Motorcycle registrations in key markets rebounded in 2022 after pandemic slowdowns, with several manufacturers launching milestone models that redefined performance and versatility. That rebound—roughly a 12% uptick in some regions—made 2022 a lively model year for riders weighing upgrades, cross-shopping categories, or buying their first big bike.
Model-year roundups matter because they collect new tech, emissions-driven updates, and refreshed lineups in one place, so buyers can compare what genuinely improves everyday riding versus what’s just marketing. Our selection emphasizes handling, engine performance, real-world usability, value, electronics, and reviewer consensus. Those criteria steer us toward bikes that work on the road, on a trip, or at a track day—not just on a spec sheet.
Below are ten standout bikes from 2022 across sport, adventure/touring, and urban/retro/cruiser categories, with quick specs, price windows, and the rider types who get the most out of each model.
Performance & Sport Bikes
Electronics suites matured in 2022, chassis refinements tightened, and a few homologation-derived models reminded us that raw speed still has a place. Sportbikes this year ranged from track-focused rockets to street-legal all-rounders that you can commute on and still take to a race school.
Among the best motorcycles of 2022, the emphasis was on peak power and tuned chassis, sophisticated traction and ABS systems, and quickshifters that make hot-lap riding more accessible. Below each H3 lists key specs, a rough price range, and recommended rider use-cases—track days, spirited street riding, or a mix of both.
1. Ducati Panigale V4 — Best Superbikes for Track Performance
The Panigale V4 is 2022’s benchmark for outright track-focused performance. Its 1,103 cc V4 produces about 214 hp in S-spec trim and pairs with advanced aero and Öhlins suspension on the S and higher packages.
Magazine track tests put the V4 near the top of literbike lap times thanks to its chassis balance and electronics suite—cornering ABS, multiple traction-control maps, and a seamless quickshifter. U.S. MSRP for S-level builds typically sits in the $25,000–$30,000 bracket, depending on options.
Who should consider it: performance-minded riders and weekend track-day regulars who want race-level behavior in a road-legal package.
2. Yamaha YZF-R1 — Best All-Around Sportbike
The R1 blends MotoGP-derived tech with street usability. Its 998 cc crossplane inline-four makes near 197 hp, and Yamaha carries over sensor and control logic from its race efforts to give precise throttle and traction management.
Typical 2022 U.S. MSRP hovered around $17,000, which undercuts many homologation machines while offering strong long-term reliability. That balance makes the R1 a great pick for daily rides, canyon carving, and occasional track days.
Who benefits most: riders wanting race-derived performance without the constant maintenance demands of a full-on superbike.
3. Aprilia RS 660 — Best Lightweight Sport Handling
The RS 660 arrived as a middleweight that feels much sharper than its displacement suggests. A compact ~660 cc parallel twin delivers roughly 100 hp and, paired with a wet weight near 183 kg, yields exceptional agility.
Aprilia tuned the chassis and electronics for cornering confidence, and owner reviews routinely praise its balance between usable power and precise handling. MSRP in 2022 was around $11,000–$12,000, making it an appealing step up for newer sport riders.
Ideal for: riders who want high cornering confidence and rewarding handling without overwhelming power.
4. BMW M 1000 RR — Best Track-Focused Performance with Electronics
BMW M division pushed homologation-level performance in 2022. The M 1000 RR uses a tuned 999 cc inline-four that produces around 212 hp and adds M-specific aero and carbon components on special editions.
Its advanced electronics—refined traction control, wheelie control, launch modes, and telemetry—make it a serious track tool while keeping it street legal. Expect top-end pricing well into the $30,000 range for M-spec variants.
Best for: serious track enthusiasts who want near-homologation performance without building a race-only bike.
Adventure & Touring Motorcycles
In 2022 manufacturers refined ergonomics, tuned emissions-compliant engines, and integrated luggage and comfort packages that made long-distance riding easier. The category splits between long-distance tourers focused on highway miles and rugged adventure bikes built to handle dirt and gravel.
Key buyer considerations here are engine displacement and torque for loaded touring, fuel range, and the trade-offs between off-road capability and on-road comfort. Below we note touring range, luggage compatibility, comfort features, and off-road aptitude for each model.
5. BMW R1250 GS — Best for Long-Distance Adventure Touring
The R1250 GS remained the reference for long-range adventure riding in 2022. Its 1,254 cc boxer with ShiftCam delivers about 134–136 hp and a broad, usable torque curve that carries heavy loads without fuss.
Comfort-focused ergonomics, generous fuel tanks, and a vast aftermarket of cases and protection gear make multi-hundred-mile days and two-up transcontinental trips straightforward. Expect MSRPs in the roughly $17,000–$20,000 range depending on options and packages.
Choose this if you need range, comfort, and an accessory ecosystem that supports long, loaded touring.
6. Honda Africa Twin — Best Value Adventure Bike
The CRF1100L Africa Twin offers strong off-road capability at a friendlier price than many flagship adventure machines. Its 1,084 cc parallel twin makes around 100–105 hp and benefits from Honda’s reputation for reliability and lower ownership costs.
Notable in 2022 was the availability of the DCT automatic transmission option, which eases fatigue on long stages and technical terrain. U.S. pricing typically sat near $14,000–$16,000 depending on trim.
Recommended for riders who want genuine off-road competence and sensible running costs for weekend overland trips.
7. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R — Best Off-Road Capability with Tech
KTM’s 1290 Super Adventure R pairs big-bore torque with long-travel WP suspension and off-road rider aids. The 1,301 cc V-twin delivers substantial torque usable on technical terrain and steep climbs.
Features like off-road ABS modes, durable chassis components, and generous suspension travel make it ideal for remote gravel routes and technical approaches. Pricing sits above mid-tier adventure bikes, but the off-road performance is class-leading.
Best for: riders prioritizing long-travel suspension and on-demand torque for rough terrain and remote routes.
Urban, Retro & Cruisers
This category appealed in 2022 because it mixes accessibility and everyday usability with style-driven choices. Manufacturers balanced modern powertrains and rider aids with classic looks, producing bikes that work as daily commuters, weekend cruisers, or lifestyle purchases.
Riders should weigh ergonomics for city riding, the trade-offs between styling and convenience, and overall ownership costs—these bikes often offer lower entry prices than flagship sport or tourers while still delivering strong personality and performance.
8. Kawasaki Z900 — Best Midweight Naked Bike for Everyday Riding
The Z900 combines a torquey 948 cc inline-four with relaxed ergonomics and a lightweight chassis, making it a sensible choice for 2022 riders who need a do-it-all middleweight. Peak power sits near 125 hp and the package feels lively without being intimidating.
U.S. MSRP in 2022 was about $8,999, and the bike’s manageable seat height and agile handling make it excellent for commuting, weekend canyon runs, and for riders stepping up from smaller bikes.
Ideal user: daily commuters who want a sporty edge on weekends.
9. Triumph Speed Twin 1200 — Best Classic-Retro with Modern Performance
The Speed Twin blends classic British styling with a modern 1,200 cc parallel twin that produces roughly 96–100 hp, backed by quality suspension and brakes for confident urban and country riding.
Pricing in 2022 hovered around $11,000–$12,000. A lively aftermarket lets riders add luggage, comfort seats, or touring windshields, so the bike works well around town and for relaxed weekend tours.
Best for: riders who want retro styling without sacrificing modern performance and day-to-day comfort.
10. Harley-Davidson Sportster S — Best Modern Cruiser
Harley’s Sportster S reimagines the Sportster line with the Revolution Max 1,252 cc powerplant delivering strong low-end torque and claimed peak power in the low triple digits. The bike pairs modern chassis and brakes with familiar cruiser ergonomics.
In 2022 pricing sat near $14,000–$15,000, and Harley’s vast dealer and accessory ecosystem makes personalization straightforward. The Sportster S suits riders who want classic cruiser feel with contemporary performance.
Who should consider it: those drawn to Harley’s brand, customization options, and a modern cruiser that still rides like a Sportster.
Summary
- 2022 mixed mature electronics with a wide range of price points, so you can find class-leading bikes from middleweights to homologation machines.
- Choose based on real use: track-oriented riders should prioritize chassis and electronics, tourers need torque and range, and urban buyers should value ergonomics and running costs.
- Surprising takeaway: excellent, usable performance existed at many price levels—you’re not limited to six-figure spending to get standout handling or tech.
- Before buying, test-ride bikes, confirm local MSRP and insurance costs, and consult long-form reviews and dealers for option-specific advice.
