HS Code 87.11 – Motorcycles (including mopeds) and cycles; fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without side-cars; side-cars

HS code 8711 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Motorcycles (including mopeds) and cycles; fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without side-cars; side-cars. Heading 8711 encompasses a broad range of motorized two-wheeled vehicles, including motorcycles, mopeds, and cycles fitted with an auxiliary motor, along with their associated side-cars. This classification is crucial for international trade as it covers everything from high-performance sportbikes and heavy cruisers to electric motorcycles, scooters, and even certain types of motorized bicycles where the motor provides more than just pedal assistance. The key boundary here is the presence of an auxiliary motor, distinguishing these vehicles from non-motorized cycles in 8712. Sub-categories often delve into engine displacement (cc), power output (kW), and type of propulsion (internal combustion, electric), which can significantly impact tariffs, import duties, and regulatory requirements related to emissions and safety standards. For importers and exporters, accurate classification under 8711 is vital to avoid penalties, ensure compliance with national vehicle registration laws, and properly assess landed costs. Historically, this sector has seen significant innovation, from the early internal combustion engines to the current surge in electric mobility solutions, with manufacturing hubs shifting globally. As part of Section XVII, which covers vehicles, aircraft, and vessels, 8711 specifically addresses personal transport on two or three wheels, playing a significant role in both recreational and utilitarian travel worldwide.

Motorcycles (sport, cruiser, touring), electric motorcycles, scooters (gasoline, electric), mopeds, dirt bikes, mini bikes, pocket bikes (motorized), three-wheeled motorcycles (motorized tricycles), side-cars for motorcycles, motorized cycles with engine displacement up to 50cc, electric bicycles with a motor power exceeding certain thresholds (e.g., 250W or capable of propulsion without pedaling), motorcycle chassis fitted with engines, motorcycle engines imported with frames, children's motorized motorcycles (not toys), all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) designed as three-wheeled motorcycles, off-road motorcycles, snowmobiles (if considered a type of motorized cycle rather than another vehicle type), custom-built motorcycles, vintage motorcycles (motorized), police motorcycles, delivery scooters.

A common misclassification occurs when electric bicycles are incorrectly placed under 8711 instead of 8712, or vice versa. The distinction often hinges on the motor's power output and whether it can propel the vehicle without pedal assistance, as defined by national regulations. Vehicles that are clearly toys, even if motorized (e.g., small ride-on electric motorcycles for toddlers), should be classified under 9503 (Toys). Furthermore, some advanced three-wheeled vehicles, if designed more like small cars with enclosed cabins, might be confused with 8703 (Motor cars), but 8711 specifically covers those akin to motorcycles with side-cars or motorized tricycles.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8711 in UN Comtrade data were China ($18.4B, 39% of world exports), Japan ($3.7B) and India ($3.7B). World exports came to about $47.5B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 8711 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($3.3B, 8.3% of world imports), Germany ($3.0B) and the Netherlands ($2.2B). World imports came to about $39.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 8711 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 87 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (87) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (11) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.