A motorcycle is a motorcycle is a motorcycle … right? There are different types of models and manufacturers, but the basic concept hasn’t changed much in the last fifty years.
That’s going to change in the near future. There are some concept bikes we’re dying to see made in real life and some new motorcycles you can get as soon as next year.
Keep reading to learn what’s so different about these new models and what we can look forward to in the semi-distant future.
Futuristic Updates
We all know and love classic motorcycles, but there’s always room for improvement. Here are some things scientists and tech companies are working on to make more futuristic rides.
1. Lighter Composite Frames
The frame of your bike, whether you ride one with a frame exposed or not, has a lot to do with the weight of the bike.
And some materials are lighter than others but harder to work with. That leads to lower weight, but higher prices. So what’s technology working on to make lighter frames more accessible?
3D printing! Three major companies already have prototypes for 3D printed bike frames.
They’re more efficient to manufacture, but they’re not yet on the market. We’ll see if they hold up to testing and if they do – look for them on the market in a couple of years.
2. Haptic Warnings
If you’ve driven any luxury-model new cars, you’ve probably felt them give you haptic feedback. Like the wheel vibrating if you leave the lane or letting you know when someone’s in your blind spot.
Damon, a developer, and manufacturer, is working on haptic feedback for bikes. It would work by sending vibrations through the handlebars.
They’re even looking into live-stream cameras on the back of the bike, so you know the safest move to make (or can provide video evidence in the case of an accident).
3. Self-Balancing Bikes?
Self-driving vehicles still aren’t a day-to-day reality, other than some Tesla models that can do small tasks, like pulling themselves out of the garage.
And self-driving motorcycles? You’re probably thinking “no way Jose”. And you’re right – self-driving motorcycles won’t be on the market in the next five years.
But you may see some advances in self-balancing technology. Honda and BMW tested a bike that could navigate a closed driving track by itself.
So as far as self-driving motorcycles go, that’s still science fiction. But we’re getting a little closer to bringing them to reality.
Let’s talk about the less distant future – 2020 bike models we can’t wait to get our hands-on.
2020 Bikes You Can Buy Next Year
Aside from futuristic concept models, here are some bikes you can actually spend your money on.
2020 BMW S100RR
If you’re a fan of the RR models, you’re going to love this upgrade. Not only is it strong and sleek looking, but it’s also strong and sleek driving.
It has over 200 horsepower and 83 pound-feet maximum torque. It’s going to do about a 74 on average when you’re not maxing it out.
The designers at BMW are trying to give you a really “all-in-one” feel here. They want you to get a hot looking bike that’s a 10/10 on performance.
It has all the modern necessities, like LED headlights, an ergonomic seating position, and even newer, lighter suspension technology. We’re talking 25 pounds lighter than the 2019 model – which is an accomplishment.
If you want to bike to ride even lighter than that, you can opt for the M package – but that’s up to you and your powersports dealer.
Safety reviews are praising it for its newly designed review mirrors, which give you a boost of visibility.
Don’t want the added weight or wind drag of the visibility mirrors and the led light-enabled license plate holder? Take them off and you’ve got a perfect racing bike.
We can see some big wins in your future with this 2020 model.
2020 BMW R1250RT
If you’re looking for something that rides a little less like a racing bike and more like something you could take a friend out on, check out this model.
It boasts a better engine displacement, improved shifting, and some serious power, at 136 HP.
That means you have more power and fewer shift changes, making each subsequent mile a little better than the one before.
The good people at BMW are even giving you choices for wheels when you choose a finished package. You can get some classic tour wheels or “sport” wheels.
If you’re looking for a touring bike but want it to have a little bit of an edge, opt for the sport wheels.
Another feature on this model that we love, for riders that live in hilly places, is the Standard Hill Start Control. They’re trying to make starting hills easier for you, with a rear brake option you don’t need to hold a foot/hand brake for.
If you often ride in places with hills and get on and off your bike often, this is an essential feature.
Speaking of brakes, they’ve even improved the emergency brake on this model. You could say it’s safe to stop here (get it?).
2020 Harley-Davidson Streetfighter
This model isn’t named “streetfighter” for nothing. It’s named that for the way it can zip across city streets and around sharp turns that no one sees coming.
This model is a step in the right direction for Harley-Davidson, who hasn’t had much input in the futuristic bike market or discussion lately.
This bike brings them into 2020 with a fierce competitor.
We don’t have that many details about it yet, but we do know it’s a middleweight model with some sleek black style anyone will love.
If you’re looking for a bike that’s mostly for transportation and a little bit for fun – keep an eye on HD as they roll this out next year.
2020 Harley-Davidson Pan-America Adventure
Are you more of a touring rider? Not a fan of sitting with your eyes practically level with the handlebars?
Harley just put out their new Pan-America adventure model just for you.
This bike isn’t just a plain old touring model. It’s an adventure-touring model, which means you can go offroad, and we think you should.
What’s so new about this model is that its shaped more like a Sportster, but you’ll ride it more like a touring bike. You get comfort and the bike gets more speed.
It’s a novel concept, which is probably why they made it. Does the idea of a sit-up-straight tour/Sportster appeal to you? Or will you stay with your couch-on-wheels that can carry the whole family?
2020 Ducati Panigale V4 25 Anniversario 916
While not technically a new bike, this is a souped-up bike model to celebrate the 25 years the 916 has been on the market.
This fast and light sports bike has been a favorite the world around, though in the early days it was difficult to get it in the States.
If you’re a fan of the Ducati 916 and you have some serious cash to spend – this bike may not be one you ride, rather, one you keep safe and sell for a profit.
Why? They’re only making 500 of this anniversary edition. Collectors will be paying out the nose for it in a few years.
If you can get your hands on one of the five hundred and it’s not for investing and reselling – you’ll love riding it too. It’s mostly a speed/racing edition that’s got things like the Ducati Quick Shift EVO 2 and predictive traction control.
You can sign up for release updates on the Ducati website if you’re interesting in bagging this 1,103 cc model. Pricing still isn’t out – but we’re sure Ducati will let you know as soon as they’re ready to go public.
2020 Honda CBR300R ABS
Of course, there is not much that Honda can do to improve one of their best selling models, the CBR. There’s not much structurally different or aesthetically different about this model – it’s just faster.
Introducing a new color this year, called pearl blue and we’re seeing a stronger engine.
Brakes are better on the 2020 model too, thanks to some better brake disks.
You have to like a naked, let-me-see-the-hardware type of look to drive a CBR and that’s still true with their 2020 model.
If you don’t have a bike – this model isn’t so different that you should be paying model-year-new prices. Maybe trade in an old bike to get this fresh model, to save some cool cash.
New Motorcycles in 2020: What to Expect
A lot of manufacturers are still showing concept models, and the few we listed here are some of the only 2020 bikes you can buy next year.
We’re sure that will change as the year goes on, but don’t expect to have a concept model in your garage next year.fhar
While you’re waiting, make sure you go check these new motorcycles out at your local dealership – and watch our news page for any updates.
