History's Most Famous War Bikes: From World War I to Modern Conflict

June 24, 2025

Motorcycles have played a crucial role in the wars of the 20th and 21st centuries. Their lightness, mobility, low cost, and ease of maintenance made them an indispensable tool for armies around the world. From the legendary BMWs of the Afrika Korps to the Harley-Davidsons that crisscrossed Europe with the Allies, war bikes have marked a turning point in military history.

In this article, I present a complete overview of the most famous military motorcycles, their characteristics, their role in wars, and the legends they left in their wake.

The Origin: The First War Motorcycles (1900-1918)

Although the motorcycle emerged in the late 19th century as a civilian means of transport, its military potential was quickly realized. As early as the Boer War (1899-1902) in South Africa, rudimentary motorcycles were used for messenger service and reconnaissance.

World War I: The Final Takeoff

During World War I (1914-1918), motorcycles proved their usefulness on the battlefield. They were ideal for transporting messages, conducting reconnaissance missions, and moving troops quickly over difficult terrain.

Featured Models:

• Triumph Model H (United Kingdom)

  • Considered "the first modern mass-produced motorcycle."

  • 550 cc single-cylinder engine.

  • Over 30,000 units were manufactured for the British Army.

  • It was used mainly by the "Dispatchers" or "Dispatch Riders".

• Douglas 2 ¾ HP

  • 350 cc twin-cylinder.

  • Very light and agile, ideal for difficult European terrain.

  • The British Army used it extensively, with over 70,000 units in service.

Tactical use:

• Replacing horses for messengers.

• Quick recognition in hard-to-reach areas.

• Light transport of weapons and supplies.

Historical anecdote:
Lawrence of Arabia (TE Lawrence), famous for his exploits in the Middle East, is said to have been a great advocate of motorcycles, both in war and in his civilian life, although his favorite model was a later one: the Brough Superior.

The Rise in World War II (1939-1945)

World War II was the golden age of military motorcycles. All sides used them extensively, developing specific and robust models, many of which have achieved legendary status.

Germany: Engineering at the Service of the Army

The Germans placed a heavy emphasis on motorcycles, both for reconnaissance and for elite units such as the Panzergrenadier.

BMW R75

• 745 cc boxer twin, air-cooled.

• Sidecar with side wheel drive.

• Gearbox with reverse gear and reduction gear.

• Extremely robust, designed for the toughest terrain (desert, mud, snow).

• Production: more than 16,500 units.

Zündapp KS 750

• Direct competitor of the BMW R75.

• 750 cc twin-cylinder.

• 2x2 traction with driving sidecar.

• Considered even more reliable than the BMW, although both shared many parts.

Technical curiosity:

• The Wehrmacht required Zündapp and BMW to standardize parts to facilitate field maintenance.

Other notable German models:

• DKW NZ 350 (used for liaison and escort).

• NSU 601 OSL (high-powered motorcycle for fast missions).

United States: Power and Reliability Made in the USA

The Allies weren't far behind. American brands produced true two-wheel icons.

Harley-Davidson WLA

• Nicknamed "The Liberator".

• 45 cubic inch (740 cc) V-Twin engine.

• Famous for its reliability and robustness.

• More than 90,000 units were manufactured.

• Emblem of American troops in Europe, especially during the liberation following the Normandy Landings.

Indian 741 Scout

• 500cc V-twin engine.

• Lighter than the Harley, ideal for courier and reconnaissance missions.

• Indian manufactured over 35,000 units for the Allied Forces.

Military use of Harley and Indian:

• Rapid transport of messages before widespread radio.

• Patrols, escorts and liaison between units.

• Iconic presence at victory parades.

United Kingdom and the Commonwealth

Norton 16H

• 490 cc single-cylinder engine.

• Considered the "standard bike" of the British Army.

• More than 100,000 units produced.

• Used in Europe, Africa and Asia.

BSA M20

• 500 cc single-cylinder engine.

• Extremely simple and reliable motorcycle.

• More than 125,000 units in service.

• They were used on all fronts, from the beaches of Normandy to Burma.

War Motorcycles in the Postwar and Cold War Period (1945-1990)

Although advances in armored vehicles and communications reduced the military use of motorcycles after World War II, they were still used in numerous conflicts.

Korean War (1950-1953)

• Models similar to those of World War II were used.

• The Harley-Davidson WLA and BSA M20 remained active.

Vietnam War (1955-1975)

• The jungle and difficult terrain limited the use of motorcycles.

• However, lightweight models were used for recognition:

  • Honda 90 cc and 125 cc.

  • Civilian motorcycles adapted for military use.

Modern Military Motorcycles: Technology and Specialization

In recent decades, military motorcycles have evolved into specialized models, prioritizing mobility in special operations and reconnaissance missions.

Special Forces and Elite Units

Kawasaki KLR 650 (Military Version M1030)

• 651 cc single cylinder, water cooled.

• Modified versions to run on JP-8 fuel (aviation diesel).

• Widely used by the US Marines and Special Forces.

Christini AWD 450

• All-wheel drive (AWD) motorcycle.

• Powerful 450cc engine.

• Ideal for extremely difficult terrain.

• Used by elite forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Rokon Trail-Breaker

• All-terrain motorcycle with two-wheel drive.

• Able to float on water.

• Used in logistics missions in inaccessible terrain.

War Motorcycles in Unconventional Conflicts

Insurgent groups, guerrillas, and irregular armies have turned motorcycles into an economical and effective weapon.

Examples:

• Chinese and Japanese motorcycles adapted as fast attack vehicles.

• ISIS and other groups in the Middle East using motorcycles for ambushes.

• Narco-guerrillas in South America using motorcycles in jungle environments.

Electric War Bikes: The Silent Future

Modern armies explore the advantages of electric motorcycles:

• Absolute silence, ideal for covert missions.

• Low maintenance.

• Increasing autonomy.

Examples:

• Zero MMX (United States).

• Sur-Ron e-bike for lightweight reconnaissance.

• Projects under development by the Pentagon and NATO.

War Motorcycles and Popular Culture

• Films like Indiana Jones , Saving Private Ryan and The Great Escape have immortalized military BMWs and Harleys.

• Collectors are desperately seeking restored original models.

• Historical events recreate parades with authentic war motorcycles.

Legend on Two Wheels

War motorcycles have evolved alongside armed conflicts. From the rudimentary messengers of the Great War to the sophisticated electric vehicles of today's commandos, they have proven to be much more than a vehicle: they are a symbol of speed, strategy, and endurance.

Throughout history, models such as the BMW R75, the Harley-Davidson WLA, and the Kawasaki KLR 650 have left their indelible mark on the battlefield and in the collective memory.

Do you own a military motorcycle or are you passionate about these historic models? Tell us about your experience and continue exploring the fascinating history of two-wheeled warfare.

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