BMW (113)
BMW motorcycles are called the "ultimate riding machines" and Bavarian Motor Works has been making the line since 1923. But the BMW bike wasn't particularly well-known before the 1990s--too expensive. The price differential has narrowed in the past decade, and the public has grown to appreciate the quality.

A few fans include the BMW Club of Southern California, with its motto, "ride to meet and eat," Oscar-winner and BMW RT100 owner Jeremy Irons, and a lifelong oil industry executive who has become a BMW motorcycle sales manager in his retirement.

BMW has also become more visible as the sponsor of an exhibit at the Venetian Guggenheim Museum, "The Art of the Motorcycle," featuring 130 classic bikes from all companies.