A lot of considerations come into play when one decides to buy a new motorcycle. Along with all the practical aspects such as the brand, model, specifics, performance, handling, overall style, and look of a bike, for some people, color can also be a determining factor.
Vehicle manufacturers are known for using color psychology to attract a certain target market. So the color of a vehicle or motorbike can actually reveal a lot about the owner’s personality. And in many cases, certain colors have come to be associated with specific brands because of their brand identity through the years.
Red
The color red on motorcycles is often associated with aggression, excitement, and speed. The color exudes high performance, adventure, action, and power, so it’s no wonder this color is a favorite among racing enthusiasts and speed junkies. If you own a red motorcycle, chances are you’re an outgoing, adventurous, and energetic person with a zest for life, who likes to move and drive fast. Or perhaps you’re partial to specific brands.
While red is a common color available in different motorcycle brands, the Italian brand Ducati is typically associated with red, as seen in many of its sports bikes. Ducati adopted the bright hue that predomiated many Italian sports cars in the late ‘70s, following an assigned color code per country. According to Motocard, at the start of the 20th century, the International Automobile Federation obliged manufacturers to paint cars according to a color code. Italy was assigned the color red and it’s remained popular with the brand even with modern motorcycle models. Just check out how awesome red looks on the Ducati Panigale V4 R.
Japanese brand Honda has also been closely linked to red, especially in the case of Motocross, Enduro, and raid bikes. Honda’s history shows that back in the ‘50s, cars in Japan weren’t allowed to be painted red to avoid confusion with emergency vehicles like fire trucks and ambulances. Honda challenged this by releasing a reddish orange vehicle to stand which attracted great interest from the driving public. Eventually, Honda got approval and the vivid red used in Honda’s logo became the corporate color. Now bright red Honda motorcycles, like the iconic Honda Super Cub and popular Honda ADV can be seen all over the world, conveying the Honda’s passion, spirit of innovation, and reliability.
Black
The color black on a motorcycle looks timeless, classic, powerful, and elegant, making it a popular choice for cruisers and big bikes. This bold and assertive color often symbolizes confidence and strength. Motorcycle riders who prefer black may exude a sense of self-assurance and independence both on and off the road. Black has long been the preferred color of those who are tough, rebellious, edgy, and mysterious.
Several motorcycle brands use the color black heavily in their design aesthetics and branding, including the American brand Harley-Davidson, reflecting the brand's classic and rugged image. The black leather jackets and attire of motorcycle culture, popularized by motorcycle clubs during the post-World War II era, resulted in black being the default uniform of many Harley riders. On a practical note, black is a practical choice, as it can mask grease stains, oil, and dirt more easily than lighter colors. Other brands with classic-looking black bikes include BMW Motorrad, Triumph, and Bristol, to name a few.
Green
Green is the color of nature, energy and growth, reflected in the dynamism and sense of adventure of motorcycles and their owners. Motorcycle riders who prefer green probably love spending time outdoors, and enjoy the freedom of exploring scenic routes and natural landscapes. If you own a green motorbike, you’re most likely an adventurous and spontaneous person. Since green is not a common color in motorcycles, it can also signify individuality and a desire to stand out from the crowd.
No other motorcycle brand is more closely associated with the color green than the Japanese brand Kawasaki. Since the 1960s, when Kawasaki introduced their “Team Green,” the brand has been using the distinctive shade of lime green for official racing teams of various motorcycle events, including motocross, road racing, and endurance racing. The bright green shade of green, which can easily be spotted from far away, remains a standout color choice for off-road and sports bike users.
Orange
Orange motorcycles exude vibrant energy and boldness, reflecting their owner’s enthusiasm and zest for life. If you own an orange bike, you probably love being the center of attention and are likely to turn heads wherever you go. You enjoy the thrill of exploration and live life to the fullest. You’re also probably very sociable and friendly within the motorcycle community.
Austrian brand KTM is closely associated with the distinctive and eye-catching color color. The brand’s first color option dating back to the 1950s, Electronic Orange, was chosen as a signature color to differentiate their motorcycles from other brands and easily stand out on the road and track. Since then, the color has come to symbolize the brand's Austrian roots, passion for motorcycling, and commitment to performance and innovation.
Blue
Blue is a versatile and approachable color. While some bright shades of blue can exude excitement, more muted shades can look professional. Blue is often associated with serenity and tranquility, symbolizing a calm and composed demeanor. Motorcycle riders who prefer blue may have a laid-back and easygoing personality, preferring a relaxed approach to life and riding. Blue is also associated with trustworthiness, stability and dependability. Riders of blue motorcycles are likely more cautious, reliable, and practical folk.\
When it comes to brands, the color blue is often linked to Yamaha. While some signature bikes were yellow for a time, Yamaha started using blue in the 80s and the color branding has proven popular. In terms of racing heritage, Yamaha used blue paint schemes, particularly in MotoGP where the factory Yamaha Racing Team traditionally featured blue and white liveries. The brand now typically incorporates blue in its branding and its motorcycles, including Blue Core Technology developed by the motorcycle maker.
Yellow
The color yellow is often associated with fun, optimism, joy, and positivity. A highly visible color preferred younger riders, yellow motorycles can signify someone who is idealistic and trendy. Motorcycle riders who prefer yellow may have an upbeat and cheerful personality. Yellow is linked to energy and adventure, symbolizing a sense of excitement and willingness to explore. Riders who prefer yellow bikes are likely to have sunny dispositions and thrive in social settings.
Back in the 70s and 80s, the Japanese brand Suzuki was typically associated with the color yellow. While their modern lineup has more color choices these days, they still have off-road and adventure motorcycles that heavily use yellow, including the iconic DR-Z400SE and V-Strom.
White
White is a neutral color, often associated with peace and harmony, so chances are riders who prefer white bikes have a calm and peaceful personality. White looks clean and minimalist, reflecting the owner’s personality or an appreciation for simplicity and elegance. White motorbikes and scooters exude a sense of sophistication, refinement, luxury and exclusivity, and modernity.
While white isn’t associated with one specific brand, several manufacturers offer models in predominantly white color options to cater to riders who appreciate its clean and sophisticated appeal, such as MV Augusta’s Luxurious White and Gold SUPERVELOCE S, the Royal Enfield Classic and Bristol Classic. Just take a look at the exclusive Justin Bieber Spring 150 all-white Vespa. So fresh!
Gray/Silver
Depending on its finish, motorcycles in gray or silver can look very practical and understated, but also classic, timeless, and professional. Gray is a neutral color usually associated with balance and composure, reflecting a cool, calm, if slightly aloof personality (which I can personally attest to as an owner of a Gray Kymco Like). Silver is often associated with modernity and sophistication, symbolizing a sleek and refined aesthetic. Motorcycle riders or silver bikes may have a taste for contemporary design and appreciate elegant simplicity. Silver is also futuristic. In recent years, silver has often been used to emphasize tech-savvy and innovative design, so riders of silver motorcycles are probably interested in new motorcycle technology and enjoy staying up-to-date with the latest trends.
Various motorcycle manufacturers offer models in gray and silver color options to cater to riders who appreciate its versatile appeal. Feast your eyes on the stunning Indian Chief Dark Horse in Stealth Gray.
While some riders may have a strong preference for bikes based a color alone, the most important thing is to select a motorcycle that meets your specific needs, preferences, and riding style, regardless of its color. Hey, that’s what paint jobs are for, right?
