Top 10 New Motorcycles of 2025 (So Far) – Mid-Year Roundup of the Hottest Releases

Top 10 New Motorcycles of 2025 (So Far) – Mid-Year Roundup of the Hottest Releases We’re halfway through 2025, and it’s already a blockbuster year for motorcycle launches. From cutting-edge sportbikes to next-gen ADVs and electric innovations, here are the 10 hottest new motorcycles of 2025 so far.

1. 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9

Yamaha’s new R9 has taken the mid-weight sportbike world by storm. Powered by a thrilling 890cc triple, the YZF-R9 slots perfectly between the R7 and R1, delivering around 117 hp of accessible performance. Riders rave about its balanced nature – it’s track-capable yet street-friendly, with relatively comfortable ergonomics and a full suite of electronics (IMU-based traction control, ride modes, quickshifter). The R9’s MotoGP-inspired styling and nimble handling make it a head-turner at bike nights and a weapon in the canyons. Simply put, Yamaha bridged the supersport gap and created one of the must-ride bikes of 2025. This is a machine for those who want modern superbike tech without the literbike intimidation.

2. 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Ultra

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Harley’s latest long-haul tourer, the Street Glide Ultra. Unveiled this year, the 2025 Ultra represents a new era for Harley’s Grand American Touring line. It’s powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin for effortless highway cruising, but the big story is a substantial 49-pound weight reduction and major tech upgrades. Harley endowed the Ultra with a giant 12.3” TFT touchscreen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and navigation), radar-based safety aids like adaptive cruise and blind-spot warning, and improved aerodynamics that cut helmet buffeting by 60%. All that while keeping the classic batwing fairing and chrome-on-black style. For riders who crave comfort, technology, and V-twin character on cross-country trips, the Street Glide Ultra is the hot-ticket tourer of 2025. It’s a new generation of American bagger that shows Harley can innovate for the modern touring rider.

3. 2025 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE

If sport-touring with warp-speed power is your thing, look no further than the updated Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE. Carrying the “H2” namesake, this machine packs a supercharged 998cc inline-four that delivers an eye-watering rush when you open it up. For 2025, Kawasaki refined this hyper-tourer with the latest electronic suspension, Advanced Rider Assist Systems (including adaptive cruise control and collision warnings), and slight engine tweaks for smoothness. The result? A bike that’s unrivaled in the sport-touring segment for straight-line performance – we’re talking 200+ horsepower on tap – yet is also laden with practical features like hard luggage, heated grips, and cruise control. The H2 SX SE’s distinctive supercharger chirp and brutal acceleration have earned it a halo status. It’s not for the faint of heart (or wallet), but for riders who want the ultimate “gentleman’s missile”, the H2 SX SE remains one of the hottest (and fastest) rides of 2025.

4. 2025 BMW R1300GS

BMW’s flagship adventure bike enters a new generation this year with the launch of the R1300GS. Already crowned by many as the “Adventure King,” the GS somehow gets even better for 2025. BMW bumped engine displacement to ~1,300cc, coaxing out 145 hp and 110 lb-ft of torque from the evolved boxer twin – a healthy boost in power. At the same time, a new chassis and weight-saving measures shed about 12 kg (26 lbs) compared to the old R1250GS, giving the big GS improved agility on both road and trail. The R1300GS also debuts Adaptive Vehicle Height Control, which automatically lowers the suspension at stops to help riders get their feet down – a game-changer for manageability on a tall ADV bike. With its EVO Telelever front suspension, advanced electronics (cornering ABS, off-road modes, TFT connectivity), and legendary all-terrain capability, the new GS is the benchmark for big ADVs. Whether it’s conquering the Pan-American highway or the daily commute, BMW’s R1300GS is one of 2025’s brightest stars in motorcycling.

5. 2025 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse

For fans of American iron, Indian Motorcycle’s big release is the Chief Bobber Dark Horse. This factory custom cruiser oozes attitude, pairing old-school bobber looks with modern performance. The Dark Horse packs Indian’s Thunderstroke 116 V-twin – a nearly 1.9-liter air-cooled engine churning out 120 ft-lbs of torque. Every twist of the throttle delivers instant, tire-smoking grunt. What’s new for 2025 is a slate of mean color options and subtle refinements to this already stripped-down heavyweight. It’s got fat 16-inch spoke wheels, mini-ape handlebars, forward controls, and a solo seat at just 26 inches high – giving most riders an easy flat-foot stance and that classic “knees in the breeze” posture. Despite the throwback vibe, the Chief Bobber Dark Horse isn’t primitive: it features a 4” Ride Command touchscreen gauge with navigation and ride modes. Essentially, it’s a blend of vintage cool and modern tech. If rolling thunder with a dose of technology is your idea of hot, the Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse stands out as one of 2025’s coolest cruiser offerings.

6. 2025 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ST

Harley-Davidson doubles up on our list with the introduction of the Pan America 1250 ST, a street-focused twist on their successful adventure bike. The Pan America ST takes the rugged 1250 Special and tunes it for pavement performance – think of it as an ADV sport-tourer. Harley lowered the suspension and swapped to 17-inch cast wheels with sport tires for improved on-road handling. The result is surprisingly agile for a bike with a 1250cc V-twin heart. Speaking of which, the Revolution Max motor gets a boost to 150+ hp with a new “117 High Output” tune, giving the Pan Am ST serious punch. It still has features like adaptive ride height and a full electronics suite, but now tailored to those who mostly carve canyons and blast down highways rather than gravel trails. With its distinctive style and newfound cornering prowess, the Pan America 1250 ST expands what a Harley can be. It’s one of this year’s most intriguing new motorcycles, attracting adventure riders who spend the bulk of time on tarmac but love the commanding ADV ergonomics and capability.

7. 2025 Suzuki GSX-8R

Middleweight sportbike fans have another reason to celebrate: Suzuki has jumped into the ring with the all-new GSX-8R. Using the 776cc parallel twin from the GSX-8S naked, the GSX-8R is a fully faired sport machine designed to deliver “a satisfying ride that is reassuring, reliable, and ready for action.” Don’t let the modest displacement fool you – this bike is aimed squarely at the likes of the Ninja 650 and YZF-R7, but with extra firepower. The 8R’s twin makes around 82 horsepower and comes paired with a suite of rider aids (traction control, multiple power modes, ABS) to help newer riders. Where it shines is balance: the GSX-8R is controllable and agile, with a lightweight chassis that’s equally at home slicing through city traffic or leaning through backroad bends. And true to Suzuki’s rep, it’s a great value with a sub-$10K price tag, undercutting some competitors. Dressed in Suzuki’s MotoGP-inspired Triton Blue or a striking Pearl Yellow, the GSX-8R proudly revives the spirit of the old SV650S and Katana in a modern package. This approachable yet spirited sportbike has quickly become one of 2025’s hottest tickets for riders looking for affordable fun.

8. 2025 Triumph Speed 400 (and Scrambler 400X)

Triumph made big news this year by going small – introducing the Speed 400 roadster and its sibling, the Scrambler 400X. These 398cc single-cylinder bikes mark Triumph’s entry into the sub-500cc category, and they’ve immediately set a new standard for beginner-friendly motorcycles. The Speed 400, with its neo-retro styling, produces about 40 horsepower and tips the scales around 375 lbs, making it approachable for new riders. It features high-quality components like big-bike Triumphs: upside-down forks, ByBre disc brakes with ABS, and even traction control. The little Speed’s performance and build belie its size – reviewers praise its responsive handling and surprisingly torquey pull for a single. Its Scrambler 400X variant adds a 19” front wheel, longer suspension, and scrambler styling for those who want light off-road ability or a different aesthetic. Together, they offer modern classic looks with modern reliability in an entry-level package. Priced aggressively, these Triumph 400s have quickly become some of the best motorcycles for new riders in 2025 (and fun runabouts for experienced folks, too). They’re proof that small bikes can be big on character, landing them firmly among the year’s top releases.

9. 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 500

Kawasaki’s venerable Ninja line gets a fresh face this year with the Ninja 500. This fully faired sportbike is essentially a Ninja 400 on steroids – it packs a 451cc parallel-twin engine (sourced from the new Eliminator cruiser) tuned for a bit more punch on top. The Ninja 500 is targeted at riders who want an approachable sport machine with a touch more performance and size. With roughly 55 horsepower on tap and a taut chassis, it slots nicely between the beginner-focused Ninja 400 and the more track-oriented ZX-6R. Kawasaki wisely kept the Ninja 500’s ergonomics relaxed and rider-friendly, similar to the 400 – you get a moderately low seat and comfortable bar position, so it’s not as demanding as a supersport. It also includes niceties like slip-assist clutch, full LED lighting, and smartphone connectivity in the dash. Essentially, the Ninja 500 “raises the standard” by giving newer riders room to grow without the immediate jump to a high-strung 600. Early reports praise its smooth power delivery and well-balanced handling. Given its reasonable price and the Ninja name’s cachet, this bike is easily one of the most anticipated releases of 2025 – a perfect Goldilocks sportbike for the everyday rider.

10. 2025 Moto Guzzi V100 Stelvio

Rounding out our list is an adventure-touring heavy hitter from Italy: the Moto Guzzi V100 Stelvio. Reviving the famed Stelvio name, this is Moto Guzzi’s newest ADV bike based on the V100 Mandello platform. It features a 1042cc transverse V-twin pumping out around 115 hp, shaft drive, and the distinctive rumble that only a Guzzi can provide. What makes the 2025 Stelvio special is how it blends Moto Guzzi’s heritage with high-tech touring features. It comes with semi-active suspension, a robust electronics package (ride modes, cruise, cornering ABS), and even innovative active aerodynamics like its sport-touring sibling (adjustable wind deflectors that deploy at speed). The Stelvio is built to tackle both asphalt and dirt – it rolls on a 19” front wheel, has generous suspension travel, and plenty of crash protection standard. Yet it’s also more compact and significantly lighter than some competitors (reports say around 540 lbs wet), which is noticeable in its handling. Riders who have tested it rave about the characterful engine and comfortable ergonomics that make long journeys a pleasure. The Stelvio’s mix of style, sound, and capability has put Moto Guzzi back on the ADV map. For those wanting a break from the usual suspects (BMW GS, KTM, etc.), the V100 Stelvio is one of 2025’s most compelling new adventure bikes – a soulful Italian contender with real bite. Honorable Mentions: It was hard to limit this list to 10! 2025 also brought us the Honda XL750 Transalp’s return to the U.S. market, Ducati’s limited-run Monster 30° Anniversario, the futuristic Damon HyperSport HS electric sportbike, and KTM’s revamped 390 Duke. Clearly, the motorcycle industry is buzzing with innovation and variety this year. If the first half of 2025 is any indicator, riders have a lot to be excited about. Whether you’re into cruisers, sportbikes, ADVs or electric machines, there’s never been a better time to ride.