The American motorcycle industry is built on a foundation of craftsmanship, freedom, and iconic design. While global brands often dominate the headlines, the U.S. has produced some of the most respected and beloved motorcycle companies in the world. From heritage cruisers to cutting-edge electric bikes, here are the Top 10 American motorcycle brands that continue to shape the way we ride.
1. Harley-Davidson
No list of American motorcycle brands would be complete without Harley-Davidson. Founded in Milwaukee in 1903, Harley is synonymous with American motorcycling. Known for its heavyweight cruisers and touring bikes, Harley-Davidson represents freedom, rebellion, and long open roads. Its signature V-twin engines, classic styling, and deep rumble have made it a cultural icon.
Beyond tradition, Harley is also moving into the future with models like the LiveWire, its first electric motorcycle. With thousands of dedicated dealerships and riders worldwide, Harley-Davidson continues to dominate the U.S. motorcycle market, both in sales and in spirit.
2. Indian Motorcycle
As America’s first motorcycle company, Indian Motorcycle was founded in 1901 — two years before Harley. Although the brand has seen ups and downs, its 2011 revival under Polaris Industries has sparked a renaissance. Known for powerful cruisers and baggers like the Indian Scout and Challenger, Indian blends old-school charm with modern engineering.
Their bikes are admired for high build quality, excellent performance, and premium technology. Indian also competes in flat track racing and has pushed innovation in the large V-twin cruiser space. It’s now Harley’s biggest domestic rival, giving riders a true American alternative.
3. Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles, based in California, is leading the American electric motorcycle revolution. Founded in 2006, Zero focuses entirely on electric performance bikes. Its models — like the Zero SR/F and DSR/X — offer impressive torque, low maintenance, and high-tech features such as customizable ride modes and smartphone integration.
Zero’s innovation has helped it become the go-to brand for electric motorcycles in the U.S. With an increasing number of cities promoting EV infrastructure, Zero is well-positioned to become a major force in the motorcycle industry’s future.
4. Buell Motorcycles
Founded by former Harley-Davidson engineer Erik Buell, Buell Motorcycles is known for producing performance-oriented sport and street bikes with unique engineering. Originally a subsidiary of Harley, the brand was discontinued in 2009, but has since been revived independently.
Today, Buell focuses on high-performance models such as the Hammerhead 1190, designed for aggressive street and track riding. Buell distinguishes itself with bold design, unconventional thinking, and an American approach to superbike performance. The brand’s return has excited enthusiasts looking for a domestic alternative to European sport bikes.
5. LiveWire
Initially launched as a Harley-Davidson project, LiveWire became its own standalone electric motorcycle brand in 2021. Its flagship bike, the LiveWire ONE, offers exhilarating acceleration, premium tech features, and a stylish design that appeals to both new riders and EV enthusiasts.
LiveWire aims to attract a younger, eco-conscious generation while delivering a thrilling ride experience. Backed by Harley-Davidson’s engineering and dealership network, LiveWire represents a bold new direction for American motorcycling and positions itself as a top-tier player in the electric segment.
6. Arch Motorcycle Company
Co-founded by actor Keanu Reeves and builder Gard Hollinger, Arch Motorcycle specializes in high-end, custom-built motorcycles. The KRGT-1, Arch’s flagship model, is a V-twin performance cruiser handcrafted from premium materials. Arch motorcycles are built to order, making them incredibly exclusive and highly customizable.
This California-based brand combines cutting-edge engineering with artistic craftsmanship, offering motorcycles that are as much works of art as they are machines. Though it operates on a smaller scale, Arch has made a big impact in the world of bespoke American motorcycles.
7. Confederate Motors (Now Curtiss Motorcycles)
Confederate Motors was once known for making aggressive, industrial-styled bikes like the Hellcat and Fighter. Now rebranded as Curtiss Motorcycles, the company has pivoted to electric power and futuristic design.
Based in Alabama, Curtiss is working on models like the Curtiss 1, a high-end electric motorcycle designed to challenge both style norms and performance benchmarks. With a focus on luxury, innovation, and design, Curtiss represents a bold and visionary direction for American motorcycle manufacturing.
8. Janus Motorcycles
Hand-built in Goshen, Indiana, Janus Motorcycles focuses on small-displacement bikes with vintage styling and modern reliability. Their models — including the Halcyon 250 and Gryffin 250 — offer a nostalgic riding experience reminiscent of the early days of motorcycling.
What makes Janus special is its commitment to craftsmanship and simplicity. These bikes are ideal for riders who value authenticity over speed, and who appreciate the feel of a classic motorcycle with a personal touch. Janus bikes are built to order and attract a loyal following for their charm and artistry.
9. Lightning Motorcycles
Lightning Motorcycles is a California-based company building some of the fastest electric motorcycles in the world. Its LS-218 is a record-breaking superbike capable of reaching speeds over 215 mph. Lightning blends aerodynamics, performance, and clean energy in a way few brands can match.
More recently, the Lightning Strike has been introduced as a more affordable sportbike option. With a focus on pushing electric performance to the limit, Lightning is setting benchmarks and proving that American brands can lead in high-speed innovation.
10. Rokon
Rokon stands in a category of its own. Based in New Hampshire, Rokon produces rugged, two-wheel-drive motorcycles designed for off-road and utility use. These bikes are used by hunters, military personnel, and off-road enthusiasts who need to traverse extreme terrain.
The Rokon Trail-Breaker is the brand’s flagship model, known for its tractor-like capabilities. While not built for speed or looks, Rokon motorcycles offer unmatched functionality in remote and demanding environments. Their unique design and utility purpose give them a loyal, niche following in the American market.
FAQs
Q1: What is the oldest American motorcycle brand?
Indian Motorcycle is the oldest, founded in 1901 — two years before Harley-Davidson.
Q2: Are there any American electric motorcycle brands?
Yes, LiveWire, Zero Motorcycles, Lightning, and Curtiss are all American brands focused on electric motorcycles.
Q3: Which American motorcycle brand is best for beginners?
Brands like Janus and Zero offer beginner-friendly models due to their smaller size, lower power output, and manageable riding dynamics.
Q4: Are American motorcycles reliable?
Yes, most American motorcycles are built for durability, especially Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Zero, which have strong reputations for quality and long-term performance.
Conclusion
The American motorcycle landscape is diverse, innovative, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless roar of a Harley, the electric thrill of a Zero, or the hand-built artistry of a Janus, there’s an American brand for every type of rider.
These companies showcase not only mechanical prowess but also the spirit of independence that defines American motorcycling. As technology evolves and rider preferences shift, these brands continue to lead, inspire, and innovate — ensuring the legacy of American motorcycles rides on.