In 2021 global motorcycle sales and model updates showed a notable shift toward adventure and versatile road bikes, with several manufacturers introducing entirely new platforms. Supply-chain constraints and limited dealer inventories made choosing the right used or new model more consequential that year, while fresh electronics and drivetrain updates pushed what midweight and big-bore bikes could do on real roads and tracks. A focused “best of” list mattered because riders were balancing availability, long-term value, and how new tech would age.
Selection here prioritized real-world performance, technological innovation, ownership value, and critical acclaim from respected outlets. The picks span sport, adventure/touring, and everyday/naked/electric categories to reflect practical choices across riding styles.
This roundup aims to point readers to ten standout machines from 2021 that earned rider trust and reviewer praise, and it groups them into three categories with numbered entries for quick comparison.
Sport & Performance Bikes
Sport bikes in 2021 continued to set engineering benchmarks: sharper aerodynamics, richer electronics suites, and chassis upgrades that translated directly to faster lap times and clearer rider feedback. Many top models that year still clustered around 955–999cc displacements, and magazines like Cycle World and Motorcyclist repeatedly cited handling and electronic refinement when ranking the year’s best superbikes.
1. Ducati Panigale V2
The Panigale V2 balanced flagship-level behavior with more usable power, and it was a favorite among riders and reviewers in 2021. Its 955cc V-twin produces about 155 hp at the crank in stock trim, and Ducati packaged sophisticated electronics—cornering ABS, multiple traction-control maps, and ride-by-wire throttle—derived from the brand’s higher-end models.
That combination makes the V2 equally at home on track days and spirited street runs: tight-feeling chassis geometry and predictable power delivery help newer sport riders push limits without being overwhelmed. Ducati’s 2021 model literature and mainstream reviews praised the bike’s feedback and versatility, while many owners reported using it for both canyon blasts and two-up weekend runs. Typical 2021 MSRPs for European and U.S. markets were around sixteen thousand dollars, depending on options and region.
2. Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP
Honda’s 2021 Fireblade SP aimed squarely at razor-sharp track performance rather than relaxed street ergonomics. The 999cc inline-four is tuned for high-rpm power, and Honda focused the package on aerodynamics, chassis stiffness, and engine tuning to extract lap pace.
The SP variant comes with Öhlins electronic suspension and upgraded brakes, plus telemetry-friendly electronics that experienced track riders appreciate. Press coverage in 2021 highlighted the Blade’s exceptional cornering stability and acceleration on circuits, though its aggressive riding position and firm suspension make long-distance comfort a compromise. For capable track riders seeking a near-homologation experience without full race prep, the Fireblade SP was a clear choice in 2021.
3. Yamaha YZF-R1
The Yamaha R1 brings MotoGP-derived thinking to the road, and in 2021 it remained a platform where racing tech met usable control. Its crossplane-crank inline-four gives a distinctive torque pulse and tractable midrange, while a broad suite of rider aids—slide and lift control, unified braking modes, and selectable power maps—help translate power into lap-time gains.
Yamaha issued minor firmware and color updates for 2021, and reviewers continued to praise the R1’s chassis balance and track manners. The bike rewards riders who want a genuine track tool that still behaves on B-roads, provided they match the machine with appropriate skill and setup.
Adventure & Touring Bikes
Adventure and touring machines dominated many riders’ wish lists in 2021 thanks to their mix of capability, comfort, and usable tech for long trips. Several manufacturers refreshed or launched large-displacement adventure platforms that year, and advances in electronics and suspension made long-distance riding more confident and relaxed.
4. BMW R 1250 GS
The R 1250 GS continued as a top recommendation in 2021 for riders wanting a do-it-all machine: a 1254cc boxer twin with BMW’s ShiftCam variable valve timing gives broad torque and smooth power across the rev range. Ergonomics favor long days in the saddle, and BMW’s catalog of luggage, guards, and electronic accessories is extensive.
In practical terms the GS suits freeway miles, technical dirt tracks, and loaded touring equally well—many owners combine aftermarket panniers and comfort seats to turn the bike into a true long-range tool. Sales trends in 2021 showed the GS remained a strong seller for BMW, buoyed by decades of proven capability and a large dealer support network.
5. Ducati Multistrada V4
The Multistrada V4 marked Ducati’s major 2021 entry into long-range tech, debuting the V4 Granturismo engine for the model line and offering radar-based rider assists on higher trims. That radar package added adaptive cruise and blind-spot alerts, extending highway comfort and situational awareness on long runs.
Riders found the V4 to be surprisingly sporty for a big-tourer: it can carve canyon roads without feeling cumbersome, yet it carries luggage and passenger weight with confidence. Ducati’s 2021 announcements emphasized the bike’s role as a versatile sport-tourer, and real-world touring scenarios—motorway miles interrupted by gravel connectors—showed how radar cruise removed monotony on long stretches.
6. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250
Harley-Davidson’s Pan America 1250 was the brand’s first serious push into adventure touring in 2021, powered by the Revolution Max 1250 engine. The platform emphasized mixed-surface capability: long-travel suspension, multiple rider modes, and an adventure-oriented ergonomics package.
The Pan America aimed to attract both loyal Harley riders and newcomers wanting on-/off-road versatility, and Harley offered accessory and touring packages to expand range and luggage capacity. The 2021 launch signaled Harley’s strategic move into a fast-growing segment and gave riders a familiar brand with genuinely new capability.
Everyday, Naked & Electric Bikes
2021 also produced standout everyday machines: midweight nakeds, approachable cruisers, and a growing selection of electric options. Buyers prioritized usability—seat height, manageable weight, and predictable power—and several manufacturers stepped up offerings aimed squarely at commuters and weekend riders.
7. Kawasaki Z900
The Kawasaki Z900 was a strong midweight naked in 2021, packing a 948cc inline-four that delivers lively, torque-rich performance without a hyper-aggressive riding position. The engine’s flexible low- and midrange makes city commutes and backroad blasts equally enjoyable.
Ergonomics are relatively upright, and ABS and simple electronics on 2021 models make the Z900 a confidence-inspiring everyday bike. Kawasaki priced it competitively in the midweight segment, with typical MSRPs in the mid-to-high eight-thousand-dollar range, making it good value for riders who want usable power without race-bike commitments.
8. Triumph Street Triple RS
The Street Triple RS remained a benchmark middleweight naked in 2021 thanks to its 765cc triple and an agile, communicative chassis. The RS trim adds premium suspension, refined electronics, and a sharper throttle response that reward spirited riding.
For many riders the Street Triple is the sweet spot: nimble around town, confidence-inspiring on twisty roads, and comfortable enough for short tours. Triumph’s 765 family continued to attract riders who value handling finesse and a compact, lively powertrain.
9. Zero SR/F (Electric)
The Zero SR/F was among the most capable electric motorcycles in 2021, bridging commuter practicality and sporty performance with instant torque and relatively advanced software. Zero’s claimed peak output sat around the high‑double-digit horsepower range, and firmware updates in 2021 improved ride modes and throttle response.
Real-world city ranges for the SR/F commonly fell in the 100–160 mile band, depending on pack size, riding style, and temperature, while highway speeds reduce range noticeably. Charging options varied: Level 2 home charging is convenient for daily use, and adding DC fast-charging infrastructure shortens turnaround for longer trips. For urban riders who value low maintenance and brisk acceleration, the SR/F was a compelling 2021 option despite continuing range and charging trade-offs.
10. Royal Enfield Meteor 350
The Meteor 350 was Royal Enfield’s 2021 answer for riders seeking relaxed, everyday cruising and approachable power. Its 349cc single-cylinder engine prioritizes smooth, low-rev torque and easy throttle response, and the bike’s ergonomics favor upright comfort for city riding and short tours.
Simplicity is part of the appeal: basic electronics, straightforward maintenance, and a price point that made the Meteor attractive to learners, commuters, and budget-minded enthusiasts. For those who want a friendly, easy-to-ride machine with classic styling, the Meteor delivered practical charm in 2021.
Summary
- Selection focused on real-world performance, innovation, value, and critical praise—each pick exemplifies at least one of those criteria from 2021.
- Across the board: adventure tech surged, midweight nakeds delivered strong value, and electric models began offering genuinely usable urban range.
- 2021 model choices often reflected availability and dealer inventory limits, so checking local stock and option packages paid off for buyers.
- For anyone shopping retrospectively, the best motorcycles of 2021 still offer compelling strengths—test rides and comparison shopping remain the smartest next steps.
