Beloved for their stripped-down race appearance and timeless style, cafe racers are still popular today, but maybe not quite as popular as they had been a few years ago!

Originally ridden by the speed-loving youth of the early 60’s, Cafe Racers are still very much around, but in many different interpretations such as classic, modern or even neo-classic. The retro motorcycle scene is still booming... though we have seen a decline in Cafe Racer options in recent years, with more in favour of retro nakeds and scramblers. There are still some purpose-designed cafe racers options available, and also a few other options which, admittedly, the term Cafe Racer is more loosely assigned, or even might require some creative modifications to help give it the Cafe Racer look

In this article, I’ll take you through a selection of 10 great options, to see what tickles your fancy…

First up in tenth place is the Norton V4CR, notoriously known for its co partner V4SV, but imagine perfecting that model…then you’ve got yourself the V4CR!

It’s got a stripped back design creating a modernised yet rugged retro vibe, you can now see the aluminium frame and titanium exhaust, whilst its short and compact body creates an aggressive racer style. 

Powered up by the liquid-cooled 1200cc V4 engine it produces 185bhp and 125 Nm of torque it's ready to race. Fitted with some of the best modern parts such as adjustable front and rear suspension, Brembo brakes and sophisticated lean-angle traction control to ensure safety at all times, also paired with the three engine modes, wet, road and sport. This really is a high premium, high-spec’d option.

For me, the only downfall has to be the ultra -premium price tag, at £42,000. It's definitely not the cheapest out there however if you’re after top performance and you’ve got the budget, why not - lets not forget the high spec, exclusivity of this model, from a brand such as Norton.

Next up is the timeless icon, the limited edition Langen Two stroke. This sleek, futuristic bike comes with a blend of bespoke craftsmanship and classic racing, offering a unique riding experience. Powered up by a 250cc liquid cooled engine, 76hp it’s got a reasonable amount of performance.

Its handcrafted aluminium frame makes for the best handling and agility, whilst its quality suspension and Brembo brakes provide you with precise control and ultimate stopping power.

 This bike is a stand out option if you’re looking for something lightweight, quick and efficient to manoeuvre, with its crazy low a weight of just 120kg thanks to its premium materials, it’s an easy and fun ride, and of course comes with an unmistakable look and top performance.

 There will be plenty of people that will full in love with the Langen Two-Stroke for its beautiful design, but throw in the insane low weight, and the fact that it has a 2-stroke liquid cooled motor pumping out 76hp, this will answer many people’d prayers in a world of ultra-efficient 4-strokes.  

Moving onto the price side of things, the Two Stroke comes in at £29,400 which is a pretty daring price, however all you’ve got to do is take a look at it, see that spec and exclusivity and you can see why. 

8. Ducati Scrambler Nightshift | Price: £11,195

In at eight is the Ducati Scrambler Nightshift, this one has the sleek retro vibes with its road racing performance. It's got the classic flat handlebar, sophisticated

bar-end mirrors and a new cafe racer style flat seat to fit the aesthetic. The full black spoked wheels as well as the sporty front fender also give it its cafe racer attitude. 

The Scrambler night shift has a new lighter frame meaning better handling and a more agile ride. It's equipped with lots of features making it a lot safer than the previous model, the Bosch cornering ABS, traction control and two riding modes allow you to feel safe at all points of your journey. Adding to these features, it’s also got some good tech, with the TFT digital display giving the bike its modern classic styling alongside the quick shift accessory and smartphone connectivity. 

Overall, this is a sleek, eye-catching and quality option. The starting price comes in at £11,195, which makes this such a stand out option in my eyes. 

Stepping it up at seven is the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa, inspired by Moto Guzzi’s legendary racing history. And it has the classic, sporty racer look thanks to its styling with two tone livery in red and silver combined with bold fairing and the two seater racing saddle which also comes with the option of an additional single seat cover accessory, for an even sportier look.

This ones powered by a 853cc 90 degree transverse V engine, and produces 64hp…it’s definitely got that racing spirit, and, with the dual channel ABS and traction control you are in for safe and efficient stopping. 

The V7 Stone Corsa has the ideal blend of contemporary and technology with high handlebars paired with bar end handlebar mirrors and the minimalist LCD clock display. The special edition badge on the handlebar riser also adds a nice touch. To top this all off, the price tag on this one is £8,450, ideal for those who are after a smart, racer vibe with the right amount of punch, that’s not going to break the bank. 

The updated Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 takes sixth place today, with its classic styling taking inspiration from the motorcycling era of the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s. Its alloy wheels, paired with a sculpted tank and tucked riding position make this a stand out racer. 

The GT 650 has a 648cc parallel twin cylinder engine, followed up by an air/oil cooled parallel twin configuration and produces 47hp. It's a durable bike with balanced handling, twin shock suspension and dual channel ABS braking. 

With multiple colour options to choose from, the GT 650 is a reasonable option, and if you’re not too fussed by top tech and spec, for £6,799 this one could be the one for you. 

Taking its design inspiration from Swedish heritage, the Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 is a very capable and modernised bike, the striking, bold graphics and colours enhance its sporty vibe. It’s fair to say this isn’t one for those of you looking for a classically styled Cafe Racer!

It’s got all the punch with its 800cc parallel twin engine, producing 105hp whilst also having adjustable premium WP suspension and a choice of four ride modes. The Bosch ABS system is switchable to Supermoto ABS making for optimal stopping and advanced riding. 

Moving onto the tech side of things, it’s a seamless and effortless ride due to its five inch TFT dash, to showcase all important information when riding and is controlled by handlebar switches. The smartphone connectivity feature also comes in handy for taking and receiving calls, playing music and controllability of the Ride Husqvarna app through the use of your handlebars when riding for added safety.

The base price of this one is £9,999 which i personally think is impressive considering the tech, spec and capability of this bike. 

Just missing out on the top three is the BMW R 12 S, this feels like a true cafe racer vibe with its shapes and colours from the ultimate racing bike of the 1970’s. Mixed up with modern technology, spec and comfort to make it the perfect option for today. It's based on the R 12 NineT so you’re in for an unforgettable ride. 

It’s got ABS pro, DTC and three riding modes including rain, road and dynamic to suit and support you. Alongside this you have a  few features to help you maintain an effortless ride, with shift assistant pro hill start and heated hand grips in the colder months.  

Overall, the R 12 S offers you that true cafe racer style with its 1,170-cc boxer engine producing 109 hp for a speedy, yet smooth ride. 

As you’re probably thinking, this bike will come with a more premium price tag, and you’d be correct. You can now pre-order one of these for £18,460. For a trusty BMW, though, can you complain?

Hitting off our top three is the Bonneville T120, bringing heritage and performance with its original silhouette and style of the Bonneville but with a sleek, modern finish. This one is lighter, has better handling and is more responsive. Crafted with all the classic details you’d expect, and sticking with the true Bonneville classic style. 

Powered by a 1200cc parallel twin engine it delivers 79hp and 105 nm of torque for and a smooth yet responsive throttle. It saves its weight thanks to the lighter wheels and Brembo brakes making it more agile. Its advanced spec and electrical features to ensure you feel safe and at ease on the roads with the T120. It offers advanced ABS, riding modes, switchable traction control and cruise control. 

Now onto the price side of things, you can get your hands on one of these for £11,995. It is a retro styled bike and I think it earns its place with all the other top quality spec, matched with its true Triumph heritage, however, this one, as standard is a classic naked bike, and to get that true authentic Cafe Racer look, you’ll be spending some extra cash on modifications and accessories...

Just missing out on first place is the kawasaki Z900 RS. 

Inspired by the legendary Z1 of the 1970s, the Z900RS pays homage to its heritage with teardrop tank lines, a round LED headlight, and classic analog style gauges. But don’t let the vintage look fool you, because it's powered by a 948cc inline four-stroke, liquid-cooled engine. It delivers smooth, punchy acceleration, and it’s a ride that easily outpaces many of its retro rivals. 

The Z900RS is comfortable for everyday riding with its overall lightweight frame, making for natural handling. You’re in safe hands here, thanks to its rider support technologies, traction control, and ABS for a safe and enjoyable riding experience. It’s aggressive enough for twisty trails, and undeniably stylish to turn those heads, there’s not much not to love! 

For you cafe racer lovers who want a modern ride wrapped in nostalgic appeal, the Z900RS is a standout. You can grab one of these for the starting price of £11,699. 

Taking the crown as our number one cafe racer for 2025 is the Yamaha XSR 900 GP, with a distinctive design inspired by the 1980’s gold prix racer, but just with all the latest tech. It’s an agile ride with its 890cc CP3 engine, producing 117hp and combining this with its added aerodynamic effect and sporty riding position thanks to the deltabox frame and many other features, you know it's down to race. 

Like I said, it’s got all the latest tech and spec with the KYB front and rear fully adjustable suspension, quick shift system and A&S clutch. To display all necessary information you have the five inch full colour TFT display and smartphone connectivity allowing you to also pair with the MyRide app. 

Personally, the electronic control system sets it aside from the rest, with its ability to control the extensive suite, including traction control, ABS, slide control and front wheel lift and not forgetting the three riding modes and cruise control. 

You’re probably expecting a whopping price, but I can confirm this one comes in at £12,804, which isn’t too bad for what you’re getting…It’s got true cafe racer style, top performance and the perfect amount of tech and spec!

So there you have it, my top 10 list of cafe racers, including a wide range of options. 

If you've been influenced, or maybe you have your very own waiting to hit up the streets, don't forget about insurance, lucky enough for you, you can get a bike insurance quote direct from Lexham!