The fact that Motorcycle journalists coined a generic term – Universal Japanese Motorcycle - to describe late 1960s-1970s Japanese bikes from several manufacturers over several years implies a pretty unassuming aesthetic. But the writers weren’t making fun or collectively branding them as having bland design. Instead, they were merely pointing out how similar each of the bikes look to one another thanks to several copy cat product entries released in quick succession from the likes of Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha. Many say that the 1969 Honda CB750 started the UJM trend, which is characterized by a standard seating position, chrome front fender, air-cooled inline 4, individual carburetors for each cylinder, telescoping front fork, featherbed-style frame, Integrated engine and gearbox, and front disk brakes. 

Harley’s entry level Sportster has never been cooler thanks to special edition models like this Iron 883 ($7,999) and its 1200 CC Nightster ($9,999) counterpart. From the 13 spoke cast aluminum wheels and black denim paint to the chopped rear fender and front fork gaiters, it’s amazing how seemingly minor changes to color and trim can dramatically transform the character of a motorcycle. Not to say that we don’t like the base Sportster (883 Low) but its got nothing on this blacked out beauty.

We spotted this ultra-rare Moto Guzzi 1000S on West 23rd in Chelsea. The striking green and black livery, which extends from the sheet metal all the way through to the V7 frame and swing arm, represented one of two color combos available (orange and black was the other) during the brief production run (‘89-’93) of just 1,360 units. Although this green hornet is aged the better part of 20 years, the design was considered retro at the time, paying homage to the ‘74 750S and ‘75 740S3 models. Classic styling cues on this super clean example can be seen in the gas tank, side covers, seat, grab rails, taillight & bracket, fenders, headlight bucket and spoke wheels. Extensive use of chrome and polished parts brings out the disco era that much more.