Cafe racer motorcycles have always attracted riders who enjoy a mix of retro style and sporty performance. In 2025, several models offer the classic look, low-slung seating, and engaging ride that define the cafe racer scene, each with unique features and price points. Some bikes deliver an experience that is truly vintage, while others focus on improved speed and handling, along with modern touches.
This article highlights key cafe racer models available in 2025. It covers their riding feel, design trends, customization options, and how evolving markets shape which bikes remain on the showroom floor.
Key Takeaways
- Cafe racer motorcycles combine vintage style with modern performance.
- New designs and features influence the current market and pricing.
- Some classic models have been discontinued while new options continue to appear.
Explaining What a Cafe Racer Is
Main Features and Common Style Choices
Cafe racers have a unique and recognizable look. Key features include clip-on handlebars, a long and slim fuel tank, and an arrow-straight rear frame. These bikes often use minimal bodywork and basic technology, focusing more on looks and riding experience than advanced features.
Many have tuck and roll style seats, bar-end mirrors, and sometimes a half fairing for wind protection. Some models use spoked wheels or a racing-style saddle to keep that classic vibe. You’ll also see accessories like seat cowls or anodized fuel caps to finish off the retro image.
Below is a quick list of common cafe racer details:
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Clip-on bars | Lower, sportier stance |
| Flat seat | Clean, classic look |
| Slim tank | Allows tucked-in riding |
| Bar-end mirrors | Retro style, less clutter |
| Minimal tech | Keeps riding experience pure |
Racing Personality or Old-School Look?
Some cafe racers lean heavily into retro design, aiming for an authentic classic riding feel. These models may offer less speed and comfort, but provide a more immersive ride for those who love nostalgia.
On the other hand, certain bikes give a modern sporty experience while keeping a few retro cues. They often come with proven engines and technology but still include style elements like mini fairings or classic paint jobs to connect with their roots.
- Retro-focused: Old-school riding feel, basic chassis, more about the style than outright speed.
- Sport-driven: Higher performance, advanced parts, sporty stance, but less traditional in appearance.
Both types appeal to different riders. Some want the classic look and feel, while others prefer the performance of a modern machine with just enough vintage flair.
Best Cafe Style Motorbikes for 2025
Royal Enfield GT 650 Classic
The Royal Enfield GT 650 Classic is the most affordable option on this list. It comes with a parallel twin engine that’s air-cooled, creating a true vintage feeling, both in sound and ride. The bike’s basic frame, simple tech, and classic styling make it a great choice for people who want an old-school cafe racer look with a strong retro spirit.
Key Features:
- Air-cooled parallel twin engine
- Slim, long fuel tank
- Clip-on handlebars
- Minimalist frame design
Suzuki SV650X Racer Edition
Suzuki’s SV650X Racer Edition brings a mix of modern reliability and cafe inspiration. While it doesn’t look as classic as some other bikes here, it’s known for a lively 650cc V-twin engine and a comfortable chassis. The ‘X’ version adds a mini fairing, clip-style bars, and a stitched seat for that extra sporty look.
Why Choose It:
- 70hp V-twin engine
- Mini front fairing
- Tuck-and-roll seat
- Clip-on style handlebars
Moto Guzzi V7 S Corsa
Moto Guzzi’s V7 S Corsa is an Italian retro bike with signature details and practical touches. It features a sideways-mounted V-twin engine, a sturdy fuel tank, and shaft drive. The Corsa edition includes a special paint job, a half fairing, racing seat, and unique badge, making it stand out. The upright bars offer comfort for longer rides.
Highlights:
- Transverse 850cc V-twin
- Silver and red paintwork
- Racing-style seat
- Optional seat cowl and bar-end mirrors
Ducati Scrambler Nightshift Cafe
The Ducati Scrambler Nightshift Cafe blends classic style with modern engineering. It offers retro touches like bar-end mirrors, spoke wheels, and a tuck-and-roll saddle. While the lineup is mostly road-focused, the Nightshift has the most classic styling with side number panels and flat handlebars.
Notable Features:
- Bar-end mirrors
- Low flat handlebars
- Unique seat design
- Road-friendly wheels and suspension
Triumph Speed Twin 1200 Café Edition
The Triumph Speed Twin 1200 Café Edition is based on a platform renowned for its strong performance and everyday usability. The latest model includes accessory options to tweak its look towards a cafe racer, such as a low handlebar kit and styled seat. It offers a blend of power, comfort, and retro appeal.
Details:
- Upright riding position
- Optional low bars and cafe seat
- High-performance 1200cc twin engine
- Color-matched seat cowls available
Yamaha XSR900 GP Sport
Yamaha’s XSR900 GP Sport brings an ’80s vibe with a modern spin. It borrows parts from the MT-09, using a lively triple engine. A big seat unit and half fairing in iconic race paint or low-key colors round out the look. It’s fast—pushing around 120hp—and offers a lot of value for the performance.
Features:
- 890cc triple engine
- Half front fairing
- Chunky rear seat unit
- Multiple color options
Norton Commando 961 Café Model
Norton’s Commando 961 Café Model is a high-end pick for those who want both style and craftsmanship. It features a strong 961cc parallel twin, adjustable Ohlins suspension, and premium Brembo brakes. The café version comes with lower, clip-on handlebars for that classic riding stance.
Specs:
- 961cc parallel twin
- Ohlins and Brembo components
- Distinctive styling details
- Choice of sport or cafe bar setups
BMW R12 S Heritage Racer
The BMW R12 S Heritage Racer updates BMW’s classic boxer-powered sports bikes for 2025. It arrives with a half fairing, orange and silver paint, and double red stripes for a true retro look. Powered by BMW’s signature boxer twin, this bike calls back to earlier racing icons while using the latest engineering.
Key Elements:
- Boxer twin engine
- Half fairing in classic colors
- Vintage inspired stripes
- Modern performance updates
Riding Traits and Real-World Feel
Motor Differences and Power Output
Motorcycles in this group come with different engine setups and levels of performance. The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 uses a parallel twin, air-cooled motor known for its traditional character and unique sound. In comparison, the Suzuki SV650X features a 650cc V-twin with about 70 horsepower, offering proven, lively performance.
Further up, the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa runs an 850cc transverse V-twin and a shaft drive for smooth power delivery. Meanwhile, the Yamaha XSR900 GP is the fastest in this lineup, powered by a three-cylinder engine making roughly 120 horsepower. The Norton Commando 961 produces a distinctive, rumbling experience with its 961cc parallel twin. This table sums up the main engine features:
| Model | Engine Type | Notable Power Features |
|---|---|---|
| Continental GT 650 | 650cc Parallel Twin | Air-cooled, classic |
| SV650X | 650cc V-Twin | ~70 hp, sporty |
| V7 Stone Corsa | 850cc V-Twin | Shaft drive, retro feel |
| XSR900 GP | 3-Cylinder Inline | ~120 hp, quickest |
| Commando 961 | 961cc Parallel Twin | Strong noise, torque |
Frame Setup and Ride Response
Each bike’s layout affects how it feels on the road. The Continental GT 650 has a simple frame with limited electronics, giving it an old-school handling style that feels genuine but basic. The SV650X, based on a proven platform, strikes a good balance for road use, while still keeping the rider entertained.
Moto Guzzi’s V7 Stone Corsa offers a stable ride, thanks in part to its size and shaft-driven wheel. The Yamaha XSR900 GP uses modern materials and shares parts with the MT-09, making it agile and responsive, especially for those who value speed and sharp handling. The Norton Commando 961 combines high-end suspension with powerful brakes for strong road manners.
Key differences:
- Basic vs. advanced frames
- Shaft vs. chain drive
- Sporty vs. relaxed geometry
Upright Comfort Compared to Sporty Stance
Seating and handlebar setups lead to very different riding postures. The Continental GT 650 and SV650X both use clip-on handlebars that tuck the rider forward for a classic cafe racer look. The Royal Enfield favors style but may feel less comfortable over long rides.
On the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa, the bars are set higher, giving a more upright and comfortable ride—ideal for those who don’t want to lean far forward. The Ducati Scrambler Nightshift mixes a low and flat bar with a retro seat to create a middle ground between comfort and sporty feel.
The Triumph Thruxton and Norton Commando 961 Café Racer both have aggressive low handlebars, focusing on the classic racing style, while the Sport version of the Commando and the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 offer more daily comfort with higher or flat handlebars.
Riding position overview:
- Aggressive stance: Lower clip-ons, more rider weight forward
- Balanced comfort: Higher bars or upright seating for relaxed use
- Mix of both: Options to change seats and bars to suit taste
These differences give each motorcycle its own character, letting riders choose between style, comfort, and performance.
Modern Looks Inspired by the Past
Styling Cues from Various Decades
Current motorcycle designs often draw from different periods. Some models highlight features from the ’60s and ’70s, such as narrow fuel tanks, clip-on handlebars, and slim frames. Others prefer chunkier lines and paint jobs inspired by the 1980s racing scene. For example:
| Bike Model | Era of Styling | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| GT 650 (Enfield) | 1960s-1970s | Air-cooled twin, straight subframe, classic shape |
| XSR 900 GP (Yamaha) | 1980s | Bold graphics, half-fairing, chunky seat section |
| Nightshift (Ducati) | Retro-modern mix | Spoked wheels, brown seat, side number boards |
Designers blend these time periods to create bikes with distinctive personalities. Some brands focus on authentic retro experiences, while others mix old-school looks with modern performance.
High-End Options and Add-Ons
Manufacturers today offer upgraded features and a wide selection of accessories, letting riders tailor their motorcycles to personal taste and comfort. Common premium upgrades include:
- Adjustable suspension by top brands
- Performance braking systems
- Limited edition paint schemes
- Special seat designs
- Bar-end mirrors
- Accessory seat cowls
Riders can also select between different handlebar types, such as flat bars for comfort or clip-ons for a classic racing posture. These choices, along with extra accessories, allow even sportier or more practical setups—depending on what fits the rider’s needs best.
Some bikes, like the Norton Commando or updated BMW R12S, come loaded with high-end components as standard, setting themselves apart with quality and finish.
Market Standing and Cost Categories
Budget-Friendly Picks
The most wallet-friendly option in this group is the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. This bike focuses on a true retro feel, prioritizing style with its slim tank, clip-on bars, and simple features. Its price tag sits at the lower end, making it possible to get a classic café racer look without spending much.
Other affordable contenders, like the Suzuki SV650X, keep prices reasonable. While less classic in style, models in this range appeal to those who want a sporty ride but do not want to break the bank.
| Model | Style | Key Features | Estimated Price Bracket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Enfield GT 650 | Retro, Classic | Air-cooled, Clip-on | Low |
| Suzuki SV650X | Sporty, Modern | V-twin, Fairing | Low to Mid |
Middle-Tier Rivals
The next step up includes bikes like the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa and the Ducati Scrambler Nightshift. These models blend modern engineering with classic looks. Their prices sit in the middle of the spectrum, offering both style and better performance than entry-level bikes.
Moto Guzzi’s V7 Stone Corsa features special paint, café touches, and shaft drive. The Ducati Scrambler Nightshift stands out with its retro seat and spoked wheels. In this section, buyers get a stronger mix of features and design, but costs remain moderate.
Notable Models:
- Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa
- Ducati Scrambler Nightshift
Premium Selections
At the top end, bikes like the Norton Commando 961 Café Racer and the BMW R12S stand out. Prices here are much higher, often above £17,000. These motorcycles come with premium finishes, advanced brakes and suspension, and unique styling details. Performance is top-tier, and the build quality reflects the price.
This category targets those looking for prestige and top performance. The Norton offers a classic parallel twin with clip-on bars, while the BMW R12S adds a reference to classic sport bike history with luxury touches.
| Model | Peak Features | Price Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Norton Commando 961 | Ohlins/Brembo components | High |
| BMW R12S | Boxer twin, modern tech | High |
Changes in Classic Motorcycle Models
Saying Goodbye to the Thruxton
Triumph ended production of the Thruxton, known for its classic style and strong performance. The Thruxton offered a powerful 1,200cc twin engine and high-end chassis parts, but the aggressive riding position was not comfortable for many riders.
In its final year, Triumph released a special green edition to mark its departure. The Thruxton’s exit from the market made room for the Speed Twin 1200, which kept much of the same platform but used flat handlebars for better everyday comfort. Riders can now add café-inspired accessories like a low handlebar kit and a special seat to the Speed Twin, but it’s still not quite the same as the original Thruxton.
Thruxton vs. Speed Twin Upgrades
| Model | Riding Position | Key Features | Café Racer Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thruxton | Aggressive | 1,200cc engine, High-spec chassis | Discontinued |
| Speed Twin | Upright | Similar platform, Flat bars | Accessory kits |
BMW’s Shift from the r nineT
BMW’s r nineT Racer was a popular pick in previous lists but has also been discontinued. It did not sell in high enough numbers for BMW to keep making it.
BMW has now moved on to the R12 platform. For 2025, they have announced the R12 S, which has a half fairing and a paint scheme that calls back to older boxer twin sports bikes. The R12 S is now the closest thing they offer for fans of this style, with new looks and features inspired by the heritage models.
New BMW Café-Inspired Model
- Name: R12 S
- Engine: Boxer twin
- Style: Retro-inspired with half fairing
- Paint: Orange/silver with double red pinstripes
Final Thoughts
When checking out cafe racers in 2025, several key factors stand out:
- Authentic Style: Bikes like the Continental GT 650 offer old-school charm with true retro looks and a classic riding feel.
- Performance Choices: Models such as the Suzuki SV 650X and Yamaha XSR900 GP give more power and modern handling, appealing to riders who want a bit more speed.
- Comfort vs. Tradition: Some options, like the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa, focus on both comfort and style, while bikes with real clip-on bars might push for a sportier, aggressive position.
- Customization: Many bikes allow tweaks—from seat styles to handlebar choices—so riders can mix comfort with that iconic cafe racer attitude.
| Feature | Retro Models | Sporty Models |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Parallel/V-twin | Inline/Triple |
| Tech Level | Low/Classic | Modern |
| Riding Position | Laid Back | Aggressive |
| Curb Appeal | Strong Retro | Modern Sporty Retro |
These bikes blend nostalgia and performance to fit many preferences. Riders can prioritize old-school experience, practicality, or sportiness to match their ideal cafe racer.
