Motorbikes are one of the best and most popular modes of transport, especially for city commuting. A bike for commuting offers its rider the freedom to navigate through regular traffic jams easily. For city use, naked bikes – compact motorbikes with minimal plastic, an upright seating position, and a wide seat – are often considered the best. Sport bikes are another option; while they might be less comfortable, they look incredibly stylish.
When choosing the best bike for commuting, it’s essential to focus on the most significant criteria. Consider the bike’s class, engine type and displacement, suspension type, transmission, additional features, and overall appearance. If you’re in the UAE and looking to explore different options, sharmax.ae is a useful resource for browsing various motorcycle models and styles, whether you’re interested in purchasing or renting.
Remember that the right bike for you will depend on your specific needs, riding style, and comfort preferences. Take the time to research and, if possible, test ride different models before making your decision. This way, you’ll ensure that your chosen motorcycle not only meets your commuting needs but also provides an enjoyable riding experience.
What to Consider When Choosing a Motorbike for Commuting
Riding at speed and off-road significantly differs from navigating busy city streets. It’s essential to know which motorbike is best for urban environments, focusing on safety, economy, and ease of use.
Engine Type and Displacement
The engine of a city motorbike can be either two-stroke or four-stroke, determined by the number and arrangement of cylinders. Generally, the more cylinders, the better the power delivery, but heavier and noisier engines are not ideal for city riding. A single-cylinder engine isn’t a good fit for city use; it’s more suited for sport models.
- 250cc: Lightweight bikes that are easy to ride and suitable for beginners. Models like the Yamaha XV 250 and KTM 250 SX-F look aggressive yet provide a good riding experience.
- 400cc: An affordable option for city riding, these bikes are slightly heavier and offer practicality and ease of use.
- 600cc: Ideal for experienced riders wanting more power, these models shine outside the city. Notable choices include the touring enduro Suzuki GSX-R 600 and the road-focused Honda CBF 600.
Determining the Class of Bike
Classic Road Bikes
An excellent choice for both new and experienced riders, classic road bikes allow you to bypass traffic and arrive on time. These bikes provide an upright seating position and are highly maneuverable, fitting easily between lanes. Streetfighters and roadsters fall into this category, benefiting from lightweight frames and simplicity for confident urban riding. A notable model is the Ducati Scrambler, featuring an 800cc engine and a design reminiscent of the ’70s.
Sportbikes
Streamlined and tech-savvy, sportbikes are favored by those who enjoy speed. A low riding position enhances aerodynamics, making them ideal for high-speed commuting on quality roads. If you’re an experienced rider, consider the Yamaha YZF R6, which can reach 100 km/h in just 3 seconds. Alternatively, the Triumph Daytona 675 features a unique three-cylinder engine, offering 124 horsepower and speeds up to 253 km/h. Sportbikes are best for skilled riders, not for beginners.
Motards
For those who spend most of their time on the road but enjoy the occasional off-road adventure, motards are an excellent choice. Despite having street tires, these bikes perform well on rough terrain. Before making a decision, evaluate your city’s road conditions. Models like the Yamaha WR 250 X and Kawasaki Versys 650 are well-suited for both urban commutes and rugged trails.
Naked Bikes
Naked bikes are characterized by their minimalistic design and upright riding position, making them a great option for urban commuting. They often have a stripped-down aesthetic, featuring exposed engines and a lightweight frame for agile handling. Naked bikes excel in comfort and versatility, suitable for both short city rides and longer journeys. Popular models include the Honda CB650R, known for its smooth power delivery and stylish design, and the Suzuki SV650, praised for its versatility and approachable nature. Another notable mention is the Ducati Monster 821, which combines performance with iconic looks, making it a favorite among riders.
Top 5 motorbike models for commuting
KTM 390 DUKE
The KTM 390 Duke is an Austrian street bike weighing just 150 kg and delivering 40 horsepower, offering excellent handling. It’s ideal for riders who do not intend to push speed limits, with a top speed of 167 km/h. The 390 Duke suits both beginner and experienced riders, featuring a lively 373 cc engine that produces 44 hp. This power, combined with a short wheelbase and lightweight design, allows the front wheel to lift during acceleration, making it easy to break away from traffic.
For novice riders, the slipper clutch provides a safety net; even if you downshift carelessly at high RPMs, the rear wheel remains stable. Additionally, effective Bybre brakes with ABS ensure safety, while the inverted fork from one of the largest motorcycle suspension manufacturers enhances stability.
CFMOTO 300SR
Not all sportbikes are aggressive machines that are difficult to handle. There are “civilian” versions too, and the CFMOTO 300SR is perfect for beginners. Weighing 150 kg, it comes with a 300 cc engine producing 29 hp, preventing rapid acceleration that could intimidate new riders.
The model’s design aligns with its class, featuring high footpegs, aerodynamic fairings, and a low handlebar. The rider leans forward on the tank, reducing wind resistance and making control easier. CST tires provide excellent grip during sharp maneuvers, while Hangte brakes with ABS ensure safe and effective stopping power.
SHARMAX NAKED BIKE RST 422 ULTRA
The Sharmax RST 422 Ultra is one of the most popular models in the Sharmax Naked Bike lineup. This motorcycle looks super sporty and stylish, featuring an aggressive design highlighted by its fierce LED headlamp and sharp tank extensions.
The RST 422 Ultra is equipped with full LED lighting and a functional LCD instrument console. Essentials like dual-channel ABS enhance road safety. The parallel twin engine is a standout feature: a 400 cc liquid-cooled engine producing about 40 hp and 37 Nm of peak torque. The engine is smooth and responsive, with a light clutch and seamless gearbox for easy acceleration.
With an accessible seat height of 785 mm, the RST 422 is one of the rare motorcycles that allow average-height riders to flat-foot easily. Weighing 186 kg, it’s manageable in the city and on the highway. The riding posture is slightly relaxed, and the chassis and suspension perform well at speed. The handlebars are not overly wide, easing strain on your hands and back during long rides. The finely tuned ABS and frame ensure control during tricky situations.
KAWASAKI Z650
The model’s short wheelbase gives it a sharp character. With a powerful 650 cc engine producing 68 hp, it accelerates quickly. Safety features include traction control and ABS, along with a slipper clutch that prevents the rear wheel from locking during downshifting.
The Z650 impresses with its handling. Its low center of gravity, partly due to the nearly horizontal shock absorber, ensures stability during low-speed maneuvers and easy cornering. The close-set handlebars and low seat make for a comfortable riding position.
YAMAHA MT-07
This Japanese naked bike is a best-seller in Europe. It features a 73 hp engine with a 700 cc displacement, enabling quick acceleration while maintaining low-end torque for smooth starts. If you don’t give it enough throttle when starting, the RPMs automatically rise to prevent stalling.
Although slightly larger than the Kawasaki Z650, the MT-07 feels more comfortable due to its wide handlebars and forward-set footpegs. Its soft suspension absorbs bumps effectively.
The MT-07 comes with premium Michelin Road 5 tires that offer excellent grip, even on wet pavement. However, it lacks some features found in European bikes, such as engine mode settings and traction control.
Honda CBR 600F4
Formally a sport bike, this model can also be considered a touring motorcycle. It has impressive power and torque figures, equipped with a liquid-cooled inline-four engine. Weighing 170 kg, it’s best suited for experienced riders despite its modest technical specifications.
Initially marketed as a sport bike, the Honda CBR600 F4 was among the best in its class upon release. Alongside the standard version, a Sport modification was produced, featuring separate seats for the rider and passenger and stiffer suspension.
Today, the Honda CBR600 F4i is categorized as a sport-touring bike, offering a comfortable riding position for those seeking a daily rider with a sporty edge.
In conclusion, choosing the best bike for commuting involves careful consideration of engine type, class, and your riding style. Whether you prefer the power delivery of a parallel twin or the smoothness of a V-twin, the right bike can enhance your daily ride, making commuting easier and more enjoyable.