There is no single best sport-touring motorcycle for every rider. For outright performance, MCN’s 2025 shortlist points to the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT, BMW S1000XR and Suzuki GSX-S1000GT/GX; for a lighter middleweight, consider the Yamaha Tracer 7 GT or Triumph Tiger Sport 800; for a more touring-oriented ride, compare the Honda NT1100 and Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE. These are MCN’s editorial picks, not a universal ranking. Its guide names the Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX SE its 2025 sport-tourer of the year.
The comparison below draws on Motorcycle News (MCN), whose guide was updated 17 September 2025 and reports UK new prices current as of September 2025. Those prices are historical, market-specific reference points—not current October 2026 quotes or prices for other countries.
What makes a motorcycle a sport-tourer?
A sport-tourer is meant to combine road-focused performance with the comfort and practicality needed for longer rides. MCN’s guide weighs road ability, storage and pillion comfort alongside engine size, power, weight and seat height. A 17-inch front wheel can distinguish a road-oriented sport-tourer from a more off-road-focused adventure bike, but wheel size alone does not define the category: riding position and day-to-day practicality matter too.
That mix makes the right choice personal. Compare wind protection, riding posture, passenger space, luggage options, seat reach and the character of the engine—not just peak power. MCN’s author Adam Oldfield wrote on 17 September 2025 that the category is changing as sportbike sales decline and adventure bikes offer increasingly capable road alternatives. That is editorial context, not a quantified sales finding.
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MCN’s 10 sport-touring picks: UK figures reported in 2025
The following specifications and prices are as reported by MCN in its UK-oriented 2025 guide. They have not been independently normalized: power and weight conventions may differ between manufacturers, model years and configurations, so use them as a shortlist rather than a laboratory-style comparison. New prices are dated to September 2025.
| Model | Engine | Power | Weight | Seat height | New price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX SE | 1099cc | 134bhp | 234kg | 835mm | £13,999 (UK, September 2025) |
| Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ | 890cc | 117bhp | 223kg | 820mm | £17,004 (UK, September 2025) |
| Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello | 1042cc | 113bhp | 233kg | 815mm | £16,750 (UK, September 2025) |
| Suzuki GSX-S1000GT/GX | 999cc | 150bhp | 226kg | 810mm | £12,999 (UK, September 2025) |
| KTM 1290 Super Duke GT | 1301cc | 175bhp | 209kg | 835mm | £15,899 (UK, September 2025) |
| BMW S1000XR | 999cc | 168bhp | 227kg | 850mm | £16,790 (UK, September 2025) |
| Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE | 1099cc | 133bhp | 259kg | 840mm | £15,649 (UK, September 2025) |
| Yamaha Tracer 7 GT | 689cc | 72bhp | 212kg | 845mm | £10,104 (UK, September 2025) |
| Honda NT1100 | Not stated consistently by MCN: its spec line says 776cc; its review text says 1084cc | 101bhp | 238kg | 820mm | £12,799 (UK, September 2025) |
| Triumph Tiger Sport 800 | 798cc | 113bhp | 214kg | 835mm | £10,995 (UK, September 2025) |
All figures in the table are attributed to MCN’s 2025 guide: Best sports-tourer motorcycles for long rides in 2025. Because the Honda NT1100 engine figures conflict within that guide, confirm displacement for the exact model year and trim with Honda before relying on it.
How to choose among the 10
Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX SE: the balanced all-rounder in MCN’s 2025 pick
MCN chose the Ninja 1100SX SE as its sport-tourer of the year for 2025, saying the updated version gains displacement and stronger real-world grunt over its predecessor. Kawasaki’s US 2026 listing identifies the Ninja 1100SX ABS as a sport-tourer and lists cruise control, traction control, ABS, power modes, cornering management, a quick shifter, a 4.3-inch TFT, USB-C and smartphone connectivity. That is a US ABS model listing, so check local specification and whether it matches the UK SE trim before treating the equipment as identical.
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Source: Kawasaki Motors, 2026 Ninja 1100SX ABS.
Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+: technology and touring emphasis
MCN describes the GT+ as a technology-rich choice, highlighting radar-linked braking and adaptive cruise control. Yamaha Motor Europe’s 2025 page describes the Tracer 9 GT+ Y-AMT as combining sports and touring and lists fuel consumption of 5 L/100 km. That consumption figure belongs to the European Y-AMT configuration; it should not be assumed for every market or version. MCN also names the GT+ its 2024 pick, a prior-year award rather than a current universal verdict.
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Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello: distinctive V-twin character
MCN highlights the V100 Mandello’s 1042cc V-twin, adaptive aerodynamics and touring technology. Its 815mm seat height is the lowest figure in this comparison, but a published seat measurement alone cannot predict whether the bike will feel easy to manage. Equipment can vary by market and trim, so verify the specific bike’s configuration.
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Suzuki GSX-S1000GT/GX: choose between road focus and a taller stance
MCN groups the GT and GX together, reporting a 999cc inline-four and 150bhp. The GT is the road-focused member; the GX has a taller stance. They should not be treated as identical in ergonomics or rider fit, so sit on both if both are on your list.
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT: the performance-led option
MCN presents the KTM as the most performance-oriented bike in its shortlist, reporting 175bhp and 209kg. It also cites semi-active suspension and rider aids. Those are MCN’s characterizations; the high output and equipment list are reasons to assess throttle response, riding modes and suspension behaviour on a test ride, rather than assume they will suit every touring style.
BMW S1000XR: upright posture with a tall seat
MCN characterizes the S1000XR as a high-performance, upright sport-tourer, with 168bhp and an 850mm seat height—the tallest listed here. Riders concerned about reach should test-sit it in riding boots, and, if possible, test-ride it at low speed as well as on open roads.
Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE: touring-leaning and substantial
MCN says the 2025 update adds engine capacity, power and torque, with relaxed gearing. At 259kg and a reported 840mm seat height, it is the heaviest bike in this comparison. Consider how its height and mass feel during parking, U-turns and loaded low-speed manoeuvres, not only when cruising.
Yamaha Tracer 7 GT: a middleweight with touring equipment
For riders who value a lower-power option over top-end output, MCN positions the Tracer 7 GT as a middleweight. Its guide lists a 689cc twin, 72bhp, heated grips, a taller screen and side cases. The 845mm seat is relatively tall for a bike with modest output, so check fit rather than equating a smaller engine with a low seat or an effortless reach to the ground.
Honda NT1100: comfort-oriented, but verify its exact engine specification
MCN describes the NT1100 as comfort-oriented and discusses DCT availability in its review context. Its own engine-capacity figures disagree: the specification line gives 776cc, while the review text says 1084cc. Do not rely on the conflicting number; confirm displacement and DCT availability for the precise model year, trim and market with Honda.
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Triumph Tiger Sport 800: a middleweight beyond the fully faired mould
MCN lists the Tiger Sport 800 as a new-for-2025 model with a 798cc triple and 113bhp. Its more upright, crossover-style shape broadens the shortlist beyond fully faired, low-slung sport-tourers. Compare wind protection and rider fit in person, especially if you are moving from a conventional faired touring motorcycle.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check before choosing
- Fit and control: Seat height is only a starting point. Check reach to the ground, handlebar position, knee bend and how easily you can balance the bike at walking pace.
- Long-distance comfort: Assess wind and weather protection, seat comfort and vibration on a representative ride. Bring a passenger if pillion comfort is part of the plan.
- Luggage: Confirm which cases are included, what mounting hardware is required and the bike’s load limits. Luggage compatibility and attachment points are model-specific.
- Electronics: Check which rider aids and convenience features are fitted to the exact trim, and make sure their controls and menus are intuitive to you.
- Local price and support: MCN’s prices are UK figures from September 2025. Ask local dealers for a current quote and verify regional availability, specification and servicing support.
Used-bike checks for a sport-tourer
MCN’s advice is a useful starting checklist, not a substitute for a complete mechanical inspection. For a used example, check that the engine and frame numbers match the vehicle logbook; inspect chain and sprocket wear, tires and brakes; and review final-drive servicing where relevant. Look over wiring for aftermarket electrical accessories and test complex features such as electronic suspension or powered screens. A specialist inspection is sensible if you cannot assess mechanical condition yourself.
Quick Recap
Checklist source: MCN’s sport-tourer guide.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
