For most of us, thoroughly considering our options when buying a new bike – or even a car, for that matter – comes second-rate to going after the biggest, shiniest motorcycle in the showroom. We simply can’t help ourselves when we discover a really cool bike. Which is why we couldn’t help but point out a few recent concepts – most of which will be in production in the next couple of years – that we thought were especially sweet.
With recent upgrades in technology, an entirely new era of motorcycles is finally able to begin. There are completely inconceivable possibilities with bikes of the 21st century that would have sounded absolutely outlandish to anyone in the past few decades. The ability to have touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth, and an electric engine are among just a few places to start. However, many of the bikes below aren’t necessarily “tech-ed out” but, instead, have killer upgrades to their performance.
Building an iconic bike that was originally only available as a racing motorcycle is guaranteed to attract major attention. Some of these concepts could sell themselves on their looks, alone, but it’s their internal beauty that brings in experienced riders. These concepts are cutting-edge, both in tech-heavy accessories and in their capabilities. All of which is packaged in a beautifully-designed frame. These modern bikes have incredible edges and curves – which, typically, improves aerodynamics – but also invites you in for just one ride. After checking out some of these concepts, you won’t be sure that you can look at your sub-par café racer the same way again.
42 Concept: Honda Neo Sports Café Racer
Honda has a well-established name, so it undoubtedly brings serious anticipation when a new concept is released. And, the Neo Sports Café Racer is one of the latest creations that should be on every CB fanatic’s must-ride list. This neat naked sport bike is packed with power and has phenomenal suspension that would appeal to seasoned riders. In fact, the Neo Sports Café Racer is meant for the advanced biker. It’s attractive – and also customizable – frame is, both, beautiful and simple. It makes any would-be owner wish they could proudly flaunt one of these. Honda has developed its existing engine from the CB1000R, giving this new concept the 998cc with all of the finishing touches.
41 What We Got: Honda CB1000R
It has earned itself a rather epic reputation, but it’s beginning to look like the CB1000R may have some real competition.
The Neo Sport concept is meant to be built with the same thrilling 998cc engine that exists in the current CB1000R.
Hence, why many claim that this new concept will replace the beloved CB. With no mechanical benefits over the Neo Sport, and an comparably cheaper design, the CB is looking to become an outdated member of the Honda family.
40 Concept: BMW 9cento by BMW Motorrad
A new wave of consumers has decided that bigger isn’t always better. Millennials have turned out to be more minimalistic, choosing products for function and purpose rather than flashiness, which is precisely what BMW Motorrad’s 9cento answers to. Blending touring capabilities with everyday practicality, the 9cento offers excessive storage and comfort. Still, the 9cento’s sleek frame and sport bike DNA is perfect for high-speed thrills. The plush seat and mid-range power is fulfilling for any newbie, and is even fun for the experienced as well.
39 What We Got: Suzuki SV650
The Kawasaki Versys is regarded as one of the best ADV bikes in production. Although, competing with the luxury of a BMW 9cento concept is going to be a tough sell.
Right off the bat, it’s easy to see how much less attractive the body of the Versys looks.
It’s nicely shaped but lacks excitement, both in terms of style and in its lack of luxury accessories and features. The Versys has the same size engine as the 9cento, though, it throttles more like a naked sport.
38 Concept: Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ADV Tourer
After receiving disappointing sales results for the past few years, Harley-Davidson has realized that it’s going to have to revamp its style if it wants to keep up with other US names like Indian. As if it came from the Indian playbook, Harley has decided to target more of the millennials with some fresh, new ideas. After all, the younger generation isn’t too keen on those big, bad Harleys. The Pan America 1250 gives them a soft middle between hardcore biker and wimpy beginner. The concept’s small, sleek frame is inviting, its engine promises a thrill, and the rough tires give it an edgy look and, more importantly, practicality that can’t be resisted. This adventure tourer brings back the Buell Ulysses with an entirely new flair.
37 What We Got: Buell Ulysses
It’s pretty important to note how much the Pan America 1200 resembles one of Harley’s earlier contraptions, the Buell Ulysses. It donned the title of “the world’s first sportbike” but even its historic accomplishments couldn’t save the Buell name.
Sadly, the Ulysses disappeared with the rest of the Buell line in 2009.
The Pan America 1250 picks up on the Ulysses’ note and returns with its own modern aesthetic, which Harley is surely hoping will reel in a few millennials.
36 Concept: Harley-Davidson 975cc Streetfighter
With the current market trends favoring vintage-inspired and naked sport bikes, Harley’s Streetfighter concept seems like a surefire way for them to gain some much-needed traction in their sales. It’s been rumored that the concept will make its way into production in 2020, with the 975cc version of Harley’s new, middle-weight V-twin engine. This is made out to be an exhilarating bike that should give a few competitors a run for their money, including the Z900. With expectations of a cleaner suspension and pricier trim, the anticipation for its release is every enthusiast’s worst enemy.
35 What We Got: Kawasaki Z900
The Harley-Davidson name carries prestige, which is usually enough to garner quite a few buyers. However, the Kawasaki won’t give in without a fight, and the Z900 is a tough candidate for any Harley bike to challenge. The 948cc steed is a thrill for riders of all experience levels, it’s always a hot seller, plus it’s a top-rated beginner’s bike – but with enough excitement to keep newbies entertained. The tragic flaw of the Z900 is its unpopular plastic instrument cluster and coverings. Between stylistic faults and a slightly smaller engine displacement, the Z900 could find itself at a disadvantage if Harley gives the green light to its Streetfighter concept.
34 Concept: TVS Apache RTR 180 RN
The sleek lines of this TVS concept, the RTR 180, has kept enthusiasts hungry for more. The slight curvatures on the front of the bike, paired with its swift tail, has us all wondering if we’ll ever have a chance to spot these on a showroom floor.
Based on the frame of the TVS Apache, the RTR 180 rendering takes on the life of a five-speed, 180cc naked bike with an invigorating style.
Conceptualized to have a bit more power than the standard 150cc naked bikes that are popular in India, Oberdan Bezzi’s TVS design would allow space for increased peppiness and fun.
33 What We Got: Honda CB Hornet 160R
The Honda CB Hornet 160R is a favorite in TVS’s India territory. Although, the long-standing favorability for the Hornet could easily be replaced by the brand-new Apache concept, given that it has a few mechanical and physical features that one-up the dated Honda. For one thing, the CB Hornet 160r has a 163cc engine and an inferior suspension kit. A simple test drive could be sufficient to create a few Apache converts – that is, if TVS ever decides whether or not they’ll ever produce the bike. The Honda CB Hornet is commonly adored, but sometimes the same old isn’t what the market wants.
32 Concept: Harley-Davidson 1250cc Custom Cruiser
The concept bike circus that Harley-Davidson unveiled to the public a few months ago wouldn’t be complete without a sweet cruiser. Harley has taken the trendy cruiser and developed a modern edginess and class. It’s rumored to come with a 1250cc liquid-cooled engine in a relaxed, foot-forward position for optimal pleasure and comfort. Design engineers have opted for a muted look with this concept, avoiding any unnecessary chrome; with most modern bikes, less is more. The cruiser concept has a more deliberate and vintage look that’s believed to answer the younger generation’s hunger for something modern.
31 What We Got: Harley-Davidson Breakout
It may not be a show-stopper, but Harley’s Breakout is a pretty solid bike. It’s a favorite for many seasoned riders because of its 1746cc engine displacement. The Breakout seems reasonably priced based on the amount of horsepower and torque that it carries under its wide, rigid frame.
Although considering the lack of physical finesse that plagues this big bike, it’s a bit overpriced.
While it’s a great option for anyone interested in the plain, conventional look – or for those who have the funds to upgrade it with modern mods – it poses no threat to Harley’s latest cruiser concept that comes ready for the road with nearly the same amount of power.
30 Concept: KTM 790 ADV R
Austrian manufacturer KTM has brought incredible bikes to the table in the past few years. Many of which can hold their own impressively well in the Japanese-dominated adventure bike class. The KTM 790 Adventure R concept boasts KTM’s latest 799cc inline twin engine, which was introduced just last year. The KTM fuel tank is said to offer a 250-mile range and (hopefully) improved gas mileage, although efficiency has never been KTM’s strength. As compared to Triumph’s 800cc bike, the KTM still seems to have more to offer with its premier suspension and upgraded performance.
29 What We Got: Triumph Tiger 800
Currently, the Triumph Tiger 800 is considered to be one of the best middle-weight ADV bikes on the market, its selling point being that it’s a genuine on- and off-road bike. The cushy seat is perfect for 500-mile rides, and it can easily tote a passenger as well as panniers.
The Tiger 800 was a well-planned adventure bike that can handle the road well but is even more of a thrill on rougher terrain.
However, the KTM 790 is no stranger to the off-road, either, and with a fat rear tire and custom suspension, it could prove to be even more capable than its US competitor.
28 Concept: Honda Riding Assist-e
Honda’s Riding Assist-e may not be a conventional motorcycle, but this bike was an ultra-modern concept that we couldn’t ignore. It’s based around a self-balancing concept and is designed to assist the elderly and disabled, and anyone else that finds bike-riding to be a bit of a challenge. Its cutting-edge technology, electric engine, and futuristic appearance give it enough edge to even become popular with younger generations as well. With the significant uprising of electric bikes, the Honda Riding Assist-e is one that shouldn’t be overlooked – even if it’s no CB.
27 What We Got: eZee Sprint
The eZee Sprint was one of the forerunners for the electric bike movement and is still going strong. The e-bike is well known for its simplistic design and cheap price tag. Although, the steep decline in price for the Sprint comes with a few compromises. Unlike the Assist-e, the Sprint doesn’t have any form of self-balancing tech and may not serve the needs of as many disabled. It should also be pointed out that e-bikes, like the Sprint, carry a stigma. Many frown upon this advanced idea, and while the Assist-e is a pretty package, the Sprint can’t say the same.
26 Concept: Alta Motors Redshift Street Tracker
The small California-based motorcycle company, Alta Motors, has received pretty good reception for both variations – MX and Supermoto – of its electric performance bike, the Redshift.
Recently, Alta has put the word out about their latest concoction: a street tracker concept of the Redshift.
Little is known about the street tracker, other than the fact that it’s meant to be an electric bike like the others. In spite of Alta’s extreme secrecy, fans have become enthralled in admiration for the latest concept. Its design is clean but rugged and we can already tell that this bike will be a ton of fun on the streets.
25 What We Got: Alta Motors Redshift SM
While the Redshift Street Tracker isn’t directly comparable with any other ST, the Redshift SM is the closest bike currently in production. The Supermoto is no Ducati, but it’s a small, peppy performance bike with a decent 40 horsepower. Although, the $15k price tag tends to choke potential customers out of the deal. It’s difficult for anyone to part with that much money when you can purchase a gas-powered supermoto, with similar horsepower, for half the price. We’re expecting that the Redshift ST will be able to overcome this price hurdle, and may just be the most successful of Alta Motors’ line.
24 Concept: Yamaha SR400 by Candy Motorcycle Laboratory
Even though Yamaha’s bikes are (for the most part) well-designed, many of these could use a facelift now and again. And, Candy Motorcycle Laboratory has formed their very own take on Yamaha’s SR400, masterfully crossing-over scrambler, tracker, and motocross. Basically, all of the mechanical aspects of the SR400 are practically the same as the original, with the exception of the big carb nabbed from an SR500. Otherwise, the primary focus on this bike revolved around the style. The rugged tires, spoked rims, and even the handlebars speak to the off-roading facet of its personality. From the distinct tank art to the unique frame, you feel like this renewed SR400 drips with elegance and style.
23 What We Got: Yamaha SR400
While the SR400 is a solid bike, it’s no match for the majority of the concepts on this list. The Candy Motorcycle Laboratory’s SR400 is an especially hard bike to beat. Aside from the obvious physical differences, a stock SR400 also suffers from mechanical weakness as well.
From factory, the SR400 is a retro bike that can belt out a satisfying amount of power from its 399cc engine.
However, Candy Motorcycle has upgraded the SR400 carburetor, which gave theirs additional horsepower. The SR400 is reliable and decent looking, but it doesn't have half the spunk of its competitors.