The perception of "too high" mileage for a motorcycle largely depends on the bike's type, its maintenance history, and how it has been ridden, but general thresholds exist.
For motorcycles, what is considered "high mileage" typically falls between 20,000 to 50,000 miles. However, these figures are not uniform across all types of bikes and are influenced by the motorcycle's original design and purpose.
Understanding High Mileage by Motorcycle Type
Different categories of motorcycles are built with varying engine sizes and intended uses, which directly impacts their expected lifespan and what is considered significant mileage.
Mileage Thresholds
| Motorcycle Type | High Mileage Range (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Overall Average | 20,000 to 50,000 miles |
| Smaller Motorcycles (e.g., Sports Bikes) | 20,000 to 30,000 miles |
| Larger Motorcycles (e.g., Cruisers, Touring Bikes) | Around 50,000 miles |
- Smaller Motorcycles and Sports Bikes: Due to their high-revving engines and often performance-oriented design, sports bikes and other smaller motorcycles are often considered to have high mileage once they reach between 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Their engines are typically pushed harder and are built for performance rather than longevity over extreme distances.
- Larger Models like Cruisers and Touring Bikes: These motorcycles are designed for comfort and long-distance travel, featuring larger, often lower-revving engines built for durability. For such models, mileage around 50,000 miles is generally deemed high, but with proper maintenance, many can comfortably exceed this.
Beyond the Numbers: Other Considerations
While mileage figures provide a baseline, they don't tell the whole story. Several other factors influence whether mileage is truly "too high" for a motorcycle's condition and expected lifespan:
- Maintenance History: A motorcycle with 50,000 miles that has been meticulously maintained, with regular oil changes, valve adjustments, and timely servicing, can be in better condition than a 20,000-mile bike that has been neglected.
- Riding Style: Bikes ridden gently and primarily on highways will likely show less wear and tear than those used for aggressive city riding, track days, or off-road adventures, regardless of mileage.
- Age and Storage: A motorcycle with low mileage but significant age (e.g., 5,000 miles over 20 years) might have age-related issues such as deteriorated rubber components (tires, hoses, seals) or fuel system problems from long periods of inactivity.
- Brand and Model Reputation: Some motorcycle brands and specific models are renowned for their legendary reliability and ability to rack up hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues.
Ultimately, "too high" for motorcycle mileage is a nuanced concept. While specific mileage thresholds serve as a guide, the overall condition, maintenance, and type of motorcycle are crucial in determining its remaining lifespan and value.
