In a world where mobility defines progress, the $115+ billion global motorcycle industry roars ahead, fueled by innovation, cultural legacy, and increasing demand for affordable transportation. As per reports, the global motorcycle market size is projected to reach $225.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%. [1]
From commuter-friendly scooters to high-performance superbikes, leading manufacturers cater to diverse riders across the world. Asia dominates motorcycle production, with India alone selling more than 20 million motorcycles per year, followed by China and Indonesia.
Meanwhile, premium brands like BMW, Ducati, and Harley-Davidson continue to thrive in Western markets, where demand for high-performance and touring bikes is on the rise. The US motorcycle market, valued at $10.48 billion in 2024, is expected to exceed $13.28 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1%. [2]
In this article, we break down the largest motorcycle brands worldwide, exploring their market presence, revenues, and competitive edge. Whether you are a speed enthusiast or a market analyst, the details here will shift your perspective into high gear.
Did you know?In 2023, China dominated the global electric two-wheeler market, selling nearly 6 million units. As the undisputed leader in this segment, China is projected to maintain its top position through 2035. [3]
Table of Contents
15. Ducati Motor Holding
Founded: 1926Country: Italy
Annual Sales: 58,224 units (2023)
Popular Models: Multistrada V4
Competitive Edge: Premium Italian engineering
Ducati has built a reputation for producing powerful, stylish, and technologically advanced motorcycles. It’s a wholly owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group via Lamborghini.
The company operates a premium business model, offering exclusive, high-end models and limited-edition motorcycles. Its strong presence in MotoGP, World Superbike, and endurance racing, enhances its global appeal.
Two of its most iconic models represent opposite ends of the spectrum: The Panigale V4 is a track-focused, high-performance superbike, powered by a 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine. On the other hand, the Multistrada V4 is a versatile, adventure-touring motorcycle, blending power with long-distance comfort.
In 2023, Ducati achieved a major milestone by surpassing €1 billion in revenue for the first time, reporting €1,089 million—a 24% increase over 2021’s €878 million. The operating profit also saw a significant rise, reaching €109 million, a 77% growth compared to €61 million in 2021. [4]
However, in 2024, Ducati experienced a 6% decrease in global deliveries, with 54,495 motorcycles delivered compared to 58,224 in 2023. Its top three markets remain Italy, the United States, and Germany. The company continues to focus on expanding its reach through strategic partnerships and a robust dealer network.
14. Niu Technologies
Country: China
Annual Sales: 924,340 units (2024)
Popular Models: NQi and MQi series
Competitive Edge: IoT-enabled two-wheelers
Founded in 2024, Niu Technologies has revolutionized urban mobility with stylish, energy-efficient, and app-connected electric two-wheelers. It’s a major player in the growing electric motorcycle and e-scooter market, competing with brands like Yadea, Segway-Ninebot, and Gogoro.
The company manufactures electric scooters, motorcycles, and bicycles, primarily in China, and exports them to Europe, North America, and Asia. To strengthen its global presence, it has opened flagship stores in major cities, including Paris, New York, and Berlin.
Niu’s IoT-enabled scooters offer smart connectivity, allowing users to monitor battery life, GPS location, and maintenance status through a dedicated app. The app also includes features like vehicle diagnostics and anti-theft alerts for enhanced security.
One of Niu’s standout models is the KQi Kick-Scooter Series, which integrates smart features such as regenerative braking, customizable riding modes, and a durable build, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. [5]
In 2024, Niu Technologies sold 924,340 units, including e-motorcycles, e-mopeds, and e-bicycles—a significant rise from 709,802 units sold in 2023.
13. Triumph Motorcycles
Founded: 1983Country: United Kingdom
Annual Sales: 133,677 units (2024)
Popular Models: Street Triple 765
Competitive Edge: Three-cylinder engine technology
Triumph Motorcycles is the largest British motorcycle manufacturer and one of the fastest-growing brands, renowned for its classic roadsters, high-performance sport bikes, and adventure motorcycles.
The company blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to deliver high-quality motorcycles. It manufactures in the UK, India, and Thailand, maintaining its British engineering identity while benefiting from lower-cost production in Asia.
Triumph has engineered advanced liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder engines with dual overhead camshafts. These engines power several of its flagship models, including the Speed Triple 1200 RS, Rocket 3, and Street Triple 765.
In recent years, the company has expanded its product portfolio to include the off-road segment, launching motocross and enduro models. It has also partnered with its subsidiary, OSET Bikes, to develop junior electric off-road motorcycles, catering to younger riders and promoting sustainable mobility.
In 2024, Triumph achieved its fifth consecutive year of record global sales, selling 133,677 motorcycles, a 33.6% increase from the previous year. Interestingly, sales in the 250-500cc segment reached 54,000 units, surpassing other premium manufacturers. [6]
12. BMW Motorrad
Founded: 1923Country: Germany
Annual Sales: 209,100 units (2023)
Popular Models: R 1250 GS, S 1000 RR
Competitive Edge: Advanced technology & safety system
BMW Motorrad produces luxury touring motorcycles, adventure bikes, and high-performance sportbikes. It is a pioneer in advanced rider technology, safety features, and innovative engineering, making it a top choice among adventure enthusiasts and premium motorcycle buyers.
The company emphasizes advanced technology, safety features, and customization options to meet diverse customer preferences. It has been a pioneer in innovations like ABS, Dynamic ESA, adaptive cruise control, and radar-based safety systems.
Plus, it emphasizes premium materials, precision engineering, and features like shaft drives for enhanced performance. To further support its customers, the company provides financial services to make motorcycle ownership more accessible.
In FY 2023, BMW sold over 209,100 motorcycles, marking a 3.04% increase from the previous year. However, in the first nine months of 2024, the company announced a recall of 1.5 million vehicles due to an issue with the integrated braking system. This development prompted BMW to revise its annual financial targets, lowering the EBIT margin forecast for the motorcycle segment to 6-7%, down from the previously anticipated 8-10%. [7]
11. KTM
Founded: 1934Country: Austria
Annual Sales: 280,206 units (2023)
Popular Models: KTM 390 Duke
Competitive Edge: Lightweight & high-performance engineering
Founded in 1934, KTM has evolved into a market leader in motocross, adventure, and street bikes. It has built a strong reputation for lightweight, high-performance motorcycles equipped with advanced lightweight frames, high-torque engines, and off-road technology.
KTM has won more than 340 world championship titles across various racing formats, including Supercross, Dakar Rally, MotoGP, Moto3, and Moto2. The company continues to compete aggressively in MotoGP with factory and satellite teams. It has also developed new aerodynamics and chassis technologies, drawing directly from its racing performance expertise.
In FY 2023, KTM, along with its sister brands Husqvarna and GASGAS, achieved a record consolidated sales of approximately €2.66 billion. The motorcycle segment witnessed a 2% increase in sales, totaling 381,555 units. Among these, KTM accounted for 280,206 motorcycles, Husqvarna sold 67,462 units, and GASGAS contributed 29,532 units. [8]
Recently, KTM has expanded its product lineup and entered new market segments. It has also increased its stake in other motorcycle companies, such as a 50.1% stake in MV Agusta. As of 2025, KTM has over 6,000 employees, including around 1,300 in Research & Development. [9]
10. Piaggio Group
Founded: 1884Country: Italy
Annual Sales: 436,300 units (2023)
Popular Models: Vespa Primavera, Aprilia RS 660
Competitive Edge: Strong brand portfolio
Piaggio Group is one of the largest two-wheeler manufacturers in Europe and a global leader in scooters and lightweight motorcycles. The group owns several well-known brands, including Vespa, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Gilera, and Derbi, covering a broad range of motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers.
Piaggio’s product lineup features several popular models across its brands. These include the Vespa Primavera, a timeless scooter blending classic design with modern performance; the Aprilia RS 660, a middleweight sportbike known for advanced technology and dynamic handling; and the Moto Guzzi V7, a retro-styled motorcycle that seamlessly combines vintage aesthetics with contemporary engineering.
In the first nine months of 2024, Piaggio’s two-wheeler segment sold 290,300 units globally, including 40,000 motorcycles, reflecting a 4.4% increase in motorcycle sales compared to the same period in 2023. However, the company reported a net financial position of negative €461.2 million, down from negative €434 million at the end of 2023. [10]
9. Royal Enfield
Founded: 1901Country: India
Annual Sales: 944.000 units (2024)
Popular Models: Royal Enfield Classic 350
Competitive Edge: Classic & retro-styled motorcycles
With a rich heritage dating back to 1901, Royal Enfield has successfully blended traditional aesthetics with modern engineering to captivate a global audience. Founded in 1901 in England, the company is now owned by India-based Eicher Motors. It is the world’s oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production.
Royal Enfield is renowned for its classic, retro-styled motorcycles with thumping single-cylinder and twin-cylinder engines. It dominates the mid-sized motorcycle segment (250cc–750cc) and has a strong presence in India, Europe, and North America.
Models like the Classic 350, Hunter 350, Himalayan, and Interceptor 650 have been key drivers of the company’s success. In 2024, they sold approximately 944,000 motorcycles globally, marking a 4.7% increase from 2023. [11]
Financially, Royal Enfield has reported robust performance, with a substantial rise in profits driven by strong sales of higher-capacity motorcycles, especially the Himalayan and Interceptor 650. Between 2022 and 2024, sales and profits grew at an impressive CAGR of 24% and 44%, respectively.
8. Harley-Davidson
2003 VRSCA V-Rod
Country: United States
Annual Sales: 162,700 units (2023)
Popular Models: Sportster lineup
Competitive Edge: Strong brand identity & lifestyle appeal
Harley-Davidson is one of the most iconic motorcycle companies in the world, known for its heavyweight cruisers, touring bikes, and V-twin engines. It has built a strong identity around freedom, power, and the American biker culture.
The company focuses on delivering a distinctive riding experience, defined by its iconic V-twin engine rumble and highly customizable designs. Its robust dealer network, coupled with community-building efforts like the Harley Owners Group (HOG), strengthens customer loyalty and creates a strong sense of camaraderie among riders.
It also offers financial services to its customers through Harley-Davidson Financial Services, providing financing options for motorcycle purchases. This integrated approach increases customer loyalty and generates multiple revenue streams.
In 2024, Harley-Davidson unveiled new models, such as the Street Glide Ultra and the Pan America 1250 ST, alongside refreshed versions of six iconic Cruiser models. While these launches have sparked enthusiasm among enthusiasts, some riders have voiced concerns about rising prices, worrying that the higher costs could alienate middle-class buyers. [12]
7. Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine Company
Founded: 1896Country: Japan
Annual Sales: 444,000 units (2023)
Popular Models: Ninja ZX-6R
Competitive Edge: Supercharged & high-performance motorcycles
Kawasaki Heavy Industries produces high-performance sportbikes, adventure motorcycles, and heavy-duty off-road vehicles. The company maintains a strong market presence in North America, Europe, and Asia, offering a diverse motorcycle lineup that spans various segments to cater to a wide range of riders.
The Z series, such as the Z650 and Z900, cater to the naked bike segment, offering a blend of performance and everyday usability. The Ninja series, especially the Ninja ZX-6R and ZX-10R, are well-regarded in the sportbike category for their performance and handling. In the adventure and touring segment, the Versys series provides versatility and comfort for long-distance riding.
In recent years, Kawasaki has focused on enhancing its production capabilities and expanding its product portfolio. A notable development is the establishment of a new production facility in Mexico, which significantly boosts the company’s capacity to manufacture off-road vehicles and better serve the North American market. [13]
The company is also actively investing in hydrogen technology, developing and commercializing integrated solutions for the hydrogen supply chain, which aligns with global sustainability trends.
In FY 2023, Kawasaki sold about 444,000 motorcycles across the world, compared to 555,000 units a year before. The company has set ambitious targets for its Powersports & Engine segment, aiming for revenues of 1 trillion yen ($6,5 billion) by 2030. [14]
6. Suzuki Motor Corporation
Founded: 1909Country: Japan
Annual Sales: 1.91 million units (2023)
Popular Models: Suzuki Gixxer 150 & 250
Competitive Edge: Affordable, fuel-efficient commuter motorcycles
Suzuki Motor Corporation, one of the world’s oldest motorcycle manufacturers, is renowned for producing performance sportbikes, adventure tourers, and commuter motorcycles. Beyond motorcycles, the company also manufactures automobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), outboard marine engines, and a range of small internal combustion engines.
The company operates on a diverse and multi-segment business model, focusing on high-performance motorcycles as well as affordable and fuel-efficient motorcycles for urban riders. This approach has been particularly successful in emerging economies, where demand for cost-effective and reliable transportation is high.
Suzuki’s revenue streams are diversified across its product segments, with substantial contributions from both its automobile and motorcycle divisions. In FY 2024, Suzuki reported $36.60 billion in revenue, compared to $35.74 billion in 2023 and $33.05 billion in 2022. [15]
The motorcycle division, in particular, sold about 1.91 million motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles worldwide in FY 2023, with Asia accounting for the majority, at around 1.59 million units. The upward trend continued into 2024, with global motorcycle sales reaching 1.4 million units in the first eight months, reflecting an 8.3% year-on-year growth. [16]
5. Yadea Group Holdings
Country: China
Annual Sales: 15 million+ units
Popular Models: Yadea G5
Competitive Edge: Graphene batteries and fast-charging lithium-ion packs
Yadea Group is the world’s largest electric two-wheeler company (by sales volume) that manufactures electric scooters, motorcycles, and bicycles. It emphasizes innovation, quality, and sustainability, investing heavily in R&D to enhance product offerings and maintain a competitive edge.
As of 2025, the company holds over 2,000 patents, most of which are related to battery technology, including its proprietary graphene batteries that perform efficiently even at temperatures as low as -20°C. The company has been investing in AI-powered electric bikes equipped with self-diagnostics and automatic updates. It is also integrating 5G and cloud-based connectivity to enable advanced navigation and remote control features. [17]
In 2023, Yadea entered the US market, launching its products at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Plus, it collaborated with the Porsche Design Center to present the VF F200 e-scooter, underscoring its dedication to high-end design and innovation.
Yadea is deeply committed to eco-friendly production and zero-emission transportation. To date, the company has contributed to reducing over 49 billion kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to planting approximately 2.4 million trees. [18]
4. Bajaj Auto
Founded: 1945Country: India
Annual Sales: 3.7 million units (2024)
Popular Models: Honda Activa
Competitive Edge: Largest two-wheeler exporter from India
Bajaj Auto is one of the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturers and India’s second-largest two-wheeler company, best known for its affordable, fuel-efficient motorcycles.
The company mass-market motorcycles, primarily targeting commuter and budget segments. A significant number of sales comes from premium sports bikes in the 150cc-400cc segment with its Pulsar and Dominar models. In FY 2024, the Pulsar brand grew by 37%, selling over 1.4 million units—the highest ever since its inception. [19]
Bajaj has strategically partnered with global brands like KTM and Triumph to bolster its presence in the premium motorcycle segment. It manufactures KTM Duke, RC, and Husqvarna motorcycles in India for both domestic sales and global exports. In 2023, Bajaj introduced the Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X in India, competitively priced to attract a wider audience.
Furthermore, Bajaj Auto has ramped up its focus on the electric vehicle segment. The company launched the Chetak electric scooter, which has gained substantial market traction, with sales volumes tripling year-over-year. [20]
3. Yamaha Motor
Founded: 1955Country: Japan
Annual Sales: 4.83 million units (2023)
Popular Models: Yamaha YZF-R Series
Competitive Edge: Performance & racing DNA
Yamaha Motor is one of the world’s most renowned motorcycle manufacturers, known for its high-performance motorcycles, cutting-edge technology, and strong brand heritage. The company produces everything from commuter motorcycles and superbikes to off-road dirt bikes and racing machines, and exports them to over 180 countries.
Yamaha is a dominant player in India, where it sold over 1.2 million units in 2023. India, Indonesia, and Vietnam are key manufacturing hubs, while Europe and North America remain a strong market for premium and performance motorcycles.
Yamaha has a strong presence in MotoGP and World Superbike racing, underpinned by its advanced engine technologies, including the Crossplane inline-four and high-revving twin-cylinder engines.
In 2023, Yamaha’s best-selling models were the Yamaha FZ Series, catering to commuter and street bike enthusiasts with over 600,000 units sold, and the Yamaha YZF-R15, an entry-level sportbike popular across Asia, which recorded sales of over 400,000 units. [21]
The company is also making strides in its electric and hybrid segment. In 2022, Yamaha announced the E01 electric scooter, offering a range of 100+ km, and partnered with Gogoro to introduce battery-swapping technology in Taiwan and India. [22]
2. Hero MotoCorp
Founded: 1984Country: India
Annual Sales: 5.9 million+ units (2024)
Popular Models: Hero Splendor
Competitive Edge: Extensive distribution network
Established in 1984 as Hero Honda (a joint venture with Honda), the company became Hero MotoCorp in 2011 after ending its partnership with Honda. Today, it is India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, with over 10,000+ dealerships and service centers in the country. It exports to over 40 countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Kenya, and Colombia.
Hero MotoCorp focuses on affordable, fuel-efficient commuter motorcycles (like Splendor and Passion) and scooters (like Pleasure and Maestro), targeting price-sensitive customers in rural and semi-urban markets.
The Hero Splendor continues to be one of the company’s most popular models, particularly in the commuter motorcycle segment. In 2024 alone, the company sold about 3.5 million units of Splendor, a growth of 9% from the previous year. [23]
Hero MotoCorp has also expanded its premium motorcycle range with models such as Xtreme 160R 4V, Karizma XMR, and Mavrick 4. Plus, it has collaborated with Harley-Davidson to design and market premium motorcycles under the Harley-Davidson brand in India, including the Harley-Davidson X440.
1. Honda Motor
Country: Japan
Annual Sales: 18.7 million units (2024)
Popular Models: Honda Activa
Competitive Edge: Low maintenance costs and durability
Founded in 1948, Honda Motor maintained its leadership in the motorcycle industry for over six decades, surpassing all competitors in units sold, revenue, and brand recognition. Its motorcycle business follows a high-volume, low-margin strategy, prioritizing mass production, cost efficiency, and a broad product lineup that spans from affordable commuter bikes to high-performance superbikes.
The company has a strong presence in Asia, Latin America, and Africa, where motorcycles are a primary mode of transport. The Asian market accounts for almost 80% of its total sales, with India and Indonesia being the biggest contributors.
In FY 2024, Honda sold nearly 18.7 million motorcycles worldwide, a modest 0.3% increase from the previous year. In India, its subsidiary, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, reported a turnover of $3.08 billion in FY23, with a profit after tax of $223 million, reflecting an impressive 87% increase from the previous fiscal year. [24]
The company aims to launch approximately 30 global electric models by 2030, targeting sales of 4 million electric units that year. To achieve this, Honda plans to cut costs by about 50% compared to current levels by 2030 through optimizing specifications, procurement, production, and modularization of parts. [25]
Read More
Sources Cited and Additional References- Automotive, Motorcycle market trend and analysis, GMI
- Industry Analysis, US motorcycle market size & trends, Grand View Research
- Surabhi Sarda, Can Indian electric two-wheelers challenge China’s dominance?, The Economics Times
- Corporate News, Ducati overcomes 1 billion euros revenue for the first time in its history, Ducati
- Micro-Mobility Solutions, KQi scooters combine sleek design, durability, and innovative technology, NIU
- Triumph, Global sales hit the 5th all-time record in a row, Motorcycles Data
- Louis Goss, BMW posts profit warning on recall of braking system and weak Chinese demand, MarketWatch
- Sales Figures, More detail on those record KTM sales figures 2023 and 2024, MCNews
- The Company, Explore the world of KTM in 360 degrees, KTM
- Press Release, The sales trends of the first nine months of 2024, Piaggio Group
- Royal Enfield, Global sales hit new record increasing 4.7% near the 1 million target, Motorcycles Data
- Debbie White, Fan warns Harley-Davidson ‘will be outta business’ soon if changes aren’t made, The Sun
- Kawasaki Report, Delivering solutions for an ever-changing society, Kawasaki Global
- Agenda, 2030 progress report meeting, Kawasaki Heavy Industries
- Company Highlights, Annual revenue of Suzuki Motor, CompaniesMarketCap
- Vehicles & Road Traffic, Suzuki Motor Corporation’s worldwide motorcycle sales, Statista
- News, Yadea recognized as global no.1 in sales volume for 7 consecutive years, Yadea
- Homepage, Our contribution to the planet, Yadea
- Annual Report, Management discussion & analysis CY2025, Bajaj Auto
- Ajit Dalvi, Made-in-India car and SUV exports rise 3%, Autocar Pro
- Integrated Report 2024, Pursuing the unique style of Yamaha Motor, Yamaha Motor
- News, Yamaha introduces the e01 electric scooter with fixed battery, Yamaha Motor
- News, Hero Splendor remains India’s best-selling 2-wheeler in 2024, TeamBHP
- Vehicle Manufacturing, Honda Group’s motorcycle sales, Statista
- Business Strategy, Pursuing the “electrification” and “intelligence” of mobility, Honda