2024 Motorcycle of the Year

10 Finalists and One Winner!

2024 Motorcycle of the Year

In Rider Rewind, a special section in 2024 issues that celebrates moments in Rider’s 50-year history, we showcased Motorcycles of the Year for 1990-2006 in the October issue and for 2007-2023 in the November issue.

Motorcycle of the Year May 1990 Touring Top Ten
Our May 1990 issue included our Touring’s Top Ten Awards, the precursor of the Motorcycle of the Year award.

For the past 35 years, Rider’s editors have reviewed the annual batch of new and significantly updated motorcycles and narrowed them down to a handful of finalists. The Motorcycle of the Year is the bike we believe best fulfills its intended purpose and advances the state of motorcycle design, performance, and function.

May 1990 Touring Top 10
Our May 1990 issue states “Among the eight motorcycle and two miscellaneous categories, there will be no ties, no honorable mentions. Just Touring’s Top Ten as determined by the Rider staff.”

In the early days, we published the Touring Top Ten, which included the best seven motorcycles in various categories, two general categories (such as Top Innovation), and a Motorcycle of the Year. We limited motorcycles to those in the current model year, and production timing used to be so early that we published the Touring Top Ten in the May issue.

As the magazine’s mission expanded, our annual awards evolved. In 1999 – our 25th anniversary – they became Rider’s Top Ten. In 2003, we adopted our current format of selecting a top tier of finalists and one winner. Production timing has changed such that the MOTY selection was pushed later into the year, and we began to include current and upcoming model years because they now often overlap.

May 1990 Touring's Top 10 BMW K1
The 1990 Bike of the Year was the BMW K1: “And even if the K1’s sizzling paint and aerodynamic bodywork fails to impress, with its unique Motronic ignition/fuel injection, Paralever rear suspension/swingarm that eliminates shaft-drive jacking and innovative approach to various rider conveniences – not to mention ABS – the K1 is truly a technological achievement for BMW, if not the motorcycle industry.”

For the 2024 Motorcycle of the Year, there were nearly 100 eligible contenders. We narrowed them down to 10 finalists and one winner. 

Related: 2023 Motorcycle of the Year

Without further ado…


2024 Motorcycle of the Year Finalists

1. Can-Am Origin and Pulse

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Can-Am Origin
Can-Am Origin

Re-entering the motorcycle market after a decades-long hiatus, Can-Am has embraced the electric future with the Origin dual-sport and the Pulse roadster, which are propelled by a 11-kW Rotax E-Power motor with an 8.9-kWh battery, producing 47 hp and 53 lb-ft of torque. The bikes have innovative features like active regeneration and an enclosed drive chain in an oil bath with an automatic tensioning system.

Read our Can-Am Origin and Pulse Review


2. CFMOTO Ibex 450

2024 Motorcycle of the Year CFMOTO Ibex 450
CFMOTO Ibex 450

CFMOTO has been selling motorcycles in the U.S. for only a few years, and it continues to expand its lineup. Its new Ibex 450 is a highly capable rally-style adventure bike powered by a 449cc parallel-Twin that makes 44 hp and 32.5 lb-ft of torque. Priced at just $6,499, it’s equipped with tubeless spoked wheels, switchable ABS and TC, adjustable suspension and seat height, and more.

Read our CFMOTO Ibex 450 First Ride Review


3. Honda CB650R and CBR650R

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Honda CBR650 R
Honda CBR650R with E-Clutch

Honda’s CB650R naked bike and CBR650R sportbike received expected updates like new styling, a TFT display, and revised switchgear. Unexpected was the new E-Clutch, which enables riders to start, stop, and change gears without using the clutch lever. Riders can switch between automatic and manual clutch operation, giving newbies a helping hand and veterans more flexibility.

Read our Honda CB650R and CBR650R with E-Clutch Review


4. Husqvarna Svartpilen 801

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Husqvarna Svartpilen 801
Husqvarna Svartpilen 801

In the evolution of the Husqvarna Svartpilen from 701 to 801, its 673cc Single was replaced with the 799cc LC8c parallel-Twin also found in KTM’s 790 Duke and 790 Adventure. Compared to the 701, the 801 has more horsepower (105), more torque (64.2 lb-ft), and a higher power-to-weight ratio. The “Black Arrow” is brimming with useful tech, is a full-tilt backroad bomber, and won’t break the bank at $10,899.

Read our Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 First Ride Review


5. Indian Scout Lineup

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Indian Scout 101
Indian Scout 101

A decade after its 2015 debut, Indian’s Scout platform got a full makeover. The cast-aluminum frame was replaced with a tubular-steel unit, and the entire lineup is now powered by the SpeedPlus 1250 V-Twin, which produces 105 hp (110 on the 101 Scout) and 82 lb-ft of torque. Five models – Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, Scout Classic, Super Scout, and 101 Scout – are available in three trim levels.

Read our Indian Scout First Ride Review


6. KTM 890 SMT

2024 Motorcycle of the Year KTM 890 SMT
KTM 890 SMT

SMT stands for “Supermoto Touring,” two words not normally used together to describe one motorcycle. The original 2010-2013 KTM 990 SMT was a touring variant of a big-bore Supermoto platform, while the new 890 SMT is a sport-touring variant of the 890 Adventure R mixed with some 890 Duke bits. With 17-inch wheels shod with sticky tires, it’s a hooligan’s dream with enough comfort for weekend getaways.

Read our KTM 890 SMT Review


7. Royal Enfield Himalayan

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Royal Enfield Himalayan
Royal Enfield Himalayan

When Royal Enfield’s Himalayan adventure bike debuted in 2016, it was a solid but low-power, low-tech machine. It got a major overhaul this year, with a new liquid-cooled 452cc Single that makes more power (39.5 hp, up from 24) and torque (29.5 lb-ft, up from 24), a new chassis, and more modern features and styling. We were impressed with its capabilities when we tested it in the Himalayas.

Read our Royal Enfield Himalayan First Ride Review


8. Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+

The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+, Rider’s 2022 MOTY, delivered “all the performance a street rider needs in a refined, comfortable, sophisticated package at a reasonable [price].” The new GX+ version is taller with a more upright riding position, blending sport-touring with attributes of an ADV to be the “supreme sport crossover.” It also has a 6-axis IMU and Suzuki’s first electronic suspension system.

Read our Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+ First Ride Review


9. Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Triumph Speed 400
Triumph Speed 400

Known for its 675cc-and-up sportbikes, ADVs, roadsters, and neo-classics, Triumph expanded its lineup with the Speed 400 roadster and Scrambler 400 X, both powered by a 398cc Single. They’re fun, stylish bikes that are beginner- and budget-friendly – just $4,995 for the Speed 400 and $5,595 for the Scrambler 400 X. If we’re going to attract the next generation, we need more bikes like these.

Read our Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X First Ride Review


10. Yamaha MT-09/SP

2024 Motorcycle of the Year Yamaha MT-09 SP
Yamaha MT-09 SP

The MT-09 is a hugely popular bike for Yamaha, so much so that it is now in its fourth generation since being introduced in 2014. We’ve always been big fans of its rowdy inline-Triple. Updated for 2024, the bike is a riot to ride yet offers a high level of refinement and sophistication for $10,599. The SP version, which gets up-spec suspension and brakes, is even better.

Read our Yamaha MT-09 First Ride Review

Read our Yamaha MT-09 SP Review


And the 2024 Motorcycle of the Year winner is…

BMW R 1300 GS

2024 Motorcycle of the Year BMW R 1300 GS
BMW R 1300 GS

Thousands of street-legal motorcycles have been released over the past 50 years, and we’ve ridden and evaluated as many of them as we could get our hands on. Most have been good, some have been great, but only a few have achieved icon status.

Two such motorcycles – Honda’s Gold Wing and BMW’s R-series GS – certainly qualify as icons, and both have won Rider’s Motorcycle of the Year award twice. The Gold Wing won in 2001 and 2018, and the BMW R-GS won in 1995 and 2005.

With the introduction of the R 1300 GS for 2024, BMW’s R-series GS can add a third Rider MOTY title to its long list of awards and accolades.

2024 Motorcycle of the Year BMW R 1300 GS
BMW R 1300 GS

Over the past two decades, the adventure-bike segment has exploded, and nearly every manufacturer offers multiple adventure models, ranging in size from less than 400cc to well over 1,200cc. The genesis of this trend – one of the few bright spots in the motorcycle industry since the Great Recession of 2008 – can be traced back to 1980, when BMW launched the R 80 G/S. It was the first motorcycle that delivered on-road comfort and performance and genuine off-road capability in equal measure.

The R-series GS evolved steadily over time, with engine displacement increasing, new features and technology being added, and market share growing. The R-series GS is BMW’s bestselling model, and the one-millionth boxer-powered GS was built in mid-2023. Last September, on the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad’s first production motorcycle, the new R 1300 GS was unveiled.

2024 Motorcycle of the Year BMW R 1300 GS
BMW R 1300 GS

Development of the R 1300 GS started seven years ago – two years before the R 1250 GS was introduced. Having squeezed as much as possible out of the existing platform, which started with the R 1200 GS introduced in 2004, BMW knew that taking the R-series GS into the future and maintaining its position in the market required a clean-sheet design. Only the butterfly valves and a few bolts and connectors carry over from the R 1250 GS.

The design objectives were to make the R 1300 GS lighter, more compact, more powerful, and more capable than its predecessor. The new GS weighs 26 lb less than the R 1250 GS. Displacement increased from 1,254cc to 1,300cc, peak horsepower was boosted from 136 to 145, and peak torque increased from 105 to 110 lb-ft.

2024 Motorcycle of the Year BMW R 1300 GS
BMW R 1300 GS

The R 1300 GS has new electronic rider aids, a completely new frame, and upgraded EVO Telelever and EVO Paralever suspension with optional adaptive vehicle height control. The GS’s new styling has been somewhat controversial, particularly its more aerodynamic bodywork and X-shaped matrix headlight, but BMW designers wanted to set the R 1300 GS apart from its predecessors.

After test riding the R 1300 GS on- and off-road at its global launch, we had this to say: “Hands down, the R 1300 GS is the best GS yet. The traits that the boxer-powered GS are known for – engine character, balance, comfort, and versatility – are better than ever. It looks and feels much slimmer than before, and the increased power and torque are impressive.”

Congratulations to BMW for the R 1300 GS, Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle of the Year!

To find a BMW dealer near you, visit the BMW Motorrad website.

53 COMMENTS

    • My thoughts exactly. This worship of BMW GS bikes in the Adv realm is one of the reasons I was turned off against this activity. It seems that all the rides, riding schools and accessories are mostly geared towards those wealthy “wannabes” who can afford the lates Gucci bikes, that they mostly only use for a Starbucks run. It seems that Rider is in BMW pocket.

  1. This new 1300 GS is a fine looking adventure bike available only to those with a high level of disposable income. The price is crowding $30,000 which is out of reach for a lot of people. I happen to own one of the 10 finalists. I picked up my Triumph Scrambler 400X for $5595.00 USD. I may add some things to the bike but they won’t break the bank.

    I feel that a motorcycle that is affordable to first time buyers and senior riders is more important. There is more value in a bike that can help grow the sport rather than one that is only going to be purchased by those with deep pockets. I happen to be 74 and the 400 was a perfect bike for me to keep riding for a few more years.

    • I agree about price! Yes they are fantastic motorcycles but regular maintenance is out the roof. Probably just to pull in to dealership for oil and filter change is $600??
      I’ll just take Japanese!

      • $600 I doubt it….why would you not just change the oil yourself. Keep all the receipts and it still keeps the bike good to go regarding warranty. If anyone is not able to change the oil on their bike they need to stop riding and stay in the car….basic maintenance is a no brainer

    • I’m also 74 and the important thing to me is seat height. Almost all of there Adventures have a seat height over 32 inches. 30 is my max. Even with adjustable height, they are all too tall. Even the HD Panam. But keep on riding whatever is comfortable and affordable. We’re a dying breed (pun intended)

  2. What does one say to his insurance company when he crashes a 30,000 dollar dirt bike ? How much does it cost to repair one after you slide on some wet leaves on the trail and hit a tree?

    • The BMW S1000XR had 5,000 miles on it when I hit the driver’s side of a Tacoma pickup truck at 30-35 mph. The air bag saved my life. I bought it for $25,000, the insurance company paid $24,600. The truck drivers insurance bought all new equipment and paid the ER bill.

    • Had a BMW 1150 RT bought new and was 1 yr old when I hit a Harley that crossed over to my lane head on. My bike was totaled. HIS insurance company(Progressive) paid for a new bike, new Aero stitch $1200 suit, new $500 Shoei helmet, new boots. And since it was the other guy’s fault his insurance company also gave me $100,000 and paid all medical bills. I fractured a wrist

  3. It amazes me that there are no road going touring bikes in this whole line up. There is not one I would expect my wife to ride on the back of on that miniscule pad. Only 1 with real luggage (saddlebags only). The 105 HP Indians don’t even have rear seats. I’m not sure what category the MOTY fits into. I’m sure it’s a very fine bike, but not passenger friendly, no luggage, very little wind protection all for 30G!? I suppose I have witnessed the golden days of motorcycling come and gone. Days when you could go into the motorcycle dealership, any brand, and there were motorcycles galore! All sizes and types in stock! Dealers were enthusiasts that actually rode! Those days are gone. It’s all about sales (that are floundering) and the money making. I’m soon going to be 66. I have a ’07 GW (145,000 mi.) and ’06 Road Star 1700 (and ’76 XS 650 bobber, and a retired ’00 Venture with 259,000 mi.). I suppose I’ll try to make them last as long as possible. Maybe they’ll do me to the end? There are precious few new models I would even look at much less consider buying! None of these 11! Man, bikes are getting uglier and uglier!

    • Well said, I have a new 2024 Moto Guzzi V100 “S” model that I put 16,000km(approximately 10,000mi) since May 3, and I can honestly say that, in my almost 55 years of riding motorbikes,this is the most thrilling and enjoyable motorcycle, I have ever owned and ridden, I currently have five motorcycles, one of which is also a 2012 Moto Guzzi, Stelvio, NTX1200

  4. Great review & shootout Rider Magazine and congrats to BMW for again, raising the bar of their GS series once again. 😀😀

  5. I recently purchased s Honda Hornet. The thing that stood out was value for money in a capable package. I have been riding for 45yrs now and the concept of motorcycling has completely changed during this time. It seems this once affordable fun transport option is now pricing itself out of reach for many folk. What a shame, and when we need bikes on the road more than ever too.

  6. Great bike but I agree with comments about the price. In the 1970s BMW ran newspaper ads here in Australia acknowledging the unbelievably high price for the then new R100RS ($AUD 5000+ in 1976), saying to would-be buyers that the first year paying it off would be a struggle, but this would get easier as the years went by! Not much has changed in 48 years …

  7. If the GS 1300 didn’t have so many teething problems it migh be a reasonable over priced option, unfortunately most buyers buy a bike to ride, and not end up taking the bike back to dealerships that aren’t yet able to resolve the many issues.

  8. The GS would be a daunting prospect for average mc enthusiasts. Over size, over weight, over priced, over powered !!!.
    I’ve been riding BMW for over 50 years, my fave being an R80ST from 1983.

  9. Agree, omission of the new Moto guzzi line up was big mistake. Just test rode the new refined Stevelo, at Barber this year, WOW is my description, much much better than when it was introduced some years back, no more vibration transmitted to the bars, I mean Zero. Definitely a worthy contender for top adventure/sport tour. Less wt, lower seat ht ( actually sit in bike) , excellent stand to seat position, updated electronics. Little more than half price of GS – great bonus and a slam dunk as far as I am concerned. Budgeting to ad to my stable of ponies.

  10. As a avid and long time cycle rider, I see where this is going. HAIL the electric bike… 😂. NOT 4 me bro. I love nostalgic bikes and it’s not that I dislike new models and new concepts…but these are all based on crotch rocket design. I guess some people like a small race car and some love the 72 Cadillac eldorado. It didn’t help that Harley went WOKE this year. We just need to wait till they replace the HD CEO I guess. Give me a Bobber if I have to choose from this sad list.

  11. Every bike on the list is as ugly as the afterbirth of a crippled buzzard. Sort of like an ugly girl. She may be fun, but you don’t want to be seen with her in public.

  12. Great comments. I am impressed by how many intelligent comments by older experienced riders. So many years riding! But the adventure bikes are selling to the newer riders. Younger with more disposable income. Whatever it takes to bring new riders into the fold. They are the SUV’s of motorcycles.

  13. I am an old man…72… and the line up of adventure bikes are, well, just not really made for a lot of riders my age. Yes, some still ride them, and I am just one rider, but, I just wanted to voice my opinion. I will admit that I am a Triumph fanatic, freak. But I still believe that we all should ride what we love, and I respect other riders opinion, and likes. Run what ya brung. Y’all ride safe.

    • I, even older. Just turned 75 and I love my guzzi v7. fun easy to ride and very capable on the highway. Run what ya bring and keep riding!

  14. I’m not angry at the choice of the GS. All of the negative comments about it are valid, but it only takes a look at sales figures over the last 10 years to see what the public is clamoring for. They want a big ADV that they can hang big boxes, bags, and lights on, and then tour comfortably on the highways and byways while they commute to their rider improvement courses. BMW recognized this, and made a very fine version of the annual best seller. But the question I have is why they wanted to separate it from the past models. They quite literally had the King of the hottest category for a decade plus. Why separate from that?! If they had made the improvements that they did, but kept the character of the GS intact, I would already have one in my garage. I just can’t bring myself to buy a bike with the new Twitter logo all aglow between its fender and windscreen.

    And didn’t the Duc Desert Fox deserve a place on that list?

  15. I agree that the GS is bike of the year. I’ve had a number of GSs and all of them were supremely fun, and capable. You can do all day highway miles and then go off-road and have tremendous fun. They are surprisingly capable off-road. The new one is another step forward. But yes, they are expensive.

  16. You’ll be very popular at your favorite Starbucks where you’ll find plenty of other “Adventure” bikes. You can discuss tires and see which ones are best suited for the highway.

  17. Best unknown bike is the moto guzzi v85 tt. Just like the beemers from the eighties but better, air cooled, drive shaft, comfortable, who new 80 horses could be this much fun. Mine is the new vvt model. Slower than my multistrada pp but there’s something about a guzzi they say, I can confirm that, just a peach of a bike.

  18. Why is it cost of maintenance of motorcycles is ever mentioned? I would never pay 30k for bike. With inflation and gas prices so high
    Only the wealthy can afford a bike so expensive. Did I mention most of the bikes on the list are but ugly?

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