American Motorcycle Imports 2025: USA Motorcycle Imports by Country & Top Motorcycle Buyers in USA

The motorcycle business in the United States has always been tied closely to global trade. For decades, Japanese, European, and increasingly Asian manufacturers have supplied the American market with the majority of motorcycles sold here. But in 2025, the data tell a more complicated story.

According to the US import data & motorcycle import data of the USA, the total value of US motorcycle imports reached $3.99 billion in 2024, a 6% decline from the previous year. According to the American motorcycle import data, the USA imported motorcycles worth $1 billion in the first two quarters of 2025. 

The US is the largest motorcycle importer in the world, as per the latest global trade data. U.S. motorcycle imports have fallen sharply over the past two years, not just in total volume, but also in value. Demand inside the country has softened, domestic sales are down, and the traditional flow of bikes from Asia to American ports has begun to shift. This report breaks down the numbers, explains which countries are leading the supply side, identifies who’s buying motorcycles inside the U.S., and looks at what all this means for the future of the industry.  

The U.S. Motorcycle Import Landscape (2023–2025)

Import Value and Volume

In 2022, the United States imported motorcycles and bicycles worth roughly $7 billion, representing a healthy demand rebound after the pandemic years. But by 2023, total import value had dropped to about $5.3 billion, signaling a clear contraction.

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Whether for collectors or dealers, USA motorcycle imports 120 highlight how demand for international bikes continues to rise each year, making compliance with customs and EPA standards essential for smooth American motorcycle imports processing.

By mid-2025, the decline had deepened. Between January and June 2025, U.S. imports of motorcycles and cycles reached approximately $1.72 billion, with a total import volume of around 53,500 metric tons. That was a 19-20% decrease in value and nearly an 18% decline in volume compared to the same period in 2024.  

The average import price per ton stood at roughly $32,000 per ton in early 2025, only slightly lower than the previous year. This stability in per-unit pricing, even as volumes drop, suggests the U.S. is importing fewer but relatively higher-value motorcycles, a mix shift toward premium or mid-range models and away from entry-level mass units.

Import Trends Over Time

The last decade shows clear cyclicality:

• 2015–2019: Gradual growth in imports, as fuel prices stabilized and adventure and sport touring segments expanded.

• 2020–2021: Disruptions from COVID-19 briefly suppressed imports but also created a mini-boom once lockdowns eased.

• 2022–2025: High interest rates, inflation, and changing consumer habits began to bite, driving a consistent decline in both imported units and domestic sales.

USA Motorcycle Imports by Country: Where Does the US Import Motorcycles From?

When it comes to USA motorcycle imports by country, the United States sources motorcycles from various countries worldwide. Major motorcycle importing countries for the US include China, Japan, followed by Italy, Germany, & India. While there are plenty of domestic manufacturers, the US also imports a significant number of motorcycles from various countries around the world. These countries collectively make significant contributions to the diverse motorcycle market in the US, providing a wide range of options for American riders. 

The US motorcycle import statistics reflect the global nature of the motorcycle industry and showcase the importance of international trade in meeting the demands of US consumers. The top 10 countries from where the US imports motorcycles, as per the data on American motorcycle imports and US motorcycle shipment data for 2024-25, include: 

1. China: $962.51 million (24.1%)

China tops the list as the largest exporter of motorcycles to the US, accounting for an impressive 24.1% of all motorcycle imports, as per the data on US motorcycle imports from China by HS code. With a booming motorcycle industry and advanced manufacturing capabilities, China offers a diverse range of bikes, from scooters to sport bikes, at competitive prices.

2. Japan: $896.27 million (22.4%)

Japan is renowned for its high-quality motorcycles, and it comes as no surprise that the US imports a significant number of bikes from this country. Japanese manufacturers like Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki dominate the American market with their reliable and innovative motorcycles. These include everything from entry-level 125cc sport bikes to high-performance superbikes and adventure touring machines.

3. Thailand: $478.78 million (12%)

Thailand has emerged as a major player in the motorcycle industry, providing the US with a variety of affordable and well-built bikes. With a focus on manufacturing small-displacement motorcycles, Thailand caters to the growing demand for fuel-efficient and versatile bikes in the American market.

4. Austria: $322.55 million (8.1%)

Austria is home to KTM, a renowned motorcycle manufacturer known for its high-performance off-road and street bikes. The US imports a considerable number of KTM motorcycles from Austria, catering to riders who seek adrenaline-pumping experiences on two wheels.

5. Germany: $284.82 million (7.1%)

Germany may be famous for its luxury cars, but it also has a strong presence in the motorcycle industry. Brands like BMW offer a wide range of touring and adventure bikes that appeal to American riders looking for comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology, as per the data on US motorcycle imports from Germany.

6. Italy: $254.72 million (6.4%)

Italy is synonymous with style and passion, and its motorcycles embody these qualities perfectly. Italian manufacturers like Ducati and Aprilia produce high-performance bikes with exquisite design and engineering, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts in the US.

7. Taiwan: $221.09 million (5.5%)

Taiwan is a major player in the production of scooters and small-displacement motorcycles, catering to urban commuters and entry-level riders. The US imports a significant number of Taiwanese motorcycles, offering affordable and practical options for everyday transportation.

8. Canada: $130.98 million (3.3%)

Canada may not be a traditional motorcycle powerhouse, but it does contribute to the US market with its unique offerings. Canadian manufacturers like Can-Am produce innovative three-wheeled motorcycles that appeal to riders seeking a different kind of riding experience.

9. Indonesia: $96.57 million (2.4%)

Indonesia is known for its robust motorcycle industry, producing a wide range of bikes that cater to different market segments. The US imports Indonesian motorcycles that offer a balance of performance, affordability, and reliability, appealing to a diverse group of riders.

10. India: $84.66 million (2.1%)

India is home to several motorcycle manufacturers, including Royal Enfield and Bajaj, which have gained popularity in the US market. Indian motorcycles combine classic design with modern technology, providing riders with a unique and nostalgic riding experience.

List of Top Motorcycle Buyers & Importers in the USA: US Motorcycle Importers Database

The US Motorcycle Importers Database offers a comprehensive resource for businesses looking to connect with key players in the US motorcycle import industry. With detailed information on top buyers and importers, this database offers valuable insights into the market landscape, helping companies establish strategic partnerships and expand their reach in the motorcycle sector. The leading motorcycle buyers in the USA, as per the US motorcycle importers data and the motorcycle buyers list for 2024-25, include: 

Summary Insights

• The top 3 (Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha) account for nearly 45% of all U.S. motorcycle import value in 2024.

• China, Japan, and Thailand remain the dominant source countries, followed by Austria and Germany for high-end models.

• CFMoto is the fastest-growing importer, while Harley-Davidson imports more parts than complete motorcycles.

• European brands (BMW, KTM, Piaggio) hold the high-value premium segment.

American Motorcycle Imports in the Last 10 Years: Yearly US Motorcycle Import Data

Why American Motorcycle Imports Are Declining

The sharp downturn in imports in 2024-2025 reflects several overlapping pressures:

1. Soft Domestic Demand: The U.S. motorcycle market has contracted since 2022. Rising financing costs, high insurance premiums, and an ageing rider demographic have all suppressed new purchases.

2. Inventory and Supply Adjustments: During the post-pandemic surge, distributors over-ordered motorcycles to meet backlogged demand. As the market cooled, inventories remained high, leading importers to cut new orders through 2024 and 2025.

3. Economic Headwinds: Inflation and elevated interest rates discouraged discretionary spending. A $10,000 motorcycle financed at 9% interest feels like a luxury in a tight household budget environment.

4. Electric Transition Uncertainty: Several brands are pivoting toward electric motorcycles, but the segment remains small and costly. Importers are cautious, unsure whether to double down on traditional ICE models or invest in EV imports from Europe or China.

5. Trade and Cost Dynamics: Shipping costs remain higher than pre-pandemic levels, and tariffs on certain components persist. Additionally, currency fluctuations, especially a strong U.S. dollar in 2024–2025, made imports more affordable in dollar terms but didn’t offset declining consumer demand.

The U.S. Motorcycle Buyer in 2025

Understanding imports requires understanding who’s buying motorcycles inside the U.S. and what they’re buying.

Market Size and Sales

Annual new motorcycle sales in the U.S. hover between 500,000 and 600,000 units. In mid-2025, total motorcycle sales were estimated at 271,000 units year-to-date, down roughly 9% from the same period in 2024. This downward trend mirrors the import data almost perfectly.

Brand Rankings in 2025

The hierarchy of major motorcycle brands in the United States has shifted dramatically in 2025:

Kawasaki’s rise is the standout story of 2025, as per the reports of the Motorcycles Data. The brand’s mix of value pricing, diverse model lineup, and fresh designs has captured both first-time buyers and enthusiasts trading down from premium cruisers.

Buyer Demographics

The average age of an American motorcycle rider in 2025 is around 47 years old, a figure that has been rising steadily. Older riders favor touring and cruiser models, while younger buyers (under 35) lean toward smaller displacement, sport, or dual-sport bikes.

Gender diversity is also improving, with women now accounting for approximately 20% of new motorcycle buyers, double their share from a decade earlier. Many of these new riders are attracted to lower-seat-height, lighter models and urban commuter designs.

Geographic Demand

Motorcycle ownership in the U.S. is unevenly distributed across states. The five largest by registrations are:

1. California – about 950,000 registered motorcycles

2. Florida – roughly 640,000

3. Ohio – around 385,000

4. Pennsylvania – roughly 380,000

5. Texas – about 375,000

Per-capita, the states with the highest motorcycle density are Montana, South Dakota, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin, each with strong riding cultures and seasonal events that sustain local demand.

How Import and Buyer Patterns Interact

Brand Footprints vs. Import Sources

The leading brands and their supply footprints shape U.S. import behavior directly:

• Kawasaki sources primarily from Japan and Thailand, meaning its surge boosts imports from those two nations.

• Honda imports from Japan, Thailand, and India; its slowdown has reduced overall import volume.

• Harley-Davidson manufactures most of its large-displacement models domestically, so its decline doesn’t strongly affect import numbers but does impact component trade.

• BMW and KTM contribute to imports from Germany and Austria, respectively.

In short, every shift in U.S. brand ranking has a parallel impact on the country-of-origin composition of imports.

Model Mix Shifts

• Heavy cruisers are shrinking as a category; these models are expensive and appeal mainly to ageing riders.

• Adventure and dual-sport bikes are gaining share, helping countries like Austria and Germany that specialize in those models.

• Entry-level sport bikes (250–400cc) remain a lifeline for brands like Kawasaki and Yamaha, often sourced from Thailand or Indonesia.

Price and Value Dynamics

The stable import price per ton, around $32,000, shows that while fewer bikes are coming in, the average value per unit remains high. This means importers are emphasizing mid- and high-margin models, not budget scooters or commuter bikes.

Risks and Opportunities for 2025–2027

Risks

1. Prolonged Market Contraction – With 2025 showing another double-digit decline in both imports and domestic sales, the U.S. motorcycle market could face multi-year stagnation.

2. Demographic Headwinds – The core buyer base is ageing; without younger riders entering, long-term demand will erode.

3. Tariff and Geopolitical Uncertainty – US–China tensions, European trade adjustments, or changes in tariff policy could disrupt established import flows.

4. Currency Risk – A weaker U.S. dollar could raise import costs, squeezing margins for distributors.

5. Electric Vehicle Disruption – If electric motorcycles take off faster than expected, traditional import lines could be upended overnight.

Opportunities

1. Source Diversification – Thailand, Vietnam, and Mexico could benefit as alternative suppliers, especially if tariffs rise on China.

2. Mid-Capacity and Dual-Sport Growth – Adventure riding remains one of the few growth areas; models in the 600–900cc range are performing well.

3. Urban Mobility and Lightweight Segments – As urban riders look for affordable transport options, small-displacement imports from Asia could regain traction.

4. Electric Segment Imports – Although nascent, importing competitively priced electric motorcycles from Asia and Europe could offer future upside.

5. Premium Market Resilience – High-income buyers remain willing to spend on luxury and performance motorcycles, benefiting imports from Austria, Germany, and Italy.

U.S. Motorcycle Market by Brand, 2025 YTD

The Road Ahead For US Motorcycle Imports

By the end of 2025, U.S. motorcycle imports are expected to total roughly $3.4-3.6 billion, continuing the downward trajectory of the last two years. The decline is not catastrophic but structural, a reflection of demographic shifts, economic tightening, and the industry’s slow adaptation to new riding trends.

Still, the market is not without resilience. Enthusiast segments like adventure and off-road riding remain robust. The ongoing electrification wave, though small today, offers long-term growth potential once price and range barriers fall. And global suppliers in Thailand, Austria, and Italy are well-positioned to meet changing American preferences.

Global Trade Insights & Market Trends in US Motorcycle Imports (2025)

The US motorcycle import data for 2025 shows a market in transition, reflecting broader shifts across the United States motorcycle market and global supply chains. As motorcycle import statistics USA reveal, the downturn in shipments aligns with changing consumer behavior, tightening economic conditions, and evolving sourcing patterns. Even with reduced volumes, the country remains one of the world’s largest buyers, with strong demand for adventure, sport, and premium models that continue to sustain the American motorcycle market analysis. The ongoing adjustments within the motorcycle trade data USA indicate a renewed focus on premium and mid-capacity models, reshaping how brands approach U.S. powersports imports and compliance with motorcycle import regulations USA.

Across the supply landscape, China motorcycle exports to USA and Japan motorcycle exports to USA continue to dominate, supported by competitive pricing and strong brand presence. Meanwhile, Thailand motorcycle export data, European motorcycle imports USA, and German motorcycle exports to USA highlight the importance of international diversity in sourcing. 

Countries like Italy and India are strengthening their foothold, reflected in growing Italian motorcycle exports to USA and the steady rise in the India motorcycle export market. These imports form part of a globally integrated network of international motorcycle manufacturers, foreign motorcycle suppliers, and motorcycle distributors in USA who ensure a continuous flow of models for every segment, from entry-level commuters to premium motorcycle imports and adventure motorcycle imports USA.

Market behavior remains equally dynamic. According to the latest indicators, U.S. motorcycle buyer trends and motorcycle purchasing trends USA show a shift toward value-for-money models and mid-range displacements. Demographic reports show evolving U.S. rider demographics, with younger and more diverse customers entering the market. This aligns with a rebound in niche sectors like electric vehicles, fueling interest in electric motorcycle imports USA, while analysts monitor motorcycle demand forecasts USA, motorcycle import cost USA, and motorcycle import volume data to map future growth. As U.S. motorcycle import value and motorcycle import shipments fluctuate, manufacturers and importers are adapting strategies to meet the expectations of American powersports buyers and sustain momentum despite market uncertainties.

Key Takeaways

1. Imports Are Down – Total U.S. motorcycle imports fell nearly 20% in early 2025, with value dropping faster than volume.

2. China and Japan Dominate – Together, they account for more than 40% of the US motorcycle import value.

3. Kawasaki Leads Buyers – The brand’s surge in 2025 reshaped both domestic sales and import sourcing from Japan and Thailand.

4. Ageing Riders, New Challenges – The core U.S. motorcycle buyer is older than ever; growth will depend on attracting younger and more diverse riders.

5. Premium and Adventure Segments Resilient – Imports from Austria, Germany, and Italy maintain high per-unit values and stable demand.

6. Electric Uncertainty – EV motorcycles could disrupt existing supply patterns by 2027, particularly if U.S. incentives improve.

Conclusion and Final Words

In conclusion, the story of American motorcycle imports in 2025 is one of transition. Imports are shrinking, but not collapsing. The U.S. market is maturing, shifting away from volume-driven sales toward higher-value niches. The old dominance of heavyweight cruisers is giving way to mid-capacity, adventure, and lifestyle models.

For importers, diversification is key. Relying solely on China or Japan is risky; expanding relationships with Thailand, Austria, or even Mexico could provide strategic stability. For manufacturers, aligning products with what modern riders want: lighter, more versatile, and affordable motorcycles, will define success. 

We hope that you liked our data-driven and interactive blog report on American motorcycle imports in 2025. For more insights into the latest US export-import data, or to search live US motorcycle import data by country or company, visit USImportdata. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in for customized trade reports, market insights, and a verified database of the top motorcycle buyers & importers in the USA, as per your needs.