2022 BIKE OF THE YEAR

PHOTOS BY BEN QUINN, ANETT MESZAROS AND COURTESY OF DUCATI NORTH AMERICA AND ROYAL ENFIELD

YAMAHA MT-10 SP

Selecting a single motorcycle upon which to bestow the title of Bike of the Year is a daunting challenge that requires consideration of multiple elements. Sometimes, it is the introduction of new technology that allows one motorcycle to stand apart from the crowd. Other times, it may be a manufacturer’s initiative to step outside the norm to expand our vision of what makes a motorcycle or a willingness to create a motorcycle that eschews the latest and greatest tech in favour of attracting the elusive and must sought after new rider.

Of course, there is another consideration, and in the case of Inside Motorcycles’ 2022 Bike of the Year, it is quite simply a motorcycle that is enjoyable to ride and reminds us why we fell in love with life on two wheels in the first place.

While the Yamaha MT-10 – and its predecessor FZ1 – has been a fixture within the Yamaha lineup for years, the latest version of the company’s flagship Master of Torque ensures that it will retain its position on the wish list of motorcyclists everywhere. Along with a retuned and more efficient crossplane inline four-cylinder engine, the latest generation MT-10 receives extensive upgrades to its electronics setup plus improved braking courtesy of a Brembo master cylinder. Jumping up to the SP trim adds the latest version of Ohlins showstopping electronic suspension which is the perfect companion to the CP4 engine and allows riders to easily select an appropriate setup whether their day involves a casual ride through the countryside or tearing it up at a track day.

Yamaha’s MT-10 was built for riders in search of the quintessential motorcycle experience and the 2022 model takes this to its next level and makes it Inside Motorcycles’ choice for Bike of the Year. IM

Honourable Mentions

Even with supply chain issues limiting production and delivery of new models, there was a lot to be excited about in 2022 and selecting a bike of the year this time around was one of the most challenging tasks in recent memory. Here are just a few of the many motorcycles that were in the running for the 2022 crown.

Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak

Industry-leading electronics, premium components from companies such as Brembo and Ohlins and of course a 170 horsepower, 92 ft-lb 1,158 cc V-four engine come together in a package that offers a perfect blending of performance and comfort all wrapped up in Italian design.

YAMAHA YZF-R7

Building a race-ready sport bike around their proven CP2 parallel-twin has created a no-nonsense track day machine that will make even the most devout Yamaha enthusiast forget about the R6. And it’s a lot easier on your wallet as well.

Royal Enfield 350 Classic

“Everything you need and nothing that you don’t.” It’s that simple. As the motorcycle industry continues to search for ways to attract new riders, Royal Enfield’s approach to the 350 Classic provides a simple, straightforward entry to the world on two wheels, not to mention an undeniable cool factor.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ST LINEUP

The success of the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers and the aftermarket trend towards performance V-twin machines isn’t lost on the Motor Co. from Milwaukee. With the introduction of three ST spec bikes for 2022, Harley-Davidson took a bold step forward while also confirming that they are listening to their customers.

Kawasaki Klr650

Yes, we get it. You think it’s boring. But face it, the KLR has a loyal fan base that would be the envy of many rock bands. Add in the fact that it returned to the Kawasaki lineup in 2022 with fuel injection and the legend of this Swiss Army knife of the motorcycle world is set to grow and help bring the motorcycle industry along for the ride.