I’ve owned seven sidecar motorcycles. Yes, seven. From a beat-up 1980s Ural to a sleek Watsonian Grand Prix rig, I’ve ridden them all. And guess what? In 2025, the sidecar scene is hotter than ever.
Why? Because riders are craving adventure without sacrificing practicality. Need to haul gear for a cross-country trip? Check. Want your golden retriever to ride shotgun? Done. Whatever your reason, the market’s exploding with options—from retro classics to futuristic electric rigs. Let’s dive in.
New Motorcycles with Sidecars
1. Ural’s Big Comeback: The CT Returns!
Ural’s CT Motorcycle sidecar
Ural—the brand that’s been building sidecars since World War II—just resurrected its fan-favorite cT model after a brief hiatus. Starting at $17,499 (before fees), this 1WD beast is lighter and nimbler than its 2WD siblings, thanks to a forward-shifted sidecar wheel and a lower center of gravity.
I test-rode one last month, and let me tell you: the cT glides on highways. No more white-knuckling through left turns. Plus, it comes in slick colors like Terracotta Metallic and IKB Blue. If you’re into vintage vibes with modern reliability, this is your rig.
2. Watsonian Squire: British Cool, Now Made in Texas
Watsonian’s sidecar paired with a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
Watsonian’s Grand Prix Manx sidecar ($6,895) paired with a Royal Enfield Interceptor is pure retro magic. But here’s the kicker: Texas Sidecar Company is now manufacturing Watsonian’s GP700 model stateside. No more waiting for overseas shipping!
Want customization? Watsonian offers gel coat colors for £150 extra or full metallic paint jobs starting at £1,000. Pro tip: splurge on the factory alignment service (£995) unless you enjoy wrestling with wonky steering.
| Feature | Ural cT | Watsonian Grand Prix |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $17,499+ (MSRP) | $8,700 |
| Drive | 1WD | Fits any bike |
| Customization | 5 standard colors | 20+ gelcoat/paint options |
| Best For | Daily commuting + off-road | Retro styling + urban cruising |
| Hidden Costs | $1,575+ setup fees | $1,200+ alignment/ accessories |
Affordable Motorcycle Sidecar Options
1. The $1,000 Sidecar Tub Hack
Found a rusty Ural chassis? Snag a 2004 Ural sidecar tub for £995 (yes, they’re still floating around unused in crates!). Bolt it on, and voilà—you have a “new” vintage rig.
2. Chinese Sidecars: Cheap but Risky
Sites like Made-in-China.com list Henan Niegui sidecars for as low as 560. But beware, I once ordered a 2,000 model that arrived with misaligned mounts. If you go this route, budget extra for a pro fitting.
Build Your Own Motorcycle Sidecar with DIY Kits
“I Built a Vespa Sidecar for Under $3K—Here’s How”
Watsonian’s Manx S scooter sidecar (£5,595) pairs perfectly with Vespas, but you can DIY it cheaper. Grab a Platform chassis (£2,995), add a fiberglass tub, and customize. Warning: Steering dampers (£195+) are non-negotiable unless you enjoy fishtailing.
My Vespa built with DIY Sidecar Kits
Used Market: Deals and Red Flags
Ex-Demo Urals: 20% Off, Zero Miles
Sidecar Experience UK sells ex-display 2024 Urals for £26,000 (vs. £27,800 new). These bikes have never touched dirt but come fully loaded with adventure packs.
Avoid These Pitfalls
- Non-warrantied DIY builds: That 8,000 Harley hackon Craigslist? It’ll cost you another 5K in repairs.
- Hidden fees: Dealers like Heindl Engineering add 950 destination fees and 795 setup costs. Always ask for the out-the-door price.
Electric Sidecars and Tech Upgrades
Imagine a silent, emissions-free Ural. While it’s not here yet, brands are teasing electric sidecar prototypes with built-in GPS and collision sensors. My prediction? By 2026, we’ll see the first production models.
Should You Buy a Sidecar?
If you’re after practicality with personality, yes. But remember:
- Licensing: Most states require a motorcycle endorsement, but check local laws.
- Safety: Helmets are a must for passengers (including Fido).
- Community: Join forums like USCA for tips and group rides.
Ready to take the plunge? Start with a test ride at Sidecar Experience UK or hunt for deals on Facebook Marketplace. And hey—if you spot me on my Flat Green Gear Up, give a wave. I’ll be the guy with the dog in goggles.
