We can’t tell you when the world will end, but we can tell you how: zombies. No we don’t have science or “facts” to back that up, but we do have a collection of movies, shows, and books that warn of our future undead overlords. When you’re on your own and the earth is going to shit, you’re going to need a vehicle. And while big, bad trucks might be nice for shelter, a motorcycle is more nimble (highway jams), can be more fuel efficient (stopping for gas might not be so easy), and they’re often a more affordable options. Need help finding yours? Here you go.
Kawasaki JP8/Diesel
Based off the Kawasaki KLR 650 (also a good choice if you can’t get your hands on this military model), the JP8/Diesel is designed to be lightweight but extremely rugged. First off, diesel is probably a benefit in an apocalypse scenario with most of the population wanting unleaded gasoline. Second, it’s actually a multi-fuel engine. And third, it claims to offer around 100 miles to the gallon. Good enough for the marines, good enough for us. Link
Motoped Survival Bike
The Motoped Survival Bike is like a set of K’Nex on wheels. The array of bolt-on mounts allow you to strap your gear and weapons right to your ride. The agile bike also boasts dual side-mounted fuel tanks allowing you to travel up to 500 miles without stopping at a zombie-infested gas station. Zombies love gas stations (see: Movies). Link
BMW R1200GS Adventure
A little bulkier than others on this list (even bulkier than the standard R1200GS), but bulk can be for added storage, and added storage is a good thing. The Adventure model also has improved suspension and more off-road touches. And while fuel storage is down compared to other models, it still gets a satisfying 400+ mile range. Added size, added weight, but also added durability. Link
Zero FX Stealthfighter
When you need to get up and go, you’ll be glad you have the Zero FX Stealthfighter. With 70 ft-lbs of torque, a lightweight body, and 44 horsepower, it’s more like a stealth jet. Here’s the only issue: It’s electric. That means the range is far from ideal (70 miles max), and that could cause problems. But for just blasting out of your neighborhood and finding shelter, this little vehicle of the night is pretty sweet. And if you can find places to charge it, you won’t have to deal with any gas crisis. Link
Sommer 462 Diesel
Like we said, we think a diesel vehicle would be a benefit in a time when everyone is trying to fill their gas tanks. Unfortunately many diesel motorcycles offer terrible power-to-weight ratios. The German brand Sommer actually makes seriously awesome diesel bikes, and the 462 Diesel would be a worthy companion when the apocalypse begins. Each is handmade, delivers solid torque, and offers great fuel economy. Link
Christini AWD 450 Military Edition
Even though it’s a Military edition, you can get your hands on this dirt-carver from Christini. Packed with a liquid cooled 450cc four-stroke, the Christini AWD 450 Military Edition has been used by the Navy SEALs and other special forces. It can be customized with plenty of accessories to make it ideal for you and the survival scenario you may find yourself in. Link
KTM 990 Adventure Baja Edition
If movies have taught use anything about the apocalypse, it’s that roadways will mysteriously be filled with large craters and insane traffic. For taking your survival off pavement, consider this KTM. Complete with a large fuel tank, a stowage compartment with an electric socket, and beefed up suspension and brakes, it’s perfect for a long off-road haul. Link
Tarus
This one is on here with a bit of a caveat. It’s not the motorcycle for the average person, but if you happen to live around huge hills or are worried about obstacles when shit goes down, Tarus is perfect. Yes, it only has 7 hp, but if you’re trapped, not every two-wheeler can get you out like Tarus can. It’s also surprisingly light, foldable, and able to make quick work of any terrain. Link
Jawa 250cc or 350cc (1960s)
Back in the late 1960s, The Last Whole Earth Catalog tried to determine what the best survival bike would be. After checking plenty out, they recommended just two. One was a BMW, and the other was this classic Jawa. It was designed to be so basic to fix that you wouldn’t need expensive, specific tools. The perfect easy bike for when times are tough. While times have changed and there are more powerful bikes that can travel greater distances, it’s still a solid option. Link
