Are Sport Touring Motorcycles Suitable for Daily Use?
When it comes to choosing the best motorcycle for daily use, one popular choice is the sport touring motorcycle. These bikes are designed for a balance between high performance and long-distance comfort, making them an attractive option for both commuting and weekend adventures. Let's explore whether sport touring motorcycles are a good fit for your daily needs.
What are Sport Touring Motorcycles?
Originally, the term “sport touring” referred to motorcycles that offered a high level of both performance and long-distance riding comfort. However, the phrase has evolved to describe a wide variety of bikes that aim to combine the handling and performance of a sport bike with the comfort and convenience of a touring bike.
My Experience with Sport Touring Motorcycles
I owned a Honda Street Sports 650, which, after an hour of riding, was noticeably uncomfortable. This issue led me to seek an alternative. I currently ride a Dyna, branded as a "club motorcycle" with a 1440 cc twin-cam engine that delivers the power of a 600 cc motorcycle. The Dyna has proven to be versatile, handling both city riding and longer tours with ease. It strikes the perfect balance of performance and comfort, making it a comfortable companion on my daily commute and weekend adventures.
The Argument in Favor of Sport Touring Motorcycles
Sport touring motorcycles are often praised for their excellent performance, handling, and brakes. Unlike heavy touring bikes, they are more agile and manageable, meaning they aren’t too cumbersome or unwieldy in traffic or tight urban environments. Additionally, they typically come with good carrying capacity, often featuring integrated luggage racks or integral fairings, making them practical for daily use without the need to add bulky accessories.
One might argue that for those with a short commute, rough roads, and limited parking space, a dual-purpose bike might be a better option. However, in my experience, a well-built sport touring motorcycle is a remarkable choice for regular use. They offer the best of both worlds - the exhilarating ride of a sport bike combined with the comfort and practicality of a touring bike.
Why Sport Touring Motorcycles Excel in Daily Use
1. Performance and Comfort: Modern sport touring bikes offer a balance of power and comfort that makes them enjoyable to ride every day. They are designed to handle long distances while providing a comfortable seating position, making them ideal for both commuting and leisurely day trips.
2. Handling and Agility: Despite their powerful engines, these bikes are agile and responsive. They can be easily maneuvered through traffic and in urban settings, which is crucial for daily use.
3. Luggage Capacity: Most sport touring bikes come with built-in storage solutions, such as fairing storage compartments or luggage racks, making them practical for carrying necessities like a backpack or a few grocery bags.
4. Durability and Reliability: Many sport touring bikes are built to last, with robust components and reliable mechanics. This durability ensures that your daily rides are comfortable and stress-free.
5. Suitability for Various Weather Conditions: Sport touring motorcycles are often designed to handle various weather conditions, from hot summers to cold winters. With proper protective gear, these bikes can be ridden year-round in most climates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sport touring motorcycles are indeed suitable for daily use. They offer a unique blend of performance, comfort, and practicality that makes them well-suited for both commuting and leisure rides. Their versatile design ensures that they can handle a variety of riding conditions, making them a solid investment for anyone looking for a daily use motorcycle.