The power and performance delivered by manufacturers these days by their road bikes feels like you could almost be a MotoGP rider. Don’t watch yourself back on video though, it never looks as fast as it feels.
Naked bikes, for those new to the world of two wheels and needing to understand the lingo, are traditionally based on sportsbikes but with less farings. That also tends to mean a more upright riding position and some money off the asking price.
Below are my top picks for hitting the road and burning some rubber in 2024.
READ MORE: Top 5 Learner Bikes
KTM Super Duke 1390 R
From $31,795 ride-away
Just when you thought the Super Duke didn’t need to be any more super, you guessed wrong. ‘Ready to Race’ is KTM’s motto but it’s an understatement with this ride. I think most motorcyclists need an updated ‘hoonigan’ license to ride this thing – 1390cc (it’s actually 1350cc) with a mind-warping amount of power, 190hp at 10,000 rpm vs. its predecessor, the 1290 Duke, which sits at 177hp.
REVIEW: 2024 KTM Duke range review
Considering how satisfied I was with the power output riding the 890, my brain struggles to compute how the 1390cc would handle. But according to the industry peeps I’ve spoken to, quite well. Intimidating to look at, its stealth lines give off brutal, alien predator vibes, and I’d hate to meet it in a dark alley. Unless, of course, it had the keys in it. I’ll be taking one for a spin soon so keep an eye out for that review.
Ducati Street Fighter V4
From $35,600 ride-away
One of the most incredible street bikes I’ve ever ridden. This super-aggressive, sexy, stylish sports naked is an absolute weapon. Apparently, the front design is inspired by the comic book villain the Joker. I personally don’t see the reference, but I enjoy this fun fact and it’s the perfect nod to how bonkers this thing is to ride.
READ MORE: Lamborghini-inspired Ducati revealed
It’s everything crazy about the Panigale V4 but stripped of its fairings, with a far more comfortable, taller riding position, higher and wider handlebars, still with a terrible turning circle, but that is forgiven because of its F-22 Raptor-like qualities. And even though I think it looks more aggressive than the Panigale V4, it feels far less aggressive on the road, as if it’s meant for the track but oh so comfortable for a weekend burn. It is a gorgeous mix of street style combined with track ferocity.
The Streetfighter V4 comes in at 195kg wet with no fuel, with a 1103cc 208hp (loads of pony) Desmosedici Stradale engine, a 16L tank, quickshifter, and the latest spec electronics.
Yamaha MT-07
From $13,799 ride-away
For anyone who loves their Yammy, the MT-07 has been a stalwart in years gone by, with a cult following from your daily rider to professional motorcycle racers like World Champion Jessica Gardner.
Yamaha has not rested on their laurels after years of positive feedback, instead they continue to refine this package and keep it attractive and competitive in the market in terms of value for money, approachable ergonomics, and dynamic, agile handling. This little beauty is considered a Hyper Naked middleweight and is surprisingly Learner approved with a 689cc CP2 two-cylinder engine which comes in at 184kg wet with a 14L tank and smartphone connectivity – the norm for street bikes these days.
Aprilia Tuono 660
From $22,740 ride-away
We don’t see these flooding the streets, but the Tuono 660 packs a lot of punch for its middleweight classification. The sticking point here is the price. But removing that element from the conversation (not so easy to do when budgeting for your next purchase), the Tuono delivers top spec features not seen on the other middleweight nakeds, such as up and down quick shifter, 100hp at 10,500rpm, with torque sitting at 67Nm at 8500rpm, a suite of upgraded electronics, adjustable suspension, five ride modes, and cruise control.
It is considered a naked but possibly needs to get a bit more nude for that title in my eyes. A lightweight and agile performer, delivering consistent and fun power with less chance of you setting fire to your license than other bikes on this list. Definitely worth a test ride!
Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS
From $28,990 ride-away
It’s hard to go past an English classic. I am yet to hear a bad word whispered about this rocket ship. Front on it has a protruding outer space bug-like design that has been a hit, but it’s the refined handling and smooth power delivery that has tongues wagging.
Delivering 177hp at 10,750 and 124Nm of torque at 9000 rpm, the Triumph’s triple engine comes in at 1160cc. It’s also great to hear it’s been developed with the Moto2 race engine program. For $500, you can option up and take it home in matte Baja orange or Carnival red to get the party started.
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