4 Motorcycle Brands That Maintain Value and 3 That Depreciate Immediately
Written by
Deborah Sabinus
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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Motorcycles are fun, and they can also be a smart investment. But not all bikes maintain their value the same way. Some brands are known for their quality and durability, keeping their value over the years, while a few start reducing in value after the first ride.
Various factors — including brand reputation, build quality and market trends — influence a motorcycle’s resale value.
Motorcycle Brands With High Resale Value
Looking for a bike that’s worth every penny and keeps its value? Check out the following options.
Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson isn’t just a bike — it’s a lifestyle! With their iconic rumbling engines, timeless designs and endless customization options, these bikes are built to last. Riders treat them like family heirlooms, which is why models like the Street Glide and Sportster 883 stay in demand.
You want a bike that ages like fine wine? Harley’s loyal fanbase keeps resale prices strong.
BMW
BMWs are like the Swiss Army knives of motorcycles. They are tough, tech-savvy and ready for anything.
Touring enthusiasts love the R 1250 GS and F 850 GS for crushing miles on rough roads without breaking a break during harsh weather. Their reputation for reliability makes buyers happily pay so much, even for used models.
Ducati
If motorcycles were sports cars, Ducati would be the Ferrari. Ducati is a stylish and high-performance motorcycle brand. It is fast, sleek and classy and attracts many riders. The Panigale V4 in particular has a very high speed. However, riders who just want to have fun prefer the Ducati Monster 821. The Ducati Monster Scrambler Icon appeals to various kinds of riders.
The wide appeal of Ducati motorcycles plays a major role in maintaining their market demand. Ducati’s combo of performance and looks keeps fans hooked — and resale values high.
Honda
The list of motorcycle brands that hold resale value would not be complete without Honda. Honda models like Gold Wing, CRF450R and CBR600RR can cover long-distance touring and even withstand harsh conditions and speed.
Plus, keeping a Honda running won’t drain your wallet. Repairs are affordable, and even your neighborhood mechanic can fix one. Buyers trust that a used Honda won’t leave them stranded, so they’re happy to pay more for it.
Motorcycle Brands that Depreciate Immediately
These bikes might be fun to ride, but don’t expect to sell them for much when you’re ready for a new model.
Hyosung
Hyosung bikes are like the off-brand cereal of motorcycles in the U.S. They’re made in South Korea and just haven’t built the same trust as older brands like Honda, which has been around since 1949.
Hyosung started in 1979, but many riders still think, “Will this thing last?” That doubt means fewer buyers want them, so they depreciate quickly.
Triumph
If you plan to buy a new motorcycle in 2025, it is not advisable to get a Triumph. Triumph was the superstar of the 1960s-70s, but today it’s struggling in the market.
Newer models try to compete with modern bikes but often feel outdated. Likewise, people worry about finding parts or mechanics who can fix them, so used Triumphs sell for way less than they cost new.
Victory
Victory is a must on this list, because it’s one of the brands that’s fast-forgotten. This is because the company stopped producing in 2017. Now, there’s no support — no new parts, no updates, nada.
It’s like buying a DVD in 2025: It’s cool for nostalgia, but nobody will spend heavily on it. Polaris, which bought the Victory brand, also stopped producing motorcycles, because the ROI wasn’t enough. This caused a drastic depreciation of its value.
Takeaway
Before buying your next motorcycle, look into how much you can resell it for later. This way, you will experience top-tier motorcycle services while staying financially smart and preparing for a sale.
Also note important factors like road conditions, ride locations, your skill level and the proposed use of your motorcycle to make informed choices. While financial value is the focus, you should enjoy your motorcycle while you’re at it!
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