20 best motorcycles
Traveling to different countries of the world on a motorcycle is not only fast, but also informative. And even trips around the hometown can deliver a lot of unexpected emotions on a two-wheeled friend. Due to the huge abundance of motor vehicles in the domestic market, the choice of the most suitable bike is becoming a serious problem. In this regard, it is difficult to develop a unified approach for all fans of this type of transport. After all, someone uses a motorcycle for daily commuting to work or study, someone riding a bike becomes their favorite hobby, and for someone technology is an integral part of their work. Much also depends on the financial capabilities of a person. Decent motorcycles can be found in a large assortment at an affordable price though. Where to start the choice? Perhaps the easiest way to do this is by relying on your favorite brands.
- The highest quality and most reliable motorcycles in the world are BMW branded motorcycles. This European manufacturer produced a two-wheeled vehicle back in 1923. The concern was close to closing after the war, but motorcycles became its lifeline.
- The American brand Harley-Davidson also has many ardent fans in the world. The technique of this brand is associated with solidity and comfort, and the famous Harleys have been produced for over 100 years.
- The Italian motorcycle company Ducati has a great historical experience. Although the company was founded in 1926, the first bikes came off the assembly line of the plant only in the post-war period. Only before the Italians specialized in cheap technology, and today only wealthy people can buy their samples.
- The largest Japanese motorcycle manufacturer is Honda. The company was born in 1955, and by 1982 the annual production volume was 3 million units. Today the employees of this company specialize in the production of sports bikes.
- In the same 1955, another well-known division called Yamaha appeared in Japan. And immediately the first motorcycle brought victory to this company in the racing competition at the foot of Mount Fuji. The modern consumer is offered not only sports bikes, but also conventional road models.
- Do not forget about the wide popularity of Chinese motor vehicles in our country. Although it is most often an exact copy of the famous Japanese, the affordable price makes buying a bike from the Middle Kingdom very tempting. In addition, the quality of Chinese products is constantly improving every year.
Our review includes the best motorcycles of different types. The rating was created taking into account the reviews of amateurs and professionals in the world of bikes.
The best sports bikes
Sport motorcycles allow you to enjoy fast driving. They are created for high-quality asphalt roads, and not everyone can buy a good sports bike.
3 KTM RC 390
You can start your sports career with the help of the Austrian motorcycle KTM RC 390. It is sold at an affordable price, while providing the owner with invaluable experience in sports riding. Despite the modest engine parameters (volume 373 cubes, power 43 hp), the bike is distinguished by enviable throttle response and responsiveness. Lightweight and manoeuvrable, the bike has a racing frame design and is comfortable to handle, especially when driving through city streets. An informative digital display shows all important operating parameters, such as fuel level, gear number. There is nothing superfluous in the bike, which is why the owner will feel all the delights of a sporty ride. The motorcycle will become a real training simulator and a reliable training friend.
Happy owners of the KTM RC 390 have already appreciated its sporting performance. The model has become available to broad strata of Russian society. In addition, it is reliable, stable and predictable. Of the minuses, the vibration of equipment at high engine speeds is noted.
2 Ducati SuperSport
Many motorcyclists today want to enjoy high-speed driving every day. It is for them that the comfortable sports bike with perfected control Ducati SuperSport was created. It is ideal for driving on city streets and highways every day. A distinctive feature of the model is the vertical position of the biker, which reduces pressure on the wrist. The sporty character of the technology lies in the uncompromising nature of the 937 cc (113 hp) engine. It has an efficient L-Twin liquid cooling system. But they recognize the Italian sports car by the red fairing, red frame and black glossy wheels. The motorcycle is equipped with an intelligent power selection system that takes into account the athlete's riding style and helps him in future races.
Owners of Ducati SuperSport motorcycles always stand out from the crowd. Driving pleasure is provided by a comfortable position, a powerful motor and the presence of ABS. The heavy bike lacks a bit of power out of tight corners.
1 Yamaha YZF-R6
The Yamaha YZF-R6 sports bike makes music on the road, especially when the pilot kicks off the throttle. No wonder the Russians associate Yamaha both as a technique and as musical instruments. And the emblem of the company was not without art. The 3 crossed tuning forks can be seen on every motorcycle from the firm. Complete harmony of the rider with the bike is achieved thanks to a well-thought-out ergonomic design. The narrow frame and snug fit allow the owner to blend in with the machine. The bike behaves equally well on tight city streets and on race tracks, in the mountains and off-road. Behind the back of the legend R6 already 3 championship titles in the "Supersport" competition. What is not a reason to plunge into the world of music from Yamaha.
The Yamaha YZF-R6 is not in vain topping many of the best bikes. Owners appreciate it for its agility and agility, unusual appearance and unique musicality. Some athletes express complaints about the reliability of the motor.
Best Touring Motorcycles
A motorcycle trip becomes a memorable experience for any person. Touring models should combine not only reliability and power, but spaciousness and comfort.
5 BRP CAN-AM SPYDER
The most unsafe motorcycles are motocross. Those that develop great speed and are capable of intricate maneuvers. But if you do not want to fly into a sharp turn at a speed of 200 kilometers, but simply prefer to surf the world on comfortable equipment, then this model is especially for you. In fact, it's not even a motorcycle, but a tricycle, but that doesn't change anything. It has a lot of advantages that completely offset the rather high cost.
Firstly, it is as stable as possible, which is not surprising, given the presence of three wheels at once. Secondly, it just has huge luggage compartments. Even if you go to conquer the world together, you will have no shortage of usable space. And thirdly, it is the safest bike you can find. The Canadians have devoted an incredible amount of time and effort to create this monster. On the track, he develops quite an impressive speed, and still remains as safe as possible thanks to a huge number of sensors and auxiliary systems.
4 Honda CTX1300
A touring motorcycle allows you to conquer the world on your own, and this is not just a big phrase. Of course, some little-known Chinese brand that produces 250 cc bikes will not allow you to do this, but when it comes to a Japanese Honda, any dream instantly becomes a reality. Why is this motorcycle so attractive, and why, despite the rather impressive price tag, is it invariably popular all over the world? The secret lies in many aspects, but the main advantage of this particular bike is the available spare parts at the most attractive prices.
Yes, the cost of the motorcycle itself is quite high, but it should be understood that it is so reliable that you practically will not need spare parts for it.And even if an unexpected breakdown happens, you can easily find parts in any store, real or virtual. Honda motorcycles often fall into various TOPs, and our rating is no exception. Buying their products, you get guaranteed quality and this is truly the best brand on the market today.
3 BMW K1600GT
The best premium touring motorcycle in our review was the BMW K1600GT model from Bavaria. It perfectly coexists the character of a sports bike with the habits of a traveler. The technique is versatile. So for daily trips around the city, you can detach the side compartments for things, dismantle the rear rack along with the soft back. The result is a stylish, lightweight version. And in full combat gear, the car weighs 348 kg, but thanks to the powerful engine (160 hp) tourists will not feel problems either with acceleration or with overcoming high inclines. It is worth noting that the engine on the BMW K1600GT is a 6-cylinder 1649 cc. The six-speed transmission evenly distributes the powerful torque. Despite its power and spaciousness, the motorcycle looks quite compact and very stylish.
Domestic owners of a Bavarian bike speak flatteringly about the engine's power, good braking system, excellent lighting, spacious luggage compartments. Add pleasant emotions while driving and options such as heated seats and handles, high-quality audio system. Among the shortcomings mentioned are stiff front suspension, inconvenient throttle grip.
2 Honda GL 1500 Gold Wing
The high prestige of the Honda GL 1500 Gold Wing touring motorcycle is due to several reasons. The technique is often referred to as a two-wheeled vehicle as it allows long journeys with minimal driver and passenger fatigue. Thanks to the separate seats, the back does not get tired during a long ride, in addition, the passenger seat is equipped with comfortable folding armrests. All luggage fits perfectly into the side closable compartments, as well as into the rear large trunk. The six-cylinder engine with a volume of 1832 cubic meters (100 hp) can easily cope with a heavy load and will allow you to get pleasant emotions from fast acceleration. The model has deep historical roots, for the first time a tourist motorcycle with this name was presented at the Cologne exhibition in 1987. Since then, the equipment has been modernized more than once, but retained its high prestige.
Owners of Honda GL 1500 Gold Wing motorcycles are ready to enumerate the advantages of this model for an infinitely long time. The main ones remain prestige, safety, comfort, power. Some are not satisfied with the heavy weight of the equipment, poor maneuverability, fragile plastic.
1 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic
The American motorcycle Harley-Davidson Road King Classic allows you to enjoy a long tourist trip. This iconic bike is eye-catching with its timelessly classic styling, with an abundance of chrome details and genuine leather. The uniqueness of the model is emphasized by the luxurious finish of the cases. To ensure convenience on the road, the manufacturer equipped the equipment with a comfortable wide seat, correctly positioned the steering wheel, and took care of protection from the wind. As standard, the owner will receive voluminous trunks, an ABS system and cruise control, reliable footrests with adjustable height. Following the classic style of decoration, the Americans installed a simple instrument panel with an analog speedometer. The original decor was invented for the fuel tank, one of the caps is real, and the other is an imitation.
Domestic travelers note such advantages of the Harley-Davidson Road King Classic as comfort during long driving, a powerful engine, a minimum vibration level and full-size footpegs for the driver and passenger. Some disadvantages of the motorcycle have also been identified. We have to add oil to the engine because of the big burnout, the head optics poorly illuminate the road.
Best motocross bikes
Cross-country motorcycle racing is the lot of motocross proponents. Let them not have the most outstanding power and stylistic qualities, but they have full speed and agility.
5 HUSQVARNA FC 450
If the Swedes take on the release of something, then they will surely get the best masterpiece. This brand is known not only to sports and motorcycle lovers, but also to gardeners. Various tools are produced under this brand, and few people know that initially HUSQVARNA produced only motorcycles, including motocross.
Before us is the TOP bike, equipped with a 450 cc engine, and this with a weight of only 70 kilograms. The bike is so powerful that a layman may simply not be able to handle it. If you don't have enough track experience, it's better to postpone the purchase of this monster for the future, and consider the options with 250 cc engines, which are also in the arsenal of the company. By the way, there are inexpensive Chinese counterparts on the market, released under a Swedish license. They are cheaper, and the test results are not so impressive, but this is the best alternative that will save your wallet from spending on the purchase and subsequent maintenance of rather expensive equipment.
4 Honda CRF 450 R
The Japanese company Honda produces a wide range of equipment, including cross-country motorcycles. In their arsenal there are both small representatives, with engines of 250 cc, and quite powerful bikes designed for professional motocross competitions.
Before us is a motocross motorcycle, which simply could not fail to get into the TOP. It has a powerful 450 cc engine for this class. At the same time, the weight of the equipment is less than 100 kilograms, which allows you to perform the most complex and intricate tricks with jumps and flips on it. The bike's handling is excellent and highly appreciated by professional riders. By the way, it is the racers who warn beginners against buying this monster, as it is too fast and powerful, and it takes a lot of experience to keep it on the track or road. Simply put, this is the best, or one of the best motocross bikes, on which you can also move around the city, since its class is enduro, which means it has all the necessary elements for riding on busy roads.
3 Yamaha YZ250F
Since 2001, the Yamaha YZ250F cross-country motorcycles have been active participants in various international competitions. To stay at the forefront of the motocross industry, Japanese engineers have to innovate. The ideal combination of energy and responsiveness was achieved due to a number of factors. First of all, the design of the engine cylinder head has been seriously improved. In the power supply system, the efficiency of the air intake has increased. These changes had a positive effect on the power output of the 250 cc engine. But for cross-country racing, an important part is the chassis, which has been modernized for performance in racing competitions. For the convenience of the athlete, it was necessary to introduce new suspension settings, to manufacture a fast and high-precision transmission. The handling of the bike has significantly improved, the front brake has become more efficient by increasing the disc diameter to 270 mm.
Owners consider the Yamaha YZ250F a balanced motorcycle that suits both novice athletes and world-class craftsmen. Only beginners should carefully add throttle, otherwise the bike instantly falls on one wheel.
2 KTM 250SX-F
The KTM 250SX-F motocross bike has led the MX2 World Championship podium for several years. The bike has two AMA Supercross titles. All these achievements of the European motocross motorcycle are not accidental. Austrian engineers created a powerful high-torque motor with a volume of 250 cubic meters, supplemented it with a light chassis, soft and reliable clutch, high-quality brakes. Not without the use of innovative technologies. One of them was introduced when creating a central frame based on steel chrome-molybdenum pipes.The result is a very fast and reliable bike that is comfortable to drive. The bike is equipped with a good damping system to make it comfortable for the driver when driving on bumps. Experts consider the front brake of Austrian technology to be one of the best among motocross bikes. With regular maintenance, the motorcycle will delight its owner with trouble-free operation for many years.
Trail racing professionals consider the KTM 250SX-F the best European off-road motorcycle. The advantages of the bike are a powerful motor, good grip, reliable brakes, trouble-free electric starter. Not everyone is happy with the gearbox and engine braking.
1 Kawasaki KX250F
The Kawasaki KX250F motocross motorcycle regularly confirms its leadership ambitions since 2002. It has repeatedly won various international tournaments, among which it is necessary to highlight the "250 Four-Stroke Shootout", "Supercross" and "Motocross". The secret to success lies in a surprisingly powerful engine, excellent handling, a redesigned adjustable fork and perfect ergonomics. It was possible to achieve high power from a subcompact (250 cubic meters) engine thanks to an electronically controlled injection system. The bike is also distinguished by smooth gear shifting, which gives the driver even more positive emotions from the ride. Among other design features, it is worth highlighting the aluminum frame, low weight, rigid suspension settings. With such parameters, the motorcycle will be able to conquer any road.
Experienced athletes note a number of positive characteristics of the Kawasaki KX250F motocross motorcycle. It is a combination of power and weight, easy cornering, excellent handling. The disadvantages of the technique include a hard seat and an uncomfortable bend in the steering wheel.
The best classic motorcycles
Not all riders like the upright riding position or the power of a huge bike. Many Russians prefer the classic technique, which behaves equally well in the city and beyond.
3 Racer Magnum RC200-C5B
The affordable Chinese Racer Magnum RC200-C5B motorcycle will help you feel like a real biker. Seasoned fans of motorcycles compare this model with the once popular Czech "Java". There is indeed a similarity both in appearance and in characteristics. The integral attributes of a classic bike are a flat solid seat, a dial tachometer and a speedometer on the steering wheel, round head optics, graceful hydraulic shock absorbers. An aluminum wheel rim and a disc brake system complete the picture. The power of the power unit (14.3 liters. From.) Is quite enough for driving according to the rules. At the same time, a small engine (200 cubic meters) consumes a little gasoline (2.2 liters). Although the technique is simple, it has modern options such as an electronic starting system and a kick starter. The distinctive features of the Chinese bike are light weight and a roomy tank.
Domestic motorcyclists highlight several advantages of the Racer Magnum RC200-C5B. This is a low price, economy, simplicity of design, practicality. A lot of complaints come from the owners about the build quality, poor electrical wiring, ineffective brakes.
2 Suzuki SV650
Suzuki SV650 motorcycles have always been considered excellent all-round models. The updated version, which was first presented at EICMA 2015, was no exception. The technique will become a reliable friend for both a novice biker and an experienced motorcyclist. The model is equipped with a solid 645 cc engine with two camshafts. The new fuel system allows for the most efficient use of fuel. A liquid cooling system with a radiator and fan helps to maintain the operating temperature in the optimal range. Serious improvements have also taken place in the motorcycle chassis. For example, the frame is lightened due to the use of modern aluminum alloys.New calipers and discs, as well as a modern ABS system, helped to improve the performance of the braking system. The biker will receive all the necessary information using a multifunctional LCD display equipped with an adjustable backlight.
Amateurs and professionals alike highlight several advantages of the Suzuki SV650 motorcycle. This is an affordable price, versatility, interesting design, economy. The disadvantages of the model include oil starvation of the engine, which often leads to cranking of the crankshaft liners.
1 Yamaha XJ6 Diversion
A unique road bike with excellent performance is the Yamaha XJ6 Diversion. Japanese engineers have incorporated technologies from the world of Supersport racing into a conventional bike. The model is equipped with a powerful power unit, which is used in racing cars. Only the power unit has undergone deformation in order to lighten the motorcycle and equalize the torque with other characteristics. Despite the low price, the workmanship remained at the highest level. Therefore, on a bike you can not only ride around the city every day, but also boldly go on long journeys. The powerful motor is complemented by a superb chassis for driving pleasure. It is she who gives the motorcycle excellent handling and excellent stability. Feel like a racer with a stylish instrument panel consisting of an analog tachometer and LED backlighting. The double seat provides maximum comfort for the driver and passenger.
Owners of the Yamaha XJ6 Diversion agree that the bike is perfectly balanced. The model does not have obvious sores if maintenance is carried out in a timely manner.
The best Chinese motorcycles
Thanks to cheap Chinese motorcycles, some professional athletes and avid travelers were taking their first steps. Today, the Chinese have worthy representatives in each category.
4 CF-Moto 650 TK
Chinese motorcycles have been conquering the world for a long time, and today they quite successfully compete with well-known European, Japanese and American brands. Before us is the Chinese answer to Harley and Honda. A motorcycle that often occupies the tops of various TOPs in the Celestial Empire, and if you still think that only low-quality goods are produced in China, then here is direct evidence of the opposite.
This technique is used in China by various special services, and also consists of government corteges of various levels. It's a powerful touring bike with a 650 cc engine and tons of bells and whistles. It has everything you need to conquer the world, but when going on a trip, you should take into account one important drawback. Finding parts for this motorcycle will be very difficult. There are a lot of them on the Chinese market, but they are reluctantly exported. It is not difficult to order a spare part, but it will take a long time to wait for delivery. Yes, here is the best price for equipment of this class. Try to find a touring bike at that price. We assure you that it will be very difficult, especially if we are talking about a new TOP technique, and not a used one.
3 Patron Taker 250
The Chinese motorcycle Patron Taker 250 looks spectacular on city streets. It owes its stylish appearance to fairings and plastic body kits, 17-inch alloy wheels, a classic round headlight and bright colors. But the model is not only outwardly pretty, its technical characteristics are also at their best. A small, but very high-spirited motor with a volume of 250 cubic meters is capable of accelerating equipment up to 140 km / h. The power unit has a number of interesting options, for example, liquid cooling, balance shafts, a four-valve block head. The engine is started with an electric starter. The torque is distributed by a 6-speed transmission. The bike behaves confidently and predictably while driving. Good handling is achieved due to the rigid diagonal frame, front "inverted" fork, rear monoshock.
Owners of Patron Taker 250 motorcycles speak flatteringly about the reliability, maneuverability, stylish appearance of the Chinese model. Dissatisfaction is caused by the quality of consumables, frequent failures in the operation of the carburetor.
2 Lifan LF250 Cruiser
A full-fledged Lifan LF250 Cruiser cruiser bike was made by Chinese engineers, copying the well-known Yamaha Virago model. The motorcycle looks solid thanks to the V-shaped engine with a volume of 250 cubic meters. Powerful torque is evenly distributed by the 5-speed transmission. The high speed is not the ridge of the bike, although it is declared at the level of 160 km / h. The deep black color of the main body parts in combination with chrome elements make you want to drive slowly on a good road, getting the most out of it. The manufacturer has provided for the possibility of installing side trunks if the owner wishes to go on a trip on the bike. The motorcycle is very stable while riding, it is comfortable to sit in it not only for the driver, but also for the passenger. The Chinese placed the dashboard on the gas tank.
Domestic motor owners have a lot of pleasant reviews about the Lifan LF250 Cruiser model. Such qualities of the bike as good quality, strict design, stable behavior on the road are noted. There are also annoying breakdowns, for example, a break in the clutch cable or interruptions in the operation of the carburetor. But many details fit from the old Yamaha Vigaro.
1 Zongshen Winner ZS250GS
The Chinese motorcycle Zongshen Winner ZS250GS can be safely attributed to the veterans of the domestic market. But today this sports bike has not lost its relevance. You can feel like a racer right away after sitting behind the wheel. The driver has to assume an upright position with his gaze ahead past the windscreen. The central element of the dashboard is a tachometer, which will show all the agility of a small engine with a capacity of 17.7 liters. with. The panel also houses another important fuel level indicator. The model is equipped with a spacious gas tank (20 liters), which allows you to travel long distances without refueling. The braking system is presented in the form of a disc structure, with two discs installed on the front wheel. From the side, plastic moldings, 17-inch wheels, an elegant wind shield look stylish. The engine is started using an electric starter, and when you press the gas, the power unit emits a bass sound.
Owners of the Zongshen Winner ZS250GS sports bike note such advantages of the model as stylish design, good acceleration dynamics, and economy. The gearbox and head optics deserve complaints.
Motorcycle tips from experts
After reading our review, many readers will draw certain conclusions for themselves. But if there is still a shadow of doubt, then maybe a few useful tips will help to finally clarify the situation.
- For those who travel around the city to work every day, deliver pizza or goods from online stores, a regular classic motorcycle would be a good option. Its main advantages lie not in speed and power, but in compactness and economy. It can be a prestigious model or an inexpensive Chinese.
- When a motorcycle becomes the meaning of life, and without speed and drive a person cannot imagine his existence, then the choice is made in favor of sports bikes. They inspire rave looks on the city street, but their element is expressways and rally tracks.
- An excellent activity for active motorcyclists is participation in off-road competitions, demonstration of jumping skills, driving on dirt roads. For such cases, a crossover technique is required.
- To conquer hundreds and thousands of kilometers, a motorcycle must become a wheelchair. On it, both the driver and the passenger will be comfortable looking at the world, and there will always be the necessary things from the personal wardrobe nearby.
- If the earnings do not allow you to purchase a branded motorcycle, do not get upset and leave the dream for later. Perhaps it will be possible to raise money for a Chinese motorcycle that is suitable in temperament.With its help, it will be possible to recharge with positive energy, which will then be enough for active work throughout the year.