Top 5 Motorcycles with Sidecars for 2025

Once seen as relics of WWII or quirky accessories for vintage bike collectors, sidecars are now reimagined as adventure-ready rigs, eco-friendly commuters, and even Instagram-worthy pet taxis. With brands like Ural and Royal Enfield doubling down on retro-modern designs and electric innovators like Zero Motorcycles joining the fray, there’s never been a better time to hop on the sidecar bandwagon.

Let’s dive into the top 5 motorcycles with sidecars for 2025, compare classics vs. modern beasts, and unpack everything you need to know before buying.

What Makes a Great Sidecar Motorcycle?

Before we get to the bikes, let’s talk about what matters:

• Stability: Sidecars add weight and change handling. Look for models with adjustable suspensions (like Ural’s Nitron shocks) or tech like Honda’s AI-assisted stability control.
• Customization: Can you swap the sidecar for a cargo box? Watsonian’s quick-detach mounts make it a breeze.
• Power: Most sidecars max out at 70–85 mph—perfect for backroads, but don’t expect sportbike speeds.
• Style: From Ural’s military-inspired Gear Up to Watsonian’s café racer chic, aesthetics matter.

Top 5 Motorcycles with Sidecars for 2025

1. 2025 Ural Gear Up: The Rugged Adventurer

Why It’s Iconic: Ural has been the go-to sidecar brand since the 1940s, and the 2025 Gear Up proves why. With on-demand 2WD, a locking trunk, and a spare tire that fits all three wheels, this Russian-born (now Kazakh-built) beast is ready for mud, snow, or desert sand.

Key Upgrades:

• CV-joint driveshaft: Smoower handling on rough terrain.
• LED fog lights: Because adventures don’t stop at sunset.
• Price: Starting at $21,999—a steal for a rig that includes a shovel and jerry can.

FAQs:

• “Are Urals still made in Russia?” Nope! Production moved to Kazakhstan in 2022.
• “How fast do they go?” A comfy 70 mph—ideal for scenic rides, not highway sprints.

2. Harley-Davidson Road King + Champion Sidecar

Why It’s Newsworthy: Harley hasn’t made factory sidecars since the ’70s, but third-party builders like Champion are filling the gap. Pair a 2025 Road King with a retro-style sidecar, and you’ve got a head-turning rig with a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine (hello, 94 lb-ft of torque!).

Customization Galore:

• Leather seats, chrome accents, and vintage paint jobs.
• Price: Around $35,000+ for a full setup—budget extra for those “Hell Yeah, Brother” decals.

FAQs:

• “Why did Harley stop making sidecars?” They shifted focus to touring bikes but still endorse third-party builds.

3. Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT + Electric Sidecar Prototype

Why It’s Revolutionary: Honda’s teasing an all-electric sidecar prototype with solar charging and AI stability control. Paired with the Gold Wing’s DCT transmission, this rig could redefine eco-friendly touring.

Specs to Nerd Out On:

• Range: 200+ miles on a charge (sidecar battery included).
• Tech: Collision sensors, GPS, and a built-in espresso machine (okay, we made that last one up).

FAQs:

• “Are electric sidecars practical?” For city commutes and short tours—absolutely.

4. Royal Enfield Classic 500 + Watsonian Sidecar

Why It’s a Fan Favorite: This combo is pure café racer vibes at half the cost of a Ural. The Watsonian Grand Prix sidecar (starting at $6,895) bolts onto any Classic 500, offering a lightweight aluminum body and gel-coat color options.

Perks:

• Quick-detach mounts: Swap the sidecar for solo rides in minutes.
• Price: Around $15,000 total—perfect for retro lovers on a budget.

FAQs:

• “Are sidecars removable?” Yep! Watsonian’s design makes it easy.

5. Zero SR/S + Custom Electric Sidecar

Zero’s SR/S electric bike, paired with a modular sidecar, is a silent, emission-free way to haul groceries—or your kayak. With 70 lb-ft of instant torque, it’s zippier than most gas-powered rigs.

Bonus Features:

• Swappable modules: Turn the sidecar into a cooler or camping gear storage.
• Price: 28,000–28,000–32,000—tax credits included!

Vintage vs. Modern

Let’s break it down with a quick comparison:

Feature	Vintage (e.g., Ural cT)	Modern (e.g., Zero SR/S)
Price	$17,499+	$28,000+
Speed	70 mph max 4	85 mph+
Customization	Gel-coat colors, retro accents	Modular tech, eco-materials
Best For	Purists, off-grid adventures	Tech lovers, urban commuters

Verdict: Love history and simplicity? Go vintage. Crave tech and sustainability? Modern’s your jam.

3 Things to Know Before You Buy

1. Legality: Most states require a motorcycle license, but rules vary. California? Prepare for extra fees.
2. Hidden Costs:
   • Setup fees: Ural dealers charge up to $1,575 for assembly.
   • Insurance: Sidecars add 10–20% to premiums.
3. Safety Gear: Helmets for passengers (including dogs!) are non-negotiable.

Read: Buying a Sidecar Motorcycle in 2025: From Urals to DIY Kits

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hauling camping gear, your golden retriever, or just your inner child, 2025’s sidecar motorcycles blend practicality with personality. From Ural’s battle-tested Gear Up to Zero’s whisper-quiet electric rig, there’s a sidecar for every rider.