Best Commuter Motorcycles...one you may have never heard of.

[@MCrider]

Motorcycles featured in this video: FUELL Fllow: www.mcrider.com/fuell Honda NC750X: www.mcrider.com/NC750X Kawasaki Vulcan S: www.mcrider.com/vulcan

[@eddcurry1245]

Perhaps you dare to offer your KZbin channel opinion as to whether Can Am riders are motorcyclists or not? Is such a product a motorcycle or not?

[@melindazikursh8825]

I love commuting on my 2023 NC750x

[@ronspencer3250]

I commented on a Suzuki Bergman 400 for ten years. It was perfect. When I arrived at work I would open the trunk, pull out my briefcase, toss in my helmet, jacket and gloves, an walk into the office like a normal person. If I happened to get caught in the rain the leg shields and windscreen prevented me from getting soaked.

[@billlyl3725]

I love my NC750X! More than sufficient power and excitement for me!

[@ChadWinters]

I don't understand why its a common youtube complaint that they are boring. I'm not gonna take it racing, but seems fine otherwise

[@billlyl3725]

@@ChadWinters completely agree!

[@Sammie110]

Hi Kevin. Just a quick comment to say Thank you! I appreciate your thoughtful and common sense approach to the topics you cover. Your experience and knowledge combined with humility and a relaxed style make your channel one of the best educational sources available to the motorcycle community. Keep up the good work!

[@janettcotton4161]

Suzuki Burgman 400 gets it done - highly recommended - just twist and go with lots of storage

[@BWGPEI]

A lot younger then - brings back a memory. Left work one day on an XL-500 Honda. Nice dry day with bare pavement. Stopped for about an hour for an appointment, and came out to two inches of snow down. Stayed on the city streets and followed a Gold Wing on home, learning to not freak whilst sliding a bit on the corners. Didn't drop the bike, but that only because of much younger reflexes. Would I want to try that at 70+ - not bloody likely, grin.

[@Whiskers74]

My daily commute, rain, hail, or shine for the last (almost) 2 years has been my '99 Suzuki Intruder 1500. I love my big cruiser so much that when funds allow, I'm updating to an 06-08 Boulevard C-109R (essentially a bigger engine in an updated version of my Intruder) simply for something a bit newer, fuel injected instead of carby, and with a bigger tank for some interstate rides (about 1.5 gallons bigger). Keep up the great videos, cause I always look forward to the next one.

[@johnfoster395]

Very much agree, I have a NC700XD. Ridden mine for 3yrs now and its just an all round easy bike to ride. Average over 60mpg and over 200 range. Like you stated, not a speed demon. But more than capable to tour gravel and old logging roads with the appropriate tires. The DCT automatic and Abs makes the overall experience, especially for a new riders just easy. While capable of higher speeds it cruises at 80 easily. The 700 parallel twin engine performs more like a car engine than a traditional motorcycle engine. Redline is just over 6K with the torque at lower RPM. The storage compartment is great as well. My XL helmet, gloves and a light riding jacket fits comfortable in there.

[@loosingparts6159]

Been commuting for years on my trusty Triumph Bonneville. It has never let me down. Easy to get around traffic, plenty of juice and just plain fun. People aren’t used to seeing those so I get a ton of looks.

[@jamesmcnulty3035]

Suzuki sv650 has great handling plenty of torque and top ends for City and road. Granted tank, seat, or saddlebags are an additional inexpensive storage if needed, or necessary. The low price tag also makes this an excellent consideration.

[@John_Ridley]

OK glad you led (in the gas powered range) with the NC750X. It pretty much defines a commuter bike that can also be a good all-rounder.

[@judeschexnyder8008]

Kevin, Great overview of preferred commuter bike attributes. I would love to see more motorcyclists commute to work on their bikes in the US. It's a great way to develop your skills and street strategies, while getting motorists more accustomed to seeing motorcycles.

[@snorman1911]

That's pretty much all I do, just riding around for no reason seems pointless to me. Being stuck in stop and go traffic sure helps develop low speed skills 😂

[@bryanbrowning5746]

I know that most of your viewers probably live in urban/city environments, so a midsize bike is probably the bare minimum needed to keep up with most traffic, and have a little power in reserve. I live in rural Montana, so my needs are different for an easy to ride and economical machine, so I bought a 2023 XR150L. I ride all country roads into town, and the highest speed limit is 45 mph in town, so that little bike fits the bill perfectly for me. It also allows a bit of backroad exploring, and I can put it on the back of my RV making a good camp bike. I have soft luggage for it, so I can throw that on, if need be. It’ll never take the place of my kitted out KLR650 or my VStrom, but after 48 years of riding a lot of different machines, the little XR still puts a smile on my face!😁

[@djb523]

Thank you Kevin, for all your videos. I recently started riding again after a 19 year break. After a few considerations, I opted for a 2023 Vulcan S. This is my first cruiser so it took a little while to get used to the forward foot controls. I also had to get used to chain maintenance as my other bikes were both shaft driven. As I come up on the 1 year anniversary of my return to riding, the one thing that stands out to me is making yourself more visible on the road. Bright colored riding gear, and a light added to my helmet, that uses an accelerometer to activate during engine braking, helps to keep me more visible during my commute. I also added a moto horn instead of the factory tooter. Also, I've been practicing my evasive maneuvers, like emergency braking and swerving. All I can say is, educate yourself as much as possible, practice what you learn, and any bike can be a good commuter.

[@hcderksen]

The last 25 years I've been riding more touring bikes like the '83 Gold wing '83 Yamaha venture, '97 Gold wing, '06 Gold wing. But now with my wife no longer wanting to ride and me in my late 70's, I have gone to an older, what I can afford, '87 Kawasaki concours. It's a great commuter, and fun to ride in the twisties. It's light enough for me, so far, and relatively easy to fix. That works for me. Thanks Kevin for your advice. Whenever I'm talking to other bikers I encourage them to check out your site. God bless you.

[@alozborne]

2019+ Honda CB500X is just about a perfect commuter and it even lets you have some fun off pavement too.

[@bigtreecombatacademy2927]

Yeah it’s my next bike for commuting

[@mr1bienvenu1]

Any of the CB500 line are good commuter bikes. I've been commuting on a CB500F for 10 years now. 😊

[@IndigoJo]

The model had been around for a few years before 2019 and the earlier models, I'm told, don't have the water pump problem that affects the later ones. (I found this out when I asked someone who was singing the praises of his 2013 model how many water pumps he'd got through; it was on its first.)

[@alozborne]

@@IndigoJo FWIW, I haven't experienced any water pump failure with my 2022 after 30,000+ kms on the odometer.

[@shardlake]

Some great commuters on your list, I did 14 years on my Honda NTV650 - Shaft Drive and popular with dispatch riders so they made rear pods for carrying tons, not made any longer, was tough as old boots if a bit utilitarian. The Fuell looks very interesting.

[@donaldmarcella1329]

Kevin you overlooked the V Strom

[@SuperOrcy]

I commute on a Z400. filters at lights easily, holds up at highway speeds. light and nimble. I put a ventura rack on the back with a soft bag on it, and it takes me everyhere i wanna go.

[@JackTRyan]

Scooters. A 500cc Yamaha or similar is ideal for commuting. That's why you see these everywhere in Europe. Fast off the line, very nimble and relatively inexpensive. I know it's a tough sell here in the USA but there's a reason they're so ubiquitous worldwide.

[@postal_the_clown]

I had an '04 Silver Wing for 10 years and it was hard to beat. The trouble was that they cost about 30% more than an equivalent standard bike for the Tupperware body. There were never more than 4 in town at any time. That never inspired the dealer to keep many parts in stock.

[@derek17005]

Had a Burgman 650 which is the Cadillac of scooters. Tons of power that would make a Sportster blush, excellent protection from the elements, huge storage under the seat, and it would run interstate speeds no problem. It was heavy though and came in at 650lbs! The only complaint I had was it was somewhat boring.

[@trekkintexan5160]

I love my Honda NC700X for commuting. It has panniers and a top box. So running errands are easy. The low center of gravity makes it great for stop and go traffic. The adv tires let me ride the gravel when necessary. I live in the country, north of houston and commute into the city daily.

[@wflentge]

Commuted on my Goldwings ('79, '97, '10, '19) for many years (20+) both in TX and in Phx metro. Rarely took 4 wheels unless weather was really terrible. Commutes from 5 to 30 miles one way. I'm 70 yrs old now, so will stick to the gas bikes. Don't think you or anyone else will sell me for electric M/Cs. I caution anyone riding in commuter traffic on a daily commute that you choose/ride a bike big enough to accelerate out of the many dangers zones enroute AND large enough that it is visible to the other commuters. Cost and savings should not be the priority. If you are placing your choice for a commuter bike on cost/maintenance alone, you may very well loose in the end.

[@complexdevice]

Bought an NC700X as my first bike. No complaints so far.

[@teddyortega6577]

Any complaints yet 👀 genuinely want to know Is the maintenance expensive I’m from LA😅

[@Ron-FabandBuild]

Thanks Tim for another informative video. While I have ridden many motorcycles in my life. And many different makes and models. I agree that there are definitely different needs for all of us. I currently and have been riding my 2015 HD Ultra Limited. My first 9 months of ownership of having this bike I put on 10, 000 miles as my commuter bike. Everyone that I spoke with told me once I went with this bike I would never ride anything else. While I do enjoy riding other and different bikes, when it comes to my hands down choice, for me. It is the exact bike I now own. I love my Ultra and would not part with it for any reason unless it was necessary. I too have ridden in all kinds of weather and situations. That is why I prepared my self with he necessary gear to ride in all these scenarios. I feel that knowing you are prepared for what may come on a ride, I can enjoy the ride more knowing that I have the get to get me there and back. Hey maybe that can be another video for you on her, unless you have already done that one. Thanks again for the video. Ride safe everyone and always keep an eye out for others.

[@CaptainAstrum]

I've got a Yamaha Xmax 300 and it is a fantastic commuter! 70+ mpg, top speed of ~90mph, and with a top case and tunnel bag, I have almost 100 liters of storage on the bike. I absolutely love this thing

[@RobotLegJim]

My daily driver is a bit different than this list, but is the most fun of anything else on the road (IMHO). My driving is on everything BUT highways. I’m rural, so back & forth to work is along country roads, with lots of places that most riders WISH they could go on the weekends. Mine is a Ural Gear Up, and has more storage space than any 3 motorcycles out there, combined. On the weekends, it’s 2WD fun on the trails, and it will deliver you & gear to the most remote camping spots around. You’ll never be bothered by your camping neighbor’s sub woofers again, and that’s beautiful! The other plus is that “chicks really dig it.” 😎

[@kevinkinnison7830]

I commute on a Honda CB500X and at times put 120 miles a day on it. It is a good bike for my needs.

[@franselinger9150]

Thanks for that. A reaffirmation of my choice of motorcycle. I have a 2012 NC700X and I absolutely love it. Good for commuting and weekend trips on the back country roads.

[@DaisyDuck9]

I've just started commuting on my Kawasaki Vulcan 500 and you are right, it is the best part of the day!

[@jamescampolo7824]

For a commuter and an all around small cruiser, I bought a Honda Rebel 1100 DCT. $9,999. Water cooled, chain drive, ABS, Cruise, DCT 4 mode, 86HP, 500lbs, 45+mpg.. The DCT is great in traffic, when you are stopped, you don't have to hold in the clutch and to go just give it gas and it quick shifts through the gears very smooth. Some heat when the fan kicks on for a minute. Take one for a ride, it hauls my 215lbs around quicker than snot. It's not a crotch rocket, it's a normal, sit up cruiser and agile as all get out.

[@stevena3446]

And the 1100T DCT comes standard with a batwing fairing and hard saddlebags. $11,299!

[@jamescampolo7824]

I bought my 1100 naked for $9999. in 2021 before they introduced the Tourer which has the fairing and bags standard for another $1299.@@stevena3446

[@bigtreecombatacademy2927]

I wouldn’t call 1100cc small

[@jamescampolo7824]

It's MY small bike. My other is a 750lb 8'4" 6 cylinder Valkyrie. It took me 500 miles to get used to the size of the Valkyrie. I am used to and comfortable on it. Now, even if I ride a small frame Hog, it feels small. The only Hog that comes close to the Valkyrie is a Harley Full Dresser.@@bigtreecombatacademy2927

[@stevena3446]

@@bigtreecombatacademy2927 subjective I know, but they feel like small bikes to me. Of course I’ve been riding a Road King.

[@jimgourgoutis]

Love my 2018 NC750X - 60mpg!

[@MrCommuterUG256]

With my 2018 Honda NC750x, I don’t complain. I do daily commutes to work through traffic.

[@jhask64]

My Honda NT700 handles my “off season” riding when it’s either too cold or dirty roads for my other bikes. Heated grips, shaft drive, adjustable windshield and built in saddlebags. 50 mpg is nice also. 👍🏼

[@barrybell121]

Just watched your video on how our brain learns. Excellent as always, but your point about not showing crashes is exactly right. Negative images do not aid in the learning process. Thank you for making me a better rider.

[@damirzuljevic8563]

I commute on '07 suzuki v-strom 650...very nice bike for that

[@roberthaldeman5312]

I agree. I have a 2015 650 Vstrom I ride to work April to October. Being from Pennsylvania, I am not a fan of cold weather riding

[@damirzuljevic8563]

@@roberthaldeman5312 I'm lucky to be living in worm country of Croatia. We have lot of sunny days even in a winter, so I drive it whole year

[@kaderedmond8475]

Same ! Mines a 2017

[@fxrblue777]

As a Harley purist, I’m bummed at the motor companies lack of options that check all the boxes in the commuter bike space.

[@progkarma944]

Triumph Tiger Sport 660. Luggage options, good fuel economy, good handling. My recommendation.

[@benparaan3543]

Hi, while working in NJ (now retired), I would commute 70 miles roundtrip with about 10 miles of city/suburban and the rest at highway speeds (55-70 mph). I also drive EVs so the switch to electric motorcycling was painless and quite enjoyable. Currently have a Zero SR/S which would not be a bad commuter in its own right as it has some internal storage and is very cheap to run. I used to have an electric BMW C Evolution scooter which worked superbly on my commute. It is quick enough to beat a superbike (the big dog Sukuzi Yahabusa to keep the victim's identity concealed) at an unplanned stoplight drag. I wouldn't believe it myself but it happened. The C Evo scooter had an 85mph top speed, reverse "gear", heated grips, storage, easy handling and great weather protection built in, something you didn't mention but the NC750X had it. My one bone of contention about the Fuell was also you fave feature, the rear hub motor. Replacing that rear tire wouldn't be as simple for a tire-shredder bike with big time torque. It would almost guarantee the need for dealer service, it seems. BTW, I put a bunch of commuting miles on my BMW K1600 GTL. That bike is as close to an all-weather commuting bike as you can get, save for when you have white fluffy stuff on the road. The adjustable windscreen makes rain a non-issue when going fast enough. While luxurious, the powerful engine allows naughtiness when the right grip unleashes 160 hp.

[@rcovey47]

Hi Kevin, great video, thanks. I commuted 120 miles a day on LA freeways for several years, initially on a BMW K100RT, but moved to a BMW R1100RT after a couple of years. The R1100 had ABS, electrically adjustable windscreen, factory heated grips and the telelever front suspension that were huge upgrades from the K-bike. If I had to make that trip again, I'd pick up a low mileage R1200RT without thinking twice about it. I did all the service and repairs on both bikes, the R series bikes were easy to work on. The Honda you mentiorned is appealing (I just sold a CB500X), but for actual daily use I think shaft drive is pretty significant, at least to me.

[@Taking_Care_Of_The_Business]

Agree with you on the big sport tourers are practical commuter along with the shaft drive

[@BubbaSmurft]

650 Burgman. Twist and go, HUGE luggage space easy, comfy-ish and cheap to ride, fuel and tire. Cruise at 120khp all day long.

[@jenglish01]

I lucked out and picked up a 2014 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS with only 13k on it for around $3000. I've been riding it for about a month and love it. It doesn't have bags but I really don't mind wearing a backpack for now. I'm kind of an accessory geek so will probably end up getting some. I've been mostly focusing on protective gear and traning material at the moment.

[@Masta686Yamato]

I have no car license and commute only by either motorcycle or bicycle, depending on my destination. I ride a Suzuki GS500 - it is not super fancy or fast, but is tough, has relatively low fuel consumption, comparable to some 250-class motorcycles, does well on highways, can easily be fixed (practically no electronics, carburetor-based) and spare parts are commonly available, at least in Europe. A true workhorse.

[@mattspitznagle327]

I got a 750 Honda shadow phantom I ride, I did put saddlebags on lt for extra storage.

[@t.michaelburch8200]

Kevin, love the videos. Our group has watched them together at our monthly meetings because of the high quality of your advice. One commuter bike no one talks about is the Suzuki Burgman 400 cc Maxi Scooter. I’ve owned 4 and put over 75,000 trouble free miles on each one. As much storage as a Goldwing if you add a GIVI trunk, 65 mpg on regular gas. Able to do 75 mph all day long two up. The automatic CV transmission is a dream in stop and go. I own Harley’s, a BMW, a 2021 Goldwing and a KLR dual sport. The current Burgman 400 with ABS is my go to for commuting the 28 miles one way and hauling Groceries. Not a girls bike, more like a sport bike in disguise.

[@olliechristopher467]

Many years back I saw a really well set up CBR600 (and rider) that was used as a messenger service in downtown Santa Monica/Los Angeles. He had the ergos and a custom top box. I really liked that bike. It was beat up but very functional.

[@whiskeyshots]

I bought a KTM Duke 390 and put a 40L lockable Shad hardcase on the back. It makes an excellent commuter. $5k brand new, 70 mpg if you're easy on the throttle and 50 if you ride it like it's stolen. Light, small enough to lane slit or squeeze into holes, and even throws in Bluetooth controls on the dash for your phone. It doesn't like to get much above 80, so if you've got a long high-speed interstate stretch, i wouldn't recommend it, but it's peppy, so it's fun to ride in the city, below 60. If you are going to commute on a bike, do as much maintenance as you can on your own, or you'll go broke at the mechanic.

[@postal_the_clown]

Watching Itchy Boots' travels in west Africa, she's been rescued or assisted by locals on bikes in harsh conditions. I wanna know what they're "commuting" on over there.

[@snorman1911]

I'd like to know too. You know for sure they are cheap to own and maintain and take a beating.

[@mikejankowski6321]

Nice chat. Short, focused, conversational, adequately informational.

[@joshuathomas8529]

What do you think about the new Royal Enfield super meteor?

[@richard66754]

I’ve been commuting on a triumph tiger sport 660. Plenty of storage with three optional boxes. You can also have a speed shifter and heated grips. The only downer is no cruise control.

[@rodintoulouse3054]

I own the nc750x dct and an electric bike similar to the fuell, called super soco tcmax. Nothing beats the electric bike for my commute. Around 20 km, all of it in urban areas.

[@danaboatman954]

Really like my Suzuki Burgman. But most larger displacement scooters are worth consideration

[@broderp]

Electric may not a lot of maintenance, but they sure have a lot of risk IMO. They are relatively uncommon with little or no dealer network. This will impact parts and servicing the motorcycle. On an electric vehicle you trade maintenance for replacement. The likelihood of any electrical issue will take you out of rising and cost a ton of money. So I have to wonder, how much does that 10.4K electric really cost if you have one issue with it, such as a motor, controller or wiring? It's never a good idea to pre-order or crowd fund new tech. I would rather pay 2-3K more for a proven design with some real-world usage and reports behind it. With all that being said, this electric bike if proven reliable, would be great for my needs. Thanks for sharing the information!

[@sjaakdebaar9371]

You missed a couple of issues: cleaning the bike, how easy is it, and weather protection. In this regard, a scooter is king, besides the storage space and economy. They come natuarally as automatic (cvt) which makes sense in city traffic.

[@MitchBeck-s7m]

Yes, couple of very good points you bring up. And you're right, most scooter models can be a little easier to clean, and do offer some weather protection as well. Many also have at least some lockable storage, and a lower cost of purchase and operating. And like you said, the cvt makes for easier riding in tight stop and go and crawl along type of city traffic. I've never owned one, NOT YET, but may in the future. Ride safe everyone, enjoy, and cheers from northwestern Alberta eh 👊😎

[@MrMikeDao]

Cleaning and weather protection for a scooter is like any other motorcycle

[@georgeszilva1223]

Love my Piaggio bv 250...top speed 120 kph...77 mph, not twitchy steering...17"" wheels, top bag and side bag!! 60 + mpg

[@bladeh7734]

I'm a new rider. I got a MT-03. Just the right size for a first bike, low insurance, good mileage, and easy to handle for my work commute. Didn't take me long to realize I need a little storage and I enjoy riding beyond the work commute. I got a seat bag so i don't have to carry a backpack. However, if I want to quick stop I have nowhere for my helmet and jacket, or anything else. I'm eyeing the Honda but need to pay the MT-03 off and work on my riding skills some more.

[@sci-fyguy7767]

I ride a ninja 300 & have always just hung my helmet on the rear seat peg & have never had a problem.

[@jamesw.3491]

Being a new rider you may not know there are many solutions to the helmet and jacket issue, that don't require hard bags or the like to store them. A gun cable lock or a bicycle cable lock are two ways to lock your jacket and helmet to your bike. There are also aftermarket helmet locks that can be bolted to the bike that will lock your helmet to the bike. Saddle bags are nice, but they never seem to have enough room or carry your cargo ideally. And no matter what you choose, they tend to be expensive. Most soft bags do not hang well without a frame, another problem with carrying a load on a bike. Soft bags generally don't lock either, another problem. Hard bags are expensive, and will not mount without frames. Most are too small for helmets and jackets.

[@GixxerRider1991]

I bought my 2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone specifically for commuting. It's incredibly easy to service, plus, being shaft-driven it needs no chain maintenance. It can handle tight hair pins, long highway jaunts, and everything in between.

[@FairladyS130]

Agree with your Kawasaki Vulcan 650 choice, pick of the general purpose cruisers and very competitively priced.

[@mattweimer5067]

Commuting on my old ktm duke was alot of fun.

[@dallascatsrichard2447]

Good commuter bikes recommended in this informative video as well as the comment section. I am fortunate to have the best commuter bike ever created; the Honda Pacific Coast. With a waterproof clam-shell trunk and an aftermarket top box, it easily keeps all my gear secure and can carry huge amounts of payload. Shaft drive and hydraulic valves make it almost maintenance free. 50 mpg on 87 octane and excellent weather protection from its full fairing. This bike covers all the bases. Can tour cross country or run to get groceries. Comfortable seat and riding position with great low speed handling as well. It was actually designed for commuting. As long as I can ride, there will be a PC800 in the stable.

[@Taking_Care_Of_The_Business]

Nice! This is what I call the ultimate bike. Shame that no one does this anymore only the fancy and expensive successors as in the goldwing or BMW RT.. Less practicality but more luxury touring money pits.

[@beepbop6697]

Can vouch for the Vulcan S, put about 23k miles on mine in a few years while community (traded it for z900rs). Hard saddlebags from Viking Bags, and you are good to go.

[@John_Ridley]

I really would love to own an electric motorcycle, but I recently retired and other than a couple of trips to the gym per week, whenever I go out these days it's for a hundred miles or more, mostly at high speeds, just riding around with no stops, so it doesn't really work for me. Hoping for a battery breakthrough.

[@Labgorilla]

V strom 650 is my choice. 100 miles a day.

[@frankm4611]

This is my first season and I got a vtx1800 added a luggage rack and a couple Viking bags. Been doing some fixing up while I add experience. She’s never let me down and gets it when I want her to. Got about 3500 miles this year and I even get to make a long run up and down the famous Woodard. So on occasion I get to show some that a comfortable cruiser can run with some fast boys. Made quite a show when I strapped down the pool chemicals on a run home one night. But we both made it no problem.

[@sauceboss9313]

Haha, one of the biggest and meanest bikes you can buy. Love it! Always love hearing one cruise by. Almost bought one but I couldn't store it at my house. Limited space. Old lady was selling her late husbands with only 3k on the ODO, garage kept, mint condition. She was asking $2500. It had aftermarket pipes and jet black.

[@daveclarke5766]

thanks Kevin as always good information, I am retired now and planning a six month trip to Thailand to acclimatize with possible retiring there, plan on selling my Street Glide, used to ride a Shadow, but that Honda NC750x sure make good sense, seeing as they are made there makes it all the better choice, gonna miss my HD, but not the winters it was parked.

[@fransjoe]

I actually own a 2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS. I absolutely love it as a weekend rider and as a commuter. It is also VERY forgiving as a first bike, i would recommend this as a fun commuter and much better option for a first ride than a Rebel 300. I've been riding for 2 years, and hope to be able to show my son the love of riding some day.

[@aaronpettigrew9674]

Actually, my commute is a large part of the reason I chose a tour bike when I got back on two wheels. I'm an OTR trucker so I carry 1-2 weeks of laundry, my laptop, some groceries, my thermos, and some occasional extras. I also keep some tools, including a solar battery tender. I often pick up a few things for supper and breakfast on the way home, so I don't have to rush back out after I get there. Of course, I splurged because I could. I have a Roadmaster Dark Horse, and I'd always wanted a new American bike.

[@johnb6084]

I have mixed feelings about the Flow. It looks great but I would think some of that technolgy would be expensive to repair. I commute on a supercub getting 120 mpg.

[@bigtreecombatacademy2927]

That would be my concern Where do u get them serviced ?

[@WESTBOUND602]

Electric Cycles is what I do. I own three electric. A stretched out Harley looking, blacked out bike, dirt bike and street racer. All ELECTRIC! I can build them, and riding them are so much fun! Take care. Much respect.

[@kevindowell6003]

My commute is half highway, half city. In the morning traffic is typically light, coming home is typically heavy stop and go. My daily has been a BMW K1200GT. Great bike for mountain riding and long trips and small enough and well mannered enough for the commute. Heavy traffic or limited parking situations it sometimes seems a bit big.Touring tires and BMW maintenance are a concern. I’ve added a Moto Guzzi V7 Special, riding that now for most of my commuting. It isn’t as nice on an open highway, but considerably more nimble and well mannered in heavy traffic and when looking for parking. Soft cases, lined with a dry bag are smaller than the GT but big enough for my lunch, computer and the layers I don’t need in the afternoon. The retro look, 10-12 mpg more, and V twin sound have been enjoyable as well.

[@dcstrng1]

Excellent -- I admit I'd not choose one of your three, but you mentioned low center of gravity -- low speed handling (like clutch-slipping speeds when your trapped between Jersey walls with no shoulder and creeping traffic...) is something I would make a very high priority... surprisingly, I've found tourers/cruisers (HD baggers, Kawasaki Nomad, etc...) to be some of the best at this stuff (like you, I commuted roughly 35K a year for about 190K miles... so...)

[@mybibleandmybike]

I commute on my Honda Goldwing DCT just about everyday and love it… saves gas and enjoy the ride… ride safe

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

I would want something not too heavy (under 600lbs), something I could flat foot in case of traffic (splitting/filtering illegal here in N.J.) , a comfy seat with an upright(ish) seating position.

[@MightyHouse]

Honda ST1100 great for around town and weekend runs.

[@ssmit80]

I used to ride one of those. Kind of miss the luggage.

[@motomike648]

CB500X fits well into this category.

[@benjamincs1]

It really depends on your commute, whether you can filter (lane split), and the climate where you live. If you filter then you will want something narrow, without panniers, that is light and easy to throw around. Also if you have motorway then you might want wind protection. None of these bikes has any / much. If it's warm where you live then you might want a naked bike. If it's cold then you'll want a fairing and a big engine for heat ☺️

[@Taking_Care_Of_The_Business]

Exactly

[@manuelcamacho-cazares4639]

What are your thoughts on the Honda Rebel 1100T with the DCT transmission. I currently ride a 2022 Road King as my primary mode of transportation.

[@Dogatemyhomework927]

How would it be for longer touring! I see mileage for urban but not highway

[@Brettmotorcycles]

I would highly recommend the Super Meteor 650 if you could figure out a good wind screen

[@OneJamesH]

More video on this would be great

[@LTVoyager]

Though I am not a scooter rider, if commuting is your mission, a scooter is your solution. I have worked in Taiwan, Korea and Japanese and they commute a lot on two wheels, both bicycles and motorized two wheelers and scooters are the weapon of choice. And some will easily exceed 80 MPG should you have a few miles of freeway on your commute.

[@benjamincs1]

Assuming your commute is in the city, maybe. But not so good if it includes motorway / highway miles.

[@LTVoyager]

@@benjamincs1 Did you even read my post before commenting?

[@benjamincs1]

@@LTVoyager I responded to it directly. Scooters are no good on the motorway. Was that not clear?

[@papaballoon]

​@@benjamincs1odd.. I have ridden about 80,000 miles on scooters. Denver to Chicago, Minneapolis to Dallas.. in traffic in several cities

[@LTVoyager]

@@benjamincs1 Yes, it is clear that you haven’t ridden a modern scooter and have no idea what you are talking about.

[@LawrenceBroussard]

Normally EV do not impressive me due to marketing of them as the answer to every situation. I can see how Fuell fits a very real need. I was impressed with the Kawasaki Vulcan S!

[@Outbound2home]

My favorite commuter is a suzuki boulevard C50. Cheap purchase, maintenance is easy and with a good set of bags you can’t complain. 😊✌️🏍️

[@clipty2463]

I ride the sister bike from the Yammy side, the V-Star 950 :) I love it

[@whysoda]

Not sure if this quite counts, but I've been using a vespa 150 to get around for my work commute (I'm in a densely populated urban city) since the maintenance is so so low. However, when I'm not commuting I'm on something a bit larger for my jaunts outside of the city limits :D

[@arnoldjrimmer6527]

Defining your own commute is critical: 1 hour each way, motorway 🛣 (freeway) with busy city to city. I do not have a commuter bike, but use my MT-09 as it is a versatile naked.

[@davidfalgout7304]

with out question and with out peer... my Suzuki DR650. Commute, Cross country, off road, Starbucks... and always stay away from the stealership. Owned all the bikes mentioned below. Been riding since 1968, over 250,000 miles, raced pro, yep the mighty DR650 is the "shiznit"!

[@TwistofWrist]

I've been commuting on a Z900 for a few years, and before that a Z1000. The power is a bit too much for daily usage, but since it's my only bike, it has to be a big bike. My aim is getting an electric bike that has 10 kWh battery for daily commute and a light ADV like the CFMoto 450MT.

[@wanderleisantosfilho5765]

surefit is not about self-adjusting controls. you pick which ones you want when you build the Vulcan and they get it for you free of charge and there's no take-away left over.

[@thereplacementfordisplacement]

If you're only riding for commuting and occasional long ride, buy 1 bike and ride it, don't worry about it. If you put tons of miles on bikes, like more than 5000mi/yr buy a commuter specific bike. Nothing does well when it sits around not getting used frequently, not to mention depreciation. For me commuting 28 miles round trip in my r1200gs, before that road king, before that v65 magna has been some of the most enjoyable commuting. They were all plenty easy to manage and have fun. You'll miss aspects of them after they are gone but you keep refining to your needs.

[@gvs1173]

My new favorite commuter is my 1991 Harley FXR that just had a 120 cubic inch motor shoehorned into it. Granted, the bike was given to me, and the motor wasn't cheap but the combination sure is fun

[@ssmit80]

I commute on an older Triumph Street TripleR 675. Handling is great, maintenance isn't too bad, but fuel mileage isn't great since it's such a lively little bike that begs for you to misbehave. I just use an Ogio tail bag that my helmet fits in to bring into work with me.

[@papaballoon]

My in town riding for years was a125cc Honda. A 250cc is more versitile. My Honda and yamaha scooters have done a great job.

[@simonsonjh]

I also commuted everyday on two wheels in Dallas from 1976 to 1991. I never once carried a computer on a motorcycle though. I'm a computer scientist.

[@woodstockwoodstock2116]

There are many suitable bikes to commute. I am a Royal Enfield guy. Any of the current range applies.

[@bigtreecombatacademy2927]

Love my s40 for commuting Low end torque , fast enough for general traffic and good fuel economy

[@Roger_Ramjet]

Volvo?

[@derek17005]

@@Roger_Ramjet Suzuki S40. Used to be called the "Savage". It's a single cylinder 650 engine otherwise known as a thumper. Great bikes and easily maintained.

[@bigtreecombatacademy2927]

@@derek17005 that’s the one So reliable and great low end power for traffic, handles higjways well enough and looks killer Cheap to mod too

[@carsyoungtimerfreak1149]

For me the best daily rider is clear: any BMW RT. Of course I do not have my RT only as a daily rider, it is also one of my hobby bikes. Not cheap, but that was never a goal for me. Most Police forces use RTs and I now understand why: stable, excellent weather protection, lots of luggage space, very comfortable and quite easy to handle because low centre of gravity. And, to me very important, shaft drive. And excellent for long (motorway) journeys when you're not working!

[@viennapalace]

I must say, I am really interested in the electric bike. Anything Eric Buell is involved with is going to be worth a look. I just hope they come to Australia. I recently went looking for a bike to ride to work cause my hot 2003 FLHR is not exactly suited to wafting along at 60km/h (35 mph) or slipping between the lines of traffic. I was looking for a GS500 or something similar & ended up going home with a 2016 Moto Guzzi V7II Special & I must say, I haven't regretted it for a moment. In fact, the only time I've sat on my Harley since bringing it home is to look at the Guzzi... Air-cooled, push rods, V-twin, shaft drive, spokes, two shock absorbers, 22 litre (5.8 US Gal.) fuel capacity, ABS & traction control... It ticks all the boxes that appeal to both my head & my heart with the added bonus of being a barrel of laughs on the weekend when I venture up into the hills around Adelaide. All it needs is a top-box to be everything I need & more. True, they're not for everyone but for those of us who get what they're about, they're like a breath of fresh air compared to some of the hunchback spacemen that most bikes these days seem to resemble. If you want a genuine all-rounder or even an authentic retro bike (as opposed to a modern bike that looks retro) that can tour AND handle the daily commute with aplomb, take a Moto Guzzi for a ride. You might hate it or you might just fall in love just like I have. Thanks for another interesting & enlightening video & greetings from sunny South Australia! Stay safe & have fun out there!

[@_______-]

Cheap Gen 1 Tiger Explorer 1200. Weather protection, plenty of storage, good on the motorway, shaft drive, easy to clean and work on.

[@ruthlesshatchet6353]

I use a Kawasaki Z900 as a daily rider. It is decent on the comfort and peppy enough to get around traffic if you choose. I have always thought that the 100 hp is the standard for perfect. Aggressive riders should go a bit more and cautious people a little less. MT09, Triumph triples, and several other good options in this category.

[@davidholmes5910]

Thanks, Kevin. The Fuell, has peaked my interest. Does it have a transmission?