On busy city streets or winding mountain roads, choosing a motorcycle is as much about protection as it is about performance. Riders who prioritize safety look for brands that combine solid engineering, up-to-date rider aids, and a track record of reliable recalls management to reduce risk on every ride.
There are 10 Safest Motorcycle Brands, ranging from BMW to Yamaha; for each brand the list highlights Notable models,Key safety tech,Recalls & evidence — you’ll find below.
How are the safest motorcycle brands determined?
Most rankings use a mix of objective and practical measures: which rider-assist systems are standard (ABS, traction control, cornering aids), crash-test or lab data where available, frequency and severity of recalls, and real-world injury and reliability reports; together these paint a picture of how likely a bike is to prevent or survive incidents.
Will advanced safety features affect insurance or ownership costs?
Yes — features like ABS and advanced electronic aids often lower insurance premiums because they cut claim risk, though initial purchase prices may be higher and repair costs can increase with complex systems; shoppers should weigh safety benefits against maintenance and insurer discounts when choosing a model.
Safest Motorcycle Brands
| Brand | Notable models | Key safety tech | Recalls & evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW | R 1250 GS, S 1000 RR, F 900 R | Cornering ABS (ABS Pro), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), electronic suspension | ~75 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Favorable IIHS data; pioneered motorcycle ABS. |
| Ducati | Multistrada V4, Panigale V4, Monster | Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), wheelie control, radar cruise control | ~60 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Praised for advanced, race-derived electronics. |
| Kawasaki | Ninja H2 SX, Z900, Versys 650 | Kawasaki Intelligent ABS (KIBS), Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), IMU-enhanced electronics | ~40 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Strong reviews on its advanced safety systems. |
| Honda | Gold Wing, Africa Twin, CB1000R | ABS, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), DCT, airbag (Gold Wing) | ~35 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Excellent reliability and low insurance claim rates. |
| Triumph | Tiger 900, Bonneville T120, Street Triple RS | Optimized Cornering ABS & TC, rider modes, integrated IMU | ~45 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Strong adoption of modern electronics. |
| Yamaha | MT-09, YZF-R1, Ténéré 700 | Lean-sensitive Traction Control System (TCS), ABS, Slide Control System (SCS) | ~40 recalls (US, 10 yrs). High ratings in consumer reports for reliability. |
| KTM | 1290 Super Adventure, 890 Duke R, 390 Adventure | Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) with Cornering ABS, Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) | ~50 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Bosch MSC partnership sets an industry standard. |
| Suzuki | V-Strom 1050XT, GSX-S1000GT, Hayabusa | Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), Motion Track ABS, traction control | ~25 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Top-tier reliability ratings from consumer reports. |
| Harley-Davidson | Road Glide, Pan America, Sportster S | Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) with cornering ABS and TC | ~100+ recalls (US, 10 yrs). Lowest collision claim rates per IIHS data. |
| Indian | Challenger, FTR, Chieftain | Smart Lean Technology, traction control, ABS, rider modes | ~55 recalls (US, 10 yrs). Favorable insurer data similar to competitors. |
Images and Descriptions
BMW
A pioneer in motorcycle safety, BMW made ABS standard years ago. Most models feature advanced rider aids like cornering ABS and traction control, making them a top choice for safety-conscious riders seeking premium features and proven engineering.
Ducati
Ducati integrates world-class performance with cutting-edge safety. The Ducati Safety Pack, including cornering ABS and traction control, is standard on most bikes. High-end models even offer radar-assisted cruise control, setting a new benchmark for rider-assist technology.
Kawasaki
Kawasaki packs its performance-oriented machines with intelligent safety aids. Its advanced suites, including multi-level traction control and cornering management functions, help riders safely manage power and are increasingly available across their sport and touring lineup.
Honda
Renowned for reliability, Honda builds safety into every class of motorcycle. From the world’s only production airbag on the Gold Wing to selectable torque control on many models, Honda provides practical, user-friendly safety features that benefit riders of all skill levels.
Triumph
Triumph skillfully blends classic style with modern safety technology. Many models, from adventure bikes to modern classics, come equipped with switchable traction control and cornering ABS. This commitment ensures a predictable and confidence-inspiring ride across their diverse lineup.
Yamaha
Yamaha infuses its bikes with race-proven electronics that enhance street safety. Its sophisticated IMU-based systems offer lean-sensitive traction control and ABS on many sport and naked bikes, providing incredible control. Yamaha’s reputation for reliability further boosts peace of mind.
KTM
KTM is a leader in off-road and adventure bikes, where its advanced electronics shine. The brand’s widespread use of Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), including cornering ABS and lean-sensitive traction control, provides exceptional safety on both pavement and unpredictable terrain.
Suzuki
Suzuki is famous for its bulletproof reliability and offers a comprehensive electronics package called S.I.R.S. on many models. This system includes advanced traction control, drive modes, and cornering ABS, delivering modern safety in a dependable, value-packed motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson
While known for tradition, Harley-Davidson has embraced modern safety with its Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS). Available on most touring models, this suite adds cornering-enhanced ABS and traction control, significantly boosting rider confidence on their iconic heavyweight motorcycles.
Indian
Indian Motorcycle combines classic American style with essential modern rider aids. Many of its bikes feature ride modes, traction control, and lean-angle sensitive ABS via its Smart Lean Technology. This provides a crucial safety net for riders enjoying its powerful V-twin engines.
