Today, let me tell you about my little adventure with these “sport touring” motorcycles. You know, the kind that’s supposed to be good for both zooming around corners and going on long trips. So, I got really interested in these bikes, started digging around to see what’s what.
First off, I started checking out different models. I looked at the BMW R 1250 RS, which a lot of folks seem to think is the poster child for sport touring. Then there’s the Yamaha FJR1300ES – that one’s got a reputation for being smooth and powerful. And I even peeked at some of the less expensive options from CFMoto. They’ve got a bunch of bikes that won’t break the bank, which is always nice.
Here’s what I found out: these sport touring bikes are kind of a mix between a full-on touring bike and a pure sports bike. They’re designed to be a bit more nimble and fun in the corners, with better ground clearance. But they’re also supposed to be comfy enough for longer rides, though maybe not as much as a big touring rig. They usually have less storage space, weigh less, and have you sitting a bit more upright than a sports bike, but not as relaxed as a cruiser.
My Own Little Test Rides
- Tried out the Honda VFR Interceptor. Man, that thing is more on the sporty side. Fun as heck to ride, but I’m not sure I’d want to do a long trip on it, especially with a passenger.
- Hopped on a Yamaha FJR1300, and it was pretty darn impressive. Smooth, comfy, and felt like it could handle anything I threw at it.
One thing I really appreciated is how these bikes are designed with ergonomics in mind. That means they’re made to fit your body better, which makes a huge difference on longer rides. You’re not all hunched over like on a sports bike, so your back and wrists don’t start screaming after a few hours.
After all that, I’ve decided that a sport touring bike is a pretty sweet deal. You get a good dose of fun and performance, but you don’t have to sacrifice all the comfort. It’s like having your cake and eating it too. Of course, which bike is best really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want something more sporty, the VFR is a blast. But if you want something that can handle longer trips without making you feel like you’ve been through a wrestling match, the FJR is a great choice. It is worth doing more research on it for sure.
