Spring is in the air, in the northern hemisphere at least, and the open road beckons. Rather than being cooped up in a car, we suggest getting a two-wheeler and making an adventure of the season. Can’t make up your mind on the perfect companion for the motorcycle road trip? Here’s our pick of eight two-wheelers for the little adventure.
Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
We start with the Harley Davidson Low Rider S. The newest addition to the S Series by Harley Davidson is a more subdued mean machine with the bad-boy looks. Fitted with the the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110 engine —the most powerful by Harley Davidson — a two-cylinder V-twin engine, this is a pretty powerful machine. With 159 N.M of torque at 3,500 rpm and a heavy duty clutch, this classy custom cruiser is the way to go.
The Harley-Davidson Low Rider S starts from €19,290 via www.harley-davidson.com
Honda CB500F 2016
Next up, is the Honda CB500F 2016. With an adjustable front fork and brake lever, this motorcycle is suitable for those unfamiliar with bikes. Compliant with Europe’s A2 licensing category, this motorcycle is fitted with a decent sized fuel tank and LED lights as well as a masculine design. The only drawback of the machine, which you can’t tell from this image, is that it won’t be as comfortable to ride with a passenger.
The Honda CB500F comes at €5,599 via http://powersports.honda.com
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT
The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT oozes sportiness in its lightweight design fitted with a remarkable 173bhp engine and decent mechanics. Its 23-liter tank proves handy in Sport mode – one of its three ride modes. Along with high-end electronics, the KTM also stands out for an innovative semi-active suspension system. Press reports indicate that the passenger option is comfortable and reasonable, making it a proper touring bike.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT starts at around €18,200 via www.ktm.com
Aprilia CAPONORD 1200 Rally
Aprilia’s new Aprilia Caponord 1200 Rally marks a more versatile model than any of its predecessors coming from the Italian bike master. Not only does it have a lively engine but that engine’s handling and the bike’s overall comfort has been boosted too. The compact and practical saddlebag cases are supplied as standard, though a rear mudguard and centerstand aren’t included in the standard package.
The Aprilia Caponord 1200 Rally comes priced from €16,499 via www.apriliausa.com
BMW R 1200 GS Triple Black
The famous R1200 GS is back with the BMW R1200 GS Triple Black – a special edition model with a black finish and cross spoke wheels. Being dark, sleek and mean with a four-stroke twin-cylinder engine, makes this an adventure motorcycle with a great handle on all kinds of roads and tracks.
The BMW R1200 GS Triple Black has an asking price of €16,575.
Honda NC750X 2016
The Honda NC750X 2016 gets a facelift with a rugged style, making it a great open road model for the wayward adventurer. It also has a refined 750cc twin-cylinder engine, LED lights, an optimized front fork, and optional Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). For the rider it also features a comfortable seat, wide handlebars and plenty of storage space.
The Honda NC750X 2016 places at $8,530 to $9,436 for the DCT model (€7,499 to €8,299) via www.honda.co.uk
Triumph Tiger Explorer Xca
A Triumph Tiger Explorer Xca is the all-terrain adaptable bike for any distance, with its modern assertive design and high end electronics. Electronic features include semi-active suspension and five different rider modes with different ABS, traction control and throttle maps. With an easy handle and pleasant drive, this is the offroad transcontinental explorer that is perfect spec-wise, while not being particularly overpriced for a bike of this kind.
The Triumph Tiger Explorer Xca goes at €19,700 via www.triumphmotorcycles.com
Ducati Hypermotard 939
The Ducati Hypermotard 939 2016 is for the power of the ride. With a 937cc twin-cylinder engine with 113hp, the Hypermotard 939 comes with three-level ABS, eight levels of Ducati Traction Control and three rider modes. Although, the SP version has higher-spec features and improved handling for a more comfortable ride – thanks to the effective suspension system.
The Ducati Hypermotard 939 2016 goes at approx. €11,990 for the Standard model (www.ducatiusa.com) or €15,490 for the SP (www.ducatiusa.com).
This story was written in-house, based on a list created by the AFP
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