The retro classics in the mid-range - A2
Triumph Thruxton 400. Could an 18-year-old want anything more? Photo: Alf Graarud Motor AS
It is clear that the class of medium-sized motorcycles adapted to A2 is growing strongly in Europe. More and more motorcycle manufacturers are now offering models adapted to this segment, many in classic packaging with historic names such as Thruxton and Bantam.
BSA offers, among other things, the 350 cubic meter Bantam. Price: 59,900,- Photo: Erling Sande AS
How much does it really have to cost to experience the joy of motorcycling? Many of me started with an old moped in the 70s. The effort consisted more of tinkering than money. We had to repair it ourselves, a skill we took with us throughout life. However, times are constantly changing, and so are priorities, and not least personal finances. Not everyone likes or can tinker with a bike. Uncertainty about interest rates and inflation also means that many people have to think soberly, and that the budget for motorcycling must be kept relatively low.
BSA Thunderbolt; Adventurer for those who like rough terrain
Sales of large, heavy motorcycles are not what they once were, and perhaps that's understandable. Why spend a quarter of a million or more when you can get a brand new motorcycle for 60-70,000 kroner, and on top of that with a 5-year warranty? Some of us are happy to shell out 100,000 kroner or more for an old classic. It's often in great shape, but still old, without a warranty, and if something breaks, we usually have to fix it ourselves.
The Meguro S1 marks Kawasaki's historical roots. Photo: Norsk Motor Import AS
Thus, motorcycle riding becomes both a hobby and a lifestyle, something I recognize in myself. Then there are the others, those who just want to ride, and not spend more money than necessary to experience the wind in their hair in the open landscape. This group is growing strongly in Europe, and judging by what the importers I have spoken to say, it will also be growing here at home.
Triumph Tracker 400 is tough and compact. Photo: Alf Graarud Motor AS
I have to admit that I like the displacement of my old Harley-Davidson . 1340cc gives me the bottom end, but after reading through sales brochures and testing a number of mid-range makes and models, I realize that a motorcycle with a displacement of around 400cc is not what it once was. They are definitely faster and not least safer in the corners today.
Honda's classic alternative in the mid-range; GB350S. Photo: Alf Graarud Motor AS
I myself rode up on my very 18th birthday, specifically June 6th in 1982 on "Bilsakkyndige's" motorcycle, a 1981 model Kawasaki Z400. Great classic, but dead as a herring compared to today's 400cc bikes. The world is moving forward....
Kawasaki W230. Modern tech in classic packaging. Photo: Norsk Motor Import AS
After scanning the websites of the dealers, we can safely state that the model range in the mid-range is increasing. Perhaps this development can contribute to recruitment to an environment where the average age should definitely be reduced. The sales statistics for the A2 class in 2025 showed 2219 bicycles sold, where the "10 on the top list" looked like this:
- 1. KTM , 610
- 2. Honda , 449
- 3. Yamaha , 226
- 4. Triumph , 173
- 5. Kawasaki , 130
- 6. Husqvarna , 109
- 7. Royal Enfield , 103
- 8. CFMoto, 65
- 9. Voge, 63
- 10. QJ Motor, 35
The retro Z650RS is available as A2. Photo: Norsk Motor Import AS