Honda
Honda

The Global Motorcycle Industry

The global motorcycle industry has reached a historic milestone in 2025, achieving record-breaking sales that surpass previous peaks, including the 2018 high and the recovery from the 2020 downturn. The market has grown substantially, with total worldwide motorcycle sales reaching approximately 61.8 million units, reflecting a 2.7% year-over-year increase. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand in emerging markets such as India, Latin America, and parts of Europe.

The motorcycle industry is currently dominated by manufacturers from India, Japan, China, and Mexico, with Indian companies claiming five out of the top ten spots. Meanwhile, Japan continues to exert influence through its three powerhouse brands: Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki. Notably, Yadea, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) specialist, and Italika, a Mexican manufacturer, are gaining traction worldwide.

1. Honda - The Undisputed Leader

  • Sales in 2025: 19.4 million units (+6.0%)

  • Market Share: 32%

  • Fastest Growing Markets: Bosnia (+127.9%), Albania (+112%), Ukraine (+100.8%)

  • Strengths: Innovation, Reliability, Global Presence

Honda has been the world's top-selling motorcycle brand for over 50 years. The Japanese giant has continued to dominate in 2025, increasing its market share to 32%. Honda's success lies in its ability to innovate while maintaining affordability and reliability. Its lineup spans from budget-friendly commuter bikes to high-performance motorcycles and scooters, catering to both urban and rural markets. The rapid adoption of Honda's fuel-efficient and hybrid models in developing nations has been a major factor in its sustained growth.

2. Hero MotoCorp - India’s Champion

  • Sales in 2025: 5.9 million units (+6.9%)

  • Fastest Growing Markets: Costa Rica (+184%), Nigeria (+184%), Sri Lanka (+54.3%)

  • Strengths: Affordable Commuter Bikes, Extensive Dealer Network, Strong Brand Loyalty

Hero MotoCorp, the largest motorcycle manufacturer in India, has retained its second-place position globally. Its success is built on fuel-efficient, budget-friendly motorcycles, which are particularly popular in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Hero’s strong expansion in markets such as Costa Rica and Nigeria indicates growing global demand for its products.

3. Yamaha - Performance and Versatility

  • Sales in 2025: 4.6 million units (+4.2%)

  • Fastest Growing Markets: Mongolia (+268.9%), Turkey (+87.3%), Romania (+86.9%)

  • Strengths: Racing Heritage, High-Performance Models, Strong Aftermarket Support

Yamaha has a well-balanced presence in both the commuter and performance motorcycle segments. Its reputation for durability, performance, and innovation continues to drive demand, particularly in developing countries and regions with increasing motorcycling culture, such as Mongolia, Turkey, and Romania.

4. Yadea - Electric Vehicle (EV) Innovator

  • Sales in 2025: 4.3 million units (-13.0%)

  • Fastest Growing Markets: Cambodia, Pakistan, Moldova

  • Strengths: Leading EV Manufacturer, Government Incentives, Sustainability Focus

Yadea, China's premier electric motorcycle brand, has maintained a strong global presence despite a 13% decline in sales. With governments worldwide promoting EV adoption, Yadea remains a market leader in countries that are rapidly transitioning toward sustainable transport solutions. Its focus on affordability and cutting-edge battery technology keeps it competitive.

5. TVS Motor - Expanding Beyond India

  • Sales in 2025: 3.7 million units (+12.6%)

  • Fastest Growing Markets: Sri Lanka, Germany, Ukraine

  • Strengths: Innovation, Strong Export Growth, Affordable Pricing

TVS Motor has seen a 12.6% increase in sales, making it one of the fastest-growing brands. The company has been aggressively expanding into European and South Asian markets, benefiting from increasing demand for affordable, fuel-efficient motorcycles. TVS’s Apache series remains a favorite among sportbike enthusiasts.

6. Bajaj Auto - A Global Contender

  • Sales in 2025: 3.1 million units (+9.3%)

  • Fastest Growing Markets: South Africa (+227%), Brazil (+168%), Nigeria (+76.5%)

  • Strengths: Strong Export Strategy, Partnership with KTM, Competitive Pricing

Bajaj Auto has been highly successful in emerging markets, particularly Africa and South America, where demand for durable and fuel-efficient motorcycles is growing. Bajaj's strategic alliances, such as its collaboration with KTM, have also played a key role in expanding its global footprint.

7. Suzuki - Dependability and Adventure

  • Sales in 2025: 2.0 million units (+6.1%)

  • Strengths: Strong Brand Image, Reliable Performance, Balanced Portfolio

Suzuki, though not as dominant as Honda or Yamaha, maintains a strong customer base thanks to its adventure, commuter, and sportbike offerings. Its V-Strom series remains highly popular among adventure riders worldwide.

8. Italika - Mexico’s Rising Star

  • Sales in 2025: 1.3 million units (+35.8%)

  • Strengths: Low-Cost Production, Strong Latin American Presence

Italika, a Mexican brand, has experienced explosive growth in Latin America, thanks to its affordable, no-frills motorcycles. Its success is largely due to its cost-efficient production model and its vast dealer network in Mexico and surrounding countries.

9. Zongshen - China’s Resilient Manufacturer

  • Sales in 2025: 1.0 million units (+3.4%)

  • Strengths: Innovation in Hybrid & Electric Bikes, Competitive Pricing

Zongshen continues to maintain a strong presence in China and Southeast Asia. The company is investing heavily in electric and hybrid technology, making it a potential future leader in the evolving EV market.

10. Royal Enfield - Timeless Appeal

  • Sales in 2025: 948,000 units (+5.1%)

  • Strengths: Classic Design, Premium Heritage, Strong Brand Loyalty

Royal Enfield remains one of the most iconic motorcycle brands globally, thanks to its retro-styled models. Its Meteor and Himalayan series have been particularly successful, attracting both adventure riders and those seeking classic-styled motorcycles.

Conclusion

The 2025 motorcycle market highlights a shift toward affordability, fuel efficiency, and electrification, with Indian manufacturers leading the industry. As consumer preferences evolve, brands that embrace sustainability and technological advancements will continue to thrive. The next decade promises further growth and innovation, making motorcycling an exciting industry to watch.

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