For those who enjoy the thrill of the open road, there’s nothing quite like riding a motorcycle. Whether it’s a weekend trip or just a ride to work, motorcycles offer you a feeling of freedom and adventure that no other form of transport can give. And for those who are looking for something a bit sportier, a sport touring motorcycle may be the perfect way to go.
A sport touring bike is designed for long-distance touring on roads and highways with the emphasis on long rides in comfort. These powerful machines have the speed and agility of a race bike, but also comfort and touring capabilities like a heavy touring bike.
Whether you’re on a cross-country odyssey or just out for a weekend ride, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best sport touring motorcycles available so you can pick the perfect one for your budget and riding style.
What is a Sport Touring Motorcycle?
A sport touring motorcycle is a lightweight, powerful, and agile machine that is specifically designed for long-distance touring on roads and highways. This type of motorcycle features an upright seating position that allows you to comfortably ride for long periods of time, as well as powerful engines, fairings, luggage, and other features that make it perfectly suited for touring.
Advantages of a Sport Touring Motorcycle
There are many advantages that come with owning a sport touring motorcycle, including:
• Upright seating position: The upright seating position on a sport touring motorcycle is designed for long-distance comfort and for excellent control.
• Aerodynamic design: The aerodynamic design of a sport touring motorcycle reduces wind drag, which makes for a much smoother ride at higher speeds.
• Powerful engine: Sport touring bikes are equipped with powerful engines that allow you to reach high speeds quickly.
• Touring capabilities: Sport touring motorcycles have the touring and comfort features of a heavy touring bike, such as luggage, cruise control, and comfortable seating.
• Performance features: Sport touring motorcycles have all the performance features of a race bike, such as power and agility.
Top 10 Sport Touring Motorcycles
Now that you know what a sport touring motorcycle is and the advantages they offer, here is a list of the top 10 sport touring motorcycles you can buy to enjoy the thrilling freedom of the open road.
- BMW K 1600 GT
The BMW K 1600 GT is powered by a 1,649cc 6-cylinder engine that delivers 160 hp, making it one of the most powerful sport touring bikes on the market. It also features a seamless 6-speed gearbox, adjustable electronic suspension, cruise control, and advanced rider assistance systems such as lane warning, blind spot, and adaptive headlights.
- Honda Goldwing
The Honda Goldwing is one of the most iconic sport touring motorbikes in the world. It is powered by a liquid-cooled 1,833cc six-cylinder engine that pumps out a massive 180 hp. Other features include a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, ABS, air-adjustable suspension, and a 5.5 inch LCD dash display.
- Yamaha FJR1300
The Yamaha FJR1300 is a top-of-the-line sport touring motorcycle that has a strong 1,198cc four-cylinder engine that can produce up to 146 hp. It also features a 6-speed gearbox, traction control, adjustable suspension, and a fully adjustable seat.
- Kawasaki Voyager
The Kawasaki Voyager is a powerful sport touring motorbike with a 1,700 cc four-cylinder engine that can reach 130 hp of peak power. It also has a 6-speed gearbox, adjustable level 2 electronic traction control, air-adjustable suspension, and a height-adjustable seat.
- Ducati Multistrada
The Ducati Multistrada is a versatile sport touring bike with a liquid-cooled 1,262cc four-cylinder engine that produces up to 152 hp of peak power. It also features a 6-speed gearbox, adjustable suspension, and a full-color TFT dash.
- Triumph Tiger Explorer
The Triumph Tiger Explorer is an agile sport touring motorcycle with a 1,215 cc four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 140 hp. It also features a 6-speed gearbox, adjustable traction control, switchable ABS, and an adjustable seat.
- Moto Guzzi California
The Moto Guzzi California is a classic sport touring motorcycle that has a liquid-cooled 1,151cc four-cylinder engine that produces up to 118 hp. It also has a 5-speed gearbox, adjustable electronic suspension, cruise control, and a classic café racer style.
- Suzuki V-Strom 650
The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is one of the most popular mid-range sport touring motorbikes. It has a 645cc four-cylinder engine that produces up to 70 hp of peak power. It also has adjustable suspension, ABS, and a powerful headlight.
- Suzuki V-Strom 1000
The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 is powered by a 1,037cc four-cylinder engine that produces up to 100 hp of peak power. It also features adjustable suspension, advanced rider assistance systems such as traction control and cornering headlights, and a height-adjustable seat.
- Honda VFR1200X
The Honda VFR1200X is a powerful sport touring bike with a 1,237cc V4 engine that produces up to 127 hp of peak power. It also has a 6-speed gearbox, adjustable traction control, and advanced electronic rider assistance systems.
Choosing the Right Sport Touring Motorcycle
Now that you know some of the top sport touring motorcycles you can buy, the next step is to choose the right one for your needs and budget. Consider the following factors before making a decision:
• Price: Sport touring motorcycles can range from being reasonably priced to expensive depending on the make and model.
• Power: Choose a bike with enough power for your needs and for the type of roads you’ll be riding on.
• Features: Look for bikes with features that are important to you, such as adjustable suspension, adjustable traction control, wind protection, cruise control, and a comfortable seat.
• Versatility: Choose a bike that can handle different types of roads, such as highways, twisty mountain roads, and city streets.
Riding a sport touring motorcycle is a thrilling and liberating experience that can take you to amazing places. With the right bike, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road while having all the comfort and features that a luxury touring motorcycle offers. We hope this list of the best sport touring motorcycles has helped you to find the perfect one for you and your budget. Get out on the road, enjoy the ride, and let your dreams take you on an incredible journey.
