Why Do Americans Rarely See Older Motorcycles on YouTube?

Living in Europe, it's not uncommon to come across individuals riding around on older motorcycles, some as old as the 1990s or even the 80s. This variety of motorcycles includes everything from small 600cc bikes to larger liter bikes. However, when you watch American YouTube videos, it's rare to see any older models.

My Experiences with Older Motorcycles

My personal collection features several older motorcycles, including a 1950 Harley Davidson WL, a 1968 Triumph TR100, a 1970 Triumph TR120, a 1974 BMW R75/6, and a 1980 BMW T100 and a T100 project bike, a 1980 Yamaha XS400. Although I don't ride them as often, they are in excellent condition.

Why Is the USA Different?

While motorcycles do suffer from some wear and tear in the USA, they tend to be cared for poorly, leading to shorter lifespans. In the Las Vegas area, it's not uncommon to see clean older bikes, but it's still uncommon compared to other regions. Most Americans use motorcycles primarily for pleasure rather than transportation, especially for longer distances.

European vs. American Motorcycle Culture

In Europe, motorcycles are typically used for daily transportation. People often ride short distances to work, making even older models viable. Conversely, in North America, motorcycles are seen more as a toy or a pleasure craft. People prefer newer models that can handle long distances and uncomfortable rides, as they want to avoid breakdowns and being stuck in remote areas.

Survey Results and Market Trends

A survey by the Motorcycle Industry Council shows an increasing number of US households owning motorcycles, yet sales of new bikes have been slow. So, if more people have motorcycles, what are they buying? It's likely that they are purchasing older, more affordable bikes from the 90s or 2000s.

Furthermore, it's important to consider the sample bias in YouTube content. Many of those who own newer bikes may have more money to invest in high-quality cameras or have a stronger inclination to share their bikes with the world. This doesn't mean that there is a lack of interest in older bikes; it merely reflects a different perspective and resource availability.

Personal Experience with Older Bikes

My personal experience includes a 2007 SV650, a 1993 FJ1200, and a project bike, a 1980 Yamaha XS400. If the XS were to start running again, I might consider making a video to showcase these older bikes for European viewers.

Understanding the nuances of motorcycle culture in both regions can help clarify the reasons behind the prevalence—or lack thereof—of older motorcycles on American YouTube.