Top Sports Touring Motorcycles: Reviews & Comparisons

by Alex Braham 54 views

Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you crave that adrenaline rush of a sports bike but also need the comfort and practicality for those long-haul adventures. That's where the magic of sports touring motorcycles comes in! These amazing machines blend the best of both worlds, offering thrilling performance and all-day riding comfort. So, if you're on the hunt for the perfect sports touring motorcycle, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into some of the top contenders and explore what makes them so awesome.

What is a Sports Touring Motorcycle?

Before we jump into specific models, let's define what we mean by a "sports touring motorcycle." These bikes are designed to cover long distances at a brisk pace, offering a balance of sporty handling and comfortable ergonomics. Think of them as the Grand Tourers of the motorcycle world, capable of carving through twisty mountain roads and munching miles on the open highway with equal aplomb. You get the performance you want without sacrificing the comfort you need. This makes them ideal for riders who want a versatile machine that can handle weekend blasts and week-long trips.

Key characteristics of a sports touring motorcycle typically include:

  • Powerful Engine: Expect a motor with plenty of horsepower and torque for effortless acceleration and overtaking. We're talking about engines that can purr along smoothly at highway speeds but also deliver a thrilling punch when you twist the throttle. The engine is the heart of any sports touring machine, providing the power and responsiveness needed for both spirited riding and comfortable cruising.
  • Comfortable Ergonomics: Upright riding position, comfortable seat, and decent wind protection are essential for long days in the saddle. Say goodbye to wrist pain and backaches! These bikes are designed to keep you feeling fresh and energized, even after hours of riding. A well-designed ergonomic package is crucial for maximizing rider comfort and minimizing fatigue on long journeys.
  • Sporty Handling: While comfort is important, these bikes still need to handle well in the corners. A good sports tourer should feel planted and confident, inspiring you to tackle challenging roads with enthusiasm. Look for features like adjustable suspension and responsive brakes that enhance the bike's handling capabilities and provide a more engaging riding experience.
  • Luggage Capacity: Many sports touring motorcycles come with integrated luggage options or the ability to easily add panniers and a top box. This allows you to carry everything you need for your adventures, from clothes and gear to camping equipment and souvenirs. Ample storage space is a must for any serious touring machine, ensuring that you can bring all your essentials along for the ride.
  • Advanced Technology: Modern sports tourers often feature advanced electronics such as cruise control, traction control, riding modes, and heated grips. These technologies enhance rider safety, comfort, and convenience, making long journeys more enjoyable and less fatiguing. Stay connected and in control with the latest innovations in motorcycle technology.

Top Sports Touring Motorcycles on the Market

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the top sports touring motorcycles available right now, each with its own unique strengths and characteristics:

BMW R 1250 RS

The BMW R 1250 RS is a fantastic all-rounder that excels in both sporty riding and long-distance touring. Its 1,254cc boxer engine delivers a smooth and powerful riding experience, while the comfortable riding position and optional electronic suspension provide excellent comfort and handling. The R 1250 RS also boasts a range of advanced features, including cruise control, riding modes, and dynamic traction control, making it a versatile and capable machine for any adventure.

  • Engine: 1,254cc Boxer Twin
  • Power: 136 hp
  • Torque: 105 lb-ft
  • Key Features: Electronic suspension, cruise control, riding modes, dynamic traction control
  • Why it's great: The BMW R 1250 RS strikes a perfect balance between sporty performance and long-distance comfort. Its powerful engine, refined handling, and advanced features make it a top choice for riders who want a do-it-all motorcycle.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a popular choice for riders who want a sporty and affordable sports touring motorcycle. Its 1,043cc inline-four engine delivers plenty of power and torque, while the comfortable riding position and adjustable windscreen provide decent wind protection. The Ninja 1000SX also features a range of electronic aids, including traction control, riding modes, and cruise control, making it a well-rounded and capable machine for both commuting and touring.

  • Engine: 1,043cc Inline-Four
  • Power: 140 hp
  • Torque: 82 lb-ft
  • Key Features: Traction control, riding modes, cruise control, adjustable windscreen
  • Why it's great: The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX offers a fantastic combination of sporty performance, comfortable ergonomics, and affordable price. It's a great choice for riders who want a versatile motorcycle that can handle a variety of riding conditions.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a sporty and versatile sports touring motorcycle that offers a comfortable riding experience and plenty of features. Its 890cc inline-triple engine delivers a smooth and responsive power delivery, while the electronic suspension and adjustable windscreen provide excellent comfort and handling. The Tracer 9 GT also comes standard with features like cruise control, heated grips, and integrated luggage mounts, making it a well-equipped machine for long-distance touring.

  • Engine: 890cc Inline-Triple
  • Power: 117 hp
  • Torque: 69 lb-ft
  • Key Features: Electronic suspension, cruise control, heated grips, integrated luggage mounts
  • Why it's great: The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT offers a terrific blend of sporty performance, comfortable ergonomics, and touring-focused features. It's a great choice for riders who want a versatile motorcycle that can handle both spirited riding and long-distance travel.

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a high-performance sports touring motorcycle that offers unmatched levels of technology and performance. Its 1,158cc V4 engine delivers explosive power and torque, while the electronic suspension and advanced rider aids provide exceptional handling and control. The Multistrada V4 S also features a range of premium features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, and a large TFT display, making it a state-of-the-art machine for discerning riders.

  • Engine: 1,158cc V4
  • Power: 170 hp
  • Torque: 92 lb-ft
  • Key Features: Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, electronic suspension, large TFT display
  • Why it's great: The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a no-compromise sports touring motorcycle that offers unparalleled performance, technology, and luxury. It's a top choice for riders who demand the very best.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a raw and aggressive sports touring motorcycle that delivers an adrenaline-pumping riding experience. Its 1,301cc V-twin engine produces massive power and torque, while the sport-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes provide exceptional handling and stopping power. The Super Duke GT also features a range of advanced electronics, including lean-angle sensitive traction control and cornering ABS, making it a surprisingly capable machine for both sporty riding and long-distance touring.

  • Engine: 1,301cc V-Twin
  • Power: 173 hp
  • Torque: 104 lb-ft
  • Key Features: Lean-angle sensitive traction control, cornering ABS, sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes
  • Why it's great: The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a thrilling sports touring motorcycle that offers a unique blend of raw power, agile handling, and surprising comfort. It's a top choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all.

Choosing the Right Sports Touring Motorcycle

So, how do you choose the right sports touring motorcycle for you? Here are a few factors to consider:

  • Budget: Sports touring motorcycles can range in price from relatively affordable to quite expensive. Determine your budget and stick to it.
  • Riding Style: Do you prioritize sporty performance or long-distance comfort? Choose a motorcycle that aligns with your riding style.
  • Features: Consider which features are most important to you, such as cruise control, heated grips, or electronic suspension.
  • Test Ride: The best way to determine if a motorcycle is right for you is to take it for a test ride. This will give you a feel for the bike's handling, comfort, and performance.

Final Thoughts

Sports touring motorcycles offer a fantastic blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or just want a comfortable and capable motorcycle for weekend rides, a sports tourer could be the perfect choice. Do your research, consider your needs, and take a few test rides to find the motorcycle that's right for you. Happy riding, guys!