Thinking About Renting a Car? Rent These Motorcycles in San Diego Instead.

Jan 6, 2022

Known as 'America's Finest City,' there's a reason why San Diego ranks as one of the best places to live in America. Situated on the southern Pacific coast of California, this area is known for its world-famous surf, golden beaches, thousands of acres of green parks, and 263 days of annual sunshine. 

San Diego is not just a place for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts, but it's also an ideal city to explore on two wheels. The mild climate and views create perfect conditions for motorcycle riding. We’ve taken the liberty of listing out five of the most reliable, and some of our favorite, motorcycle rentals that would make the San Diego experience better for any and all riders.

1. Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King

The Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King is a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of freedom and adventure. Known for its comfortable riding position and smooth handling, the Road King is perfect for long stretches of highway and scenic drives. Its powerful engine and iconic design make it a favorite among both experienced bikers and those new to motorcycle touring.

The Road King is especially suited to ride along the Pacific Coast Highway, where you can soak in the ocean views and feel the cool sea breeze. Another ideal destination is the historic Cabrillo National Monument. The ride to this park offers winding roads and views of San Diego’s skyline and the surrounding waters, making it a perfect match for the Road King's cruising capabilities. Riding this bike, you'll feel a deep connection to the road and the rich history of both the motorcycle and San Diego.

2. Honda Africa Twin

The Honda Africa Twin is designed for adventure, combining durability with advanced technology to handle both on-road and off-road challenges. This motorcycle is known for its versatility, featuring a powerful twin engine and a lightweight frame that makes it easy to maneuver. Its comfortable seating and suspension system also make it ideal for longer rides, providing a smooth experience even on rough terrains.

For those looking to explore the less-beaten paths of San Diego, the Africa Twin is the perfect companion. It's ideally suited for a day trip to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where its off-road capabilities can be fully used on the park's landscape of desert trails and rocky roads. Another great destination is the Cleveland National Forest, offering a number of trails that show the natural beauty of Southern California—terrain that the Africa Twin can manage with ease.

3. BMW R 1250 GS

The BMW R 1250 GS is an adventure bike that's perfect for tackling any kind of terrain. Its strong engine and advanced technology make it easy and safe to handle, whether you're cruising through the city or hitting off-road trails. It's built to be comfortable for long rides, so you can keep exploring without getting tired.
In San Diego, this bike is ideal for a trip up to Mount Laguna. The roads there are winding and require a bike that's reliable and strong, just like the R 1250 GS. For a different kind of ride, take it downtown to the historic Gaslamp Quarter. The bike’s handling makes it easy to enjoy the lively streets and cool spots of the city. No matter where you're headed in San Diego, the BMW R 1250 GS is a fantastic choice for an exciting ride.

Got the Bike? Now Find Your Ride

Picking the right motorcycle is half the equation. The other half is knowing where to take it. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours in San Diego led by locals who know the routes to Mount Laguna, the desert roads through Anza-Borrego, and the coastal stretches most visitors never find. Whether you're renting an Africa Twin for off-road adventure or a Road King for a coastal cruise, a guided tour pairs you with someone who already has the route figured out.

4. KTM 390 Duke

The KTM 390 Duke is a great choice for city riding because of its lightweight design and easy handling. It has a strong engine that makes it quick and responsive, perfect for navigating busy streets. The bike is also comfortable, making it ideal for both short trips around town and longer rides along scenic routes.

In San Diego, the KTM 390 Duke is perfect for exploring lively neighborhoods like Little Italy or cruising by the waterfront. You can also take it for a relaxing ride along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, enjoying the ocean views with ease. The KTM 390 Duke makes city riding enjoyable and straightforward.

5. Suzuki SV650X

The Suzuki SV650X combines a sleek, retro look with modern performance. It's known for its V-twin engine that provides smooth power, making it both fun and easy to ride. The bike is versatile enough for daily commutes and weekend adventures, thanks to its comfortable seating and reliable performance.

For exploring San Diego, the Suzuki SV650X is well-suited for longer rides like heading up to Palomar Mountain, where its engine power and handling can really shine on the winding roads. It's also a good choice for more relaxed urban outings, such as a visit to Balboa Park. The park's wide roads and beautiful surroundings are perfect for enjoying everything this bike has to offer. Whether you're in the city or the countryside, the Suzuki SV650X offers a balanced and enjoyable riding experience.

Choose a Motorcycle Rental in San Diego from Riders Share

Ready to hit the roads of San Diego on two wheels? Choose your next motorcycle rental from Riders Share. With a wide selection of bikes, ranging from brands like Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW, KTM, and Suzuki, we have the perfect ride for any adventure you're planning, offering easy and convenient rental options to suit your needs. Start your motorcycle journey with us today and experience San Diego like never before!

Heading Out

We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect motorcycle to enhance your San Diego experience. Get ready to rev your engine and discover the beauty and thrill of this city from an entirely new perspective!