If you’re part of the power sports world, you probably know that riders love to debate the differences between big brands—such as Suzuki and Honda. While all brands certainly have pros and cons, many motorcycle enthusiasts have their favorite, and they often stay loyal to it. But if you’re new to motorcycles, or trying to decide which brand to go with, it can be a little overwhelming. We’re breaking down the basics of Honda motorcycles and Suzuki motorcycles—two greatly respected giants in the motorcycle industry—so you can decide for yourself which brand is right for you.
About Suzuki Motorcycles
Founded in 1909, the Japanese company Suzuki began producing motorcycles nearly fifty years later in 1952. Shortly after and due to the quality of Suzuki motorcycles, they quickly became one of the leaders in the industry, particularly for racing bikes. They went on to dominate the market for 2-stroke engine motorcycles well into the 1970s. Today, Suzuki motorcycles are known around the world as a leader in motorcycle production.
Suzuki motorcycles are generally well known for both their speed and precision on the road. They are incredibly powerful machines, lauded as fast, finely tuned, and supremely precise. For these reasons, the raw strength of a Suzuki can give it a slightly more sporty vibe than some of it’s competitors that may better suit a more casual rider.
Suzuki Motorcycles Models
Suzuki motorcycle reviews are generally positive—after all, you don’t stay popular unless the riders are satisfied with the products. That being said there are a lot of different to choose from when it comes to Suzuki motorcycles, and it helps to learn a little about them. Here’s a quick breakdown of the newest models available from Suzuki right now, by type:
- Eight sportbikes
- Eight cruisers
- Two touring
- Fourteen standard
- Six adventure
- Four dual sport
- One supermoto
- Three motocross
- Three off road
Of these Suzuki motorcycle models, here are some of the most notable examples:
- Suzuki VanVan 200
- Suzuki Hayabusa
- Suzuki GSX250R
- Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
About Honda Motorcycles
Honda, also a Japanese company, was founded in 1946. By 1960, Honda has established itself as the largest producer of motorcycles in the world, and even maintains the title to this day. Honda motorcycles vary greatly, as the company is widely known for producing bikes that would work for any rider’s needs and experience. Honda is also well known for producing unique bikes, making them a pioneer to many in the motorcycle world.
Honda is credited with producing the first super bike, which helped put them in the center of the motorcycle world, a place they have pretty much remained. The primary hallmarks of Honda motorcycles is that they are fast, reliable, comfortable, and suited to all types of riders, depending on the chosen model.
Honda Motorcycles Models
Similarly, Honda hasn’t made such a big name for itself in the motorcycle industry by making below average bikes. Plenty of riders swear by their Honda—as evidenced by the many positive Honda motorcycle reviews—and it’s not hard to see why. Again, there are plenty of makes and models to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of what kinds of bikes they are currently offering.
In street bikes:
- Ten sportbikes
- Eleven cruisers
- Seven touring
- Seven adventure
- Three supersport
- Three dual sport
Off road bikes:
- Four adventure
- Three dual sport
- Eight trail
- Eight competition
Now that you’ve heard the various kinds, let’s go over some popular Honda motorcycles:
- Honda Rebel 300 or 500
- Honda CBR500R
- Honda CRF450R
- Honda Grom
So, Suzuki Motorcycles or Honda Motorcycles?
At the end of then day, when it comes to legendary motorcycle brands like Suzuki and Honda, you really can’t go wrong. Chances are you will end up with a high quality bike—from a company that is at or near the top of the industry. Time and time again, riders love and remain loyal to Suzuki and Honda, whichever it is they ride.
That being said there are a lot factors to consider when choosing a bike beyond which brand to get. Which bike manufacturer to go with is just one of the many, and the answer will depend on all the other variables. The first thing to do is to ask yourself what kind of rider you are and what kind of riding you will be doing. Are you interested in commuting, touring or both? Do you prioritize comfort or speed? Are you very interested in precision? Is there a price range you’re confined to? What kind of weather do you want to be ready for?
Answering these kinds of questions will make selecting a bike—whether it be a Suzuki motorcycle or a Honda motorcycle—that much easier. Once you do that, you can confidently compare specific models from each brand to choose the one that’s perfect for you. Like we said though, with revered companies like these, you most certainly can’t go wrong.
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