Top 8 Best Motorcycles in the USA for 2022
There are many motorcycles available in other countries that we don’t have access to in the United States. This isn’t always a bad thing, as some of these bikes wouldn’t meet emissions regulations here. However, there are some that we would love to have the option to choose from. These models tend to be large, thirsty, and environmentally friendly. While we may not always choose one of these over a European model, we would still like the option to do so.
Kawasaki ZX-14R
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Kawasaki’s UK range was a veritable behemoth until 2019 when the last of its stock ran dry. The Kawasaki ZX-14R lives on in the United States, however. A ‘gentle giant’ to the rather more manic Kawasaki H2 SX SE that has essentially assumed its role as the grandest of sports tourers, the ZX-14R has been kept fresh enough with a series of nip and tucks, meaning it still cuts a dash as a more unassuming alternative to the more brazen Suzuki Hayabusa.
The 1441cc inline-four engine provides a powerful 208bhp while remaining comfortable enough to effortlessly travel long distances. The H2 SX SE is equipped with impressive modern technology, but there is an appealing simplicity to the ZX-14R that cannot be matched.
Indian Chief
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If you’ve been paying attention, you might have noticed that while we’re discussing which motorcycles are available in the United States, the previous nine entries here are all Japanese. The reason for this is that the biggest US brands – Harley-Davidson and Indian – offer most of their products on both sides of the pond.
Indian Motorcycles may not be as popular in the UK as they are in the US, but they do have some variations that make them stand out. Indeed, while the biggest and brutish offerings in their range may not be obvious choices in the UK, most are available. The big differences are at the lower end of the range with the Chief – available in the UK in higher specs – is available as a blank canvas for customising in the US, priced at $14,999 (around £13,000).
Honda CBR600RR
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While Honda may have responded to changing times by reducing its middleweight sportsbike range to the more user-friendly and cost-effective CBR650R and CBR500R, we still can’t help but longing for the CBR600RR knowing that it’s still available in other parts of the world. A combination of emissions restrictions and dwindling sector sales unfortunately led to the CBR600RR being discontinued in Europe, but it was also encroaching a little too much into the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade’s marketplace.
With 150bhp, trick electronics and slick, handsome styling, the CBR600RR just reaches that spot the decidedly more tepid CBR650R and CBR500R could never quite achieve. Nevertheless, the CBR600RR is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and stylish ride.
Yamaha Star Venture
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The Yamaha Star Venture is the company’s response to the Harley-Davidson Road Glide. This model is designed specifically for the US market and it is large, daring, and stocky. Additionally, many people say that it has a more dynamic look than its competitors from Harley and Indian.
The Star Venture has been designed to be the top-of-the-line model in Yamaha’s US range, with its 1854cc engine, comfortable “lazy boy” style seating, and plenty of tech features to keep things refined and enjoyable. No expense has been spared in making this the best possible option for riders.
Suzuki Boulevard
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If you live in the United States, you don’t have to be a motorcycle enthusiast to know that cruisers are popular bikes. Harley-Davidson usually dominates the sales and popularity of this type of motorcycle. However, there is still an opportunity for other brands to create their own cruiser motorcycles. Suzuki offers three different cruiser bikes – the C50 and C50T (which are more classic) and the M109 B.O.S.S (which is the flagship).
The M109 B.O.S.S. exudes confidence with its slinky silhouette and moody colorways, giving off vibes of a Hayabusa that has retired to the coast. With a 1783cc engine under the hood, the Boulevard M109 B.O.S.S. definitely packs a punch…
Kawasaki KLR 650
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Kawasaki has only strayed from the beaten path a few times over the decades, in contrast to its Japanese counterparts.
In Europe, it markets the Versys as a light adventure motorcycle, but it won’t be chasing after a Honda Africa Twin or Yamaha Tenere 700 into the rough stuff anytime soon. Nevertheless, Kawasaki does offer one mid-size adventure motorcycle in a number of markets outside of Europe in the form of the KLR650.
The dual-sport motorcycle upcycles a motocross machine to be more compliant on the road. Even though the KLR650 lacks some desirability and refinement, its no-nonsense utilitarian approach might be what people are looking for.
Honda Ruckus
The Honda Ruckus is a unique scooter that’s hard to categorize. It’s named Ruckus in the US, but its Japanese title, “Zoomer,” is more fitting. It’s a stripped-back scooter that looks like a mix of urban transportation and Meccano set. It’s not pretty, but that’s kind of the point. It’s also not quick, with its 49cc engine. But it is dinky, easy to ride, and looks better than a kick scooter!
Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
The Kawasaki Vulcan is a powerful motorcycle that is available in two different models; the Vulcan Vaqueoro bagger and the Vulcan Voyager cruiser. Both models have 1700cc engines and are designed for riders who want a lot of power and performance. These motorcycles are not subtle and would definitely turn heads if ridden on the streets of the UK.
