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Best Beginner Motorcycles 2022

Choosing a new motorcycle is a big decision, especially if you’re new to riding. Price, style, and performance all come into account. But there are considerations you should have in mind that might not be obvious too. Have you thought about how ride position might affect your ability to log enough comfortable hours in the saddle to become proficient? What about versatility? Do you know for sure you don’t want to hit up a light trail now and then? How about potential maintenance costs? Or maybe you want a bike you can learn to wrench on yourself?

Related: Learn How To Ride A Motorcycle With Discover The Ride

We could go on and on. Instead, we’ve selected 13 streetbikes with broad beginner appeal in a variety of styles to help get you started. That means lower price points, manageable performance specs, and fairly neutral ergonomics all around. Since the market is currently flush with entry-level machines, some of these bikes represent an entire class of motorcycles to consider. Others are calibrated to more specific ride styles and tastes. Either way, there’s something for everyone new to two-wheels below. Check out our Motorcycle Riding Tips for added insight. Also read the Best Motorcycles For Beginner And New Riders article for more new tips.

BMW style at an entry-level price—the G 310 GS.

BMW style at an entry-level price—the G 310 GS. (BMW Motorrad/)

BMW G 310 GS

The BMW G 310 GS takes after the massively popular GS line of adventure bikes in BMW’s stable, but tones the package down in this fantastic entry-point machine. It’s a head-turning of a motorcycle in its own right, carrying a 313cc single and weighing in at a respectable 386 pounds. Seat height is an approachable 32.8 inches with a low 32.3 seat height available. It features BMW Motorrad ABS, ride-by-wire, adjustable levers, and a luggage carrier also. The seating position is nice and neutral and our testers in the past have described it as “perfect” for new riders.

The Honda CB500X is comfortable and capable and just enough fun to want to ride all the time.

The Honda CB500X is comfortable and capable and just enough fun to want to ride all the time. (Honda/)

Honda CB500X

The CB500X utilizes the same 491cc twin engine as you’ll find in the Rebel 500, but the adventure package is extraordinarily friendly to new riders. The cockpit is plush and all-day comfortable, the power output mellow and progressive, while the transmission is smooth as butter. Braking is reliable, there’s wind protection, the opportunity to upgrade to make it better suited for longer-range rides, and a 32.8-inch seat height that fits a broad variety of riders. It’s just fun enough to want to ride as often as possible without being too much bike for a rider still learning the ropes.

Honda’s Rebel 500 has a cool cruiser look and a versatile-enough power platform to handle any in-town duty.

Honda’s Rebel 500 has a cool cruiser look and a versatile-enough power platform to handle any in-town duty. (Honda/)

Honda Rebel 500

The Honda Rebel 500 is a phenomenal starter machine if you’re looking for a ride with cruiser styling. The Rebel 500 provides better engine output than the prior two machines, but is still gentle enough to be forgiving to a new rider. It’s cockpit is narrow and the 27.2-inch seat low enough to the ground to accommodate riders with short inseams. The transmission is super smooth and recent suspension upgrades make the bike even more plush-feeling on the road. This platform is ripe for easy customization too. The ABS-equipped version prices at $6,699, but it’s also likely to be a bike you’ll enjoy even after you’ve gotten comfortable with the basics of riding, so it’ll be money well spent.

The Honda Rebel 300 is easygoing and totally approachable for new riders.

The Honda Rebel 300 is easygoing and totally approachable for new riders. (Honda/)

Honda Rebel 300

You could also opt for the $4,999 Honda Rebel 300 ABS, which is a bit lighter and more docile in terms of performance. It’s easier on the wallet than the 500 and a little more than 40 pounds lighter, powered by a 286cc single engine. It comes with the same seat height and even narrower cockpit than the 500, so is a great choice for smaller riders, or riders who want to take the learning process slow on an approachable machine.

Related: Learning, Or Relearning, Good Riding Skills

An approachable sportbike, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 would make a great first ride.

An approachable sportbike, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 would make a great first ride. (Kawasaki/)

Kawasaki Ninja 400

Entry-level sportbikes are an extremely popular option, and for good reason, they’re an absolute blast. The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a leader in the segment, which includes similar options from the likes of Honda, KTM, Yamaha, and Suzuki. The 400 is one of the largest-displacement machines in this arena with its 399cc inline-twin engine, but it’s manners are perfectly suited to the new rider. Handling is effortless, power delivery is manageable, and the bike is fairly comfortable in the saddle even over long stretches.

The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a tidy little package that a new rider will love.

The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a tidy little package that a new rider will love. (Kawasaki/)

Kawasaki Versys-X 300

Adventure-style bikes are great for beginners comfortable with a little taller seat height, and the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is one of the best models in this growing segment. Power delivery is manageable, but the bike is also quite capable of keeping up with highway traffic if needed. The egros are upright and neutral, handling is sharp and effortless, and the riding possibilities are much broader than the first three bikes on the list because the Versys-X 300 can easily handle light off-road duty. Or you can fit some of Kawasaki’s accessory luggage to the back and head out for a long weekend.

We found the Kawasaki Z400 to be a phenomenal first bike.

We found the Kawasaki Z400 to be a phenomenal first bike. (Kawasaki/)

Kawasaki Z400 ABS

Kawasaki’s 399cc parallel twin also appears in the Z400, a sharply designed naked that provides the same lively mill as the Ninja 400, but with more comfortable ergos. It’s a little lighter than the Ninja and feels fully composed on the road. It makes riding fun for experienced riders while still being an incredible learning tool for new riders. When we first met the Z900 back in 2019, we were amazed at how well-suited this machine was for the beginner in all respects, from its power delivery to its transmission, it’s suspension to its road feel and handling.

The KTM 390 Adventure is fantastic for new riders who want some up-spec amenities and off-road capability.

The KTM 390 Adventure is fantastic for new riders who want some up-spec amenities and off-road capability. (KTM/)

KTM 390 Adventure

The KTM 390 Adventure is another exceptional machine for the beginner. It packs a number of features typically found on higher-spec bikes like traction control, cornering ABS, and a variety of ride modes that help to increase the rider’s safety in different ride conditions. The cockpit is comfortable, the power output from the 373cc single is notable among this crop of machines, and elements like the TFT display make this bike a compelling option for new riders who appreciate contemporary tech. It starts at $6,599, so a little on the steep side in this rundown, but, as with the Versys-X 300, you’ll get an adaptable machine that opens up more than just paved road routes on your motorcycle journey.

For retro looks, simple mechanics, and a chill ride look no further than the Royal Enfield Meteor.

For retro looks, simple mechanics, and a chill ride look no further than the Royal Enfield Meteor. (Royal Enfield/)

Royal Enfield Meteor

The Royal Enfield Meteor is another sub-$5,000 that has some of the same appeal as the Yamaha MT-03, but with completely different styling. It’s a mechanically simple machine, powered by an air/oil-cooled 349cc single. This one’s definitely primed for the rider who wants to learn to perform at-home maintenance. On the road performance is mellow, making it extremely accessible to riders who want to take it easy on surface streets as they gain riding experience. Styling is nostalgic and clean, and there are a broad variety of colorways to choose from. There are also a number of accessory upgrades available if you find you need more wind protection or carrying capacity.

2022 Suzuki DR-Z400S.

2022 Suzuki DR-Z400S. (Suzuki/)

Suzuki DR-Z400S

The Suzuki DR-Z400S is the latest version of the brand’s popular dual sport platform, and is a great motorcycle if you know you want to blend on and off-road riding. It features a 398cc liquid-cooled single and a narrow build that will be very familiar if you’ve ever been on a dirt bike. It’s lightweight and easy to handle and built simply enough for new riders to learn the basics in the garage. The only issue is that some shorter riders might not feel comfortable right away on the 36.8-inch-tall seat.

Sportbike looks in a manageable package, the Suzuki GSX250R would be a fantastic option for a beginner.

Sportbike looks in a manageable package, the Suzuki GSX250R would be a fantastic option for a beginner. (Suzuki/)

Suzuki GSX250R

One of the most approachable beginner sportbikes from a power output point of view is the Suzuki GSX250R. The 248cc twin is mellow and compliant, the handling is intuitive, and the looks align with the larger family of Suzuki sportbikes. New, it only priced at $4,599 so if you find a used version a few years old, you’ll have yourself quite the deal

Yamaha’s MT-03 is a leader among low-displacement, naked motorcycles.

Yamaha’s MT-03 is a leader among low-displacement, naked motorcycles. (Yamaha/)

Yamaha MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03 is great for a lot of reasons. It’s $4,799 off the showroom floor, is lightweight, and has a surprisingly lively 321cc parallel-twin engine, meaning plenty of power for a newbie and light, responsive handling. The upright ergos and comfortable cockpit allow you to focus on your ride inputs rather than finding a manageable way to sit, and the looks align with the full family of larger MT’s in Yamaha’s stable. Even though its styling is somewhat futuristic, the mechanics are straightforward so it’s well suited to learning basic at-home maintenance. Plus, it’s a really fun machine that will stoke your excitement to ride every time you go out. This model also serves as a good example for a whole segment of lower-displacement, naked motorcycles. Comparable options are available from Honda, Kawasaki (see the Z400 above), BMW, KTM, and Husqvarna among others.

For pure dual sport bliss, check out the Yamaha XT250.

For pure dual sport bliss, check out the Yamaha XT250. (Yamaha/)

Yamaha XT250

The Yamaha XT250 is another fantastic dual-sport option, particularly if the seat height and engine size of the DR-Z400 seemed a bit much. This nimble machine weighs just 291 pounds, features a 249cc air-cooled single, and has a 31.9-inch seat height. It’s another of the bikes that inspires confidence to wrench, and its go-anywhere design will take you on and off-road with ease. It’s a little underpowered for serious highway travel, but as an around-town commuter, especially in more rural areas of the country, the XT250 is a new-rider machine that’s hard to beat.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Best Motorcycles for Long-Distance Two-Up Riding 2022

Two-up rides are a whole different kind of motorcycle adventure, especially if you plan to log a respectable amount of miles. Without the right bike, long touring rides with a passenger are taxing, frustrating, uncomfortable, and a quick way to ensure your passenger never hops on for another ride again. With the right cruiser though, they can be an incredible way to share the magic of the road together. So if a long-distance, two-up tour is on your to-do list this year, be sure to set out on one of the 10 streetbikes below. Also read the Best Motorcycles for Two-Up Riding 2021 and Best Motorcycles For Two-Up Riding articles for added touring-friendly insight.

The OG two-up bike, the Honda Gold Wing Tour makes long-range rides with a passenger a luxurious experience.

The OG two-up bike, the Honda Gold Wing Tour makes long-range rides with a passenger a luxurious experience. (Honda/)

Honda Gold Wing Tour

The Honda Gold Wing Tour is a no-brainer if you are looking for a phenomenal blend of comfort, convenience, and capability. Its smooth-as-butter 1,833cc six-cylinder mill, sophisticated chassis, capable braking package, and generous carrying capacity are just the tip of the iceberg. The Gold Wing Tour packs a treasure trove of electronic amenities aimed at improving safety and performance and an impressive trim selection that allows riders to select an automatic dual-clutch transmission version, automatic DCT with airbag protection, or standard six-speed manual transmission.

Yamaha’s Star Venture is a phenomenal two-up machine.

Yamaha’s Star Venture is a phenomenal two-up machine. (Yamaha/)

Yamaha Star Venture

Yamaha’s answer to the Gold Wing is the air-cooled 1,845cc V-twin-powered Star Venture. While it may be mechanically simpler in a number of ways compared to the Honda, you can still expect an impressive selection of creature comforts aimed to make long hauls in the saddle a joy for you and your passenger. Touches like heated seats, heated grips, dual-zone audio control for the multifeatured infotainment system, electronic luggage locks, an alarmed security system, and more make the Star Venture a luxurious ride, no matter the destination.

Harley’s Ultra Limited is as fine a two-up machine as you’ll find.

Harley’s Ultra Limited is as fine a two-up machine as you’ll find. (Harley-Davidson/)

Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited

Harley-Davidson has a full line of Grand American Touring models, but the Ultra Limited is one of the best-suited for two-up rides straight off the showroom floor. The massive Milwaukee-114 V-twin engine is the biggest you can get in a standard H-D Touring bike, the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system is fully decked, and the plush passenger seating setup will allow your companion to take in the sights all day long. The large, fork-mounted fairing provides a calm cockpit, and integrated luggage makes it easy to leave home for long stretches.

The BMW K 1600 GTL is a popular option for riders who often head out with a passenger.

The BMW K 1600 GTL is a popular option for riders who often head out with a passenger. (BMW Motorrad/)

BMW K 1600 GTL

The 1,649cc, six-cylinder K 1600 GTL is a longtime favorite of touring riders, and for good reason. The platform is incredibly smooth, from its power output to the way the dynamic ESA soaks up road imperfections. It has all the creature comforts you and your passenger need to handle a bevy of different ride conditions, and an elegant and effective design that effortlessly cuts through the air. Plus, if you like the base platform, you can upgrade to get even more out of your machine with the K 1600 GTL Grand America.

The Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS is a proven touring machine that is surprisingly great on two-up rides.

The Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS is a proven touring machine that is surprisingly great on two-up rides. (Kawasaki/)

Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS

The Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS has power, has handling, and has the track record of being a beloved long-range touring bike. In standard trim, the 1,352cc inline-four-powered motorcycle doesn’t immediately scream “two-up” like other bikes on this list, but add the Kawasaki top case and passenger backrest and suddenly you have a machine that’s very accommodating for two riders. It won’t come with all the creature comforts as some of the other machines we’ve listed, but it has one of the most approachable price tags of the bunch and opens the door to more sporting solo rides when two-up isn’t on the menu.

The Indian Roadmaster Limited is a gorgeous machine.

The Indian Roadmaster Limited is a gorgeous machine. (Indian Motorcycles/)

Indian Motorcycles Roadmaster Limited

The Indian Roadmaster Limited is a gorgeous machine with a big ol’ 1,890cc V-twin that provides smooth, powerful pull at just about any point in the rev range. It’s decked with luggage, has a sophisticated Ride Command touchscreen display and full-feature infotainment system, plush seating for rider and passenger, along with all the current electronic aids you’ll need to have a safe, comfortable ride.

Turn heads in style with the BMW R 18 Transcontinental.

Turn heads in style with the BMW R 18 Transcontinental. (BMW Motorrad/)

BMW R 18 Transcontinental

As the name suggests, the BMW R 18 Transcontinental is designed to tackle miles and miles of road without missing a beat. The 1,802cc boxer twin is one of the newest machines in this particular segment, and its classic styling combined with contemporary amenities make this one of the most head-turning machines on the list. It has a full suite of electronic ride aids, state-of-the-art cockpit, super cozy seating, advanced wind deflection solutions, and a low-maintenance shaft drive. BMW also offers loads of upgrades and personalization options.

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited is one of its best two-up options in its line.

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited is one of its best two-up options in its line. (Harley-Davidson/)

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited is the second from the Bar & Shield brand and closely resembles the slightly more pricey Ultra Limited. It has all the essential bells and whistles for long-range two-up rides, including integrated luggage, plush seating, ample wind protection, and a powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine. Linked Brembo braking kit and a dialed infotainment setup sweeten the deal, and styling is unmistakably Harley.

The Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager is classically styled and comfortable.

The Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager is classically styled and comfortable. (Kawasaki/)

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS

Kawasaki’s Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS packs a 1,700cc V-twin, electronic cruise control, K-ACT ABS braking system, plenty of cargo space, and a somewhat bare but effective infotainment setup. It doesn’t feature the higher-spec TFT instrument panel as many of the other machines on this list, but the stripped-down design has its own type of appeal, especially as a complement to the classic aesthetic of the machine as a whole.

The Triumph Speedmaster is a great two-up bike with a few upgrades.

The Triumph Speedmaster is a great two-up bike with a few upgrades. (Triumph/)

Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster

The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster isn’t quite as formidable as the other bikes on the list, but with the accessory passenger backrest, side bags, and windscreen added to the package it quickly becomes an appealing two-up machine. The torquey 1,200cc twin can easily carry the added weight of a passenger, and the styling is elegant and eye-catching. Plus, the price tag, even with the added cost of a few upgrades, is still under that of the other bikes on the list.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

2022 Triumph Speed Twin Review

Triumph Motorcycles specializes in manufacturing new motorcycles that ride pleasingly like old ones. The company has mastered the art of preserving the sound, feel, and overall character that make old-school streetbikes so neat, without the need for riders to add engine oil every few weeks. Its 2022 Speed Twin ($12,500) is the latest modern classic to roll off its Hinckley assembly line, and it rides as well as it looks.

Related: 2020 Triumph Speed Twin Review

Few motorcycle manufacturers pair old-school character and modern riding dynamic like Triumph Motorcycles and its Speed Twin.

Few motorcycle manufacturers pair old-school character and modern riding dynamic like Triumph Motorcycles and its Speed Twin. (Joseph Agustin/)

Obviously, we’re big fans of the Speed Twin’s looks. From its oversized and cooling-fin-shod 1,200cc parallel twin to its old-school shaped 3.8-gallon metal fuel tank and dual swept exhaust, it’s a classic standard that’s sure to turn heads. Aside from a couple of cheap fasteners, for example the clutch tension barrel adjuster, the bike’s fit and finish is top-notch. We deeply appreciate Triumph’s attention to detail.

The 2022 Speed Twin is a looker. We love its stance, proportions, and superb fit and finish.

The 2022 Speed Twin is a looker. We love its stance, proportions, and superb fit and finish. (Joseph Agustin/)

Flip the ignition key and thumb the starter button and the Speed Twin settles into a lumpy idle. With its offset engine firing order, the twin’s healthy growl builds excitement but isn’t enough to annoy the neighbors. Throttle response is measured, and we love the bike’s rowdy bark at full song. The last time we dyno tested it (MY2020), the engine was good for nearly 80 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm and 91.4 hp at 6,700 rpm; not bad for a retro-themed standard. Power gets to the 160-series Metzeler Racetec rear tire through a responsive, well-weighted cable-actuated clutch and right-hand-side chain final drive..

The Speed Twin’s 1,200 parallel twin not only looks clean, but it puts out a pleasing spread of torque with a fun-loving sound and character.

The Speed Twin’s 1,200 parallel twin not only looks clean, but it puts out a pleasing spread of torque with a fun-loving sound and character. (Joseph Agustin/)

Lifting the 476-pound Trumpet off its kickstand requires some muscle, but from behind the bars its heft is easier to manage. We appreciate its slim seating position, well-proportioned ergonomics, and low seat height.

Dipping through turns, the Speed Twin impresses with lively handling. Suspension action is nice and plush over rough pavement, but for a bike with this combination of price and handling capability, the suspension should have damping adjustment. Its absence limits how hard the bike can go along low-to-medium-speed backroads.

Plush suspension action and well-proportioned ergonomics make the Speed Twin a comfy bike for urban rides.

Plush suspension action and well-proportioned ergonomics make the Speed Twin a comfy bike for urban rides. (Joseph Agustin/)

A stout pair of Brembo Monoblocks shed speed quickly, and deliver a nice sharp bite for a streetbike, aided and abetted by the notably precise feel of the rear brake. Fixed, always-on ABS mitigates instability during braking. Our only gripe is that the front brake outmatches the capability of the suspension when ridden in a sporting manner.

We like the Speed Twin’s ergonomics, which are a nice balance between sport and comfort.

We like the Speed Twin’s ergonomics, which are a nice balance between sport and comfort. (Joseph Agustin/)

A pair of round-face gauges evoke the past, but included rectangular LCD components inside them display gear position, fuel level, and range metrics. It’s a tasteful setup, but an all-digital dash akin to the Trident 660′s might be better. Round LED turn signals are functional and a nice styling touch, as is the LED taillight. Curiously, however, the Speed Twin still employs a halogen headlamp, which is nowhere near as bright as a modern LED unit.

Instrumentation is tasteful-looking and functional as well with its LCD meters inside each gauge pod.

Instrumentation is tasteful-looking and functional as well with its LCD meters inside each gauge pod. (Joseph Agustin/)

Attractive styling, a functional and charismatic parallel-twin engine, agile handling; the 2022 Speed Twin has a lot going for it. However, for the price it should have fully adjustable suspension and LED lighting. Add these features to an already handsome and enjoyable motorcycle and Triumph would have a truly stunning modern classic on its hands.

The Speed Twin handles more agilely than you’d expect based on its nearly 500-pound fueled curb weight.

The Speed Twin handles more agilely than you’d expect based on its nearly 500-pound fueled curb weight. (Joseph Agustin/)

Gear Box

Helmet: Arai Signet-X

Jacket: Rev’It Crossroads

Pant: Rev’It Jackson SK

Gloves: Racer Tour FHH

Boots: TCX Jupiter 4 Gore-Tex

Although we appreciate its shape, the halogen headlamp is a miss for this $12,500 Speed Twin.

Although we appreciate its shape, the halogen headlamp is a miss for this $12,500 Speed Twin. (Joseph Agustin/)

2022 Triumph Speed Twin Technical Specifications and Price

PRICE $12,500 as tested
ENGINE 1,200cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 8-valve
BORE x STROKE 97.6 x 80.0mm
COMPRESSION RATIO 12.1:1
FUEL DELIVERY Fuel injection w/ ride-by-wire
CLUTCH Wet, multiplate slipper clutch; cable actuation
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE 6-speed/chain
FRAME Tubular steel w/ aluminum cradles, cast aluminum swingarm
FRONT SUSPENSION 43mm fork; 4.7 in. travel
REAR SUSPENSION Hydraulic shock, spring preload adjustable; 4.7 in. travel
FRONT BRAKES Radial-mount opposed 4-piston Monoblock calipers, dual 320mm discs w/ ABS
REAR BRAKE 2-piston floating caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS
WHEELS, FRONT/REAR Cast aluminum; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 5.0 in.
TIRES, FRONT/REAR Metzeler Racetec; 120/70-17 / 160/60-17
RAKE/TRAIL 22.3°/3.6 in.
WHEELBASE 55.6 in.
SEAT HEIGHT 31.9 in.
FUEL CAPACITY 3.8 gal.
CLAIMED WET WEIGHT 476 lb.
WARRANTY 2 years
AVAILABLE Now
CONTACT triumphmotorcycles.com

Conversely, the brake lights and turn signals are of LED design.

Conversely, the brake lights and turn signals are of LED design. (Joseph Agustin/)

The Speed Twin is well suited for urban and sport riders in low-to-medium-speed turns.

The Speed Twin is well suited for urban and sport riders in low-to-medium-speed turns. (Joseph Agustin/)

A stout pair of Brembos keep speed in check. We appreciate their sharp feel but the brakes overpower the capability of the front suspension.

A stout pair of Brembos keep speed in check. We appreciate their sharp feel but the brakes overpower the capability of the front suspension. (Joseph Agustin/)

The Speed Twin’s saddle is comfortable, plus there’s room for two.

The Speed Twin’s saddle is comfortable, plus there’s room for two. (Joseph Agustin/)

With a couple of fixes (suspension adjustment and an LED headlamp), Triumph would have a modern classic home run with its Speed Twin.

With a couple of fixes (suspension adjustment and an LED headlamp), Triumph would have a modern classic home run with its Speed Twin. (Joseph Agustin/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide First Look Preview

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide in Midnight Crimsom.

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide in Midnight Crimsom. (Harley-Davidson/)

The Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring lineup features some iconic long-range cruisers, and for 2022 one of the most popular, the Street Glide, returns with three new colorways. Riders will be able to choose either Vivid Black, Midnight Crimson, or White Sand Pearl. The starting MSRP for Vivid Black is $22,249. Price bumps up an additional $575 for the other two color options.

It’s been a while since we did a rundown of this long-standing streetbike model, particularly because in recent years it’s also been available as the Street Glide Special, which features a larger engine and higher-spec features.

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide in Vivid Black.

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide in Vivid Black. (Harley-Davidson/)

The standard Street Glide packs a 1,745cc Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-twin capable of producing 93 hp at 5,020 rpm and 111 pound-feet of torque at 3,250 rpm. It utilizes a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission with assist and slip clutch, comes with 49mm Dual Bending Valve fork and lowered, adjustable rear suspension. The Reflex Linked Brembo braking kit hauls the 829-pound machine to a stop and a Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system provides hands-free Bluetooth functionality allowing riders to easily access their tunes, calls, and navigation information.

The floorboards, low-seat height, and upright riding position make the Street Glide a phenomenal long-range bike, and integrated hard luggage make it easy to pack for a weekend away. The massive range of accessory add-ons mean riders can easily customize the Street Glide for more passenger comfort, better wind protection, and more sophisticated performance characteristics. One package that riders often select is the RDRS Safety Enhancements suite, which uses information gleaned from chassis, brake, and engine control systems to improve safety and stability in a variety of difficult riding scenarios.

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide in White Sand Pearl.

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide in White Sand Pearl. (Harley-Davidson/)

2022 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Technical Specifications and Price

Price: $22,249
Engine: 1,745cc, air-cooled V-twin; 8 valves
Bore x Stroke: 100.0 x 111.1mm
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Fuel Delivery: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Clutch: Wet, multiplate
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/belt
Frame: Mild steel tubular
Front Suspension: 49mm Dual Bending Valve fork; 4.6 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Low, hand-adjustable; 2.1 in. travel
Front Brake: 4-piston calipers, dual 300mm floating discs
Rear Brake: 4-piston caliper, 300mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Enforcer II cast aluminum; 19 x 3.5 in./18 x 5.0 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series; 130/60-19 / 180/55-18
Rake/Trail: 26.0°/6.7 in.
Wheelbase: 64.0 in.
Seat Height: 26.1 in. (laden)
Fuel Capacity: 6.0 gal.
Claimed Curb Weight: 829 lb.
Available: 2022
Contact: harley-davidson.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Motorcycles and Hollywood Movies and Films 2022

Steve McQueen, Mert Lawill, and Malcolm Smith are aspirational motorcycle racers from Hollywood history.

Steve McQueen, Mert Lawill, and Malcolm Smith are aspirational motorcycle racers from Hollywood history. (Photos Courtesy of Bruce Brown Films, LLC/)

People have been creating top 10 lists for years proffering opinions as to what the best motorcycle movies of all time are. The internet has only further clouded the debate, having granted the hordes—well-informed and otherwise—a soapbox to sound off on the subject. Instead of a “best of” list to add to the morass, I thought it might be more illuminating to explore how the image of motorcycles has evolved over the years in tinsel town, focusing on a handful of Hollywood films that shaped perceptions.

Since the earliest days of motion pictures motorcycles have made appearances. Initially employed merely as props, presented as action devices or comic relief, motorcycles were always an easy add-on to stir up an audience. Plenty of black and white bank heist movies invoked the obligatory cops-on-bikes chase scene.

Related: Coronavirus Quarantine Tips—Watch These Motorcycle Films

Then, in 1953, Hollywood bankrolled a film that placed motorcycles front and center. The Wild One, starring Marlon Brando, blasted onto screens across the country and set the tone for the coming years of how motorcycles and the people who rode them would be regarded. The film was inspired by an article in Life magazine about bikers descending on a small town for a rally. The Hollywood wordsmiths embellished the story, turning it into a sensationalistic movie that had the bikers taking over the town and threatening the moral fabric of its well-heeled citizens. Despite Brando’s pouting good looks, what audiences took away was that motorcyclists were either trouble, or troubled. Teenagers loved it. Parents were alarmed. And Brando began his ascension to stardom. The film is significant in the annals of motorcycling in that it was the first mainstream, studio-backed movie that prominently featured motorcycles—albeit in a somewhat negative light. Motorcycles continued to make their cameos on-screen over the next decade, usually employed as a device to shore up a character’s persona or as a vehicle of danger and/or thrills.

The next significant milestone for motorcycles in the movies came a decade after The Wild One. In 1963, The Great Escape hit theaters. The motorcycle chase sequence of Steve McQueen evading the Nazis on a commandeered Triumph, bounding over the rolling, verdant hills of Germany, culminating with the famous breathtaking leap over the barbed wire border fence, had audiences riveted. (Author’s note: Although McQueen did a majority of the riding, as both himself as well as one of the pursuing Germans, it was Bud Ekins who actually did the jump.) There’s no way to quantify how many people that scene inspired to get on a motorcycle. I was one of them, the sequence instantly putting the motorcycle hook in 5-year-old me. Another was filmmaker Bruce Brown, who was in Japan to promote his surfing film Endless Summer. He went to see the movie and came away thinking, “That looks like fun!”

Motorcycles come of age in the movies. A major actor, a true story. “World’s Fastest Indian” (2005).

Motorcycles come of age in the movies. A major actor, a true story. “World’s Fastest Indian” (2005). (Magnolia Home Entertainment/)

Although McQueen’s daring motorcycle-riding hero performance undid some of the residue negative stereotypes of The Wild One, the movie studios chose to bet on the more sinister aspects of motorcycles to ensure box office, spawning a rash of low-budget B-grade biker films throughout the ‘60s. The Wild Angels, The Born Losers, Hells Angels on Wheels, and The Glory Stompers, to name just a few, were predominantly of the thugs-on-choppers variety, with rudimentary storylines to justify a lot of boozed-induced rebel-rousing. Although crafted for sheer sensationalism, these exploitation films carried antiestablishment themes, inadvertently reflecting the air of rebellion that was sweeping America in response to the Vietnam War. When Peter Fonda’s character, Heavenly Blues in The Wild Angels, delivered the line, “We want to be free to ride our machines without being hassled by The Man,” he seemed to be speaking directly to the first generation of Americans who had become mistrustful of their government. In some circles these films were regarded as relevant social commentary—a viable argument for art imitating life, and vice versa.

This tumultuous decade came to an end with perhaps the most significant dramatic motorcycle movie yet. Easy Rider, a small, independent film opened to astonishing success. The film effectively rewrote the narrative of motorcycle movies by giving us two chopper-riding characters that defied convention: Peter Fonda as the reserved and quiet Captain America, and Dennis Hopper as the impetuous Billy—with a highly memorable cameo by Jack Nicholson. Ironically, these three actors had helped spearhead the exploitation biker movies several years earlier. Easy Rider (read the Captain America – Easy Rider Chopper Goes Up For Auction article) tapped into the disenchantment of an entire generation grappling with the upheaval of the previous decade, giving young audiences authentic and relatable characters. The theme of two men who go looking for an America that is no longer there, perfectly encapsulated the bewilderment permeating the ‘60s. In a radical departure from the shopworn themes of previous biker films, it’s not the unruly actions of the bikers that seal their fate. Rather, rednecks in the deep South unload twin shotgun barrels into the peaceful long-haired protagonists. The film was a box office smash, much to the surprise of studio executives who couldn’t understand why people were paying money to watch long montages of two guys riding choppers while acid rock and folk songs played on the soundtrack.

The success of Easy Rider helped legitimize motorcycles. This was reflected in the network series Then Came Bronson, a TV show about a disillusioned reporter who goes soul-searching on the Sportster left to him by his best friend after he jumps off the Golden Gate Bridge. The series enjoyed modest success in prime time, suggesting motorcycles were finally shedding the bad reputation. That same year, Little Fauss and Big Halsy, starring heartthrob Robert Redford as a freewheeling motorcycle racer brought megastar legitimacy to a motorcycle-themed movie—though it didn’t translate at the box office.

The next and most significant milestone in motorcycle movies was the groundbreaking documentary On Any Sunday. Released in 1971 it remains the high-water mark for motorcycle enthusiasts. Bruce Brown, having had a huge success with his surfing documentary, Endless Summer, and who was inspired to start riding after seeing McQueen’s leap in The Great Escape, was looking to make a new film. He decided to make a movie that presented motorcycles and the people who rode them through a very different lens, showcasing the world of racing and racers. The result was the holy grail of motorcycle documentaries. Again, studio executives were baffled as to why people were flocking to see 90 minutes of endless motorcycle footage. In a fitting serendipity, Brown made the film with Steve McQueen, who had inspired his indoctrination to motorcycles all those years earlier.

Documentaries notwithstanding, in the years since On Any Sunday, there have been only a handful of dramatic movies that employed motorcycles as an essential element. Electra Glide in Blue, about a disillusioned motorcycle cop who undergoes a fateful change of heart, provided a seamless, genuine bond between motorcycle and character. The beautiful and engaging The Motorcycle Diaries and the biographical The World’s Fastest Indian are two examples of films that integrated motorcycles as important dramatic elements, key to the main character’s path in life as opposed to just being add-ons.

Unfortunately there have been huge cinematic misfires (think Torque and Biker Boyz), which effectively took motorcycles back to the tired, overwrought theme of outlaw thuggery. Over the years motorcycles have received some quaint, yet barely audible lip service in films like Top Gun, The Matrix, No Time to Die, Mission Impossible, etc., all of which fell back on the motorcycle-as-action prop thinking of yesteryear—with increasingly escalating, unrealistic CGI stunts that have become embarrassingly cartoonistic, essentially overlooking the inherent excitement available to straight ahead riding at speed sans all the artificial fluff (i.e., think of the realism of the car chase in Bullitt versus the unrealistic stunts in the Fast and Furious franchise). On television, Sons of Anarchy managed to dust off and resuscitate the corpse of biker gang stereotypes to decent success, while at the movies, motorcycles were reduced to comic relief as a silly metaphor of escape by pathetic men suffering midlife crisis in Wild Hogs, the movie hardly warranting mention.

Motorcycles go bubblegum on “Happy Days” (1976).

Motorcycles go bubblegum on “Happy Days” (1976). (Pinterest/)

Through it all, motorcycles have maintained a kind of mystique among moviegoers. Although still representing danger and thrills, freedom and individualism, they have certainly seen an easing off of the negative stereotype, no longer arbitrarily associated with lawlessness. After all, Marcus Welby, M.D. had a motorcycle-riding doctor/son, making house calls on a Honda Scrambler. But when the Fonze rode into primetime on his Triumph on world I knew the revolution was over. Bikes had finally emerged from that cloud of misrepresentation set in motion by Marlon way back when.

Over the years there have been hundreds of films, documentaries, and TV shows featuring motorcycles, with but a handful that have captured any genuine sense of what motorcycles are all about. Eventually someone is going to make a dramatic film that effectively captures the essence of the bond between rider and motorcycle, weaving the magic that comes with being up on two wheels, untethered, into a compelling storyline with the motorcycle truly integrated as a genuine character, a vehicle for the main protagonist’s journey. Now that would truly be a wild one.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

2022 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 First Look Preview

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 in Gunship Gray.

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 in Gunship Gray. (Harley-Davidson/)

Harley-Davidson may be expanding the breadth of its streetbike lineup with rides like the Pan America 1250 and the LiveWire, but its bread and butter remains the cruiser. One of the most popular cruisers in this category, the Iron 883 returns for 2022 with three new colorways: White Sand Pearl, Gunship Gray, and Black Denim. That’s the good news.

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 in Black Denim.

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 in Black Denim. (Harley-Davidson/)

Unfortunately, as with many consumer goods these days, the price has also changed, going up $1,250 from last year’s MSRP to $10,749. While the increase isn’t a huge jump, it does represent a milestone in the fact that for many years part of the Iron 883′s appeal was its sub-$10,000 price tag. That era now appears to be over for good.

One of Harley’s most popular models returns for 2022.

One of Harley’s most popular models returns for 2022. (Harley-Davidson/)

That being said, the 883 wasn’t just about the price. It still features the 883cc air-cooled Evolution V-twin and stripped-down aesthetic that riders have come to love. Since its introduction in 2009, the bike retains its “old-school style” and continues to be a prime option for personalization. Its low seat height (25.7 inches, laden) makes this a viable option for newer riders and shorter riders, and the blacked-out wheels, exhaust, frame, and covers enhance the aggressive presence of the machine.

It’s simple and straightforward from an electronics perspective, meaning it basically has none of the bells and whistles that you’ll find on many bikes these days.

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 in White Sand Pearl.

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 in White Sand Pearl. (Harley-Davidson/)

2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Technical Specifications and Price

Price: $10,749
Engine: 883cc, air-cooled V-twin; 4 valves
Bore x Stroke: 76.2 x 96.8mm
Compression Ratio: 9.1:1
Fuel Delivery: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Clutch: Wet, multiplate
Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed/belt
Frame: Mild steel tubular
Front Suspension: 39mm fork; 3.6 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Dual coilover shocks, preload adjustable; 1.6 in. travel
Front Brake: 2-piston caliper, 300mm disc
Rear Brake: 2-piston caliper, 260mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: 9-spoke w/ machined highlights; 19 x 2.15 in./16 x 3.0 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Michelin Scorcher 31; 100/90-19 / 150/80-16
Rake/Trail: 30.0°/4.6 in.
Wheelbase: 59.6 in.
Seat Height: 25.7 in. (laden)
Fuel Capacity: 3.3 gal.
Claimed Curb Weight: 564 lb.
Available: 2022
Contact: harley-davidson.com

Just some bold new colors for 2022.

Just some bold new colors for 2022. (Harley-Davidson/)

Unfortunately, 2022 marks the year the Iron 883 moved above the $10,000 mark.

Unfortunately, 2022 marks the year the Iron 883 moved above the $10,000 mark. (Harley-Davidson/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Damon HyperFighter Electric Naked Bike First Look Preview

A classic design idea, updated. Monocoque frame integrates the 150kW motor and battery as a stressed member.

A classic design idea, updated. Monocoque frame integrates the 150kW motor and battery as a stressed member. (Damon Motorcycles/)

On paper or in pixels, the Damon HyperSport is the finest electric motorcycle yet. Two hundred miles per hour, 200 hp and a claimed 200-mile range will do that. No electric bike in current production can touch those figures. Of course, right now neither can anyone who’s put in a preorder for a Damon.

The tech world is defined by bluster before results. Assuming Vancouver, Canada-based Damon can deliver, the HyperSport will be paired with the HyperFighter, Damon’s latest potential streetbike. Up first is the $35,000 (or so) limited-edition HyperFighter Colossus; Damon claims that bike will be followed by two future HyperFighter Unlimited models, trimmed of the Colossus name and about $10,000 from the sticker. Only 100 Colossuses are planned for production.

Related: Damon Motorcycles Electric Hypersport SX and SE Preview

Clean tail design incorporates a camera that feeds data to the Copilot advanced warning system.

Clean tail design incorporates a camera that feeds data to the Copilot advanced warning system. (Damon Motorcycles/)

Damon says that, as with the HyperSport, the HyperFighter Colossus will feature Copilot, Shift, and HyperDrive, all proprietary systems that push various envelopes of what electric motorcycles can be. The HyperDrive powertrain is a monocoque-mounted battery and motor said to be capable of 200 hp (150kW), 146 miles (235 kilometers) of range, and a 20kWh battery. Claimed top speed is 170 mph. The Copilot system is a 360-degree advanced warning system using radar and cameras to give visual and haptic warnings to riders. Claimed to be capable of tracking up to 64 objects at a time, it could be a game changer for urban riding. The dash provides a rearview look at what’s behind the rider.

Subtlety need not apply. Front fascia boldly puts the nameplate to the wind, above the front-facing camera that feeds data to the Copilot advanced warning system.

Subtlety need not apply. Front fascia boldly puts the nameplate to the wind, above the front-facing camera that feeds data to the Copilot advanced warning system. (Damon Motorcycles/)

But the star of the promotional materials is the Shift system, which Damon says will allow for on-the-fly ergonomic adjustments. That’s a fancy way of saying that ride height, handlebar position, and footpeg placement can be changed with the push of a button. Technically speaking, your HyperFighter could become a standard bike, a tourer, or even track-ready at rider command.

But the show-me-the-money specs are charging time and curb weight. A 110V power supply will take a claimed 15 hours to fully charge, while a built-in fast charger is claimed to charge up to 80 percent in as little as 45 minutes. Weight wasn’t disclosed, but the HyperSport weighs in at a claimed 440 pounds.

Related: Test Ride A Damon Motorcycles Electric Hypersport In 2021

Single-sided swingarm and Öhlins fork carry Italian-born designer Noemi Napolitano’s first-ever motorcycle design.

Single-sided swingarm and Öhlins fork carry Italian-born designer Noemi Napolitano’s first-ever motorcycle design. (Damon Motorcycles/)

The prototype unveiled at the 2022 CES show in Las Vegas was likely unfinished, as COO and co-founder Dom Kwong pointed to a nearby HyperSport to demonstrate the Shift system in action. Curiously, the word “commuter” came up often in CEO and co-founder Jay Giraud’s remarks. But he also made reference to “traffic Ninjas,” so streetfighters haven’t gone completely mundane.

Purely from the point of view of a marketing exercise, a streetfighter is a smart move. That’s not necessarily a slight; marketing is a tool for moving product, and unveiling a new model at CES puts Damon back into the news cycle and drives additional interest. And it shifts focus from other potential narratives, such as “Exactly how many HyperSports has Damon actually delivered?”

TFT display integrates dashboard with rearview camera and directional warnings. Handlebars convey haptic warnings to riders.

TFT display integrates dashboard with rearview camera and directional warnings. Handlebars convey haptic warnings to riders. (Damon Motorcycles/)

Ambitious dreams and amplified hopes should meet with healthy skepticism. A streetfighter is, by definition, a quick-and-easy adaptation requiring little more than a design face-lift. Plus, the existing HyperSport platform means its ergonomics can remain unchanged, Shift system use notwithstanding. Still, as things sit now, any Damon HyperSport or HyperFighter that leaves the factory for delivery will be a win for motorcycling. Any optimistic skeptic wants to be proven wrong.

And one cause for optimism, left unmentioned save for a brief shoutout at CES, is 23-year-old Italian designer Noemi Napolitano, who penned the HyperFighter. It’s her first-ever new motorcycle design, and therefore, brava. Even if the bike is delivered in 2023, you might not see one of her 100 HyperFighter Colossus designs in the flesh. But you should definitely be looking for it.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Alpinestars Introduces New Tech-Air Airbag Systems in 2022

The Alpinestars Tech-Air family expands with three new pieces.

The Alpinestars Tech-Air family expands with three new pieces. (Alpinestars/)

Alpinestars introduced three new Tech-Air airbag systems during the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The Tech-Air 10, Tech-Air 3, and Tech-Air Off-Road V2 are all autonomous systems that can be worn with just about any riding gear (similar to the Tech-Air 5, which is already on the market), each designed with a different type of riding in mind.

Racers and trackday riders can use the Tech-Air 10 under just about any riding suit as long as there’s appropriate clearance in the chest and hips.

Racers and trackday riders can use the Tech-Air 10 under just about any riding suit as long as there’s appropriate clearance in the chest and hips. (Alpinestars/)

The Tech-Air 10 is geared for the track, providing coverage for the shoulders, chest, full back, and hips. It’s derived from technology developed in MotoGP competition and will fit easily underneath any Alpinestars Tech-Air-compatible suit. Suits from other manufacturers can be used as well, however riders will need to ensure there is at least 4 centimeters (1.6 inches) of space around the circumference of the chest and 2 centimeters (0.8 inch) of space around the hips in order for the airbags to deploy safely and effectively.

The Tech-Air 3 will be worn over your normal riding gear.

The Tech-Air 3 will be worn over your normal riding gear. (Alpinestars/)

The Tech-Air 3 is an over-the-jacket style piece aimed at street bike riders. It’s an all-weather system and will be available in both men’s and women’s sizes.

Finally, the Tech-Air Off-Road V2 will provide ample protection around the back, shoulders, and chest for dirt riders. It was originally developed to take on the harsh conditions of the Dakar Rally. Alpinestars mentions that the Off-Road will be available for purchase later in 2022.

There is no mention of availability timelines for the Tech-Air 10 or Tech-Air 3. Pricing information for each piece is yet to be revealed as well.

Airbags and armor combine in the Off-Road V2.

Airbags and armor combine in the Off-Road V2. (Alpinestars/)

Full protection offered by the Tech-Air 10.

Full protection offered by the Tech-Air 10. (Alpinestars/)

The Tech-Air 3 will come in men’s and women’s sizes.

The Tech-Air 3 will come in men’s and women’s sizes. (Alpinestars/)

The Tech-Air Off-Road V2 will provide ample protection.

The Tech-Air Off-Road V2 will provide ample protection. (Alpinestars/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

2022 Suzuki RM-Z250 Review

For die-hard motorcyclists, few things beat the freedom of riding off-road. Dirt bikes, unconfined by traffic laws and other constraints, are about charging across the land and cutting your own path. Every now and then we’re keen to throw some roost, and Suzuki’s 2022 RM-Z250 ($7,899) is a remarkably fun way to throw it.

Editor’s note: The RM-Z250 is a non-street-legal motorcycle for use on closed courses or in legal off-road riding areas.

We take a ride aboard Suzuki’s RM-Z250 dirt bike in this review.

We take a ride aboard Suzuki’s RM-Z250 dirt bike in this review. (Joseph Agustin/)

Suzuki, in contrast to the other big motorcycle manufacturers, offers a simpler off-road lineup. The RM-Z250 slots into its three-bike motocross segment. While these bikes are engineered for closed-course competition, not everyone lines up at the starting gate every time they ride.

Because this RM is a competition bike, there’s no kickstarter; it rests on either a removable axle-mounted triangle stand or a raised centerstand. The latter looks nicer, but it requires added effort to lift the 233-pound (claimed) yellow bike off the stand, and because of their lengthy suspension travel and ground clearance, moto bikes are tall by design. Still, a slim seat and nicely tapered radiator shrouds make it easy for an average-sized person to get comfortable at the controls.

Every now and then, it’s fun to throw some dirt bike roost and Suzuki’s RM-Z’s a great way to do it.

Every now and then, it’s fun to throw some dirt bike roost and Suzuki’s RM-Z’s a great way to do it. (Joseph Agustin/)

Related: Facebook Marketplace Finds: Suzuki RM-Z450 DTX Flat-Track Bike

Most modern dirt bikes employ electric start. Suzuki, on the other hand, wants riders to fire its liquid-cooled 249cc single the old fashion way, so it has gifted the bike a mechanical right-hand-side kickstarter. If you’re new to dirt biking it may seem like more of a chore, even if you’ll look cooler. If you’re the old-school type, one or two kicks, even ill-timed kicks, are enough to light the engine. A handy cold-start elevates idle in chilly weather.

Suzuki wants riders to light the engine the old-fashioned way with a mechanical kickstarter. Of course, it isn’t as convenient as a button but one or two kicks, even ill-timed kicks, are enough to fire it.

Suzuki wants riders to light the engine the old-fashioned way with a mechanical kickstarter. Of course, it isn’t as convenient as a button but one or two kicks, even ill-timed kicks, are enough to fire it. (Joseph Agustin/)

Fuel injection gives the RM-Z crisp, immediate throttle response, and the engine drinks from a 1.7-gallon aluminum fuel tank, big enough for plenty of laps around most closed courses but limiting range for hourslong trail rides. Color-coded plug-and-play-style couplers tweak throttle response based on preference: The black plug is for a richer (more fuel-to-air) map, which is ideal for extended high-speed riding; conversely the white plug gives a leaner (less fuel-to-air) running condition, which enhances engine response. For our riding, the standard gray plug works fine.

While the RM-Z250 lacks some of the competition’s modern accoutrements, it looks cool in its Champion Yellow No. 2 colorway.

While the RM-Z250 lacks some of the competition’s modern accoutrements, it looks cool in its Champion Yellow No. 2 colorway. (Joseph Agustin/)

Suzuki now includes a digital tuner it calls the MX-Tuner 2.0. This device lets the user tune the engine with their Android or iOS-powered smartphones by using the WiGET app; this app includes more preset maps and allows for custom fuel and ignition maps. It also keeps tabs on engine hours and running parameters. The tuner is also compatible with older fuel-injected RM-Z’s but is priced at $599.95 for the tool and, as the hardware requires auxiliary power from a user-supplied lead-acid motorcycle battery, $29.95 for the battery power plug.

Modern Suzukis turn on a dime, and we value this yellow bike’s precise handling.

Modern Suzukis turn on a dime, and we value this yellow bike’s precise handling. (Joseph Agustin/)

The RM-Z’s 36 hp engine has a nice responsive bark, but isn’t too loud. Bottom and midrange power is peppy, though the engine is a tad sluggish as it nears its redline at just over 13,000 rpm. If there were ever a dirt bike deserving of an aftermarket exhaust, the RM-Z250 is it. Unlike other high-revving 250s, this RM-Z feels best when short-shifted through its five-speed gearbox, so it’s a good thing that it has low, close-ratio gearing and a secure-shifting transmission. And the nicely weighted and responsive cable-actuated clutch is a good touch.

A slim seat and nicely tapered radiator shrouds make it easy for an average-sized person to get comfortable at the controls.

A slim seat and nicely tapered radiator shrouds make it easy for an average-sized person to get comfortable at the controls. (Joseph Agustin/)

Modern Suzukis turn on a dime, and we value this yellow bike’s precise handling. Heavier folks will appreciate the RM-Z’s heavy-duty coil-spring suspension setup, which makes for a better ride over big dips and G-outs. Still, things can get a tad twitchy at speed, especially in the rough stuff. The suspension offers a good range of damping adjustment, though average-sized dirt bikers will likely want a more supple spring rate.

In standard dirt bike form, the RM-Z rolls on a 21-inch front spoked wheel. The front brake offers pleasing stopping power but we wish it had a more aggressive pad compound.

In standard dirt bike form, the RM-Z rolls on a 21-inch front spoked wheel. The front brake offers pleasing stopping power but we wish it had a more aggressive pad compound. (Joseph Agustin/)

Hydraulic disc brakes provide adequate stopping power, but it would be nice if the front brake had a more aggressive brake pad compound. Both brake lever and pedal have a wide range of adjustment for riders based on preference.

Heavier guys and gals will appreciate the RM-Z’s heavy-duty coil-spring suspension.

Heavier guys and gals will appreciate the RM-Z’s heavy-duty coil-spring suspension. (Joseph Agustin/)

True, this isn’t the fastest dirt 250 out there. As usual, Suzuki rides the fine line between performance and value. And while the RM-Z250 lacks some of the competition’s modern accoutrements, it looks cool in its Champion Yellow No. 2 colorway and handles well, especially for plus-sized riders. Factor in the elevated Japanese build quality, and with a little bit of aftermarket love, you can have a trustworthy moto-steed set up to fit your own dirt bike freedom seeking.

The RM-Z benefits from easy-to-adjust suspension that allows riders to tweak suspension action.

The RM-Z benefits from easy-to-adjust suspension that allows riders to tweak suspension action. (Joseph Agustin/)

Gear Box

Helmet: Alpinestars Supertech Limited-Edition Deus Ex Machina

Goggle: 100% Armega

Jersey: Alpinestars 2022 Supertech Foster

Pant: Alpinestars 2022 Supertech Foster

Gloves: Alpinestars 2022 Radar

Boot: Alpinestars Tech 7

It isn’t the fastest dirt 250 out there, but as usual, Suzuki rides the fine line between performance and value with its RM-Z250.

It isn’t the fastest dirt 250 out there, but as usual, Suzuki rides the fine line between performance and value with its RM-Z250. (Joseph Agustin/)

2022 Suzuki RM-Z250 Technical Specifications and Price

PRICE $7,899 as tested
ENGINE 249cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled single; 4-valve
BORE x STROKE 77.0 x 53.6mm
COMPRESSION RATIO 13.7:1
FUEL DELIVERY Electronic fuel injection w/ 44mm throttle body
CLUTCH Wet, multiplate; cable actuation
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE 5-speed/chain
FRAME Twin-spar aluminum
FRONT SUSPENSION KYB Air-Oil Separate (AOS) coil-spring fork, compression and rebound damping adjustable; 12.2 in. travel
REAR SUSPENSION KYB shock, spring preload, high-/low-speed compression damping, and high-/low-speed rebound damping adjustable; 11.8 in. travel
FRONT BRAKE Nissin 2-piston caliper, 270mm disc
REAR BRAKE Nissin 1-piston caliper, 240mm disc
WHEELS, FRONT/REAR Spoked wheels; 21 in. / 19 in.
TIRES, FRONT/REAR Dunlop Geomax MX33; 80/100-21 / 100/90-19
RAKE/TRAIL 28.7°/4.9 in.
WHEELBASE 58.5 in.
SEAT HEIGHT 37.5 in.
FUEL CAPACITY 1.7 gal.
CURB WEIGHT 233 lb.
WARRANTY N/A

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

2022 Kawasaki Z Line 50th Anniversary Editions First Look

Four limited-edition Kawasaki models will celebrate 50 years of Z in 2022.

Four limited-edition Kawasaki models will celebrate 50 years of Z in 2022. (Kawasaki/)

Fans of Kawasaki’s current and former Z family will want to set aside some cash in 2022 because four 50th anniversary models will soon be available. The Z900 and Z650 sport a Firecracker Red color scheme which honors the look of the 1981 Z1100GP while the Z900RS and Z650RS will come in a Fireball colorway that pays homage to the 1972 Z1. These streetbikes will be in limited production and each will come with a special coffee-table book that celebrates Kawasaki’s 50 years of Z.

The Firecracker Red scheme includes a signature ‘80s-era red on the tank, bodywork, and wheels complemented by dark blue, silver, and gloss black. There will be gold-finished Z emblems and Kawasaki logos along with a commemorative 50th Anniversary badge on the front fender. The Z900 will also come equipped with gold fork tubes. The 50th Anniversary edition Z900 will be priced at $9,499 while the Z650 rings in at $8,299.

2022 Kawasaki Z650 50th Anniversary Edition.

2022 Kawasaki Z650 50th Anniversary Edition. (Kawasaki/)

On the retro-styled RS models, the Fireball colorway honors the original Z1. Kawasaki used a premium layering technique during paint application to give the red a deep, glossy look. The frames are in gloss black while gold wheels provide a nice accent to the visual package.

These bikes will come with a “Double Overhead Camshaft” side cover like the Z1 along with a 50th Anniversary tank logo. Both machines also get updated seat material with color stitching and chrome grab bars. The Z900RS in 50th Anniversary trim will start at $12,049 while the Z650RS will be priced at $9,249.

2022 Kawasaki Z650RS 50th Anniversary Edition.

2022 Kawasaki Z650RS 50th Anniversary Edition. (Kawasaki/)

2022 Kawasaki Z900 50th Anniversary Edition.

2022 Kawasaki Z900 50th Anniversary Edition. (Kawasaki/)

2022 Kawasaki Z900RS 50th Anniversary Edition.

2022 Kawasaki Z900RS 50th Anniversary Edition. (Kawasaki/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com