Tracer 9GT is probably the best bang for buck on the market right now. And it's also coming stateside and selling for only 14k USD, which is nearly 4 grand cheaper than it's main competitor the Versys 1000 SE.
Yamaha fjr1300 hands down the best. More sport than touring. Fast as lightning, side and top cases, cruise control and center stand and heated grips and electric windshield.
***I've now uploaded a 2022 version of this video, you can find it in my bike review playlist*** It’s been interesting reading the comments on this video. There is quite obviously a big disparity in what people view as a ‘Sports Tourer’. In the UK particularly they seem to traditionally be seen as a ‘sports bike’ that is a bit more suited for longer journeys and have some form of luggage option. Pillions are surplus to requirements mostly, as if you want to take a passenger a ‘touring’ bike is a better pick. However our friends over the Pond seem to have a different take on the name? Oh and I’ve also upset a lot of FJR owners is seems by not including it. I left it out because its no longer available for sale in the UK in 2021. I know these videos get watched in other countries, but as I live in the UK, things like spec, colours, availability and sometimes model names are going to have a UK focus. I try not to pigeonhole bikes if I can because the motorcycle world seems tribal enough as it is, and some people seem to be easily triggered if you don’t like their particular bike or brand. As countless people have proven you can tour on any kind of motorcycle and the most important thing to do is just get out there and ride!
I think the main reason for the different views with us Yanks and Canucks is geography. North America is just so large and most of it is wide open space. We tend to cover vast distances and so value comfort and stability more. I can’t count all the 1500km days I’ve ridden.
Honda CBR1100XX Superblackbird stopped 2005/2006. Shame. I had the first one in '97 and it was a mile muncher and a LOT of fun. Honda build quality and as soon as I road the bike it fit like a glove...."Linked brakes!!! They were marmite but i loved playing around with them -one foot braking etc. With the new Hayabusa now out from Suzuki , maybe Honda will make a new one with 2022 bells and whistles?
@@Surfbird11 I think that the other part of the equation is that long trips across the USA are almost defined by long, straight roads. there really isn't much of an A road alternative (for those stateside, A roads are half way between an interstate and a backroad; fast, sweeping bends taking you through more scenic countryside). In the EU, most people think of Sports Tourers as the sort of bike that is comfortable(ish) for 8-10 hours in the saddle, that you can then take the panniers off and make a decent fist of scratching around the local fast roads. This also means that a sports tourer can be used to "take the long way home" from, say, Nice to Madrid, Hannover or wherever. i'd say that anything sporting pretensions is a straight tourer of some description. This is also part of the reason why the USA can't be classified as "The Greatest country on the planet"; There simply aren't enough great roads for riding a bike. That title would have to go to somewhere like France, Spain or Italy, and for just that reason
You mentioned the Tracer 700. Kawasaki has a Versys 650, although lacking updates it's still a great value. I also think Triumph needs a sport-ADV home for that new 1160cc triple.
Weight capacity is an issue for the Tracer 9. Yamaha says you can have the top box or the panniers on but all at the same time. Maybe dealerships should throw in a complimentary bathroom scale for potential pillions?
I'd check paint quality and I had constant issues with cruise control and temp gauge on my 2016 FJR that Yamaha could never get fixed. I'll never buy another Yamaha again.
@Csab so you’ve not ridden one then, but you ‘know’ ? 4000 revs most have flat spots due to emission regs, but If you only ride a triple or inline 4 at 4000 you shouldn’t be on a bike.
Tracer 9 GT bang for buck - it's the one. If I wasn't budget conscious The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT would be the one (skyhook technology, bluetooth, better display).
I was so excited for that bike. Was on a fjr1300 at the time and went to a test ride for the super sport. I was very disappointed. Didn’t feel well put together, and felt like it would beat up on longer rides. I’m sticking with a big sports tourer like the fjr for commuting and a 600 for fun rides I don’t think one bike can do both well
The Yamaha FJR1300 is still an amazing sport-touring bike! I understand that it's not included in this 2021 overview, but the only reason that it has been discontinued in the EU, is the Euro-5 regulations. You can probably still find good 2020 deals, though :D
Never have I been so happy that I have to commute 110 miles a day than I have during this pandemic...but ironically the bike I would (did) choose is one not even mentioned here, the mighty Kawasaki ZZR1400. Still a few new ones left out there, and available for as little as £10,500...
@Csab I am 5'10". I have already done 400 miles in a day with no issues and I am 57 with a dodgy back...but I admit the Gold Wing is more suited to the longest of journey's....
Pity that Kawasaki didn’t Euro 5 the zzz 14... a few updates like a tft and the engine would’ve have kept it in the lineup as Suzuki have done with the ‘busa... I took one out for a test ride( I’m 5’9” on a good day) and had no problems getting feet down, plus it’s an absolute pussy cat in town even with its size. I must admit I was a little apprehensive in riding it at first , it’s a shame that it’s been discontinued. I feel that the market is shifting from “traditional” sports tourers to a sort of hybrid sports adventure tourer... even the new H2sx type are proportionally smaller than a standard sports tourer if you consider the pillion spacing and position, not agreeable on a long romp, but overall it’s an exciting time for motorcycling, once we’re out of lockdown, new more innovative designs have to be encouraged and I think that the current leaders in the market obviously are heading down that path.... I also think that Honda and Suzuki have to step up their game and join in this design revolution..... more models more choice , which can only be a good thing for us !!! 👍👍😁🤔
@@brunanburh937AD Great post brunanburh. It's the same with cars, the small SUV has become 'the car' to have as is witnessed by the fact in the UK the Nissan Qashqai is the top seller. Fact is the 'sit up and beg' stance of many bikes is very appealing to what is essentially a market that is getting older and thus getting bad backs. I bought the ZZR 1400 as a last hurrah! before the inexorable arrival of my next bike which will most certainly be a sit-up style machine, possibly an FJR as I also like the shaft drive nil maintenance it offers. Won't be selling the big Zed though, she's a keeper.....
I had a 1987 Honda Hurricane 1000 (CBR) I commuted 100 miles daily, avg 48MPG . I finally sold the bike for $500, I had over 150K . replaced the Cam chain tensioner at 75K under extended warranty. and that was it. Best bike i ever owned ... many a long trips
The ones that would take my eye the most would be the S1000XR, F900XR and the Tracer 9, more than likely the Tracer 9 would be the one for me as it's the best of a useable engine on a sporty chassis and touring comfort. It's not gonna be as much as a gorgeous screamer as the S1000 would be nor would it be as friendly as the F900 would be, but I think the Tracer would suit me and my semi-aggressive but advanced style absolutely perfectly. Now if only I had the licence for it
If you emphasize sport several of these are quite good but if you really include touring the list drops to the BMW R1250RT and the Yamaha FJR1300. These 2 bikes absolutely dominate the Iron Butt Rally year after year. Averaging 1000+ miles per day on every possible type of road really shows what is reliable, fast and comfortable.
Yep and thats the point the two you mention would be viewed as tourers. Sports tourers have traditionally sat in that space between Sports bikes and Touring bikes, but the lines are getting blurred now as manufacturers seem to be moving more towards more upright machines, bringing in the sub category of Adventure Touring. The reality is of course that you can tour on any motorcycle :)
I hear you brothers and my two year KTM warranty expires this summer and I've hardly got any miles on the bike due to the movement restrictions. That said, some very tasty bikes on offer and thank you Tony👍👏😎
The "lockdown" is not going to end. We need to stop complying, and live your life like you did in 2018. This is not about a "virus" and the world governments taking extreme measures to prevent our sickness. Yeah, right.
Nice comparison Tony. Although I am a adventure fan if I was choosing one of these it would probably be the yahama 9.....looks a high spec, good power and as you highlight good value for money 👍
@MyMednas I have to disagree. SX is a lovely bike, but the tracer is not just a tourer, it’s excellent on the sports bike side. You should test ride one. More livelier and very light to chuck about. Better for country lanes. Remember it’s based on the lunatic MT09. Kawa feels heavier/stiffer on tighter corners, good on longer sweeping corners and very smooth. Tracer more upright with straighter leg position. So more fun at weekends and better position for touring took me the Tracer route. Pretty good mpg as well.
My thoughts: In this company, it's the 9 GT, the 1000SX, and don't count out the new Hayabusa, a bike that's been a well-accepted sports tourer (helibars and luggage, de rigueur) for decades. The 850 Sport could be, though, the real surprise. The Duc, MV and KTM really can't do the two-up thing all day, and I wouldn't take my chances in a long trip that's far away from a dealer. But...this has got to be the beginning of the moto golden age! Look at these options!!
Excellent roundup. But the Hayabusa is not only a performance bike. Put a superbike handlebar on it and you‘ll get an absurdly great touring bike and daily driver. With the low center of gravity it‘s extremely easy to handle even in stop&go traffic. Got mine four years ago and it‘s my daily driver in the city as well as my long touring bike to the Alps and Dolomites. To make handling even better you can raise the rear suspension for twenty millimeters. This improves the geometry even further. Only downside is that you won‘t drive 300km/h anymore (you can but you won’t) because after 250km/h your handlebar/arms will cause some turbulence and that‘s not for everyone. But if you are a touring guy like me you can easily ride for 12 hours a day and more if you need to make kilometres and simply enjoy every second. And the best thing is, you don‘t need the newest model. Since 2013 you get ABS and that‘s all what I would be looking for and saves you a lot of money.
The BMW R1250GS may not have a sporty look but is an amazing sport touring bike handling is amazing brakes are amazing plenty of power to pull you out of the corner and the look on people’s faces after you pass them and leave them is priceless 🥂
Great summary review on what's on offer this year. Both the video and narration is spot on. For me the heart says Ninja 1000sx but the head says Tracer 9 GT, mainly because this year's Yam allows for an additional Top Box for commuting/touring expandability whereas the Kwak does not. The F900XR TE is right there in the mix though
I does seem that “adventure” bikes are supplanting the sport touring bikes in many manufacturers lineups. The sport touring bikes that seem to still be selling well are the ones with the more “upright” riding position.....much like the the adventure bikes 😉.
Ducati's have always been the looker. That's where the competition gets their ideas from and has been for many years. Of course I'm partial to them anyway, as I ride them as well.
I own the tourismo veloce Rc number 72 of 200 in the world. He doesn't even mention the smart clutch system which makes it the most technological advanced bike on the list plus the best looking IMHO. I bought mine for $18,900 with gapr coverage and a 6 year warranty and I couldn't be happier!
In trying to keep the video a decent length I didn’t have am time to start going into detail around the scs. But it’s a clever system based around the Rekluse design.
VFR, call me suck in the mud but I just can't help like a more analogue approach in a world full of smart tech. Some lovely bikes to chew over here, thanks.
I just bought a new 2020 Yamaha Tracer 900GT and it is a great bike for the Sport Touring style of riding. The 2021 models are hard to come by here in the US and would have liked the larger displacement engine. Great review of the ST models. Thanks.
First congrats on your new bike. I just looked at the Tracer 9 GT online. The U.S. web sites indicates it will not be available until April. I came close to buying a FJ09 back in 2018. I chose a leftover 2017 V-Strom 650 at $5995.00 and have been very happy with my choice. If the Tracer 900 GT had been available then I might have made a different choice.
Currently own a 2016 tracer 900, FJ-09 here in the states, and I'm getting that trade-in itch. If money was no option the multistrada v4s would be in my garage, however I keep gravitating to the ninja 1000sx. It seems like such good value for money, however insurance is through the roof. Hidden cost for what appears to be a very good value. Insurance companies see ninja and immediately think your buying a supersport.
Thanks,awesome review.I would have to choose the old tried and tested Honda vfr 800,most of my touring is with a pillion,the missus has to be comfortable 😀.
@@VikasSharma-ip2kp What shame as it's not distributed in my SEA country also. Yamaha is missing out on so much sales when they only sale it in only a few countries.
I would not say, that bikes like Honda AT, can be named Sportstourer, maybe crossover or adventure bikes. Are you searching because super sport riding position becomes more and more uncomfortable, but you will not completely loose sporty riding feeling? Do you want as well a really good weight between performance, comfort, features and cost? I did a couple of test drives for a new bike with that priorities in 2019. As well crossover bikes. In 2020 I finally bought a Ninja1000SX as best compromise. After around 8000km, I'm sure, this decision was completely right for me. I still love that bike, because it is two bikes in one. Step gear down, rise rpm above 6000 and burn the road. Put panniers on, step into 6th gear and chill the road. Down to 2000revs without any complaint from the motor.
A Tigersport 1200 would be amazing...I would put a deposit on one straight away! even the outgoing 1050 engine from the last of the speed triples with all the latest tech would be nice. I love my Tigersport 1050 and am reluctant to part with it but is is getting a bit out dated. This is a great video and I think I can feel some test rides coming on!! 😁
Have to agree, Yamaha are getting it right in this market and at that price point they can't be ignored. Having come from 10 years on an R1 I have been very pleasantly surprised by the MT-09 Tracer, this GT 9 looks like topping that by some margin. Of course , mandatory removal of all things EU5 limited will be needed to turn the beauty into a real beast :-)
I looked at most of them and test rode a fair few as well but put my cash down on a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx performance tourer, best bike I've ridden in many a year, Kawasaki have made a peach of a bike.
I'd like Triumph to make the Speed Triple a little less "naked" with some half fairing options, and luggage too. I'd still want to keep the reasonably upright seating position. Sportsbike position "does me in" !!
I’m over European bikes and their prices...it has now gotten old. My top 2 are the Ninja 1000 SX & Tracer 9 GT. I’m seriously thinking of switching to one of these from my bike. Great video!
@@mancavemoto yea...When I compare the ninja 1000 Sx to a SDGT/1250RS it’s just not enough diff to make me want to spend THOUSANDS more if I’m honest? The Ninja has and does everything I need and feels VERY premium.
great video! although I came here for the Tracer i was surprised by the variety of sports tourers. Usually I am more focused on the supersports but i am more and more looking for a sports tourer with nice luggage options. However seeing that beautiful Ducati with those side cases made me considering it to buy someday :D .... and seeing all those bikes made me think, why not rent some and spend a whole day to compare
From how it looks in person and what people are doing with it, I would say you could squeeze the new Indian FTR 1200 Carbon into this list. at 120HP and 87TQ, with rack and bag options that are available.
Great review and enjoyable to watch, but for me you might be stretching the sport tourer category a bit far on some of these? I’d narrow it down to the Suzuki, Yamaha, BMW, Honda and Kawasaki. But that’s if you want all day comfortable touring for days on end with some reasonable storage space. However, if you’re happy to sacrifice all day comfort and take no more than just a pair of pants and a tooth brush for spirited fun! The others are right there which is why I presume you added them in.
Yes what I would view as a traditional sports tourer are getting a bit thin on the ground. Theres a definite move towards a more upright 'adventure' style bike from many manufacturers
Speed triple with luggage and fairing would be more like the old Triumph Sprint ST and GT that they should really bring back! I ride a 2005 Sprint ST (its on my channel) and I love it. Would love to see an updated version
Unfortunately I just totalled my Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Did around 7000 Kms on it and toured for 4 days in Sicily. Mixed feelings as I am looking for a replacement now. The Tiger is an awesome bike and ticks many, many boxes. However there are some niggles too. The engine is amazing however is quite vibey. It didn't bother me when I was on my trip however it did when at 3 to 5 k revs, and this is a range one is in a lot. So i found I had numb hands quite frequently. I read the reviews, tried to ignore them but the proof of the pudding is in the eating. The Vibes are there whatever anyone says. It's whether one admits to them or not. The Auxiliary plug just under the dash is in an awkward place so not much space to manoeuvre and the steering cables etc come into contact with the auxiliary plug at full lock. The ignition is also in an uncomfortable place if one has a tank bag. I found that I had to sometimes take the tank bag off just to switch off the bike with the key. And I had a very small tank bag, because of this. The dash is great, at least I think it is, however the connectivity IS A PAIN... enough said. The under seat mobile phone space is... a waste of space and minute...so only good for certain sized phones.. Small niggles I know and not a deal breaker... So I was considering replacing it with another... Until I saw the Tracer 9..... Which ticks slightly more boxes. So that will be the bike i replace the Tiger with.
For me the choice is one and simple Ninja 1000SX. I think it's more of a sports bike with comfortable riding position. Unfortunately I have to wait til next year to get mine. But it was nice to see what other manufacturers have to offer.
@@mancavemoto forward my vote 🤪 I’ve got the 2019 XR triple black. So I reckon on the M sport colour 2021 Xr ( but still am interested in the new KTM 1290 S ) 🤣
Great video! I want to buy a new bike but my touring FZ1 still seems to tick all the boxes. I want top box and panniers as standard! My FZ1 has 120 litres of storage with 150bhp. i wish there was a good value new bike that could match that (without spending a fortune)
@@luvsallbikes279 such a great bike. The MT10 is still not enough of an upgrade to justify the price imo. Im holding on to the FZ1 until the foreseeable future!
@@albionjames1 I put cheap bar risers on it and have a Sargent World Sport Performance seat I never put on , I have a few bikes and put the FZ1 on a website for possible sale and it has the most hits out of any listing , having 2nd thoughts .
Hi Tony good review as usual. Having a GSA (Love it) which I wouldn’t have expected to see in your review I would go for the Kawasaki. Good engine, luggage and comfy just what you need if your getting away. The Yamaha would be my second choice, good value for money. Years ago I had a 900 Diversion went to South of France on it 👍 brilliant engine. Good stuff Tony 👍
Its more of a 'Touring bike' than a sports tourer, and I guess the same could be said of the Yamaha's. But that was part of the point of the video showing that what we in the UK would class as a sports tourer is disappearing and beign replaced with more upright machines.
I’m very happy with my R1250RS. No bike is perfect but this is the best option for my old bones. Expensive bike to buy and maintain. Put bar risers on it and a tall AeroFlow screen and I’m good to go.
Try a Tracer. Upright and very light. Extremely reliable and cheap to run comparatively. Your right, no bike is perfect, but once your on a light bike, it’s hard to go back. Have fun whatever you ride !
Great info and well done! I just demo'd the Ninja 1000SX. I love it! Total bang for buck and that inline 4 is so smooth with so much roll on torque in every gear at nearly any rpm! On my short list for my next bike. Sub'd. 👍🏼
It's a great bike, you won't be disappointed. I've ridden the 9 GT and have had 3 TDMs in the past (which destroyed gixxers of the time) but still delighted with the Z1000sx.
Not sure why the BMW K1600 GT, Concours 14, and FJR are being ignored...yet again. I'm on my second Concours 14 and still have not found a better sport-tourer. The BMW is huge... the FJR doesn't have the same motor or aggressive looks at the Concours, but still checks all the boxes for a good Sport Tourer. It seems the new trend by all the companies is to raise the handlebars on their sport bikes, and throw on some side bags and they call it a tourer...but when you look at the seats, for example, I don't see 500-mile+ days on many of the bikes reviewed here. Protection from the elements is a big deal, as is electronic-adjustable wind-screen for touring.
Well, I couldn't include 'all' bikes and I capped it at two per brand. Nothing wrong with those bikes, but both the Concours 14 (1400 GTR) and FJR are not available to buy in the UK in 2021, hence not on the list. I see quite a few bikes on the list capable of 500+ miles a day. But the trend is towards a more upright 'adventure Tourer' for a lot of manufacturers.
Honda's VFR800 may be getting long in the tooth, but that MOTOR (without all the gee-gaws that modern releases have) for 10 Gorillas is exceptional. I like the Tracer 9's seating position. I'd be most happy with a Tracer 7 with a full power 689cc motor (ala Tenere 700 or MT07HO), not the strangled 655cc learner legal motor. Best mid capacity sport tourer for poor Australian roads is Suzuki's V-Strom 650. They sell loads of them here (as a proportion of overall sales)
Thanks for the upload; very interesting. PS: The VFR800 has a Euro 4 compliant engine; and so it’s only available while stocks last (as with the Crossrunner + the 1200 Crosstourer).
My buddy had the MV. He found it to be too buzzy. It needs to be flogged in order to make power and he grew tired of it quickly. He bought a Multistrada to replace it
A curious mix of bikes. The MV Veloce is included, but not the Ducati Multistrada or the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally GT? Just demonstrates how the lines between Sport Touring and Adventure are blurring. Personally for me, the value for money pick is the Kwaka 1000.
Indeed it seems the traditional looking sports tourer is disappearing and moving into a more upright style. I included the Multistrada in my Adventure bike video and i'd put the Tiger 900 GT in the Adventure segment. I had to draw the line somewhere or the video would be two hours long!
Last June I bought a Kim 1090 adventure, a 2018 bike with 750 miles for £8300 from local Honda dealer and it’s a great bike with bags of power and great comfort!! I wonder are the traditional sports tourers dying out🤔
Nice, yes I think they are which Is why I thought I'd explore that with this video. Theres definitely a move towards more upright 'Adventure Tourers' from a lot of manufacturers.
For value for money, brilliant spec, unquestionable reliability in a bike that looks good, doesn't have the stupid "one eye" look headlights of the Yamaha, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX just looks so good. Also bear in mind that a 2020 new model with zero miles could be had for £9999. A winner in my book.
Both great bikes, but as with other suggestions you could argue they are not ‘sports tourers’, but then that argument could be put against someone this list. That’s kind of the point I was making, what we in the UK would class as a sports tourer is becoming less popular.
The Tracer has always been the only one in this segment that has interested me. Having done a 2000 mile weekend on an R3 (among other long ass rides), i honestly don't consider any of the other bikes touring capable because of the "Sporty" riding position. My 2015 R3 was somewhat upright, yet still painful after a couple hundred miles. And i disagree a bit on the looks. The tracer 900 was way better looking than the new tracer 9. Those tiny little lights on top of that big chunky body, just make it awkward and disproportionate looking
To be honest, I'd put it you that the Ninja 1000SX, the Ninja H2SX, the BMW 1250 and I suppose that the Ducati can fit into here as the only sport tourers in this list of bikes. The rest, with their longer suspension I'd call adventure tourers. Okay, that doesn't include the VFR but that's not in production anymore. (I had a '04 VFR for 160,000km and it was excellent). And, I'm going to be totally obviously biased and say I will replace my 2012 Ninja Z1000SX with a 2021 Ninja 1000SX as soon as I have the cash.... The bike has been an excellent replacement to the VFR.
Exactly the point I was trying to make, what would have ‘traditionally’ been seen as a sports tourer is disappearing as a lot of manufacturers seem to be moving towards the more upright biased designs.
im just about to do a euro trip on an mt09 with luggage. but im tempted to swap it out for the new tenere world raid with its dual petrol tanks it could be a game changer. the mt will eat fuel because i cant ride it without hitting the throttle haha.
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT just raised the bar of what people will demand from a sport tourer in 2021! 🔥🔥🔥
if they just had adapted the tracer 7 looks. i really dont like the looks of the new 900, the new 700 looks much sharper
Agreed
Price per performance and features - it's at the top of my sports touring list.
@@janstein6242 but they designed the 9 for better touring. You can see more wind protection overall, especially for the legs
@@janstein6242 I bought the 9gt but think the 700 is the better looking bike tbf 🙆♂️
Tracer 9GT is probably the best bang for buck on the market right now. And it's also coming stateside and selling for only 14k USD, which is nearly 4 grand cheaper than it's main competitor the Versys 1000 SE.
I think Yamaha and Honda nailed it again in terms of pricing
Kawasaki versys 1000 is a great bike. Half the price of the v4 multi strada
Yeah I was hoping to see the versys….. didn’t show up 🤷♂️
Half the price and a fraction of the bike
He’s talking about sports tourers, not adv.
Was tempted by the Versys but weight was an issue for me , plumped for the Tracer 9gt, so far so good 🤞
Yamaha fjr1300 hands down the best. More sport than touring. Fast as lightning, side and top cases, cruise control and center stand and heated grips and electric windshield.
Yeh thanks buddy you are 100% RIGHT
Agree, but I didn’t include it as it’s not available for 2021 in the UK
***I've now uploaded a 2022 version of this video, you can find it in my bike review playlist***
It’s been interesting reading the comments on this video. There is quite obviously a big disparity in what people view as a ‘Sports Tourer’. In the UK particularly they seem to traditionally be seen as a ‘sports bike’ that is a bit more suited for longer journeys and have some form of luggage option. Pillions are surplus to requirements mostly, as if you want to take a passenger a ‘touring’ bike is a better pick. However our friends over the Pond seem to have a different take on the name? Oh and I’ve also upset a lot of FJR owners is seems by not including it. I left it out because its no longer available for sale in the UK in 2021. I know these videos get watched in other countries, but as I live in the UK, things like spec, colours, availability and sometimes model names are going to have a UK focus. I try not to pigeonhole bikes if I can because the motorcycle world seems tribal enough as it is, and some people seem to be easily triggered if you don’t like their particular bike or brand. As countless people have proven you can tour on any kind of motorcycle and the most important thing to do is just get out there and ride!
I think the main reason for the different views with us Yanks and Canucks is geography. North America is just so large and most of it is wide open space. We tend to cover vast distances and so value comfort and stability more. I can’t count all the 1500km days I’ve ridden.
@@Surfbird11 yes that’s a very good point
Honda CBR1100XX Superblackbird stopped 2005/2006. Shame. I had the first one in '97 and it was a mile muncher and a LOT of fun. Honda build quality and as soon as I road the bike it fit like a glove...."Linked brakes!!! They were marmite but i loved playing around with them -one foot braking etc.
With the new Hayabusa now out from Suzuki , maybe Honda will make a new one with 2022 bells and whistles?
@@landedzentry Get a VFR 1200F
Bascially all the goods of the Blackbird but a bit more modern
Also honda V4!
@@Surfbird11 I think that the other part of the equation is that long trips across the USA are almost defined by long, straight roads. there really isn't much of an A road alternative (for those stateside, A roads are half way between an interstate and a backroad; fast, sweeping bends taking you through more scenic countryside).
In the EU, most people think of Sports Tourers as the sort of bike that is comfortable(ish) for 8-10 hours in the saddle, that you can then take the panniers off and make a decent fist of scratching around the local fast roads. This also means that a sports tourer can be used to "take the long way home" from, say, Nice to Madrid, Hannover or wherever. i'd say that anything sporting pretensions is a straight tourer of some description.
This is also part of the reason why the USA can't be classified as "The Greatest country on the planet"; There simply aren't enough great roads for riding a bike. That title would have to go to somewhere like France, Spain or Italy, and for just that reason
You mentioned the Tracer 700.
Kawasaki has a Versys 650, although lacking updates it's still a great value.
I also think Triumph needs a sport-ADV home for that new 1160cc triple.
Ninja 1000SX seems to be the most practical one to me although I cannot help loving all of them!!! 🥰😍😘❤️
I totally agree!
i have the z1000sx Great bike
Love that Yamaha Tracer 9 GT. Ticks all the boxes and its backed by Japanese reliability.
Weight capacity is an issue for the Tracer 9. Yamaha says you can have the top box or the panniers on but all at the same time. Maybe dealerships should throw in a complimentary bathroom scale for potential pillions?
I'd check paint quality and I had constant issues with cruise control and temp gauge on my 2016 FJR that Yamaha could never get fixed. I'll never buy another Yamaha again.
@@justjeff4173 That is a legal issue to protect them, the bike can carry all 3 sure enough. Yamaha just wont say it, it is just to cover their ass.
@@TheLolgonewrong exactly. Also, the rear shock isn’t the stiffest for huge weight. Upgrade shock and your laughing.
@Csab so you’ve not ridden one then, but you ‘know’ ? 4000 revs most have flat spots due to emission regs, but If you only ride a triple or inline 4 at 4000 you shouldn’t be on a bike.
Tracer 9 GT bang for buck - it's the one. If I wasn't budget conscious The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT would be the one (skyhook technology, bluetooth, better display).
Very comprehensive review - well done for including the too often overlooked MV Turismo Veloce which is a blindingly good bike.
Thanks, yep I had a look around one at a dealer and it’s a nicely put together machine
The Stradale should make a come back
I am not a Ducati fan boy, but, man, that SuperSport 950 is a real beauty! Look at those lines! Italians just know how to design things...
It is a beautiful thing
I was so excited for that bike. Was on a fjr1300 at the time and went to a test ride for the super sport. I was very disappointed. Didn’t feel well put together, and felt like it would beat up on longer rides. I’m sticking with a big sports tourer like the fjr for commuting and a 600 for fun rides I don’t think one bike can do both well
@@anomicanomic3217 well, I guess that’s why we all ideally have more than one bike…lol..😁😁😁
The Yamaha FJR1300 is still an amazing sport-touring bike! I understand that it's not included in this 2021 overview, but the only reason that it has been discontinued in the EU, is the Euro-5 regulations. You can probably still find good 2020 deals, though :D
Yep thats the only reason it was left out
Never have I been so happy that I have to commute 110 miles a day than I have during this pandemic...but ironically the bike I would (did) choose is one not even mentioned here, the mighty Kawasaki ZZR1400. Still a few new ones left out there, and available for as little as £10,500...
@Csab I am 5'10". I have already done 400 miles in a day with no issues and I am 57 with a dodgy back...but I admit the Gold Wing is more suited to the longest of journey's....
Pity that Kawasaki didn’t Euro 5 the zzz 14... a few updates like a tft and the engine would’ve have kept it in the lineup as Suzuki have done with the ‘busa... I took one out for a test ride( I’m 5’9” on a good day) and had no problems getting feet down, plus it’s an absolute pussy cat in town even with its size. I must admit I was a little apprehensive in riding it at first , it’s a shame that it’s been discontinued. I feel that the market is shifting from “traditional” sports tourers to a sort of hybrid sports adventure tourer... even the new H2sx type are proportionally smaller than a standard sports tourer if you consider the pillion spacing and position, not agreeable on a long romp, but overall it’s an exciting time for motorcycling, once we’re out of lockdown, new more innovative designs have to be encouraged and I think that the current leaders in the market obviously are heading down that path.... I also think that Honda and Suzuki have to step up their game and join in this design revolution..... more models more choice , which can only be a good thing for us !!! 👍👍😁🤔
@@brunanburh937AD Great post brunanburh. It's the same with cars, the small SUV has become 'the car' to have as is witnessed by the fact in the UK the Nissan Qashqai is the top seller. Fact is the 'sit up and beg' stance of many bikes is very appealing to what is essentially a market that is getting older and thus getting bad backs. I bought the ZZR 1400 as a last hurrah! before the inexorable arrival of my next bike which will most certainly be a sit-up style machine, possibly an FJR as I also like the shaft drive nil maintenance it offers. Won't be selling the big Zed though, she's a keeper.....
It’s one of only a couple of bikes that the missus likes as well, which believe me is a blessing lol...
I had a 1987 Honda Hurricane 1000 (CBR) I commuted 100 miles daily, avg 48MPG . I finally sold the bike for $500, I had over 150K . replaced the Cam chain tensioner at 75K under extended warranty. and that was it. Best bike i ever owned ... many a long trips
The ones that would take my eye the most would be the S1000XR, F900XR and the Tracer 9, more than likely the Tracer 9 would be the one for me as it's the best of a useable engine on a sporty chassis and touring comfort. It's not gonna be as much as a gorgeous screamer as the S1000 would be nor would it be as friendly as the F900 would be, but I think the Tracer would suit me and my semi-aggressive but advanced style absolutely perfectly. Now if only I had the licence for it
If you emphasize sport several of these are quite good but if you really include touring the list drops to the BMW R1250RT and the Yamaha FJR1300. These 2 bikes absolutely dominate the Iron Butt Rally year after year. Averaging 1000+ miles per day on every possible type of road really shows what is reliable, fast and comfortable.
Yep and thats the point the two you mention would be viewed as tourers. Sports tourers have traditionally sat in that space between Sports bikes and Touring bikes, but the lines are getting blurred now as manufacturers seem to be moving more towards more upright machines, bringing in the sub category of Adventure Touring. The reality is of course that you can tour on any motorcycle :)
Thanks for that very interesting and mouthwatering review. The sooner I can get back in the saddle again after this lockdown the better!
You and me too. Glad you liked it
I hear you brothers and my two year KTM warranty expires this summer and I've hardly got any miles on the bike due to the movement restrictions. That said, some very tasty bikes on offer and thank you Tony👍👏😎
The "lockdown" is not going to end. We need to stop complying, and live your life like you did in 2018. This is not about a "virus" and the world governments taking extreme measures to prevent our sickness. Yeah, right.
@@rterrelljones *yawn*
Nice comparison Tony. Although I am a adventure fan if I was choosing one of these it would probably be the yahama 9.....looks a high spec, good power and as you highlight good value for money 👍
Thanks, yep I’m the same but I quite like the Tracer too.
Good roundup. Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX is the obvious sports tourer.
If I had room in the garage for a tourer though, it would probably be a Tracer 900.
@MyMednas I have to disagree. SX is a lovely bike, but the tracer is not just a tourer, it’s excellent on the sports bike side. You should test ride one. More livelier and very light to chuck about. Better for country lanes. Remember it’s based on the lunatic MT09. Kawa feels heavier/stiffer on tighter corners, good on longer sweeping corners and very smooth. Tracer more upright with straighter leg position. So more fun at weekends and better position for touring took me the Tracer route. Pretty good mpg as well.
My thoughts: In this company, it's the 9 GT, the 1000SX, and don't count out the new Hayabusa, a bike that's been a well-accepted sports tourer (helibars and luggage, de rigueur) for decades. The 850 Sport could be, though, the real surprise. The Duc, MV and KTM really can't do the two-up thing all day, and I wouldn't take my chances in a long trip that's far away from a dealer. But...this has got to be the beginning of the moto golden age! Look at these options!!
Yes John, we are lucky to have such a huge range of bikes to choose from. It almost impossible to buy a bad bike these days
How did you possibly miss out the FJR1300 and Kwakasaki GTR 1400 ?
Totally agree on Triumph 1050 Sport with Speed 3 motor! With hard luggage of course, std or option electronic suspension. I'm in!
Yep, I think Triumph could do well with it.
Excellent roundup. But the Hayabusa is not only a performance bike. Put a superbike handlebar on it and you‘ll get an absurdly great touring bike and daily driver. With the low center of gravity it‘s extremely easy to handle even in stop&go traffic. Got mine four years ago and it‘s my daily driver in the city as well as my long touring bike to the Alps and Dolomites. To make handling even better you can raise the rear suspension for twenty millimeters. This improves the geometry even further. Only downside is that you won‘t drive 300km/h anymore (you can but you won’t) because after 250km/h your handlebar/arms will cause some turbulence and that‘s not for everyone. But if you are a touring guy like me you can easily ride for 12 hours a day and more if you need to make kilometres and simply enjoy every second. And the best thing is, you don‘t need the newest model. Since 2013 you get ABS and that‘s all what I would be looking for and saves you a lot of money.
Great review but i,ll stick to HD.
The BMW R1250GS may not have a sporty look but is an amazing sport touring bike handling is amazing brakes are amazing plenty of power to pull you out of the corner and the look on people’s faces after you pass them and leave them is priceless 🥂
Great summary review on what's on offer this year. Both the video and narration is spot on. For me the heart says Ninja 1000sx but the head says Tracer 9 GT, mainly because this year's Yam allows for an additional Top Box for commuting/touring expandability whereas the Kwak does not. The F900XR TE is right there in the mix though
Thanks Adam, much appreciated
I does seem that “adventure” bikes are supplanting the sport touring bikes in many manufacturers lineups. The sport touring bikes that seem to still be selling well are the ones with the more “upright” riding position.....much like the the adventure bikes 😉.
Yep it’s definitely the direction they seem to be going in.
Upright bikes used to be boring bikes. Not now, so best of both worlds, touring and way more sporty.
The Kawasaki Versys 1000 Lt+ is amazing - list is very incomplete and doesn't consist of the best in class.
It’s not meant to be an exhaustive list
The Ducati is a dream to ride , and hands down the looker ...love my 950 S
Ducati's have always been the looker. That's where the competition gets their ideas from and has been for many years. Of course I'm partial to them anyway, as I ride them as well.
I am thinking of getting a ducati - has yours been reliable?
@@edombre4637 Absolutely !
I own the tourismo veloce Rc number 72 of 200 in the world. He doesn't even mention the smart clutch system which makes it the most technological advanced bike on the list plus the best looking IMHO. I bought mine for $18,900 with gapr coverage and a 6 year warranty and I couldn't be happier!
In trying to keep the video a decent length I didn’t have am time to start going into detail around the scs. But it’s a clever system based around the Rekluse design.
VFR, call me suck in the mud but I just can't help like a more analogue approach in a world full of smart tech. Some lovely bikes to chew over here, thanks.
The VFR is still hard to beat…
I just bought a new 2020 Yamaha Tracer 900GT and it is a great bike for the Sport Touring style of riding. The 2021 models are hard to come by here in the US and would have liked the larger displacement engine. Great review of the ST models. Thanks.
First congrats on your new bike. I just looked at the Tracer 9 GT online. The U.S. web sites indicates it will not be available until April. I came close to buying a FJ09 back in 2018. I chose a leftover 2017 V-Strom 650 at $5995.00 and have been very happy with my choice. If the Tracer 900 GT had been available then I might have made a different choice.
Thanks Eric
Currently own a 2016 tracer 900, FJ-09 here in the states, and I'm getting that trade-in itch. If money was no option the multistrada v4s would be in my garage, however I keep gravitating to the ninja 1000sx. It seems like such good value for money, however insurance is through the roof. Hidden cost for what appears to be a very good value. Insurance companies see ninja and immediately think your buying a supersport.
Thats a good point Jay
Honda needs to bring back the Pan-European, it can still better all these bikes as a reliable comfortable sports tourer & with 50+mpg!
Thanks,awesome review.I would have to choose the old tried and tested Honda vfr 800,most of my touring is with a pillion,the missus has to be comfortable 😀.
Many VFR refugees have fled to the Ninja 1000 and kicked themselves for not doing it years earlier.
The Yamaha Tracer 700 is my pick, it does everything well enough without asking for too much money.
Yep, can’t go wrong with that choice!
Definitely the best bang for the buck
Can't get it here in US
@@VikasSharma-ip2kp What shame as it's not distributed in my SEA country also. Yamaha is missing out on so much sales when they only sale it in only a few countries.
Got to be honest I'd be happy with any of those, 1290GT,H2SX,V4S and the MV would be my top 4
Yep I’d take pretty much any of them too. The Tracer makes a lot of sense, the Ducati is just gorgeous and the H2 is mental!
I would not say, that bikes like Honda AT, can be named Sportstourer, maybe crossover or adventure bikes.
Are you searching because super sport riding position becomes more and more uncomfortable, but you will not completely loose sporty riding feeling? Do you want as well a really good weight between performance, comfort, features and cost? I did a couple of test drives for a new bike with that priorities in 2019. As well crossover bikes. In 2020 I finally bought a Ninja1000SX as best compromise. After around 8000km, I'm sure, this decision was completely right for me. I still love that bike, because it is two bikes in one. Step gear down, rise rpm above 6000 and burn the road. Put panniers on, step into 6th gear and chill the road. Down to 2000revs without any complaint from the motor.
I didn’t call them sports tourers, they are far from it
A Tigersport 1200 would be amazing...I would put a deposit on one straight away! even the outgoing 1050 engine from the last of the speed triples with all the latest tech would be nice. I love my Tigersport 1050 and am reluctant to part with it but is is getting a bit out dated. This is a great video and I think I can feel some test rides coming on!! 😁
I'm really debating selling my 2019 MT-10 for the Tracer 9GT. I'd love to extend my riding season and get some creature comforts.
Sounds like a good idea
I don't think I have ever agreed with a review 100% but I think you are spot on with the Yamaha Tracer 900GT
Thanks
Have to agree, Yamaha are getting it right in this market and at that price point they can't be ignored. Having come from 10 years on an R1 I have been very pleasantly surprised by the MT-09 Tracer, this GT 9 looks like topping that by some margin. Of course , mandatory removal of all things EU5 limited will be needed to turn the beauty into a real beast :-)
Thanks for sharing
Damn.. Tough question. My heart would go Ducati, my curiosity with Agusta, my cool with Triumph, my sensible head says Honda.
...and my wallet said Kawasaki ZZR1400 at £10,500 brand new.....
And no-one says BM. Throw your wallet down a drain, same as owning a Ducati. I’m with your comments though. Yams as good as Honda now.
Triumph Tiger 1200 - 140 hp, 90 something torques. I bought mine as a sport tourer, with a some off-road if needed.
Yep a great bike, but firmly in the Adventure category for me.
Currently trying to choose between the BMW F900 XR and Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro
The BMW F900 XR hands down.
did you get anything yet? I'm deciding between the F900 XR and the Tracer 9 GT.
I looked at most of them and test rode a fair few as well but put my cash down on a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx performance tourer, best bike I've ridden in many a year, Kawasaki have made a peach of a bike.
I'd like Triumph to make the Speed Triple a little less "naked" with some half fairing options, and luggage too. I'd still want to keep the reasonably upright seating position. Sportsbike position "does me in" !!
I’m over European bikes and their prices...it has now gotten old.
My top 2 are the Ninja 1000 SX & Tracer 9 GT. I’m seriously thinking of switching to one of these from my bike.
Great video!
Thanks Joel, yep some of those are, to use a local phrase ‘a bit lumpy’ when it comes to the price
@@mancavemoto yea...When I compare the ninja 1000 Sx to a SDGT/1250RS it’s just not enough diff to make me want to spend THOUSANDS more if I’m honest? The Ninja has and does everything I need and feels VERY premium.
Thanks - a good selection there. Ducati definitely the nicest looking.
Thanks and yes it’s lovely isnt it
great video! although I came here for the Tracer i was surprised by the variety of sports tourers. Usually I am more focused on the supersports but i am more and more looking for a sports tourer with nice luggage options. However seeing that beautiful Ducati with those side cases made me considering it to buy someday :D .... and seeing all those bikes made me think, why not rent some and spend a whole day to compare
Glad you enjoyed!
From how it looks in person and what people are doing with it, I would say you could squeeze the new Indian FTR 1200 Carbon into this list. at 120HP and 87TQ, with rack and bag options that are available.
Great review and such simple but useful insights --nice work & deserves lots more likes .
Thanks
I agree with your thoughts on a 1050 Tiger replacement. The 1200 RS engine would be very tempting 😜
Yes, please! That would be a great, fun bike
Great review and enjoyable to watch, but for me you might be stretching the sport tourer category a bit far on some of these? I’d narrow it down to the Suzuki, Yamaha, BMW, Honda and Kawasaki. But that’s if you want all day comfortable touring for days on end with some reasonable storage space. However, if you’re happy to sacrifice all day comfort and take no more than just a pair of pants and a tooth brush for spirited fun! The others are right there which is why I presume you added them in.
Yes what I would view as a traditional sports tourer are getting a bit thin on the ground. Theres a definite move towards a more upright 'adventure' style bike from many manufacturers
Speed triple with luggage and fairing would be more like the old Triumph Sprint ST and GT that they should really bring back! I ride a 2005 Sprint ST (its on my channel) and I love it. Would love to see an updated version
a brand new Sprint would be an amazing bike
Agree on the ST 1050. I ride the '08.
Unfortunately I just totalled my Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Did around 7000 Kms on it and toured for 4 days in Sicily. Mixed feelings as I am looking for a replacement now. The Tiger is an awesome bike and ticks many, many boxes. However there are some niggles too. The engine is amazing however is quite vibey. It didn't bother me when I was on my trip however it did when at 3 to 5 k revs, and this is a range one is in a lot. So i found I had numb hands quite frequently. I read the reviews, tried to ignore them but the proof of the pudding is in the eating. The Vibes are there whatever anyone says. It's whether one admits to them or not. The Auxiliary plug just under the dash is in an awkward place so not much space to manoeuvre and the steering cables etc come into contact with the auxiliary plug at full lock. The ignition is also in an uncomfortable place if one has a tank bag. I found that I had to sometimes take the tank bag off just to switch off the bike with the key. And I had a very small tank bag, because of this. The dash is great, at least I think it is, however the connectivity IS A PAIN... enough said. The under seat mobile phone space is... a waste of space and minute...so only good for certain sized phones.. Small niggles I know and not a deal breaker... So I was considering replacing it with another... Until I saw the Tracer 9..... Which ticks slightly more boxes. So that will be the bike i replace the Tiger with.
The new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT looks very promising.
It does indeed! Maybe I should relook at 2022 models?
Ninja 1000 SX HANDS DOWN…best compromise on all feature you would want and bullet-proof
The BMW RS is shaft drive. No or little maintenance. Better for touring
Being a delivery rider keyless ignition would be amazing.
They come with everthing you need incl battery packs and charging cable
if tracer 700 where is versys 650 then with grand tourer specs is well priced machine
For me the choice is one and simple Ninja 1000SX. I think it's more of a sports bike with comfortable riding position.
Unfortunately I have to wait til next year to get mine. But it was nice to see what other manufacturers have to offer.
A splendid choice
Great video just shows the wealth of choices out there thanks for making it 👍👍
Thanks, yep loads of great bikes to choose from
@@mancavemoto forward my vote 🤪 I’ve got the 2019 XR triple black. So I reckon on the M sport colour 2021 Xr ( but still am interested in the new KTM 1290 S ) 🤣
I've just watched this again, Tony. I'd have the Tracer 900 at the end. Not that I'll be getting one.
Great video! I want to buy a new bike but my touring FZ1 still seems to tick all the boxes. I want top box and panniers as standard! My FZ1 has 120 litres of storage with 150bhp. i wish there was a good value new bike that could match that (without spending a fortune)
I have an 09 FZ1 and I have to say one of my favorites.
@@luvsallbikes279 such a great bike. The MT10 is still not enough of an upgrade to justify the price imo. Im holding on to the FZ1 until the foreseeable future!
@@albionjames1 I put cheap bar risers on it and have a Sargent World Sport Performance seat I never put on , I have a few bikes and put the FZ1 on a website for possible sale and it has the most hits out of any listing , having 2nd thoughts .
Versys 1000! I don't know why people forget about this on sport-touring lists on RUclips... I'm about to upgrade my Versys 650
I didn't forget it, but already having included two Kawasaki's that I thought fitted the bill, i left it at that.
Hi Tony good review as usual. Having a GSA (Love it) which I wouldn’t have expected to see in your review I would go for the Kawasaki. Good engine, luggage and comfy just what you need if your getting away. The Yamaha would be my second choice, good value for money. Years ago I had a 900 Diversion went to South of France on it 👍 brilliant engine. Good stuff Tony 👍
Cheers Bud
Tracer 9👌
Why did they leave out the Honda VFR800X crossrunner. Imho a brilliant sports tourer.
Its more of a 'Touring bike' than a sports tourer, and I guess the same could be said of the Yamaha's. But that was part of the point of the video showing that what we in the UK would class as a sports tourer is disappearing and beign replaced with more upright machines.
So many beautiful bikes! They all look great, but, damn, that Kawa H2 knocks it out of the park!
I'm baised mate. Got a H2SXSE+. Awesome machine ;)
I bought a Ninja 1000sx 21 model and it's perfect for me. I love it!
Good choice!
I’m very happy with my R1250RS. No bike is perfect but this is the best option for my old bones. Expensive bike to buy and maintain. Put bar risers on it and a tall AeroFlow screen and I’m good to go.
Try a Tracer. Upright and very light. Extremely reliable and cheap to run comparatively. Your right, no bike is perfect, but once your on a light bike, it’s hard to go back. Have fun whatever you ride !
Great info and well done! I just demo'd the Ninja 1000SX. I love it! Total bang for buck and that inline 4 is so smooth with so much roll on torque in every gear at nearly any rpm! On my short list for my next bike. Sub'd. 👍🏼
Cheers Jason
It's a great bike, you won't be disappointed. I've ridden the 9 GT and have had 3 TDMs in the past (which destroyed gixxers of the time) but still delighted with the Z1000sx.
Not sure why the BMW K1600 GT, Concours 14, and FJR are being ignored...yet again. I'm on my second Concours 14 and still have not found a better sport-tourer. The BMW is huge... the FJR doesn't have the same motor or aggressive looks at the Concours, but still checks all the boxes for a good Sport Tourer. It seems the new trend by all the companies is to raise the handlebars on their sport bikes, and throw on some side bags and they call it a tourer...but when you look at the seats, for example, I don't see 500-mile+ days on many of the bikes reviewed here. Protection from the elements is a big deal, as is electronic-adjustable wind-screen for touring.
Well, I couldn't include 'all' bikes and I capped it at two per brand. Nothing wrong with those bikes, but both the Concours 14 (1400 GTR) and FJR are not available to buy in the UK in 2021, hence not on the list. I see quite a few bikes on the list capable of 500+ miles a day. But the trend is towards a more upright 'adventure Tourer' for a lot of manufacturers.
Any bike is fine to tour on. Who needs a fairing?
Spend 3 days riding in the rain and you may change your mind on a fairing.
@@vanislerider7311 I have had bikes with and without over 250,000 miles, and I prefer no fairing.
Best compilation in Ages thx
Thanks Dieter
Suzuki now has the GSX 1000S GT with TFT display and luggage, 150 bhp.
Yep I can feel a update video coming
Nice video. There's not much about the Tracer making me want to ditch my Tiger 800. The 1000sx, on the other hand, Tiger may be on it's way out.
Honda's VFR800 may be getting long in the tooth, but that MOTOR (without all the gee-gaws that modern releases have) for 10 Gorillas is exceptional.
I like the Tracer 9's seating position. I'd be most happy with a Tracer 7 with a full power 689cc motor (ala Tenere 700 or MT07HO), not the strangled 655cc learner legal motor.
Best mid capacity sport tourer for poor Australian roads is Suzuki's V-Strom 650. They sell loads of them here (as a proportion of overall sales)
Thanks for the upload; very interesting.
PS: The VFR800 has a Euro 4 compliant engine; and so it’s only available while stocks last (as with the Crossrunner + the 1200 Crosstourer).
Yep, I only included to highlight how Honda have nothing in the sector anymore
Ducati supersport 950 what a beauty!
But not a tourer...sports bike
Indeed, its a 'sports tourer',
Very well done!
Thank you
If I didn't have to prioritize pillion space so much, I would choose the Duc.
But as things are, it will probably the Tracer 9
both excellent choices, but practicality often rules out
My buddy had the MV. He found it to be too buzzy. It needs to be flogged in order to make power and he grew tired of it quickly. He bought a Multistrada to replace it
A curious mix of bikes. The MV Veloce is included, but not the Ducati Multistrada or the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally GT? Just demonstrates how the lines between Sport Touring and Adventure are blurring. Personally for me, the value for money pick is the Kwaka 1000.
Indeed it seems the traditional looking sports tourer is disappearing and moving into a more upright style. I included the Multistrada in my Adventure bike video and i'd put the Tiger 900 GT in the Adventure segment. I had to draw the line somewhere or the video would be two hours long!
Excellent presentation
Thanks George
Excellent video again, thanks. All lovely bikes too !.
Thanks Roger
How about the FJR 1300
No longer available in the UK, so I left it off the list
Triumph need to bring back the Sprint ST with the new 1200 triple engine in it.... start the petition!!! 👍😁
That would be cool!
Connie 14 and fjr 1300 too touring oriented?
Both are discontinued, don't meet Euro 5, so wouldn't be on a 2021 roundup anyway.
What would the Kawasaki Versys be considered?
Yes potentially, but i has to draw the line somewhere...
The clear winner (price no object) is BMW’s king of the hill K1600GT. Everything else fights for 2nd.
You forgot the venerable Yamaha FJR1300ES.
I didn't include it as its not longer available new in the UK
Last June I bought a Kim 1090 adventure, a 2018 bike with 750 miles for £8300 from local Honda dealer and it’s a great bike with bags of power and great comfort!! I wonder are the traditional sports tourers dying out🤔
Nice, yes I think they are which Is why I thought I'd explore that with this video. Theres definitely a move towards more upright 'Adventure Tourers' from a lot of manufacturers.
For value for money, brilliant spec, unquestionable reliability in a bike that looks good, doesn't have the stupid "one eye" look headlights of the Yamaha, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX just looks so good. Also bear in mind that a 2020 new model with zero miles could be had for £9999. A winner in my book.
It’s a great choice for sure, so much bike for the cash
Honda’s nt1100 looks really good. I hope they come out with it
Two bikes that should be here, imho: Versys 1000 and obviouslly R 1250 RT
Both great bikes, but as with other suggestions you could argue they are not ‘sports tourers’, but then that argument could be put against someone this list. That’s kind of the point I was making, what we in the UK would class as a sports tourer is becoming less popular.
The Tracer has always been the only one in this segment that has interested me. Having done a 2000 mile weekend on an R3 (among other long ass rides), i honestly don't consider any of the other bikes touring capable because of the "Sporty" riding position. My 2015 R3 was somewhat upright, yet still painful after a couple hundred miles.
And i disagree a bit on the looks. The tracer 900 was way better looking than the new tracer 9. Those tiny little lights on top of that big chunky body, just make it awkward and disproportionate looking
To be honest, I'd put it you that the Ninja 1000SX, the Ninja H2SX, the BMW 1250 and I suppose that the Ducati can fit into here as the only sport tourers in this list of bikes. The rest, with their longer suspension I'd call adventure tourers. Okay, that doesn't include the VFR but that's not in production anymore. (I had a '04 VFR for 160,000km and it was excellent).
And, I'm going to be totally obviously biased and say I will replace my 2012 Ninja Z1000SX with a 2021 Ninja 1000SX as soon as I have the cash.... The bike has been an excellent replacement to the VFR.
Exactly the point I was trying to make, what would have ‘traditionally’ been seen as a sports tourer is disappearing as a lot of manufacturers seem to be moving towards the more upright biased designs.
im just about to do a euro trip on an mt09 with luggage. but im tempted to swap it out for the new tenere world raid with its dual petrol tanks it could be a game changer. the mt will eat fuel because i cant ride it without hitting the throttle haha.