Top 10 Best Motorcycle Brands in North Devon

Why North Devon Is Made for Motorcycling

Few places in England offer riders such a rich variety of roads as North Devon. The A39 Atlantic Highway traces the coast with dramatic sea views, the climb from Lynmouth onto Exmoor is legendary among bikers, and quiet lanes around Hartland and the Torridge valley reward riders who enjoy technical corners. In summer, visiting riders flock to the area, while locals use motorcycles for everything from beating tourist traffic in Barnstaple to weekend touring into Cornwall and Somerset.

Choosing the right brand depends on how and where you ride. Salt spray from the coast, wet winters and steep gradients all place demands on a machine. Below are ten motorcycle brands that suit North Devon riding especially well, with notes on their strengths, popular models and reputation.

How We Ranked the Brands

We considered reliability, model range, suitability for mixed rural and coastal riding, dealer and servicing support in the South West, resale value and rider community. Brands that offer a broad spread from learner-legal bikes to touring machines scored particularly highly.

The Top 10 Motorcycle Brands for North Devon Riders

1. Honda

Honda's reputation for bulletproof reliability makes it the default choice for many riders. From the nimble CB125F for learners to the NC750X commuter and the Africa Twin adventure bike, Honda covers almost every need. Its bikes cope well with damp coastal conditions and hold their value strongly.

2. Yamaha

Yamaha offers characterful engines and excellent handling. The MT-07 and Tracer 7 are hugely popular with riders who enjoy twisty Exmoor roads, while the Ténéré 700 has become a favourite for light adventure riding on byways and gravel tracks.

3. Triumph

As Britain's leading motorcycle manufacturer, Triumph blends heritage style with modern engineering. The Bonneville range captures classic British charm, the Tiger adventure bikes excel on long tours and the Street Triple delivers thrilling performance. Many North Devon riders enjoy supporting a home-grown brand.

4. BMW Motorrad

BMW's GS adventure series is arguably the benchmark for long-distance touring. The R 1300 GS and F 900 GS offer comfort, advanced electronics and weather protection ideal for multi-day trips through the South West. Premium build quality and safety technology justify the higher price for many riders.

5. Kawasaki

Kawasaki delivers strong performance and value, with the Z650 and Ninja 650 being excellent choices for newly qualified riders on A2 licences. The Versys range provides versatile touring capability, and the brand's sporty image continues to attract enthusiasts.

6. Suzuki

Suzuki is known for dependable, affordable machines. The V-Strom 650 and 800 are highly regarded as practical all-rounders, capable of commuting on weekdays and touring the Atlantic Highway at weekends without fuss.

7. Ducati

For riders seeking passion and performance, Ducati stands apart. The Multistrada combines superbike engineering with touring comfort, while the Monster and Scrambler ranges offer Italian style for more relaxed coastal cruising. Ducati's advanced electronics also enhance safety in changeable weather.

8. KTM

KTM excels at lightweight, agile motorcycles with an off-road heritage. The 390 Duke and 390 Adventure are brilliant learner-friendly options, and larger adventure models appeal to riders exploring green lanes and farm tracks in rural North Devon.

9. Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence with affordable, retro-styled bikes such as the Interceptor 650, Classic 350 and Himalayan. Their relaxed performance suits scenic coastal riding perfectly, and low running costs make them attractive to new riders.

10. Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson remains the icon of cruiser culture. Touring models such as the Road Glide and Street Glide offer supreme comfort for long days in the saddle, and the Pan America has broadened the brand's appeal into adventure territory. Harley ownership also brings a strong social community and group rides.

Motorcycling Trends in North Devon

Adventure and crossover bikes continue to dominate sales, reflecting their versatility on mixed roads. Electric motorcycles and scooters are gaining traction for short urban trips in Barnstaple and Bideford, although long rural distances still favour petrol for touring. Rider safety is another major focus, with growing uptake of advanced training schemes, airbag vests and cornering ABS. Motorcycle tourism also supports the local economy, with biker-friendly cafés and accommodation along the coast.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle

Match the bike to your licence category and experience, and consider seat height, weight and comfort for the distances you plan to ride. Factor in servicing access, insurance costs and corrosion protection for coastal living. Test ride several models and, if possible, ride on the kind of steep, narrow lanes you will encounter locally.

Final Thoughts

North Devon offers some of the most rewarding riding in the country. Whether you favour the reliability of Honda, the heritage of Triumph or the touring prowess of BMW, choosing the right brand will help you make the most of every coastal curve and moorland climb.