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See 5 Custom Motorcycles That Ride A Lot, Spend Little, And Hardly Ever Go To The Shop — And Yes, Even A Harley Davidson Makes The List.
If there is a motorcycle style that wins over loyal fans, it is the custom. The classic look, relaxed riding position, and characteristic roar make these motorcycles more than just a means of transportation: they are a lifestyle. But for a long time, customs carried the label of being expensive to maintain and gas guzzlers, something that scared off those who wanted to ride a lot without blowing their budget.
The good news is that the scene has changed. Today there are economical, reliable, and low-maintenance custom motorcycles — some Japanese, some Indian, and even a Harley Davidson that shows the brand can offer a surprisingly affordable model for operating costs.
Here are 5 custom motorcycles that ride a lot, spend little, and rarely go to the shop.
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1. Honda Rebel 500 – The “Custom For Everyone”
The Honda Rebel 500 is one of the models that best represents the concept of an accessible and reliable custom. Equipped with a 471 cc parallel-twin engine, it delivers 47 hp, a 6-speed transmission, and a fuel consumption that surprises for the category: it does up to 27 km/l on average.
With simple maintenance, low-cost services (following Honda’s standard), and a seat height of only 690 mm, the Rebel is perfect for those starting in the custom world or wanting a motorcycle for comfortable travel without spending a fortune.
Why It’s On The List:
- Reliable engine and affordable services
- Fuel consumption of up to 27 km/l
- Comfort for long distances
2. Royal Enfield Meteor 350 – The Indian Icon Of Economy
The Meteor 350 is a favorite among budget travelers. With a 349 cc single-cylinder engine, 20 hp, and electronic fuel injection, the motorcycle is simple, robust, and extremely economical: it achieves between 32 and 35 km/l with gasoline.
The classic design, relaxed riding position, and comfortable seat make the Meteor a perfect motorcycle to travel across Brazil from end to end. Another highlight is the low maintenance costs — services cost less than those for many 250 cc motorcycles, and the Royal Enfield network has been growing in Brazil.
Why It’s On The List:
- Achieves over 30 km/l
- Simple mechanics with low maintenance costs
- Classic style and comfortable riding position
3. Yamaha XV 250 Virago – The Indestructible Japanese
The Yamaha Virago 250 is no longer sold new, but it remains a legend among Japanese customs. With a 249 cc V-twin engine, the motorcycle is known for its absurd durability — there are reports of units with over 200,000 km ridden without opening the engine.
Besides its robustness, the Virago surprises in economy: it does about 28 to 30 km/l. In the used market, it’s possible to find units in good condition for under R$ 18,000, and replacement parts remain easy to find thanks to the model’s popularity.
Why It’s On The List:
- Durable and reliable V-twin engine
- Fuel consumption of up to 30 km/l
- Cultured model that is easy to maintain
4. Harley-Davidson Street 750 – The “Democratic” Harley
Yes, even a Harley made the list. The Street 750, launched to be the brand’s entry point in Brazil, features a 749 cc Revolution X V-twin engine, 58 hp, and a fuel consumption that surprises: it achieves an average of 22 km/l.
With scheduled maintenance at long intervals, the Street 750 has a lower workshop cost than other larger Harleys and more affordable parts. It may not be the best-selling Harley, but it is a great option for those who have always wanted a custom from the brand without spending a fortune on maintenance.
Why It’s On The List:
- The most accessible Harley in terms of maintenance
- Reasonable consumption for a 750 cc
- Style and prestige of the brand
5. Bajaj Avenger 220 – The Indian Surprise
The Bajaj Avenger 220 is one of the cheapest and most economical custom motorcycles in the world. Equipped with a 220 cc single-cylinder engine and 19 hp, it is light, comfortable, and achieves up to 36 km/l with gasoline.
It is not yet officially sold in Brazil but is under negotiation to arrive in the coming years, following the success of the Bajaj Dominar. In the countries where it is sold, the Avenger is considered unbreakable and very cheap to maintain.
Why It’s On The List:
- Achieves up to 36 km/l
- Extremely simple mechanics
- Very low price in the markets where it is sold
Summary – Fuel Consumption And Maintenance
| Model | Displacement | Average Consumption | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Rebel 500 | 471 cc | 27 km/l | Affordable services, great for beginners |
| Royal Enfield Meteor 350 | 349 cc | 33 km/l | Economical and with classic style |
| Yamaha Virago 250 | 249 cc | 30 km/l | Cultured used model and easy to maintain |
| Harley-Davidson Street 750 | 749 cc | 22 km/l | Harley with more accessible costs |
| Bajaj Avenger 220 | 220 cc | 36 km/l | Promise of arrival in Brazil |
Why These Motorcycles Hardly Ever Go To The Shop?
- Simple mechanics: single-cylinder or low-maintenance twin-cylinder engines
- Accessible parts: easy to find and cheap
- Robust construction: made to withstand intense use
- Low consumption: spending less on fuel means less financial stress
If before the idea of owning a custom motorcycle was synonymous with high expenses and constant visits to the shop, today there are reliable, economical, and accessible models.
From classic Japanese bikes like the Virago 250 to new options like the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and even the Harley Street 750, the segment has reinvented itself.
For those who have always dreamed of having a custom but were afraid of the costs, it is now possible to achieve that dream with motorcycles that ride a lot, spend little, and rarely cause headaches.
Peças de reposição para virago 250 como a minha, não são tão faceis de achar como vocês fazem parecer. É claro que existem muitas similares, mas, a qualidade deixa a desejar. Muitos dizem que é original, mas, não é verdade. E nas autorizadas, além de precisar esperar um tempo considerável, preço é exorbitante.