Choices for smaller, affordable motorcycles are growing, and that’s good news for riders looking for a fun bike that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re new to riding and want something easy to handle or an experienced rider looking for a lighter or shorter bike, you have more options now than ever when it comes to finding the best small motorcycles!
Below is Rider’s 2022-2023 list of Best Small Motorcycles, an update of the popular post from 2019. Our new list includes motorcycles with seat heights up to 30 inches with an MSRP of $17,000 or less.
We’ve also curated lists of the best bikes with seat heights between 30.0 and 30.9 inches, as well as a list of bikes with seat heights between 31.0 and 31.9 inches. We’ll include links to those lists soon.
When possible, we’ve included a link to our test ride reviewsso you can get a sense of how each bike performs in action. We’ve also included the 2022-2023 model year’s U.S. base MSRP (as of publication), seat height, and claimed wet or dry weight. On models with options to lower the seat height or suspension, we’ve listed the standard and lowered seat heights. You can also click on a model’s name to go to the manufacturer’s webpage for a full list of specifications and details.
The models in this list are arranged by seat height, with the first model having the shortest seat height and the last model having the tallest seat height in the list.
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana’s Glacier National Park should be on every motorcyclist’s must-ride list. (Photos by the author)
As motorcyclists, we feel drawn to the open road. As Americans, we want to take in as much of what our country has to offer as we can. And as human beings – especially if we’re of a certain age – we want to see our family and friends face-to-face, to hug them and shake their hands and hear and tell stories new and old. Phone calls and texts help us stay in touch, but they are a poor substitute for the real deal. I decided to check all the boxes with a cross-country motorcycle trip.
I live in Southern California, and I have family and friends all over this great nation, from sea to shining sea. I’ve ridden cross-country many times before, but I was overdue for a special lap around America, one where I could see the sights and visit the important people in my life without a strict agenda or schedule. When I opened a Dove chocolate and saw the advice “Live every day with no regrets, it’ll be worth it” inside the wrapper, it felt like a calling. I packed my gear and headed east.
Visiting loved ones like my Uncle Bud in New York was the highlight of the trip.
Family Roots
Back in 1940, my grandparents loaded up their ’37 Packard with all their belongings, including my 10-year-old father, Mark, and his 7-year-old younger brother, Bernard (where I got my middle name) and headed west. Leaving Youngstown, Ohio, they made their way to Route 66 and followed it to Burbank, California, where Grandpa Seth got a welding and fabricating job for Lockheed Aircraft.
Before long, my grandparents purchased a Texaco station that became the family business. Our family still owns the building, which now houses an auto body shop. My grandparents died just before I was born, but I believe I inherited my love and innate abilities for fabricating and restoring motorcycles from my Grandpa Seth. I still use his old Wilton bench vise, hand tools, and other equipment.
Leaving on Memorial Day, my first stop was my grandparents’ gravesite at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Burbank, California. I asked them to watch over me.
Time was of the essence with my own cross-country journey, some 82 years later. My dad was approaching his 95th birthday, and ol’ Uncle “Bud” (Bernard’s nickname) was pushing 92. They don’t travel anymore, and they hadn’t seen each other in over a decade. I decided to keep the trip a secret from Dad. My plan was to ride to New York and do a surprise video call between the aging brothers.
I left my house in Thousand Oaks, California, on Memorial Day and returned home in time to celebrate the 4th of July. Over a month and more than 10,000 miles, I passed through 33 states, visited and stayed with dozens of people who were already near and dear to my heart, and enjoyed meeting many new friends as well.
Reuniting with my old friend Carter Kirk in the shadow of Mount Rushmore.
To get ready for my journey, Alpinestars and Shoei/Helmet House provided me with gear, Nelson-Rigg set me up with a waterproof duffel, and my friends at Suzuki were kind enough to loan me a 2022 V-Strom 650XT with an accessory tankbag and panniers. The V-Strom 650 is one of the best bang-for-the-buck adventure bikes out there. It fits me like a glove, has a really comfortable seat, likes to go off-road here and there, and only asked for gas in the tank and PJ1 on the chain every now and again.
High plains drifting in New Mexico. It’s fun to imagine what’s beyond the horizon.
On the second day of the trip I was tempted to do some off-road exploring near Zion National Park in Utah, but I had a long journey ahead of me, so I thought better of it.
With the bike packed, I said my goodbyes and my prayers, pulled in the clutch, dropped into 1st gear, and rolled away from home. It was a surreal feeling starting a ride of this magnitude, wondering what might be in store for me.
A Cross-Country Motorcycle Trip: Eastbound and Down
Before departing on this ride, I traced a big outline of the U.S. and each of the lower 48 states on a large sheet of heavy-duty paper, and at the top I wrote “2022 Friends & Family Ride!” I kept it rolled up in a cardboard tube and used it to document my route. Along the way, I had family, friends, and other folks write notes and messages on the map.
My homemade route map signed by friends, family, and others along the way is a special keepsake from my journey.
After riding across the Mojave Desert to Las Vegas, I continued northeast and rode through Zion National Park in Utah. I meandered east to Four Corners, got off my bike, and managed to be in all four states at once with my feet in Arizona and New Mexico and my hands in Utah and Colorado. In New Mexico, I visited friends in Farmington and Tucumcari. As the trip unfolded, I found that most of the time there was another friend or family member with whom I could stay within a day’s ride.
Spreading out over four states at once at Four Corners (Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona).
I blazed across the Texas Panhandle on my way to “McDonald Land,” the nickname for where Norm and Lucy McDonald live near Tulsa, Oklahoma. Norm is the “N” in K&N filters, which nearly everyone has run in their bikes or cars at some point. I used to pitstop there in the early ’80s when traveling around the country during my AMA roadracing days. I met the McDonalds through their son, Sam, when we were both novices in 1980. Through K&N Yamaha, Norm and Lucy sponsored countless racers over the years, with Malcolm Smith being one of the most notable. They are wonderful people whose friendship is precious to me. Staying with them again like in the good ol’ days was very special.
It didn’t take long to become friends with Susie at The Korner Shop Cafe in West Virginia.
Taking a selfie at the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.
After visiting other friends in Memphis, Tennessee, I skipped across the tops of Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia and made my way up into the Appalachians and onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Rider magazine readers have seen plenty of great ride stories from this area, and now I got to do the riding!
The views are endless at the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Maggie Valley Overlook.
The weather was perfect, the scenery was beautiful, and I took some side trips on the 650XT down small roads and trails. In Maggie Valley, North Carolina, I stopped at the Wheels Through Time Museum. I love old bikes and old American stuff, so this place is like heaven to me. Dale Walksler has passed, but his son Matt has taken over and is doing an awesome job keeping the museum going.
With Matt Walksler at the Wheels Through Time museum.
Heading North
I rode up Skyline Drive and into Virginia, where I spent a couple nights at Brian and Betty Richardson’s 19th-century sheep farm. Rider’s former editor-in-chief, Mark Tuttle, connected me with the Richardsons back in 2009, and I raced Brian’s homebuilt Moto-Electra electric bike in the TTXGP series for a few years. In 2013, we set the coast-to-coast world record for electric vehicles on the same bike by crossing the U.S. in 84.5 hours. Brian and I became good friends, and for years I’ve been telling him I would ride up to his farm one day. I finally did, and we spent a day riding together on awesome backroads.
With my buddy Brian Richardson at the Green Briar Hotel in West Virginia. Beneath us was the U.S. Congress’ secret nuclear fallout shelter.
Spending some time relaxing at Brian and Betty Richardson’s sheep farm in Virginia.
I left the farm in the morning and was soon greeted by a dramatic change in scenery. By midday, I was taking a selfie in front of the Capitol in D.C. I wished I could help straighten things out there, but I decided I’d rather ride my motorcycle. I hightailed it out of D.C. and crossed the Delaware Bay on a ferry from Lewes, Delaware, to Cape May, New Jersey, which is the oldest resort town in America and a neat place to stay.
Cows sure are big in Pennsylvania!
Another special thing about New Jersey is one of its residents: Gloria Struck, the first lady of motorcycling, who is 97 years young. I wrote a story for Rider (March 2013 issue) about Gloria and the Motor Maids, and we have been close friends for a long time. We first met years ago at Daytona Bike Week, where I noticed her Harley had Clorox bottles cut in half and strapped to the handlebar as wind deflectors. I had done that before myself, but when I found out it was Gloria’s bike and that she had ridden from New Jersey, where she had to shovel snow to get out of her driveway, I immediately developed a deep fondness and respect for this woman.
Those boots were made for riding, and that’s just what they did on Gloria Struck’s feet.
Spending a couple nights with Gloria, reminiscing and listening to her talk about riding her motorcycle, or the trike she’s going to get when she turns 100, was absolutely priceless. I highly recommend buying her book, Gloria – A Lifetime Motorcyclist: 75 Years on Two Wheels and Still Riding, which was published in 2018.
Gloria did her first solo ride to Daytona in 1951 to watch the beach races. Dick Klamfoth won that year (and also in 1949 and 1952), and as fate would have it, Dick and I became friends, and I helped him build the Daytona 200 monument, which took several years. He and his wife, Bev, are gone now, but later in my ride, I would carry on our memories by visiting their daughter, Christy, in Ohio.
Washington D.C. was a change of scenery. I didn’t stay long.
The Big Apple
From Clifton, New Jersey, I passed under the Hudson River through the Lincoln Tunnel and popped out in midtown Manhattan. Riding around the Big Apple in the rain was quite an adventure. After taking the Queensboro Bridge over the East River to Long Island City, I finally arrived at the easternmost point of my journey and visited Uncle Bud. It had been hard to keep the secret, but when we surprised my dad with a FaceTime call from his brother and son, it was a very special family moment.
I hope I’ve inherited good ol’ Uncle Bud’s genes. Hard to believe he’s 92.
Saying goodbye to good ol’ Uncle Bud and wondering if it would be the last time we’d see each other face-to-face was emotional, but I laughed as always when he said, “See ya later, alligator!”
Crossing Manhattan again, I was officially on my way home. It felt good to make it out of the big city and know the rest of the ride would be mostly rural countrysides and small towns.
Westward Ho!
In our family’s hometown of Youngstown, Ohio, I stayed with my cousin John. We had never met and had fun getting to know one another. Using Bud’s recently sketched picture of the family home, we found the now-abandoned dwelling where they once lived. It was like searching for hidden treasure with a map Bud drew from his memory of a place he left at the age of 7! John showed me around, and I imagined my family living there in the old steel town’s heyday. I thought about them in the old Packard driving away from the house on Worthington Street for the last time, looking back at what was being left behind and then looking forward, wondering what life would be like in California.
With Uncle Bud’s hand-drawn map, my cousin John and I found our family’s old home in Youngstown, Ohio.
The V-Strom 650XT and I had fun two-tracking through the Great Smoky Mountains.
From Youngstown, I rode southwest to Columbus, where I visited the AMA Hall of Fame Museum and then popped in on Bruce Linsday. Bruce is a top guy in the antique motorcycle world with an unbelievable collection of early American motorcycles. Years ago, when we were in Death Valley riding our old Harleys, he invited me to stop by his place so I could ride a particular old Harley dating back to 1905. The factory in Milwaukee has one in its museum, and Bruce has the other one. These two bikes are the oldest Harleys in existence. The factory’s bike is under glass and will never be ridden, so I was fortunate enough to be able to ride the oldest running Harley there is! Quite an experience.
Riding the world’s oldest running Harley was quite an experience for me.
After a stop in Des Moines, Iowa, I continued west to South Dakota. In 2009, I attended the V-Strom Rally in Rapid City on assignment for Rider (April 2010 issue) and made friends with resident V-Strom rider Carter Kirk. He let me borrow his bike for the rally, and I had a wonderful time exploring the Black Hills. Since I was traveling on a new V-Strom 650XT on my family-and-friends tour, I had to visit Carter.
With him on his old V-Strom and me on my new one, we spent a day riding and sightseeing. We stood at the base of Mount Rushmore and took in the majesty of one of this country’s most patriotic treasures. After dinner in Sturgis, we capped off an awesome day with a night ride home through pouring rain and an unbelievable lightning show. When we made it home, I had a good laugh when Carter asked me if I was worried during the ride. I tried to act like I wasn’t.
I visited Christie Klamfoth and her partner Al in Ohio. Her parents, Dick and Bev, opened up the heavens to let their love shine down on us.
After crossing the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains invited me to explore the high country. America the beautiful!
After visiting Devils Tower in Wyoming, I continued northwest into Montana. I love this part of the country, and after riding through some more open grassland, I was finally rewarded with a view of the snowcapped Rocky Mountains. I rode the incomparable Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, then made my way into Idaho, where I visited my nephew, Robert, and his wife, Tracy, in the little community of Harrison. They recently moved there from our hometown in Southern California to a little house overlooking a lake.
This was about as far as I could go trying to scale Mount Hood in Oregon.
Farther west, I enjoyed riding the Cascade loop in Washington with all the forest roads and the surprising views of white-topped volcanic mountains that appear out of nowhere. After a stop to visit my sister-in-law Jill in Bend, Oregon, I finally saw what I was waiting for: the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean. I punched my fist into the air and hollered “Yahoo!” inside my helmet. I love riding along the western edge of our country.
The Homestretch of My Cross-Country Motorcycle Trip
Back in California, my next stop was Eureka, a nice little coastal town where I stayed with my Uncle Jim and Aunt Jan and visited my cousin Bill. At this point in the trip, I had seen all my living relatives and felt I had accomplished what I set out to do.
I stopped to say hello to Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox at Trees of Mystery in Klamath, California.
But there were more miles to cover, such as riding among the majestic coastal redwoods before heading inland to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park in northeastern California. Zigzagging my way through the gold country of the Sierra Nevada, around Lake Tahoe, and past Mammoth Mountain. And then finally crossing the Mojave Desert again to get home.
What a feeling to turn the corner and know this journey had come to an end. There in the driveway was my wife, Jody, and my daughter, Kelly, waiting for me with open arms. I hadn’t even gotten off the bike before the tear-filled hugs began. Wow, what a feeling!
The best part about coming home was seeing my wife, Jody, and my daughter, Kelly.
I arrived home in time for my dad’s 95th birthday, and he ended up passing away peacefully two short weeks later. The timing for this trip was perfect, and I’m glad I was able to make it happen rather than make excuses. In the end, our faith, family, friends, and the memories we’ve made (many with handlebars in hand) are all we have. Nothing else matters.
Suzuki has announced additional models to its 2023 product line, including the sport-touring Suzuki GSX-S1000GT/GT+ models, plus three Boulevard models: the M109R B.O.S.S. muscle cruiser and the C50 and C50T. The announcement comes on the tail of Suzuki’s unveiling of an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine at the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, in November. The new engine will power the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT/GT+
Announced as Rider’s 2022 Motorcycle of the Year, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ (the ‘+’ denoting the model with standard saddlebags, whereas the base GT model goes without) returns for 2023 with all the features that merit its MOTY status and a new color choice for the GT+.
As we said in our Road Test Review of the GSX-S1000GT+, the GSX-S engine is a “gem with no rough edges.”
In this file photo, we test the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The GT is powered by the same 999cc in-line Four as the GSX-S1000, which churned out 136 hp at 10,200 rpm and 73 lb-ft of torque at 9,300 rpm on Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno.
“From cracking open the throttle above idle to twisting the grip to the stop, power comes on cleanly and predictably,” our reviewer wrote.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ in Metallic Triton Blue
Both the GSX-S1000GT and GT+ have throttle-by-wire enabling the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, which is monitored on the 6.5-inch TFT display and includes three ride modes (Active, Basic, and Comfort) that adjust throttle response and power delivery, 5-level traction control, cruise control, and Suzuki’s Easy Start, Low RPM Assist, and Bi-Directional Quick Shift systems.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT in Metallic Reflective Blue
The GSX-S1000GT+ returns in Glass Sparkle Black and a new Metallic Triton Blue starting at $14,099. The GSX-S1000GT continues for 2023 in Metallic Reflective Blue starting at $13,349.
2023 Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
2023 Suzuki Boulevard M109R in deep red and black
The 2023 Suzuki M109R B.O.S.S. features a liquid-cooled 1,783cc, 8-valve DOHC, 54-degree V-Twin engine with 120mm bore and 90.5mm stroke. In Rider’s Road Test Review of the 2015 M109R, the reviewer said the bike had a “dual-personality motor; a typically torquey cruiser initially, it then morphs into a heckuva strong sport mount.”
The M109R has a 46mm inverted fork with 5.1 inches of travel, a hidden single-shock rear suspension, Twin floating disc-brakes with dual-piston calipers in the front and a single-disc rear brake with a single dual-piston caliper, and a low-profile 240/40 x 18 rear tire, the widest ever used on a Suzuki motorcycle.
2023 Suzuki Boulevard M109R in bright blue and black
The M109R’s engine is wrapped with aggressive blacked-out styling with slash-cut mufflers, drag-style bars, a supplied solo seat cowl with a 27.8-inch height, a headlight nacelle that’s uniquely Suzuki, and a 5.2-gallon fuel tank. The bike comes in at 764-lb wet weight.
The 2023 Suzuki M109R comes in a deep red and black or bright blue and black paint scheme starting at $15,599.
2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50/C50T
2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 in Solid Iron Gray
The 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 and C50T feature a liquid-cooled 805cc 45-degree V-Twin with the Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) electronic fuel-injection system and a 5-speed gearbox with shaft drive.
Link-type rear suspension is shaped to mimic the hard-tail lines of a traditional cruiser, connecting a truss-style swingarm and a single shock absorber with seven-way spring preload adjustability, providing 4.1 inches of smooth and responsive suspension travel, and a telescopic front fork delivers 5.5 inches of travel.
Both bikes have wide, buckhorn-style handlebars, 27.6-inch seat height, and spoke-style chrome wheels with large valance fenders. The C50T offering white-wall tires, leather-texture saddlebags with chrome studs, and a removable, height-adjustable windshield.
2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50T in Pearl Brilliant White
Both the Boulevard C50 and C50T have a 4.1-gal tank, and the C50 comes in with a wet weight of 611 lb (644 lb for the C50T).
The 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 comes in Candy Daring Red or Solid Iron Gray starting at $8,909. The C50T comes in Pearl Brilliant White paint with subtle blue graphics starting at $15,599.
At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
Suzuki says the 2023 GSX-8S is a “brand-new naked middleweight streetfighter with a robust engine, an agile chassis, a suite of electronic rider aids, plus stunning looks.”
The compact 776cc parallel-twin engine is mounted in a new rugged steel frame design, uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque production, and is equipped with Suzuki’s exclusive Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. The bike also features the ride-by-wire electronic throttle control system, Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), and the Bi-directional Quick Shift system.
The 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S also comes with Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) with a three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, the four-mode Advanced Traction Control System, ABS, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
New exposed seat rails are engineered to support the rider and, when combined with the 3.69-gal fuel tank with a narrow rear section that flows into the seat, contribute to the GSX-8S’ slim appearance and stripped-down look.
Suspension is provided by a KYB inverted fork with a 130mm stroke with stable damping characteristics in the front that make the bike suitable for both sports riding and long-distance rides and dedicated link-type mono-shock KYB suspension with mechanical preload adjuster in the rear.
Stopping power comes from Nissin radial-mount 4-piston front brake calipers mated with 310mm outer diameter floating-mount dual discs. The rear brake has a 240mm outer diameter disc and uses a single-piston pin-slide caliper.
The cast-aluminum wheels feature a new lightweight design and are shod with a new generation of Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tires (120/70ZR17 in the front; 180/55ZR17 in the rear), and Suzuki says the tapered aluminum handlebars provide a “sporty yet comfortable upright riding position and feature a wide enough grip to contribute to positive control when steering.” And at a height of 31.9 inches, the seat has been designed for solid support for the rider toward its rear edge.
The bike has a 5-inch color TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel, vertically stacked LED headlights in hexagonal housings topped by an LED position light, and LED turnsignals and taillight.
All combined, the GSX-8S comes in at a curb weight of 445 lb and offers styling that Suzuki says creates “an appealing new mass-forward, aggressive look that is slim, compact, well-balanced, and ready for action.”
The 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S comes in three colorways, each featuring unique logos and graphics that help identify the sport’s newest performance motorcycle and that first appeared on the 2022 GSX-S1000.
Buyers can select from Suzuki’s Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White, or Metallic Matte Black No. 2 / Glass Sparkle Black paint scheme. Pricing and availability hasn’t been announced as of publication.
2023 Suzuki GSX-8S in Metallic Matte Black No. 2 Glass Sparkle Black
For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
Filling the gap between the venerable V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 1050 models, the V-Strom 800DE is aimed at riders who want a middleweight adventure bike that is fully capable both on-road and off-road. It has a 21-inch front wheel, spoked rims front and rear, and the longest suspension travel and most ground clearance of any V-Strom model.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black
Like other V-Strom models, the V-Strom 800DE has angular bodywork with a pronounced beak that’s inspired by Suzuki’s ’80s-era DR-Big dual-sport. Like the GSX-S1000, mono-focus LED headlights are vertically stacked with a position light, and the V-Strom 800DE is topped by a small, height-adjustable windscreen.
The new 776cc parallel-Twin engine uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque character and is equipped with Suzuki’s Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. Throttle-by-wire enables the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector with different engine maps.
The V-Strom 800DE is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) that includes traction control with a trail-oriented Gravel mode, ABS with two levels of sensitivity plus the ability to switch off ABS at the rear wheel, a bi-directional quickshifter, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
A tubular-steel mainframe, a bolt-on tubular-steel subframe, and cast aluminum swingarm are designed to be both light and strong. The compact parallel-Twin allows the chassis to be slender between the knees and to position the rider’s weight farther forward for optimal control.
Fully adjustable Showa suspension includes an inverted fork and a rear shock with 8.7 inches of travel front and rear, and ground clearance in 8.75 inches. Dual 310mm floating front discs are squeezed by 2-piston Nissin calipers and a single 265mm rear disc is squeezed by a 1-piston Nissin caliper. The clutch and front brake levers are adjustable for reach, and the shift lever and rear brake pedal are also adjustable.
The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels require tubes and roll on Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires in 90/90-21 and 150/70-R17 sizes.
In the cockpit, the V-Strom 800DE has a wide, tapered handlebar with handguards, a full-color 5-inch TFT display, a USB port, and a windscreen that has three levels of adjustment in 0.6-inch increments (hex key is required). A lightweight resin luggage rack has built-in passenger grab handles and accommodates Suzuki’s accessory top box. A mesh radiator guard and a skid plate are standard equipment.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Champion Yellow No. 2
The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE will be available in two colorways: Champion Yellow No. 2 with gold rims or Glass Matte Mechanical Gray with black rims. The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure, which features black-anodized 37-liter, side protection bars, and a large aluminum skid plate, will be available in Glass Sparkle Black with gold rims. A full line of dedicated accessories will also be available. Pricing and availability are TBD.
For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
Filling the gap between the venerable V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 1050 models, the V-Strom 800DE is aimed at riders who want a middleweight adventure bike that is fully capable both on-road and off-road. It has a 21-inch front wheel, spoked rims front and rear, and the longest suspension travel and most ground clearance of any V-Strom model.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black
Like other V-Strom models, the V-Strom 800DE has angular bodywork with a pronounced beak that’s inspired by Suzuki’s ’80s-era DR-Big dual-sport. Like the GSX-S1000, mono-focus LED headlights are vertically stacked with a position light, and the V-Strom 800DE is topped by a small, height-adjustable windscreen.
The new 776cc parallel-Twin engine uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque character and is equipped with Suzuki’s Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. Throttle-by-wire enables the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector with different engine maps.
The V-Strom 800DE is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) that includes traction control with a trail-oriented Gravel mode, ABS with two levels of sensitivity plus the ability to switch off ABS at the rear wheel, a bi-directional quickshifter, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
A tubular-steel mainframe, a bolt-on tubular-steel subframe, and cast aluminum swingarm are designed to be both light and strong. The compact parallel-Twin allows the chassis to be slender between the knees and to position the rider’s weight farther forward for optimal control.
Fully adjustable Showa suspension includes an inverted fork and a rear shock with 8.7 inches of travel front and rear, and ground clearance in 8.75 inches. Dual 310mm floating front discs are squeezed by 2-piston Nissin calipers and a single 265mm rear disc is squeezed by a 1-piston Nissin caliper. The clutch and front brake levers are adjustable for reach, and the shift lever and rear brake pedal are also adjustable.
The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels require tubes and roll on Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires in 90/90-21 and 150/70-R17 sizes.
In the cockpit, the V-Strom 800DE has a wide, tapered handlebar with handguards, a full-color 5-inch TFT display, a USB port, and a windscreen that has three levels of adjustment in 0.6-inch increments (hex key is required). A lightweight resin luggage rack has built-in passenger grab handles and accommodates Suzuki’s accessory top box. A mesh radiator guard and a skid plate are standard equipment.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Champion Yellow No. 2
The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE will be available in two colorways: Champion Yellow No. 2 with gold rims or Glass Matte Mechanical Gray with black rims. The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure, which features black-anodized 37-liter, side protection bars, and a large aluminum skid plate, will be available in Glass Sparkle Black with gold rims. A full line of dedicated accessories will also be available. Pricing and availability are TBD.
For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
Filling the gap between the venerable V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 1050 models, the V-Strom 800DE is aimed at riders who want a middleweight adventure bike that is fully capable both on-road and off-road. It has a 21-inch front wheel, spoked rims front and rear, and the longest suspension travel and most ground clearance of any V-Strom model.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black
Like other V-Strom models, the V-Strom 800DE has angular bodywork with a pronounced beak that’s inspired by Suzuki’s ’80s-era DR-Big dual-sport. Like the GSX-S1000, mono-focus LED headlights are vertically stacked with a position light, and the V-Strom 800DE is topped by a small, height-adjustable windscreen.
The new 776cc parallel-Twin engine uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque character and is equipped with Suzuki’s Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. Throttle-by-wire enables the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector with different engine maps.
The V-Strom 800DE is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) that includes traction control with a trail-oriented Gravel mode, ABS with two levels of sensitivity plus the ability to switch off ABS at the rear wheel, a bi-directional quickshifter, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
A tubular-steel mainframe, a bolt-on tubular-steel subframe, and cast aluminum swingarm are designed to be both light and strong. The compact parallel-Twin allows the chassis to be slender between the knees and to position the rider’s weight farther forward for optimal control.
Fully adjustable Showa suspension includes an inverted fork and a rear shock with 8.7 inches of travel front and rear, and ground clearance in 8.75 inches. Dual 310mm floating front discs are squeezed by 2-piston Nissin calipers and a single 265mm rear disc is squeezed by a 1-piston Nissin caliper. The clutch and front brake levers are adjustable for reach, and the shift lever and rear brake pedal are also adjustable.
The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels require tubes and roll on Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires in 90/90-21 and 150/70-R17 sizes.
In the cockpit, the V-Strom 800DE has a wide, tapered handlebar with handguards, a full-color 5-inch TFT display, a USB port, and a windscreen that has three levels of adjustment in 0.6-inch increments (hex key is required). A lightweight resin luggage rack has built-in passenger grab handles and accommodates Suzuki’s accessory top box. A mesh radiator guard and a skid plate are standard equipment.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Champion Yellow No. 2
The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE will be available in two colorways: Champion Yellow No. 2 with gold rims or Glass Matte Mechanical Gray with black rims. The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure, which features black-anodized 37-liter, side protection bars, and a large aluminum skid plate, will be available in Glass Sparkle Black with gold rims. A full line of dedicated accessories will also be available. Pricing and availability are TBD.
For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
Filling the gap between the venerable V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 1050 models, the V-Strom 800DE is aimed at riders who want a middleweight adventure bike that is fully capable both on-road and off-road. It has a 21-inch front wheel, spoked rims front and rear, and the longest suspension travel and most ground clearance of any V-Strom model.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black
Like other V-Strom models, the V-Strom 800DE has angular bodywork with a pronounced beak that’s inspired by Suzuki’s ’80s-era DR-Big dual-sport. Like the GSX-S1000, mono-focus LED headlights are vertically stacked with a position light, and the V-Strom 800DE is topped by a small, height-adjustable windscreen.
The new 776cc parallel-Twin engine uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque character and is equipped with Suzuki’s Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. Throttle-by-wire enables the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector with different engine maps.
The V-Strom 800DE is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) that includes traction control with a trail-oriented Gravel mode, ABS with two levels of sensitivity plus the ability to switch off ABS at the rear wheel, a bi-directional quickshifter, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
A tubular-steel mainframe, a bolt-on tubular-steel subframe, and cast aluminum swingarm are designed to be both light and strong. The compact parallel-Twin allows the chassis to be slender between the knees and to position the rider’s weight farther forward for optimal control.
Fully adjustable Showa suspension includes an inverted fork and a rear shock with 8.7 inches of travel front and rear, and ground clearance in 8.75 inches. Dual 310mm floating front discs are squeezed by 2-piston Nissin calipers and a single 265mm rear disc is squeezed by a 1-piston Nissin caliper. The clutch and front brake levers are adjustable for reach, and the shift lever and rear brake pedal are also adjustable.
The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels require tubes and roll on Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires in 90/90-21 and 150/70-R17 sizes.
In the cockpit, the V-Strom 800DE has a wide, tapered handlebar with handguards, a full-color 5-inch TFT display, a USB port, and a windscreen that has three levels of adjustment in 0.6-inch increments (hex key is required). A lightweight resin luggage rack has built-in passenger grab handles and accommodates Suzuki’s accessory top box. A mesh radiator guard and a skid plate are standard equipment.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE in Champion Yellow No. 2
The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE will be available in two colorways: Champion Yellow No. 2 with gold rims or Glass Matte Mechanical Gray with black rims. The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure, which features black-anodized 37-liter, side protection bars, and a large aluminum skid plate, will be available in Glass Sparkle Black with gold rims. A full line of dedicated accessories will also be available. Pricing and availability are TBD.
For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.
2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS in Metallic Reflective Blue.
Following the Suzuki announcement in June of select 2023 sport, dual-sport, supermoto, and off-road motorcycles and its recent announcement of updated V-Strom 1050 models, the company has released information on more sport, street, and adventure bikes that are returning for 2023. Included in the lineup are the high-performance sport GSX-R series, the street-tested and agile GSX-S series, the SV650 standard, V-Strom 650 adventure bikes, and the Burgman 400 scooter.
Read Suzuki’s press release below for details and pricing.
2023 Suzuki GSX-RSeries
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.
GSX-R1000R – At the pinnacle of the GSX-R product line of high-performance motorcycles, the 2023 GSX-R1000R’s engine combines high-performance engineering with performance and tractability. Traction control, launch control, and a bi-directional quick shifter help deliver an unparalleled sport riding experience.
The GSX-R1000R offers Showa BFF and BFRC-Lite suspension components delivering a suspension feel that helps riders rule any track day or mountain pass. Up-front, stainless-steel brake lines, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc brake calipers grasp a pair of 320mm Brembo T-drive floating brake rotors for strong stopping power with outstanding braking response and lever feel.
The GSX-R1000R continues its reign as the best liter-class supersport offering excitement with a proven combination of stellar reliability, durability, usability, and overall high performance with excellent racing potential. All delivered in a striking package augmenting the GSX-R’s 35+ year legacy of championship-winning sportbike performance.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver.
Key points of the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R include:
A compact inline four-cylinder engine produces an exciting powerband thanks to the Suzuki Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system.
Advanced electronics, like Launch Control and the Bi-Directional Quick Shift System, augment riding performance.
Twin-spar aluminum frame with adjustable swingarm pivot carrying Showa Balance Free Front Fork (BFF) and rear shock for confident high-performance handling.
Stainless steel brake lines feed the ABS-equipped Brembo 4-piston front calipers for extraordinary stopping performance and lever feel.
Superb wind protection and aerodynamics with an LED headlight and Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD) ducts.
Advance and distinctive LED position lights.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Metallic Matte Black and Glass Sparkle Black.
For 2023, the GSX-R1000R rules the street or track in three color options. A historic Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver paint scheme evocative of Suzuki’s MotoGP bikes, a stunning Metallic Matte Black and Glass Sparkle Black, or a Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue paint scheme. MSRP is $18,199. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.
GSX-R1000 – In 1985, Suzuki revolutionized the sportbike category with the introduction of the original GSX-R750, and then created another milestone in 2001 with the introduction of the GSX-R1000. The GSX-R1000 features the lightweight chassis of the GSX-R750 and a 988cc inline four-cylinder engine design.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.
The 2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000’s inline 4-cylinder engine provides power delivered smoothly and controllably across a broad rpm range. Like the original GSX-R1000, the 2023’s compact, light, and strong chassis deliver precise high-performance handling and excellent suspension feel combined with stellar braking control. All combined to help riders conquer a racetrack or a country road with confidence. Advanced electronic rider aids such as Traction Control and a Bi-Directional Quick Shifter augment the riding experience while the distinctive, aerodynamic GSX-R bodywork offers styling that continues to turn heads.
Equipped with Showa’s Big-Piston Fork plus Brembo T-drive rotors and Monobloc brake calipers, the GSX-R1000 help deliver the sort of performance and confidence a sport rider’s favorite canyon road ride or local track day demand.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000 in Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.
For 2023, the GSX-R1000 is available in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black liveries. MSRP is $16,149. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.
GSX-R750 – On the road or on the track since 1985, the GSX-R750 features a pairing of 750cc performance with the lightweight, compact chassis of a 600cc Supersport, complemented by technologically advanced suspension front and rear. The 2023 GSX-R750 is the latest expression of the GSX-R’s original concept.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver.
The 2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 is available in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver, Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray. MSRP is $12,849. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.
GSX-R600 – The 2023 GSX-R600 underscores the GSX-R’s tradition of blending championship-winning track performance with impeccable handling.
The GSX-R600’s compact, four-cylinder engine reacts with vigor when a rider demands it, while its supremely refined suspension and brakes provide precise, responsive confidence-inspiring handling. The superb ergonomics enhance rider control and comfort, and the iconic GSX-R bodywork delivers an agile look.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray.
The GSX-R600’s race-ready look isn’t manufactured, it’s the byproduct of the GSX-R’s multiple decades of producing road racing dominance. The Suzuki GSX-R600 is designed for riders considering a mid-size supersport bike at home, on the track, or on the street.
Key features for the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 include:
Iconic, GSX-R styling with three distinctive paint schemes.
Fuel-injected, 599cc, 4-cylinder engine delivering championship-delivering power from idle to redline.
Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) lets the rider adjust the power delivery.
Twin-spar aluminum frame and Showa Big Piston Fork deliver exceptional handling.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver.
2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.
Paint options include Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue, Glass Sparkle Black and Glass Matte Mechanical Gray, and Suzuki’s historic Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver paint scheme. MSRP is $11,699. Click here for more details.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S
GSX-S1000 – The 2023 GSX-S1000 now aims to deliver greater controllability, agility, and power while complying with worldwide emissions standards. The GSX-S1000’s physique comes in a tight and striking package.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in new Glass Sparkle Black.
The GSX-S1000’s styling features include stacked LED headlights housed in a minimalistic cowling that resides between a pair of MotoGP-inspired winglets protruding from the angular radiator shrouds.
Riders can keep that power of the GSX-R-based engine under control with the electronic Ride-by-Wire throttle bodies and the latest version of the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) that smooths shifting and engine braking.
There’s more GSX-R DNA in the chassis with its aluminum, twin-spar frame design, and superbike-braced swingarm. The suspension features a fully adjustable, inverted KYB fork and easy-to-adjust rear shock. Stopping performance is stellar via the dual, ABS-equipped, radial-mounted, four-piston Brembo front brake calipers and 310mm floating rotors. Wider than the prior generation model, the cast-aluminum handlebar provides a comfortable reach and the proper leverage to hustle the GSX-S1000 through the corners and maneuver in tight city streets and traffic.
The 2023 GSX-S1000 has the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) in its corner. Make this bike your own using the three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector and the five-mode (and OFF) Advanced Traction Control System. Give your clutch hand a rest with the Bi-Directional Quick Shift system. Suzuki’s popular Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems get the fun started without any hassle.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in Metallic Triton Blue.
The 2023 GSX-S1000 comes in Metallic Triton Blue and the new Glass Sparkle Black. MSRP is $11,499. Visit the Suzuki website for more details.
2023 Suzuki SV650 and V-Strom 650 Adventure Series
SV650/SV650 ABS – Since the first SV650 launched in 1999, this iconic middleweight has seen continual improvements while still embodying the sporty ride, precise feel, and riding versatility and prowess only a provocative, mid-sized V-twin roadster delivers.
2023 Suzuki SV650 ABS in Metallic Reflective Blue.
The 2023 SV650 and SV650 ABS use an entertaining and refined engine delivering torquey middleweight performance, low emissions, and outstanding fuel economy. This enjoyable V-twin mill is mounted in a trim and lightweight chassis delivering a keen and spirited riding experience.
For 2023, the SV650 is available in Glass Sparkle Black and Solid Iron Gray bodywork, while the SV650 ABS features Metallic Reflective Blue bodywork.
Both SV650s’ great looks and sparkling performance deliver sportbike-like handling, exceedingly great value, and riding versatility that a broad range of riders continues to embrace, whether they are new to the sport, growing their riding skills or avid road racers; the confidence-inspiring Suzuki SV650 is their ideal ride.
2023 Suzuki SV650 in Glass Sparkle Black and Solid Iron Gray.
Key features of the 2023 Suzuki SV650/ABS include:
Suzuki EFI system with Low RPM Assist makes takeoffs smooth and pleasant.
Steel trellis-style frame blends low weight and strength for nimble handling.
Slim bodywork is aesthetically pleasing while aiding comfort and maneuverability.
Dual 4-piston front brake calipers and compact ABS** system (SV650 ABS) help provide great stopping performance.
V-Strom 650XT Adventure – Point the iconic Suzuki DR-BIG-inspired beak of the V-Strom at the horizon as the 37L quick-release aluminum panniers, rugged accessory bar, handlebar cross-brace, and mirror extensions are standard equipment. Finished with deep, Glass Sparkle Black paint, the 2023 V-Strom 650XT Adventure performs on tubeless-spoke wheels with blue-anodized rims conveying style, strength, and performance.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black.
Loaded with intelligent features and ready for any adventure, the V-Strom 650XT Adventure continues the V-Strom legacy of offering a fun, agile, adventurous motorcycle providing unmatched versatility. The engine delivers stellar performance and great fuel economy while achieving worldwide emission standards. Suzuki’s proven engineering delivers a bike with low weight and a trim chassis, creating a V-Strom 650XT Adventure that does so many things so well, this bike could be called the Swiss Army Knife of motorcycles.
V-Strom 650XT – Riders love the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT for its unique merger of a lightweight chassis coupled with an exciting liquid-cooled, 90-degree, 650cc, V-twin engine. A merger that creates a perfectly balanced motorcycle capable of delivering excitement, comfort, and confidence on every ride.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT in Pearl Brilliant White.
V-Strom 650XT riders see it delivering on motorcycling adventure while bringing a big dose of intelligence and versatility. The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT comes in a Pearl Brilliant White livery and is complemented by hand guards, a lower engine cowl, as well as spoke-style gold-anodized wheels mounting tubeless radial dual-sport tires.
V-Strom 650 –The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is the perfect motorcycle for riders looking for versatility, real-world performance, and exceptional value. The 2023 V-Strom 650’s perfect blend of V-twin performance in a strong, yet lightweight chassis that delivers thrilling rides and cost-effective fun like no other adventure tourer on the scene today.
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 650 in Pearl Vigor Blue and Metallic Matte Sword Silver.
The 2023 V-Strom 650 rocks Suzuki’s beautiful Pearl Vigor Blue and Metallic Matte Sword Silver paint complemented with black accents giving this model runway-level attractiveness. The beak-style fairing, with vertically stacked headlights, augments the V-Strom 650’s aerodynamic prowess while protecting the rider in style. Light and strong 10-spoke cast wheels shod with Adventure-spec Bridgestone Battlax 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless radial tires are great for all-around performance.
Already the leader in its category, the 2023 Suzuki Burgman 400 continues with a host of styling, technical, and feature updates galvanizing its reputation as the Elegant Athlete of the scooter world. The Burgman 400’s slim and sharp styling features a new Solid Iron Gray paint scheme combined with blue wheels and seat stitching that pay classy homage to Suzuki’s on-road championship heritage.
2023 Suzuki Burgman 400 in Solid Iron Gray.
The Burgman’s nose and tail blend sophisticated styling with full LED function, as the dual headlights have integrated position lights, while the rear combination taillight elegantly blends with the smooth bodywork. Functional design is brought to the well-thought-out instrument panel. Riding range and real-time fuel consumption indicators also may help the rider conserve fuel.
The Burgman’s strong and responsive 400cc engine has a revised camshaft profile and a dual-spark technology ignition system achieving worldwide emissions standards while offering impressive fuel economy and highway riding power.
Similar to systems used on Suzuki’s V-Strom 650 adventure tourer and GSX-S750 street bikes, the Burgman features a rider-selectable Traction Control system offering the rider peace of mind and excellent road-holding ability in a variety of road conditions. Suzuki’s Easy Start System is a standard Burgman feature, so a simple, momentary press of the starter button starts the engine, while the fuel injection maintains a steady, smooth idle under all conditions.
The large-diameter 15-inch cast front wheel helps increase stability while enhancing the Burgman 400’s visual appearance and carries a pair of 260mm disc brake rotors. The 13-inch rear wheel has a 210mm hydraulic disc brake for reliable stopping control. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) monitors wheel speeds and hydraulic pressure hundreds of times per second to help provide stopping power that matches the available traction.
For the past 32 years, Rider has selected a Motorcycle of the Year. With the exception of two years when we made a People’s Choice selection by popular vote among readers (the Honda F6B in 2013 and the BMW R 1200 RT in 2014), it has been up to the Rider editorial team to choose a winner based on our collective experience with the year’s eligible contenders.
We ride as many of the new or significantly updated motorcycles released over the past year as possible, and we evaluate them within the context of their intended use.
Since we announced last year’s winner, we’ve tested cruisers, baggers, sportbikes, adventure bikes, naked bikes, minibikes, sport-tourers, luxury-tourers, cafe racers, standards, dual-sports, and even an electric dirtbike for kids.
Narrowing down such a diverse range of motorcycles into a single “best” isn’t easy. Our goal is to identify the one that best fulfills its intended purpose and advances the state of motorcycle design, performance, and function.
We haven’t always hit the mark. The BMW K1 we selected as our first MOTY in 1990 proved to be a flop, and the forkless Yamaha GTS1000 we selected in 1993 was the answer to a question no one asked.
Even if some of the selections we’ve made don’t stand the test of time, we stand by them because they were impressive motorcycles within the context of their eras. Others are easier to defend, like the 2001 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing, the 2002 Suzuki V-Strom 1000, the 2005 BMW R 1200 GS, and the 2017 Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Touring lineup.
For 2022, there were more than 60 eligible contenders. We narrowed them down to 10 finalists and one ultimate winner.
Winner of Rider’s 2012 MOTY award, BMW’s top-of-the-line luxury-tourer got its most significant update yet for 2022. Its ultra-smooth 1,649cc inline-Six makes 160 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque, its full suite of electronic rider aids was upgraded, and it has a huge 10.25-inch TFT, an air-conditioned smartphone compartment, and other new comfort and convenience features.
Competing head-to-head with the Kawasaki Versys 650LT, the all-new 650 ADVentura is powered by a 649cc parallel-Twin that makes 60 hp and 41 lb-ft of torque. It has an adjustable windscreen, a TFT display, LED lighting, a slip/assist clutch, standard ABS, Pirelli Angel GT sport-touring tires, and hard-shell saddlebags. At $6,799, it undercuts the Kawasaki by $3,200.
2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak. Photo by David Schelske.
The range-topping Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak’s 1,158cc Grandturismo V4 cranks out 170 hp and 92 lb-ft of torque, and its apex-strafing game gets elevated with a new Race mode and revised quickshifter. It’s equipped with a full electronics package (including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection), Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers, and more.
2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The spiritual successor to the air-cooled Evo-powered Sportster, the all-new Nightster is a performance cruiser built on Harley’s modular liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine platform, in this case with a 975cc V-Twin with variable valve timing that produces 90 hp. Classic styling cues include a peanut “tank” (actually an airbox cover), a round air intake cover, and exposed rear shocks.
Toeing the line between a twist-and-go scooter and a step-over motorcycle, the all-new Honda Navi borrows the fan-cooled 109cc Single and CVT transmission from the Activa 6G scooter and the Grom’s popular design language. The 8-hp Navi weighs just 236 lb, has a 30-inch seat height, and is priced at just $1,807, making it an ideal gateway to the world of motorcycling.
Indian’s Challenger bagger, powered by the liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 V-Twin that makes 108 hp and 113 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel, was Rider’s 2020 MOTY. Touring capability gets a boost on the Pursuit Limited (or Dark Horse), which adds fairing lowers, a tall adjustable windscreen, a Touring Comfort seat, heated grips, and a trunk with an integrated passenger backrest.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke Evo. Photo by Kevin Wing.
Known as “The Beast,” the 1290 Super Duke R added “Evo” to its name and was updated with WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension available with six modes and automatic preload adjustment, a revised throttle-by-wire system, and more. Its 1,301cc V-Twin cranks out 180 hp and 103 lb-ft of torque, and its electronics allow riders to tame or unleash The Beast as they see fit.
2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350. Photo by Brandon Bunch.
The Classic 350 brings back the styling that made the Royal Enfield Bullet – built from 1931-2020 – such an iconic bike and pairs it with a 349cc air-/oil-cooled, SOHC, 2-valve, fuel-injected Single with a 5-speed gearbox. Available in nine color-style combinations and priced as low as $4,599, the Classic 350 is the embodiment of simple, fun, affordable motorcycling.
2023 Triumph Tiger 1200. Photo by Kingdom Creative.
Triumph completely revamped its Tiger 1200 adventure bike platform for the 2023 model year, shaving off 55 lb of weight, bolting in a 147-hp Triple from the Speed Triple, and equipping it with a new chassis and upgraded electronics. Five variants are available: the street-focused GT, GT Pro, and GT Explorer and the off-road-ready Rally Pro and Rally Explorer.
At the top of Yamaha’s Hyper Naked pecking order is the MT-10, a descendent of the FZ1 that was Rider’s 2006 MOTY. This “Master of Torque” is powered by a 160-hp crossplane inline-Four derived from the YZF-R1. It was updated for 2022 with new R1-derived electronics, upgraded brakes, revised styling and ergonomics, a new TFT display, and more.
And the 2022 Motorcycle of the Year Winner is…
SUZUKI GSX-S1000GT+
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
Here at Rider, we’re big fans of performance. That’s an often overused and general term, but it encapsulates so much of what we love about motorcycles. Powerful, thrilling engines. Strong, responsive chassis – everything from the frame to the suspension, brakes, and tires. And these days, electronic rider aids that allow responses to be tailored to different conditions or rider preferences.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
We’re street riders. We may do the occasional track day or school, but it’s usually to help us sharpen our skills so we can ride more confidently and safely on the street. We want performance that is exciting yet still manageable on public roads.
At the same time, we like to go the distance. Rider was started in 1974 just as the touring segment was taking off, and motorcycle travel has been one of the magazine’s hallmarks. We’ve tested thousands of motorcycles over the years, and we gravitate toward bikes that are comfortable, reliable, and versatile yet still get our performance juices flowing.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
Our 2021 Motorcycle of the Year was the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, an adventure-style sport-tourer that’s lighter and more affordable than traditional heavyweight sport-tourers like the BMW R 1250 RT, Yamaha FJR1300, and Kawasaki Concours 14 – every one of which has worn Rider’s MOTY crown at some point. In fact, eight of our 32 previous MOTY winners have been sport-tourers.
And now, make that nine. The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ (the ‘+’ denoting the model with standard saddlebags, whereas the base GT model goes without) delivers all the performance a street rider needs in a refined, comfortable, sophisticated package at a reasonable MSRP of $13,799. It checks all the right performance boxes while also being practical and providing – as George Carlin would say – a place for our stuff.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The GSX-S’s 999cc inline-Four is adapted from the GSX-R1000 K5, a bulletproof, championship-winning engine. Tuned for street duty, it churned out 136 hp at 10,200 rpm and 73 lb-ft of torque at 9,300 rpm on Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno.
As we said in our road test in the July issue, “The GSX-S engine is a gem with no rough edges. From cracking open the throttle above idle to twisting the grip to the stop, power comes on cleanly and predictably.”
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The GSX-S1000GT+ is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, which includes three ride modes that adjust throttle response, power delivery, traction control, cruise control, and other systems. It has the best up/down quickshifter we’ve ever tested, and thanks to its street-tuned, sportbike-spec chassis, the GT+ offers predictable handling, unflappable stability, and impeccable smoothness.
Touring amenities include comfortable rider and passenger seating, 25.7-liter side cases that can accommodate most full-face helmets, and a 6.5-inch full-color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity via Suzuki’s mySPIN smartphone app. With its angular sportbike styling, the GSX-S1000GT+ looks as fast as it goes, and the side cases can be easily removed for an even sportier look.
As we concluded in our road test, “The GSX-S1000GT+ strikes an excellent balance between performance, technology, weight, comfort, and price. Life is good when the scenery is a blur.”
Congratulations to Suzuki for the GSX-S1000GT+, Rider’s 2022 Motorcycle of the Year!
