Choosing the perfect sport touring motorcycle can be a thrilling yet daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in 2022. This guide dives deep into the top models, offering insights to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the sport touring scene, understanding the nuances of each bike will ensure you find the ideal match for your needs and preferences. So, let's gear up and explore the best sport touring motorcycles that 2022 has to offer!

Defining Sport Touring Motorcycles

Before we dive into specific models, let's clarify what exactly constitutes a sport touring motorcycle. These bikes are designed to blend the agility and performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality required for long-distance riding. Unlike pure sportbikes, which prioritize track performance, sport tourers offer a more relaxed riding position, better wind protection, and ample storage options. They also differ from traditional touring bikes, which focus primarily on comfort and cargo capacity, by providing a more engaging and dynamic riding experience.

Key characteristics of sport touring motorcycles include:

• Comfortable Ergonomics: A more upright riding position compared to sportbikes, reducing strain on the back and wrists during long rides.
• Wind Protection: Fairings and windscreens designed to deflect wind and weather, enhancing rider comfort.
• Storage Options: Integrated or aftermarket luggage systems for carrying gear and essentials.
• Powerful Engines: High-performance engines that deliver ample power for both spirited riding and effortless highway cruising.
• Advanced Technology: Features such as cruise control, heated grips, and electronic suspension to enhance rider convenience and safety.

Sport touring motorcycles are the chameleons of the motorcycle world, equally adept at carving through twisty mountain roads and devouring miles on the open highway. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all.

Top Sport Touring Motorcycles of 2022

Alright, guys, let's get into the meat of the matter: the top sport touring motorcycles that 2022 had to offer. I've compiled this list based on a mix of performance, comfort, features, and overall value.

1. BMW R 1250 RT

The BMW R 1250 RT is often considered the gold standard in the sport touring category, and for good reason. It combines powerful performance, luxurious comfort, and cutting-edge technology into one impressive package. At the heart of the R 1250 RT is BMW's iconic 1,254cc boxer engine, which delivers a smooth and torquey powerband perfect for long-distance cruising and spirited riding. The engine's ShiftCam technology optimizes valve timing and lift, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

Key features of the BMW R 1250 RT:

• ShiftCam Boxer Engine: Provides a broad and responsive powerband with excellent fuel efficiency.
• Dynamic ESA: Electronically adjustable suspension that adapts to changing road conditions for optimal comfort and handling.
• Riding Modes Pro: Customizable riding modes that allow you to tailor the bike's performance to your preferences.
• Large Fairing and Windscreen: Offers excellent wind and weather protection for long-distance comfort.
• Integrated Luggage System: Provides ample storage space for gear and essentials.
• Optional Features: Include adaptive cruise control, heated seats, and a premium sound system.

The R 1250 RT's riding position is upright and comfortable, making it ideal for long days in the saddle. The bike's spacious cockpit provides plenty of room to move around, and the adjustable windscreen allows you to fine-tune the level of wind protection. The integrated luggage system is both stylish and functional, providing ample storage space without compromising the bike's sleek appearance. Overall, the BMW R 1250 RT is a top-of-the-line sport tourer that offers a truly premium riding experience.

2. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a sport touring motorcycle that offers an exceptional blend of performance, features, and value. It's powered by Yamaha's thrilling 890cc CP3 engine, which delivers a punchy and responsive powerband that's perfect for both spirited riding and effortless highway cruising. The Tracer 9 GT's lightweight chassis and sporty suspension provide agile handling, making it a blast to ride on twisty roads.

Key features of the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT:

• 890cc CP3 Engine: Delivers a broad and responsive powerband with excellent fuel efficiency.
• KYB Electronically Adjustable Suspension: Adapts to changing road conditions for optimal comfort and handling.
• Riding Modes: Customizable riding modes that allow you to tailor the bike's performance to your preferences.
• Hard Side Cases: Provides ample storage space for gear and essentials.
• Heated Grips: Keeps your hands warm in cold weather.
• Cruise Control: Makes long highway rides more comfortable.

The Tracer 9 GT's riding position is upright and comfortable, making it ideal for long days in the saddle. The bike's adjustable windscreen provides good wind protection, and the heated grips and cruise control enhance rider comfort on long rides. The hard side cases offer ample storage space for gear and essentials, making the Tracer 9 GT a practical choice for touring. Overall, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a versatile and well-rounded sport tourer that offers excellent value for money.

3. Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ is a versatile sport touring motorcycle designed for riders who demand both comfort and performance. Its powerful 1,043cc inline-four engine delivers smooth and responsive power, making it equally capable of tackling twisty mountain roads and long highway stretches. The Versys 1000 SE LT+'s comfortable ergonomics, ample wind protection, and generous storage capacity make it an ideal companion for long-distance adventures.

Key features of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+:

• 1,043cc Inline-Four Engine: Delivers smooth and responsive power.
• Electronic Suspension: Provides a comfortable and controlled ride.
• Riding Modes: Customizable riding modes that allow you to tailor the bike's performance to your preferences.
• Hard Saddlebags: Offers ample storage space for gear and essentials.
• Heated Grips: Keeps your hands warm in cold weather.
• Cornering Management Function: Assists riders in maintaining their intended line through corners.

The Versys 1000 SE LT+'s upright riding position and adjustable windscreen provide excellent comfort and wind protection, while the spacious saddlebags offer plenty of room for luggage. The electronic suspension automatically adjusts to road conditions, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. Overall, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ is a well-equipped and versatile sport tourer that's ready for anything.

4. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a sport touring motorcycle that takes a different approach to the category. Instead of prioritizing comfort above all else, the Super Duke GT aims to deliver a thrilling and engaging riding experience while still offering reasonable comfort for longer rides. It's powered by KTM's fire-breathing 1,301cc V-twin engine, which delivers monstrous power and torque throughout the rev range. The Super Duke GT's sporty chassis and aggressive styling make it a standout in the sport touring segment.

Key features of the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT:

• 1,301cc V-Twin Engine: Delivers massive power and torque.
• WP Semi-Active Suspension: Provides a comfortable and controlled ride.
• Riding Modes: Customizable riding modes that allow you to tailor the bike's performance to your preferences.
• Lean-Angle Sensitive Traction Control: Helps prevent wheelspin and maintain stability in corners.
• Cruise Control: Makes long highway rides more comfortable.
• Integrated Saddlebags: Offers reasonable storage space for gear and essentials.

The Super Duke GT's riding position is more aggressive than other sport tourers, but it's still comfortable enough for long rides. The bike's adjustable windscreen provides decent wind protection, and the optional heated grips enhance rider comfort in cold weather. The integrated saddlebags offer enough storage space for a weekend trip, but they're not as spacious as those found on more touring-oriented bikes. Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a unique and exciting sport tourer that's perfect for riders who want a thrilling and engaging riding experience.

Choosing the Right Sport Touring Motorcycle for You

Selecting the right sport touring motorcycle depends heavily on your individual needs and riding style. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• Riding Style: Do you prefer a more relaxed and comfortable ride, or do you want a sportier and more engaging experience?
• Typical Trip Length: Do you primarily take short day trips, or do you embark on long-distance adventures?
• Budget: Sport touring motorcycles range in price from relatively affordable to quite expensive. Determine how much you're willing to spend before you start shopping.
• Features: What features are most important to you? Do you need heated grips, cruise control, electronic suspension, or a large storage capacity?
• Test Ride: The best way to determine if a particular motorcycle is right for you is to take it for a test ride. This will allow you to assess its comfort, handling, and overall performance.

Final Thoughts

The sport touring motorcycle segment offers a diverse range of options for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, or value, there's a sport tourer out there that's perfect for you. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, and by doing your research, you can find the ideal sport touring motorcycle to enhance your riding experience. So, get out there, test ride some bikes, and discover the joy of sport touring!