Top Reliable Motorcycle Brands for Dependable Rides

Motorcycles are not just a means of transportation; they represent a lifestyle and a passion for many enthusiasts. When it comes to choosing a reliable motorcycle, the brand plays a crucial role in ensuring that riders enjoy a safe and exhilarating experience without frequent mechanical breakdowns. Renowned brands that have consistently topped the charts for reliability often bring a combination of innovative engineering, quality craftsmanship, and rigorous testing. In this article, we explore some of the best brands in the motorcycle industry that are synonymous with reliability and performance. Discover below which brands make the cut.

Illustration of motorcycle for reliability

Best brands of motorcycle for reliability in 2025

Honda

Honda motorcycles are renowned for their exceptional reliability, with a failure rate of just 12% after four years of ownership, as reported by a 2015 Consumer Reports survey of over 11,000 subscribers. This places Honda among the most reliable motorcycle brands, alongside Yamaha and Suzuki. Honda's reliability is further underscored by its low percentage of reported problems per 100 motorcycles, standing at 17% compared to Harley-Davidson's 26%. Additionally, well-maintained Honda motorcycles can last well over 25 years and accumulate up to 150,000 miles or more, highlighting their durability and long lifespan. For more insights on the longevity of Honda motorcycles, you can read the article How Long Do Honda Motorcycles Last? on the Powersports Company blog.

Yamaha

Yamaha is renowned as one of the best motorcycle producers for reliability, with a stellar track record supported by extensive data. In a survey of over 11,000 motorcycles by Consumer Reports, Yamaha exhibited the lowest failure rate, with only 11% of its motorcycles experiencing breakdowns within the first four years. This reliability is further underscored by a separate survey involving nearly 5,000 motorcycles built between 2009 and 2021, where Yamaha motorcycles had a repair rate of just 10%, significantly lower than the industry average. Yamaha's commitment to using high-quality materials and cutting-edge design techniques ensures durable and long-lasting motorcycles. This reputation for reliability makes Yamaha a trusted name in the motorcycle industry. For additional insights, you can explore more about how good Yamaha motorcycles are.

Suzuki

Suzuki is renowned as one of the most reliable motorcycle brands, as evidenced by a 2015 Consumer Reports survey of over 11,000 subscribers, which showed that Suzuki motorcycles had a failure rate of just 12% over a four-year period, adjusting for mileage and age. This reliability is further supported by a reliability rating of 8.7 and an average lasting mileage of 90,000+ miles for touring motorcycles. Suzuki's commitment to durability and performance is highlighted in models like the Hayabusa, which features advanced electronic systems and a robust engine designed for long-term reliability. Owner satisfaction is also high, with 81.3% of customers likely to buy again. Suzuki's reputation for reliability makes it a top choice for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Kawasaki

Kawasaki is renowned for its reliable motorcycles, boasting a failure rate of just 15%, which has significantly improved in recent years, as highlighted by Consumer Reports' 2015 study. This positions Kawasaki among the top reliable brands, alongside other Japanese giants like Yamaha, Suzuki, and Honda. Kawasaki's reliability is underscored by its high-performance models that, while requiring more frequent maintenance, offer unmatched performance. With a reliability rating of 8.8 and an average lasting mileage of 80,000+ miles for touring motorcycles, Kawasaki stands out as a dependable choice for riders.

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad, while not the top-rated brand for reliability, still offers a relatively high level of reliability with a rating of 77/100, outperforming some other brands like Harley-Davidson. Certain models, such as the BMW R1200GS and BMW F800GS, are known for their durability and long-lasting performance. However, BMW motorcycles can experience issues like electrical problems, fuel system issues, and transmission problems, which can be mitigated through regular maintenance. According to Consumer Reports, BMW motorcycles have a predicted failure rate of around 40% by the fourth year of ownership, but proper care can significantly enhance their reliability. Find more details on their models and specifications on the official BMW Motorrad website.

Triumph

Triumph motorcycles, while not the most reliable, hold a respectable position in the market with a 29% failure rate, as reported in a 2015 Consumer Reports study involving over 12,000 motorcycles. This places them above brands like Ducati, BMW, and Can-Am, and they have improved since past issues such as oil leaks in the 1990s. Triumph ranks seventh in reliability among major motorcycle brands, with a mixed reputation that is nonetheless appreciated for its polished and highly regarded models. Despite not matching the reliability of Japanese brands like Yamaha, Suzuki, and Honda, Triumph remains a popular choice for its smooth ride and long history. Their reliability has been steadily improving, making them a viable option for motorcycle enthusiasts. For more details, check out Triumph Motorcycles' reliability.

Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson, although not the most reliable, has made significant strides in improving its reliability. According to Consumer Reports, about 26% of Harley-Davidson owners reported experiencing major problems in the previous four years, which is better than some European brands like BMW, which had a 40% failure rate over the same period. Despite this, Harley-Davidson maintains a strong customer satisfaction rating, with 74.9% of owners likely to buy again. The brand is known for its traditional design, powerful engines, and robust after-sales services, contributing to its loyal customer base. However, it still lags behind Japanese brands like Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, and Kawasaki, which have failure rates ranging from 11% to 15% for four-year-old motorcycles.

Ducati

While Ducati is often associated with high-performance and sleek design, its reliability can be a mixed bag. According to Consumer Reports, Ducati motorcycles have a 33% failure rate, largely due to their complex engineering and demanding components. However, certain models like the Ducati 916 and the Panigale 959 have shown higher reliability ratings, with the 959 boasting a 5/5 reliability score from its owners. Despite these variations, Ducati's focus on performance and design makes their bikes highly sought after, even if they require more frequent maintenance. The brand's history, including models like the 916, has contributed to its reputation in the motorcycling world. Explore the 2024 Ducati Panigale V2 for a glimpse of the brand's innovative offerings.

KTM

KTM motorcycles are renowned for their reliability, particularly in high-performance and off-road contexts. With a strong commitment to quality engineering and the use of premium components, KTM ensures its bikes can withstand rigorous conditions, as evidenced by their dominance in motocross and enduro racing. Many KTM owners report logging tens of thousands of miles without significant issues, and the brand has a reliability rating of 7.8, with 68.7% of customers likely to buy again. Proper maintenance and the use of genuine KTM parts are key to maximizing the longevity of these bikes. KTM's advanced manufacturing facilities and rigorous testing processes further solidify their reputation for reliability. For more details, you can explore KTM's reliability insights.

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle, under the ownership of Polaris Inc. since 2011, has emerged as one of the most reliable motorcycle brands, benefiting from advanced engine designs, superior braking systems, and high-quality manufacturing standards. With models like the Indian Scout and Indian Chieftain, the brand has demonstrated durability and performance, achieving high mileage without major issues when properly maintained. Indian Motorcycles have been ranked among the top reliable brands, with a reliability rating of 7.2 and an average lasting mileage of 100,000+ miles for touring motorcycles. The integration of engineering innovations from Victory Motorcycles has significantly enhanced their reliability, including smoother transmission shifts and more robust engine performance. This commitment to reliability has led to a significant improvement in customer satisfaction, with 61.9% of customers likely to buy again.