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Popular Street Bikes

Shopping for your first street bike can be quite difficult if you have no idea of where to start. You may be familiar with a few different types of bikes, but you could shortchange yourself if you're not considering models that you aren't familiar with but that might be the most appropriate. Even if you have owned a street bike in the past, it may be difficult to keep track of all the makes and models currently on the market and to compare them in order to determine which specific motorcycle is right for you.

Whether you're just considering buying a street bike or whether you're ready to pull the trigger, you'll need to do your homework to ensure you get the most for your money and maximize your consumer satisfaction. One of the best ways to start out is to research the most popular street bike makes and models on the market. The guide below will familiarize you with some well-known and not-so-well-known brands of motorcycles that offer street bike options to consumers like you.

After reading the brief descriptions offered below, narrow down your options to a few that interest you further. After you've come up with a list of viable options for yourself, research the motorcycle manufacturers further by visiting their Web sites, reading consumer reviews, comparing pricing and so on. Finally, decide whether you will purchase a used street bike or a new one and begin to shop around for a reasonable deal on the bike you want.

American Ironhorse

American Ironhorse is mostly known for producing choppers and customs. The Fort-Worth, Texas manufacturer has a reputation for being "high-end," which is also reflected in the price range. American Ironhorse motorcycles cost anywhere from $25,000 to $40,000, though current financial turmoil could soon present the opportunity for negotiation and get you a better deal.

Aprilia

Aprilia has a much wider collection of models under various categories, including off-road and racing bikes. The Italian manufacturer is traditionally known for producing scooters, but has recently earned acclaim by winning sport bike races. Aprilia's street bike collection is about as large as American Ironhorse's, but the price is much lower.

Big Dog

Big Dog is known for it's cruiser-style street bikes and wide range of customizing options. The Wichita, Kansas manufacturer produces five models. Big Dog's street bikes run in the $25,000 range.

BMC

BMC is a smaller motorcycle manufacturer located in Bend, Oregon. The company has earned big attention through its focus on factory customs. Check them out for a DOT-approved street bike that looks totally unique.

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad is the motorcycle division of the German automotive manufacturer BMW. BMW has been producing motorcycles since 1923. Though the company is traditionally known for their original engine configuration, the flat-twin boxer, today's BMW motorcycles include a variety of engine and riding formats.

Bourget's Bike Works

Bourget motorcycles, based in Phoenix, Arizona started out by producing one-of-a-kind bikes in Roger Bourget's garage. The manufacturer is known for its signature oil-in frame/drop seat style chassis, which was actually patented in 1999. The bike maker is known for innovation in motorcycle design and also holds a patent for its jackshaft design.

Buell

Buell Motorcycles was founded by former Harley Davidson engineer Erik Buell. Most Buell bikes contain four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engines, originally built from XR1000 Sportster engines. Many upgrades and performance engineering initiatives have been implemented since then.

Ducati

The Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati is best known for high performance street bikes with large capacity four-stroke L-twin engines featuring a desmodromic valve design. Ducati also uses multiple dry clutches in many of their street bikes, which prevents power loss from oil viscosity drag on the engine.

Honda

The Japanese auto manufacturer Honda has been exporting motorcycles to the United States since the 1960's. Today, Honda's line of street motorcycles and scooters include touring bikes, sport-tourers, cruisers, standard street bikes, sport bikes, dual sports bikes, and scooters.

Indian

The Indian Motorcycle Manufacturing Company was once known as the largest producer of motorcycles in the world. This is perhaps the oldest motorcycle manufacturer in the United States, having been around since 1901. Today's Indian Chief motorcycles are produced in limited quantities so the company can focus on quality, performance and exclusivity. The company, under new management, has growth plans through 2011.

Kawasaki

Kawasaki has been producing motorcycles since 1953. Today, the Japanese manufacturer produces a wide collection of street bikes in the following categories: sport, supersport, touring, supersport touring, cruisers, and dual purpose. Kawasaki is also known for off-road and motocross models. Kawasaki is not really in the custom market but produces a fine factory bike.

KTM

The Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM is most commonly known for its off-road and sport bikes. In recent years, however, it has expanded into production of street motorcycles as well.

Moto Guzzi

The Italian motorcycle manufacturer, also known simply as "Guzzi," is known as the oldest European manufacturer in continuous motorcycle production. Notably, the Italian police and military and various US police departments (e.g. LAPD) have used Moto Guzzi bikes in their fleets. Guzzi currently offers about 9 different models including street bikes and sport bikes.

Suzuki

Suzuki, which is also the 12th largest automobile manufacturer in the world, started manufacturing bikes in 1952. Suzuki's factory models include the legendary Hayabusa, the GSX-R1000, the GSX-R750, the GSX-R600 and the GSX-R650F (which is their newer sport touring model).

Swift

Swift Motorcycle Company is a newer manufacturer, also based in Phoenix, Arizona. The producer of street bikes focuses on custom entry level, mid range, and high-end choppers, bobbers and pro street models.

Yamaha

Though Yamaha produces mainly factory motorcycles, it is possible to get customs through this Japanese bike maker as well. Yamaha's current lineup includes over 26 models priced anywhere between $6000 and $19,000.

Now that you have learned a little bit about the different manufacturers of street bikes, you can drill into the ones you're interested in a bit further to help narrow down your search.

About the Author

For the best deals on pre-owned motorcycles including
used street bikes
, sport bikes, off-road models and customs visit CycleLeeg, the internet's free
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Valve Stem Covers $8.99 Show Chrome Valve Stem Covers Chrome valve stem covers complete the look of any bike Available in two designs; Ribbed or Eagle Sold in pairs

Fort Mountain Bike Long Presta Tube 26 x 1.5-2.0" $5.99 Fort Mountain Bike Long Presta Tube 26 x 1.5-2.0. Mountain bike tube with a long Presta valve.

Tire Valve Stem Puller $7.95 BikeMaster Tire Valve Stem Puller I know you're thinking "What's a valve stem puller?" It is basically a wire guide that pulls the valve stem through the wheel after the tube and tire are mounted - that means no more time fishing for elusive valve stems lost in the tire/wheel abyss. The sweat blood, and tears this simple tool will save is worth every penny. Simply thread the puller through the valve hole in the rim, screw the cap onto the valve stem of the inner tube, seat the tube inside the tire and once the second tire bead is in place, simply pull the valve stem into place. Sleek wire design is lightweight and compact - perfect for on-bike storage compartments or tool kits Easy to use, you will wonder how you survived without it Manufacturer's lifetime warranty

Short Aluminum Valve Stem $10.99 BikeMaster Short Aluminum Valve Stem Trick out you bike with some sweet anodized aluminum valve stems. Made from forged aircraft grade aluminum, these valve stems are lightweight and super strong (plus they are anodized which looks cool!) If you have a cruiser, crotch rocket, sport touring bike or street figher these stems will add some classy bling to you wheels. Beauty with strength and reliability Forged from aircraft grade aluminum Anodized for corrosion protection and bling factor Fitted with high quality valves Available in?Black, Silver, Titanium, Red and Blue Sold in pairs Sizes: 11.3mm fits most? Japanese bikes 8.3mm fits most European bikes

Trick Topz Bullet Valve Cap $4.99 Trick Topz Bullet Valve Cap. Novelty cap for Presta valve.

CamelBak Big Bite Valve $5.99 CamelBak Big Bite Valve. The CamelBak Big Bite Valve, for more fluid flow.

Topeak Presta Valve Extender $5.99 Topeak Presta Valve Extender. Deep-section rims are great for aerodynamics, but they're not compatible with the short valves found on standard tubes and tubular tires. The Topeak valve extender adds length to short valves, so you'll never find yourself stuck by the roadside with a flat and a replacement tube you can't inflate. The 43mm long Topeak Presta valve extender is precision-machined from aircraft aluminum and screws onto the tube's original valve, providing enough additional length to clear your aero rim and engage your pump's chuck. A rod inside the valve extender screws onto the original valve's lock nut, allowing you to close the valve to prevent accidental air leakage. Throw a Topeak valve extender in your saddle wedge or Cycling Jersey pocket and you and your riding buds will be good to go no matter what.

Trick Topz Dize Valve Cap $4.99 Trick Topz Dize Valve Cap. Novelty cap for Schrader valves.

Trick Topz Rocket Valve Cap $4.99 Trick Topz Rocket Valve Cap. Novelty cap for Presta valves.

Trick Topz Skull Valve Cap $4.99 Trick Topz Skull Valve Cap. Novelty cap for Schrader valves.

Valve Shim Kit $59.95 Hot Cams Valve Shim Kit Sick of taking your bike to a expensive mechanic to have them shim your valves just because you don’t have the correct shims to do it yourself? Here is the answer, Hot Cams Valve Shim Kit. Each kit includes three 9.48mm OD shims in each size from 1.20mm to 3.50mm in .05mm increments for 450’s, and three 7.48mm OD shims in each size from 1.20mm to 3.50mm in .05mm increments for 250f’s. 8.90mm OD shims in each size from 1.72mm to 2.60mm in .04mm increments 9.48mm OD shims kit works in all the major Japanese brand 450cc four strokes with direct-acting cams 7.48mm OD shims kit works in all the major Japanese brand 250cc four strokes with direct-acting cams 8.90mm OD shims kit fits all KTM dual-cam machines

Trick Topz Smiley Valve Cap Schrader $4.99 Trick Topz Smiley Valve Cap Schrader. Novelty cap for Schrader valves.

Fort Light Extra Long Valve Presta Road Tube 700X19-26 $9.99 Fort Light Extra Long Valve Presta Road Tube 700X19-26. Minimize the rolling weight of your aero wheels without sacrificing performance or convenience. Extra long, 80mm valve doesn't require extenders.

Bike & Rider $9.99 Metal Mulisha?Bike & Rider 1-12 to 1:18 scale bike with rider Real rider graphics, authentic motocross helmet Bike stand, real rider gear graphics, rear working suspension **Closeouts are limited to stock on hand**

Motorcycle Bike Silver Bling Bling Earrings $19.95 Motorcycle Bike Silver Bling Bling Earrings

Motorcycle Bike Silver Iced Out Buckle $79.95 Motorcycle Bike Silver Iced Out Buckle

Bike Kit $16.99 Answer Racing Bike Kit The perfect Answer decal set for any bike Includes: front fender, fork tubes, fork tube specs, swingarm, and rear fender decals

Fort Road UltraLight Long Valve Presta Tube 700c x 19-26 $8.99 Fort Road UltraLight Long Valve Presta Tube 700c x 19-26. Keep your rotating weight to a minimum with lightweight butyl Presta road tubes!

Novel Blue Color Bike Motorcycle Car Flash Valve Sealing Cap Wheel LED Flashlight $1.84 - The valve caps will be lighted and flashed when your car is moving ; when you stop driving ,the built-in sensors will stop the lights automatically - Increases visibility during nighttime and bad weather - You can screw the flash car light onto the valve stem of your car, bicycles or motorcycle in seconds - Easy to install, just simply take off the old valve and replace it on your car - Bring your car blue color and enjoyment - Powered by 3 x button battery (included) - Material: plastic and metal ?

Novel White Color Bike Motorcycle Car Flash Valve Sealing Cap Wheel LED Flashlight $1.84 - The valve caps will be lighted and flashed when your car is moving ; when you stop driving ,the built-in sensors will stop the lights automatically - Increases visibility during nighttime and bad weather - You can screw the flash car light onto the valve stem of your car, bicycles or motorcycle in seconds - Easy to install, just simply take off the old valve and replace it on your car - Bring your car blue color and enjoyment - Powered by 3 x button battery (included) - Material: plastic and metal?

Bike Spray $8.95 Muc-Off Bike Spray Protect, preserve and freshen your bike with Muc-Off Bike Spray's incredible water dispersing action. Muc-Off Bike Spray has a high oil content so is a prefect 'all over' after-wash corrosion inhibitor. It drives out moisture and leaves a sparkling non-sticky protective layer on frame, drive chain, metal parts, plastics, rubber and paintwork. High Performance water dispersing "Protect & Lube" maintenance spray Incredible water dispersing action Contains PTFE to prevent dirt adhesion Leaves a sparkling non sticky film Protect, preserve and freshen your bike Reduce future maintenance time as well as helping reduce friction, wear and energy consumption California Air Regulatory Board Compliant

Standard Motorcycle Cover $38.99 CoverMax Standard Motorcycle Cover Lightweight all weather water resistant cover Air vents with Velcro closures Reinforced grommets sewn into cover Elasticized bottom for snug fit Includes storage bag Wait for bike to cool before applying cover Sizing: Sport Bike = Large Touring Bike = X-Large

Bike Night Boots $99.99 Vega Bike Night Boots Leave the moonboot look to the astronauts. The Vega Bike Night Boots are the perfect choice for those urban commutes where the ride is more about the destination. These lightweight motorcycle boots offer leather construction for abrasion resistance, yet remain comfortable and stylish for those times when you're off the bike. Features: Lightweight crossover leather street/casual boot, 7-1/2" height Reinforced heel and sturdy toe box Padded tongue and collar Side zip with gusset for easy on/off Hook/loop leather strap provides additional stability Sturdy rubber sole and reinforced shift guard

KT-9666 Pit Bike Tire $23.99 Kings KT-9666 Pit Bike Tire Excellent pit bike race tire Designed for use in soft terrain conditions Super aggressive pattern for mini’s

Motion Activated LED Wheel Tyre Flash Valve Sealing Cap for Bike Bicycle(1-Pack) $2.59 - Flash wheel light for motorcycle / bike - Automatically on when the wheel runs; off when the wheel stops running - Easy to install, twist off your original valve cap, and replace with our valve cap LED light - Battery included - 1-pack,The color may be vary between shipment ?

Bike Cleaner $10.95 Muc-Off Bike Cleaner The unique Muc-Off Nano Tech cleaning formula makes life easy, regardless of the weather conditions or time of year. Muc-Off Nano Tech Cleaner has an incredibly effective cleaning formula containing “Nano Technology” that also cares for your bike’s delicate finishes. It contains no harmful acids, CFC’s or solvents, is NONTOXIC and fully biodegradable. It’s completely safe on anodising, paintwork, chrome, carbon fibre, suspension seals, rubber, disc brake pads and more importantly to the user too! It cuts through dirt, oil and grime quickly and safely leaving your bike sparkling clean. Make life easy, try Muc-Off Nano Tech Cleaner after your next dirty ride!

Bike Week Logo with a Motorcycle and Vibrant Flames $29.99 Bike Week Logo with a Motorcycle and Vibrant Flames - Photographic Print

Hurricane AfterShock Shock Pump $34.99 Hurricane AfterShock Shock Pump. So the valve on your suspension fork doesn't feel quite right? Keep your front and rear shocks performing their best with this high pressure, suspension Mountain Bike shock pump.

Bike Pit $38.99 Comfort In Action Bike Pit Windproof necker, 360? of guaranteed windproof protection thanks to the Windstopper? 3 layer fabric that covers the face, neck and chest area. Back part in warm and cozy fleece. The windproof and highly breathable ultra thin Windstopper? membrane is laminated between two fabrics. It prevents wind from cooling the body by creating a layer of warm, dry air next to the skin, whilst no impeding natural perspiration. Windstopper? membranes not only block the wind-chill factor when riding at any speed, but they are also absolutely breathable while performing. Features: Pull-over 1-piece tube design extends to upper-chest Protects lower face, neck and upper-chest from the cold wind Gore Windstopper fleece eliminates wind chill Water-resistant, and weather material 1 size fits most **Closeouts are limited to stock on hand**

W Multi Bike-to-Bike Communication Wire for N-Com Devices $51.99 Nolan?W Multi Bike-to-Bike Communication Wire for N-Com Devices Nolan's N-COM system allows the freedom to talk on a mobile phone, listen to music on an MP3 player, get directions from a GPS navigation system, connect to a bike-to-bike radio, connect to some bikes' existing audio systems or talk to a passenger via intercom Bike-to-bike multimedia wire "K" includes push-to-talk button and connects to ?Alan 777, K1 and 421 and Midland G5

Valve Cores $1.95 Slime Valve Cores Replacement valve cores Sold in a 4-pack

Universal Rear Sport Bike Stand $71.99 Motorsport Products Universal Rear Sport Bike Stand This Universal Sport Bike Rear Stand is heavy duty and adjustable in order to fit most sportbikes. Dual-arms made from heavy-duty steel tubing provide strength for the largest of sportbikes and increase durability. This rear stand is sturdy and?stabile assuring that your performance motorcycle is secure. Wide frame design ensures stability while bike is lifted, moved or sitting on the stand Stand width is adjustable from 8-3/4" to 13-3/4" allowing fitment of most sport bikes Unique design allows the easy, safe lifting of the rear of the sport bike with or with out spools incorporated Rubber padding protects from scratching Four durable 4" wheels support the heaviest of street bikes and give smooth operation Made in the U.S.A. with 1-1/2" steel tubing Sleek black powder coat finish

Tire Valve Repair Tool $5.95 BikeMaster Tire Valve Repair Tool Out on the trail or the street, the BikeMaster Tire Valve Repair Tool is a handy tool for changing out tubes or tires on your motorcycle or ATV. Cleans internal and external valve stem threads and remove valve cores Manufacturer's lifetime warranty

Stan's No Tubes Tire Sealant Standard/UST Tubeless System $63.99 Stan's No Tubes Tire Sealant Standard/UST Tubeless System. Stan's No Tubes Standard Tubeless System takes the difficulty out of converting standard mountain bike rims and tires into a tubeless system. This conversion can save between 100 and 400g of rotating weight, and allow lower tire pressures and better traction. All without the increased risk of pinch flats. The tire and rim sealant can be used to seal punctures and slow leaks, holding air for longer periods of time without incident. This kit will fit most standard 26 mountain bike rims. Rim strips feature Presta valve stems.

Motorcycle $31 A highly-illustrated account of the history, design and culture of the motorbike, Motorcycle is essential reading for the Harley-Davidson roadhog, bike collector, or anyone who's felt the power of the unmistakable king of the road.

Sport Bike Sound System $249.95 Cycle Sounds Sport Bike Sound System Speakers for your sport bike that look and sound great Works on any sport bike application with front fairing Flex Disc mounts allow you to mount speakers on the inside of the windscreen for a stealth look, no need for cutting holes or big bulky mounts and clamps All Cycle SoundsTM speakers are water/weatherproof, heat/vibration resistant and UV protected System includes: 1 pr lightweight 2" bullet speakers, mini high powered amp with 3.5mm jack, MP3 mount and all wires and connectors to complete the installation Works great with any MP3/MP4 player, GPS, iPod, iPhone, radar detector etc.

Step-Up Bike Stand $76.99 FMF Step-Up Bike Stand Don’t throw your bike on any old stand - this one is as trick as they come Lightweight, cast-aluminum construction means stand will not bend or flex, even in the toughest conditions Rubber-topped bike platform is adjustable so you can rotate it to the desired position Stand extends from 12.5” up to 16” so you can use it on everything from minis to the big four-strokes All finishes are plated or powder-coated for lasting durability Can be quickly assembled or disassembled for cleaning or storage

Duo Bike Maintenance Pack $19.95 Muc-Off Duo Bike Maintenance Pack Unique Muc-Off Nano Tech cleaning formula makes life easy, regardless of the weather conditions or time of year. Muc-Off Nano Tech Cleaner has an incredibly effective cleaning formula containing “Nano Technology” that also cares for your bike’s delicate finishes. It contains no harmful acids, CFC’s or solvents, is NONTOXIC and fully biodegradable. It’s completely safe on anodising, paintwork, chrome, carbon fiber, suspension seals, rubber, disc brake pads and more importantly to the user too! It cuts through dirt, oil and grime quickly and safely leaving your bike sparkling clean. Make life easy, try Muc-Off Nano Tech Cleaner after your next dirty ride! Kit contents: 1 x 1Ltr Muc-Off Biodegradable Bike Cleaner 1 x 500ml Bike Spray

Metal Mulisha Bike Stand $89.99 MSR Racing Metal Mulisha Bike Stand Designed for extreme durability Made of high quality aircraft aluminum Frame constructed from 1" round tubing Arched frame for stability on uneven ground Decal panels allow access to the tool tray and bike's oil drain bolt Heavy-duty aluminum top with a large oil drain hole Extra thick, oil and gas resistant top rubber pad Measures 17” tall

Valve Stem Grommets $4.95 Bolt Motorcycle Hardware Valve Stem Grommets Durable rubber grommets are contoured to seal tightly around valve stems Seal out dirt and moisture which can cause friction, corrosion and flats Set includes four grommets and four black plastic valve stem covers