Kawasaki channeled their 1970s Z1 when designing their 2020 Z900RS, and it’s now got the perfect combination of modernity and retro charm. With a lightweight body, and easy speed controls, it’s a great bike for beginners and experienced riders alike.
A comfortable seat and an upright bar position make the Z900RS a great choice for long trips. At a price of around $10,000, it competes with other affordable retro bikes on the market, including the Yamaha XSR900.
Suzuki DR200S
This compact bike is the smallest of Suzuki’s dual-sport collection. It may not be as retro as the 1930s, but it does have roots that go back to the 90s, and its classic design hasn’t changed all that much.
The 2020 DR200S takes riders on a nostalgic journey down memory lane with its carbureted, air-cooled, two-valve motor, and five-speed, manual transmission. Even though the concept may have been born about two decades ago, today’s model provides a reliable, easy cruise down surface streets. However, there are better bikes for hitting the highways.
Kawasaki W800
The 2020 Kawasaki W800 has some of the most retro-style aesthetics of any of the bikes on our list. It’s designed to look like the Kawasaki W1 from the early 1960s, which the brand nailed.
At less than $10,000, the bike is one of the more affordable retro machines on the market these days. And, with a 733cc vertical twin, air-cooled engine, it’s also got a smooth, steady flow of power. As of now, the bike only comes in one color, Candy Cardinal Red. It’s a great bike for cruising down backcountry roads or through the city.
Fantic Caballero 500 Rally
Scramblers just scream retro, and the 500 Rally is no different. Loaded up with high-quality parts from brands like Domino, Tomaselli, and Brembo, its modern design is built to last.
The engine is single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, and capable of putting out 449cc. Its lightweight body comes in at just 330 pounds, making it pretty easy to handle for most riders. You can get your hands on the 500 Rally for less than $9,150.
Yamaha XSR700
There’s really nothing not to love about the 2020 Yamaha XSR700. Although the body and frame remain the same as the retro version, updates and cutting-edge technology make for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Perfect for everything — from cruising through the mountains to riding down the freeway on your way to work — the XSR700 is the bike that’s meant to be ridden basically anywhere. It’s pretty close to the MT-07, with a few exceptions, including the seat, handlebar, and tires. You can ride away in an XSR for just $8,500.