Top 10 Sport Touring Motorcycles Of The Year

Hey guys! Are you ready to hit the open road with a motorcycle that blends the thrill of sport riding with the comfort of long-distance touring? Then, you're in the right place! I've compiled a list of the top 10 sport touring motorcycles that promise to deliver unforgettable adventures. These bikes aren't just about speed; they're about the journey, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready for more. Let's dive in!

1. BMW R 1250 RT

The BMW R 1250 RT is often celebrated as the gold standard in the sport touring category. This motorcycle combines luxury, performance, and technology into a seamless package. The heart of the R 1250 RT is its 1,254cc boxer engine, which delivers a robust 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides smooth, responsive power across the entire rev range, making it perfect for both relaxed cruising and spirited riding. Whether you're tackling twisty mountain roads or cruising down the highway, the R 1250 RT offers an incredibly refined experience. Its advanced features, such as dynamic electronic suspension adjustment (ESA), ensure a comfortable and controlled ride regardless of the road conditions. The ESA system automatically adjusts the suspension damping to match the terrain, providing optimal stability and comfort. Additionally, the R 1250 RT comes equipped with riding modes that allow you to tailor the bike's performance to your preferences and the current riding environment. These modes include Rain, Road, and Dynamic, each offering a different throttle response, traction control setting, and ABS intervention level. The inclusion of cruise control further enhances the bike's touring capabilities, allowing you to maintain a consistent speed on long highway stretches without tiring your wrist. The R 1250 RT also boasts a comprehensive suite of technological features designed to enhance safety and convenience. These include a large TFT display that provides clear and concise information about the bike's status, navigation, and entertainment. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the intuitive menu system allows you to access and adjust various settings on the fly. In terms of comfort, the R 1250 RT excels with its ergonomic design and adjustable windscreen. The rider and passenger seats are designed to provide ample support for long days in the saddle, and the adjustable windscreen allows you to customize the level of wind protection. The bike also offers generous storage capacity, with integrated panniers that provide ample space for luggage. The R 1250 RT's combination of performance, technology, and comfort makes it an ideal choice for riders who demand the best in sport touring. It's a bike that's equally at home on a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure. Overall, the BMW R 1250 RT stands out as a top contender, offering a blend of power, comfort, and cutting-edge technology that sets it apart from the competition. Its refined engine, advanced suspension, and comprehensive features make it a joy to ride in any conditions, ensuring that every journey is a memorable one.

2. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a standout sport touring motorcycle that offers an impressive blend of performance, versatility, and value. It's powered by an 890cc inline-triple engine, which delivers a thrilling 117 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsive throttle, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. The Tracer 9 GT's engine provides ample power for overtaking and spirited riding, while its refined character ensures a comfortable experience during long-distance touring. The bike's lightweight chassis and agile handling make it a pleasure to ride on twisty roads, while its comfortable riding position and adjustable windscreen make it well-suited for long highway stretches. The Tracer 9 GT also comes equipped with a range of advanced features designed to enhance its touring capabilities. These include electronic cruise control, which allows you to maintain a consistent speed on the highway without tiring your wrist, and heated grips, which provide added comfort in cold weather. The bike's integrated hard saddlebags offer ample storage space for luggage, making it easy to pack for weekend getaways or longer trips. In addition to its touring features, the Tracer 9 GT also boasts a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. These include traction control, which helps prevent wheelspin on slippery surfaces, and cornering ABS, which provides added stability during hard braking in corners. The bike's riding modes allow you to tailor its performance to your preferences and the current riding conditions, with options for Sport, Standard, and Rain. The Tracer 9 GT also features a TFT display that provides clear and concise information about the bike's status, navigation, and entertainment. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the intuitive menu system allows you to access and adjust various settings on the fly. Overall, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a versatile and capable sport touring motorcycle that offers an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and value. Its powerful engine, agile handling, and comprehensive features make it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring twisty backroads, or embarking on a long-distance tour, the Tracer 9 GT is up to the task. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT distinguishes itself with its agile handling and rider-friendly technology, making it a top pick for riders seeking both excitement and comfort.

3. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a sport touring motorcycle that perfectly blends the aggressive styling and performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring machine. Powered by a 1,043cc inline-four engine, the Ninja 1000SX delivers a thrilling 140 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsive throttle, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. Whether you're carving through twisty mountain roads or cruising down the highway, the Ninja 1000SX offers an exhilarating experience. Its sporty handling and comfortable riding position make it a versatile choice for both short commutes and long-distance adventures. The Ninja 1000SX also comes equipped with a range of advanced features designed to enhance its touring capabilities. These include electronic cruise control, which allows you to maintain a consistent speed on the highway without tiring your wrist, and a comfortable rider and passenger seat that provides ample support for long days in the saddle. The bike's adjustable windscreen allows you to customize the level of wind protection, and its integrated hard saddlebags offer ample storage space for luggage. In addition to its touring features, the Ninja 1000SX also boasts a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. These include traction control, which helps prevent wheelspin on slippery surfaces, and cornering ABS, which provides added stability during hard braking in corners. The bike's riding modes allow you to tailor its performance to your preferences and the current riding conditions, with options for Sport, Road, Rain, and Rider (customizable). The Ninja 1000SX also features a TFT display that provides clear and concise information about the bike's status, navigation, and entertainment. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the intuitive menu system allows you to access and adjust various settings on the fly. Overall, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a well-rounded sport touring motorcycle that offers an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and style. Its powerful engine, sporty handling, and comprehensive features make it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring twisty backroads, or embarking on a long-distance tour, the Ninja 1000SX is up to the task. With its aggressive styling and versatile performance, it's sure to turn heads wherever you go. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX provides sportbike thrills with touring comfort, appealing to riders who want versatility.

4. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a beast of a sport touring motorcycle that combines the raw power of a superbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring machine. Powered by a 1,301cc V-twin engine, the Super Duke GT delivers a mind-blowing 175 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its explosive acceleration and relentless power delivery, making it an absolute thrill to ride. Whether you're blasting down the highway or carving through twisty mountain roads, the Super Duke GT offers an adrenaline-pumping experience. Its sporty handling and comfortable riding position make it a versatile choice for both short commutes and long-distance adventures. The Super Duke GT also comes equipped with a range of advanced features designed to enhance its touring capabilities. These include electronic cruise control, which allows you to maintain a consistent speed on the highway without tiring your wrist, and heated grips, which provide added comfort in cold weather. The bike's adjustable windscreen allows you to customize the level of wind protection, and its integrated hard saddlebags offer ample storage space for luggage. In addition to its touring features, the Super Duke GT also boasts a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. These include traction control, which helps prevent wheelspin on slippery surfaces, and cornering ABS, which provides added stability during hard braking in corners. The bike's riding modes allow you to tailor its performance to your preferences and the current riding conditions, with options for Sport, Street, and Rain. The Super Duke GT also features a TFT display that provides clear and concise information about the bike's status, navigation, and entertainment. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the intuitive menu system allows you to access and adjust various settings on the fly. Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a high-performance sport touring motorcycle that offers an unmatched combination of power, handling, and comfort. Its explosive engine, sporty chassis, and comprehensive features make it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring twisty backroads, or embarking on a long-distance tour, the Super Duke GT is up to the task. Just be prepared for the thrill of a lifetime! With the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT, expect superbike performance with added touring amenities for the adventurous rider.

5. Ducati Multistrada V4 S

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a revolutionary sport touring motorcycle that redefines the category with its cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and unmatched versatility. Powered by a 1,158cc V4 engine, the Multistrada V4 S delivers a thrilling 170 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsive throttle, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. Whether you're cruising down the highway, carving through twisty mountain roads, or exploring unpaved trails, the Multistrada V4 S offers an unparalleled experience. Its advanced suspension, lightweight chassis, and comprehensive electronics make it a versatile choice for any riding situation. The Multistrada V4 S also comes equipped with a range of advanced features designed to enhance its touring capabilities. These include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, and blind-spot detection, which alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots. The bike's comfortable rider and passenger seat provides ample support for long days in the saddle, and its adjustable windscreen allows you to customize the level of wind protection. The Multistrada V4 S also boasts a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. These include traction control, which helps prevent wheelspin on slippery surfaces, and cornering ABS, which provides added stability during hard braking in corners. The bike's riding modes allow you to tailor its performance to your preferences and the current riding conditions, with options for Sport, Touring, Urban, and Enduro. The Multistrada V4 S also features a TFT display that provides clear and concise information about the bike's status, navigation, and entertainment. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the intuitive menu system allows you to access and adjust various settings on the fly. Overall, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a groundbreaking sport touring motorcycle that sets a new standard for performance, technology, and versatility. Its powerful engine, advanced suspension, and comprehensive features make it a great choice for riders who demand the best. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring twisty backroads, or embarking on a long-distance tour, the Multistrada V4 S is up to the task. With its innovative features and exceptional capabilities, it's sure to impress even the most discerning riders. The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is packed with innovative technology and versatility, ready for any road or adventure.

6. Suzuki GSX-S1000GT

The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT is a sport touring motorcycle that offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value. Powered by a 999cc inline-four engine, the GSX-S1000GT delivers a thrilling 150 horsepower and 79 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsive throttle, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. Whether you're cruising down the highway or carving through twisty mountain roads, the GSX-S1000GT offers an exhilarating experience. Its sporty handling and comfortable riding position make it a versatile choice for both short commutes and long-distance adventures. The GSX-S1000GT also comes equipped with a range of advanced features designed to enhance its touring capabilities. These include electronic cruise control, which allows you to maintain a consistent speed on the highway without tiring your wrist, and a comfortable rider and passenger seat that provides ample support for long days in the saddle. The bike's adjustable windscreen allows you to customize the level of wind protection, and its integrated hard saddlebags offer ample storage space for luggage. In addition to its touring features, the GSX-S1000GT also boasts a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. These include traction control, which helps prevent wheelspin on slippery surfaces, and ABS, which provides added stability during hard braking. The bike's riding modes allow you to tailor its performance to your preferences and the current riding conditions, with options for Sport, Normal, and Rain. The GSX-S1000GT also features a TFT display that provides clear and concise information about the bike's status, navigation, and entertainment. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the intuitive menu system allows you to access and adjust various settings on the fly. Overall, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT is a well-rounded sport touring motorcycle that offers an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and value. Its powerful engine, sporty handling, and comprehensive features make it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring twisty backroads, or embarking on a long-distance tour, the GSX-S1000GT is up to the task. With its sleek styling and versatile performance, it's sure to impress. The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT offers a great balance of sport and touring capabilities at a competitive price point.

7. Aprilia Caponord 1200

The Aprilia Caponord 1200 is a sport touring motorcycle that combines Italian flair with practical features. Powered by a 1,197cc V-twin engine, it delivers a robust 125 horsepower and 85 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers smooth power delivery, making it suitable for both spirited rides and long-distance journeys. The Caponord 1200 stands out with its ADD (Aprilia Dynamic Damping) suspension system, which automatically adjusts the suspension to provide optimal comfort and control based on road conditions and riding style. This feature enhances the bike's ability to handle various terrains and load conditions. The bike includes rider aids such as traction control, ABS, and multiple riding modes (Sport, Touring, and Rain), allowing riders to customize performance to suit different riding conditions. Cruise control is also standard, adding convenience for long highway stretches. The Caponord 1200 is designed with rider comfort in mind, featuring an adjustable windscreen and a comfortable saddle. While it may not have the most modern tech compared to newer models, it still provides a comprehensive suite of features for touring. The Aprilia Caponord 1200 delivers Italian style and dynamic handling, making it a distinctive choice in the sport touring segment.

8. Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro

The Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro is a versatile sport touring motorcycle designed for adventure and comfort. It features an 888cc inline-triple engine that produces 94 horsepower and 64 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its distinctive sound and responsive performance, making it enjoyable in various riding conditions. The GT Pro model comes equipped with electronically adjustable rear suspension, enhancing comfort and handling by adapting to different load and road conditions. The bike features multiple riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-Road), each adjusting throttle response, traction control, and ABS to suit different environments. It also includes lean-sensitive ABS and traction control for added safety. Rider comfort is prioritized with heated seats and grips, cruise control, and an adjustable windscreen. The bike also features a large TFT display that provides clear and comprehensive information, along with integrated My Triumph Connectivity System for navigation and smartphone integration. The Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro is a well-rounded option for riders seeking both adventure and comfort in a sport touring package.

9. Honda NT1100

The Honda NT1100 is a sport touring motorcycle that blends comfort, practicality, and modern technology. It is powered by a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine, delivering 101 horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for long-distance touring. The NT1100 features a comfortable riding position, adjustable windscreen, and standard cruise control, all contributing to enhanced rider comfort on long journeys. Integrated panniers provide ample storage space for luggage, making it practical for touring. The bike is equipped with a 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen display that offers clear information and intuitive control. It also includes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration for seamless smartphone connectivity. Rider aids include multiple riding modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and ABS, providing confidence and control in various riding conditions. The Honda NT1100 offers all-day comfort and modern amenities, making it a great choice for riders prioritizing practicality and ease of use.

10. Moto Guzzi Norge GT 8V

The Moto Guzzi Norge GT 8V is a unique sport touring motorcycle that showcases Italian heritage and distinctive design. Powered by a 1,151cc V-twin engine, it delivers 95 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. The engine's characteristic transverse mounting and shaft drive add to the bike's unique character. The Norge GT 8V is designed for long-distance comfort, featuring a comfortable riding position, adjustable windscreen, and ample fairing protection. Integrated panniers provide practical storage for touring. Although it may not have the latest electronic rider aids found in newer models, it still offers essential features like ABS and adjustable suspension. The bike's classic styling and distinctive engine make it stand out from the crowd. The Moto Guzzi Norge GT 8V is a classic choice with Italian flair, appealing to riders who value heritage and character in their sport touring machine.

Alright, guys, that wraps up my list of the top 10 sport touring motorcycles! Each of these bikes offers a unique blend of performance, comfort, and features, so the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Happy riding, and I'll see you on the road!