2019 felt like a bridge year: manufacturers sharpened electronics, reworked classics, and pushed new powertrains onto showroom floors after a busy run of model launches at EICMA in late 2018. For riders it was an exciting but confusing moment—electronics that once belonged only to race bikes became common on road machines, retro styling returned with modern reliability, and the first high-profile electric road bike started conversations about the future. With so many noteworthy releases across categories, choosing a single 2019 model can be overwhelming.
This roundup highlights ten standout motorcycles that defined 2019 across sport, adventure, and road-going categories—chosen for design, performance, innovation, and real-world value. Each pick balances technical specs (engine displacement, horsepower, electronics), rider experience, and ownership considerations so you can match a bike to how you actually ride. The list is organized into three groups—Sport & Superbikes; Adventure & Touring; and Roadsters, Classics & Cruisers—with quick usage guidance for each model. Read on to find the sportbike, tourer, or retro that best fits your miles and style.
Sport & Superbikes
Criteria for this category are peak performance, chassis precision, advanced rider aids (IMU-based ABS, traction control, slide control), and real-world rideability. In 2019 manufacturers doubled down on V4 and inline-four engines, refined aerodynamic bodywork, and made race-derived tech usable on public roads. These bikes represent the cutting edge of speed and handling—best suited to riders who want track capability with tolerable street manners. Practical note: pick a sportbike for track days and aggressive canyon riding; choose a different class if you need luggage, upright ergonomics, or long-range comfort.
These selections include models that crews showed at EICMA 2018 and that carried momentum into 2019—the year the market split further between all-out superbikes and highly usable sport machines. Track-day riders will appreciate the sharper electronics, while street-focused pilots get improved rideability compared with previous generations. These picks are among the best motorcycles of 2019 for riders prioritizing lap times and chassis feedback.
1. Ducati Panigale V4 — Best overall sportbike
The Panigale V4 earns this slot for pairing a MotoGP-derived V4 engine and a chassis tuned for razor-sharp handling. Ducati introduced the V4 architecture to replace the V-twin Panigale line (debuted late 2018 for the 2019 model year), and the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale pushes around 214 hp in peak trims (factory-rated figures vary slightly by spec).
Ducati’s 2019 electronics suite—cornering ABS, multiple riding modes, traction and slide control—lets riders extract track performance while keeping the bike usable on back roads. The V4 S variant adds Öhlins electronic suspension and lighter wheels for riders who want the extra hardware for track days.
Real-world: equal parts blistering track weapon and canyon ripper if you respect its pace. Typical 2019 MSRPs for V4 models landed in the high five-figure range, with the V4 S pushing toward the upper bracket due to suspension and electronics options.
2. Yamaha YZF-R1 — Best for electronics and track feel
The YZF-R1 keeps a reputation for race-derived chassis dynamics and an advanced electronics package. Its 998cc crossplane-crank inline-four delivers a distinct, tractable power pulse and strong midrange that many riders prefer over more peaky superbikes—Yamaha quotes peak power in the neighborhood of 200 hp depending on spec and market.
The 2019 R1 (and the higher-spec R1M) feature IMU-based traction control, slide control, launch control, and multiple engine maps that make fast laps more consistent and street runs less intimidating. Suspension and frame geometry favor sharp turn-in and stability on the brakes.
Real-world: ideal for riders who want the feel of a race chassis with electronics that help translate that performance to road use. The R1M adds premium Öhlins suspension and telemetry-style features for devoted track riders, with 2019 prices typically under some V4 rivals but still in the sportbike premium tier.
3. BMW S1000RR (2019) — Best high-tech superbike
The 2019 S1000RR marked a major overhaul: higher peak power, lower weight, and a thoroughly modern electronic suite. BMW quoted the 999cc inline-four at roughly 205 hp for the 2019 update, with a new engine architecture and revised chassis that sharpened handling compared with earlier generations.
Key tech includes ride-by-wire, multiple riding modes, an IMU-backed stability package, and a quick-shifter as standard or common option. Premium suspension packages were available, and those options matter for riders chasing lap times or dialing in street comfort.
Real-world: built for fast road runs and track days where split-second electronics and a light, responsive chassis matter. Typical 2019 MSRPs put the S1000RR in the premium superbike bracket, comparable to its European rivals.
4. Kawasaki ZX-10R — Best racer-friendly superbike
The ZX-10R is Kawasaki’s track-proven answer for racers and serious track-day riders. Kawasaki’s 2019-spec ZX-10R continued the brand’s race-focused tuning with aerodynamic bodywork, a torque-rich inline-four, and electronics tailored to lap-time consistency; peak power figures hover near the 200+ hp mark depending on market tuning.
Kawasaki’s race success fed development: aero wings, high-performance brakes, and a suite of rider aids made the ZX-10R a favorite among privateer teams and riders prepping race bikes. The platform supports numerous race-fit aftermarket components commonly fitted in 2019.
Real-world: pick the ZX-10R if you plan consistent circuit use and want a bike that responds well to suspension and ECU tuning. In 2019 it remained competitively priced against other liter-class racers, with MSRPs reflecting its race-ready spec.
Adventure & Touring
This category focuses on comfort, range, luggage options, durability, and off-road capability where applicable. In 2019 long-running models saw meaningful mechanical and electronics updates, and middleweight adventure bikes matured into true mixed-surface tools. Criteria include ergonomics, suspension travel, fuel range, and manufacturer support for touring owners.
For long-haul riders prioritize adjustable suspension and spacious ergonomics; for mixed-terrain riders look for middleweight machines with favorable geometry and weight. Manufacturer service networks and luggage ecosystems also matter for serious touring use.
5. BMW R1250GS — Best for long-distance adventure
The R1250GS remained the benchmark big adventure bike in 2019 after BMW introduced ShiftCam variable valve timing on its boxer engine for that model year. The air/oil-cooled boxer displaces 1,254cc and delivers a broad spread of torque—BMW lists peak torque figures in excess of 125 Nm depending on spec.
ShiftCam improved low-end pull and throttle response, making loaded touring and off-pavement tractability easier. The R1250GS also offered dynamic ESA (electronically adjustable suspension), multiple ride modes, and robust luggage options that riders commonly fit for cross-country trips.
Real-world: comfortable for multi-day rides with typical luggage setups (top box plus panniers) and widely praised for its touring ergonomics. Typical 2019 MSRPs placed fully equipped R1250GS models in the mid to high five-figure range depending on options.
6. KTM 790 Adventure — Best middleweight dual-sport
The KTM 790 Adventure arrived as a lighter, more off-road-capable alternative to heavyweight GS-style bikes. Built around a parallel-twin platform displacing about 799cc, the 790 Adventure offered a useful balance of torque and power (roughly mid-hundred horsepower in stock tune) with chassis geometry and suspension travel designed for mixed surfaces.
Its relatively low weight and long-travel suspension made remote trail riding and mixed-surface touring far less intimidating than on heavier machines. Popular 2019 aftermarket additions included crash bars, skid plates, and compact luggage solutions suited to overlanding.
Real-world: ideal for riders who want nimble off-road agility without sacrificing highway comfort. 2019 pricing positioned the 790 Adventure well below heavyweight RT/GS competition, enhancing its value for adventurous riders on a budget.
7. Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro — Best for sporty long-distance mixed terrain
Ducati’s Multistrada 1260 Enduro mixed a sport-derived 1,262cc Testastretta engine with long-travel suspension and active electronics for mixed-surface capability in 2019. The large-displacement twin brings strong torque throughout the rev range—Ducati listed peak torque figures and hp in line with its 1260 family that year.
The 1260 Enduro featured adjustable traction control, selectable power modes, and Ducati’s chassis electronics to balance sporty handling with touring comfort. Riders often spec luggage packages and protection to make it a true cross-country sport-tourer capable of light gravel and dirt tracks.
Real-world: suits riders who want sportbike performance on long trips and the ability to stray off paved roads. 2019 MSRPs for the Enduro variant reflected its premium positioning, though owners praised its cornering manners and engine character on twisty routes.
Roadsters, Classics & Cruisers
2019 produced a strong run of retro-inspired bikes and the first mainstream electric road model from a major manufacturer. Selection criteria here emphasize styling fidelity, everyday usability, characterful torque delivery, and cultural impact rather than outright lap times.
These picks suit riders who prioritize engagement, relaxed ergonomics, or classic looks. Modern electronics under the skin mean fewer maintenance headaches compared with vintage machines, and electrification began to shift conversations about ownership and commuting in the late 2010s.
8. Kawasaki Z900RS — Best retro-styled roadster
The Z900RS nails the balance between modern performance and classic styling by dressing Kawasaki’s 948cc inline-four in Z1-inspired cues. The engine delivers friendly, accessible power and a usable midrange—displacement is 948cc and power is in a range that makes the bike excellent for daily riding and spirited back-road use.
In 2019 Kawasaki offered a Cafe variant with slightly different ergonomics, while accessory options like upright mirrors, bench seats, and luggage racks let owners tailor the bike for commuting or weekend touring. Maintenance and reliability are much closer to modern machines than true vintage bikes.
Real-world: great for commuters who want retro looks without old-bike headaches, and for riders who value style plus usable performance. 2019 pricing placed the Z900RS as a strong value play in the modern-classic segment.
9. Triumph Speed Twin — Best modern classic roadster
The Speed Twin uses Triumph’s 1,200cc Bonneville-derived parallel twin to deliver torque-rich, characterful performance with a classic silhouette. Introduced as a fresh take in the modern-classic segment around 2019, the Speed Twin emphasized high-quality finishes and refined ergonomics.
Torque-forward delivery and upright ergonomics make it ideal for weekend runs and urban riding. Triumph’s accessory catalog (windscreens, luggage, comfort seats) lets owners tailor the bike for longer trips while retaining that premium feel.
Real-world: owners praise its chassis friendliness and midrange shove; 2019 MSRPs reflected its premium positioning above entry-level retros but below exotic or highly sprung machines.
10. Harley-Davidson LiveWire — Most influential electric motorcycle of 2019
The LiveWire marked Harley-Davidson’s first mainstream electric motorcycle and was publicly revealed with customer deliveries beginning around 2019. Its battery pack and motor delivered instant torque and brisk performance—Harley quoted 0–60 mph times in roughly the 3-second range for early specs.
Claimed range varied by city versus combined cycles; early figures pointed to practical urban commuting ranges rather than long-distance touring—typical in-city ranges were often cited in the ~70–100 mile band depending on riding style and conditions (verify current specs if range is a purchase driver).
Real-world: perfect for urban commuters who want instant acceleration, quiet operation, and reduced maintenance compared with ICE bikes, but buyers faced premium pricing and the need to plan charging. The LiveWire’s 2019 launch forced the industry to take electrification seriously and became a benchmark for subsequent electric models.
Summary
- 2019 blended refined electronics with renewed design variety—manufacturers pushed IMU-based rider aids onto road bikes while also delivering faithful retro styling and the first major electric road models.
- Match the bike to your intended use: pick a Panigale V4 or S1000RR for track-focused performance, an R1250GS or Multistrada 1260 for long-distance adventure, or a Z900RS/Speed Twin for stylish daily riding.
- Middleweight adventure machines and electrification were standout trends in 2019; test-ride candidates like the KTM 790 Adventure and the Harley-Davidson LiveWire to judge trade-offs in weight, range, and comfort.
- Consider total cost of ownership—MSRPs for these top bikes ranged from affordable middleweight pricing to high five-figure premium builds, and maintenance differs between ICE machines and early EVs.
- After you’ve read the specs, get out and test-ride the top bikes from 2019, compare spec sheets, and consult trusted reviews and local dealers to find the model that fits your riding style and budget.
