Sport touring motorcycles are a unique blend of sport and touring motorcycles, designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience on both short and long journeys. They typically feature a more upright riding position than sportbikes, with handlebars that are higher and wider, and a seat that is more supportive. This makes them more comfortable for long rides, while still providing the agility and performance of a sportbike. Sport touring motorcycles also typically have more storage space than sportbikes, with panniers or saddlebags that can be used to carry luggage. This makes them a good choice for riders who plan to do extended touring.
Sport touring motorcycles are a popular choice for riders who want the best of both worlds: the performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring motorcycle. They are also a good choice for riders who plan to do a lot of long-distance riding, as they are more comfortable and have more storage space than sportbikes.
Here are some of the benefits of sport touring motorcycles:
- Comfortable riding position
- Good performance
- Plenty of storage space
- Versatile
1. Versatility
Sport touring bikes are incredibly versatile machines that can be used for a wide range of riding activities. Whether you’re commuting to work, touring across the country, or carving up some corners on a track day, a sport touring bike can do it all. This versatility is one of the main reasons why sport touring bikes are so popular among riders.
- Commuting: Sport touring bikes are a great choice for commuting because they are comfortable, fuel-efficient, and easy to maneuver in traffic. They also have enough storage space to carry your work gear and other essentials.
- Touring: Sport touring bikes are also great for touring because they are comfortable for long rides and have plenty of storage space for your luggage. They also have powerful engines that can handle long highway miles and winding mountain roads.
- Track days: While sport touring bikes are not as track-focused as pure sportbikes, they can still be a lot of fun on a track day. They are agile and handle well, and they have enough power to get you around the track at a good pace.
The versatility of sport touring bikes makes them a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all. Whether you’re looking for a bike for commuting, touring, or track days, a sport touring bike is a great option.
2. Comfort
Comfort is a key factor to consider when choosing a sport touring bike. After all, you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the saddle, so you want to make sure you’re comfortable. Sport touring bikes have a more upright riding position than sportbikes, which puts less strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. They also have more supportive seats, which can make a big difference on long rides.
The upright riding position of sport touring bikes also gives you a better view of the road ahead, which can be helpful in avoiding hazards and planning your route. And the more supportive seats can help to reduce fatigue, which is important on long rides.
If you’re planning on doing any long-distance riding, then comfort should be a top priority. Sport touring bikes offer the best of both worlds: the performance of a sportbike with the comfort of a touring bike. So if you’re looking for a bike that can handle long rides in comfort, then a sport touring bike is a great option.
3. Performance
Performance is a key factor to consider when choosing a sport touring bike. After all, you want a bike that can keep up with you on your favorite twisty roads and provide enough power to overtake slower traffic on the highway. Sport touring bikes offer good performance, with powerful engines and agile handling, making them a great choice for riders who want the best of both worlds.
- Powerful engines: Sport touring bikes are equipped with powerful engines that can provide plenty of acceleration and top-end speed. This makes them a great choice for riders who enjoy riding at a brisk pace.
- Agile handling: Sport touring bikes are also known for their agile handling. They are easy to maneuver and can be ridden with confidence on winding roads. This makes them a great choice for riders who enjoy taking their bikes through the twisties.
The combination of powerful engines and agile handling makes sport touring bikes a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you’re commuting to work, touring across the country, or carving up some corners on a track day, a sport touring bike can provide the performance you need.
4. Storage
Storage space is an important consideration for any motorcyclist, but it is especially important for sport touring riders. After all, sport touring bikes are designed for long-distance riding, and riders need to be able to carry all of their gear with them.
Sport touring bikes typically have more storage space than sportbikes because they have larger fairings and tail sections. This gives riders more room to mount panniers or saddlebags, which can be used to carry luggage, tools, and other gear. Some sport touring bikes also come with built-in storage compartments, such as tank bags or tail trunks.
The increased storage space of sport touring bikes is a major advantage for riders who plan on doing any long-distance riding. With more storage space, riders can bring all of the gear they need without having to worry about running out of room. This makes sport touring bikes a great choice for riders who want to explore the open road without having to sacrifice any of their creature comforts.
Here are some examples of how the increased storage space of sport touring bikes can be beneficial:
- Riders can bring extra clothing and gear, so they are prepared for any weather conditions.
- Riders can bring tools and spare parts, so they can make repairs on the road if necessary.
- Riders can bring food and drinks, so they can stay fueled and hydrated during long rides.
- Riders can bring camping gear, so they can spend the night under the stars.
As you can see, the increased storage space of sport touring bikes can make a big difference for riders who plan on doing any long-distance riding. If you are looking for a motorcycle that can handle long rides in comfort and style, then a sport touring bike is a great option.
5. Reliability
Reliability is a key factor to consider when choosing a sport touring bike. After all, you want a bike that you can count on to get you where you’re going, no matter what the conditions. Sport touring bikes are built to be reliable, with durable components and regular maintenance intervals.
The durable components of sport touring bikes are designed to withstand the rigors of long-distance riding. The frames are made of lightweight yet strong materials, such as aluminum or steel. The engines are designed to be reliable and efficient, and the suspension is designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride.
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping any motorcycle running in top condition, and sport touring bikes are no exception. Sport touring bikes typically have regular maintenance intervals of 6,000 to 8,000 miles. During these intervals, the bike’s fluids should be changed, the brakes should be inspected, and the tires should be checked for wear. By following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can help to ensure that your sport touring bike will be reliable for many years to come.
The reliability of sport touring bikes is one of the things that makes them a great choice for long-distance riding. When you’re on a long ride, you want to be able to count on your bike to get you where you’re going, no matter what. Sport touring bikes are built to be reliable, so you can ride with confidence, knowing that your bike will be there for you.
FAQs about Sport Touring Bikes
Sport touring bikes are a popular choice for riders who want the best of both worlds: the performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring motorcycle. However, there are some common questions and misconceptions about sport touring bikes that potential buyers should be aware of.
Question 1: Are sport touring bikes too heavy and bulky for spirited riding?
Answer: While sport touring bikes are typically heavier than pure sportbikes, they are still designed to be agile and fun to ride. Modern sport touring bikes use lightweight materials and advanced suspension systems to provide a responsive and engaging riding experience.
Question 2: Are sport touring bikes comfortable for long rides?
Answer: Yes, sport touring bikes are designed to be comfortable for long rides. They have a more upright riding position than sportbikes, which puts less strain on the back, neck, and shoulders. They also have more supportive seats and wind protection, which can help to reduce fatigue on long journeys.
Question 3: Can sport touring bikes handle off-road riding?
Answer: Most sport touring bikes are not designed for off-road riding. They have a low ground clearance and suspension that is tuned for on-road performance. However, there are some adventure-oriented sport touring bikes that are designed to handle light off-road riding.
Question 4: Are sport touring bikes expensive to maintain?
Answer: Sport touring bikes are typically more expensive to maintain than standard motorcycles. They have more complex engines and suspension systems, which require more frequent maintenance and servicing. However, the cost of maintenance will vary depending on the make and model of the bike.
Question 5: Are sport touring bikes good for beginners?
Answer: Sport touring bikes can be a good choice for beginners who are looking for a versatile and comfortable motorcycle. However, they are typically more expensive than standard motorcycles, and they can be more difficult to maneuver at low speeds. Beginners may want to consider starting with a smaller, more manageable motorcycle before moving up to a sport touring bike.
Question 6: What are the best sport touring bikes on the market?
Answer: The best sport touring bikes on the market will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. However, some popular and highly-rated sport touring bikes include the BMW R 1250 RT, the Honda NT1100, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT.
These are just a few of the most common questions and misconceptions about sport touring bikes. By understanding the answers to these questions, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a sport touring bike is the right choice for you.
If you are interested in learning more about sport touring bikes, there are a number of resources available online and in print. You can also visit your local motorcycle dealership to talk to a salesperson and learn more about the different models available.
No matter what your riding style or experience level, there is a sport touring bike that can meet your needs. With their combination of performance, comfort, and practicality, sport touring bikes are a great choice for riders who want to explore the open road in style.
Now that you know more about sport touring bikes, you can start your search for the perfect bike for your needs. With so many great options on the market, you are sure to find a sport touring bike that you will love.
Tips for Choosing the Best Sport Touring Bike
Sport touring bikes are a great choice for riders who want the best of both worlds: the performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring motorcycle. However, with so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best sport touring bike for your needs:
Tip 1: Consider your riding style and needs. What kind of riding do you plan on doing? If you’re planning on doing mostly long-distance touring, you’ll need a bike with a comfortable seat, good wind protection, and plenty of storage space. If you’re planning on doing more spirited riding, you’ll need a bike with good handling and performance.
Tip 2: Set a budget. Sport touring bikes can range in price from $10,000 to $30,000 or more. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Tip 3: Do your research. There are a lot of great sport touring bikes on the market, so it’s important to do your research and compare different models. Read reviews, talk to other riders, and visit your local motorcycle dealership to learn more about the different options available.
Tip 4: Test ride different bikes. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s important to test ride different bikes to see which one is the best fit for you. Pay attention to the bike’s handling, comfort, and performance. And don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson questions about the bike’s features and capabilities.
Tip 5: Get the right gear. In addition to choosing the right bike, it’s also important to get the right gear. This includes a good helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots. The right gear can help to keep you safe and comfortable on your rides.
Tip 6: Maintain your bike. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your sport touring bike in good condition. This includes changing the oil, checking the brakes, and inspecting the tires. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can help to ensure that your bike will be reliable for many years to come.
Tip 7: Ride safely. Sport touring bikes are powerful machines, so it’s important to ride safely. Always wear a helmet, obey the speed limit, and be aware of your surroundings. And never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
By following these tips, you can choose the best sport touring bike for your needs and enjoy many years of safe and enjoyable riding.
Conclusion
Sport touring bikes offer the best of both worlds: the performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring motorcycle. They are a great choice for riders who want to explore the open road in style and comfort.
When choosing a sport touring bike, it is important to consider your riding style and needs. There are many great models on the market, so it is important to do your research and compare different options. Once you have found the right bike, be sure to get the right gear and maintain your bike properly. By following these tips, you can enjoy many years of safe and enjoyable riding.
Sport touring bikes are a great way to experience the freedom of the open road. They are versatile and capable machines that can handle a variety of riding conditions. Whether you are planning a long-distance tour or a spirited weekend ride, a sport touring bike is a great choice.
