What's incredible about this year is the incredible amount of cool motorcycle models that have been released around the world. There has also been a huge shift towards the mainstream. Major manufacturers began creating new individual programs and competitions, and also began selling retro and regular motorcycles with “traditional designs.”
Even if you look closely, you can understand that this year it was difficult to identify any specific trend. In any case, it may be a counter-trend: different ways of building motorcycles are made without any dominant types.
It is worth noting that interest in scrambler motorcycles has increased in comparison with cafe racers, which have finally ceased to be relevant. Trackers seem to be starting to gain popularity, but not much yet, despite the fact that there is a lot of media attention on motorcycle racing. The Bobbers are confidently in the lead. The interest appears to be driven by the Indian Scout and Triumph Bonneville, and the Bobbers plant itself has contributed to this.
This year's top 10 is probably the most diverse list yet. All information presented below is based on people's web pages, incoming links, and social media sharing. A comparison has been made based on the time of creation of motorcycles and, we can say that the motorcycles that appeared in January are now on par with those that came out a couple of weeks ago.
Respect to the people who designed and built these bikes, as well as the photographers who captured them.
Motorcycles you can't miss in 2021!
For lovers of two-wheeled vehicles, many excellent new motorcycle products have appeared in 2021. Harley-Davidson, celebrating its 115th anniversary, has prepared a number of unexpected updates, nine of them at once. Suzuki presented a surprise in the form of the Cafe Racer, and other motorcycle manufacturers are trying not to lose face by offering their customers extremely interesting new things. So, the hottest new motorcycles in 2021!
Versions Bagger, Bobber, Cafe Racer, Enduro, Retro-Bike - those who are thinking about a new motorcycle will have a very large selection in 2021. For example, Harley-Davidson. The new motorcycles in the line are nicknamed Street Bob, Fat Bob and Low Rider. All of them belong to the Softtail series (frames with a rear shock absorber), the manufacturing technology of which has made it much lighter. Additionally, the engine lineup will feature additional 1,745 or 1,868 cc Milwaukee-Eight engines, LED daytime running lights, a new instrument panel, Keyless Go entry and handlebar-mounted USB ports.
Competitors who share the same development direction with the Americans, like Honda and BMW, do not intend to give up, offering improved versions of the Honda Goldwing and BMW K1600 models for the 2021 market.
Suzuki, in turn, prepared a new SV650 (a classic naked motorcycle that was produced for ten years until 2009) and added the luxurious “cafe racer” Racer SV650X to the sales program.
These and many more hot new motorcycles for 2021 right now:
Harley-Davidson
Bagger, Bobber, Cafe Racer, Enduro, Retro-Bike: Harley will delight its customers with a set of technologically advanced and very interesting new products for the 2018 model year. The new Harley-Davidson Sport Glide is coming out. The Softail line of motorcycles appears.
The Glide Sport is based on a chassis with 43mm inverted forks and a monoshock. Removable headlight covers, saddlebags with the possibility of dismantling and lighting equipment with LED technology are also present. The Glide sports bike is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight-107 engine with 84 horsepower.
The cost in Russia starts from 1,444,000 rubles.
The Dyna model is retiring, replaced by the firstborn of the Softail series, the Street Bob
Fat Bob
Fat Boy
Low Rider
Choose from 1,745 or 1,868 cc Milwaukee Eight engines with different sounds and power output.
In addition, Harley-Davidson has changed its big tourer. The 2021 version of the motorcycle replaces the chrome with black parts. The motorcycle is powered by a huge 1923 cc Screamin-Eagle V2 engine.
The updated line, dedicated to the 115th anniversary of the motorcycle manufacturer, is completed by the Harley-Davidson Softail Breakout and Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic models. The old brand did not skimp on celebrating its anniversary on a grand scale!
Suzuki
Against the backdrop of such a deep expansion of the line, Suzuki acted much more modestly. In 2021, the Japanese returned the classic SV650 to the model program. A twin-cylinder engine and some eye-catching colors add a new twist to the old concept's charm.
Let's not forget about the chic Cafe Racer Suzuki SV650X, which combines the styles of two different eras.
The large Burgman 400 scooter has been modified by Japanese engineers and received a slightly different aero body kit. The front wheel is larger and the engine appears to be more powerful.
BMW
BMW is planning equally interesting updates in the new year. First model of 2021: BMW F750 GS (image).
The F750 and its more powerful F850 GS model are equipped with new twin-cylinder engines with more power and new electronics. On the F750 GS version, 77 hp is available. s., while power will increase to 95 horses on the F850 GS model. LED headlights and a color TFT display will add comfort, while Rain and Road modes will add safety and drive.
For an additional fee, the electronically controlled Dynamic ESA chassis, DTC Keyless Ride traction control system and gearshift assistant are available. Pro, Dynamic, Enduro and Enduro Pro driving modes will help even a beginner in off-road driving.
The BMW K1600 Grand America will be useful for those who like to travel far and in comfort. Cruise control, reverse gear, infotainment system and 160 hp. With. By the way, it has a six-cylinder engine. The 340kg luxury tourer has all the latest technology on board to make you feel like you're in a car!
Cost in Russia: from 1,866,000 rubles.
Do you want something more? The BMW K1600 Bagger model is suitable for these purposes. Darth VADER optics, a perfectly tuned six-cylinder engine and an equally amazingly tuned chassis.
The R1200 GS Adventure is a model specially designed for unusual conditions of use on good and bad roads. It will also be available for purchase starting in the new year. The main trump cards are new colors that will neatly refresh the appearance.
These updates apply to the R1200 R
R1200RS
BMW S1000 XR
BMW R1200 RT.
For city dwellers, BMW is offering the C 400X scooter model in 2021.
The Bavarians will roll out their old friends, remade in a new way. Three scooters to choose from: C 650 Sport, C 650 GT and C evolution (electric scooter). Engine power is 34 hp. With. Naturally, it goes to the rear wheel through a CVT gearbox.
Shanghai Customs eCub
It's a sign of the times that have passed: an electric bike is in the top 10, because even the Honda Cub itself is based on it. Shanghai boss Matthew Waddick created an innovation: many of the bikes' parts are made in China, and he used local knowledge to redesign the humble Cub into a stylish city bike. The eCub may look retro, but with three types of regenerative braking and a full complement of LED lighting, it can only vaguely resemble retro styling.
Honda
Hondas Stars are the new models of the CB series. Sports naked bikes come with small 125 cc (13.3 hp) or 300 cc 31 hp engines. With. The most powerful option is 145 hp. With. there is still the CB1000R model (photo above). Note that the four-cylinder engine of the top model is visually very similar to the engine first shown on the Neo sports Cafe Concept.
The little CB125R received a six-speed gearbox, a new chassis and upside-down fork, a monoshock absorber and LED lighting. The changes are more global, but since the sales market will be mainly in Japan and Asia, this model is not so interesting to study.
The legendary Africa Twin model received a new type of “electronic” clutch, modified traction control and a more powerful exhaust sound. It has become lighter thanks to a new battery (weighing 2.3 kilograms) and, according to Honda representatives, copes even better with the difficulties of real off-road conditions.
For the 2021 model year, the top-of-the-line version of the Africa Twin is available, the CRF1000L Adventure SPORTS. It has a higher seat position, higher ground clearance, longer suspension travel and heated control grips as standard. The tank holds 24.2 liters instead of the previous 18.8 liters of gasoline.
Additionally, Honda is offering a luxury tourer that is 50 kilograms lighter than the previous Goldwing. The changes made during the work can be called profound: the model has changed visually and technically by 2021. The 126-horsepower six-cylinder engine should easily cope with the Goldwing’s 383 kilograms of maximum “live weight.”
The motocross theme was also developed by Honda in the new year. The CRF 250R received a 5 percent increase in power and a reduction in weight. The standing start will be more intense, which means fractions of seconds and meters won at the beginning of the race. As you know, cross-country races are won in the first meters after the start, so Honda has prepared a great gift for athletes!
Small improvement, big progress: the CRF 450R gets electric start as standard!
The Madboxer
Well, no one expected this. Zeelander Marcel van Hoojdonck spent five years building this incredible bike, running a turbocharged Subaru WRX engine into a custom-built frame. Power is routed through a two-speed automatic transmission, and there's even a center-control front hub setup. This is the kind of design that will test the mettle of a professional engineer, but Marcel is a man who enjoys taking on any challenge.
It was an amazing experience this year: some models were a surprise in this top. But many great models, such as Rough Crafts, Krugger, Heiwa and Craig Rodsmith, unfortunately did not make it here.
But everything is unpredictable, and most likely you are also excited, because no one knows what new and interesting things will 2021 bring?
Triumph
Triumph updates the "ultra-tough" and "mega-cool" Bonneville model for 2021. The black bobber is as beautiful as ever. The second model, the Speedmaster, perfectly complements the model range. The exhaust system, running board, brake pedal, shift lever, handlebar, seat pan, wheel hubs and headlight surround are all finished in black, anodized or painted.
However, this is where almost all the changes end. Technically, the motorcycle did not survive reincarnation - the engineers left the bike untouched. Unless they installed a 16-19-inch wheel and a massive Showa fork instead. But that doesn't count... First of all, the 77-horsepower engine remains the same as it was.
If the Bonneville is, so to speak, a “bobber” for one, then the Triumph Speedmaster is a motorcycle for two (if necessary, a seat for a second crew member is installed on the rear fender). More classic looks and a lot more chrome.
In the Triumph line, of course, there are also so-called “adventure motorcycles”. An example is the Tiger 800 XC (off-road version) and 800 XR (on-road model). In total, about 200 positions were changed in the motorcycles! A comprehensive and thoughtful optimization of the model was carried out. Among other things, a new generation of engines and a rebuilt chassis are available.
The heart of the two motorcycle variants is an impressive 800 cc three-cylinder engine with 95 horsepower.
Moto Guzzi
The 1921 Moto Guzzi V7 in a cool carbon version, in black with red local accents, will be offered to buyers in Europe. With the start of sales of a special model, the Italians want to remind everyone of the year the company was founded (marked in the name of the motorcycle version).
Three versions of motorcycles: Carbon, Milano and Rough - differ in attachments, and in particular tires. “Rougher” tires are for roads of not the best quality, road tires are for normal conditions, the carbon version of the motorcycle is made for fashionistas.
Creating a motorcycle anew, around a new engine, is a task that not all motorcycle manufacturers undertake. At least, you don’t see this often these days. The Italians took a chance and made an updated version of the off-road model.
Engineers from the Apennines built a motorcycle around their 850 cc 80 hp engine, reminiscent of the rally bikes of the 80s. The V85 model, according to the developers, should fit perfectly between the V7 and V9 versions.
Ducati
Racing fans will get maximum adrenaline in the coming year. The Ducati Panigale V4 will help them with this. The first production four-cylinder Ducati received 214 horsepower and a top speed of 300 km/h! The starting price of the Panigale model in Russia in 2018 is from 1,779,000 rubles.
The special version of the Ducati 959 Panigale Corse will cost a lot anywhere in the world. But that's not the main thing. The main thing in a motorcycle is return and inspiration! Two-tone paintwork, Öhlins suspension and Akrapovic exhaust system. This is the minimum you should know. Weight, it seems, is only 197.5 kilograms!
The Ducati Scrambler, in classic form, has not been updated for many years. This fact upset the fans. Last year, the Italians seemed to have heard the wishes of fans and donated an engine from the Monster model to the 1100S retro motorcycle. With a power of 86 hp. With. it has an additional 13 hp.
Three versions of this classic will go on sale in spring 2021. The lower price threshold of the model in Russia is 629,000 rubles.
Ducati Multistrada – for long “races”. The Italian comes out with an extra 64cc in the new year. 85 percent of the engine's 130 Nm torque is available at speeds below 3,500 rpm. Power is 158 hp. pp., there are no changes compared to its predecessor.
In addition to the revised powertrain, the Multistrada comes with new electronic throttle, traction control, Wheelie Control, ABS and launch control. Minimum price – from 1,050,000 rubles.
Ducati also completely revised the “Monster” line, arriving in time for the birthday of the model range. The 821 variant comes with new electronics, a customizable color display and multi-level traction control. Power is 109 hp. s., prices start from 779,000 rubles.
Diamond Atelier Mark II Series
Tom Konecny and Pablo Strigleder of Diamond Atelier kept the style as simple as possible with full detail. The business sense is just as sharp: they've packaged elements of the BMW R-Series into a limited edition "Mark II" motorcycle. Each motorcycle receives a new body, upgraded suspension and 320 mm brake discs with 6-piston Tokico calipers. It's worth noting that this is a great idea.
KTM
KTM sees the new 790 Duke as an uncompromising ground weapon for victory. The pendulum and rear part of the frame are made of light alloy; launch control will allow you to take off smoother and safer. The compact LC8c engine delivers 105 horsepower at 9,000 rpm. The naked model weighs only 169 kilograms. Cool!
Essentially the same model, only for off-road use, the KTM 790 Adventure. Is enduro popular again? KTM wants to believe it!
KTM motocross motorcycles should get fuel injection starting in 2021. The technology will be used in the 250 EXC TPI and 300 EXC TPI models. The carburetor is becoming a thing of the past with off-road and sport models.
The Mutant by Ironwood Custom Motorcycles
Old BMWs are ideal donors for new builds: tough, well engineered and stocked with spare parts. The downside to this popularity is 'identity', but Arjan van den Boom and his colleagues Eric and Sam have come up with something completely new for the R80. Aggressive angular lines capture the eye and if you look closely, take in every detail. Particularly chic is the vintage Porsche 356 shade on the Zundapp tank, inspired by the design of the Singer car.
Kawasaki
Kawasaki jumped on the retro bandwagon at the last minute, revealing a new classic model, the Z900RS, for 2021. The classic has 948 cubic cm of volume, 111 liters. With. and 98.5 Nm of torque. A motorcycle weighs 215 kilograms if you put it on the scale. A tribute to the Z1 from the 70s in its purest form.
Fill the tank of the Z900RS with 17 liters of high-quality gasoline, and you are ready for non-stop driving for a distance of up to 300 km. In the future, it is worth repeating the refueling procedure so that the interesting pastime does not end. With this matte green version, Kawasaki wants to appeal to the motorcyclists of the modern metropolis.
The secret of the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX is the compressor system from the Ninja H2 sports model, which provides the green beast with 200 hp. With. at 11,000 rpm and 137.3 Nm of maximum torque.
If your ambitions are not so high – Kawasaki Ninja 400. The same “supersport” class, but more down-to-earth. If you weigh the sportbike on a scale, you get only 168 kilograms of dry weight, which is 6 kilograms lighter than the Ninja 300. The Ninja will be a little easier to handle.
The Japanese will produce a children's version of the Kawasaki KX65, as well as a KX250F model, visually redesigned, but technically remaining the same.
The best classic motorcycles
Kawasaki Estrella 250
The Kawasaki Estrella 250 does not have high performance - a comfortable speed of 90 km/h, a maximum of 120 km/h, which makes it a good option for moving along city streets. Because it has good maneuverability and is small in size, comparable to some scooters.
The motorcycle is well suited for beginners. Easy access to all main components and reliability ensure long engine life. But provided that the oil in it is changed every 3000 km. Otherwise, all the main engine parts will quickly become unusable. You can remove and unscrew almost everything without using special tools.
Pros of the motorcycle:
- Good handling.
- Excellent maintainability.
- Quick access to main nodes.
- Reliability.
Disadvantages of the motorcycle:
- Lack of space for a passenger.
- Unsuitable for driving on high-speed roads.
- No glove compartment.
- There is no fuel level indicator.
Yamaha SR 400
Production of the Yamaha SR 400 began in 1978. The design turned out to be so successful that it is still in great demand among motorcycle enthusiasts. The designers were tasked with creating the simplest possible motorcycle.
This explains the almost complete absence of plastic parts, a minimum of electronics (even there is no electric starter), but with good handling for comfortable maneuvering and a good 27 hp engine. Despite the obviously outdated solutions, the motorcycle is still capable of competing with other classic options, and thanks to its reliability, it will not require repairs a short time after purchase.
For 100 km, the Yamaha SR 400 will consume approximately 4 liters of fuel. At the same time, the average comfortable speed is at the level of 100 km/h. The weight of the motorcycle is small - 150 kg. 18-inch wheels with long-travel suspension provide it with good cross-country ability and smooth passage of speed bumps. However, due to the low (10 cm) ground clearance, the motorcycle has problems overcoming obstacles that lie across the road.
Pros of the motorcycle:
- Patency.
- Good dynamics (in its class).
- Comfortable seating.
- Low fuel consumption.
Disadvantages of the motorcycle:
- It is impossible to transport goods.
- Difficulties with spare parts.
Yamaha
Yamaha offers a wide range of visual enhancements to the MT 07, new air intakes, new headlights, new seat and shock absorber. The 689 cc engine with 75 horsepower is still in the holder.
The XT1200 ZE Super Tenere off-road model may have the longest nameplate in 2021, but that won't compromise the SUV's reliability. Yamaha's famous, if not legendary, 1,199 cc twin-cylinder engine hangs underneath the frame. An electronically controlled chassis, a smart braking system, traction control and cruise control are the few technical improvements that have been introduced into the new product.
Sports Tourer Tracer 900 GT is, first of all, an optimized model of a Yamaha motorcycle, both in terms of its technical characteristics and ease of riding. Starting in 2021, the Tracer 900 GT will not only receive significantly improved attachments, but also larger panniers, Quickshift and more.
The Yamaha T7 was most recently the concept that brought the Japanese into the limelight for their vision of an SUV at the 2021 Eicma motorcycle show. Lightweight, passable - what more do you need from an ideal two-wheeled SUV?
The R1 and R1M received from Yamaha engineers in the new model year a quickshifter and a blipper, which also allows you to disengage the gear without pressing the clutch. This nuance will allow you to benefit from the new ECU mapping and pamper ambitious drivers with the very precise Öhlins Smart EC 2 ERS suspension.
The XSR700 is another tribute to the motorcycles of the 70s. The XSR700 will at least get a nice new color in 2018.
The Yamaha XSR900 and XS850 bring out the 80s theme.
The Yamaha X-Max 125 offers more performance in the city. These include LED lighting, SmartKey and new traction control.
The older brother X-Max 400 has been redesigned. Just like the X-Max 300, the scooter has become more maneuverable and much more dynamic. In addition, it received on-board traction control as standard.
A new cylinder head, a lightweight piston, modified camshafts and intake shafts, valve springs, a new engine control unit - the Yamaha WR250F model, according to the manufacturer, has undergone changes throughout 2021.
Some more motorcycle models that are worth a look...
Source
Royal Enfield Bullet by Thrive
Currently, Royal Enfield is on a roll, as are Jakarta founders Indra Pratama and Barata Dwiputra. The Bullet 350 is one of Thrive's more subdued builds, but the older scramblers are incredibly attractive too. With proper fenders, a very comfortable seat and quality construction, you can enjoy it to the fullest without the usual bruises and bumps.