With some big-name introductions for 2017, it’s set to be a fascinating year for motorcycles, with many hotly anticipated rides finally reaching motorcycle showrooms.
Diversification continues, with famous brands finding ever-new niches to explore. But core models are also being continually developed, with one of the most well-known superbikes of all, Honda’s Fireblade, also being updated for 2017. Read on to discover what we think are some of the best new motorbikes of 2017.
1. Ducati SuperSport S
Release date
On sale now
Price
£10,995
What do we know already?
The SuperSport name returns after a decade away, on a crisp-looking new Ducati all-rounder. The SuperSport sports bike is not as extreme as its full-fat superbikes, but still thrilling, and the 937cc engine sounds tremendous. The SuperSport S is racier, with Ohlins suspension and a quickshifter gearbox (and a limited colour choice of red or white). Welcome back, Ducati SuperSport.
Rating
4.5/5
2. Suzuki GSX-R 1000
Release date
Spring 2017
Price
TBC
What do we know already?
Finally, after seven years, we have a new Suzuki GSX-R. The engine has been heavily reworked, gaining a variable valve timing system similar to that on its MotoGP racers: this takes peak power up to a monstrous 202hp. The chassis is lighter, narrower and more nimble, and there’s a new track-focused 1000R version.
Anticipation rating
5/5
Suzuki has gone back to the drawing board with the new GSX-R. If it lives up to its on-paper potential, it’s going to be incredible.
3. Kawasaki Ninja 650
Release date
On sale now
Price
£6349
What do we know already?
Riders of the popular old Kawasaki ER-6f, meet its replacement. It still has the familiar 650 twin and is still sold for an affordable price, but the new Ninja looks and focus on all-round usability makes it an appealing new entrant into the middleweight marketplace. A charismatic everyday bike, we expect this to be even more popular than the old 6f.
Rating
4/5
4. Honda Fireblade
Release date
March 2017
Price
£15,225
What do we know already?
189hp, weight of less than 200kg, dizzying levels of electronics all overseen by a five-axis ‘Internal Measurement Unit’: the 2017 Fireblade is a technological masterpiece.
Be prepared to spend a long time at the dealer speccing it, such are the options available (there’s even a pricey new SP range-topper), but it’ll be worth it: the latest Fireblade is sensational.
Rating
5/5
KNOW THE FACTS: What Euro emissions standard is your motorbike?
5. BMW K 1600 B
Release date
TBC
Price
TBC
What do we know already?
BMW has built a bagger! Made for the U.S. bagger scene (motorcycles with saddle bags), it combines the feet-forward look of an Easy Rider with German engineering sophistication including a delectable 160hp 1.6-litre six-cylinder engine.
Of course, it’s loaded with electronics, with even more available on the options list. Get that road trip planned!
Anticipation rating
4
BMW has yet to confirm its Bagger for the UK, but what a showcase it would be if it did make it here. Not a cheap one, mind: a Honda Gold Wing costs over £20,000 and you can bet BMW’s rival would too...
6. Triumph Street Scrambler
Release date
On sale now
Price
£9025
What do we know already?
Triumph started the modern-retro scrambler trend more than a decade ago, and is now responding to market demand with this wonderful-looking new Street Scrambler. On road, it’s more relaxed, and off road, it’s great for having fun on some gravel tracks. You too can be Steve McQueen.
Rating
4/5
7. Triumph Street Cup
Release date
On sale now
Price
£8600
What do we know already?
With the Street Cup, Triumph has given us a cafe racer that’s about more than just looks. Oh, sure, it’s visually delightful, brimming with 1960s cool, but it also has depth to the way it rides and won’t throw its toys out the pram if you dare to take it on a blast over a twisting road. It’s a perfectly-conceived extension for the Triumph range.
Rating
4
8. Ducati Multistrada 950
Release date
On sale now
Price
£10,995
What do we know already?
Ducati has mixed and matched components from its range to create the entry-level Multistrada 950 tourer.
Less intimidating than the Multistrada 1200, it’s also much more affordable. An exciting tourer that is capable, talented and fun to ride, with most of the kudos of the Multistrada 1200, Ducati’s successfully broadened its touring range with this 950.
Rating
4/5
9. Yamaha YS125
Release date
On sale now
Price
£2799
What do we know already?
The little 125cc Yamaha YS125 replaces the hugely popular YBR125. It has a smoother, more economical new engine, sportier new styling, a larger fuel tank and a higher seat for better comfort.
If sales of the YBR are anything to go by, expect to see a lot of YS when first deliveries begin in the spring.
MORE 125cc BIKES: The ten best bikes for beginners
Rating
3.5/5
10. Triumph Bonneville Bobber
Release date
On sale now
Price
£10,500
What do we know already?
Like BMW, Triumph has created a new bobber for 2017, and the Bonneville Bobber looks terrific. Sumptuously styled with some gorgeous 1940s-like details, the British firm hasn’t forgotten the ride, either. A bespoke chassis means it rides like a genuine roadster, and the smooth 1200cc parallel twin is creamy.
Rating
4/5
11. Honda Rebel
Release date
Launch imminent
Price
TBC
What do we know already?
Want a bobber but only have an A2 motorcycle licence? Thanks to Honda, you’re in look - coming soon to the UK is the new 500cc Rebel.
Achingly cool-looking, Honda hopes Gen Y riders will adore it - and with them in mind, it’s expected to cap the price to around £5000.
Anticipation rating
4
Could the great-looking Rebel open up an entirely new style of bike to younger riders?
12. BMW G310 R - Top pick
Release date
Spring 2017
Price
£4,290
What do we know already?
A BMW bargain that’s a seriously tempting step-up from your first 125cc bike as you move up through the motorcycle licence restrictions. It’s a grown up bike to ride, and the 313cc single-cylinder engine is surprisingly smooth and speedy. It also looks more than a little like a BMW S1000 R superbike!
For sheer affordability and big-bike kudos, the return to the range of an affordable, licence-friendly BMW is hugely exciting. The G310 R is incredibly well priced, good to ride and will win kudos wherever you ride. This sharp-suited all-rounder is a machine we’re greatly looking forward to in 2017.
Anticipation rating
5/5
The first sub-500cc BMW bike in ages is guaranteed to be popular
And for something a bit different...
ABARTH DUCATI
Combining cars and bikes, Abarth and Ducati announced their partnership in striking style. Watch this space...
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