Top 10 Best Motorcycle Brands in South Hams

Why South Hams Is a Rider's Paradise

South Hams is a district that seems purpose-built for motorcycling. The A379 sweeps between Kingsbridge, Modbury and Dartmouth, the A38 offers fast access towards Plymouth and Exeter, and the fringes of Dartmoor above Ivybridge serve up open moorland roads with long sightlines. At the same time, narrow high-hedged lanes, steep estuary hills, salt-laden coastal air and changeable Devon weather place real demands on a machine. Choosing the right brand is about more than badge appeal. It means thinking about build quality, corrosion resistance, after-sales support across the South West and how a bike copes with everything from a summer blast to Start Point to a damp January commute into Plymouth.

Our ranking weighs reliability records, the strength of dealer networks within reach of the district, model range breadth, resale values and the riding experience that suits local roads. Here are the ten motorcycle brands that South Hams riders consistently rate most highly.

The Top 10 Motorcycle Brands for South Hams Riders

1. Triumph

Britain's best-known motorcycle manufacturer tops our list for good reason. Triumph's range spans the retro Bonneville family, the agile Trident and Street Triple roadsters, and the go-anywhere Tiger adventure bikes that thrive on Dartmoor's rougher tracks. Build quality has improved dramatically over the past two decades, and the brand's strong residual values make ownership costs easier to manage. For many local riders, a Triumph simply feels right on English B-roads.

2. Honda

Honda's reputation for bulletproof reliability makes it a natural choice for riders who use their bikes year-round. The CB500 and NC750X models are popular commuter and learner-friendly machines, while the Africa Twin has become a favourite for touring the South West peninsula. Honda's DCT automatic gearbox option is especially welcome on the stop-start hill climbs into Dartmouth and Salcombe.

3. Yamaha

Yamaha's MT series has redefined the naked bike segment with punchy engines and accessible pricing. The Tracer 9 GT is an excellent sports-tourer for riders heading out along the coast, and the Ténéré 700 has earned cult status among adventure enthusiasts. Yamaha's scooters, such as the NMAX and XMAX, are also practical choices for navigating Totnes during busy summer weekends.

4. BMW Motorrad

For long-distance comfort and premium technology, BMW Motorrad remains the benchmark. The R 1300 GS is arguably the definitive adventure tourer, with heated grips, adaptive suspension and luggage systems that make multi-day trips to Cornwall effortless. Riders value BMW's safety electronics, including cornering ABS and traction control, on slippery autumn lanes covered in leaves and farm mud.

5. Kawasaki

Kawasaki offers outstanding value across its range. The Z900 and Z650 deliver thrilling performance without punishing running costs, and the Versys 650 is a quietly brilliant all-rounder. The Ninja family appeals to sportier riders, while Kawasaki's long-standing durability means many examples rack up impressive mileages with straightforward maintenance.

6. Ducati

Ducati brings Italian passion to the Devon countryside. The Multistrada V4 combines superbike pedigree with genuine touring ability, while the Scrambler range offers stylish, approachable machines for weekend rides to Bigbury-on-Sea. Modern Ducatis feature much longer service intervals than older models, which has broadened their appeal to everyday riders.

7. Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield has enjoyed remarkable growth in the UK thanks to models such as the Interceptor 650, Classic 350 and Himalayan. Simple, characterful and affordable, these bikes suit the relaxed pace of rural South Hams roads perfectly. They are also ideal for newer riders progressing from an A2 licence who want classic looks without classic headaches.

8. KTM

Austrian manufacturer KTM is the go-to choice for riders who prioritise performance and off-road ability. The 390 Duke is a lively entry point, the 890 Adventure handles green lanes with ease, and the Super Duke range is among the most exhilarating naked bikes available. KTM's lightweight engineering makes its bikes nimble on tight, twisting lanes.

9. Suzuki

Suzuki has a loyal following built on dependable engineering and sensible pricing. The V-Strom 800DE and 1050 are capable adventure tourers, the GSX-8S is a refreshing middleweight naked, and the Hayabusa remains an icon. Suzuki machines are known for being easy to live with and relatively inexpensive to maintain.

10. Harley-Davidson

Rounding out the list is Harley-Davidson, the definitive cruiser brand. Models such as the Street Glide and Fat Boy deliver unmistakable style and torque-rich engines for unhurried coastal cruising. The Pan America adventure bike has also broadened the brand's appeal to riders who want to explore beyond the tarmac.

Key Trends Shaping Motorcycling in South Hams

Several trends are influencing local buying decisions. Adventure and crossover bikes continue to dominate sales because they handle broken rural surfaces comfortably. Electric motorcycles from brands such as Zero and Energica are gaining interest among riders making short trips between Totnes and Dartington, although charging infrastructure in the more remote coastal villages is still developing. Rider aids such as cornering ABS, quickshifters and TFT connectivity have filtered down to mid-range models, improving safety on unpredictable Devon roads. Finally, the strong classic scene means retro-styled bikes from Triumph and Royal Enfield remain highly desirable.

How to Choose the Right Brand for You

Start by being honest about how you will ride. Commuters into Plymouth should prioritise fuel economy, weather protection and reliability. Touring riders will value comfort, luggage options and range, while weekend enthusiasts may favour agility and character. Consider dealer proximity for servicing and warranty work, as well as the availability of parts. Test rides are invaluable, especially on roads similar to those you will use daily. Finally, factor in insurance groups, servicing intervals and corrosion protection, because coastal salt air can be tough on fasteners and exposed components.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are drawn to the British heritage of Triumph, the dependable engineering of Honda or the adventurous spirit of KTM, South Hams offers a spectacular backdrop for every style of riding. Each of these ten brands brings something distinctive to the table, and the best choice is the one that matches your riding habits, budget and ambitions. Take your time, ride a few contenders on local lanes and you will find a motorcycle that makes every journey through this beautiful corner of Devon unforgettable.