Suzuki GSX-S1000F
Because it’s a blend of sport and touring, some sport touring motorcycles are heavily weighted toward sport. That’s the case for the Suzuki GSX-S1000F. Based on the 2005 to 2008 GSX-R1000, it’s meant to go fast. Really fast. That’s what you get when you put 145 horsepower in a bike that only weighs 472 pounds dry. It’s nimble and responsive, and a thrill to put through its paces.
Suzuki knows that most people don’t push the limits…too often. So they’ve made the GSX-S1000F more street-friendly than its mentor. The steering rake is a little taller to get you a little more upright. KYB suspension dampens the road feel, and ABS gives you even better riding response. You don’t get the saddlebags this time, though.
Kawasaki Z1000
Different strokes for different folks, and this time it includes what Kawasaki calls an “urban streetfighter” look. It’s a stripped-down motorcycle without fairings. It insinuates a dual-purpose biking experience. Its Showa SFF-BP suspension gives better damping for a smooth ride, and the compact frame length means the rider sits more vertical than other sport touring motorcycles.
You’ll have a ton of fun on this motorcycle still. Its 1043cc 4-cylinder engine pushes 128 horsepower and screams to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds.
Suzuki Hayabusa
Doesn’t it feel slightly ridiculous to have the Suzuki Hayabusa on a sport touring motorcycle list? It seems like it diminishes its abilities. But the fact is that the Hayabusa fits the build quite well. With 197 horsepower coming from its 1340cc engine, it’s one of the fastest street legal motorcycles. And it looks like you need a long reach to ride it comfortably.
But it’s a great touring bike too. That long reach isn’t awkward at all, and is more comfortable than a GSX-R by far. The longer wheelbase means better suspension damping too. And if you ride responsibly, you could tickle the 40 mpg-mark with ease.
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