So, which American-made bikes are the best? The list below includes a few manufacturers that are no longer operating. But our picks are still the best contemporary American motorcycles you can get right now (recent releases only, so no Cyclones, Excelsiors, or Hendersons).
7. Harley-Davidson Street Bob
Equipped with the powerful new Milwaukee-8 1,753cc v-twin engine, the Harley-Davidson’s Street Bob can achieve up to 110 lb-ft of torque. It’s new, lighter chassis gives it an edgier style than you’d expect.
The Street Bob is light on its feet and dynamic. Its new frame geometry gives you the ability to navigate lean angles. While it still weighs a solid 630 pounds, it only includes the necessities — no decorative steelwork or extra plastic here. The best part? At $14,449, it’s a quality ride for a fair price.
6. Motus MSTR
The Motus MSTR is the only V4-powered sports tourer that’s American made. And not just any V4. Motus offers the fastest production pushrod V4 with an output of 180 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. This bike’s practical positioning won’t make you book a chiropractic appointment. And, with a roomy 5.5-gallon fuel tank, you can enjoy the ride longer.
Each Motus is hand-crafted by real people armed with the best carbon fiber parts and top hardware from Akrapovic, Brembo, Galfer and more. It’s a gorgeous ride but it comes with a hefty price tag of $36.975.
5. Harley-Davidson Iron 1200
The Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 is indisputably a good deal. With a base price of $9,999 for a 2019 model, enthusiasts will tell you it’s the most cost-effective way to get the bigger of two Sportster engines. Its 1200cc twin engine offers up to a 20 lb-ft torque boost over the regular 883cc twin — a difference you’ll notice.
A bobbed rear fender and black-out persona lends the Iron 1200 an appealing street-tough look. Of course, you’ll probably like the “mini-ape” handlebars, ’70s-style tank imaging, and cafe racer-type seat, too.
4. Victory 8-Ball
Victory went out of business in early 2017, when it’s parent company Polaris needed to make cuts. The closure came at a time when it was building a reputation with racing events at the Isle of Man and Pikes Peak.
Victory’s motorcycles live on in the fabulous Victory 8-Ball. This bike has a 97-horsepower 1,737cc v-twin engine that gets 113 lb-ft of torque powering it. Fans love its speed and minimalist style. It has a big front wheel, single-seat, and pleasingly smooth transmission. Dressed in black, the 8-Ball sells for $12,499.
3. Alta Motors Redshift SM
Out of California, Alta Motors has made a big splash in the electric bike industry. It started with an MX motocross dirt bike. Now its made-in-America electric motorcycles include some road-specific models like the Redshift SM. Equipped with Brembo brakes, WP suspension, and a spunky powertrain, the Redshift SM is on many enthusiasts’ wish lists.
Redshift SM features a light Lithium-Ion battery, which powers a PMAC motor that gets 42 horsepower with 120 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of 80 mph, it has a range of about 50 miles, and it fully charges in six hours. At $13,495, it’s a good deal when you factor in its performance and brand-name parts.
2. Rokon Trail-Breaker
The Rokon Trail-Breaker appears on many motorcycle lists. In production since 1963, it can go almost anywhere. With a 208cc single-cylinder engine, the bike is not just a simple, workhorse motorcycle; it gets 7 horses and can go up to 35 mph. The Trail-Breaker can climb a 60% gradient thanks to its two-wheel drive system. It also tows objects weighing up to 2,000 pounds.
With hollow wheels that can be used for storing gas or water, the unit actually can float. Brand new, this versatile motorcycle can be yours from $7,350.
1. Confederate FA-13 Combat Bomber
Finally, we have the Confederate FA-13 Combat Bomber. This was the Alabama-based company’s last motorcycle made under the name Confederate Motors. They are now the Curtiss Motor Company. Due to a partnership with Zero Motorcycles, they’ll produce only electric bikes moving forward.
At first glance, this motorcycle seems to fit the Confederate mold perfectly. It has the billet-alloy monocoque frame, a well-crafted cantilever front suspension, and the company’s signature riding stance. You get all that in a dark, military-style motorcycle with an appearance every bit as intimidating as its performance.
How does it differ from predecessors? The Confederate FA-13 Combat Bomber has the strongest engine the company ever made with 150 horsepower. You’ll pay a lot more for that power but it’s available. An average price tag is $155,000. You’ll not only own one of the best American motorcycles ever, but you’ll also have a valuable collector’s item.
