Many individuals ride motorcycles as urban transportation, despite the fact that many motorcycle enthusiasts like riding them for recreation, sports, and hobbies.
The majority of people do not need them for extended trips through the mountains or for cruising around the city; rather, they only require them for traveling from one location to another or for traveling to a local grocery store when they need to acquire a couple of things.
Although there are numerous motorcycles available, not all of them are made for this use. You must get a bike that is made for commuting if you intend to use it for that reason. The greatest commuter motorcycles that you may use to travel to your job, college, the supermarket, on the interstate and more will be discussed in this article. See our professional selections by reading on.
Table of Contents
The Best Commuter Motorcycle
The Yamaha Tracer 700 is the motorcycle we suggest most highly. It is the intended use for this commuter motorcycle. Thanks to its strong engine, precise cornering abilities, small construction, and security features, you may ride it through the city with no problems.
Top 10 Best Commuter Motorcycles
The Top Commuter Motorcycles Are As Follows:
10. Moto Guzzi V85TT
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine size: 853cc |
| Engine type: Transverse 90° V twin, two valves per cylinder |
| Fuel capacity: 23 liters |
| Bike weight: 229kg |
| Tank range: 288 miles |
There are many who believe that any recent Guzzi would make an excellent commuting motorcycle; hence, I decided to go ahead and selected the model that has become my personal favorite. Even though the V85TT is designed as an ADV bike, isn’t going to job a bit of an adventure?
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Everyone at least 5’6″ tall can sit comfortably, but the 6.7 inches of excellent suspension at both sides softens asphalt bumps.
It has a windshield, is quite comfy, and has cruise control. It’s not too heavy at 540 pounds wet, has a reasonable fuel capacity of 5.5 gallons, and gets 39 mpg. Bark busters are excellent when lane-splitting turns into a fight, but unlike some ADVs, the TT’s handlebar isn’t too broad.
As you log more miles, you’ll come to like adjusting Guzzi valves, and shaft drive allows you to avoid conversations about chain lubrication entirely.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Great ADV bike | Has a small windshield |
| Excellent suspension | |
| Good for longer trips | |
| Cruise control | |
| Large fuel capacity |
Final Conclusion
Moto Guzzi V85TT is a great commuting motorcycle that will give you an excellent commuting experience.
Score: 7.7
9. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine Type: 890cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder; 4 valves per cylinder |
| Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gal |
| Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection with YCC-T |
| Ignition: TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition |
| Transmission: 6-speed; multiplate assist and slipper clutch |
It has a new KYB electronic suspension, an IMU, an up/down quickshifter, standard hard luggage, a new 3.5-inch TFT screen, cruise control, and other features that Yamaha is branding Tracer 9 GT. Priced at $14,899.
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According to Yamaha, even with all of that equipment, the bike weighs only 485 pounds wet and does not include the side cases.
We also have a 5-gallon hat that is said to get 49 mpg. The 2019 900 GT was designed as a lightweight sport tourer. The same slim, light, torquey power which makes it a superb tourer should also make it the best commuter.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Great design | A bit pricey |
| Comfortable | |
| Ideal power-to-weight ratio | |
| One of the best bikes for beginners | |
| Easy to ride |
Final Conclusion
Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a lightweight sports tourer that will make your rider comfortable, and this is especially important if you plan to use it every day for your commute. This bike definitely deserves to be on this list because of all of its characteristics. If you buy this bike, you will almost certainly be amazed.
Score: 7.9
8. Kawasaki Versys 650
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine: 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled, 4 valves per cylinder parallel twin |
| Ignition: TCBI with electronic advance |
| Frame Type: Double pipe diamond frame constructed from high-tensile steel |
| Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gal |
| Fuel System: DFI® with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies (2) |
The Versys is only a contented, cozy little bike that only wants to please its rider. The Versys is hard to beat as a commuter because it is so cozy, athletic, and reasonably light at 454 lbs with 5.5 gallons of petrol and delivering around 45 mpg.
You can get a brand new one from Kawasaki for $8,399, but any model from 2015 or later will suffice. That was the year that we got big changes, along with a rubber engine-mount system, which truly made the midrange “flexible structure” even more magnificent.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Athletic look | Not suitable for short riders due to high seat height |
| ABS | |
| Comfortable for longer rides | |
| Excellent performance | |
| Good for beginners |
Final Conclusion
Kawasaki Versys 650 is another motorcycle on this list that deserves to be listed as one of the top 10 commuting motorcycles. This motorcycle is reliable, easy to steer, and a great choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
Score: 8.0
7. Husqvarna Svartpilen 701
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine: design 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine |
| Displacement: 692.7 cm³ |
| Frame design: Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated |
| Clutch: APTC(TM) slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated |
| Seat height: 835 mm |
It may only have one cylinder, but its 75 horsepower and dual counterbalanced design make it more potent and refined than many twins while yet returning respectable fuel economy (about 50 miles per gallon). Husqvarna has 4.9 inches of excellent suspension at both ends for ignoring road bumps thanks to its dirtbike heritage.
Surprisingly, the wide seat is comfortable. The Svart can break the tightest traffic because of its reported weight of 349 pounds. The tank’s flat top begs for a tank bag, and Husqvarna carries a variety of windscreens.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Ideal power to weight ratio | A bit pricey |
| Cool design | |
| Easy to ride | |
| A great choice for beginners | |
| Perfect for everyday commuting |
Final Conclusion
Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is a great choice for beginner riders who use their bikes for everyday commuters. It is a light motorcycle and has an ideal power-to-weight ratio, which makes it one of the best choices on the market.
Score: 8.0
6. Honda MSX125 Grom
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine Type: Air-cooled 2-valve single cylinder |
| Max. Torque: 11.1Nm / 6,000 rpm |
| Max. Power Output: 7.4kW / 7,250 rpm |
| Fuel Consumption: 66.7 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (Liters): 6 liters |
Due to its outstanding performance, the Honda MSX125 Grom was selected as the best bike on my list. This is one of the best bikes to think about if you’re seeking the ideal motorcycle to ride around town. This motorcycle has a single-cylinder, air-cooled, 125cc engine that is virtually unbreakable.
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Although this engine may not seem like much, it offers a useful and fantastic riding experience.
This bike is adored by many people due to its simple handling, affordable pricing, and astonishing torque. It is an excellent alternative for commuting because it does a great job of conserving fuel. The bike is compact, lightweight, and unimposing.
Both experienced riders and novices will find it to be great. It is incredibly simple to move and control.
Every novice rider can manage this motorcycle’s top speed of more than 60 mph. It is offered in two different configurations, one of which also has ABS. The power capacity of this bike is 7.2 kW at 7,250 RPM and 10.5 Nm at 5,500 RPM.
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5-spoke aluminum cast MT 2.5-12 wheels are used on the front and back wheels. A steel mono-backbone frame is included with it. This motorcycle has a 1.6-gallon fuel capacity and a 1.1-liter oil capacity. It has a height-adjustable seat that is incredibly comfortable at 29.5 inches. The seat is perfect for both male and female riders and encourages proper sitting postures.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Small fuel consumption | Has a low top speed |
| Lightweight bike | Engine is weaker in comparison to other commuting bikes |
| Perfect choice for beginners | |
| One of the best choices for short-distance ridings | |
Final Conclusion
Honda MSX125 Grom is one of the best choices for short-distance riding. It has small fuel consumption and its lightweight makes it an ideal choice for commuting and going on short-distance rides like going to your local grocery store or school.
Score: 8.3
5. Ducati Monster 821
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| DISPLACEMENT: 821 cc |
| POWER: 80 kW (109 hp) @ 9,250 rpm |
| DRY WEIGHT: 180,5 kg (398 lb) |
| TORQUE: 8.8 kgm (86 Nm/ 63 lb-ft) @ 7,750 rpm |
| SAFETY EQUIPMENT: Riding Modes, Power Modes, Ducati Safety Pack (Bosch ABS + Ducati Traction Control DTC) |
The Ducati Monster 821 is a fantastic alternative to take into consideration if you’re seeking the greatest bike to commute over shorter areas.
This motorcycle is an excellent choice for both experienced riders and beginners because of how lightweight and maneuverable it is. You will have a terrific commute thanks to its supersport-level technology and control capabilities.
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The vehicle’s engine is built for speed and is ideal for cruising the open road. The engine in this motorcycle is a Testastretta 11-degree, 937cc, liquid-cooled engine with 4 valves per cylinder.
111 HP and 93 Nm of maximum torque are produced by the engine at 9,250 and 6,500 revolutions per minute, respectively. It has wheels made of premium materials and a front frame built of aluminum alloy.
The seat height is 32.3 inches, and it was made with proper posture in mind. Additionally, it is made to keep you at ease on both rocky and flat terrain. With 3.7 gallons of gasoline capacity, it’s a considerable amount. Along with many other safety features, this bike has Ducati wheelie control, traction control, cornering ABS, power modes, riding modes, and daytime running lights.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Very maneuverable bike | A bit pricey |
| ABS cornering | Expensive reserve parts |
| Riding modes | |
| Lightweight | |
| A great choice for beginners |
Final Conclusion
Ducati Monster 821 definitely deserves to be on this list, mostly because it is a beginner-friendly bike that offers a comfortable ride. It has great performance and maneuverable abilities. The only thing that can present a problem in choosing this bike is its expensive parts, so this is definitely a thing to keep in mind if you decide to buy this motorcycle.
Score: 8.5
4. BMW G 310 GS
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine: Water-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, four valves, two overhead camshafts, and wet sump lubrication |
| Capacity: 313 cc |
| Clutch: Multi-disc oil bath (anti-hopping) with self-reinforcement |
| Frame: Tubular space frame |
| ABS: BMW Motorrad ABS |
The BMW G 310 GS is a sleek commuter motorcycle that you should take into consideration. Due to its lightweight design, efficient engine, and sturdy construction, this motorcycle is among the best for commuting.
A 313cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine with four valves powers the BMW G310 GS. The engine achieves excellent performance with a peak output of 34 horsepower at 9,500 revolutions per minute (RPM), and a peak torque of 28 Nm at 7,500 RPM.
Although this motorcycle is modest, it has a high top speed and can stay consistent with other vehicles. It offers excellent off-road performance as well. You should be able to use it to ride on a few easy trails as well as some gravel tracks.
The suspension and wheels are built for rougher terrain. This bike includes sophisticated ABS as well as some excellent instrumentation.
This vehicle’s overall road presence is one of its main selling points. Without being pushed aside by larger vehicles, you can ride it on the interstate or anyplace in the city. The bike is reasonably priced, so buying one shouldn’t be a problem. It has a six-speed constant-mesh gearbox built right into the motor casing. Cast aluminum is used to make the wheels.
The seat of this vehicle is height-adjustable, stretching from 32.3 inches to 33.5 inches. With a reserve of around 0.3 gallons, the fuel capacity is 2.9 gallons. This vehicle has a typical gear weight of 387 pounds and a maximum permissible weight of 761 pounds.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Good choice for beginner riders | Costs a lot |
| Nice style and design | Not the best choice if you ride on roads in bad conditions |
| Good power-to-weight ratio | |
| The bike is extremely maneuverable | |
| Lightweight bike |
Final Conclusion
BMW G 310 GS is one of the best commuter motorcycles on this list. Since this motorcycle is lightweight, it makes it ideal for beginner riders. BMW is known for its quality motorcycles, which means that by choosing this bike, you are choosing a very reliable motorcycle that will serve you well on everyday rides.
Score: 9.0
3. Suzuki SV650 ABS
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine: 645cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90˚, V-twin |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 L (3.8 US gal.) |
| Curb Weight: 198 kg (437.0 lb.) |
| Ignition: Electronic ignition (transistorized) |
| Clutch: Wet, multi-plate type |
The Suzuki SV650 ABS is the next motorcycle, and it’s still another top-notch commuter bike available. It is the most recent addition to Suzuki’s V-twin roadster all-arounder. This motorcycle offers the ideal blend of captivating performance, approachable behavior, and outstanding value.
This is a fantastic middleweight all-arounder since it is useful, adaptable, and simple to ride. The motorcycle’s finishing is excellent as well, with lovely wheels, colors, and a nice frame design.
This machine offers a lot in terms of performance. It features a liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin, 4-stroke engine that is 645cc in displacement.
The 6-speed, constant-mesh transmission employs a wet, multi-plate clutch. Both the front and the rear brakes have ABS, and the front brake has a dual, 4-piston caliper, dual disc, while the rear brake has a single, 1-piston, single disc. This motorcycle can hold 3.8 gallons of gasoline. The curb weight is 437 pounds, and the seat height is 30.9 inches.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Comfortable | Heavyweight |
| Strong engine | Since it is a bit heavy, this model may not be the best for beginners |
| Good for experienced riders |
Final Conclusion
The Suzuki SV650 ABS is a motorcycle that offers outstanding performance, has great value, and performs well in everyday commuting. If you ride every day to work or you are looking for a bike for your short city rides, this bike is your ideal choice.
Score: 9.5
2. Triumph Bonneville T100
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine: Liquid-cooled, 8 valves, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Capacity: 900 cc |
| Frame: Tubular steel, with twin cradles |
| Clutch: Wet, multi-plate torque assist clutch |
| Tank Capacity: 3.8 US gal (14.5 liters) |
| Fuel Consumption: 68.9 mpg (4.1 L / 100km) |
When you need a reliable motorcycle to get about the city, choose the Triumph Bonneville T100. One of the features that make this motorcycle so popular with riders is its versatility.
The peg placement and seat height on this bike are the ideal combos. It has excellent visibility and ergonomics because the pegs are positioned directly under the feet.
For your comfort, while handling, this motorcycle also has heated handgrips. It had a 900cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 8 valve engine. The engine produces a maximum of 80 Nm of torque at 3,230 RPM and 55 HP of power at 5,900 RPM. It has a 5-speed transmission and a wet, multi-plate assist clutch.
It has a dual cradle structure made of lightweight, highly robust tubular steel. The handlebars’ width is 28.1 inches, while the seat’s height is 31.1 inches. The dry weight of this bike is 470 pounds, which makes it somewhat heavy. With a maximum gasoline capacity of 3.8 gallons, it has a big fuel capacity.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| ABS | This bike doesn’t have a windscreen |
| Heated hand grips | |
| Big fuel capacity |
Final Conclusion
This motorcycle has a great seat height and peg position and is one of the best choices for everyday commuter riding. Choosing a motorcycle will make your commute pretty easy and comfortable. You won’t miss it if you choose this bike.
Score: 9.7
1. Yamaha Tracer 700
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|
| Engine layout: Parallel twin |
| Engine details: DOHC, 8v, liquid-cooled |
| Torque: 50.1lb-ft (68Nm) @ 6500rpm |
| Power: 73.8bhp (55kW) @ 9000rpm |
| Tank size: 17 liters |
In the world of motorcycles, Yamaha is the most dependable manufacturer. Many of the best motorcycles in various classes and for various uses are produced by this company.
On a variety of roads, the Yamaha Tracer 700 performs admirably, making it the top option for many commuters. This vehicle has a decently high perch that offers a wonderful view of the road when you’re riding.
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It is equipped with a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve engine that is 689 cc in capacity. The machine produces a maximum of 68 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM and 55 kW of power at 9,000 RPM. This vehicle is a fantastic choice for zipping around town thanks to its powerful power and excellent torque.
Its low gravity center and broad handlebars give you gradual, precise control. You can easily slip through traffic gaps thanks to these features. One of this motorcycle’s primary qualities is how comfortable it is in general.
It offers exceptional comfort, allowing you to ride for extended periods of time without having any back or waist discomfort. The motorcycle’s overall height is 50 inches, while the seat height is 32.8 inches. With a 4.5-gallon gas tank, this bike has a sizable fuel supply. This motorcycle weighs 432 pounds when the tank and oil are both full.
| ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
|---|---|
| Outstanding power to weight ration | One of the most expensive models in its class |
| Sport looking style | |
| Great for beginners and experienced riders | |
| Sport performance |
Final Conclusion
This motorcycle has a low gravity center and a wide handlebar, which makes it stable and comfortable on the road. Riding this motorcycle is very easy, which makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Score: 10.0
What to Take Into Account When Buying a Commuting Bike?
Here are the most important factors that you need to consider when choosing your commuter bike:
1. Total Weight
One more crucial factor to take into account is the motorcycle’s weight. Since commuter bikes aren’t intended for harsh terrain touring, they don’t need to be very heavy.
Note: They are not being used for traveling or cruising. You should choose lightweight models as a result. To put it another way: the less weight, the better. New riders find it simpler to ride commuter bikes as well.
2. Size
The size of the bike is an important factor to take into account while choosing one for traveling to a job, college, the supermarket, or across the city. Motorcycles come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Motorcycles used for commuting aren’t designed to be big and sturdy.
Note: The top commuter motorcycles are lightweight and tiny. You can navigate streets and sharp turns with ease because of their modest and compact form. With a little motorcycle, almost every street is accessible.
3. Safety Options
Your top priority should always be your safety in all you do. Considering that you will be riding this motorcycle in areas that are frequented by other people, you will want to ensure that it is secure not only for you but also for the other individuals in the area.
You need to make absolutely sure the motorcycle has numerous excellent safety features in order to accomplish this. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is the first item, and perhaps one of the most crucial things, that you need to keep an eye out for.
When traveling through the city, this safety mechanism is crucial, therefore you want to confirm that your motorcycle has it.
4. Controlling
You need to make sure that the motorcycle has excellent maneuverability because you will spend most of your time riding it in the town.
Note: The handlebars should be wide, and the bike should be very simple to manage and move. The bike shouldn’t make you any trouble turning quickly and often.
Conclusion
These are our top picks for the ideal motorcycle for commuting within the city. A bike made specifically for commuting is what you need when searching for a motorcycle. It must have all of the ideal qualities and characteristics in the ideal locations.
If I had to pick just one bike to suggest, the Yamaha Tracer 700 would be it because it has so many amazing features and is suitable for both novice and experienced riders.