Long-distance motorcycle touring is about freedom, rhythm, and endurance. Hours on the highway, changing weather, unfamiliar roads, and constant wind noise all test your gear — especially the communication system for touring. A touring motorcycle intercom is not the same as a short-ride or commuter intercom. On a multi-day trip, small weaknesses become big problems: […]
Top 5 Commuter Motorcycles in 2025
Getting around the city every day can be super annoying. You've got traffic like molasses nowhere to park, fuel prices through the roof, and buses stuffed like sardine cans make heading to the office a real pain. For loads of folks, getting a motorcycle is a pretty slick move—they’re nimble, cost-effective, and perfect for squeezing through gridlock. But hey, not every moto is cut out for city slicking. Picking the best commuter motorcycles is all about finding that sweet spot between zip-saving gas sitting comfy, and not breaking down easily.
We're gonna dive into what makes a prime commuter motorcycle and show off our top 5 picks that shine in all the right places for city riders.
Table of Contents
Key Features of Commuter Motorcycles
Before diving into our top picks, let’s explore what makes a motorcycle ideal for commuting:
Economy
- Fuel Efficiency: High mileage saves money.
- Low Maintenance: Affordable motorcycle parts and service costs.
Comfort
- Ergonomic Design: Upright seating reduces fatigue.
- Cushioned Seat: Essential for stop-and-go traffic.
Flexibility
- Lightweight Build: Easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Compact Size: Simplifies parking and lane filtering.
Reliability
- Durable Engine: Built to handle daily wear and tear.
- Brand Reputation: Trusted manufacturers matter.
Safety
- ABS Brakes: Prevent wheel lockups.
- Traction Control: Enhances grip on wet roads.
Top 5 Commuter Motorcycles Comparison
| Feature | Suzuki GSX-S750 | Yamaha MT-07 | Kawasaki Ninja 400 | KTM 390 Duke | Honda NC750X |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 749cc, Inline-4 | 689cc, Parallel-Twin | 399cc, Parallel-Twin | 373cc, Single-Cylinder | 745cc, Parallel-Twin |
| Horsepower | ~112 hp | ~75 hp | ~50 hp | ~45 hp | ~58 hp |
| Fuel Economy | ~45 mpg | ~60 mpg | ~68 mpg | ~65 mpg | ~70 mpg |
| Weight | ~208 kg (458 lbs) | ~180 kg (397 lbs) | ~165 kg (374 lbs) | ~158 kg (348 lbs) | ~210 kg (463 lbs) |
| Seat Height | 820 mm (32.3 in) | 805 mm (31.7 in) | 785 mm (30.9 in) | 830 mm (32.7 in) | 800 mm (31.5 in) |
| Comfort Level | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Maneuverability | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Reliability | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Storage Space | No | No | No | No | Yes (Integrated Storage) |
| Best For | Performance Commuters | Balanced Commuters | Beginner-Friendly Sporty Riders | Agile City Riding | Long-Distance & Practicality |
Top 5 Commute Motorcycles
1. Suzuki GSX-S750: Power Meets Practicality
Engine: 749cc inline-4 | Power: 114 HP | Weight: 213 kg | Fuel Efficiency: 45 MPG
The Suzuki GSX-S750 mixes sporty zip with features good for daily commuting. Its inline-4 motor pushes out steady power on the freeway, and the straight-up handlebars with a plush seat make sure you stay comfy on extended trips. This motorcycle's grip control system and ABS make safety super vital for the wild traffic in the city.
Suzuki GSX-S750
Pros:
- Strong acceleration for highway merging.
- Comfortable ergonomics for riders of all sizes.
- Sleek design stands out in urban settings.
Cons:
- Heavier than rivals, affecting agility.
- Fuel efficiency lags behind smaller bikes.
2. Yamaha MT-07: The Agile All-Rounder
Engine: 689cc parallel-twin | Power: 75 HP | Weight: 180 kg | Fuel Efficiency: 60 MPG
The Yamaha MT-07 is a crowd favorite for its lightweight chassis and punchy CP2 engine. Its torquey performance makes zipping through traffic effortless, while the slip-assist clutch ensures smooth gear shifts. The upright riding position and narrow frame allow easy lane filtering.
Yamaha MT-07
Pros:
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio.
- Affordable maintenance and insurance costs.
- Iconic “Master of Torque” design.
Cons:
- Basic suspension setup (non-adjustable).
- Seat foam could be softer for long rides.
3. Kawasaki Ninja 400: Beginner-Friendly Efficiency
Engine: 399cc parallel-twin | Power: 50 HP | Weight: 165 kg | Fuel Efficiency: 68 MPG
The Ninja 400 is perfect for new riders and city commuters. Its lightweight build and peppy engine make it a joy in traffic, while the sporty fairing reduces wind fatigue. The bike’s ABS and slipper clutch add confidence for stop-and-go scenarios.
Kawasaki Ninja 400
Pros:
- Superb fuel economy.
- Low seat height (785mm) suits shorter riders.
- Affordable price tag.
Cons:
- Limited power for highway overtakes.
- Thin seat padding on long rides.
4. KTM 390 Duke: The Tech-Savvy Urban Warrior
Engine: 373cc single-cylinder | Power: 45 HP | Weight: 158 kg | Fuel Efficiency: 65 MPG
The KTM 390 Duke is a lightweight powerhouse packed with tech. Its TFT display offers smartphone connectivity, while the ride-by-wire throttle ensures precise control. The WP suspension and superbike-derived brakes make it agile on crowded streets.
KTM 390 Duke
Pros:
- Cutting-edge electronics (cornering ABS, traction control).
- Sharp handling for dodging potholes.
- Striking, aggressive styling.
Cons:
- Firm seats may discomfort some riders.
- Vibrations at high speeds.
5. Honda NC750X: The Storage King
Engine: 745cc parallel-twin | Power: 58 HP | Weight: 210 kg | Fuel Efficiency: 70 MPG
The Honda NC750X redefines practicality. Its frunk (front storage compartment) replaces the fuel tank, offering 22 liters of space—perfect for groceries or a helmet. The DCT automatic transmission (optional) simplifies riding, while the low-RPM engine delivers stellar fuel efficiency.
Honda NC750X
Pros:
- Unmatched storage solutions.
- Ultra-smooth DCT for stress-free rides.
- Relaxed, upright riding posture.
Cons:
- Heavier than competitors.
- Less thrilling for performance seekers.
Final Verdict: Which Commuter Motorcycle Should You Choose?
- Budget Pick: Kawasaki Ninja 400 (under $6,000).
- Tech Lover: KTM 390 Duke (best electronics).
- Storage Needs: Honda NC750X (practicality reigns).
- Balanced Performance: Yamaha MT-07 (torque + agility).
- Power Enthusiast: Suzuki GSX-S750 (highway dominance).
Conclusion
When you pick out a motorcycle to zip around the city, think about what you're after and how you like to ride. Bikes such as the Suzuki GSX-S750, Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM 390 Duke, and Honda NC750X shine for city folks. So, might you crave that raw power, or is it the sharp style agile moves, cool sporty feel, or even the adaptable tech that calls to you? No matter your taste, these five speedsters are perfect for giving your daily commute a serious boost.
Before you choose, you should take each motorcycle for a spin to get a feel for how they handle and how comfy they are. Plus looking into what they'll cost to own, what you'll pay for insurance, and how much you might sell them for later can guide your decision. If you line up what you need with what these bikes do best, you'll snag yourself the ideal ride for cruising through the city streets, no sweat, and all fun.
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Rodney L is a technical writer and product consultant with over a decade of experience in the motor industry. Rodney is a fan of performance machines that run fast and loud and an expert in all things custom. His numerous articles and write-ups are available at our knowledge base. Whether it’s something wrong with your motorcycle or you are building a custom bike, you can trust Rodney’s experience.
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