Most Rented Motorcycles in California — What Local Riders Actually Choose

Jul 21, 2025

California has more registered motorcycles than any other state by a long shot. With year-round sunshine, coastal highways, and mountain passes packed into one state, it’s no surprise that riders here stay active all year. But not everyone owns a bike full-time, and that’s where rentals come in. Motorcycle rentals in California give locals and visitors the chance to ride exactly what they want, whenever they want. In this blog, we’ll break down which bikes riders actually choose most and why they’re so popular across the state.

Popular Motorcycle Rentals in California

• BMW S 1000 R
• BMW R 1200 GS
• Yamaha MT-09 
• Triumph Street Triple R
• Honda Rebel 500
• Kawasaki Vulcan S Abs
• Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

BMW S 1000 R

Pictured: 2019 BMW S 1000 R in Los Angeles, California

The BMW S 1000 R takes the power and performance of a superbike and blends it with comfort and control, which is a big reason it’s a top pick in California. Riders here want something that can handle different types of roads without feeling like too much work, and this bike hits that balance. It’s built with the same engine as the S 1000 RR but tuned for smoother power delivery, making it great for weekend rides, day trips, or even commuting. The upright riding position helps cut down on fatigue, which matters when you’re stuck in traffic or heading up into the mountains. It also comes with advanced features like cornering ABS and dynamic traction control, giving riders more confidence in changing conditions. Between its performance, comfort, and tech, it’s a smart rental for anyone looking to make the most of California’s roads.

BMW R 1200 GS

Pictured: 2018 BMW R 1200 GS in Los Angeles, California

Sticking with BMW, the R 1200 GS is another model that sees a lot of rentals across California. This bike is built for riders who want comfort and stability on longer rides, especially when the route includes more than just city traffic. It has a strong twin-cylinder engine, adjustable suspension, and a riding position that keeps you comfortable for hours without feeling stiff or cramped.

What makes it a popular choice in California is how well it handles different riding conditions. Some renters take it through the mountains, others use it for longer weekend trips, and many choose it for how steady it feels on uneven or rougher roads. It also comes with helpful features like ride modes, traction control, and a large fuel tank, which makes it easier to cover more ground without frequent stops. For riders looking for something dependable, capable, and easy to manage over long distances, the R 1200 GS continues to be a go-to option.

Yamaha MT-09 

Pictured: 2019 Yamaha MT-09 in Los Angeles, California

The Yamaha MT-09 is a favorite among riders who want something lightweight, responsive, and fun to ride without giving up on comfort. It’s powered by a three-cylinder engine that delivers strong mid-range torque, which makes it quick off the line and easy to handle through tighter turns. That kind of performance in a smaller frame is exactly what appeals to a lot of California renters, especially in areas with heavier traffic or more stop-and-go riding.

It also stands out for how versatile it is. The upright seating position makes it comfortable enough for daily use, but the performance still holds up on longer rides. Riders like the throttle response, the adjustable suspension, and the overall feel of the bike. It’s sporty without being aggressive, and that balance is what keeps the MT-09 high on the list for those who want a ride that’s quick, capable, and easy to enjoy across different parts of the state.

Triumph Street Triple R

Pictured: 2019 Triumph Street Triple R

The Triumph Street Triple R has quickly become a favorite among riders in California who want something that feels quick and responsive without being too aggressive. It runs on a 765cc three-cylinder engine that delivers smooth power, which makes it feel fast without being hard to manage. Riders often point to how light the bike feels and how easy it is to handle in traffic or through more technical roads. The brakes and suspension are also well-tuned, so it feels steady even when you’re riding at a quicker pace. It’s the kind of bike that gives you a little more performance than something like the MT-09, but still feels comfortable enough for longer rides.

Honda Rebel 500

Pictured: 2017 Honda Rebel 500 near Irvine, California

The Honda Rebel 500 remains a popular rental in California because it’s approachable, reliable, and easy to handle without feeling underpowered. Its lower seat height and lightweight frame make it a smart choice for riders of different experience levels, especially those who want something comfortable for city riding or weekend trips. The engine is a 471cc parallel twin that offers smooth power delivery, and the overall design of the bike gives riders confidence without sacrificing style or performance. It also has a relaxed riding position that doesn’t wear you out, which is part of why it appeals to so many renters looking for a comfortable, no-stress option that still holds up across longer rides.

Kawasaki Vulcan S Abs

Pictured: 2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S Abs in Los Angeles, California

The Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS stands out as a cruiser that’s built with adjustability in mind, which is one of the main reasons it’s so popular among renters in California. What sets it apart is the ERGO-FIT system, which lets riders adjust the seat, footpeg position, and handlebar reach to better fit their height and riding style. That kind of flexibility makes it a great option for a wide range of riders, especially those who may not be used to cruiser ergonomics. It’s powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that feels responsive without being too aggressive, and the bike handles smoothly at both low and highway speeds. The addition of ABS adds another layer of confidence, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or unpredictable conditions. Because it blends comfort, stability, and a more customized fit, the Vulcan S ABS continues to be a top choice for California riders who want a cruiser that feels easy to ride without giving up on performance.

Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

Pictured: 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim near Los Angeles, California

Building off the appeal of cruisers, the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim offers something a little more classic in both style and feel. It’s designed with a lower profile, wide handlebars, and a stripped-down look that sticks to the basics, but still delivers the kind of smooth ride Harley is known for. California riders tend to gravitate toward it because of its comfort over longer distances and how stable it feels at lower speeds. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine gives it plenty of power, but it’s delivered in a way that feels controlled and manageable, even in traffic. What also makes it a popular rental is the overall riding experience—it’s not just about how it performs, but how connected it feels to the road, which is something a lot of riders look for when booking a cruiser.

Found Your Bike? Now Find Your Ride

Picking the right motorcycle is half the equation. The other half is knowing where to take it. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours across California led by locals who know the canyon roads, the coastal stretches, and the mountain passes that make each of these bikes shine. Whether you're renting a cruiser for PCH or a sport bike for Angeles Crest, a guided ride pairs you with someone who already has the route figured out.

Reviews from Happy Renters in California

“Amazing bike! Great communications with Ali both before, during and at the end of the rental. Planning on renting again.” - Einar (Honda Rebel 500 rental in Los Angeles, CA)

“Rented a motorcycle and had a great experience! Everything went smoothly, the bike was in excellent condition, and the service was friendly and professional. Highly recommend!” - Andrew (BMW G 310 R rental in Los Angeles, CA)

“Had fun taking this scooter up the PCH! Daniel was very accommodating and flexible. He met us before we booked to ensure we picked the right bikes; very helpful and professional. 5 stars!” - Heather (Piaggio Liberty 150 in San Diego, CA)

California Motorcycle Rental FAQ

How old do you have to be to rent a motorcycle in California?

In most cases, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old to rent a motorcycle in California. Some companies may allow rentals at 18, but options are usually limited and may come with extra restrictions or fees. If you’re 21 or older, you’ll have access to more bikes and fewer limitations, which is why most riders wait until then.

What do you need to rent a motorcycle in California?

To rent a motorcycle in California, you’ll need a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement, which California calls an M1 license. Most rental companies also require a credit or debit card for the booking, and depending on the bike you choose, you might need to meet extra requirements like experience level or additional verification. If you're visiting from out of state or abroad, make sure your license is still valid for motorcycle use in California, since not all international licenses are accepted.

Does California require insurance when renting a motorcycle?

Yes, insurance is required in California anytime you're riding on public roads, and that includes rentals. There are a few different ways renters usually meet this requirement:

• Built-in rental coverage: Some rental companies include basic liability coverage with the rental or offer it during checkout as an add-on.
• Personal insurance: If you already have motorcycle insurance, it might extend to rentals, but it’s important to double-check with your provider before assuming you're covered.
• Third-party policies: You can also buy separate rental insurance from an outside company if the rental service doesn’t offer what you need.

Keep in mind, liability insurance covers damage or injuries to others—it doesn’t cover the rental bike itself. If you want protection for the bike, you’ll usually need to add extra coverage during the booking process.

Is lane splitting in California legal?

Yes, lane splitting is legal in California, which makes it pretty unique compared to other states. Still, just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it should be done without caution. The CHP recommends splitting only when traffic is slow or stopped and avoiding it at high speeds or between larger vehicles. If it’s something you’ve never done before, it’s a good idea to read up on safe lane splitting practices before trying it during your rental.

Browse the Most Popular Motorcycle Rentals in California

If one of these bikes sounds like the right fit, you can book it directly through Riders Share. We offer motorcycle rentals in California across every major city, with options that match what local riders actually choose. From comfortable cruisers to high-performance sportbikes, these rentals are available from real riders who keep their bikes in great shape. You can search by location, price, and style, so it’s easy to find a motorcycle that fits your ride. Check out what’s available and book your next California rental today!