A Look Back at Sport Touring in 2024

2024 has proven to be an exciting year for sport touring enthusiasts who prioritize performance above all else, especially on those long-distance rides. The sport touring segment continues to push the boundaries of speed, agility, and rider-focused innovation, blending high-performance engineering with technology that makes covering hundreds of miles a thrill. This year’s highlights—from cutting-edge motorcycles to breakthrough gear and game-changing tech—showcase why sport touring remains one of the most dynamic categories in motorcycling.

In this annual roundup, we’ll explore the standout motorcycles unveiled at events like EICMA and AIMExpo, along with the essential gear, technology, and travel routes that made waves in 2024.

Standout Sport Touring Motorcycles of 2024

Manufacturers have doubled down on performance this year, enhancing powertrains, improving handling, and integrating rider-focused tech. Here are the top models that made an impact:

• Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+: Suzuki continues its evolution of the GSX-S1000GT+ with incremental improvements targeting mid-level sport touring riders. The 998cc inline-four engine remains the heart of the bike, delivering thrilling power with smooth, usable torque. Updates include a refined quick-shifter, lightweight design and improved ergonomics, and a large TFT display that enhances ride data visibility.
• Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE: Kawasaki dominates the sport touring performance space with the supercharged H2 SX SE. This year’s updates focus on advanced safety and tech, including improved radar-assisted adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection. The 998cc supercharged engine remains its showstopper, delivering blistering acceleration without sacrificing stability on long straights.
• BMW S 1000 XR: The BMW S 1000 XR combines the power of a sportbike with the versatility of a touring machine, making it a top contender for performance-focused riders. Powered by a 999cc inline-four engine, the S 1000 XR delivers exhilarating performance with 170 horsepower, smooth torque delivery, and advanced electronics. Updates for 2024 include refined suspension settings for improved comfort and handling, as well as a full-color TFT display with integrated navigation. The S 1000 XR strikes a perfect balance between thrilling speed and long-distance capability, appealing to riders who want agility without sacrificing practicality.

Key Takeaway: Manufacturers continue raising the bar on sport touring performance with bikes like the BMW S 1000 XR and Kawasaki H2 SX SE, emphasizing power, advanced tech, and rider-focused features. Sport touring riders who seek speed without compromise had more options than ever in 2024.  Browse through the collection of sport touring bikes we reviewed this year.

Game-Changing Gear for 2024

When riding fast and far, gear plays a critical role in keeping riders sharp and confident. This year’s standout products combine innovation with practicality:

• Shoei Neotec 3 Helmet: Shoei’s flagship modular helmet has received updates to aerodynamics and noise reduction, making it ideal for high-speed touring. The improved ventilation and lightweight shell enhance long-ride performance without fatiguing the rider.
• Dainese Stelvio D-Dry Touring Suit: Dainese blends performance and protection with its new touring suit. The suit uses stretchable waterproof fabric for full-body weatherproofing while maintaining an athletic, aerodynamic fit.

Key Takeaway: Innovations in helmets and riding suits like the Shoei Neotec 3 and Dainese Stelvio D-Dry prioritize aerodynamics, weather protection, and rider comfort, ensuring performance-focused riders stay sharp on long, demanding rides.  Browse more useful gear for sport touring.

Breakthrough Technology for Touring Riders

The tech landscape for sport touring has advanced considerably this year, with a focus on tools that improve performance and safety:

• Radar-Based Rider Aids: Kawasaki and BMW lead the charge with radar-based adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. These systems allow riders to maintain focus on speed and handling while the bike handles situational awareness.
• Garmin Zumo XT2 GPS: The Zumo XT2 continues to shine as the ultimate touring GPS, with its bright 6-inch screen and improved mobile app based route customization options. It’s built for spirited rides, providing clear visuals and robust durability in any conditions.

Key Takeaway: Radar-based rider aids and advanced touring GPS systems offer performance riders added safety and navigation tools, enhancing both speed-focused riding and situational awareness on long journeys.

Highlights from EICMA and AIMExpo 2024

This year’s major motorcycle events showcased a renewed emphasis on sport-focused sport touring motorcycles and technology upgrades.  These industry-defining events not only unveiled groundbreaking motorcycles and gear but also underscored the trends shaping the sport touring segment in 2024, from advanced rider tech to weight-saving innovations.

• Electric Touring Advances: While full adoption is still a ways off, electric sport touring prototypes appeared at both EICMA and AIMExpo, hinting at a future where performance and sustainability meet. Look out for brands like Zero Motorcycles and concepts from major OEMs.
• Lighter, Faster Innovations: Brands across the board focused on weight reduction and aerodynamics. Bikes like the BMW M 1000 XR exemplify how manufacturers are leaning into high-speed performance without compromise.

Key Takeaway: EICMA and AIMExpo 2024 reaffirmed that sport touring is evolving toward versatile lighter and faster machines, with electric innovations showing signs that a promising option for performance-oriented long-distance riders is on the horizon.

Top Travel Routes and Destinations of 2024

For riders who want to push their sport touring machines to the limit, these routes offer the perfect mix of challenging roads and stunning scenery:

• US Route 395 (in Oregon): This road continues to attract performance-focused riders looking for wide-open stretches and sweeping curves. The remote beauty of Oregon’s high desert makes it a rewarding ride for those seeking solitude and speed.
• Texas Hill Country: Not everyone looks to Texas for world-class motorcycle roads, but Texas Hill Country defies expectations with miles of winding farm and ranch roads cutting through stunning landscapes. Find thrilling twists and turns with an immersive cultural experience rooted in German, Spanish, and Eastern European heritage. Hill Country proves Texas is a premier destination for sport touring riders.

Key Takeaway: The abundance of roads in the United States and around the world are sure to attract more motorcyclists to the sport touring segment. Routes like US Route 395 and roads in Texas Hill Country deliver the perfect mix of high-speed straights, technical curves, and scenic beauty, making them must-rides for performance-minded sport touring enthusiasts.  Browse through our collection of Destinations and ride-tested Tour Plans.

Bring on 2025: The Best is Around the Bend

In 2024, the sport touring world continues to deliver for riders who prioritize performance above all else. From powerful new motorcycles like the BMW M 1000 XR and Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE, to innovative gear and radar-assisted tech, this year’s advancements prove that long-distance riding doesn’t have to compromise speed, agility, or excitement. Manufacturers are pushing boundaries in performance, lightweight design, and advanced technology, giving riders more options than ever before.

As we look toward 2025, the future of sport touring promises even greater leaps forward. Expect further innovation in rider-assist systems, lightweight materials, and the growing presence of electric sport touring models.  With 2025 on the horizon, sport touring enthusiasts have much to anticipate, from revolutionary designs to roads yet to conquer.  The road ahead is filled with excitement, evolution, and endless opportunities to tour fast and far.