We live in a world of middleweight motorcycles now. Yes, there are bonkers superbikes, but they have gotten so ridiculously powerful that they are impractical for everyday use. On the other hand, the beginner segment is brewing with exciting bikes but they still lack the punch for fulfilling your motorcycling needs. This is where middleweight motorcycles come into play with their powerful yet usable engines, purpose-built ergonomics, and everything you need from your bike.
The mid-size segment is so vast now it’s almost impossible to make a decision without sleeping over it for a few months, discussing the spec sheets with your riding buddies for ten days straight, and visiting the dealership multiple times for test rides. And if you’re going through something similar, these ten motorcycles are what you should look at. These ten motorcycles are the best mid-size motorcycles you can buy today, whether you are looking for comfort, all-out performance, or practicality.
We’ve put together this list of ten incredible mid-size motorcycles by looking at manufacturer websites and Motorcyclenews.com.
10 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 may not be the fastest or the fanciest middleweight cruiser in the market — in fact, it sits at the bottom of the middleweight food chain — but that couldn’t stop us from appreciating this gorgeous motorcycle. It offers a unique flavor to the rider with its low-slung chassis and a smooth, tractable parallel twin engine. Plus, the 270-degree crank sounds awesome. It makes you appreciate the qualities that made cruisers what they are today: simple, comfortable machines with a lot of character.
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
648cc parallel-twin, air/oil-cooled, SOHC |
|
Frame Type |
Steel tubular spine frame |
|
Front Suspension |
43mm Showa USD with 120mm travel |
|
Rear Suspension |
Twin Showa shocks with 101mm travel and adjustable preload |
|
Max Power |
46 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
38.57 pound-feet |
Sourced from Motorcyclenews.com
9 Triumph Speed Twin 900
The Speed Twin 900 isn’t Triumph’s fanciest bike, and while it belongs to a heritage-rich family, it isn’t as punchy as the Bonnies of the past or the current-gen Speed Twin 1200, but it’s still a motorcycle that will win you over in no time. What makes this retro bike so special is that it is one of the most practical motorcycles on the market, with enough power to keep you entertained while being approachable for beginner bikers with a few thousand miles under their belts. And let’s not forget, it offers the quintessential retro flavors with subtle undertones of modernity.
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
900cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin |
|
Frame Type |
Steel cradle |
|
Front Suspension |
41mm Kayaba forks |
|
Rear Suspension |
Twin Kayaba rear shocks with adjustable preload |
|
Max Power |
64 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
59 pound-feet |
Sourced from Motorcyclenews.com
8 Kawasaki Ninja 650
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 often gets a bad rep for being a mellow, characterless sports bike that’s not as exciting to ride as it may look. But there’s a strong case to be made for this bike in the middleweight segment; its mellow character makes this bike versatile and easy to ride for everyone. As long as your goal isn’t an all-out performance, you’d have to be a really skilled rider to find problems with this one. The fit and finish are good, it’s loaded with tech, it’s agile, and the parallel-twin engine is a breeze to ride in a variety of riding conditions. And if you wanted to extract the same benefits without the fairings, you could even choose the Z650 or the Z650 RS.
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
649cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin |
|
Frame Type |
High tensile steel trellis |
|
Front Suspension |
41mm telescopic fork |
|
Rear Suspension |
Horizontal back-link with adjustable preload |
|
Max Power |
67 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
47.2 pound-feet |
Sourced from Motorcyclenews.com
7 Suzuki GSX-R750
Parallel twin engines are fun, but when you want a thoroughbred race bike in the middleweight segment, there’s hardly any supersport better than the GSX-R750. If you’re wondering if this is a “true” supersport, you’d be surprised to know that the GSX R750 was the first ever supersport when it was launched back in 1985. The GSX R750 is an excellent supersport motorcycle thanks to its excellent handling, reliability, and ownership experience, but its highlight feature is the 750cc inline-four engine that’s butter smooth and offers usable torque in the mid-range, unlike 600 supersports that produce all the power in the top end.
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
750cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four |
|
Frame Type |
Twin-beam aluminum frame |
|
Front Suspension |
41mm Showa BPF USD, fully adjustable |
|
Rear Suspension |
Showa shock, fully adjustable |
|
Max Power |
150 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
63 pound-feet |
Sourced from Suzuki
6 KTM 890 Duke R
Are there better middleweight nakeds in the market? Yes, but the 890 Duke R is a special one. Simply put, the KTM 890 Duke R is one of the best KTM motorcycles ever built; it’s a mature KTM that won’t try to run out from under you while being exciting enough to make you question your choices. Plus, it’s a relatively affordable bike to own and easy to maintain. Unlike the bigger Duke, the 890 Duke R can be ridden at a sedate pace with ease, but give it the juice, and it will show you why it is known as the Scalpel: it’s incredibly agile and eager in the right rev-range.
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
890cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin |
|
Frame Type |
Tubular steel |
|
Front Suspension |
43mm WP forks, fully adjustable |
|
Rear Suspension |
Single WP shock, fully adjustable |
|
Max Power |
119 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
73 pound-feet |
Sourced from Motorcyclenews.com
5 Triumph Street Triple 765 R
Another middleweight naked that deserves a place on this list is the Street Triple 765 R. This motorcycle is based on the legendary Daytona and uses the same frame that made the Daytona 675 the ultimate supersport of its time. But with the new sub-800cc engine, the bike gets to enjoy a much stronger midrange, allowing it to be a hoot to ride in the city. But take it to the track and the bike comes into its own; it’s more than capable enough to keep up with proper supersports even on the most technical racetracks. Plus, the induction noise with the inline-triple growl is addicting!
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
765cc, liquid-cooled, inline-triple |
|
Frame Type |
Aluminum twin spar |
|
Front Suspension |
41mm Showa forks, fully adjustable |
|
Rear Suspension |
Single Showa shock, fully adjustable |
|
Max Power |
118 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
59 pound-feet |
Sourced from Motorcyclenews.com
4 Yamaha Tenere 700
Let’s switch things up a bit and take a look at the best middleweight adventure bike of 2023: the Yamaha Tenere 700. This motorcycle has taken the ADV segment by storm, eating away at every other ADV’s market share. The Tenere 700 uses the ultra-versatile CP2 engine that not only sounds grunty but produces a lot of low- to mid-range torque to help this bike get through any kind of terrain. Plus, the long-travel suspension and bigger tires allow it to soak up all the bumps and rocks that you ride over, and unlike other softly-sprung ADVs, this bike does not squat under acceleration. Honestly, this may be the only ADV you will ever need.
Specifications
|
Engine Type |
689cc, liquid-cooled, CP2 parallel twin |
|
Frame Type |
Steel backbone, double cradle |
|
Front Suspension |
43mm KYB USD |
|
Rear Suspension |
Single Sachs rear shock |
|
Max Power |
72 horsepower |
|
Max Torque |
50 pound-feet |
Sourced from Motorcyclenews.com
3 Yamaha YZF-R7
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The middleweight motorcycle segment, ranging from 600cc to 800cc, has become increasingly popular over the years. This segment offers a wide selection of motorcycles that cater to various riders’ needs. Kawasaki has been a key player in this segment for almost two decades, starting with the launch of the Kawasaki Ninja 650. Over the years, Kawasaki has expanded its 650 platform to include not only the Ninja but also the Versys, Vulcan S, Z650, and Z650RS models. For the 2024 model year, Kawasaki has updated the Z650 and Z650RS models with new color options and the addition of traction control. Let’s start with the Z650RS, a neo-retro roadster that shares its underpinnings with the Z900RS. The Z650RS retains its tried and tested 649cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine. It features a lightweight steel trellis frame and a standard telescopic fork with no adjustability. The retro-inspired design includes a round LED headlight and cast aluminum wheels that mimic spoked wheels. The Z650RS now comes with a traction control system for added safety, similar to its Z650 sibling that received this feature in the previous model year. In terms of pricing, the Z650RS is available in Ebony/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray with an MSRP of $9,599, which is around $1,000 more than the modern-style Z650. The Z650, on the other hand, also receives a mild refresh for 2024 while keeping its Sugomi styling introduced in the Z1000 a decade ago. It shares the same underpinnings as the Z650RS. The Z650 now features a full-color TFT instrument cluster with smartphone pairing compatibility through the Kawasaki Rideology app. It also sports lightweight cast aluminum wheels, giving it a sporty and athletic look. The Z650 comes in Metallic Matte Dark Gray/Metallic Spark Black for the standard version and Candy Persimmon Red/Ebony for the ABS variant. The prices are $8,149 and $8,649, respectively. The middleweight motorcycle market is becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the 650cc to 800cc range. Whether you prefer minimalist bikes like the Yamaha MT-07 or the latest models like the Honda CB750 Hornet, there are options available for every type of rider. In the world of mid-sized sportbikes, the Yamaha YZF-R7 and the Aprilia RS 660 stand out with their unique appeal. While the Kawasaki Ninja 650 remains a popular choice, it has been surpassed by its competitors in terms of technology and performance. Interestingly, many manufacturers are now sharing platforms in the middleweight segment, resulting in a variety of models. For example, Yamaha has the MT-07, XSR700, Tenere 700, and YZF-R7, all built on a common foundation. Aprilia follows suit with the RS 660, Tuono 660, and Tuareg 660. Given this trend, it comes as no surprise that Honda might join in with the rumored Honda CBR750R. This approach allows manufacturers to cater to diverse rider preferences within this popular segment. If the Honda CBR750R becomes a reality, it would differentiate itself with a sportier setup, featuring low clip-on bars and aggressive rear-set footpegs. These features would provide a more spirited and sport-oriented riding experience for enthusiasts. It’s always exciting to see how manufacturers like Honda innovate in the competitive world of mid-sized sportbikes. The CBR750R would likely share the same 755cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine as the Hornet. With its 90 horsepower and 55.3-pound-feet of torque, the Hornet’s engine is a strong starting point. However, considering the CBR750R’s sportier nature, Honda might fine-tune the engine for added power, making it even more thrilling to ride. These enhancements would align with the expectations of riders seeking a higher-performance experience in the middleweight sportbike category. On September 7, 2023, BMW Motorrad unveiled its new F 900 GS, F 900 GS Adventure, and F 800 GS trio of middleweight adventure bikes to the world. The company envisions the F 800 GS as an entry-level adventure tourer, with the F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure offering a solid, all-around experience for all kinds of ADV touring riders. Let’s take a look. As you’ve no doubt noticed, the engine displacement on both the 800 and 900 families has gone up from their outgoing 750 and 850 predecessors. The F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure are both powered by BMW’s 895cc parallel twin engine, which makes a claimed 77 kilowatts (or 105 horsepower) at 8,500 rpm, alongside 93 newton-meters (about 68.6 pound-feet) of torque at 6,750 rpm. The F 800 GS makes a claimed 64 kW (about 87 hp) at 6,750 rpm, as well as 91 Nm (about 67.1) lb-ft of torque at 6,750 rpm. For A2-licensed riders, BMW Motorrad will also be offering a 35kW (or 48 hp) version of the F 800 GS. 43 Photos All three of BMW’s new middleweight adventure models benefit from LED lighting, an adjustable gearshift lever, a 6.5-inch TFT display, two ride modes (Rain and Road), ABS, and traction control. In addition to those things, each flavor of middleweight GS showcases a range of different standard equipment. The 2024 BMW F 900 GS and GS Adventure had their weight reduced by a stunning 14 kilograms (almost 31 pounds) over the outgoing versions. In large part, this weight reduction comes from a new, much lighter weight plastic fuel tank (as opposed to the previous steel version), in addition to a redesigned rear section of the bike. The weight loss is not only significant because of the amount, but also because of its location up at the top of the bike. Mass centralization and a lower center of gravity are important, no matter what type of riding you’re doing. Other features of the new F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure include a fully adjustable, upside down telescopic front fork, a lighter swingarm, Akrapovič exhaust, heated grips, hand protectors, new foot brake lever, a multifunction holder for your preferred digital device (like a phone or a GPS unit), and new bodywork. The F 900 GS Adventure adds additional protection to keep your bike in good shape the further off the beaten track you go. This includes an aluminum engine guard and BMW’s optional Ride Pro equipment package, which includes hard panniers. Choose the F 800 GS adventure instead, and you’ll get heated grips, hand protectors, and a Variocase carrier to help you haul your stuff on your journeys. Pricing and availability information have not yet been released for the 2024 BMW F 900 GS, F 900 GS Adventure, and F 800 GS. Since BMW is an internationally focused manufacturer, pricing and availability will differ by region. As pricing and availability information for these models becomes available in different markets, we will be sure to keep you updated. Please be aware that equipment may also vary in different markets—and as we have that information, we’ll be sure to make sure you have it as well. Despite the attention being focused on Suzuki’s new middleweight platform, it’s important not to overlook the other bikes in the brand’s lineup. Suzuki has recently announced its returning models for the 2024 model-year. One of the returning models is the GSX-R750. Although considered a dinosaur by some, this supersport bike is beloved by sportbike enthusiasts and offers solid performance at an affordable price of $12,999. Powered by a 750cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, the GSX-R750 features a compact and lightweight chassis. The 2024 model-year introduces new color options for the GSX-R750, including the Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue combination, Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue, and Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black. The Suzuki DR650S is also back for 2024, offering rugged capability and unwavering dependability for dual-sport enthusiasts. Equipped with a 644cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine and housed in a robust steel frame, the DR650S is designed to handle various terrains. It is available in Solid Black and Iron Gray, as well as Solid Special White No. 2. The retail price is $7,099 USD. For those seeking off-road performance, the DR-Z400S is also making a return. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the 2024 DR-Z400S is available in a race-inspired Champion Yellow colorway and a sleek Solid Black option. It features a 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine and an adjustable suspension system for personalized handling. The price is set at $7,199 USD, and it comes with black Excel rims and stainless steel spokes. Last but not least, the Suzuki DR-Z400SM is back to cater to hooligan supermoto riders. Based on the reliable DR-Z400S platform, the DR-Z400SM features a 17-inch wheel setup and road-focused tires for exceptional handling on twisty roads. With its lightweight frame and slim profile, this bike is ideal for a versatile riding experience in the city and on curvy roads. The 2024 model is priced at $7,899 USD. In addition to the models, Suzuki offers a variety of Genuine Accessories to customize the bikes according to individual preferences. For more information on availability and test rides of the 2024 lineup, contact your nearest Suzuki dealership. Suzuki made a big impact with its 2023 lineup of middleweight motorcycles, which have been praised for their innovative features and updated technology. The V-Strom 800DE and GSX-8S models, in particular, have gained a lot of attention and are expected to be bestsellers. As a result, the aftermarket for accessories for these bikes, such as the new slip-on exhaust system from Akrapovič, is rapidly growing. When it comes to aftermarket exhausts, one of the most popular brands is Akrapovič. The Slovenian company has recently released a new slip-on exhaust system specifically designed for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. As with their other exhaust systems, Akrapovič focuses on improving performance and reducing weight. The system is made from lightweight materials such as titanium and carbon fiber. Installation is easy, as it is a slip-on system that utilizes existing hardware and mounts directly to the stock manifold. In terms of performance gains, Akrapovič claims the new slip-on system is 23.6% lighter and provides a slight increase of one horsepower and one Newton-meter of torque. The system is also fully homologated to ECE and Euro 5 standards, ensuring its legality in European countries. Pricing for the Akrapovič slip-on system has not been officially announced, but it is expected to command a premium price. Similar exhaust systems for other models, such as the Yamaha Tenere 700 and Aprilia Tuareg 660, are priced around $1,000 USD. Availability for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE slip-on system will likely depend on market demand. Naked bikes in the middleweight category are incredibly versatile, especially when it comes to performance-oriented machines available in the Asian market. These bikes are small enough to easily navigate city streets while being powerful enough to provide an exhilarating ride on open roads, twisty roads, and even race tracks. The Triumph Street Triple is a perfect example of such a versatile naked bike. It is built on the highly capable and sharp Daytona platform, making it a popular choice in Triumph’s lineup for over a decade. The 2023 version of the Street Triple takes its capabilities to a whole new level. Triumph has recently launched the 2023 Street Triple in Malaysia, with prices starting at RM59,900 (approximately $12,961 USD). For comparison, the 2023 Street Triple is priced at $9,995 USD in the United States. The 2023 Street Triple range is divided into two versions: R and RS. The R version is more affordable but still performs impressively. It is powered by a 765cc liquid-cooled inline three-cylinder engine that produces 118 horsepower. On the other hand, the RS version stands out with its improved tuning, resulting in a maximum output of 128 horsepower. It also features a fully adjustable Showa front fork and an Ohlins rear monoshock. However, the RS model is pricier at RM73,900 (approximately $15,990 USD). In the United States, the Street Triple RS retails for $12,995 USD. In terms of technology, Triumph has upgraded the Street Triple for 2023. Previous models lacked the comprehensive suite of technology now found in the 2023 versions. Both the Street Triple R and RS are equipped with a six-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), providing advanced rider aids such as cornering ABS and lean-sensitive traction control. Multiple riding modes, including Road, Rain, Sport, and Rider, offer customizable riding experiences. The RS model even features a performance-focused Track mode.Kawasaki Aims to Dominate the Middleweight Segment with Updated Z650, Z650RS
Could A Honda CBR750R Soon Become A Reality?
2024 BMW F 900 GS, F 900 GS Adventure, And F 800 GS Unveiled
Engine Info
Additional Features
Pricing and Availability
Take A Look At Suzuki’s Returning Models For The 2024 Model-Year
Akrapovič Introduces a New Slip-On System for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
The 2023 Triumph Street Triple 765 Lands In Malaysia
