Top Sport Touring Motorcycles Of 2024: Best Picks

Choosing the best sport touring motorcycle for 2024 involves balancing performance, comfort, and versatility. Sport tourers are designed to cover long distances with ease while still offering an engaging riding experience on twisty roads. This article dives into some of the top contenders in the sport touring category for 2024, highlighting their key features and what makes them stand out. Whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or weekend getaways, finding the right bike is crucial for an enjoyable ride. We'll explore models from various manufacturers, comparing their engines, ergonomics, technology, and overall capabilities to help you make an informed decision.

BMW R 1250 RT

The BMW R 1250 RT remains a top choice in the sport touring segment, and it’s easy to see why. This motorcycle combines powerful performance with unparalleled comfort, making it ideal for long-distance riding. At the heart of the R 1250 RT is a 1,254cc boxer engine that delivers a smooth and robust power output. This engine produces around 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, providing ample acceleration and effortless cruising capabilities. The ShiftCam technology optimizes the engine's performance across the rev range, ensuring responsive power delivery whether you're navigating city streets or tackling mountain passes. The R 1250 RT's comfortable ergonomics are a standout feature. The riding position is upright and relaxed, reducing strain on your back and wrists during long rides. The adjustable windscreen and fairing provide excellent wind protection, shielding you from the elements and reducing fatigue. The heated seats and grips add an extra layer of comfort, making it suitable for riding in various weather conditions. Technology is another area where the R 1250 RT excels. It comes equipped with a large 10.25-inch TFT display that provides clear and comprehensive information. The display integrates with BMW's Motorrad Connected app, allowing you to access navigation, media, and phone functions. The Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) system automatically adjusts the suspension to suit the riding conditions, enhancing both comfort and handling. Additional features include adaptive cruise control, which maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and multiple riding modes that allow you to customize the bike's performance to your preferences. The R 1250 RT also offers ample storage space with its integrated panniers, making it practical for touring. With its blend of performance, comfort, and technology, the BMW R 1250 RT continues to set the standard for sport touring motorcycles.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a versatile sport touring motorcycle that offers a compelling combination of performance and practicality. This bike is designed for riders who want a sporty machine that’s also comfortable enough for long-distance trips. The Ninja 1000SX is powered by a 1,043cc inline-four engine that delivers strong and linear power. This engine produces around 140 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of punch for spirited riding. The engine's responsiveness and smooth power delivery make it enjoyable in a variety of riding situations, from carving through twisty roads to cruising on the highway. The Ninja 1000SX features a comfortable and adaptable riding position. The seat is well-padded, and the handlebars are positioned to provide a balance between sporty and upright ergonomics. The adjustable windscreen allows you to customize the level of wind protection, enhancing comfort on long rides. The bike also comes standard with cruise control, which is a welcome feature for reducing fatigue on the open road. Kawasaki has equipped the Ninja 1000SX with a range of advanced technology features. The bike has a 4.3-inch TFT display that provides essential information and integrates with Kawasaki's Rideology app. The app allows you to connect your smartphone to the bike, enabling features such as GPS navigation, ride logging, and vehicle information. The Ninja 1000SX also features electronic rider aids such as traction control, cornering ABS, and multiple riding modes. These systems help to enhance safety and control in various riding conditions. The Ninja 1000SX offers practical features such as integrated pannier mounts, making it easy to add storage for touring. The bike’s sporty styling and comfortable ergonomics make it a great choice for riders who want a versatile machine that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. With its blend of performance, comfort, and technology, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a strong contender in the sport touring category.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is another excellent option in the sport touring segment, known for its agile handling and advanced features. This motorcycle is designed to provide a comfortable and engaging riding experience, whether you're tackling twisty roads or cruising on the highway. At the heart of the Tracer 9 GT is an 890cc inline-three engine that delivers a distinctive and torquey power output. This engine produces around 117 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque, providing ample acceleration and responsive performance. The engine's crossplane crankshaft design gives it a unique sound and feel, adding to the overall riding experience. The Tracer 9 GT features a comfortable and adjustable riding position. The seat height can be adjusted to suit different riders, and the handlebars are positioned to provide a balance between sporty and upright ergonomics. The adjustable windscreen offers good wind protection, enhancing comfort on long rides. The bike also comes standard with heated grips and cruise control, which are welcome features for touring. Yamaha has equipped the Tracer 9 GT with a range of advanced technology features. The bike has dual 3.5-inch TFT displays that provide essential information and are easy to read. The displays can be customized to show different information, such as speed, fuel level, and trip data. The Tracer 9 GT also features electronic rider aids such as traction control, slide control, and cornering ABS. These systems help to enhance safety and control in various riding conditions. The Tracer 9 GT comes standard with electronic suspension, which automatically adjusts the damping to suit the riding conditions. This enhances both comfort and handling, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The bike also offers integrated pannier mounts, making it easy to add storage for touring. With its blend of agility, comfort, and technology, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a strong contender in the sport touring category.

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a premium sport touring motorcycle that offers high-performance capabilities and advanced technology. This bike is designed for riders who want a versatile machine that can handle everything from twisty mountain roads to long-distance highway cruising. The Multistrada V4 S is powered by a 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine that delivers exceptional power and torque. This engine produces around 170 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque, providing blistering acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine's smooth and responsive power delivery makes it a joy to ride in any situation. The Multistrada V4 S features a comfortable and commanding riding position. The seat is well-padded, and the handlebars are positioned to provide a balance between sporty and upright ergonomics. The adjustable windscreen offers excellent wind protection, enhancing comfort on long rides. The bike also comes standard with heated grips and cruise control, which are welcome features for touring. Ducati has equipped the Multistrada V4 S with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology features. The bike has a 6.5-inch TFT display that provides essential information and integrates with Ducati's Connect app. The app allows you to connect your smartphone to the bike, enabling features such as GPS navigation, music streaming, and phone calls. The Multistrada V4 S also features electronic rider aids such as traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS. These systems help to enhance safety and control in various riding conditions. The Multistrada V4 S comes standard with electronic suspension, which automatically adjusts the damping to suit the riding conditions. This enhances both comfort and handling, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The bike also offers integrated pannier mounts, making it easy to add storage for touring. With its blend of performance, comfort, and technology, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a top-tier choice in the sport touring category.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a high-performance sport touring motorcycle that combines the raw power of the Super Duke R with added comfort and touring amenities. This bike is designed for riders who want a thrilling and engaging riding experience without sacrificing long-distance comfort. At the heart of the 1290 Super Duke GT is a 1,301cc V-twin engine that delivers immense power and torque. This engine produces around 175 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque, providing explosive acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine's aggressive and responsive power delivery makes it a blast to ride in any situation. The 1290 Super Duke GT features a comfortable and sporty riding position. The seat is well-padded, and the handlebars are positioned to provide a balance between sporty and upright ergonomics. The adjustable windscreen offers good wind protection, enhancing comfort on long rides. The bike also comes standard with heated grips and cruise control, which are welcome features for touring. KTM has equipped the 1290 Super Duke GT with a range of advanced technology features. The bike has a 6.5-inch TFT display that provides essential information and integrates with KTM's My Ride app. The app allows you to connect your smartphone to the bike, enabling features such as GPS navigation, music streaming, and phone calls. The 1290 Super Duke GT also features electronic rider aids such as traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS. These systems help to enhance safety and control in various riding conditions. The 1290 Super Duke GT comes standard with electronic suspension, which automatically adjusts the damping to suit the riding conditions. This enhances both comfort and handling, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The bike also offers integrated pannier mounts, making it easy to add storage for touring. With its blend of performance, comfort, and technology, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a top-tier choice in the sport touring category for riders who crave adrenaline-pumping performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sport touring motorcycle category offers a diverse range of options for riders seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Each of the motorcycles discussed—the BMW R 1250 RT, Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, Ducati Multistrada V4 S, and KTM 1290 Super Duke GT—brings its unique strengths to the table. The BMW R 1250 RT excels in providing a luxurious and comfortable long-distance riding experience with its advanced technology and smooth boxer engine. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX offers a sporty yet practical option with its strong inline-four engine and adaptable ergonomics. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT stands out with its agile handling and advanced electronic features, making it a joy to ride on twisty roads. The Ducati Multistrada V4 S delivers high-performance capabilities and cutting-edge technology, catering to riders who want a versatile and premium machine. Finally, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT combines the raw power of the Super Duke R with added comfort and touring amenities, offering an exhilarating riding experience. When choosing the best sport touring motorcycle for 2024, consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, technology, or a combination of these factors, there is a sport tourer that will suit your riding style and adventures. By carefully evaluating the features and capabilities of each model, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect bike for your next journey.