The question of the most popular motorcycle in Australia does not have a single simple answer. Popularity varies by category, rider experience, and intended use. Road bikes, off-road motorcycles, scooters, and adventure touring models all perform differently in the Australian motorcycle market. Using FCAI figures and recent sales data, this guide explains which motorcycles and brands perform best, why Australian riders choose them, and how market trends have shifted in recent years. Understanding the Australian Motorcycle Market The Australian motorcycle market includes road bikes, off-road motorcycles, scooters, and off-highway vehicles such as ATVs and side-by-side vehicles. Only FCAI members report retail numbers, which means the data reflects brands represented by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. In 2024, 94,224 motorcycles and off-highway vehicles were sold in Australia. This represented a slight decline of 1.8 percent compared with the previous year. In 2025, total sales reached 92,967 units, a further decrease of 1.3 percent, reflecting pressure on discretionary spending. Despite this, the market remains fairly competitive and stable across key segments. Road Bikes: The Most Visible Category Road motorcycles remain one of the most discussed categories when people ask about the most popular motorcycle in Australia. In 2025, road bike sales declined by 3.6 percent to 33,018 units, but several models continue to dominate buyer interest. Yamaha MT-07 The Yamaha MT-07 is consistently one of the most popular motorbikes in Australia. It features a 689cc parallel twin engine producing around 75 horsepower and 68 Nm of torque. With a lightweight design of approximately 182 kg, it is agile, responsive, and easy to handle. The MT-07 appeals to both new and experienced riders, with over 40 percent of buyers being experienced riders. Its balance of performance, comfort, and value keeps it near the top of sales charts. Kawasaki Ninja 400/500 The Kawasaki Ninja 400 (and its successor, the Ninja 500) remains a strong performer in the lightweight sports category. With a kerb weight of just 168 kg, it offers a good balance of performance and comfort for city cruising and highway riding. Priced around $8,000 to $9,000 in Australia, the Ninja platform is widely regarded as suitable for both new and experienced riders, making it one of the most popular road bikes over recent years. Honda CB650R The Honda CB650R offers a different appeal, powered by a 649cc inline-four engine producing around 95 horsepower. Its upright riding position balances comfort and control, making it suitable for daily commuting and weekend rides. Priced between $12,000 and $13,500, it attracts riders looking for refinement, smooth power delivery, and long-term reliability. KTM RC 390 The KTM RC 390 is known for its race-inspired design and lightweight performance. Its 373cc single-cylinder engine produces around 44 horsepower and suits both track enthusiasts and city riders. Typically priced between $8,500 and $9,500, it remains a popular choice for riders who want sharp handling and sporty character. Adventure and Touring: A Growing Segment Adventure touring continues to be one of the strongest categories in Australia. The Yamaha Ténéré 700 stands out as the top-selling adventure touring motorcycle, valued for its durability, off-road capability, and versatility on open roads and highways. Premium adventure models such as the BMW R 1250 GS and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin are also highly popular. These bikes are chosen for long-distance touring, advanced technology, and comfort features suited to Australian conditions. Cruisers and Heritage Bikes Cruiser motorcycles continue to attract loyal followings. The Harley-Davidson Breakout is a standout model, known for its muscular styling and extensive customisation options. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, it typically retails between $26,000 and $30,000. While cruiser sales are smaller in volume than road bikes, their popularity remains strong among experienced riders. Brand Popularity and Search Trends Search share data provides insight into what Australian riders are researching and considering. In Q4 2024: Yamaha led with an 18.3 percent search share Kawasaki held second place with 14.4 percent Honda followed at 13.1 percent Harley-Davidson maintained 6.8 percent Ducati declined slightly to 5.7 percent KTM dropped from 7.4 to 7.1 percent CFMOTO saw a small increase to 3.6 percent Japanese brands such as Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki are favoured for reliability and value. European brands like BMW and KTM attract riders seeking advanced rider aids and premium technology. What Makes a Motorcycle Popular in Australia? Across categories, popular motorcycles tend to share key characteristics: Versatility across city, highway, and recreational riding Strong reliability and manageable maintenance Balanced performance rather than extreme output Good value relative to features and build quality Australian riders often prioritise practicality alongside performance, especially given long distances, mixed road conditions, and varied riding purposes. Choosing the Right Motorcycle for You Rather than focusing on a single most popular motorcycle, riders are better served by choosing a bike that suits their intended use, experience level, and budget. Learners often look toward LAMS-approved models. You can explore current options through guides like the best LAMS bikes of 2024 and best LAMS bikes of 2025. Riders timing their purchase may also benefit from understanding the best time to buy a motorcycle based on market conditions. Explore Popular Motorcycles at Procycles If you are exploring the most popular motorcycles in Australia, seeing them in person can help you understand the differences that matter most. Procycles is Sydney’s No 1 motorbike sales dealership, with over 50 years of experience representing brands such as BMW, KTM, Kawasaki, and Yamaha. With locations in Hornsby and St Peters, Procycles services riders across Sydney’s North, CBD, and South to the Shire. You are welcome to visit, talk bikes with experienced staff, or browse a wide range of motorcycles suited to Australian riders and conditions. Frequently Asked Questions What is the most sold motorcycle in Australia? There is no single most sold motorcycle overall. Popularity varies by category, but models like the Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Ninja 400, and Yamaha Ténéré 700 consistently rank highly. What is the most popular motorcycle? The most popular motorcycle depends on riding purpose. Naked bikes, lightweight sports bikes, and adventure motorcycles are currently the most popular categories. What is the best motorcycle brand in Australia? Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki are the leading brands in Australia, known for reliability, strong dealer networks, and wide model ranges. Which bike is more famous in Australia? The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is particularly well known for adventure touring, while the Kawasaki Ninja series and Yamaha MT range are famous among road riders.