[2021 Latest] Top 12 Recommended Large Motorcycles! A Comprehensive Guide from How to Choose to Pros and Cons

【2021最新】おすすめ大型バイク12選！選び方からメリット・デメリットまで徹底解説

What's the difference between large and medium motorcycles?

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/80-1453863/

Motorcycles are categorized as large or medium, and the difference lies in their engine displacement.

Motorcycles with engine displacements of 250cc or 400cc, which can be ridden with a standard motorcycle license, are called medium motorcycles. Motorcycles with displacements exceeding 400cc are called large motorcycles, and a large motorcycle license is required to ride them.

As of 2021, this license is called a standard motorcycle license, but it was previously known as a medium motorcycle license.

According to the license categories, motorcycles with displacements that can be ridden with a medium motorcycle license are called medium motorcycles, and those requiring a large motorcycle license are called large motorcycles.

Additionally, motorcycles with engine displacements smaller than 250cc, specifically up to 125cc, require a small motorcycle license, so they are classified as small motorcycles.

By license category, motorcycles are divided into small (up to 125cc), medium (up to 400cc), and large (unlimited displacement).

Large motorcycles require a large motorcycle license

To ride a large motorcycle, a large motorcycle license is required.

Previously, to ride large motorcycles exceeding 400cc, it was necessary to obtain a "restriction release" that lifted the engine displacement condition on the license.

The restriction release was a low-pass-rate examination that could only be obtained by passing a practical test (single-shot exam) on a designated course at a license center.

With the amendment of the law in 1995, it became possible to obtain the license by taking training at a driving school in addition to the single-shot exam at the license center, making it easier to acquire the license than before.

What is the engine displacement of a large motorcycle?

The engine displacement of large motorcycles exceeds 400cc, with no upper limit.

Harley and BMW, for example, offer models with displacements exceeding 1,800cc, and even Japanese-made Honda Gold Wing has a displacement of 1,833cc.

The "ROCKET 3 R" from British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph boasts an engine displacement of 2,500cc, larger than the engine of an average passenger car.

For domestic manufacturers, the main displacement range for large motorcycles is under 1,000cc, with a strong lineup in the 600cc to 900cc range.

Large motorcycles have power, making highway riding easier

Large motorcycles have ample power, allowing for relaxed riding on highways.

They accelerate easily without needing much throttle, making overtaking a breeze.

Super sports (SS) models, in particular, can accelerate violently even with minimal throttle, so it's essential to be careful not to speed.

6 Tips for Choosing a Large Motorcycle

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/8a-500910/

Large motorcycles are an area where every motorcycle manufacturer puts their greatest effort, offering a wide array of attractive models.

Therefore, when it comes time to choose a large motorcycle, many people might find themselves overwhelmed by the numerous options.

In this section, we will introduce key points to help you choose the large motorcycle that is right for you.

Key points for choosing a large motorcycle:

Choose based on ease of riding
Choose based on intended use
Choose based on intended use
Choose based on manufacturer
Choose based on cost-performance
Choose based on design

It's easier to make a decision by considering these points.

Let's look at each point in order.

Choose based on ease of riding

If you're looking for ease of riding, such as comfort over long distances or extended periods, and agile handling, naked and American-style motorcycles are recommended.

Naked bikes offer a natural riding position, which reduces fatigue during long rides, but since they lack a fairing (windscreen), you'll be exposed to significant wind on highways.

American bikes have a low seat height and a low center of gravity, making them excellent for straight-line stability. However, the low footpeg position means they are less suited for winding roads.

For a good balance and ease of riding, a naked bike would be a good choice.

Choose based on intended use

Before choosing your motorcycle, it's a good idea to first define your purpose for riding a large motorcycle.

For example, "I want to do sports riding on a circuit," "I want to go on leisurely long tours," or "I want to ride both on-road and off-road" – the type of motorcycle you choose will vary depending on your objective.

Clearly defining your purpose for riding a large motorcycle will naturally help you decide on the genre.

Choose by model

Similar to clarifying your purpose for riding a large motorcycle, choosing by model is also a key point.

People have various criteria for choosing a model, such as familiar models or popular models, but it's a good approach to choose by model.

If you have friends who ride motorcycles with you, your riding goals are likely similar.

In such cases, it's a good idea to ask your riding companions for recommended models and use their suggestions as reference.

Choose by manufacturer

Choosing a motorcycle from a manufacturer you like or are interested in is also one way to select a bike.

Many experienced riders or returning riders choose bikes from manufacturers they've previously owned.

If there's a manufacturer you're interested in, it's a good idea to visit a dealership and see the bikes in person.

Choose based on cost-performance

You might also decide on a large motorcycle based on cost-performance and budget.

By calculating how much you can spend on a bike, you'll determine whether to buy new or used within that budget.

If you look for used bikes, you might even find a higher-end large motorcycle within the price range of a new one.

Choose based on design

A significant number of people choose motorcycles, not just large ones, based on a design they like.

It's a good idea to look at various large motorcycles and choose one with a design you like or one that made a strong impression on you.

What matters most is riding a bike you love, so it's crucial to choose a bike that you find enjoyable to ride, including its design.

Riding a motorcycle whose appearance you like will boost your spirits while riding.

What types of large motorcycles are there?

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/bc-4840599/

Here, we introduce the types of large motorcycles.

Each type has its own characteristics, and the type you choose will largely depend on your purpose for riding a large motorcycle.

Racer Replica / Super Sports

Racer replicas / Super Sports (SS) are a genre specialized for performance, offering comfort on winding roads and the best lap times on circuits.

They are covered with fairings from the front to the sides, which streamlines airflow for stable riding at high speeds.

Many models in this genre are high-powered, with manufacturers investing their top-tier technology into them.

American

American motorcycles were originally created for long-distance riding across the vast American landscape.

With low seat heights and lowered centers of gravity, this genre offers a sense of gravitas and stability.

There are various types of American motorcycles, including cruisers, which are suitable for leisurely long rides; dragsters, designed for drag racing; and classics, which evoke a retro look reminiscent of the 1960s.

Naked

Naked bikes are motorcycles without fairings, leaving the engine exposed.

With bar-type handlebars and a natural riding posture, they cause less fatigue during long rides.

However, most models do not have a windscreen, making riders more susceptible to wind while riding.

Off-road

Off-road bikes are designed for riding on rough terrain such as muddy or gravel roads.

They feature spoke wheels, which provide superior shock absorption on uneven surfaces common in off-road riding.

To clear obstacles like rocks, the ground clearance is set high, which also results in a high seat height.

Adventure (Dual-purpose)

Adventure (dual-purpose) motorcycles are a genre based on off-road bikes, incorporating elements of tourers to also be capable of long-distance on-road riding.

Adventure bikes are even used as base vehicles for the Paris-Dakar Rally, making them a highly capable genre for traveling anywhere regardless of the road surface.

Adventure motorcycles may also be called multi-purpose, Alp-loaders, or big-offs, but they generally refer to bikes that combine off-road and touring styles, so their essence remains largely the same even with different names.

Scooter type

Scooter-type motorcycles are valued for their ease of use, as they don't require gear shifting and can be ridden simply by twisting the throttle.

Since clutch operation is not necessary, riding a motorcycle becomes more accessible.

Generally, "scooter" often refers to 50cc class vehicles, and scooters in the mid-size class and above are often called "big scooters."

Advantages of riding a large motorcycle

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/89-1827482/

Next, let's explore the advantages of riding a large motorcycle.

If you're considering purchasing a large motorcycle, please use this as a reference.

Relaxed riding with overwhelming power

Large motorcycles have ample engine power, allowing for a relaxed riding experience.

Especially on highways, overtaking is easy, providing a stress-free ride.

With plenty of torque, they offer effortless performance even without aggressively opening the throttle.

The relaxed ride born from overwhelming power is unique to large motorcycles.

Large body for stable and easy riding

Large motorcycles have a big frame, allowing for a comfortable ride.

With their significant weight, they offer highly stable performance, making long-distance touring effortless. Many models are easy to ride due to the stability provided by their large body.

Appearance that satisfies the desire for ownership

Large motorcycles have an imposing presence, with an appearance that fulfills the desire for ownership.

Many models are equipped with advanced features such as electronic control systems and riding modes to make high power more manageable.

The handlebars often feature numerous switches to control these electronic systems, and the meters can be distinctive, with many models offering an exciting experience even before you start riding.

Abundant availability in the used market

Large motorcycles are a class that manufacturers are currently most focused on selling, and there is a wide variety of models available.

Due to high sales volumes, there's also a large number of used motorcycles.

Because of this, the range of choices in the used market is extensive, making it easier to find desired models compared to other classes.

Disadvantages of riding a large motorcycle

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/b7-5571340/

We've discussed the advantages of large motorcycles, but what are their disadvantages?

Here, we'll outline the downsides of riding a large motorcycle.

High maintenance costs

A drawback of large motorcycles is the higher maintenance costs compared to medium-sized ones.

Not only do they require vehicle inspections, but their fuel efficiency is also worse than medium motorcycles, leading to higher running costs.

Additionally, most large motorcycle models are more expensive than medium motorcycles, so the initial purchase cost will also be higher.

Large body can lack stability when not moving

Large motorcycles, due to their weight, offer high stability once in motion, but this same weight can be a disadvantage when stopped.

When stopped at a traffic light or starting, even a slight lean can cause the motorcycle to tip over due to its weight, making it impossible to support.

The lack of stability when not in motion, caused by the weight and size of the motorcycle, is also a disadvantage of large motorcycles.

Difficult to handle due to high displacement

Large motorcycles have high engine displacement, so even a slight twist of the throttle can result in acceleration incomparable to medium motorcycles.

Therefore, they are not as easy to handle as medium motorcycles.

Due to their large body and heavy weight, they are also harder to maneuver when not in motion, such as when moving them in and out of a parking space.

12 Recommended Large Motorcycles

We'll introduce recommended large motorcycles by genre (type).

The genres we'll cover are:

Racer Replica / Super Sports
American
Adventure
Scooter type

We will introduce three models from each of these four categories, so if you are considering purchasing a large motorcycle, please use this as a reference.

1. [Racer Replica / Super Sports] Honda CBR1000RR-R

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CBR1000RRR/type/

The Honda CBR1000RR-R debuted in 2020 as a new model with an additional "R" when the CBR1000RR underwent a full model change.

Its liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder engine produces a maximum output of 218ps, and with a vehicle weight of 201kg, it's a monster bike with a power-to-weight ratio of less than 1.

In addition to the standard model, there's also the SP version, which comes with upgraded parts such as Brembo brake calipers and Öhlins electronically controlled suspension (front and rear).

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder
Maximum output: 218ps
Maximum torque: 113N・m
Vehicle weight: 201kg
New car price: 2,783,000 yen

2. [Racer Replica / Super Sports] Yamaha YZF-R1

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/yzf-r1/color.html

Yamaha's YZF-R1 first went on sale overseas in 1998, and was imported to Japan as a grey import.

While occasionally offered as a domestic model, it largely continued to be sold as an imported vehicle. However, from the 2020 model year, it was officially added to Yamaha's lineup as a domestically sold model.

Since the 2015 model, the focus has been on circuit performance, with the liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder engine producing 200ps of high output and a sharp, refined design reminiscent of MotoGP.

Especially from the 2020 model, thorough revisions were made to the chassis and engine, resulting in a more refined finish with a design closer to the MotoGP YZR-M1.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder
Maximum output: 200ps
Maximum torque: 113N・m
Vehicle weight: 201kg
New car sales price: 2,365,000 yen

3. [Racer Replica / Super Sports] BMW S1000RR

Source: https://www.bmw-motorrad-sor.jp/model/s_1000_rr_2019.php

BMW's S1000RR enjoys overwhelming popularity worldwide as BMW's super sport (racer) motorcycle.

Sales began in 2010, and after repeated minor and major model changes, the fifth generation was introduced in 2019.

The liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder engine mounted on the 200kg body produces a maximum output of 207ps, and with a claimed top speed of 305km/h, it boasts overwhelming performance.

There's also a higher-end M Package grade (additional 407,000 yen), which includes carbon wheels and other features that reduce weight by nearly 4kg.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder
Maximum output: 207ps
Maximum torque: 113N・m
Vehicle weight: 200kg
New car sales price: 2,310,000 yen~

4. [American] Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/5/3_1/

The Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883 is an American motorcycle with a displacement of 883cc, which is considered a smaller displacement for a Harley.

It is primarily designed for solo riding, but can be changed to accommodate two riders by registering it.

With a comfortable riding position and ample cargo capacity, it's a great choice for long touring trips that include camping.

It's also easy to maintain, making it a Harley that will grow on those who enjoy doing minor maintenance themselves.

Engine type: Air-cooled V-twin
Maximum output: -
Maximum torque: 67N・m
Vehicle weight: 260kg
Used market price: Around 600,000 - 1,250,000 yen

5. [American] Yamaha BOLT R Spec ABS

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/bolt/spec.html

Yamaha's "BOLT R Spec ABS" went on sale in 2013.

It is a cruiser-style American motorcycle, designed more for short-distance riding than long tours, offering comfort for easy city riding.

The air-cooled V-twin engine is rigidly mounted to the frame, providing a pleasant vibration and a sharp, low-pitched sound that will inspire a desire to ride.

Originally, the R Spec was a higher-grade version of the standard model, equipped with a buckskin-style seat and dedicated rear suspension, but from 2020, only the R Spec ABS is available.

Engine type: Air-cooled V-twin
Maximum output: 54ps
Maximum torque: 80N・m
Vehicle weight: 252kg
New car sales price: 1,045,000 yen

6. [American] Triumph BONNEVILLE BOBBER

Source: https://www.triumphmotorcycles.jp/bikes/classic/bonneville-bobber-2021

Triumph's BONNEVILLE BOBBER (Bonneville Bobber) is an American motorcycle sold by the British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph since 2017.

The short single seat is characteristic of a bobber, giving it a simple exterior with only the essential equipment.

While initial models featured different wheel sizes with a 19-inch front and 16-inch rear, the 2021 model saw both front and rear become 16-inch, along with other specification changes such as an increased fuel tank capacity and LED indicators.

Engine type: Inline 2-cylinder
Maximum output: 78ps
Maximum torque: 106N・m
Vehicle weight: 252kg
New car sales price: 1,790,000 yen~

7. [Adventure] BMW R 1250 GS Adventure

Source: https://www.bmw-motorrad-sor.jp/model/r_1250_gsa.php

BMW's R1250 GS Adventure is an adventure model capable of both off-road and on-road riding.

It was introduced in 2019 as the successor to the company's R1200 GS Adventure.

Equipped with BMW's traditional horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engine, it carries on the legacy of the GS, which is considered the progenitor of adventure motorcycles, dating back to the 1980s.

Engine type: Air/liquid-cooled horizontally opposed 2-cylinder
Maximum output: 136p
Maximum torque: 143N・m
Vehicle weight: 278kg
New car sales price: 2,319,000 yen~

8. [Adventure] Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CRF1100L/type/

Honda's CRF1100L Africa Twin was released in 2020 as a model change with an increased engine displacement from the CRF1000L.

Compared to the previous model, the upper cowl is smaller, and the addition of cornering lights makes it a more practical model.

The liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder engine produces a maximum output of 102ps and a maximum torque of 105N・m, resulting in a torquey characteristic.

The base model has a 6-speed transmission, but a 6-speed DCT (Electronically Controlled Dual Clutch) that doesn't require clutch operation is also available, making it a model that can be ridden with an AT-limited large motorcycle license.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder
Maximum output: 102ps
Maximum torque: 105N・m
Vehicle weight: 238kg
New car sales price: 1,617,000 yen

9. [Adventure] KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE R

Source: https://www.ktm.com/ja-jp/models/travel/ktm-1290-super-adventurer2021.html

KTM's "1290 SUPER ADVENTURE R" is an adventure motorcycle sold by Austrian-based KTM since 2016.

The 1,301cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine produces a maximum output of 160ps and a maximum torque of 138N・m, making it a powerful and torquey engine.

The 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE also comes in an S version, but while the S is more all-rounder, the R is the more off-road oriented model.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled V-twin
Maximum output: 160ps
Maximum torque: 138N・m
Vehicle weight: 228kg
New car sales price: 2,590,000 yen

10. [Scooter type] Honda X-ADV

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/X-ADV/type/

Honda's X-ADV is a scooter-type model capable of off-road riding, introduced in 2017.

With its unprecedented exterior combining a scooter and an adventure bike, and its capability for off-road riding, it broke the notion that scooters are only for on-road use.

From the 2018 model, a torque control system was added to further stabilize off-road riding, making it even more enjoyable for off-road adventures.

The installed transmission is DCT, making it a model that can be ridden with an AT-limited large motorcycle license.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder
Maximum output: 58ps
Maximum torque: 69N・m
Vehicle weight: 236kg
New car sales price: 1,320,000 yen

11. [Scooter type] Yamaha TMAX560

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/tmax/color.html

Yamaha's TMAX560 is a model that carries on the legacy of the TMAX series, which began sales in 2001.

The initial model was released as the TMAX500 (499cc), followed by the TMAX530 (530cc) in 2013, and then the TMAX560 (561cc) as the 2020 model.

The 2020 model comes in two types: TMAX560 ABS and TMAX560 TECH MAX ABS. The TECH MAX ABS is the higher-end version equipped with features such as an electrically adjustable screen, cruise control system, grip warmers, and heated main seat.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder
Maximum output: 48ps
Maximum torque: 56N・m
Vehicle weight: 218kg
New car sales price: 1,276,000 yen

12. [Scooter type] BMW C650 Sport

Source: https://www.bmw-motorrad-sor.jp/model/c_650_sport.php

BMW's "C650 Sport" is a maxi-scooter equipped with a 647cc liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder engine.

ABS and Traction Control (ASC) are standard equipment, allowing for more comfortable and safe riding.

It's a model packed with convenient features such as a variable-capacity luggage space that can hold two full-face helmets, a three-stage adjustable screen, grip heaters, and heated seats.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder
Maximum output: 60ps
Maximum torque: N・m
Vehicle weight: 249kg
Used market price: 1,288,000 yen