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The Best Sport Touring Motorcycles You Can Buy

[2024 edition].

Updated August 31, 2023 by Simon Bertram

For When The Road Calls Your Name

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These are the best sport tourers you can buy in 2023:

BMW R 1250 RS

Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT

Kawasaki Ninja 650

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

Honda NC750X DCT

Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro

Ducati Multistrada V2

Motorcycles come in all shapes and sizes, from sleek, aerodynamic supersports to laid back, wind-in-your-face cruisers. There are bikes made for short trips around town, little runabouts that don't need a lot of power. There are continent crushing bikes that you ride when you're planning on up a month on the road.

With so many types and classes of bikes out there, it's only natural that at some point, many started to cross over and meld into each other. This is precisely what happened when supersports met up with standard-style touring motorcycles, and from that marriage came sport tourers. These are bikes that have good power, agile and responsive handling, but are also immensely comfortable for longer rides with raised handlebars, plusher seats, and sometimes even come with mount points for soft or hard case luggage either side of the tail.

There is also another type of sport tourer that is mostly European based, known as a sport adventure tourer. These take their styling cues from ADV motorcycles, but makes them more comfortable for longer distance road use, tuning the engines for mid-range cruising power, and often come with built in amenities such as plug-ins for heated gear, GPS navigation mounting brackets, and the like.

With all that said, these are, in no particular order, the best sport tourers your can buy in 2023!

About Our Selections

These selections considered ease of use, rideability, price, and how effective each motorcycle was achieving the stated goal of its class. We are confident that any of these bikes will be superb options for most riders.

To qualify for this list, the motorcycle can be of any base type, but oriented towards touring, meaning a sport-standard or standard seating style, touring-style handlebars vs clip-ons, and in most cases a touring oriented windscreen or wind deflector.

2023 BMW R 1250 RS

The bike most people think of when hearing the words "sport tourer," with good reason

Why We Picked It:

To be honest, this was the first bike that popped into our heads the moment this list was proposed. BMW is famously known for their touring motorcycles such as their entire K 1600 lineup, but they also have a seriously sport oriented side, with the S1000 RR superbike being a perfect example.

Many a moon ago, BMW decided to marry the two styles of bikes into two amazing bikes, the R 1250 RS and the R 1250 RT . For this list, we've picked the RS, as its name literally means "Road Sport." It is am immensely capable sport tourer, as it takes all of the lessons learned from the K series of bikes, and brings over the capable 1,254cc boxer twin from the ADV side of things, which brings 136 HP and 105 lbs-ft of torque to the table.

What you get is a BMW that is comfortable but sporty, with a low center of gravity, some of the best riding dynamics this side of a track bike, and even a shaft drive so there's no chance of a chain snapping when you're at the top of the Swiss Alps. It also comes as standard with BMW's excellent in-house ABS and traction control, three riding modes for all weather conditions, and one of the clearest, most easy to read TFT dashes on the market.

This is a bike that was made from the very start to be the ultimate riding machine for long distance touring, and to be honest, from how many are sold and ridden across Europe yearly, we think they've nailed it.

Specifications:

Price: $15,695

Engine: 1,254cc boxer twin

Power: 136 HP

Torque: 105 lbs-ft

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual

Curb Weight: 536 lbs

Has everything a sport tourer needs: comfort, accessories, luggage mount points, and a low center of gravity to keep the bike planted and agile for when you want to get some fun going

BMW's excellent rider aids on full display, with dual zone and cornering ABS, traction control, variable riding modes, throttle by wire, and easy access to settings on the fly with the left hand toggle wheel.

Learn More:

2023 BMW R 1250 RS specs, features, & pics

2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT

Suzuki's new sport tourer is an amazingly competent piece of kit

With only a couple of seasons under its belt, we can honestly say that the Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT is one of the more well-rounded sport tourers we've come across. It is the quintessential definition of a sport tourer, taking the long-serving engine from the GSX-S1000 , fiddling with its timings and settings a bit, and then planting it a modified frame of said bike.

The result is an immensely powerful motorcycle that has extremely linear power delivery, is hugely comfortable, has mounting points all over for tank bags, side luggage, a top case, can carry a passenger without any issue, and just does it all in that efficiently Japanese way. It is also amazingly agile for its size, as it's almost twice as wide as the superbike it got its engine from, gracefully carving corners with confidence so you can appreciate the view as you round the next corner on the mountain road.

It is also one of the bikes using Suzuki's new SIRS system (Suzuki Intelligent Ride System), which has low-RPM assist, intelligent traction control, selectable ride modes, and throttle by wire that is constantly adjusted so you get the most performance per millimeter of throttle twist, without spinning up the rear or having it slide out on a sudden patch of gravel or water.

The standard GT does not come with hard-case luggage, but does include the mount points. If you want it to come with fully installed lockers, it's just $600 more with the GT+, which also includes a few minor things like different paint options and such.

Price: $13,349

Engine: 999cc inline four

Power: 150 HP

Torque: 79.6 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 498 lbs

Takes bulletproof performance engine from the superbike side and makes it into a sport-touring friendly, happy-to-cruise-for-ages touring engine that can still wake up the sporty side if you crank on some throttle.

The SIRS system keeps the bike always in the optimum riding setup depending on the selected ride mode. Intelligent traction control is also top notch, preventing rear wheel spin ups and skids on slippery stuff faster than you could close the throttle.

2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT specs, features, & pics

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650

A supremely comfortable and capable sport tourer for the newer or even beginner rider

This pick started a bit of a debate among the editors and writers here at webBikeWorld. There were discussions about which Kawasaki deserved the place... the ultra-powerful touring cruise missile, the H2 SX SE ? The long-serving Ninja 1000 SX ? After all the facts were laid down, we picked the Ninja 650 .

The primary reason we picked it came down to just how approachable it is. While many of us are intermediate to veteran skill riders, we all need to remember that there are new riders out there, almost every day, that are looking at a first or second bike. The Ninja 650 has the power, agility, and responsiveness to plant a huge grin on your face, but it is also extremely capable of just cruising along a coastal highway or up a mountain road, letting the new rider experience what sport touring is all about.

Being a Kawasaki, the other half of the decision was that absolutely everything including the faucet attached to the kitchen sink is jammed into the Ninja 650, and then the bike is put on sale at a ludicrously affordable price. Dual zone ABS, cornering ABS, traction control, stability control, bluetooth connectivity, riding modes, a saddke with an amazingly comfortable amount of plushiness, and mid-rear pegs for if you want to get your lean on, but don't cramp your legs up like a supersport would.

It's all there, for the beginner and the veteran, to just go out and ride . And that's the point of it all, isn't it?

Price: $7,999

Engine: 649cc parallel twin

Power: 68 HP

Torque: 47.2 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 419 lbs

For beginner and veteran alike, one of the best sport tourers available. Comfortable, agile, competent, planted, and just a joy to ride, it's guaranteed to have you smiling every time you go touring on it

Jam packed of all the rider aids a beginner might want, and an experienced rider appreciates.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 specs, features, & pics

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

All the power and fun KTM provides, with some hard luggage and a touring windscreen. Sounds good to us!

KTM's own marketing takes care of the byline for us: "The 1290 Super Duke GT is a comfortable ballistic missile," which is understandable as the 1290 Super Duke S and R are both very rapid when the right wrist is opened up. But, what would happen if it was tuned slightly more towards mid-throttle cruising, had a touring windshield installed, and given a set of hard luggage?

The answer is the 1290 Super Duke GT , KTM's only sport tourer, and it comes packed with all the goodies you'd expect from the Austrians. Electronic cruise control, heated grips, semi-active and electronically adjustable WP suspension, dual-zone and cornering ABS, 6-axis stability and traction control... it's all standard on the GT.

While the hard luggage is an additional cost, the mounting points are part of the frame and thus are standard as well, so pretty much any luggage will fit. It also, for a KTM at least, has a seat that can actually be called plush. Not soft, mind you, but thicker than the average plank of wood that KTM seats are known to feel like.

Of course, with the Duke as part of its name, it also comes with switchable rear ABS and traction control, should you wish to wag the tail a bit around a few corners.

Price: $19,799

Engine: 1,301cc V-twin

Power: 171 HP

Torque: 104 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 496 lbs

A hooligan in a hiking jacket, it's pure KTM underneath the touring additions, so you know it's going to be fun as hell to ride

KTM is known for making superbly practical dirt and ADV bikes, and they've applied that same mindset of practicality to the GT, making it a very capable sport tourer

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT specs, features, & pics

2023 Zero DSR/X

The first proper attempt at an electric sport tourer that can be ridden all day long from Zero, and it's pretty damned good

Put down the torches and pitchforks, dear readers, and let us explain this choice.

For years now, Zero has been putting out road and dual-sport bikes, and despite some controversies here and there, they have been successful enough to put the time and research into making an adventure tourer. The DSR/X is brand new for 2023, boasting the newest long distance battery pack and the newest DC motor, and is also the most powerful bike Zero has made in terms of sheer grunt at 166 lbs-ft of torque.

While other bikes in Zero's lineup will get 70, 80, sometimes 100 or 110 miles per charge, the DSR/X is rated for up to 180 miles per charge. It is marketed towards the ADV side of things, and it honestly can get off road and dirty, but if you really peer at it without any cynicism, it is set up for sport touring, with a little adventure sprinkled in.

We think that while it may not be perfect, and it already has competition in the form of the Energica Experia from Europe, it is definitely a step in the right direction towards convincing the world that electric sport tourers might just be a viable option in the near future.

Price: $19,995

Engine: Z-Force 75-10X brushless DC motor

Power: 100 HP equivalent

Torque: 166 lbs-ft

Transmission: Clutchless Direct Drive

Curb Weight: 544 lbs

Both a sport tourer and an ADV, it can do both with the flick of a setting button on the left button box

The longest range Zero motorcycle yet, and is also capable of supercharging at a Level 3 charge station to fill up in about an hour

2023 Zero DSR/X specs, features, & pics

2023 Honda NC750X DCT

An adventure tourer with the spirit of a sportbike inside, with the added bonus of an automatic transmission

The NC750X DCT is one of those sport adventure tourers that rides the razor's edge between a full ADV and a sport tourer. What tips it towards the touring side for us is simply the practicality that Honda have designed into the machine.

Firstly, there's the DCT, and it's the only option for this bike. Now, we know, not shifting your own gears can be considered heresy, but when you've been riding for 6 or 7 hours (and taking appropriate rest breaks!), would you really curse a transmission that handles all the gear changes for you, so you can focus on the road and riding? If you really want to shift your own, there are two toggle buttons on the handlebars as well.

The other aspect that makes it great for sport adventure touring is that the "tank" up top isn't really a tank... it's a storage cubby, which is large enough that it can just about fit a helmet in. The actual tank, a 3.8 gallon unit, is under the seat, behind the 745cc parallel twin with 58 HP and 51 lbs ft of torque. It also has built in mount points for side luggage that double as grab handles for the pillion.

As we said, Honda really thought through this bike to make it a great tourer.

Price: $9,399

Engine: 745cc parallel twin

Power: 58 HP

Torque: 51 lbs-ft

Transmission: 6 Speed Dual-Clutch Semi-Automatic

Curb Weight: 493 lbs

A practical, capable motorcycle that has all the amenities you need at a superb price point

Not really set up to be an ADV, as there is no bash plate, no hand guards or extra grippy pegs on the accessories list... it's meant for road going adventures, not dirt ones

2023 Honda NC750X specs, features, & pics

2023 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro

What happens when you take a good ADV and make it into a great sport adventure tourer

Triumph's Tiger lineup can be a bit packed, as there are so many variants and submodels that it can be hard to pick out your choice. For us, if we wanted a sport tourer, we'd choose the Tiger 900 GT Pro .

Firstly, it's the most feature packed of the bunch. It has Triumph's full suite of rider aids, including cornering ABS, traction control, shift assist, and a fully integrated TPMS. It also comes as standard with heated rider and pillion seats, so if you're touring up in the mountains, you can keep your legs and butt toasty warm.

It also comes with what Triumph have called the RSU, or Rear Suspension Unit, exclusive to the GT Pro. This is an electronically controlled, on-the-fly adjustable rear suspension that has four preload settings and nine damping settings, all done from the TFT and handlebars. So, if you need to pick up a passenger halfway through your ride, with just a few taps on the screen and a button press on the handlebar, it's set up to handle the added weight.

Yes, it might seem a bit pedantic, but after you've wrenched your rear preload a few times manually, it's the little things like that that make it worth the extra $2,000 over the regular Tiger 900 GT!

Price: $16,895

Engine: 888cc inline three

Power: 94 HP

Torque: 64 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 427 lbs

Comes as standard with all the tech and amenities that are options on the Tiger 900 GT, including all the rider aids

Same capabilities as the Tiger 900 Rally, but designed with long-distance pavement tours in mind with a bit firmer suspension and bit softer of a saddel

2023 Triumph Tiger 900 GT / GT Pro secs, features, & pics

2023 Ducati Multistrada V2

Almost literally a Swiss Army Knife of a motorcycle, it just does everything

Ducati's flagship sport adventure tourer, the Multistrada V4 , could have taken this spot, but we chose its little brother, the Multistrada V2 , instead.

For the simple reason that while the smaller brother has all the same tech, gadgets, capabilities, and comfort of the big brother, it comes in for just under $10,000 less.

If you look at it from the angle of an adventure bike, you might miss the fact that while it does have that capability, the Multistrada's strength lies in its name. Multi = many, Strada = street. It is designed for, made for, and oriented towards grand touring, on "multiple streets" such as city roads, highways, motorways, interstate... you get the point.

And don't worry about being down on power, as the 937cc V-twin at the heart of the Multistrada thumps out 113 HP and 71 lbs-ft of torque, with the bike weighing in at a reasonable 445 lbs. It has optional hard luggage, but even if you don't buy them, the mount points are still part of the base bike, so if you ever want to take a longer road trip on the Ducati, you'll always have the option to add some panniers on.

Price: $18,895

Engine: 937cc V-twin

Power: 113 HP

Torque: 71 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 445 lbs

Ducati's Swiss Army Knife bike. It goes everywhere, does everything, and does it all competently and confidently.

Its very name means "multiple streets," so if ever there was a bike designed to be a sport adventure tourer, this is it.

2023 Ducati Multistrada V2 specs, features, & pics

Other Best Motorcycle Lists

See all our motorcycle lists .

The Best Adventure Motorcycles [2024 Edition]

The Best Cruisers Under $15,000 [2024 Edition]

The Best Scrambler Motorcycles [2024 Edition]

The Best Touring Motorcycles [2024 Edition]

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Top Sport Touring Motorcycles On The Market

Cover long distances in style and at great speed

Read update

What exactly is a sports touring motorcycle? How do manufacturers define the balance between ‘sport’ and ‘touring’? Does there have to be an equal balance or do some factors have greater significance over others? What isn’t in doubt are the basic elements that need to be in place: comfort, practicality, dynamics, performance, and - maybe not as important - style and technology.

While sports motorcycles are great for riding fast on the track and aren't that comfortable to travel on. Touring motorcycles, on the other hand, are great for going long distances with an emphasis on rider comfort. Sports touring motorcycles provide the best of both worlds - giving you the ability to go fast and long distances at the same time. This is courtesy of a number of features like wind protection thanks to larger fairings, a transmission that usually has lower gearing, and luggage storage options, among other amenities.

Sport touring motorcycles must be able to strike a balance between all the elements . They are also attractive models for manufacturers as they can adapt out-and-out sports models into more accessible touring motorcycles without large amounts of resources in the form of time and money being spent. With this in mind, there is a large choice available so, to help you decide, we’ve rounded up our favorite sports touring models available to buy new in 2024.

The sport touring category is increasingly becoming more competitive, and this list aims to help you make a more informed choice before you get started on your journey. This list has been updated to include the most recent improvements and updates from all the manufacturers that offer sports tourers, as well as highlighting the best options and features they have included. Older entries have been updated with relevant information, while we have also added new motorcycles to make sure you have all the useful data on your hands while making a purchase.

In order to give you the most up-to-date information possible, the data used to complete this article was sourced directly from the manufacturer's website alongside authoritative sites. The models are listed in terms of their MSRPs, from the lowest to the highest.

10 Fastest Sports Touring Motorcycles

20 cfmoto 650 adventura, starting msrp: $6,799.

CFMoto offers a variety of affordable motorcycles in the small to middleweight segment. Of these, the 650 ADVentura is its mainstay sport tourer that comes with a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 649cc parallel-twin motor that generates 60 horsepower at 8,750 rpm and 41.3 pound-feet of torque at 7,000 rpm. It comes with a 6-speed gearbox and a slip/assist clutch.

Performance Specifications

In terms of specifications, it has 17-inch cast wheels, an adjustable rear shock, an upside-down adjustable front fork, J. Juan brakes, dual-channel ABS, and a full LED light setup with a 5-inch TFT LCD. It also gets a standard height-adjustable windshield, hard luggage bags from Shad, and a USB charging port on the dash - complementing its touring focus rather well.

• Great option for beginner riders
• Accessible and affordable
• Lightweight
• May feel underpowered for advance riders
• Limited dealer network

19 Honda CB500X

Starting msrp: $7,299.

Honda has an extensive track record of producing a number of incredibly well-liked entry-level motorcycles. For those who want to begin touring, the CB500X is the perfect starter bike . It is based on the 471cc Honda platform and features anti-lock brakes, a lightweight construction, a small frame, and an instrument cluster that gives you all the information you need for your trip, making it an enjoyable ride on any road.

Its small weight and lightweight design provide a fun ride on all kinds of roads. The bike has handholds for a passenger if you choose to ride with one, and the tall windscreen will help protect you from the wind. It's not meant to penalize you; rather, it's meant to help you ride for longer periods of time, much like the ideal mentor.

• Reliable beginner bike
• Taller riders may not feel as comfortable
• The stock windscreen could be better
• A tad bit underpowered

18 Honda NC 750X DCT

Starting msrp: $9,499.

It's unfortunate that the NC750X is frequently overlooked by motorcyclists, as its affordable pricing, comfortable ride, and automated dual-clutch gearbox make it an excellent touring bike for novices, until they're ready to upgrade to bigger, more powerful models, maybe even a full-on Adventure bike .

Thanks to the incorporated 23-liter (6-gal) storage capacity where the gas tank would normally be, this bike is not your average road tourer. Practicality personified, the middle-weight tourer from Honda is an able bike, to be sure.

For an enjoyable ride, the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) makes gear changes easier. It's a solid low-cost touring choice because of its gracious fuel tank, exceptional fuel efficiency, and comfortable riding position. It may not be the most thrilling option, but it is unquestionably solid.

• Well-equipped
• Ample storage space
• Lacks a sporty personality
• No low seat option – could be a dealbreaker for many
• Lacks power for highway hustling

The Most Efficient Touring Motorcycles: Top 10 Picks

17 triumph tiger 850 sport, starting msrp: $12,290.

There might not be a better middleweight tourer than Triumph's Tiger Sport 850 for riders looking to advance from a beginning option. With an inline-three engine and 84 horsepower, it has a lot of 'zip' and personality. It will keep you busy while you speed through the corners on your long-mile journeys.

You won't even have to trim down on your luggage thanks to Triumph's accessory catalog and a big aftermarket that abounds in storage choices. Triumph has a wide range of Tiger models, but for sport touring specifically, that too, with a little extra oomph, the Sport 850 is the best option.

• Refined engine
• Comfortable ergonomics
• Modern features
• The stock windscreen is inadequate for long highway stretches

16 Kawasaki Concours 14

Used price: $13,595 ( per kbb ).

At first glance, the Kawasaki Concours 14 looks like a ZX-14R fitted with panniers, and you would be half-right. The Concours 14 is marketed as a sort of ultimate sport-touring bike for the Supersports market, featuring elements from the ZX-14R such as its monocoque frame and sporty looks. Compared to its competitors, the electronics found on the Concours 14 are minimal but adequate. Kawasaki Traction Control and their K-ACT ABS systems allow riders to enjoy a safer journey, while TPMS and a fuel economy assistance mode are also nice-to-have features.

• The smooth inline-four engine
• Sporty stance
• You get luggage as standard fitment
• Out of production
• Electronic aids? What are those?
• Dated styling

15 Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello

Starting msrp: $15,490.

Unique among European and Japanese manufacturers, Moto Guzzi relies solely on a single engine - in this case, the transverse V-twin - for its entire model range, whether it’s a retro café racer or a full-house cruiser. While the engine remains, there is a sign on the new V100 Mandello that Guzzi is looking to the future with more contemporary designs.

The V100 Mandello is being pitched as a Grand Tourer with the added spice of a strong dash of sportiness. Much of that sporty element comes from the rumbling exhaust note of the 1,024cc V-Twin, not something you always associate with a touring bike. Perhaps not the most practical, the Mandello has an emphasis on sport, rather than touring, but as a slice of Italian style, it has a lot going for it.

• Excellent mid-range power
• Rider aids and a host of tech
• Gorgeous looks
• Expensive for what it offers
• More capable Japanese options
• The separate button for the electric screen is just irritating

10 Most Extreme High-Performance Sports Tourers

14 kawasaki ninja 1000 sx, starting msrp: $13,699.

Think of this as a natural rival to the Suzuki GSX -S1000 GT, having largely the same beginnings. In this case, the basis of the Ninja 1000 SX is the Z1000 naked sport bike and the SX appeared in 2010, making it one of the oldest models on this list. Constantly updated over the years in nearly every area, the Ninja 1000 SX is simple yet brilliant , offering huge, silky-smooth performance on a chassis that offers sporty handling while maintaining a good dose of practicality and being well-equipped. It may lack the cachet of the H2 SX SE+, but at the price, it is just as good in its own way.

• Classy styling and looks
• Great touring friendly-ergonomics
• Classic-Ninja handling
• Might prove heavy for some riders
• The windshield isn’t that effective

13 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT+

Starting msrp: $14,199.

The old GSX-S1000 F was a good motorcycle, but it was just a little bland, even if the performance generated by its 2005 GSX-R1000 engine was anything but. If anything, the bike as a whole was a little too much GSX-R1000 and not enough sport tourer. At first, it is easy to look at the GSX-S1000 GT as a mildly warmed-over GSX-S1000 F, but in reality, that GT name is completely accurate.

The looks are massively improved, the fairing and screen -non-adjustable - excellent, and the luggage of very good quality. Comfort is acceptable, rather than outstanding, and the riding position is on the sporty side, but not excessively so. Suzuki has done a great job of upgrading the model and the engine remains one of the best inline four-cylinder units available today: smooth and characterful, with bags of punch at any revs in any gear. It can be a bit thirsty if you are pushing on, but with a relatively hard seat, stopping often might not be a bad thing.

• Ride quality
• Powerful braking setup
• A truly great inline-four
• Stock seat isn't the most plush
• Its looks can divide opinions

10 Reasons To Choose The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ For Your Next Touring Adventure

12 bmw r 1250 rs, starting msrp: $15,995.

The R 1250 RS is evidence, if any were needed, that the 1254cc Shiftcam-equipped, variable valve timing boxer twin engine is a brilliantly versatile and flexible unit, doing service on adventure bikes, touring bikes, and this rather lovely sports tourer. Basically, the R 1250 RS with a half-fairing exudes all the BMW qualities of excellent engineering and build quality with some well-thought-out touches, 136 horsepower, excellent torque, and a very well-sorted chassis to keep things interesting when the bends arrive, but with enough comfort to make eating up the highway miles very easy indeed. It looks great, and if pricey, makes an interesting choice for this brand.

• The trusted 1,254cc boxer engine
• The boxer setup keeps engine mass down low
• Improved handling
• BMW builds faster, more capable touring bikes
• The wheelbase isn't the most generous
• A lot of vibrations

11 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+

Starting msrp: $16,499.

What a hit the MT-09 platform has been for Yamaha, from the original naked roadster to the retro XRS900 and then the Tracer 9 GT. The all-new Tracer 9 GT+ builds on the excellent Tracer 9 GT’s qualities of comfort, sparkling performance, and an excellent chassis by adding radar-guided cruise control and a unified braking system to the already impressive package that includes semi-active suspension, heated grips, cruise control, and quickshifter.

If some of Yamaha’s recent styling efforts wouldn’t have been out of place in a Transformers movie, then the Tracer 9 GT+ actually dials the angularity down a little to make this one of the best-looking of the MT-09 family. If 889cc sounds a little tame, then the performance is anything but. A great sports tourer overall.

• Seating position of an ADV, but rides like a sport-tourer.
• Its sub-500-pound weight
• A robust triple
• May feel underpowered compared to other options
• ADAS and radar may feel overwhelming to get used to
• Still not the most comfortable bike

10 Most Underrated Touring Bikes Ever

10 bmw s 1000 xr, starting msrp: $17,495.

Similar in concept to the Multistrada, the S 1000 XR does what the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT does so well. Take a sporting model and turn it into a sports tourer. In this case, the donor bike is the S 1000 R package and the XR adds taller suspension, a larger screen, and much more relaxed ergonomics.

The engine is the 1000cc inline four-cylinder as found in the S1000R, which means 165 horsepower of smooth, high-revving action. This might feel and sound strange in an adventure bike-tall package, but in practice, it works extremely well. The chassis is excellent, the comfort the same, the electronics cover any eventuality, and the build quality and design are typical BMW.

• Comes fully-loaded
• Best-in-class handling
• Premium build quality
• Not as sporty as before
• Taller riders may feel cramped

9 Yamaha FJR1300ES

Starting msrp: $18,299.

The Yamaha FJR1300ES is a large sport-touring motorcycle that offers both a fast and comfortable ride from point A to point Z. The bike has two modes — T-Mode and S-Mode. This allows riders to adjust the throttle response whether they want their bike to have a sporty feel or a touring orientation.

The FJR1300ES is a heavy bike, but it makes up for this with all the features loaded into it. Yamaha added fully-adjustable electronic suspension and a fairing-mounted storage box, alongside standard hard cases. There are more reasons than you can count.

• Throttle response is unparalleled
• Yamaha's reliability
• Ready to tour
• Comes with a lot of heft
• Not the most exciting-looking bike

10 Things Yamaha Owners Love About Their Bikes

8 kawasaki versys 1000 lt, starting msrp: $18,899.

Interestingly, every Versys model finds itself on a significant number of our "best of" lists. We don't see any reason why the Versys 1000 LT shouldn't be on this list of the finest touring bikes. At almost $19,000, it's not inexpensive, but Kawasaki crammed a ton of amenities into the bike's frame.

The Showa suspension is electronically adjustable, and a rapid shifter designed to facilitate your shifts. Thanks to the cornering management feature, you have traction control, and you get ABS as standard, of course. Additionally, you can connect your cell phone to the big TFT screen. However, Kawasaki left the best for last by adding heated grips, cruise control, and integrated side cases.

• Powerful engine
• Adjustable suspension
• Exceptional comfort
• Some riders may find its host of electronic aids overwhelming
• Lack of color options

7 Ducati Multistrada V2S/V4S

Starting msrp: $19,295/$27,195.

In reality, the Multistrada V4 does nothing that the V2 version can’t do , it just does it faster and also costs more. Whichever version you opt for, Multistrada is an impeccable performer. With a brilliant chassis and a tall, upright riding position, it might not be for everyone, but it is just so effective.

It’s one of those multipurpose motorcycles that performs both roles brilliantly. On the sporting side, the Multistrada has all of the Ducati sporting DNA coursing through its chassis with a small dose of off-road ability thrown in for good measure, although you’d be better off leaving that bit for the Multistrada V4 Rally, which is the all-singing, all-dancing adventure model. Ducati has worked hard on its reliability and the V4 motor in particular comes with 9,000 mile service intervals. If you can afford it, you’ll want to go on a long journey just for the sake of it: it’s that good.

• Great road manners
• All the Ducati goodness
• High ownership cost

2024 Ducati Multistrada V4 S Grand Tour: Everything You Need To Know

6 ktm 1290 super duke gt, starting msrp: $19,799.

Take one of the most insane naked sports bikes and slap a fairing and panniers on, and hey presto, an insane sports touring bike. If 173 horsepower isn’t enough for you, then you’re shopping in the wrong category. If the raucous nature of the 1290 Super Duke has been tamed, then it’s not by much, but KTM has done an excellent job of giving the GT the comfort and ergonomics it needs, along with enough electronics to launch a satellite.

High-spec WP Apex suspension combined with KTM’s signature steel trellis frame gives handling dynamics you just don’t find on other bikes on this list. It is so without ever being harsh, while the six-gallon gas tank gives excellent range and the luggage options cover virtually any eventuality or planned trip. Never has riding far away been so much fun.

• The aggressive design
• KTM's 1300cc motor
• Remarkable performance and handling
• Pillion comfort isn't the greatest
• Its suspension gives it a stiff ride quality
• No color options

5 BMW R 1250 RT

Starting msrp: $19,995.

BMW has an array of touring options for you. The BMW R 1250 RT is the more relaxed sibling of the R 1250 RS, featuring a more comfortable riding position alongside an electronic suite that satisfies all the needs for touring. The bike aims to merge sport and luxury on two wheels, and its performance and features allow it to do just that.

Riders can also opt to pay a bit more for active cruise control, which allows riders to set their speed and distance from vehicles thanks to a radar sensor. As with a lot of BMW's bikes, the list of optional add-ons for the bike is extensive, allowing for a more curated feel off the factory floor.

• The 10.25" TFT Display
• Not for tall riders
• Some features are buried deep inside the menu

4 BMW M 1000 XR

Starting msrp: $24,295.

The third bike with the M badge from BMW comes in the form of the M 1000 XR . Thanks to amazing M performance racing components from its fast siblings and outstanding XR characteristics for long-distance touring, it's beyond any other touring bike that will be on the market in 2024. A 999cc liquid-cooled ShiftCam inline-four engine producing 201 horsepower and 83 pound-feet of torque powers the lightweight sport tourer, enabling a top speed of 170 MPH.

Numerous standard safety features are included, including dynamic damping control (DDC), dynamic traction control (DTC), automatic hill start control (HSC), dynamic brake control (DBC), and ride modes. A TFT display, cruise control, heated grips that are adjustable, adaptive headlamps, keyless start, and cruise control are the creature pleasures on the bike. What a package!

• High-performance engine
• Advanced electronics
• Aggressive styling
• Might be too intimidating for most riders
• High maintenance cost

The All-New BMW M 1000 XR Makes Touring On A Sport Bike A Reality

3 mv agusta turismo veloce lusso scs, starting msrp: $25,498.

The MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS is a bike that allows riders to travel in style. It might not have a name that rolls off the tongue, but it does have MV Agusta's signature quality hallmarks, such as semi-active suspension and the Smart Clutch System (SCS). Riders don't need to worry about comfort, as the bike has heated grips, Bluetooth, cruise control, a GPS sensor, and an adjustable windshield. The growl of the inline-three engine and the aggressive looks will remind riders that they are riding an MV Agusta.

• Has beautiful, sultry looks
• Semi-active electronic suspension
• Zippy handling
• Might lack the torque others have on this list

2 BMW K 1600 GTL

Starting msrp: $27,295.

If you're searching for a heavyweight luxury tourer to travel on highways with a pillion, nothing compares to the BMW K 1600 GTL. No, it is not as sporty as the pre-discussed M 1000 XR, but it is a great alternative to the fairly subdued Gold Wing. That is thanks to its perplexing 1,649cc six-cylinder in-line engine , which produces 160 horsepower and 132.7 pound-feet of torque.

Thanks to electronic suspension adjustment and top-tier rider aids from BMW, it offers exceptional handling agility and comfort. A 10.25-inch color TFT display, heated grips and seats, keyless entry, and an integrated music system are also included as standard features. The flagship tourer from the BMW K series offers plenty of room for bags and passenger, in addition to adjustable comfort levels for a relaxing ride.

• Luxurious comfort
• Crazy inline-six engine
• All the electronics you could ask for
• Not as 'sporty' as some other options on the list

2023 Sport Tourer Showdown: Concours 1400 vs FJR1300 vs K1600 vs GSX-S1000GT

1 kawasaki h2 sx se+, starting msrp: $28,000.

The touring version of the supercharged Kawasaki H2 makes do with ‘only’ 197 horsepower, so the only question is, how much is too much? If anything, the H2 SX SE+ (snappy name, Kawasaki !) can’t really decide if it's a sport bike or a sport tourer, even though the ingredients are there to fulfill both roles. It takes up neatly where the old ZZR-1400 left off: a long-legged sports touring model with enough performance to outrun almost anything on the road.

It’s comfortable, practical, dynamic, well-equipped, and bristling with tech, with front and rear radar sensors offering adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection, launch control (for those quick getaways from the border post…) quickshifter, keyless start, electronic semi-active suspension, hill-hold control, etc., etc. Not for the faint of heart, but exhilarating in a way not often encountered in this category.

• Sounds like a supercharger
• All the fancy gizmos on board
• Smooth power
• On the heavier side
• Not the most comfortable stock seat
• It's expensive

What Are the Best Sport Touring Motorcycles

If you‘re looking for a powerful, sporty motorcycle aimed at long-distance travel, a sport tourer bike might be your best bet. In many ways, sports tourers are a lot like sports bikes. They’re fast, powerful, and have that sleek, sporty design. On the other hand, most of the best sport touring motorcycles also have a higher windshield, a more comfortable seat, a luggage system, and a passenger seat. In essence, sport tourers are sports bikes adjusted for long hours in the saddle and comfortable travel.

Sport tourers are ideal for motorcycle holidays, high miles, and fun on the mountain twisties. They give the rider that exhilarating feeling of leaning into corners and fast acceleration while providing more comfort riding long-distance. The sitting position on a sport tourer is more upright than on a pure sport bike, and the added luggage system provides for an easier travel setup. In addition, sport tourers usually have pillion seats and footpegs and are loved by riders traveling two-up.

A sport tourer motorcycle differs from a cruiser tourer motorcycle in its design. Cruiser tourers are typically low-slung, offering higher handlebars and a completely upright sitting position. Sport tourer motorcycles, on the other hand, lean more toward sport bikes in the design department and the sitting position is slightly more forward than on a cruiser tourer. In addition, cruisers have wider, lower seats. Equally, an adventure tourer is different because of its capacity of going off-road and its more utilitarian design.

In this article, we’ll list some of the best sport touring motorcycles and sport cruisers comparing the specs, pros, and cons of each bike.

BMW R 1250 RT

Called the king of sport tourers by some, BMW R 1250 RT is a classic sport touring motorcycle offering plenty of power, style, and function.

Made for eating up the highway miles and enjoying curvy mountain roads alike, this beast of a machine boasts all the latest bells and whistles. The R 1250 RT has active cruise control, an elegant split dashboard, a patented windshield with superb wind protection, and lots more.

Its boxer engine delivers power and torque smoothly and consistently, and the integrated luggage system makes it easy to travel. In many ways, this is probably the best sport touring motorcycle out there, at least in the BMW range.

Standard ABS

6-Speed Shaft Transmission

Engine: 1,254cc Twin with BMW ShiftCam

Power: 136 HP

Wet Weight: 615 lbs

Seat Height: 31.7 inches

Pros : plenty of power and torque, excellent build and design, reliable, luxury sport touring motorcycle

Cons : heavy and tall, may be difficult to manoeuvre on narrow streets; expensive

BMW R1250 RS

The RT’s sportier cousin, the BMW R1250 RS is more of a sporty motorcycle than a comfy cruiser. While some of its specs – the engine size, horsepower, 6-gear transmission, shaft drive – are identical to the RT, the RS is almost a hundred pounds lighter and has a sportier design. For those wanting a more sportier feel and look, the RS version is a better choice than the RT.

Engine: 1,254cc Twin BMW ShiftCam

Wet Weight: 535 lbs

Seat Height: 32.3 inches

Pros: sporty look and feel, lighter, faster, more nimble sport touring motorcycle

Cons: less comfortable riding with a passenger

Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX

The Ninja H2 SX is more of a tourer rather than a sports bike, offering power and comfort in equal measure. Its 988 cc engine is more than enough for both highways and sharp corners, and the bike feels stable and easy to handle while offering plenty of speed and agility. Known for reliability and practicality, the Ninja H2 SX is a sensible, sporty tourer offering quality and comfort.

6-Speed Transmission, Chain Drive

Engine: 988cc

Power: 228 HP

Wet Weight: 577.7 lbs

Seat Height: 32.9 inches

Pros : reliable, well-built, high-tech, adjustable suspension

Cons : has less of a sporty motorcycle and more of a cruiser feel

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

Lighter and cheaper than the mammoth BMW RT and RS as well as the Ninja H2 SX, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is one of the most fun sport tourer motorcycles to ride. It packs plenty of pwoer and torque while being relatively light for its size, making leaning into corners a truly spectacular experience. The Super Duke is smooth and consistent and, due to its lower seat height, is perfect for shorter riders.

6-Speed Transmission

Engine: 1301 cc V-Twin

Power: 173 HP

Wet Weight: 497 lbs

Pros : powerful, light, suitable for shorter riders

Cons: more high-maintenance than the BMW and Kawasaki sport touring motorcycles

Honda NT 1100

The newest offering from Honda, the NT 1100 is aiming to become one of the best sport touring motorcycles out there. Using the Africa Twin engine and frame, the NT is more powerful featuring a slee, futuristic design. This bike is built for power, performance, and comfort in equal measure. Boasting adjustable power delivery, traction and wheelie control, and three riding modes, the NT 1100 looks like a comfortable and practical yet exciting sport tourer to ride.

6-Speed Transmission, Chain Drive (DCT versions available)

Engine: 1084cc Parallel Twin

Power: 101 HP

Wet Weight: 524 lbs

Pros: practical, comfortable, reliable, well-built, high-tech

Cons: more of a cuiser than a sporty motorcycle, may feel somewhat underpowered compared to BMW RT and RS models

Yamaha Tracer 7 GT

This Yamaha sport bike is a nimble tourer that works extremely well while traveling, leaning into corners, and riding in the city alike. In many ways, the Tracer is one of the best sport touring motorcycles if you’re looking for a lightweight allrounder bike. This is the lightest sport tourer in its class offering easy handling, agility in corners and city streets, and and a torquey engine. This Yamaha sport touring bike is fun and easy to ride, and it’s suitable for both experienced and beginner riders.

Engine: 689cc Twin

Power: 72.4 HP

Wet Weight: 432.1 lbs

Seat Height: 33.1inches

Pros: lightweight, agile, reliable, well-built, minimalist design, suitable for newer riders

Cons: less powerful than most big sport tourers

Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT

Much like the Tracer, the Suzuki GSX – 1000 GT is a smaller sport touring motorcycle.However, it’s both powerful and torquey for its size and weight boasting a 999cc engine and 150hp. The sleek design makes it look more like a sporty motorcycle than a chunky cruiser, and it more than delivers in the speed department. The GT is fast, quick in corners, and practical: Suzuki is well known for building reliable motorcycles.

Engine: 999 cc

Power: 150 HP

Wet Weight: 498 lbs

Seat Height: 31.9 inches

Pros: light, powerful, reliable, practical, and comfortable; suitable for newer riders, affordable

Cons: may feel slightly underpowered for experienced sport touring riders

One of the best sport touring motorcycles in the middleweight range, the 900 XR offers plenty of power, stable acceleration, and torque while remaining practical and comfortable to ride. This sporty motorcycle is extremely well-balanced and forgiving for beginner riders while remaining a solid, powerful sport tourer for longer rides, mountain twisties, and urban commuting alike. One of the most affordable models in the BMW sport tourer range, the XR is an excellent choice for riders looking to buy a reliable, confidence – boosting bike.

Engine: 895 cc Parallel Twin

Power: 105 HP

Wet Weight: 482 lbs

Seat Height: 32.4 inches

Pros: powerful, well-built, reliable, stable, affordable suitable for newer riders

Cons : veteran riders may want more speed and faster acceleration

Honda GLX 1800 Gold Wing

Although sport touring motorcycles typically lean more toward sport bikes than cruisers, sport cruisers are a category of its own. Just as powerful and fast as their more sporty counterparts, sport cruisers are built for long-distance touring and comfort. Honda Goldwing is the undisputed king of sport cruisers, nad has been fo a long time. Arguiably, it might just be the best sport cruiser motorcycle out there: a timeless classic, the Goldwing has the power, the style, the comfort, and the sheer presence than no other motorcycle manufacturer has managed to duplicate yet.

6-Speed Transmission (7 speed including reverse DCT available)

Engine: 1833 cc Box

Power: 124 HP

Wet Weight: 848 lbs

Seat Height: 29.3 inches

Pros: incredibly powerful, offers maximum comfort, reliable, stable, low-weight

Cons : very heavy and powerful; may not be suitable for beginners and newer riders

Indian Chieftain Dark Horse

Another impressive sport cruiser motorcycle, the Indian Chieftain is more of a cruising chopper than a sporty tourer. Still, it deserves a mention because of its stunning looks, low seat and low center of weight, sheer power, and comfort. The Chieftain is a great sport cruiser for riders preferring a luxury cruise rather than fast cornering, and it‘s ideal for long-distance travel.

Engine: 1,890 cc

Power: 192 HP

Wet Weight: 823 lbs

Seat Height: 25.6 inches

Pros: powerful, well-designed, extremely comfortable, low seat suitable for shorter riders

Cons: may be too heavy and powerful for inexperienced riders

Essential Gear for Sport Touring Motorcycles

If you’re considering buying a sport touring motorcycle or a sport cruiser, be sure to gear up. Sturdy, over-the ankle boots, abrasion-resistant pants and jacket with adequate crash protection, gloves, and a good quality helmet are a must when riding sport touring motorcycles. If you plan to ride your sport tourer in colder temperatures, consider getting heated gear. Most new sport touring motorcycles will likely have heated grips, heated seat, and a tall windshield. Still, heated gear will help you stay dry and toasty even on the longer rides.

Riding gear aside, you’ll also need some security measures to make sure your sport tourer is safe, especially while traveling. We recommend only parking your sport cruiser or tourer in secure garages and parking lots. In addition, it’s advisable to carry a disc lock and a motorcycle chain with you so you can secure the bike when parked on the street. Finally, consider installing a motorcycle alarm  for and added layer of security. A tracker will alert you if your bike is being moved, and you’ll be able to track your motorcycle live in case it gets stolen.

Don’t forget to service your sport touring motorcycle regularly. It’s best to stick to the service intervals recommended in your owner’s manual, and don’t skip oil changes and regular checks – it’s important to keep your motorcycle in top shape at all times! If you hope to maintain the bike yourself, check out our motorcycle maintenance for newbies tips and advice.

What is the most comfortable sport touring motorcycle?

The most comfortable sport touring motorcycle is the BW R 1250 RT, followed shortly by sport cruisers like the Honda Gold Wing and Indian Chieftain. See this post for more comfortable (and uncomfortable!) sport tourer reviews .

Does Honda make a sport touring motorcycle?

  Honda has just come out with its brand-new NT 1110 sport tourer motorcycle which may just be one of the most promising sport touring motorcycles out there.

Touring Mode On

So there you have it – from sporty motorcycles to sport cruisers, there is a wide variety of exciting motorcycles to choose from. When looking for the best sport touring motorcycle, consider whether you want that wow factor and that sporty, racing looks or whether you’re all about comfortable cruising. It’s entirely possible to combine both with bikes like the BMW 1250 RS, and if you’re looking for something smaller and lighter, the Yamaha Tracer is an excellent motorcycle. For best sport cruisers, look into the Honda Gold Wing or the Indian Chieftain.

No matter what you choose, we hope you’ll enjoy your sport touring experience!

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Emily Rabone

The 10 Best Sport Touring Motorcycles

Updated: April 8, 2024

Published: August 7, 2023

Some people just want it all: the power and performance of a sport bike with the comfort and resilience of a touring motorcycle. 

Fortunately, since the 90s, the sport touring class has given riders just that with motorcycles that provide speed and agility along with storage, fairings and lower gearing. 

Unfortunately , a lot of manufacturers have started either abandoning this class or blending it with adventure motorcycles and general sport bikes. If you’re set on this type of bike, here are the 10 best sport touring motorcycles you can buy in 2023. 

BMW R1250RT

• Engine: 1254cc, four-stroke boxer
• Max power: 136 hp
• Max torque: 105 lb-ft
• Seat height: 31.7/32.5 inches
• Curb weight: 615 pounds
• MSRP: $19,995

BMW dominates the adventure and sport touring classes, and since its release in 2020, the R1250RT has been BMW’s defining model in that category. It replaced the slightly smaller but similar R1200RT, which was widely regarded as the best sport touring bike in the world.

The R1250RT’s primary mechanical advantage is its high torque curve, which provides consistent power without having to shift gears as often. This makes it ideal for lugging bags and gear through mountain roads. You can relax and worry less about stalling out on a steep switchback.

Of course, BMW also upgrades the tech on this model. It has cruise control, a color display with integrated map navigation, even heated seats. In other words, you get a relaxed ride regardless of the road in addition to the power and agility of a sport bike.

Check it out on BMW

Moto Guzzi Mandello S

• Engine: 1042cc, V-twin
• Max power: 115 hp
• Max torque: 77 lb-ft
• Seat height: 32 inches
• Curb weight: 513 pounds
• MSRP: $17,490

Owing to its Italian origins, the Madello line’s main claim to fame is its excellent handling for the size and weight. While it has the power and resilience for long rides at high speeds, it can also handle narrow, winding roads with ease in addition to dense city traffic.

For the 2023 model, I love a lot of the accessories Moto Guzzi has added. The windscreen and suspension are both electronically adjustable, good for long trips and changing conditions, and you even get a USB charging point made possible by the large alternator.

For sport touring, I specifically recommend the Madello S, but the entire V100 range is great. That includes the Mandello and Mandello Aviazione Navale.

Check it out on Moto Guzzi

Yamaha FJR1300ES

• Engine: 1298cc, inline four-cylinder
• Max power: 141.5 hp
• Max torque: 102 lb-ft
• Curb weight: 642 pounds
• MSRP: $18,299

If you want to lean into the “sport” part of sport touring, the Yamaha FJR1300ES might be your best bet. The large engine is powerful and provides consistent torque across RPMs. It’s a lot of fun to ride on curving traditional highways but is still comfortable and not too demanding.

Another big draw is the tall sixth gear that makes cruising on the interstate a lot easier. It’s good for long cross-country trips.

In fact, this motorcycle’s combination of stability, acceleration, and comfort over long periods have made it a favorite of police departments around the world. The recent models even come with a three-part instrumental panel that displays a wealth of riding information as well as integrated luggage and cruise control.

Check it out on Yamaha

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT

• Engine: 890cc, inline three-cylinder
• Max torque: 64.5 lb-ft
• Seat height: 31.9/32.5 inches
• Curb weight: 485 pounds
• MSRP: $14,999

The Tracer 9 GT is the other sport touring option from Yamaha. Though it’s smaller than the FJR1300, it still provides a good cross between sporty agility and acceleration and smooth, comfortable riding. (Read more about the most comfortable sports bikes .)

It might not be the best choice for cross-country rides, but it’s arguably the better choice for urban commuting or short tours thanks to its lightweight and smaller profile — not to mention the lower price.

Introduced in 2021, the Tracer 9 GT is a complete revamp of the MT-09. It has more power, an increased fuel capacity, and a slicker frame. It also now comes standard with side cases big enough for full-face helmets.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

• Engine: 1301cc, V-twin
• Max power: 173 hp
• Max torque: 104 lb-ft
• Seat height: 32.9 inches
• Curb weight: 496 pounds
• MSRP: $19,799

It’s amazing how seamlessly KTM was able to blend speed and power with distance on the 1290 Super Duke GT. The large V-twin gives excellent power that’s even enough for the racetrack. Meanwhile, it’s robust enough to take on winding highways for hours at a time. In fact, the service interval is 15,000 kilometers, over 9,000 miles. 

On top of all of this, KTM included a color TFT dashboard. This digital display provides navigation, multiple electronically controlled riding modes, and other important riding information. This is an advanced and versatile bike that’s an ideal choice for the modern rider who wants to explore the country and city both. 

Check it out on KTM

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

• Engine: 1158cc, V4
• Max power: 170 hp
• Max torque: 92 lb-ft
• Seat height: 33.1/33.9 inches
• Curb weight: 481 pounds
• MSRP: $27,195

You gotta hand it to Ducati, this is an amazing bike. 

Granted, you have to pay Ducati prices, but you get an incredibly versatile machine. And at the end of the day, it might not even be as expensive as it seems because it has an insane 60,000-kilometer service interval. That’s 37,000 miles, reflecting the ability of the Granturismo engine to hold up over long distances and demanding trips. 

That same engine provides fun power and acceleration with a torque profile and sturdy frame that you can take just about anywhere. You also get a lot of bang for your buck with all the advanced technology, like blind spot detection and adaptive cruise control. 

While I personally like the Multistrada V4 S, you can get a similar bike aimed more at off-roading with the Multistrada V4 Rally . At the end of the day, it’s hard to be disappointed with a Ducati.

Check it out on Ducati

Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+

• Engine: 999cc, four-cylinder
• Max power: 150 hp
• Max torque: 80 lb-ft
• Seat height: 31.9 inches
• Curb weight: 498 pounds
• MSRP: $13,349

The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ maintains the tradition of the true sport tourers: the performance of a powerful sport bike with the comfort and long-distance toughness of a touring bike. Namely, check out that insane 150 hp for a sub-1,000 engine. Nevertheless, you get lower gearing for easy commuting and highway rides as well as extensive fairings and storage.

While other manufacturers seem to be abandoning sport tourers, combining them with adventure bikes or lowering the power, Suzuki shows no signs of giving up on the GSX line. In fact, 2021 saw the bike updated with even more horsepower, a sportier design, and an increased fuel tank to five gallons.

Check it out on Suzuki

Honda NC750X DCT

• Engine: 745cc, parallel-twin
• Max power: 58 hp
• Max torque: 51 lb-ft
• Seat height: 31.6 inches
• Curb weight: 493 pounds
• MSRP: $9,399

Honestly more of an adventure tourer than a true sport tourer, the NC750X still has the comfortable ergonomics and great fuel efficiency of 67 mpg. 

It’s just a bit smaller and less powerful than you’d normally expect of a sport tourer, but it still gets a lot of power at low revolutions. While this makes it great for poorly maintained roads, it’s also fun on mountain highways.

The NC750X DCT was primarily designed to compete with the BMW F750GS, but because Honda’s sport touring range is limited, this model is a bit more versatile and provides comfort for longer tours that its competitors may lack. I particularly like the shape of the seat, but the windscreen and streamlined cowl also give you a lot of protection at high speeds without sacrificing agility.

Check it out on Honda

Kawasaki Versys 1000LT

• Engine: 1043cc, four-cylinder
• Max power: 120 hp
• Max torque: 75 lb-ft
• Seat height: 33.1 inches
• Curb weight: 567 pounds
• MSRP: $18,899

Like Honda, Kawasaki has mostly abandoned the sport tourer class, but the Versys 1000LT is still a good option if you love the power of Kawasaki engines and want decent displacement. Its style and riding position are closer to that of an adventure tourer, but it’s still designed for long trips on the highway rather than off-roading.

A lot of riders like the Versys line for sport touring because of its smoother power profile. With lower horsepower, it doesn’t necessarily take off like a dedicated sport bike, but it does provide comfortable torque even at high RPMs, so highway riding in town is still doable. At the same time, the long suspension makes poorly maintained country roads much more manageable. 

Check it out on Kawasaki

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT

• Engine: 1160cc, straight-three
• Max power: 147 hp
• Max torque: 95 lb-ft
• Seat height: 33.5/34.5 inches
• Curb weight: 529 pounds
• MSRP: $19,595

Man oh man, is this a bike for long tours. It holds the record for longest distance traveled in 24 hours by a motorcycle at 2,493 miles, set by Ivan Cervantes in June 2023. This bike will take you where you need to go, and comfortably, with cruise and hill control, adaptive cornering lights and blind spot detection. It remains stable on twisting roads, no problem. 

As for the sport side, Triumph upped the power for the 2023 model. An hp of 147 is some of the best you’ll find in this class. More of an adventure model, it’s not a racing bike, but it’ll get you up to speed on the Interstate quick . 

Check it out on Triumph

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Speedy and supple: It's MCN's best sports tourer motorcycles of 2023

Kawasaki have been left to fly the sports tourer flag alone in recent times, as adventure-style bikes have become the new allrounders and the £12,349 Ninja 1000SX has been the only choice for those who want a low, long, road bike-shaped way to enjoy big, sporty miles.

Best sports tourers of 2023: 

• Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
• Suzuki GSX-S1000GT
• BMW R1250RS
• Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello

BMW have the R1250RS, of course, and we pitched it against the Kawasaki around our old MCN250 in 2019. The German was the more characterful of the two, but it doesn’t have the same kind of mass appeal as the SX. It’s more expensive, too, especially when you start ticking options boxes.

Kawasaki’s SX has been around since 2011 and is quite rightly their biggest UK seller. Then called the Z1000SX, it was basically a Z1000 super-naked with added wind protection and comfort, but it also ticked the ‘sports’ box with a strong 138bhp, 1043cc inline four, radial brakes, quad exhaust cans and adjustable suspension.

In 2014 it got beefier Tokico calipers and uprated suspension and in 2017 was facelifted with added lean-sensitive rider aids, chassis tweaks and minor engine mods (check out MCN’s online reviews for the full lowdown).

Fast-forward and we have the Ninja 1000SX you see here with sharper steering geometry, superb Bridgestone S22 sports-touring tyres , an up/down quickshifter, colour TFT, cruise control, modes, a plusher seat, new exhaust and mapping to deliver a claimed 140bhp.

What are these sports tourers like on the road?

Our MCN250 B-road and motorway loops let the Kawasaki shine, even in the gloom of a frosty January day. It’s a genuinely exciting sportsbike when you want it to be, thanks to the easy grunt and turbine-smooth urgency of its bigcube engine and it flows through corners beautifully.

Its S22 tyres are grippy, even on cold tarmac, steering is direct, high-speed stability is excellent and the brakes are powerful.

Who needs a ZX-10R when the 1000SX is this good?

Spending all day on the Kawasaki isn’t a chore, either. Despite looking like a sportsbike and having relatively high pegs, it’s genuinely comfortable, even for a six-footer like me with battle-scarred joints.

With its sleek aerodynamics, wind noise is significantly lower than a ‘tall-rounder’, too, which is quite literally music to my ears. I spent time on a Yamaha Tracer 9 GT before this test and the racket it makes from its upright screen at motorway speeds borders on the offensive.

The Ninja’s screen is two-way adjustable and a remote rear preload adjuster knob makes carrying pillions easy. Our bike is the Ninja 1000SX Performance Tourer edition, costing an extra £2300 with niceties like a carbon Akrapovic can, crash protection, pillion seat cover, tank pad and touring items such as heated grips, panniers and a taller screen.

But for 2023, the Kawasaki gets its first proper competition and it’s clear Suzuki are after a slice of the action with the new £12,499 GSX-S1000GT (in February 2023).

The two are remarkably similar, even down to the price, give or take, and it’s also powered by a gutsy inline four pictured below, this time derived from the GSX-R1000K5. It makes slightly more power than the Kawasaki (150bhp v 140bhp), but being fractionally smaller (999cc) it has slightly less torque: 78lb.ft v 82lb.ft. It’s also lighter, to the tune of 9kg.

Given the engine’s history, you won’t be surprised to learn the GT is the racier of the two. It has a raspier exhaust note and despite having a beautifully wide spread of power and perfect fuelling when you pick up the throttle, the motor has a rawness which will appeal to those who like a bit of zing from their sports tourer.

Being lighter and more powerful than the SX, the GT will be the more sprightly of the pair on hot tarmac, but for normal riding the Kawasaki’s engine is calmer and more refined.

You’re often reaching for an elusive seventh cog on the Suzuki, where the Kawasaki’s gearing is perfectly judged for more relaxed riding, revving at 4400rpm @70mph in top, 500rpm lower than the GT.

The GT’s slightly more frantic nature is something you notice after jumping off the Kawasaki with its extra cubes and peak torque, made 1250rpm further down the revs. But in isolation the Suzuki’s engine perfectly suits life in its sports touring clothes and as we discovered at its launch last year, the good stuff keeps on coming.

Its gearbox and up/down shifter are slick, it has a handy cruise control, a bright and bold dash that links to your phone for satnav (absent on the Kawasaki) and it’s just as comfortable as the Kawasaki over distance.

Where the SX’s bars and tank are slim the GT is wider with higher, straighter bars, which will suit larger riders. It also has power modes, traction control and ABS, but they aren’t lean-sensitive.

Handling is as crisp as you’d expect but the suspension isn’t as plush as the Kawasaki’s and it runs on budget Dunlop Roadsport 2 rubber. Fitting latest-generation sports or sports touring rubber would make an immediate improvement.

The Suzuki stops as well as the Kawasaki, but there’s little feel through the lever, which takes away some of the enjoyment. It’s also lacking a couple of touring fundamentals. Like the SX there’s no centrestand and the low screen isn’t adjustable (a taller accessory version is available).

You’ll have to skin your knuckles with a C-spanner to adjust the rear preload for a pillion, too. Talking of pillions, we took our 22-year-old, 13.5 stone videographer on the back of the GT.

He was happy with its legroom, but he’d want a bigger seat for long distance. He didn’t try the SX as it was fitted with a single seat shroud.

Overall Suzuki’s GSX-S1000GT has all the makings of a go-to sports tourer to rival the SX, but the longestablished Kawasaki is just that bit more refined in every area. 

Best sports tourer verdict: Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX vs Suzuki GSX-S1000GT

Both the Kawasaki and new Suzuki do what traditional sports-tourers do best: neatly mix all-day comfort with headbanging performance. They’re affordable, well equipped, very fast and slip through the air almost silently compared to adventure-style all-rounders.

We saluted the GSX-S1000GT was when we rode it at its launch last year and here on the MCN250 it’s every bit as impressive. It’s easy to ride, roomy and – of the two – has the most raucous and powerful engine, so it’s every inch the GSX-R1000 you can go touring on. Of all the GSX-S1000 models produced since 2015, the new GT is easily the best.

But it doesn’t take many miles on the Kawasaki to realise what a class act it is. It’s more refined in every area: the engine is smoother, gearing more relaxed on the motorway, suspension plusher, tyres grippier, brakes more powerful and paint finishes deeper.

The adjustable screen and remote rear preload adjuster put the GT in the shade, too. Most of all, Kawasaki have had a decade to polish the SX to perfection – and it really shows.

Other sports tourers to consider

The Kawasaki and Suzuki along with the BMW R1250RS are the mainstream offerings in this market, with the Italian high-tech hero, the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello pictured below the only other bike worthy of consideration from a sports-touring perspective. We’re putting that to the test on the MCN250 very soon…

There are also softer, less sporty rivals like the Yamaha Tracer 9 and the Honda NT1100 .

As a used buy, the obvious choice is Honda’s VFR800 – a much-loved model we were sad to see go off sale in 2021.

By Michael Neeves

MCN Chief Road Tester, club racer, airmiles millionaire.

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2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT | Road Test Review

Suzuki’s new sport-tourer delivers the goods, and the GT+ includes standard side cases

Suzuki is helping sport-tourers make a comeback. With the rise of adventure bikes over the past decade, sport-tourers got shoved aside, relegated to the dark corners of showroom floors. Development cycles stretched out, and model updates became few and far between. That’s a shame. Not everyone wants a motorcycle with a 19-inch front wheel, a 34-inch seat height, and a jungle gym’s worth of crash bars.

Check out Rider ‘s 2022 Motorcycle Buyers Guide

As the name implies, sport-tourers combine go-fast performance and touring prowess into a single package. What’s not to love about a superbike engine tuned for the street, a chassis built for both speed and comfort, and ergonomics that won’t make you cry uncle after an hour in the saddle? With their 17-inch wheels shod with grippy radials, sport-tourers love to lean, and modern electronic rider aids help keep things in check.

Enter the new-for-2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT ($13,149) and GSX-S1000GT+ ($13,799) , the latter distinguished by its color-matched side cases. Color options are the Metallic Reflective Blue of our test bike or Glass Sparkle Black. The GT is built on the same platform as the GSX-S1000 naked sportbike we tested recently. But unlike the GSX-S1000F that was in Suzuki’s lineup until 2020, which was little more than a GSX-S1000 with a fairing bolted on, the GT is a true grand tourer.

Look Good, Feel Good

The GT’s bodywork is distinctive and angular, with a wedge-shaped front fairing that juts sharply forward and houses a V-shaped LED position light and a pair of mono-focus LED headlights (for low beam, only the right lamp is illuminated). Attached to the top of the fairing are mirrors perched on the ends of long stalks and a nonadjustable windscreen. Lower fairing panels keep the radiator and much of the engine hidden, and they are vented to pull hot air out and away from the cockpit.

GEAR UP: Helmet: Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Jacket: Scorpion EXO Optima Gloves: Scorpion EXO Havoc Pants: Scorpion EXO Covert Pro Jeans Boots: SIDI Gavia Gore-Tex

Two-up comfort was an important consideration in the GT’s development. All the rider and passenger touchpoints – the handlebar, footpegs, and rear grab handles – are rubber-damped to minimize vibration. Compared to the GSX-S1000F, the handlebar is 0.9 inch wider and 0.6 inch closer to the rider, allowing for more steering leverage and a nearly upright seating position. The wide, slightly dished rider’s seat sits 31.9 inches off the deck and is comfortable enough for long days in the saddle. A sporty amount of cornering clearance necessitated high placement of the footpegs, sacrificing some legroom, and they are positioned just below the rider’s hips.

Seat height for the passenger is 34.2 inches, and the 2.3-inch boost in height provides a better view over the rider’s shoulders. Large grab handles allow the passenger to hold on securely to the bike rather than just a strap on the seat or the rider’s hips. Both the front and rear seats have thick, supportive foam and are covered in a slightly grippy weather-resistant material.

To accommodate the added weight of a passenger and luggage, the GT has a trellis-style subframe that provides both strength and visual flair. The GSX-S1000GT+ comes standard with side cases that hold 25.7 liters (and up to 11 lbs) on each side, and they’re large enough to fit most full-face helmets. The saddlebags are easy to open, close, lock, remove, and reinstall, and they are keyed to the ignition. The only downside is that they cannot be left unlocked for quick access.

Paying the $650 premium for the GT+ is money well-spent. High-quality, lockable, removable, weatherproof saddlebags are undeniably convenient and practical. And buying the cases and necessary hardware as standalone accessories will set you back more than $1,000.

To further enhance the GT’s touring ability, Suzuki gave the bike a 6.5-inch full-color TFT display, all-new switchgear, and Bluetooth connectivity. The TFT has a large analog-style tachometer, a digital speedometer, and a fuel gauge on the left side, as well as an array of bike and trip info on the right. It also has a sensor that automatically switches the background from white in bright light to black in low light.

Buttons on the left switchgear allow the rider to adjust settings and navigate menus. Installing the Suzuki mySPIN smartphone app and pairing via Bluetooth provides access to contacts, phone, maps, music, and calendar functions, which are displayed on the TFT screen. You’ll need a Bluetooth helmet headset to make/receive calls, listen to music, or hear turn-by-turn directions. A USB port on the dash provides on-the-go charging for devices.

In Thrust We Trust

Like the GSX-S1000, the GT is powered by a 999cc in-line Four adapted from the GSX-R1000 K5 (2005-2008). It’s been retuned to make the engine more suitable for the street, but there’s still plenty of heat in the kitchen. On Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno, the GSX-S1000 churned out 136 hp at 10,200 rpm and 73 lb-ft of torque at 9,300 rpm. Updates to the engine include new camshaft profiles, new valve springs, new throttle bodies, a revised airbox, and a Euro 5-compliant 4-2-1 exhaust. Together, they result in an extra 2 hp at the peak and smoother horsepower and torque curves.

The GSX-S engine is a gem with no rough edges. From cracking open the throttle above idle to twisting the grip to the stop, power comes on cleanly and predictably. Slaloming back and forth on a series of curves with grace and confidence requires accurate additions and subtractions of fuel and air, and the Suzuki mixes them perfectly. Using a throttle-by-wire system, turning the right grip directly activates the throttle position sensor, which sends instantaneous signals to a servo motor that precisely moves the throttle plates. Throttle response is further enhanced by a long, tapered intake tract that is narrower at the bottom where the 10-hole injectors are located.

The GT’s throttle-by-wire also enables the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, which includes three ride modes (Active, Basic, and Comfort) that adjust throttle response and power delivery, 5-level traction control, cruise control, and Suzuki’s Easy Start, Low RPM Assist, and Bi-Directional Quick Shift systems. ABS is also part of the electronics package, but with no IMU, neither it nor the TC are lean-angle adaptive. The 6-speed transmission has a cable-actuated slip/assist clutch. Gear changes using the quickshifter are fast and smooth, and clutch action is light with predictable engagement. Both the clutch and brake levers are adjustable for reach.

Being derived from a Superbike championship-winning sportbike like the GSX-R1000, the GSX-S1000GT has a massive twin-spar cast-aluminum frame that surrounds the engine and attaches to a cast-aluminum swingarm. KYB suspension – a fully adjustable 43mm inverted fork and a link-type rear shock that’s adjustable for preload and rebound – is taut yet comfortable.

Brembo 4-piston radial-mount monoblock front calipers are mated to fully floating 310mm rotors, and they offer strong power and precise feedback. A Nissin 1-piston rear caliper squeezes a 240mm disc. The GT rolls on six-spoke, 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels shod with Dunlop Roadsmart 2 sport-touring radials that deliver reliable grip and neutral cornering behavior.

On the Road Again

Suzuki hosted a two-day press launch for the GSX-S1000GT+, with a test route that started and ended at its U.S. headquarters in Brea, California. Back-to-back 300-mile days gave us a chance to thoroughly evaluate the GT in a wide range of conditions, including traffic-choked freeways, wide-open highways, and tight, technical backroads. We followed that up with more miles on a test bike over several weeks on home turf.

The qualities that impressed us about the GSX-S1000 – impeccable smoothness, predictable handling, unflappable stability, and linear power delivery – carry over to its GT sibling. Likewise, its braking and suspension components and electronic rider aids were selected to deliver sporting performance without inflating the retail price.

Where the GT really stands out is its rider and passenger comfort, cruise control, instrumentation and connectivity, and, on the GT+, stylish and useful saddlebags. Weighing in at 521 lbs with its 5-gal. tank full, the GT+ is much lighter than open-class sport-tourers like the BMW R 1250 RT (615 lbs), Yamaha FJR1300ES (644 lbs), and Kawasaki Concours 14 (691 lbs). It weighs more than the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT (503 lbs) but makes significantly more rear-wheel horsepower (136 vs. 108). With its cornering ABS and TC and semi-active suspension, the Tracer 9 GT also costs $1,200 more than the GSX-S1000GT+ ($14,999 vs. $13,799).

If the GT has one notable shortcoming, it’s the nonadjustable windscreen. Though Suzuki says it and the bodywork were developed in a wind tunnel, airflow over the windscreen hit me square in the chest and created a lot of turbulence around my helmet. Of course, the size of the rider plays a role in aerodynamics (I’m 6 feet tall), but the lack of height adjustability means you get what you get. Suzuki makes an accessory touring windscreen ($169.95) that is 2.75 inches taller and has a more vertical pitch near the top, but one was not available during our test.

Other available accessories include heated grips, a two-tone rider’s seat with a suede-like cover embossed with the GSX-S GT logo, axle sliders, ring-lock tankbags (small and large), tank pads and protectors, and wheel rim decals.

We’re glad to see Suzuki helping bring the sport-touring class to its former glory. The GSX-S1000GT+ strikes an excellent balance between performance, technology, weight, comfort, and price. Life is good when the scenery is a blur.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ Specs

Base Price: $13,149 (GT) Price as Tested: $13,799 (GT+ w/ 25.7L side cases) Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. miles Website: suzukicycles.com ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse in-line Four, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 999cc Bore x Stroke: 73.4 x 59.0mm Compression Ratio: 12.2:1 Valve Insp. Interval: 15,000 miles Fuel Delivery: EFI w/ throttle-by-wire, 40mm throttle bodies x 4 Lubrication System: Wet sump, 3.6 qt. cap. Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: O-ring chain CHASSIS Frame: Twin-spar cast aluminum frame & swingarm Wheelbase: 57.5 in. Rake/Trail: 25 degrees/3.9 in. Seat Height: 31.9 in. Suspension, Front: 43mm inverted fork, fully adj., 4.7 in. travel Rear: Single linkage shock, adj. spring preload & rebound, 5.1 in. travel Brakes, Front: Dual 310mm floating discs w/ 4-piston radial monoblock calipers & ABS Rear: Single 240mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS Wheels, Front: Cast, 3.5 x 17 in. Rear: Cast, 6.0 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 120/70-ZR17 Rear: 190/50-ZR17 Wet Weight: 521 lbs (as tested) Load Capacity: 405 lbs (as tested) GVWR: 926 lbs PERFORMANCE Horsepower: 136 hp @ 10,200 rpm (rear-wheel dyno) Torque: 73 lb-ft @ 9,300 rpm (rear-wheel dyno) Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gals. Fuel Consumption: 35.5 mpg Estimated Range: 178 miles

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Anybody know where you can actually buy one of these? The dealers I’ve contacted in NM and CO say it’s not available and probably won’t be until the 2023 MY.

I picked one up in the Seattle area at the beginning of June after putting a deposit down around the beginning of March. I used Cycle Trader to search a radius around my zip code to find a dealer close enough.

Looks like only two dealers listing it in the west on Cycle Trader right now (PCP Motorsports – Sacramento, CA) and another dealer near Seattle (Nash Motorsports).

Rob ,can you tell me if this bike has a metal gas tank or a plastic one with a bodywork cover over it as I would have to make enlarging the tank by at least a gallon and a half to two gallons my first mod to it.

metal, it takes a magnetic tank bag fine, just did a road test on it. great machine.

contact Suzuki they will send a demo to your nearest dealer for you to test drive and if you like it you can order one that’s what I did.

Seat too low and pegs too high. Cramped . Thin seat and low bars . Bad windshield. Everything says UNCOMFORTABLE. Most of the reasons why sport touring bikes have lost their appeal. Give me a V-Strom or Africa Twin any day.

Wait what? A V Strom or Africa twin? What are you like 6’8″?

I have a triumph tiger as well as this Suzuki and the Suzuki is just as comfortable even for an oldie like me.

This bike feels like was made for anyone under anyone under 6 ft uh? They need to design this bike so it’s more comfortable for the rider no matter what. They attempted and failed to met that in my opinion. Great handling bike though

So, sounds like it’s not made for the taller rider, good, I’m 5’8″—could be just right for me. It’s got a shorter seat than my GSX-S750 (32.3″), which is a little higher than I’d prefer. This bike is a sport-tourer but caters towards the sportier side more than full-blown tourer, perfect for someone like me that’s thinking of making the transition to something with wind protection and more power. Best thing about it is the GSX-R1000-derived engine, a legendary motor with more than enough power. It’s hand down better than the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, read the reviews vs it’s primary competitor. the Ninja 1000SX has a higher seat height at 32.3″ and less horsepower at 140 vs Suzuki’s 150. Also, the Suzuki GT version only weighs 498 lbs. vs Kaw’s 514 lbs. Another better thing that the Suzuki has over the Kawasaki is a better-looking muffler, much smaller. I’ll stick with the Suzuki brand, best bang for the buck manufacturer for many models. Japanese reliability unmatched vs others.

Too bad it is chain drive.

Could be The One! But riding the GT outside of a two-day thrashing, it will be important to find out what real-world gas mileage is. The as-tested 35.5 mpg is dismal at best, especially for a bike with a GT moniker (and with gas at about $7/gal!). When you do the inevitable head-to-head with the 1000SX, let’s see what can be squeezed out when riding like you ACTUALLY own it. I am also looking forward to seeing how well the touring windshield works, and if the aftermarket will be providing some peg lowering kits (like they’ve been doing with the Hayabusa). This bike is very intriguing!

I have one … I rode 165 miles on it yesterday, averaging a – measured by used fuel volume – 52mpg (UK galls), equivalent to a tank range, brim to dry of 217 miles. I gave it the berries on several occasions, but mostly swift A-road (highway) speeds in the 45-85mph range.

they look very nice but nobody seem to go out at night to see if the headlight is any good,,,they should offer alternative screens for different size people as well although i think you have a choice of one from the factory.

We admit that our testing regimen doesn’t not prioritize fuel economy, especially on sportbike-based machines like this one. If riders want to conserve fuel, they can short shift to high gears, stay relaxed on the throttle, and use cruise control often.

that is pretty much standard for a new bike, bikes tend to get better gas mileage as the miles pile up. but it all depends on the rider.

Interesting article. I could relate on many topics as I am a seasoned Suzukiman myself. I see however that you do not have any actual pictures of the engine itself. That is the best part of Suzukis is they often house a real golden gem of an engine with simplicity and humility. Mission number one with Suzuki is the tightly tuned engine with it designed to rev high to the line with a thirst for more, driven hard put away wet as the American Muscle Car Guy might say. Looking forward to seeing the engine. Thanks.

Takeo Yamaguchi

Sounds like a great bike. I’ll need to get on one for a demo ride

Chain….no center stand……next!!

Exactly. Two items that are absolute musts for me to even consider a sport touring bike today.

Huge bang for the buck. Should also be after-market opportunities for foot peg lowering kits and thicker seats.

I have a K1600GTL that gets 45 mpg and has excellent wind protection but have been interested in the GSXS 1000GT for the lower weight and because I like Suzuki’s. Like KJS says, where to find one? I hope Suzuki gets their dealer and supply issues ironed out this year.

1st 35 mpg is terrible with technology that my 04 FJR1300 gets 40mpg. and 2nd is 141hp. Disadvantages is no 6th gear and maybe newer technology ABS and cruise control. But I carry more luggage and have more comfort with an adjustable height windshield. $13k is robbery. I’m an avid Suzuki fan. Owned a few Suzukis hoping for a sport touring bike like the old Gsx katana 1100. A rebirth I would purchase immediately with today’s tech.

Jamie. I still have my 1993 GSX1100 F, I would love to find someone I can trust to do some work on it.

That’s what this is, though. Today’s tech using a capable and proven platform (minimal bespoke parts). Today’s tech in a 1000cc sport touring bike costs $13k. Don’t really know what you’re complaining about here.

What are you guys smoking? Lowering the pegs on a sportsbike? Raise the saddle in that case… But yeah, they could have had an optional centerstand.

Non adjustable windscreen? Not even manually adjustable? On a touring bike, what were they thinking? Chain drive frees up some power but it’s not as maintenance friendly or reliable as a shaft drive if you’re going long distance. At least heated grips are an option. But it’s hard to get over the high rearward placement of those pegs. It’s nice but not enough to sway me away from my FJR.

I guess it depends on your perspective. Most of gripes I read here seem to be from touring-focused riders rather than sport-focused riders. I find the new Suzuki very appealing. I was considering it’s predecessor, which gets rave reviews from people who have them, but I didn’t like the looks. This new one looks good. I’m primarily a sport rider who wants a bit more comfort and luggage capacity in my old age. Gas mileage? Yea, I can’t argue it’s not important, but it’s not in my top-10 of factors I look at. Non-adjustable wind screen? Never had one. I think Suzuki’s put together a very capable machine for a very reasonable price. Go ahead and ride your 2004 Yamaha 1300. I never considered one of those giant boat like sports tourers, and would prefer an adventure style bike if practicality/gas mileage/seat height/ultimate comfort were my priorities.

Very well stated MRPC. Agree on all counts. Suzuki isn’t surprised to see that FJR1300 owners aren’t flocking to this bike.

Suzuki went more after the sport bike rider and focused less on the touring end with chain drive, high set-back foot pegs, and lack of center stand. Those attributes won’t likely entice current FJR1300 or C14 owners into making a trade for this bike. Maybe they can win some sport bike owners over with the low price and light weight.

I got mine this week. Was searching for months until one showed up in my area that was not already spoken for. However even though its the GT+, Suzuki shipped it with no bags. They are supposed to arrive in 6 weeks. Love the bike.

Nice article! I think I’ll buy one. I am a bit worried from other reviews that 6th gear is too short and people say searching for 7th…so revving a bit high at freeway speeds? Otherwise I’ll opt for the heated grips and touring windscreen and I’ll be set! I miss my RT1200 but think the light weight, suzuki reliability and performance will go a long way!

Bought this bike in June. Yes, it’s true, that the 6Th gear should be taller. Not sure how or why Suzuki missed this on a bike designed for sport tourer. It’s also strange that few online reviewers ever mentioned it (and I watched many videos). Also, the seat is uncomfortably hard and very hot (again, how did Suzuki missed this on a sport tourer?)

Those are my only gripes though. And now that I’m more in tune with the engine, it doesn’t bother me as much. And Corbin is coming out with an aftermarket seat next week. Everything else about the bike is outstanding for a super sport tourer, and a big step up from my trusty 5th gen VFR800.

Just purchased one a couple weeks ago. The only one available in a 500 mile radius of Houston Texas. Loving the bike so far. Pros – the engine and the slickest transmission I’ve ever rode. It is effortless to shift smoothly…and the quick shifter is top of the class. I’m coming off a naked bike with zero wind protection so I’m fine with the stock windscreen…have a puig visor on order to tweak the wind flow on long highway slogs..otherwise it’s fine, it’s a motorcycle!! The looks are amazing IMO. Only con I have thus far is the seat…that’s a very personal gripe and your mileage may vary; maybe with more riding time it will break in or my ass will conform to it. Love the TFT as well, Sygic is a navigation app which works perfectly on the bright and high res screen. The built in maps app is very basic. Overall I’m stoked with my purchase!

I got one of these bikes back in June and now have ~2000 miles on it. I average about 42 mpg. I am 6’2″ tall and a big guy. I also put on the touring windshield and the optional seat. The optional seat gave me just a little more room for my legs and it is a lot more comfortable. The taller windshield makes the highway miles more enjoyable without taking all of the air away. I have decades of experience riding all types of bikes and also own multiple types of bikes. This bike is now my main bike and the most enjoyable bike. That is both for riding the highway and mountain canyon carving. I would and do recommend this bike to the type of people that would like. With the selection of bikes in the market place there is a bike for everyone. This one is perfect for me and what I want to ride. It is a great all around fast and reliable bike that does many things great

This is the motorcycle that I always wanted when I was younger. I’m glad to see they finally made it! As 50 gets closer and my knees get a little less flexible, the thought of tucking up on the pegs gets to be less desirable. I also don’t want to do chain maintenance any more. A drive shaft seems like a better alternative. The problem is, there is always a weight penalty with a shaft drive. I wish someone would figure out how to keep the weight down around the 500-550 range with a shaft drive. The thing is, I’ve owned a heavier sport tourer and never could connect with it because of the weight. Every motorcycle I’ve owned that is on the lighter side has always been more dynamic and enjoyable. I’m not a long touring guy, but I typically like to do extended single days. I appreciate some luggage capacity, but don’t need a Goldwing. This looks ideal in that regard. It looks like they got so much right with this, but they are missing one ingredient that could make this bike even more successful: Factory customization options. My friend is on the short side, closer to 5′, while I’m well over 6′. I find we seem to like the same bikes, but the requirements and options vary because of our size differences. He is put into a position where he has limited options due to his inseam, and so am I. Why do manufacturers not offer a selection of footpegs / shifters, seats, bars, and windscreens made to suit different riders? Why not offer two chassis options- low and high?

If this had been available 20 years ago, I would have bought it instead of my FJR, largely because of the 120lb weight difference. Shaft drive weight ruins fun. Now I’m too old for a bike designed for 5’6″ riders.

That sums it up buddy.

The new Suzuki GSX-S1000GT and GT+ offer a promising blend of sporty performance and touring comfort, making them an attractive option for riders looking for versatility in their motorcycles.

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BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

• NINJA ® 1000SX
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The sport appeal of Kawasaki Ninja ® motorcycles goes well beyond the racetrack with the remarkably versatile Ninja ® 1000SX sportbike. Enjoy pure sporting thrill with superior power, two-up touring capability and advanced rider support electronics. A force to be reckoned with on the track and a machine built for weekend trips.

• 1,043 cc inline four-cylinder digitally fuel-injected engine
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NINJA ® 1000SX ABS

MSRP $13,699

ADDITIONAL VEHICLE FEATURES:

• Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS)
• Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC)
• Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF)
• Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS)
• Electronic Throttle Valves
• Integrated Riding Modes
• Power Mode selection
• Assist & Slipper clutch
• Electronic Cruise Control
• All-digital TFT color instrumentation
• Smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP
• Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 Tires

PERFORMANCE

Exhilaration found here.

The powerful liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder 1,043cc engine delivers major power with strong mid-range performance. Power delivery is responsive and comes with an intoxicating intake howl.

Assist & Slipper

The Assist & Slipper Clutch offers light clutch pull and minimizes rear wheel chatter caused by excessive engine braking due to quick downshifting.

Rigid & Balanced

The aluminum twin tube frame is highly rigid and features a high degree of mass centralization ensuring a balance of agility and firm handling.

Tuned For Distance

Whether you're looking for sporty riding or comfortable touring, the Ninja® 1000SX motorcycle's suspension is fine-tuned to make the most of sport touring. The 41mm inverted front fork features stepless compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability. The horizontal back-link rear suspension offers remote rebound and preload adjustability for tandem riding, luggage or rider preference.

Confident Grip

Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires contribute to light handling while offering enhanced grip in both dry and wet conditions.

DREAM COMBINATION

The Ninja® 1000SX motorcycle seamlessly blends the best of sport touring and superbike technology to deliver legendary Ninja® performance.

Kawasaki Quick Shifter

Dual-direction Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) allows both clutchless upshifts and downshifts for seamless acceleration and smooth deceleration.

Data-Driven Performance

A compact Bosch IMU enables inertia along 6 Degrees of Freedom to be monitored. Acceleration along longitudinal, transverse and vertical axes plus roll rate and pitch rate are measured. The yaw rate is calculated by the ECU using Kawasaki’s proprietary dynamic modeling software.

Acceleration & Stability

The IMU-enhanced feedback version of Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) predicts conditions and acts before slippage exceeds the range for optimal traction.

A Mode for Every Road

Integrated riding modes link Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) and Power Modes to offer varying traction control and power delivery settings to suit different riding conditions. - Sport mode enables sporty riding for winding roads. - Road mode offers comfortable riding over a wide range of conditions. - Rain mode delivers reassurance over wet surfaces. - Rider (manual) mode lets you set each system independently.

Hold the Line

The Ninja® 1000SX utilizes advanced technology to deliver superior cornering performance. The Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF) uses input from the IMU to enable a control function: cornering management, which monitors engine and chassis parameters to assist riders in holding their intended line through corners.

All the Power You Need

Riders can set power delivery to suit conditions and/or preference. Low power mode limits power output to approximately 70% of full power and delivers a milder throttle. Full power mode utilizes 100% engine power.

• RIDING MODES
• POWER MODES

NEXT-LEVEL TECHNOLOGY

Key enhancements bring Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) WorldSBK championship-proven electronics management technology to the Ninja® 1000SX. This results in precise chassis orientation awareness that helps the rider adapt to a range of typical riding conditions and scenarios.

The 5-position clutch lever can be adjusted to suit the size of the rider’s hands based on rider preference.

Wide & Comfortable

Rider and passenger seat material offers superb elasticity and resistance to cold temperatures for optimal comfort. The rider seat is fabricated of dense, springy urethane cushioning that helps retain original shape.

Ergonomic & Easy

The ergonomically sculpted passenger grips are easy to hold and naturally positioned.

Relaxed & Comfortable

Adaptable, relaxed upright riding position is comfortable and optimized to accommodate a full range of riding situations.

Make Every Ride A Breeze

An adjustable windshield offers four available positions ranging from sporty to maximum wind protection. Set up is easy and doesn't require any tools.

• CLUTCH LEVER
• PASSENGER GRIPS
• RIDING POSITION

ALL-DAY COMFORT

A variety of intuitive features contribute to the overall rideability and comfort of the Ninja® 1000SX.

CONVENIENCE

Digital landscape.

All-digital TFT (thin-film transistor) color instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance and visibility. The screen’s background color is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light. Display functions include: digital speedometer, gear position indicator, upshift indicator, odometer, dual trip meter, fuel gauge, cruising distance, average fuel consumption, outside temperature, water temperature, clock, economical riding indicator, IMU indicator, KIBS indicator, boost pressure and boost temperature.

GET CONNECTED

A Bluetooth® chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using smartphone connectivity (via RIDEOLOGY THE APP*) a number of instrument functions can be accessed allowing you to view vehicle info, riding log, phone notifications, and general settings.

Intelligent & Responsive

The Ninja® 1000SX is equipped with Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS), a supersport-grade high-precision multi-sensing ABS brake assistance system. Plus, an electric cruise control system allows a desired speed to be maintained with the simple press of a button. Previous model year shown.

Easily Attach & Remove

The Ninja® 1000SX features a clean-mount side case system that allows KQR™ side cases* to be attached and removed easily for added convenience.

Power Up Your Devices

A DC power outlet (knock out) in dash area enables the addition of a DC power outlet to power devices/accessories.*

• INSTRUMENTATION
• SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY
• SIDE CASE SYSTEM
• DC POWER OUTLET

RIDE FARTHER

Features such as a full color display meter that displays detailed and useful information and a DC power outlet allow you to ride longer and enjoy more.

Form & Function

Sporty front and side fairings with sharp, edgy lines provide modern styling and optimized wind protection. A single-sided muffler further enhances the inherent Ninja® styling, reflecting the dynamic experience you get with every ride.

Signature Ninja ® Look

Chin spoilers similar to those on the Ninja H2® and Ninja® ZX™-10R motorcycles strengthen the family resemblance.

Integrated & Modern

Front and rear turn signals are integrated, contributing to the modern aggressive sportbike image.

Superb Visibility

See and be seen with dual low-profile LED headlights that feature low and high beams for excellent brightness.

• CHIN SPOILERS
• TURN SIGNALS

SHARP & EDGY

The modern aggressive styling and sharp lines of the Ninja® 1000SX sportbike make it unmistakably Ninja®.

Non-U.S. model specs may be depicted. Equipment illustrated and specification may vary to meet individual markets.

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Top Touring Bikes For Experienced Riders

T raveling cross-country on two wheels has been around ever since someone decided to shove a motor into a bicycle frame back in the late 1800s . The roads were much crummier back than. As was the rest of the traveling infrastructure. We got it easy, now-a-days, with restaurants, gas and charging stations around every corner, as well as smooth, paved roads to get us there. And so has the motorcycle gone through a metamorphosis of sorts, splintering into many different styles and levels of comfort for the cross-country going crowd.

And here you are, an ambitious rider looking to take your passion for motorcycles to the next level. For many, this means planning a trip that’s longer than a few hours. Though you could experience your new adventure on any bike, a motorcycle that is comfortable enough to ride for hours on end would be the prudent choice. It also needs to have an engine powerful enough to carry the weight of you, your gear and possibly a passenger, while also withstanding many punishing miles of pavement.

Updated May 2023: No matter what country you live in, chances are, if you're a rider, you'd love nothing more than to explore it on two wheels . And you could do it on just about any bike. But some motorcycles are better for longer trips than others, and to keep our readers up to speed on all the latest models, we'll be updating this article periodically.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why You Should Buy A Touring Bike

BMW R 1250 RT

When shopping for a touring bike, you can’t go wrong with a BMW motorcycle. The BMW R 1250 RT is a perfect example of this. Nicknamed the king of touring, this bike has every bell and whistle you could ever want. It features classic sport-touring styling, innovative technology, and a smooth engine.

The result is a motorcycle that feels like a luxury cruise. Twist the throttle and feel the smooth and consistent acceleration of the 1,254cc Twin with BMW ShiftCam. The elegant styling does more than just look pretty too, for example, the gently curved windshield arches back to guide the wind over and around the rider.

Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX

The track-ready H2 gets all the attention. However, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX is the unsung hero , its 988cc engine delivers plenty of power, but note that it is controlled power. Instead of the hair-raising, face-melting experience of the H2, you have a more mature riding experience on the SX.

Instead of an aggressive leaned forward and tucked riding position, the H2 SX has a more neutral riding position. Kawasaki has a reputation for reliability, making it a smart bike for cross-country rides. The adjustable suspension and built-in technology make it perfect for customizing your ride to have an enjoyable experience.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why We Love The Kawasaki Z H2

Honda Gold Wing

The Honda Gold Wing has a well deserved reputation , what started as a large naked bike, evolved into a velvet smooth, feature rich SUV of a motorcycle we know and love today. Of course that doesn't come without a catch. The bike weighs a ton at 848 pounds. However, Honda engineers considered this, so the bike comes with a reverse mode to make maneuvering the bike a breeze. The large cushioned seats for both the rider and their passenger make this bike incredibly popular among couples who want to travel together.

Kawasaki Concours 14

The Kawasaki Concours is the cousin of the Kawasaki ZX14. Both bikes have similar styling and the same 1,352cc inline four-cylinder engine. The difference between the bikes is that the Concours 14 has a more neutral riding position and different engine tuning. As a result, riders have a lot more low and mid-range power, which makes the bike ideal for riding long distances at highway speeds.

The bike also comes standard with hard saddlebags to be trip-ready off the showroom floor. Kawasaki engineered them to easily install, remove, and lock with the ignition key. Despite being a sport touring bike, it doesn’t lose its agile handling thanks to the rigid monocoque frame.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT appears, at first glance, to have an identity crisis. It looks like an adventure bike, though it is at its happiest on pavement, as a sport tourer. And that connection to adventure riding is no accident. Yamaha built it for riders who love the rugged looks of ADV bikes, but don't feel compelled to take these large machines into the nearest forest.

They're just as happy to pack on mile after mile on highways and local roads. And with its 890-cc in-line triple engine smoothly beating away at its core, the Tracer 9 GT will be one of the most comfortable, yet sporty options out there. Add the fairly low seat height of roughly 32 inches and a five gallon tank, and you're good to go for hundreds of miles.

Indian Chieftain Dark Horse

There's more than one kind of motorcycle to take on a cross-country trip. You could take a sport touring bike, a naked standard or even an adventure bike. But let's not forget that cruisers and baggers is where all the modern touring really started, as they existed way before many of the other styles of bikes came to be.

The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is one such bike, harking back to the old days of laid back riding. It has a tough appeal to it that gives off more attitude than the typical touring motorcycle. The low seat and cruiser body positioning make this bike incredibly comfortable. The powerful 1,890cc engine and hefty weight of 823 pounds make this bike better for cruising the highway than conquering the corners though. It also comes with all the hallmark cruiser features, and large saddlebags for plenty of storage for all your personal belongings.

RELATED: 10 Best Indian Cruisers Money Can Buy

MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso

Most people don't know that MV Agusta makes a touring motorcycle. However, this lesser-known Italian motorcycle manufacturer produces the Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso. Unlike other touring motorcycles that focus on practicality and functionality, MV Agusta made a bike that is also beautiful to look at. Even with the saddlebags installed, it doesn’t scream tourist. The 798cc three-cylinder engine is lightweight and nimble, making for a smooth yet responsive riding experience. In addition, the bike's over-stylized design and bright red coloring grab attention everywhere you go.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT

This heavyweight adventure sport touring bike is built for anything. Its rugged build and design make it perfect for the rider who wants to do more than stay on the perfectly manicured U.S. highways. Although with the GT moniker, which stands for Grand Tour, there's no mistaking what Triumph really made it for. The engineers at the British manufacturer continually work to make the Tiger better with each model. The powerful 1200cc engine in the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT delivers plenty of power to move you, your passenger, and all of your gear. The engine is actually a repurposed Speed Triple 1200 RS engine. It is then paired with performance-minded components like a Showa semi-active suspension, a Tri-Link swingarm with a shaft final drive, and a lightweight trellis frame.

RELATED: Why The Triumph Tiger 900 Is Underrated

Suzuki GSX-S1000GT

Of all the touring motorcycles on this list, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT looks and rides the most like a true sport bike. While the riding position isn’t as aggressively forward as other sport bikes, it is more leaned forward than many other tourers. It comes with a 999cc engine that, while smaller than other touring bikes, packs more punch and acceleration. This lightweight bike comes with hard saddlebags for secure packing. Staying true to the Suzuki lineup, the GSX-S1000GT is reliable for logging miles on long rides.

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Highway King

You better believe that Harley was going to be a huge part of the touring market. Along with Indian, back in the day, they may as well have invented the whole idea of how to do it right. Plush, comfortable seats, large windshields and plenty of open roads ahead, and nothing screams 'touring' louder than the HD Electra Glide Highway King .

If you're looking for a throwback machine, without all the unreliable components that come with vintage bikes, then this Harley is a true beaut. And other than its looks, there's also plenty of that Harley torque and horsepower to pull you along at a steady clip, and not much else to get in the way of having the scenery wash over your senses.

RELATED: First Look At Harley-Davidson’s 2023 Electra Glide Highway King

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

Ducati are known to be the kings of premium motorcycles with amazing technology and gorgeous looks. And though they're known mostly for their sport bikes and their scrambler offshoots, they've also dipped their toes into touring. As such, the Ducati Multistrada comes in many forms, but the V4 S seems ideally placed to be the premier cross-country motorcycle of everyone's dreams.

It's meant to do everything from highway stretches, to local roads to even some light off-roading. But it mostly feels at home on pavement. That's where its 170hp V4 Granturismo engine comes alive, its extensive suite of electronics feels most helpful and its over-engineered aerodynamics come into play. There's simply no beating its comfort, style and performance.

BMW R 18 Transcontinental

You could take just about any BMW motorcycle on a long trip, depending on how far forward you are willing to lean. The aforementioned R 1250 RT is one such option, but the German bike maker has another weapon up its sleeve, and it's aimed directly at American tourers. The R 18 Transcontinental is a massive yet striking bike, with its gorgeous boxer engine protruding from its sides like a hammerhead shark's head. And though its big and heavy, the weight is all down low, making it extremely balanced. It comes with all prerequisite touring features as well, like hard bags, and a front fairing.

CFMoto 650 Adventura

If you're on a modest budget, however, then the CFMoto 650 Adventure may be the perfect bike to take on the road. It's parallel twin engine outputs 60 hp which is perfect for steady riding on highways and byways of any country. And what's more, it comes with hard cases and an adjustable windshield pre-installed. Not bad for a motorcycle that's priced just shy of $7,000. The only downside of owning a CFMoto is a somewhat limited dealer network in the US, which could cause some delays in getting parts and getting maintenance or repairs done.

Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello

Much has been written about the thoroughly modern and surprising Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello. The stylish, well-received bike is poised to be the breakout star of the touring market, with the likes of Ewan McGregor giving it a publicity push on behalf of Moto Guzzi. But the Italian machine is more than just looks. It's smooth, balanced and fast. It's also super comfortable for longer journeys and comes with a multitude of rider aides such as an electronically adjustable windshield and automatic wind deflectors. So if you're planning on tackling the Rockies any time soon, why not do it with some Italian style.

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UnRally XIII - Moscow Paved Routes

By Al_B June 4, 2014 in 2014

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The following post contains links to the UnRally XIII paved routes from Moscow, Idaho. The routes are available in *.gdb and *.gpx format for people to load directly to their GPS units. For people that don't use a GPS to help them get lost, we will provide detailed turn-by-turn directions for specific routes if you request them. At this time, we haven't prepared these directions since we don't know how many people want or will use them.

Route naming information:

• In general, lower number routes have shorter total distance than higher number routes.

• Routes with just a number are the route from the BWI Moscow to the destination. Routes with a letter descriptor (i.e., 1A, 1B, etc.) are various return route options to the BWI from the destination. Higher letters denote longer routes.

• The "All Routes" files have all of the destination and return routes in a single file.

• Any of the routes can be ridden in reverse direction if you prefer. In general, if there was a choice of riding direction for the twistier portions, the uphill option has been chosen.

• Route distances and time estimates are from MapSource calculations. They do not include stoppage times, but may estimate slower speeds than you travel at.

When riding on back roads (particularly in Washington) BE AWARE OF FARMING EQUIPMENT OF THESE ROADS, as they are often large and occupying portions of both lanes.

Watch for deer on all the routes. They are very fast and many of the forested routes have limited right-of-way clearings.

The link to the summary spreadsheet of the route distances and times is Route Summary Spreadsheet .

Following are the links to the Route files (note that the miles shown are the shortest return option):

Route 1 Steptoe Butte GDB or Steptoe Butte GPX 89 miles

Route 2 Elk River GDB or Elk River GPX 123 miles

Route 3 Lower Granite Dam GDB or Lower Granite Dam GPX 157 miles

Route 4 Palouse Falls GDB or Palouse Falls GPX 221 miles

Route 5 Coeur d'Alene GDB or Coeur d'Alene GPX 209 miles

Route 6 Weippe GDB or Weippe GPX 211 miles

Route 7 RattlesnakeCanyon-Enterprise GDB or RattlesnakeCanyon-Enterprise GPX 252 miles

Route 8 St Joe River Scenic Byway GDB or St Joe River Scenic Byway GPX 325 miles

Route 9 Elk City GDB or Elk City GPX 321 miles

Route 10 Lolo Pass Summit GDB or Lolo Pass Summit GPX 390 miles

All Routes Composite File GDB or All Routes Composite File GPX

Since this is my first time using Dropbox for storing files, there may be some problems. If you notice links that aren't working or files that don't make sense, please let me know so I can try to fix them.

Written descriptions for the routes will follow in a couple of days, but I wanted to get the GPS routes out now so people could start looking at them if they want.

Link to comment

John ranalletta.

Thanks for all the hard work. I downloaded each of the GPX files and had no problems accessing them in your Dropbox. I'm using a Mac and the only minor hiccup is that when I download a GPX file, it adds another file suffix (.txt) to each one. Before I import the downloaded file into Basecamp, I have to go in and delete that ".txt" suffix. After that, I imported each one into BC and they all display nicely. I have not yet loaded them onto my GPS (Nav V), but I don't see why that would present any problems.

szurszewski

All works great for me too. I don't actually have a gps, but when I do want one (rarely) for stuff like this I load the gpx files into MotionX GPS on my iPhone - I might try to find something else for this trip though.

Anyway, I accessed a couple of the .gpx files through the links and downloaded them to my Mac as well - it didn't append .txt (or anything else - just left them alone) and it worked great. Thanks!

I just finished loading all of these routes onto my Nav V. It re-calculated all of them, so presumably they were created on a different mapset than I have in BC and on my Nav. Opened a number of them in my Nav V and all seem fine.

Dennis Andress

Someday I'll have a Global Positioning Sphere too...

Following are links to the write-ups for the routes. These are meant to be general descriptions of the routes and return route options to supplement the GPS route files - not turn by turn directions.

We are still trying to confirm some details about road status for Routes 2, 8 and 10 and we will amend the write-ups when we get more information.

1 Steptoe Butte

2 Elk River

3 Lower Granite Dam

4 Palouse Falls

5 Coeur d'Alene

7 Rattlesnake Canyon-Enterprise

8 St. Joe River Scenic Byway

10 Lolo Pass Summit

Let me know if you have any difficulties with the files or if you notice any mistakes. Thanks.

Thanks to mnTwin for pointing out that the link to the Steptoe Butte description is broken.

Hopefully the following link will work:

Steptoe Butte

Top notch service Al! Many thanks. I was really kinda stumped at where to ride. Like a kid who goes to Baskin-Robbins, you don't want to waste your three scoops (or three days) on a flavor that sucks. There is lots to choose from

Route Revision Notes

I appreciate the comments about the routes - I enjoy making them up and I hope that everyone enjoys riding them.

I thought that I should point out that there are several revisions that have taken place to 3 of the routes since they were first posted (revised versions are now in DropBox links). If you've downloaded these files already, you may want to get the newer versions if you're thinking of riding the following routes.

Route 2 - Elk River has revised text in the write-up to update that we have found out the Back Country Scenic Byway in Route 2B still includes an 8 - 10 mile section of GRAVEL. MikeRC will be checking out the condition and suitability for street bike travel early in the rally and will report back.

Route 5 - Coeur d'Alene has an alternate route added using WA 27 to get to Coeur d'Alene instead of riding up US 95 in Idaho - this a more laid-back, scenic option with less traffic. GDB, GPX and write-up files have been revised.

Route 9 - Elk City had a revised Route 091 added. This incorporates the Winchester Grade into the route (thanks MikeRC) and also changes the direction of travel to counter-clockwise to give more uphill, twisty sections. GDB, GPX and write-up files have been revised.

Note that the All Routes GDB and GPX files now contain all the revised routes as well.

Having trouble downloading. You mentioned written descriptions. Are they available? I looked but did not find. Thanks

Post #888167 above has the links to the documents (with written descriptions). Post #888227 has a corrected link for Steptoe Butte. Clicking on each link should take you to the dropbox page where the file is located--you can download from there.

Thanks for the work on the routes. I have them all on my Zumo 550.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Metzeler Roadtec 02 Tire Review

Evaluating a sport-touring tire in extreme conditions

Designing a sport-touring tire must be one of the hardest challenges in motorcycling. In a way, you’re asking for it all. The sport-touring customer wants a tire that offers handling like a sportbike, but with the mileage of a touring bike. And let’s not forget, wet performance is of the utmost importance. Is it possible to have your cake and eat it, too?

Well, the short answer is no. There’s always going to be a compromise somewhere, but that’s not going to stop manufacturers from trying. Naturally, tire companies do their best to examine their current offerings and improve upon them, and when testers like Yours Truly get a hold of these new tires, inevitably the day that we have to see if they’re any good is usually bright and sunny (aka perfect). Not a lot gets learned other than how quickly (or not) a tire comes up to working temperature.

That’s all about to change this time around. If you’ve been dying to know how a sport-touring tire performs in the wet, then you’re in luck, because with the Metzeler Roadtec 02, the company’s latest sport-touring rubber, we were treated to all that the heavens had in store for us. Dark clouds hung above us and pissed down rain like we were cartoon characters destined to bad luck. Not only was it wet, but we were also met with wind blasts, temps in the 40s and 50s, and occasional fog so thick we couldn’t see more than 25 feet in front of us. This is bad weather wherever you are, but for this test we found ourselves at none other than the Isle of Man TT course. Talk about a place where you want confidence in your tires.

Despite all the challenges we faced, I’m happy to report the Roadtec 02s were not one of them.

Tire Tech Talk

More than just round, black, and sticky, there’s some actual science that goes into the making of any tire. I’ll try to keep the boring stuff to a minimum here, but with the Roadtec 02, Metzeler’s goal was to take the Roadtec 01 and improve upon its wet handling, but more importantly, what Metzeler calls “soft” and “hard” handling. In the simplest terms, we’re talking about slow-speed handling (soft) and high-speed handling (hard).

Metzeler’s idea for achieving this was to use the broader profile and stiffer carcass of a sport-touring tire and give it sport compounds. Unlike true sport tires though, sport-touring tires need to be able to work in all kinds of conditions, especially cold and wet ones. This is why the front tire features a new full-silica compound, as silica is excellent at allowing rubber to grip the asphalt, even when temps are low and the ground is wet. In fact, with this new formula, Metzeler says the Roadtec 02 offers 5% more wet grip than the Roadtec 01 and over 10% more grip in the dry. This same silica compound is used on the shoulders of the rear tire for optimum grip while cornering. In the middle, there’s a higher concentration of silica, but it’s not the same level as the front or sides. The harder center compound, combined with Metzeler’s 0º Belt technology, which wraps the steel cords around the circumference of the tire parallel to the direction of travel (instead of perpendicular), not only allows the rear tire to maintain its structure and shape at high speeds, but also helps with longevity and consistent performance as the tire wears.

But the real talking point with the Roadtec 02 is the tread pattern itself. Metzeler’s newest tech, the adaptive Dynatread Technology. Simply put, at low speeds (or Soft handling in Metzeler terms), the tread sipes flex and deform – this is what really gets your tires warm and up to temperature (not weaving). Secondly, it allows water to evacuate. At higher speeds (aka Hard handling), the sipes flex and deform so much that they actually come together and touch, minimizing the void of rubber caused by the sipe in the first place and effectively putting more rubber on the ground.

Of course, Metzeler provided us with diagrams and charts to show us the improvements the Roadtec 02 has over the 01, but the one I found most interesting – and one I hadn’t considered – is how tire design affects the rider aids on today’s motorcycles. Specifically, in this case, ABS. If you can get on the brakes without triggering ABS, then the mechanical grip of the tires can handle the load being put on them, which will bring you to a stop faster. Compared to the Roadtec 01, the 02 triggered ABS less often, and required fewer ABS cycles. The result is the ability to brake later, stop sooner, and experience less of the dreaded ABS pulsing at the lever when it does happen.

Back To The Isle

Certainly the ability to stop is important, especially in the wet, but during our time on the Isle we were more concerned about staying warm, staying dry, and at points simply seeing the road in front of us. Fortunately, we were being led by people who knew the roads better than anyone – primarily Richard “Milky” Quayle. Born and bred on the island, the Manxman is the last local to win a TT race and now guides newcomers to the TT. The fog was so thick in spots I couldn’t see his hi-viz yellow jacket two bikes in front of me. I had to rely on his brake light to know when to slow down.

It’s hard to evaluate tires when the conditions were so treacherous, but as I look back on the ride itself and all the things I had to worry about, the tires weren’t one of them. The BMW R 1250 R I was riding for the majority of the day simply tracked wherever I pointed it. Knee-down lean angles were the last thing on my mind on this day, but when we had the chance to goose it down the Sulby Straight – where the Superbikes touch 200 mph – I got it up to 70 mph without a hint of aquaplaning. Not hero speeds by any means, but it sure was lively considering the conditions. Slowing down didn’t present any drama either. I was never hard on the brakes, but a firm squeeze felt like the tire was digging in and scrubbing speed.

Ultimately, while we all would have much rather ridden the epic course in the dry, these terrible conditions brought out a side of sport-touring rubber we don’t normally get to see – and the Roadtec 02 was impressive. The fastest average speed around the TT course is a tick over 136 mph. I can now say I’ve done the course at an average of 36 mph (probably) in some gnarly conditions and lived to tell the tale. Did Metzeler deliver with its wet performance? I’d say so. Unfortunately, I’ll have to save my thoughts on dry performance for another time. The Roadtec 02 is available in all popular sizes for 17-inch wheels.

• Helmet: Shoei X-15 Marquez Motegi 4 Helmet
• Suit: Aerostich R-3 Men’s One-Piece
• Airbag: Alpinestars Tech-Air 5
• Gloves: Racer Gloves Formula - Discontinued
• Boots: RST S-1 Waterproof Boot

Front Tire Sizes

• 120/70 ZR17 M/C (58W) TL
• 110/80 R 19 M/C 59V TL
• 120/70 ZR19 M/C 60W TL

Rear Tire Sizes

• 150/70 R 17 M/C 69V TL
• 160/60 ZR 17 M/C (69W) TL
• 170/60 ZR 17 M/C 72W TL
• 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL
• 190/50 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL
• 190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL
• 190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL (O) (for big sport-tourers)

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Troy's been riding motorcycles and writing about them since 2006, getting his start at Rider Magazine. From there, he moved to Sport Rider Magazine before finally landing at Motorcycle.com in 2011. A lifelong gearhead who didn't fully immerse himself in motorcycles until his teenage years, Troy's interests have always been in technology, performance, and going fast. Naturally, racing was the perfect avenue to combine all three. Troy has been racing nearly as long as he's been riding and has competed at the AMA national level. He's also won multiple club races throughout the country, culminating in a Utah Sport Bike Association championship in 2011. He has been invited as a guest instructor for the Yamaha Champions Riding School, and when he's not out riding, he's either wrenching on bikes or watching MotoGP.

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