# The Best Motorcycles for Holding Value Over Time
Motorcycle depreciation varies wildly across brands and models, but certain machines consistently defy the typical value curve. A fresh analysis of 2021-model motorcycles reveals which bikes buyers should prioritize if resale value matters.
The depreciation math on motorcycles differs sharply from cars. Bikes with strong brand heritage, proven reliability, and enthusiast demand tend to hold 60-70 percent of their purchase price after five years. That's substantially better than most automobiles. Premium Japanese and European brands typically outperform American and lesser-known manufacturers in the used market.
Harley-Davidson models anchor the resale value conversation in cruiser territory. The Milwaukee brand's iconic status and massive aftermarket ecosystem keep used bike prices elevated. Buyers paying $18,000 for a new Street 750 or Iron 883 can expect to recover roughly $11,000-$13,000 in a secondary sale. The cult following around Harley ownership creates sustained demand that buckets the brand ahead of competitors like Indian Motorcycle and Victory.
Kawasaki's Ninja 400 and Ninja 650 represent the value-retention sweet spot in middleweight sportbikes. These bikes deliver accessible performance without breaking budgets, and they attract learners and budget-conscious riders who fuel used-market demand. A 2021 Ninja 650 retails for approximately $7,600 new and typically sells used for $5,200-$5,800 after several years. That 70-percent retention beats nearly everything in that displacement class.
Ducati's Monster series and Panigale sportbikes command premium resale premiums. The brand's racing heritage and distinctive Italian engineering create collector appeal. A used Panigale V4 from 2021 maintains 65-70 percent of its original $18,995 list price, positioning it ahead of Japanese competitors despite higher service costs.
BMW's adventure-touring models, particularly the GS series, exhibit remarkable staying power. The F 850 GS and F 750 GS target touring enthusiasts who value reliability and long-distance capability. These bikes retain 65-75 percent of their initial value because the used market actively seeks adventure platforms with proven longevity.
Honda's CB500X and CB500F models round out the list as accessibility leaders. Honda's brand reputation for reliability engineering extends to motorcycles with the same force it carries in automotive circles. A 2021 CB500F priced at $6,699 new recovers approximately $4,700-$4,900 on the used market, making it among the safest depreciation bets for casual riders.
Yamaha's MT-07 and Tracer 700 series similarly benefit from the brand's reputation for bulletproof engines and accessible ergonomics. These middleweight nakeds target commuters and weekend riders, generating strong secondary-market liquidity.
The resale value hierarchy reflects buyer priorities. Bikes that solve real problems, cost less to maintain, carry brand prestige, or attract multiple buyer demographics hold value better. Purchasing one of these thirteen models substantially reduces the financial hit when it comes time to upgrade or sell. Conversely, boutique brands, outlandish color schemes, and heavily modified machines typically depreciate faster because they appeal to narrower audiences and require specialized service knowledge from buyers.