Harley, Honda Target Younger Riders

Motorcycle makers Harley-Davidson (HOG Quote), Triumph and Honda (HMC Quote) are trying to reignite sales with new bikes designed for both die-hard enthusiasts and first-time buyers.

Sales of motorcycles fell 7.7% in 2008. While that decline is a fraction of the revenue lost by the auto industry, motorcycle companies are trying to win back customers with bikes that are sportier and fuel-efficient. Here are some of the most exciting motorcycles coming out.

Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883: Harley-Davidson's clientele is famously loyal, but they're also aging. The Milwaukee, Wis.-based company's average customer is 49, up from 42 five years ago. It's trying to appeal to younger generations with its new Sportster Iron 883.

At $7,899, the Iron 883 is the cheapest bike in Harley-Davidson's stripped-down Dark Custom series. It's designed to attract riders younger than 35, who favor sportier bikes over classic hogs. With its drag-style handlebar and front-fork gaiters, the Iron 883 targets rebels who want the rugged feel and high performance of a Harley without the flash and steep prices of its traditional bikes.

Triumph Bonneville T100: The sleek Bonneville debuted 50 years ago and became the bike of choice for James Dean, Bob Dylan and Marlon Brando. Production of the bike ended in 1988 after U.K-based Triumph went out of business, but the company reestablished itself several years ago. To mark the bike's anniversary, the company is issuing a special edition of the motorcycle.

The 50th Anniversary Bonneville T100 is designed with a retro orange-and-blue color scheme similar to the 1959 model. Only 650 models of the 50th edition will be produced. They're slated to sell for 6,499 British pounds, or about $9,480.