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Ranking The Best Commuter Motorcycle Models On The Market!

We Examine The Best Commuter Motorcycles For All Types Of Commuters

2019 Ducati Monster 821 Side View

Assessing the best commuter motorcycle models on the market is always a tricky business. “Commuting” means different things to different people. Some people consider an urban commute as a five minute journey up the road, while others have no problem with gearing up for an hour and half ride from the middle of nowhere into the nearest city center. What could be considered as a smart and economical commuter motorcycle for one of those riders might not be the ideal weapon of choice for the other.

Ranking The Best Commuter Motorcycle Models

Since the term “to commute” can be defined as the act of traveling some distance between a person’s home and their work place on a regular basis, how long is a commute then? Well, how long is a piece of string? As you can guess, there’s no easy answer, and there are even more factors to throw into the mix too. What road conditions will the commuter be facing? Do they live in a hot or cold country? And of course, what kind of budget are they working with? Finding the best commuter motorcycle isn’t a straightforward task.

To try and make this list as useful as possible, we’re going to divide it up into three sections, focusing on three different types of commuting: short hops, medium length trips, and longer journeys. Generally, we’ve found that these broad categories are the best way to define the different types of commuter too.

Motorcycle Commuter

For example, commuters who are only looking for a motorcycle for short journeys are probably more interested in smaller motorcycles with excellent fuel economy, with overall riding comfort not being a high priority. Similarly, riders who are looking at longer commutes are more likely to enjoy a motorcycle with bigger engines, better road presence, more accessories, storage space and other comfort options. Naturally, every single rider has different needs and wants, so hopefully this list features something for everyone.

Traveling by motorcycle is an economical way to commute, but it doesn’t give you the same kind of tax incentives that you get by riding a bicycle, or the additional benefits you can get by using Uber or Lyft. Still, riding a motorcycle to work is far more economical than taking even the most effective and efficient commuter cars out there, but it’s not nearly as practical. This is why it’s essential to choose a motorcycle that truly suits your needs.

What Makes A Good Commuter Motorcycle Anyway?

Motorcycle Commuter Parking Spaces

A good commuter motorcycle is going to be something reliable and economical, but with some added versatility. If economy was the only contributing factor, you’d take the bus, wouldn’t you? So, not only do you need a reliable ride, but you also need it to be more than just an economical option. Your ride might also need to double up as a fun machine for out of town trips at the weekend, or it might need to have added storage facilities to help you carry your groceries home after work. Since there are so many different things that can make or break the usefulness of a commuter motorcycle, let’s look at what doesn’t make a good commuter ride.

In short: a sports bike is probably not the best choice. Why? Well, we all love a sports bike and they’re great fun on nice empty roads with swooping corners where there’s ample space for causing trouble. They’re not so much fun in start/stop traffic. They’re not amazingly fun in the rain either. And when it comes to storing your packed lunch, there’s not a lot of luggage space. You certainly can ride a sport bike to and from work every day, but they’re a long, long way from being the best commuter motorcycles out there. So without further ado, let’s look at what commuter motorcycle options are the best options for you.

Ranking The Best Commuter Motorcycles

For Commuting Over Short Distances

Only hopping from one side of town to the other? If you’re in need of a commuter ride that’s only for short journeys, then you don’t need to invest big bucks into something with all the latest bells and whistles. Since you’re only covering short distances, no doubt in start/stop traffic, you want something small and nimble that you can use to dodge and weave your way through the city streets in an efficient and economical way. You probably don’t need expensive luggage options since you can always pop home in a hurry if you need something. As for weather protection and riding comfort, they’re frills you can probably live without. After all, you’re only going across town! However, you want a good return on your investment, so why not get something that’s fun too? Here are our top choices for versatile and fun small commuter motorcycles!

Honda Grom

2019 Honda Grom Side View

It’s an obvious choice, but it’s obvious for good reason: it’s the perfect small motorcycle for zipping around town on, with enough charm and character for any rider to get a thrill out of. Since it first arrived on the scene back in 2014, the MSX125 “Grom” has been steadily gaining a cult-like following. Armed with a virtually indestructible air cooled 125cc single cylinder engine, this little demon might not look like much, but it offers an incredibly fun and practical riding experience. What most people love about it is the easy handling, unexpected torque, and low cost. It’s incredibly fuel efficient, which makes it an excellent commuter option. Plus, it’s small, lightweight, and totally unintimidating, but can still hit just over 60 mph, which also makes it one of the best beginner motorcycles too. Currently available with an MSRP of $3,399, or $3,599 for the optional ABS package.

For those who like the sound of the Honda Grom but prefer not to give their dollars to Big Red, know that the Grom’s rival, the Kawasaki Z125 Pro, is a sound alternative that features an identical upright riding position, more or less the same specification, and a typically Kawasaki lime green paint scheme.

Piaggio Vespa GTS 300

2019 Vespa GTS 300

The Vespa has always been an excellent city bike option, and while an old two-stroke with a hand grip gear shifter is a nice romantic thought, the old classics aren’t nearly as practical as the modern Vespa models. The Vespa GTS 300, for example, is a thoroughly modern update that doesn’t lose any of the old Vespa’s charm. Equipped with a powerful single cylinder four-stroke 300cc engine that delivers more than enough power for zipping around town, sophisticated ABS and Traction Control, double disc brakes, and solid 12 inch tires, the Vespa GTS 300 is a great commuter bike that can tackle urban areas with ease.

Other cool features include DRLs (daytime running lights), digital and analog instrumentation, and a USB charging port.What’s more, it offers ample space for a pillion, practical storage, and an easy-to-ride nature that makes it great for beginners. The price tag could be better, with an MSRP of $6,799, but that’s the price you pay for an iconic marque like Vespa. It might not be the ultimate touring motorcycle, but it’s definitely a contender for the “King of the City Streets” crown.

BMW G310 GS

2019 BMW G310 GS Side View

The BMW G310R was one of the most highly anticipated motorcycles to ever roll out of the German factory thanks to its uncharacteristic small stature, but then BMW released the GS version, which has taken the whole platform to a whole new level. The G310 series might be the smallest BMW platform out there, but it could very well be one of the best. Developed in partnership with India’s TVS, the G310 idea was revolutionary for BMW, but they’ve managed to somehow make it even better by giving us a cool dual sport mini-adventure tourer in the form of the G310 GS.

Like BMW’s large capacity flagship adventure bike, the small G310 GS ticks a lot of boxes. The 313cc single cylinder engine has a lot going for it. Unlike a lot of small motorcycles out there, this one absolutely excels when you’re actually trying to go fast and keep up with other traffic. As for the off-road prowess, well that’s probably best left in the realms of fantasy. Sure, you can hit some gravel tracks and a few mild trails, but you’re not going to be crossing the Mongolian Steppe anytime soon – the suspension and wheels just aren’t up to it. However, BMW has equipped this with some top notch instrumentation and a fancy ABS system. What we like best about this one though is the overall road presence: on the highway or in the city streets, you’re not going to be (easily) elbowed into the gutter by bigger vehicles. Mix in a comfortable riding position, a bit of rain and wind protection in the form of a little front cowl, and an unexpected economy of around 72 miles per gallon and you’ve got a recipe for a great commuter. All for a respectable price of $5,695.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300

2019 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Side View

Next up, we’ve got another scaled down version of a classic. The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 might not be as big as its older siblings, but it’s not short on features. Unlike the rest of the small capacity models on this list, the Versys-X is actually powered by a parallel-twin engine rather than a single. The 300cc parallel twin produces an impressive 39.5 hp, 19.5 lb-ft of torque, and can propel the small Versys-X to speeds of up to 100 mph. Like the BMW, it boasts a tall saddle height and actually gives you some road presence, which is essential when you’re commuting on it every day. While it shares many of the same plus points as the BMW, the Kawasaki has a slight advantage: it can actually perform a little bit off-road too. Is that important for a commuter motorcycle? Not really, but when you’re throwing money at something, you want to get the best return.

To say it’s a great off-roader would be a stretch, but it can definitely tackle tougher trails than you’d expect, which is a pleasant surprise given that Kawasaki never really marketed it as a competent off-road option. Similarly, it’s also a blast to ride at highway speeds on the asphalt. Getting it up to 70mph is no problem at all, and when you’re there you can comfortable cruise without worrying that the whole thing might vibrate itself into a million pieces either. All in all, you feel like you’re riding a much bigger motorcycle than a 300, which is what makes this such an ideal commuting machine. With prices starting from $5,499, this is a great option for new riders and old hands alike.

KTM 390 Duke

2019 KTM 390 Duke Side View

In our humble opinion, the best commuter motorcycle for short commuting journeys that can successfully get you from A to B in a fun and practical way, and can also give you the thrill of your life on the weekends, has to be the KTM 390 Duke. There are a ton of bike reviews that will easily agree with our assessment, but to save you the hassle, here’s a quick summary of why we rate this beauty so highly. It’s nimble and agile, with incredibly responsive handling, offers excellent economy, and looks the part too – and those are just a few of this model’s greatest hits.

Powered by a bulletproof 372cc single-cylinder engine which produces a punchy 43 horsepower, 26 lb-ft of torque, and a top speed of 104 mph, the Duke can easily keep up with fast traffic if it has to, but it excels best navigating through the crowded city streets. You can literally put it wherever you want. If you want to go there, it will go there, and it will do it without a fuss. The excellent handling is complimented with 43mm USD suspension from WP up front, and stopping power is provided by the Brembo designed BYBRE brand’s calipers and rotors. In summary, it’s a responsive stunt bike that you can legally ride on the roads. And should. All for a very attractive price of $5,499.

Middle Distance Commutes

Middle-distance commutes are a different ballgame to short hops. If you’re going to be on the road a little longer, you’re traveling further, and will no doubt be up against faster moving traffic. You can ride a mile or two across town on a wafer thin saddle, but it’s not so fun after 10 minutes. Similarly, longer rides require other comfort options too. You’re going to want a few riding aids, and other creature comforts. So, let’s take a look a few bigger motorcycles that are ideal for commuting longer distances on.

Kawasaki Z650

2019 Kawasaki Z650 Side View

The Kawasaki Z650 is built on top of the commuting legend that was the ER6-N. Now, the Kawasaki ER6 was one of the best motorcycles for commuting on and if you see one of those parallel twin engine beauties come up for sale for a price that suits you, don’t hesitate on pulling the trigger – but if you’re looking for something new that ticks the same boxes and more, then the Z650 is the one for you. With a commuter-friendly upright seating position, excellent riding ergonomics, and usable mid-range torque make this a traffic filtering, city street-taming powerhouse of a vehicle.

In terms of specs, the Kawasaki Z650 is a 649cc parallel-twin supernaked middleweight motorcycle that produces around 60 horsepower, 48 lb-ft of torque, and has a top speed of around 120 mph. Forget the top speed though, because it’s the power that this bike has in the low and mid-range that makes it excellent for pulling away from traffic lights and navigating the stop/go flow of the city streets – it just happens to be quite quick on the highways too. The fuel economy is also perfect for budget conscious commuters, with an average of about 47 mpg. What’s more, the Z650 is big enough that you can easily carry a bit of luggage around on it, so your sandwiches can safely make it to work in one piece, or you can unfurl some rain gear if the heavens decide to open on the way to the office. Prices start from $6,999, but it’s definitely worth forking out the extra for the ABS model, which begins at $7,399.

Suzuki SV650

2019 Suzuki SV650 Front and Side View

Like the venerable Kawasaki ER6, the Suzuki SV650 is another commuting stalwart that has long been the workhorse of choice for many a ride-to-work rider. “Workhorse” is probably the best way to describe the SV actually, because they just seem to work hard and live forever – but don’t mistake excellent reliability and longevity for boring. You see, the SV650 isn’t a vanilla motorcycle. It’s kind of advertised as that, but in fact they’re great at a wide range of tasks. They are great for commuting. They’re fun for weekend blats. You can go on long distance tours on one of these. And you can even seriously race them on the track. There are even some people who put knobbly tires on them and take them off-roading…but that’s going too far, in our opinion. The SV is seriously versatile – but what makes it such a great commuter?

It’s comfortable, frugal, can handle slow speeds with ease, and can hold its own on the highway.  The steering is light and easy, and the power is always delivered right where you want it. It’s no wonder that the SV650 has been a top list mainstay pretty much since it first rolled onto the scene back in 1999. Today, this 645cc v-twin machine boasts 75 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, and comes with an attractive MSRP of $7,499 with ABS.

Yamaha MT-07

2019 Yamaha MT-07 Side View

No longer given the FZ-designation, the new MT-07 carries on with the same spirit of the older FZ-07 but with some nice and welcome upgrades. Like before, the MT-07 boasts a rock solid 687cc parallel twin engine that produces 70 horses, and delivers that power right where you need it. It’s particularly smooth in the low end which makes it perfect for weaving through early morning traffic without having to have an MA in clutch control; couple that with a narrow profile and exquisite brakes and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a slow-speed masterpiece. However, it doesn’t just excel in slow moving traffic.

Highway riding is a breeze, and thanks to the MT-07’s responsive engine, you can get up to an appropriate speed in a hurry without feeling like you’re pushing the bike too hard. Actually, the quick-action throttle actually makes you feel like you’re riding and accelerating faster than you are – which is no bad thing. The gentle clutch, unexpected acceleration, and nimble nature make the MT-07 look and feel like a real stunt bike. In fact, in that respect it has a lot in common with the more-talked-about KTM Duke 790. The MT-07, however, has better mileage and costs about $3000 less with an MSRP of $7,599.

Husqvarna Vitpilen 701

2019 Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Side On

Husqvarna’s Vitpilen platform was one of the most eagerly anticipated launches in the last few years; it was a bold take on an urban ride for the modern world that managed to marry together retro stylings with futuristic lines…and it totally worked. For the urban motorcyclist who likes to parade along the city streets in style, there can be only one option: the Vitpilen 701. Armed with a KTM 690 engine – the most powerful single cylinder engine currently available – and adorned with other KTM essentials like WP suspension and Kiska-designed ergonomics, you might be thinking that the Husqvarna is just a tarted up 690 with a few new clothes as part of a design exercise. And you’d be 90% right. But it’s that 10% difference that makes all the difference.

There’s slightly different riding geometry and ergonomics, which make for a better urban-focused ride. The seat is a different height, the front end is lower than the 690, and the rear is higher, which makes for a nimbler ride experience in the cities. And the Vitpilen also comes with quickshifter…which is a huge difference. In stock trim, the Vitpilen is only really good for outstanding urban riding and going for nice jaunts out in the twisties, but to make it a real commuter you’re going to want to invest in the optional luggage for the sake of practicality. It doesn’t have any useful space to even carry a lock without the optional bags – and anyone who owns a motorcycle knows about the perils of bike thieves. Still, for a price of $11,999 you will easily have the coolest looking commuter in town.

Ducati Monster 821

2019 Ducati Monster 821 Side View

The Ducati Monster comes in a wide range of sizes, but the Monster 821 is the best commuter model of the series. It has great handling, fantastic brakes, and incredible versatility. You can plod to and from work on it, hit the grocery store, and cruise around town with ease. And if you want to get out and enjoy some curves, you most certainly can. While it doesn’t pack the same punch as its bigger 1200cc, 147 horsepower bigger brother, it does come with top class ABS, Traction Control, a ride-by-wire throttle, and (we recommend) an optional quickshifter.

It’s essentially the class topping Monster 1200 without the bigger displacement. The frame is the same. The brakes are the same. The tank is the same. So why do we recommend the smaller model? Well, it’s down to economy and practicality. A 1200 is overkill for short to middle distance commutes, and economically, the more affordable 821 is just the wiser option. If you’re looking for a steadfast commuting motorcycle, why pay more for power you’re not going to need? The Monster 821 starts from $11,995…which is definitely a more attractive price point than the 1200’s $14,995 for the basest of base models in Ducati Red.

Long Commutes

A large percentage of motorcycle commuters are long distance commuters. While we like to imagine most two-wheeled commuters as city-dwelling riders who zip from office to office as motorcycle couriers on short five minute rides and the like, the truth is that most people have to spend up to and over an hour in the saddle just to get into work. Long rides into work can be treacherous, and you need more than just horsepower to make the ride enjoyable at times. Long-distance commuters are more at the mercy of the elements, so storage space for wet weather riding gear is something to consider, along with heated grips and seats too. And luggage options in general need to be considered – if your commute is around an hour long you probably won’t be zipping home for lunch, so you might need to bring your lunch with you, but where are you going to put it? Here are our best highway commuter motorcycle choices for the long-distance commuter!

Ducati Multistrada 1260

2019 Ducati Multistrada 1260 Side View

Ducati’s adventure touring machine might look like it would be better suited for off-road adventuring across the Sahara Desert, but in reality it’s best suited for adventuring in the concrete jungle instead. That’s not to say that you couldn’t enjoy a cross-continental voyage on one, but it’s strongest suit is easily the long distance commute. Armed with a 1260 engine that offers serious power right across a wide mid-range that makes it ideal for navigating city traffic and ploughing around at respectable speeds, the Multistrada also excels on highways too with serious speeds and agile handling. What makes it a great commuter though?

Well, it comes with a lot of commuter goodies as standard: keyless ignition, tire pressure monitoring, a nice quickshifter are standard, but more importantly, so are lockable luggage options (which can be upgraded to Touratech aluminum units) and heated grips – both of which are almost essential, depending on your locale of course. Couple those features with a dominating but comfortable ride position, and you’re left with a refined commuting machine that doubles as a sporty adventurer too. With a price tag starting from $18,695 it’s a lot more expensive than any other option on the list so far – but that’s Ducati for you, and if you want a versatile quality work horse that you can use every day, whatever the weather, and for a wide range of tasks, with the Ducati logo on it, that’s what it costs.

Honda NC750X

2019 Honda NC750X Side View

This was a curveball choice but we generally think this could be one of the best commuter motorcycles out there, for short or long journeys. We think it works best for long distance commuters though. In terms of bang for buck, you’ll struggle to find a better deal than the Honda NC750X. It might not boast the sportiest performance on the spec sheet, and it definitely doesn’t ooze charisma like other options out there, but the price is right, the ride is smooth and comfortable, and boy, it’s easy to ride – and that’s ideally what you want when you’re commuting to and from work on a daily basis.

Armed with a more than capable 745cc engine that comes with Honda’s Selectable Torque Control which allows you to determine where and when you get that power delivered, you’ve got enough go to get you where you want to go. Sure, you’re not going to have the same performance as some of the other models listed above, but this isn’t a list about performance bikes. It’s about commuting. And what does the NC750X have as an option? Dual Clutch Transmission. DCT essentially means that the clutch is irrelevant and you can pretty much twist and go – should you feel the need. Add ample internal storage, a properly comfortable seat, the economy of well over 70 mpg, to that easy ride experience, and you have one hell of a great commuting motorcycle. With prices starting from as low as $8,099, you should definitely consider this bargain.

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT Side View

Commuting longer distances requires a motorcycle that has a healthy mix of pragmatic practicality and an enthusiastic fun factor, and the Yamaha Tracer GT has got you covered. This wonderful dual purpose motorcycle comes powered by a gutsy 847cc liquid-cooled inline triple engine that delivers power right across the rev range, which is perfect for the boring city traffic but also tempts you to take the long way ‘round on the journey home too. The engine features a wide range of technology derived directly from MotoGP racing, such as Yamaha’s Chip Controlled ride-by-wire system, Traction Control, and quickshifter, with a cool cruise control mode too. There’s plenty of sport in the Tracer, but what makes it a practical commuter?

The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT comes complete with some excellent standard equipment. For commuters, the adjustable ride position and height-adjustable windshield are great tools for powering through the long slogs, and they’re matched with other cool practical features such as a handy 12v electrical outlet, heated grips, and the integrated sidecase mounts and panniers which are ideal for storing your work files, lunch, and personal belongings in. There’s also the generous-sized 4.8 gallon gas tank too, which really makes it a great Monday to Friday commuter. And the price? Prices for the Tracer GT start from a very attractive $12,999.

BMW R1250GS Adventure

2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure Side View

No list of commuter bikes could be considered complete without the big BMW getting a mention. The latest iteration of the beloved GS-range comes in the form of a new 1,254 cc boxer twin engine that produces a handsome 136 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. It’s big, bulky, has a serious amount of road presence and definitely does the job – and that’s why so many people choose to ride one into work on their daily commutes. In terms of power, comfort, and riding aids like ABS, traction control and semi-active suspension, the BMW R1250GS has it all. It even comes with luggage mounts and hard luggage should you feel the need to splash out. But is it the best urban machine?

We won’t go as far as to say it’s the best, but it certainly is very good at what it does. And while many buyers dream of circumnavigating the globe on one of them, the vast majority of these bad boys will spend their lives on the work-run rather than Ewan and Charley-ing across the planet. They’re very well suited to ferrying people to work in all conditions and all weathers, and if one day the rat race becomes too much to bear, you can always pull off of the highway and into the wilderness, raising a finger at your office as you go past. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to buy the matching BMW-branded riding gear to ride this motorcycle. It’s very rare to see a rider boldly wearing non-branded gear when they’re on one of these, but it has been done! Join the club for as little as $19,945.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2019 Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L Side View

Another adventure motorcycle as a choice for the best commuter? Yes. But this one is different. The Africa Twin is less of an adventure bike and more of a road-focused trail bike instead, and while it’s arguably one of the best heavyweight off-road capable motorcycles out there, it means that it is inadvertently one of the most comfortable and usable commuter motorcycles to have ever gone on the market. We’re talking about a motorcycle with a more-than-capable 998cc parallel twin engine that punches out an impressive 93.8 hp and 72 lb-ft of peak torque that can deliver that power throughout the rev range, teamed with suspension and frame geometry that allows you to sail over road markings, potholes, and deep ruts with ease, while you relax in a comfortable, upright ride position.

But that’s not what gives the CRF1000L the edge. Oh no! It’s the addition of the above mentioned Dual Clutch Transmission, which can handle all the gear shifting for you, making riding as easy as you like. The DCT model also comes with gear shift paddles should you feel the need to take over at any time though. The DCT is a great boon, but it’s just a part of the overall package that makes the CRF1000L such a great commuter. And of course, there’s the price. For the regular manual version, the MSRP is $13,599. If you want the ultimate DCT experience, prices start from $14,399 instead.

Other Models To Consider:

While our list has our favorite models on there, there are a few more that other riders seem to get a thrill out of. Since we’re trying to cover all bases, we’ll just take a brief look at what other riders recommend and consider to be worthy commuter candidates! These aren’t listed as being ideal for short, middle length, or long haul commuters, or ranked for how much we like them – they’re just food for thought for the more maverick commuter! So without further ado…

Zero SR

2019 Zero SR Side View

If you’re the kind of commuter who cares for the environment, or the kind that loves instantaneous power delivery, then the Zero SR might be the bike for you. Electric motorcycles are divisive machines, and the technology is still in its infancy – but it’s getting better by the day. The Zero SR in stock form has some incredible stats, but the one that commuters should like the most is the effective mile range of 147 miles, which is still better than most other bikes in terms of mpg. The real stumbling block for electric motorcycles is the charging capabilities – for a commuter though, you can just plug in while you’re at work, so it’s not such a big deal. The Zero SR has a starting price of $16,1495.

Suzuki Burgman

2019 Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive Front Side View

Suzuki’s deluxe scooter comes in three flavors for the US market: 200cc, 400cc, and the range-topping 650cc. Which one suits commuters best? Well that depends on your needs. We’re going to have a quick look at the Burgman 650 Executive because it offers the most power, and the best onboard equipment. It’s a smart urban scooter that was built with careful ergonomics in mind, and designed for everyday riding. It comes with smooth suspension, a nice soft seat, adjustable back support, an aerodynamic design and adjustable screen for the ultimate ride experience, and a heated seat with matching heated grips too. And that’s not to mention the highly useful storage space too. Prices for the Burgman 650 Executive start from $11,049.

The Moto-Guzzi V7 III Stone

2019 Moto-Guzzi V7 III Stone Side View

Another leftfield commuter bike is the Moto-Guzzi V7 III Stone. Many riders love this as a commuter for short to middle length journeys because of its simple and stripped down nature. It’s an entry-level motorcycle, powered by a classic Moto-Guzzi transverse V-twin 744cc engine that produces a modest 47 horsepower and 43 lb-ft of torque, which provides enough grunt to get almost all jobs done. The secret to the Guzzi’s success is the clean lines and classy appearance, as well as the matt black finish all over which makes it easy to keep clean…or rather, you won’t have to worry too much about rusting chrome work while your bike is left in the rain while you’re stuck in the office. The price is also an attractive factor, with an MSRP of $8,490.

Ducati Hypermotard

2019 Ducati Hypermotard 950 Side View

The Ducati Hypermotard might not seem like a logical choice at all, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t make a great commuter. It doesn’t have a soft cushy seat. There’s zero luggage space either. And don’t expect much in the way of real-life practicality either. Now, what’s the redeeming feature, you ask? It’s pure enjoyment, that’s what. If you’re going to be stuck on two-wheels, no doubt going to a job you aren’t exactly enamoured with, you might as well have some fun on the way. The Ducati Hypermotard is fun incarnate. It shares a similar spirit as the old Husqvarna Nuda, but in a more refined package. It’s not the most economical thing, it’s not the safest option, but that 937cc Ducati twin can wheelie like a mofo. Sometimes the best bet isn’t the most sensible one. Yours, for an MSRP of $13,295.

In Summary

That’s our snapshot and cross-section of some of the top motorcycles that the industry currently has to offer two-wheeled commuters. All in our humble opinion of course. The problem with deciding what the best commuter motorcycle is, is that every single commuter is different. There are too many variables to please everyone, so we’re well aware that there will be models that you think should have been included, and we’re sure we might have included things that you will disagree with – but that’s the nature of the game. If you’re looking for a good commuting machine, one of these will definitely do the job, but if you’re not convinced, take some of these as inspiration and draw your own conclusions, and hopefully find the motorcycle that suits you best. Enjoy!





Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I get a motorcycle for commuting?

A: It depends on your situation and where you live geographically. However, if you’re a keen motorcyclist that loves riding and hates being stuck in traffic when behind the wheel, then commuting by bike will make your journey to work more enjoyable – and that’s before you even consider the economic advantages of commuting by motorcycle.

Q: Are cruiser motorcycles good for commuting?

A: Almost every kind of motorcycle is an excellent tool for commuting. High capacity sports bikes are probably the only type of two-wheeled transport that doesn’t particularly lend itself to commuting, but that doesn’t make it impossible. As for cruisers: they’re comfortable, controllable, and perfect for dealing with the city streets but with more than enough power to cruise on the highways. Plus, they accommodate luggage rather well, which is very convenient. Cruisers are great choices for commuters.

Q: Can commuting on a motorcycle save money?

A: Absolutely. A new motorcycle is cheaper than a new car. Motorcycle insurance is much cheaper than car insurance. And the fuel economy weighs heavily in a motorcycles favor. Those are the obvious points, but there’s more. Motorcycles are easier to park, and often free to park when compared to a car, and they’re faster – anyone in the business world will tell you that time is money, and you don’t want to be wasting it sitting in traffic when you could be cruising down the carpool lane instead. Motorcycle commuting is definitely cheaper than commuting by car.

Q: How dangerous is commuting by motorcycle?

A: Motorcycles are considered dangerous but they’re not really when you compare them to other vehicles on the road. For example, an NHTSA study explains that motorcyclists only account for 14 percent of road fatalities, and 4 percent of all traffic-related injuries. That’s not a massive percentage when you consider the overall amount of vehicles on the road. That doesn’t mean it’s safe, but it doesn’t make it any more dangerous either. Ride carefully, take care, and wear the right gear at all times, and you will arrive at your destination safe and sound.





Joe Appleton
About Joe Appleton

Joe is a motorcycle industry veteran who has not only been paid for his words on the industry but also to throw a leg over a bike on the track. Besides riding, and occasionally crashing motorcycles, he also likes to build up older bikes in his garage in Germany. He says; "I like what I like but that certainly doesn’t make my opinion any more valid than yours…" We like Joe's educated opinion and hope you do too.

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