Best Sport Touring Motorcycles 2025: Top 10 Ranked by Performance & Comfort

Jan 28, 2026

Sport touring motorcycles sit between sport and full touring bikes, offering longer-range comfort without the added size and weight of a touring platform. For 2025, most models fall between $9,000 and $28,000, with differences in power, comfort, fuel range, and onboard technology depending on how far and how often you ride. In this blog, we break down the 10 best sport touring motorcycles for 2025 and how they compare across those factors.

What Is the Difference Between Sport Touring and Touring Motorcycles?

When riders talk about sport touring vs. touring motorcycle options, they’re usually deciding how much handling they want vs. how much comfort they need. 

Sport touring bikes are lighter overall, usually in the 450 to 550 pound range, and use 17 inch wheels. That lighter setup makes them easier to ride on curved roads while still staying comfortable for longer rides. Touring bikes go the other direction, often weighing 600 to 900 pounds, with large windscreens and bodywork built to keep wind and fatigue to a minimum on long highway rides. A BMW S1000XR (sport touring), at around 501 pounds and 170 horsepower, feels more at home when the road tightens up, while a Honda Gold Wing (touring), at roughly 837 pounds, is designed to cruise highways for hours without feeling demanding.

Adventure motorcycles also enter the conversation for riders comparing sport touring and touring bikes, mainly because they offer added off-road capability through taller suspension, 19 or 21 inch front wheels, and dual-sport tires. They can handle gravel roads and light trails, but that added ground clearance comes with higher seat heights and a more upright feel that isn’t as settled on pavement. For riders who spend most of their time riding on the street, sport touring and touring motorcycles usually provide a better balance of comfort, confidence, and road-focused handling.

Best Sport Touring Motorcycles 2025

• BMW S1000XR
• Ducati Multistrada V4 / V4 S
• Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+
• Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
• Honda NT1100
• Triumph Tiger Sport 660
• Kawasaki Versys 650
• Suzuki V-Strom 650
• Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT

2025 BMW S1000XR

$18,825 MSRP

Let's start with the bike that sets the benchmark for this entire category: The S1000XR. This bike takes BMW's superbike DNA and wraps it in a package you can actually tour on. That 170 horsepower inline-four gives you strong acceleration when you need it, but the electronic suspension (Dynamic ESA) automatically adjusts to road conditions and riding modes, so you're not getting beaten up on long highway stretches. The riding position splits the difference between aggressive sport and upright adventure, making it comfortable for 300+ mile days while still being capable enough to carve canyon roads on the way to your destination.

BMW S1000XR Specs

• Engine: 999cc inline-four
• Horsepower: 170 hp
• Seat Height: 33.1 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 5.2 gallons

2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 / V4 S

$19.995 MSRP

If the BMW is the benchmark, the Multistrada V4 is the bike that keeps pushing that benchmark higher. Ducati's V4 Granturismo engine delivers the same 170 horsepower as the S1000XR, but it does it with more character and a soundtrack that'll make you take the long way home every single time. The radar-assisted adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection reduce fatigue on long interstate stretches. The V4 S adds semi-active Skyhook suspension that reads the road 50 times per second. It's expensive, but if you're spending 10+ hours in the saddle regularly, you'll feel where that money went.

Ducati Multistrada V4 Specs

• Engine: 1158cc V4
• Horsepower: 170 hp
• Seat Height: 33.1-33.9 inches (adjustable)
• Fuel Capacity: 5.8 gallons

2025 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+

$12,599 MSRP

Speaking of radar, the Tracer 9 GT+ brings that same front and rear detection system to a significantly lower price point. Yamaha's CP3 triple-cylinder engine makes 119 horsepower, which sounds modest compared to the liter bikes, but it delivers strong torque that comes on early and stays consistent through the rev range. The adaptive cruise control learns your following distance preferences, and the integrated panniers are included rather than an expensive upcharge. This is the bike for riders who want cutting-edge technology without the premium price tag.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ Specs

• Engine: 890cc inline-triple
• Horsepower: 119 hp
• Seat Height: 33.3-33.8 inches (adjustable)
• Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gallons

Is the Tracer 9 GT+ Worth It?

Yes, if you want radar technology without Ducati pricing. At $12,599, the Tracer 9 GT+ is the only bike under $15,000 with front and rear radar coverage. The adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection match systems on bikes costing $7,000 more. The 119 hp triple delivers strong real-world performance (0-60 in 3.2 seconds), and included 50-liter panniers save you another $1,500. You're getting 90% of the Multistrada V4's functionality for 63% of the price. Skip it only if you need more power (S1000XR's 170 hp) or lower seat height (Tiger Sport 660).

2025 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX

$15,399 MSRP

Now, if you want liter-bike power without the premium price tag, the Ninja 1100SX is where you land. That 134-horsepower inline-four comes from Kawasaki's refined superbike platform, meaning you get strong, predictable power delivery across the rev range. The standard cruise control, traction control, and cornering ABS handle the electronics side, while the included hard-shell panniers mean you can actually pack for a week-long trip. It's not as flashy as the Ducati or as tech-laden as the Tracer, but it's a workhorse that handles long distances reliably.

Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX Specs

• Engine: 1099cc inline-four
• Horsepower: 134 hp
• Seat Height: 32.7 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gallons

2025 Honda NT1100

$11,899 MSRP

Closing out the premium class is Honda's NT1100, and this one's a little different. It makes the least power on this list at 102 horsepower, but hear us out: this bike isn't about outrunning anything. It's about getting you and a passenger comfortably across state lines with luggage, weather protection, and Honda's optional DCT (dual-clutch transmission) that lets you shift manually or let the bike handle it in traffic. The integrated luggage is spacious, the windscreen is adjustable without tools, and the build quality is classic Honda. This is the bike your friends will call boring until they realize you just rode 250 miles in a day without complaining once.

Honda NT1100 Specs

• Engine: 1084cc parallel-twin
• Horsepower: 102 hp
• Seat Height: 32.3 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 5.4 gallons

2025 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

$9,695 MSRP

Let's shift gears to the middleweights, where you're trading raw power for better handling and lower running costs. The Tiger Sport 660 is Triumph's entry point into sport touring, built around their 660cc inline-triple that makes 81 horsepower. That's not going to overwhelm you, but it's more than enough for real-world riding, and the low seat height (32.9 inches) makes it accessible for shorter riders who get shut out of most sport tourers. It's nimble in tight mountain roads, uses less fuel compared to the liter bikes, and at $9,695, it's one of the most affordable bikes on this entire list. Perfect first sport tourer or second bike for riders who already have something bigger in the garage.

Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Specs

• Engine: 660cc inline-triple
• Horsepower: 81 hp
• Seat Height: 32.9 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 4.4 gallons

2025 Kawasaki Versys 650

$10,399 MSRP

The Versys 650 has been Kawasaki's dependable sport tourer for over a decade, and there's a reason it keeps showing up on these lists. That 649cc parallel-twin makes 69 horsepower, which sounds modest on paper but provides plenty of real-world capability thanks to strong low and midrange torque. The upright seating position and windscreen provide good weather protection, and at $10,399, you're getting a lot of capability for the money. Plus, older models are everywhere if you want to save even more.

Kawasaki Versys 650 Specs

• Engine: 649cc parallel-twin
• Horsepower: 69 hp
• Seat Height: 33.3 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gallons

2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650

$9,299 MSRP

Rounding out the middleweights is the Suzuki V-Strom 650, which competes directly with the Versys but leans slightly more toward adventure styling. The 645cc V-twin makes 71 horsepower, nearly identical to the Kawasaki, but delivers it with a different character. What sets the V-Strom apart is Suzuki's track record for reliability. Owners routinely put 50,000+ miles on these bikes with nothing but oil changes and tires. The ergonomics favor taller riders, and while it's not the most exciting bike here, it's probably the most rational choice if you're looking for a long-term keeper that won't drain your wallet in maintenance.

Suzuki V-Strom 650 Specs

• Engine: 645cc V-twin
• Horsepower: 71 hp
• Seat Height: 33.1 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gallons

2025 Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE LT

$19,499 MSRP

Now we get into the true long-distance heavy hitter. The Versys 1100 SE LT, the beloved long distance motorcycle, is built for riders who measure trips in days, not hours. That 1099cc inline-four makes 133 horsepower, giving you passing power even when fully loaded with luggage and a passenger. The 5.5-gallon tank delivers 200+ mile range between fill-ups, meaning you're stopping for food before you're stopping for gas. The SE LT trim adds electronic suspension, cornering lights, and factory panniers that are genuinely spacious. It's tall (seat height starts at 33.5 inches), so shorter riders need to try before they buy, but for covering long interstate miles with comfort and capability, it's hard to beat.

Kawasaki Versys 1100 Specs

• Engine: 1099cc inline-four
• Horsepower: 133 hp
• Seat Height: 33.5-34.6 inches (adjustable)
• Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gallons

2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650

$9,299 MSRP

Rounding out the middleweights is the Suzuki V-Strom 650, which competes directly with the Versys but leans slightly more toward adventure styling. The 645cc V-twin makes 71 horsepower, nearly identical to the Kawasaki, but delivers it with a different character. What sets the V-Strom apart is Suzuki's track record for reliability. Owners routinely put 50,000+ miles on these bikes with nothing but oil changes and tires. The ergonomics favor taller riders, and while it's not the most exciting bike here, it's probably the most rational choice if you're looking for a long-term keeper that won't drain your wallet in maintenance.

Suzuki V-Strom 650 Specs

• Engine: 645cc V-twin
• Horsepower: 71 hp
• Seat Height: 33.1 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gallons

2025 Sport Touring Motorcycle Specs Comparison

Premium Sport Tourers ($17,000+)

BMW S1000XR ($17,995)

• 170 hp / 83 lb-ft
• 501 lbs / 33.5 in seat / 5.0 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: No

Ducati Multistrada V4 ($19,995)

• 170 hp / 92 lb-ft
• 529 lbs / 33.1-33.9 in seat / 5.8 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: Yes

BMW R 1250 RT ($24,495)

• 136 hp / 105 lb-ft
• 615 lbs / 31.7 in seat / 6.6 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: Yes

Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE LT+ ($19,499)

• 133 hp / 82 lb-ft
• 566 lbs / 33.5-34.6 in seat / 5.5 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: No

Mid-Range Sport Tourers ($12,000-$15,000)

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ ($12,599)

• 119 hp / 69 lb-ft
• 474 lbs / 33.3-33.8 in seat / 5.0 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: Yes

Triumph Tiger Sport 800 ($12,495)

• 113 hp / 62 lb-ft
• 472 lbs / 32.8 in seat / 4.9 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: No

Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX ($13,699)

• 134 hp / 83 lb-ft
• 516 lbs / 32.3 in seat / 5.0 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: No

Honda NT1100 ($14,499)

• 102 hp / 77 lb-ft
• 549 lbs / 32.3 in seat / 5.4 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: No

Budget Sport Tourers (Under $11,000)

Triumph Tiger Sport 660 ($9,695)

• 81 hp / 47 lb-ft
• 454 lbs / 32.9 in seat / 4.4 gal
• Cruise: Yes / Radar: No

Kawasaki Versys 650 ($10,399)

• 69 hp / 47 lb-ft
• 471 lbs / 33.3 in seat / 5.5 gal
• Cruise: No / Radar: No

Suzuki V-Strom 650 ($9,299)

• 71 hp / 47 lb-ft
• 471 lbs / 33.1 in seat / 5.3 gal
• Cruise: No / Radar: No

Best Budget Sport Touring Motorcycles

• Triumph Tiger Sport 660: $9,695
• Suzuki V-Strom 650: $9,299

The Tiger Sport 660 and V-Strom 650 deliver capable sport touring without breaking the bank. The Triumph offers more power (81 hp vs 71 hp) and modern electronics including a quickshifter and cornering ABS, while the Suzuki offers legendary reliability and a larger fuel tank for extended range.

Best Premium Sport Touring Motorcycles

• BMW S1000XR: $17,995
• Ducati Multistrada V4 S: $28,305

The S1000XR and Multistrada V4 S sit at the top of the sport touring motorcycles 2025 lineup. The BMW delivers superbike-level performance in a comfortable touring package, while the Ducati adds radar-assisted safety systems and semi-active suspension for riders who want the best technology available.

Best Two-Up Sport Touring Motorcycles

• BMW R 1250 RT: $24,495
• Honda NT1100: $14,499

The R 1250 RT and NT1100 are built for carrying passengers in comfort. The BMW offers comprehensive touring features including a massive adjustable windscreen, integrated luggage, and radar cruise control. The Honda provides solid value with optional DCT automatic transmission that eliminates clutch work in traffic.

Sport Touring Motorcycles 2025 Price Ranges

Budget (Under $11,000)

• Suzuki V-Strom 650: $9,299
• Triumph Tiger Sport 660: $9,695
• Kawasaki Versys 650: $10,399

Mid-Range ($12,000-$15,000)

• Triumph Tiger Sport 800: $12,495
• Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+: $12,599
• Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX: $13,699
• Honda NT1100: $14,499

Premium ($17,000+)

• BMW S1000XR: $17,995
• Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE LT+: $19,499
• Ducati Multistrada V4: $19,995
• BMW R 1250 RT: $24,495
• Ducati Multistrada V4 S: $28,305

Rent a Sport-Touring Motorcycle Before You Buy

Not sure which sport-touring bike you actually want to own? A sport-touring motorcycle rental lets you spend real time with the bikes you’re considering before committing to one. With Riders Share, you can compare models, check pricing for your dates, and choose pickup or delivery where you’ll be staying. Take the bike out for a full day or a weekend and see how it fits your riding style, comfort, and expectations. If you’re thinking about buying a sport-touring motorcycle, renting first is the smartest way to make the call. Start browsing available sport-touring motorcycle rentals today! 

Sport Touring Motorcycle FAQ

Still have questions? These are the things riders usually ask about comfort, features, and long rides.

What is the best sport touring motorcycle for long trips?

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT handles long trips best. The 5.5-gallon tank delivers 240+ miles between stops, electronic suspension auto-adjusts for luggage weight, and included 60-liter panniers hold a week of gear. The 133 hp engine provides strong passing power when loaded. If budget allows, the Ducati Multistrada V4 adds radar cruise control that reduces fatigue on 500+ mile days. For value, the Honda NT1100 with DCT eliminates clutch work in traffic while delivering Honda reliability.

Do sport touring bikes have cruise control? 

Six bikes include standard cruise control: BMW S1000XR, Ducati Multistrada V4, Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+, Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, Honda NT1100, and Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT. The Ducati and Yamaha offer radar-based adaptive cruise that adjusts speed for traffic ahead automatically. The three bikes under $11,000 (Tiger Sport 660, Versys 650, V-Strom 650) don't offer cruise control, which matters on regular interstate rides over 200 miles.

Which sport touring bike is most comfortable?

The Honda NT1100 wins on comfort. The 32.3-inch seat height is the lowest in this class, the windscreen adjusts tool-free across 5.5 inches, and the optional DCT transmission eliminates clutch work in traffic. The 1084cc parallel-twin produces less vibration than inline-fours at highway speeds. If you need more sporting capability, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ offers excellent comfort with radar cruise control and heated grips as standard while maintaining better cornering ability.

Can you ride sport touring motorcycles two-up comfortably?

Yes, but it varies by model. The Versys 1000 SE LT, Honda NT1100, and Ducati Multistrada V4 are designed for two-up touring with supportive passenger seats and strong power (102-170 hp) to handle extra weight. The S1000XR and Tracer 9 GT+ work well for shorter two-up rides under 200 miles. Middleweights (Versys 650, V-Strom 650, Tiger Sport 660) feel underpowered two-up on highway grades with just 69-81 hp. For regular two-up trips over 300 miles, choose a heavyweight with 100+ horsepower.