The best entry-level retro bikes 2025

The 1000PS editors have looked at a whopping 23 (!) motorcycle categories to select the 10 most popular bikes in the 1000PS Top Awards. The entry-level retro bikes are not about power or performance, they are simply about an authentic retro look!

We didn't make it easy for ourselves when rating the 1000PS Top Awards, they had to be clear and above all comprehensible - the most popular bike of the editorial team should really be at the top. That's why we (Horvath, Juliane, McGregor, Mex, NastyNils, NoPain, Poky, Vauli, Wolf and Zonko) have worked out a very special evaluation key. Only those bikes that have actually been rated are included in the rating, then the frequency of the ratings is taken into account and finally the average of the respective ratings is calculated according to the school grading system (1 is the best grade). As not all editors have experience in all areas, there are categories in which not every editor has given a rating.

The jury, made up of respected experts with different areas of expertise, carefully evaluated each motorcycle based on criteria such as innovation, performance and design. With a wealth of experience and a keen eye for detail, they have selected the motorcycles that stand for excellence in their respective categories. The jury is made up of former racers, experienced motorcycle testers, men and women, in short, respected experts who all know their field inside out. Their collective knowledge and rigorous assessment ensure that only the most deserving candidates are honored with this prestigious award.