These oddballs are proof that bike firms don't always get it right... I think they're fascinating
Sometimes a manufacturer releases a bike that is, well, just a bit bizarre! It doesn’t happen all that often but when it does you have to stand back and admire the willingness to push boundaries and do something truly leftfield.
- Related: Used big-bore bruisers on a budget
Sadly, nine times out of ten their efforts bomb in showrooms and the machine is withdrawn from sale very quickly afterwards but that’s the risk you take when breaking from the motorcycling norm. But despite their short production runs they can make intriguing used buys.
Read on for our expert guide to bonkers but brilliant bikes!
MCN Recommended: 2008 – 2010 Honda DN-01 – £3500 – £6000
MCN’s Best Buy
Spec:
- Power: 51bhp
- Engine capacity: 6800cc
- Seat height: 690mm
- Kerb weight: 270kg
Styled like a stingray, the DN-01 was launched as a comfortable sports cruiser. Despite its clever transmission, the bike’s length and lack of storage saw it unpopular with city riders while its lack of performance (the V-twin can trace its roots to the Deauville) turned-off custom fans. And it was also very expensive. Comfortable and with a low seat, the DN-01 turns heads and now it can be had for little money it is much more appealing in an odd way. A very odd way.
Honda DN-01 used buying advice
- The linked brake’s three-piston calipers can seize pistons so check for a dragging pad and also check the ‘handbrake’ because it can become sticky if not used regularly.
- Honda didn’t learn their lesson and in 2014 they released the NM4 Vultus. Basically a re-styled DN-01 with a bigger motor, it also flopped. Prices start at £6000.
- Check the auto works in all modes as owners report that the sensors and motor that controls it are located very low, often leading to corrosion. As well as running the bike in auto, go up and down the gearbox manually.
2007 – 2010 BMW HP2 Megamoto – £12,000 – £18,000
Totally leftfield boxer-powered supermoto
Spec:
- Power: 113bhp
- Engine capacity: 1170cc
- Seat height: 860mm
- Kerb weight: 199kg
Why BMW created the HP2 Megamoto is a mystery. The top-spec supermoto cost £12,595 and was powered by an SOHC boxer twin. The Megamoto failed to sell because the HP2 Sport was a far more tempting prospect to anyone wanting a show-stopping boxer. Quirky and eye-catching, the Megamoto now commands a steep used price but it is a unique model that very few have ridden.
BMW HP2 Megamoto used buying advice
- The boxer is solid but it does need servicing regularly, so check the service history. It can puff a whiff of smoke on start-up, but should clear almost straight away.
- Öhlins suspension doesn’t like to be left standing, so check the shock for leaks. It’s fully rebuildable (forabout £250).
- As with all shaft-drive BMW models, check the rear hub for signs of oil leaks and listen out for a grumble that indicates the hub itself may require rebuilding.
2018 – 2022 Yamaha Niken – £5500 – £8000
Bold looks and incredible handling from the three-wheeler
Spec:
- Power: 113bhp
- Engine capacity: 847cc
- Seat height: 820mm
- Kerb weight: 263kg
Unveiled in 2015 as the MWT-9 prototype, the Yamaha Niken was conceived as an MT-09-based sporty tourer that used its extra front wheel to boost grip and stability. It rides well and is extremely good in the wet, but a high price and stigma over threewheels saw it bomb. Unable to sell stock, dealers hacked the prices of new Nikens and the bottom fell out of the market.
Yamaha Niken used buying advice
- The Niken GT added 25L semisoft panniers, heated grips, a taller screen, comfort seat and a 12v power socket.
- Always check with insurance providers before buying, not all will cover the Niken.
- Check the 298mm front discs for both wear and any signs of warping, the Niken is surprisingly heavy and can put strain on the system. Also inspect for any dings on the front wheels – it’s easy to forget there are two when near a kerb!
2006 – 2010 Ducati SportClassic – £12,000-£20,000
Retro V-twins that arrived before their time
Spec:
- Power: 92bhp
- Engine capacity: 992cc
- Seat height: 825mm
- Kerb weight: 181kg
In 2006 the Paul Smart rep and standard Sport 1000 arrived before the GT1000 was released a year later. Powered by a soulful aircooled V-twin, the SportClassic models failed to sell and were discontinued. Bikes built before their time, popularity of the SportClassics soared during the ‘hipster’ era but they are now returning to (almost) acceptable levels.
Ducati SportClassic used buying advice
- The limited-edition Paul Smart tribute commands a high price tag, but the Sport 1000S is more sensibly priced. It’s not as flashy, but is more affordable.
- Look for a standard model or one with a nice set of official pipes.
- Check the service history. The cambelt doesn’t like to be left in a set position and can degrade (it should be replaced every two years or 15,000 miles) and the valveclearances should also be checked every two years/15,000 miles.
2014 – 2016 Honda F6C – £10,000 – £12,000
Honda’s futuristic stripped-back Gold Wing
Spec:
- Power: 114bhp
- Engine capacity: 1832cc
- Seat height: 734mm
- Kerb weight: 341kg
While the Rune never came to the UK, Honda did grant us the F6C. Based around the GL1500 Gold Wing, the F6C was a stripped-back custom cruiser that had bags of attitude and a monster flat-six motor. With the kind of street presence that is usually only reserved for the Triumph Rocket III, the F6C is a real head-turner and has an effortlessly smooth motor.
Honda F6C used buying advice
- The Wing-based engine is reliable but requires servicing every 4000 miles. It needs a valve-clearance check every 32,000 miles.
- The F6C can suffer from warped discs. If it still has OE rubber lines, change them for braided items.
- Inspect the shaft drive for oil leaks or a grumbling sound that indicates it might be worn.
- If you want something a bit lighter, the forgotten-about CTX1300 is a Pan European-based cruiser/bagger that was also launched in 2014.
