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5 Best Commuter Motorcycles of 2018

This list serves as a guide to commuter, motorcycles. It’s not an official segment of motorcycles, but certain lifestyles demand daily transportation in and out of urban areas, and a small motorcycle is the perfect answer. The five motorcycles included vary in size, style and price but are all perfect for navigating the daily grind.

Prefer to skip directly to the picks? Click right here.

The Short List

Best All-Around Commuter: 2018 Ducati Monster 821



In the Ducati Monster lineup, the 821 risked falling into obscurity as the middle child. The 797 is prized as the approachable, entry-level Ducati since the Scrambler line spiraled off into its own sub-brand. The Monster 1200 might have a near identical design to the little 797, but if you look closer, it’s a tech-laden superbike with no fairings and serious power. Instead of being a slightly bigger version of the 797, the 821 borrows supersport-level tech from the 1200 and brings it down to an approachable level. It gets the best of all worlds — the controllable and lightweight nature of the 797, plus a little extra shove from the engine and the top-of-the-line tech and control systems from the 1200. And it costs just over $11,000.

Who It’s For: The commuter who doesn’t need the power of a bigger engine, but wants the tech that seemingly only the bigger, more expensive bikes get.

What’s Good: “For some, and understandably so, the 147-horsepower Monster 1200 may prove to be too much bike and the 797 too small and rudimentary. The 821 comes in as the Goldilocks option: it utilizes the same frame, brakes, tank and headlight, the beautiful if intricate, color TFT instrument display and traction control and ride mode system as the more expensive 1200 — but delivers it all in a much more manageable, affordable package. That seems to be the magic of the Monster. The Scrambler may be its own sub-brand, but the Monster has its own following under the larger Ducati umbrella. It offers the same styling with different levels of performance, attracting a wider array of riders. It succeeds with an architecture Ducati got right the first time and has simply fined tuned over the years in small, minute increments like Porsche has done with the 911.” – Bryan Campbell

What to Watch Out For: The term ‘all-new’ for 2018 has to be used loosely. “The engine in the new 821 is the same 821cc Testastretta L-Twin engine from the outgoing model but gets a host of modern hardware from the bigger, more technologically advanced 1200. Looking at the 797 and the 821 side-by-side, you might say they’re both entry-level models; if the 797 is the base model, with no options ticked, the 821 is the upgraded sport package. – Bryan Campbell

Value: There are very few other bikes at this price point with this much technology on board, though that much tech is becoming increasingly more common. Aside from the power deficit and the yellow paint job option, the 821 is incredibly similar to its big brother, the Monster 1200 — a bike that starts around $17,000.

Design: “Ducati’s Monster married a superbike engine to a Super Sport frame and created somewhat of a new genre with the “naked” sportbike — a modern cafe racer of sorts. It was an undeniable hit. It was different. It was beautiful. It could handle the canyon roads as well as a race bike could tackle the track and it came with three different engine options: the M600, M750, and M900. Until now, we’ve had the all-new Monster 1200 and 797; and now, the latest update: the middleweight 821. For 2018, in keeping with tradition, Ducati brought its iconic, entry-level roadster into the modern era with an incredibly minimalistic approach.” – Bryan Campbell

Verdict: “The 821 certainly isn’t a paradigm shift in the Monster universe, but what it gets right is bringing upper-echelon sportbike technology within the grasp of new riders — or riders not interested in spending nearly $18,000 for what should be standard on any modern sport bike.” – Bryan Campbell

What Others Are Saying:
“Stylish yet utilitarian, practical yet exciting, thoroughly modern but consciously linked to its glorious past, the 821, like Italy itself, blends opposing forces in a harmonious whole, forging its own identity in the process. The 821 isn’t just the Monster 1200’s little sibling. It’s a user-friendly package suitable for less experienced riders, but it’s also competent and engaging in ways that appeal to riders looking for a motorcycle distinguished, not by a single dominant sensation, but by the parity of its parts in pursuit of motorcycling bliss.” – Cycle World

“By far the biggest change, though, is to the electronics, and this comes in two parts. First, the old, letterbox-esque LCD dashboard has been consigned to the trash can in favor of a thoroughly modern color TFT display. Second, Ducati have thrown a full-on electronics package as standard at the 821 and that means full ride-by-wire with 8-level configurable traction control, three-level configurable ABS, and three engine maps.” – Ride Apart

“In the end, I think the new Monster would make a fantastic and stylish first Ducati for any rider with more than six months of riding experience under their belt. Ducati wasn’t B.S.-ing when it claimed the new 821 is the “Best Balanced Monster.” – Motorcycle.com

Engine: 821cc L-Twin
Horsepower: 109
Torque: 63 lb-ft
Price: $11,995

Best Value Commuter: 2017/18 Kawasaki Z650



In the middle-weight naked bike category, the bikes are so closely matched that any scrutiny has to be done under a microscope. Pricing is all evenly matched, though the Kawi is one of the more affordable options compared to its Japanese rivals (even on the ABS model at $7,399) and also edges out the competition on styling with lively pearl white plastics and an electric green trellis frame. Where the Z650 really shines is under power in the mid-range, right where you need it for passing traffic in day-to-day commuter traffic.

Who It’s For: The rider who wants to save a money rather than shell out for the absolute best in class but still wants to enjoy tight and twisty back roads on the way home from work.

What’s Good: “Team Green developed this bike as the bigger brother of their own monkey-bike, the Z125 Pro. That means power took a backseat to flickability during development. Which is why Kawi only breathed on their tried-and-tested 649cc parallel-twin engine, opting to smooth out delivery and provide grunt where it was needed most — in the mid-range.” — Matt Neundorf

What to Watch Out For: To be a better bike for a wider audience, Kawasaki set up the front forks more lightly sprung than usual. It makes the bike more user-friendly to novice riders but aggressive riders might overdo it and find the front end diving under hard braking.

Value: For a modern, naked sports bike to have this level performance and a $6,999 price tag hanging off the bars, it’s a bargain.

Verdict: “You feel this as soon as you settle into the saddle. During stop-and-go stints in downtown Santa Monica, there were no struggles to stand flat-foot at lights, and the bike never felt like it could get away from me. The revised chassis geometry and slim, straight bars make 90-degree, grid-street negotiations a breeze, meaning this thing will do well for urban commuters too.” — Matt Neundorf

What Others Are Saying:
“In all, the Z650 satisfies nearly all of the prerequisites for an affordable, mid-level, sport-inspired machine. In terms of performance, nearly all of the systems found on the Z650 have massive amounts of potential to take a rider with little to no experience, and allow for a great deal of maturation to take place; a rider can develop their skills for a good while, before stepping to the next rung on the proverbial ladder.” – Ultimate Motorcycling

“As it stands, the bike is a great addition to the Z family, and proof of what Kawasaki has learned from years spent with the Z1000 and Z800 (both of which will be replaced by the Z900 for 2017). And it’s a great option for those naked bike lovers who’ve been waiting for a mid-displacement twin with Team Green badges on its side.” – Cycle World

Engine: 649cc parallel twin
Horsepower: 63
Torque: 42 lb-ft
Price: $6,999

Introduction

Navigating any concrete jungle can be hell — especially if you call the asphalt wilds your commute. Driving into the city is certified insanity and public transportation isn’t always the most reliable (which is the understatement of the year for any New Yorker). That only leaves one serious option: a motorcycle. In the city, agility trumps power and bulk is the enemy of timeliness. To get to work on time what you need is a slender, nimble bike that looks good and handles well — here are five of the best motorcycles for any city-dweller.

Terms to Know

Sport Standard: A style of motorcycle with an up-right riding position, with handle bars close enough to the rider not to neccesitate and agressive lean or reach.
Naked style: A motorcycle lacking plastic fairings, exposing the engine and transmission.
Twisties: When a road has many, tight and winding turns.
Lane splitting: Riding your motorcycle between the lanes or rows of slow moving cars or stopped traffic. California is the only state in the U.S. to officially legalize lane splitting.
Flickability: The ease at which a bike can be quickly change direction, leaning from one side to the other.

What Makes a Great City Motorcycle?

Surviving city traffic — mad cabbies, delivery trucks and frantic commuters — on a motorcycle requires patience, quick reflexes and steel nerves from a rider and it’s crucial the motorcycle itself can keep up. A compact, slender bike is a good place to start. Dodging potholes and traffic and going for narrow or closing gaps between cars is the norm when you’re cruising down a crowded avenue or side street. To be able to get any of that done with ease a good city motorcycle utilized that smaller silhouette by being lightweight and flickakble. Of course, bigger bikes are at a disadvantage there but if they can hide their weight with a nice and low center of gravity, heavier bikes can ride like they’re half the size.

Power is important but only if it’s in a usable spot in the rev range. There’s no use having chart-topping power and torque if you have to be flirt with the redline to see any of it. Motorcycles that work best on city streets have a healthy low- and mid-range — basically where the engine speed lives when you’re coming off light or traveling at traffic speeds.

When you are dipping and diving, weaving your way through town, your attention has to be at an all-time high. And not surprisingly, if you’re not physically comfortable on your bike, you’re going to be distracted. That’s not just the ergonomics of the seating position either. Although it is incredibly important that you’re not stuffing yourself onto the bike and cramping up your needs, riding comfort also stems from a great suspension setup. A super stiff suspension setup, where you can feel every rut, rock and crack can not only be bone shatteringly uncomfortable but can lead to a nervous, twitchy and unsettled bike.

It’s a tall order to build a bike that’s versatile enough to handle city streets and still have the capabilities to hop on the highway to get out of town. But when manufacturers get the formula right, a city-bound motorcycle can be an incredible asset in fighting back the daily grind.

Buying Guide

What’s in This Buying Guide

5 Best Urban Motorcycles of 2018

Best All-Around Commuter: 2018 Ducati Monster 821



In the Ducati Monster lineup, the 821 risked falling into obscurity as the middle child. The 797 is prized as the approachable, entry-level Ducati since the Scrambler line spiraled off into its own sub-brand. The Monster 1200 might have a near identical design to the little 797, but if you look closer, it’s a tech-laden superbike with no fairings and serious power. Instead of being a slightly bigger version of the 797, the 821 borrows supersport-level tech from the 1200 and brings it down to an approachable level. It gets the best of all worlds — the controllable and lightweight nature of the 797, plus a little extra shove from the engine and the top-of-the-line tech and control systems from the 1200. And it costs just over $11,000.

Who It’s For: The commuter who doesn’t need the power of a bigger engine, but wants the tech that seemingly only the bigger, more expensive bikes get.

What’s Good: “For some, and understandably so, the 147-horsepower Monster 1200 may prove to be too much bike and the 797 too small and rudimentary. The 821 comes in as the Goldilocks option: it utilizes the same frame, brakes, tank and headlight, the beautiful if intricate, color TFT instrument display and traction control and ride mode system as the more expensive 1200 — but delivers it all in a much more manageable, affordable package. That seems to be the magic of the Monster. The Scrambler may be its own sub-brand, but the Monster has its own following under the larger Ducati umbrella. It offers the same styling with different levels of performance, attracting a wider array of riders. It succeeds with an architecture Ducati got right the first time and has simply fined tuned over the years in small, minute increments like Porsche has done with the 911.” – Bryan Campbell

What to Watch Out For: The term ‘all-new’ for 2018 has to be used loosely. “The engine in the new 821 is the same 821cc Testastretta L-Twin engine from the outgoing model but gets a host of modern hardware from the bigger, more technologically advanced 1200. Looking at the 797 and the 821 side-by-side, you might say they’re both entry-level models; if the 797 is the base model, with no options ticked, the 821 is the upgraded sport package. – Bryan Campbell

Value: There are very few other bikes at this price point with this much technology on board, though that much tech is becoming increasingly more common. Aside from the power deficit and the yellow paint job option, the 821 is incredibly similar to its big brother, the Monster 1200 — a bike that starts around $17,000.

Design: “Ducati’s Monster married a superbike engine to a Super Sport frame and created somewhat of a new genre with the “naked” sportbike — a modern cafe racer of sorts. It was an undeniable hit. It was different. It was beautiful. It could handle the canyon roads as well as a race bike could tackle the track and it came with three different engine options: the M600, M750, and M900. Until now, we’ve had the all-new Monster 1200 and 797; and now, the latest update: the middleweight 821. For 2018, in keeping with tradition, Ducati brought its iconic, entry-level roadster into the modern era with an incredibly minimalistic approach.” – Bryan Campbell

Verdict: “The 821 certainly isn’t a paradigm shift in the Monster universe, but what it gets right is bringing upper-echelon sportbike technology within the grasp of new riders — or riders not interested in spending nearly $18,000 for what should be standard on any modern sport bike.” – Bryan Campbell

What Others Are Saying:
“Stylish yet utilitarian, practical yet exciting, thoroughly modern but consciously linked to its glorious past, the 821, like Italy itself, blends opposing forces in a harmonious whole, forging its own identity in the process. The 821 isn’t just the Monster 1200’s little sibling. It’s a user-friendly package suitable for less experienced riders, but it’s also competent and engaging in ways that appeal to riders looking for a motorcycle distinguished, not by a single dominant sensation, but by the parity of its parts in pursuit of motorcycling bliss.” – Cycle World

“By far the biggest change, though, is to the electronics, and this comes in two parts. First, the old, letterbox-esque LCD dashboard has been consigned to the trash can in favor of a thoroughly modern color TFT display. Second, Ducati have thrown a full-on electronics package as standard at the 821 and that means full ride-by-wire with 8-level configurable traction control, three-level configurable ABS, and three engine maps.” – Ride Apart

“In the end, I think the new Monster would make a fantastic and stylish first Ducati for any rider with more than six months of riding experience under their belt. Ducati wasn’t B.S.-ing when it claimed the new 821 is the “Best Balanced Monster.” – Motorcycle.com

Engine: 821cc L-Twin
Horsepower: 109
Torque: 63 lb-ft
Price: $11,995

Best Value Commuter: 2017/18 Kawasaki Z650



In the middle-weight naked bike category, the bikes are so closely matched that any scrutiny has to be done under a microscope. Pricing is all evenly matched, though the Kawi is one of the more affordable options compared to its Japanese rivals (even on the ABS model at $7,399) and also edges out the competition on styling with lively pearl white plastics and an electric green trellis frame. Where the Z650 really shines is under power in the mid-range, right where you need it for passing traffic in day-to-day commuter traffic.

Who It’s For: The rider who wants to save a money rather than shell out for the absolute best in class but still wants to enjoy tight and twisty back roads on the way home from work.

What’s Good: “Team Green developed this bike as the bigger brother of their own monkey-bike, the Z125 Pro. That means power took a backseat to flickability during development. Which is why Kawi only breathed on their tried-and-tested 649cc parallel-twin engine, opting to smooth out delivery and provide grunt where it was needed most — in the mid-range.” — Matt Neundorf

What to Watch Out For: To be a better bike for a wider audience, Kawasaki set up the front forks more lightly sprung than usual. It makes the bike more user-friendly to novice riders but aggressive riders might overdo it and find the front end diving under hard braking.

Value: For a modern, naked sports bike to have this level performance and a $6,999 price tag hanging off the bars, it’s a bargain.

Verdict: “You feel this as soon as you settle into the saddle. During stop-and-go stints in downtown Santa Monica, there were no struggles to stand flat-foot at lights, and the bike never felt like it could get away from me. The revised chassis geometry and slim, straight bars make 90-degree, grid-street negotiations a breeze, meaning this thing will do well for urban commuters too.” — Matt Neundorf

What Others Are Saying:
“In all, the Z650 satisfies nearly all of the prerequisites for an affordable, mid-level, sport-inspired machine. In terms of performance, nearly all of the systems found on the Z650 have massive amounts of potential to take a rider with little to no experience, and allow for a great deal of maturation to take place; a rider can develop their skills for a good while, before stepping to the next rung on the proverbial ladder.” – Ultimate Motorcycling

“As it stands, the bike is a great addition to the Z family, and proof of what Kawasaki has learned from years spent with the Z1000 and Z800 (both of which will be replaced by the Z900 for 2017). And it’s a great option for those naked bike lovers who’ve been waiting for a mid-displacement twin with Team Green badges on its side.” – Cycle World

Engine: 649cc parallel twin
Horsepower: 63
Torque: 42 lb-ft
Price: $6,999

Best Big Engine Bike: 2018 Ducati Multistrada



As far as styling and sound go, the Multistrada can be polarizing. What’s not up for debate, though, is how well the big adventure sport bike rides and tackles turns. The secret is the phenomenal Skyhook semi-active suspension and the clever way Ducati engineers hid the bulk of the Multistrada’s 518 pounds. It has the looks of an adventure bike, but when you start to flick the ‘Strada back and forth, navigating traffic and city streets, it’s easy to forget it can handle a mountain pass or two as well.

Who It’s For: The long distance commuter.

What’s Good: “The high-visibility LED graphic display makes swapping riding modes and adjusting suspension settings a simple task, displaying them in simple, visual terms. With a dry weight of 467 pounds, the Multistrada 1260 feels light and agile, albeit a bit tall (seat height is adjustable from 32.5-33.3 in), which makes maneuvering the bike in and out of parking spaces somewhat difficult if you’re a shorter rider.” — Justin Coffey

What to Watch Out For: “Don’t expect to take the new 1260 off-road, as its 17-inch cast Marchesini wheels are more adept at eating up the asphalt than dirt.” — Justin Coffey

Value: The sports-adventure bike category is a tough one to navigate — nearly every manufacturer offers one at this point and they’re all similarly priced. The Ducati, though, has style to go with its tech and performance.

Design: The Multistrada 1260 feels much like the outgoing 1200cc model. Riding position stays the same – upright, comfortable, with wide handlebars and ample wind protection thanks to the on-the-fly adjustable windscreen. With the longer wheelbase, the new 1260 is more confident in corners, more noticeably so in the faster, sweeping curves on the island of Gran Canaria. — Justin Coffee

Verdict: “Ducati’s Multistrada was designed to offer the owner a variety of options. From taking the long way home to riding the length of South America, the Multistrada is capable of many tasks, although it excels at making twisty (paved) roads disappear into the distance. Locking luggage comes standard (optional aluminum panniers are available from Touratech), as do heated grips, keyless ignition, a tire pressure monitoring system and a quick-shift function (clutch-less up- and downshifts, available on the S and Pikes Peak models). With its upright riding position and multiple ride modes, the new 1260 can transform from a docile urban commuter to an aggressive sport-touring machine with the push of a few buttons.” — Justin Coffey

What Others Are Saying:
“So much of what has made the Multistrada a popular machine since 2010 is captured wholly in the new 1260. The engine is the biggest improvement. Ducati claims six additional ponies over the 1200, but it doesn’t really feel faster. The longer wheelbase makes it less prone to wheelie, I’m sure—mostly it’s how linear the power delivery is that made me smile. It’s happy to lug around town, and has a fat midrange that won’t disappoint.” – Cycle World

“The handling of the Multistrada 1260 is superb for a motorcycle of its size. At a claimed 511 lbs wet and with a 62.4-inch wheelbase, I was pleasantly impressed with how precise and light the front end felt and how quickly the entire motorcycle could be flicked from side to side.” – Motorcycle.com

Engine: 1262 90-degree L-twin
Horsepower: 158
Torque: 95.5 lb-ft
Price: $18,695+

Most Stylish: 2018 BMW R NineT Urban G/S



The heritage line at BMW is a tad confusing. The R NineT that launched the line, though it’s a pretty bike, at $15,000 seems rather tame. It does have the technology and power to warrant a price tag around that limit, but the Urban G/S not only looks miles better, it’s more affordable as well. Granted, though it’s more pared down, tech-wise, it still handles just as well as the R Nine T its based on. A Dakar racer it is not, but while weaving through traffic downtown few things look cooler.

Who It’s For: The rider who wants iconic style and design cues blended into a modern BMW.

What’s Good: “Calling it a new model is a touch misleading, though, because it’s essentially just a restyled R nineT Scrambler — except better looking. A high front fender, nose fairing and the iconic combination of red seat and blue tank graphics over a white paint job bring out the best in the R NineT’s styling. The exhaust differs from the Scrambler’s as well, but the rest of the running gear — like the compact analog-digital combo speedo — is identical. It even comes standard with the Scrambler’s alloy wheels, but the optional spoked wheels (pictured) are the ones you want. As a styling exercise, there’s no doubt the Urban G/S is a home run.” – Wesley Reyneke

What to Watch Out For: Where the original G/S that this bike takes most of its inspiration from was known for dominating Dakar, the Urban G/S is not as off-road savvy. It has a few design touches here and there that would help it do better on a dirt than the R NineT it’s based on, but for the most part, it’s just that: design touches.

Value: It might be a slightly paired down version of the more expensive R NineT, but there’s no doubting it looks better. Saving around $3,000 doesn’t hurt either.

Design: “The Urban G/S’s upright ergonomics make it all-day comfortable, but you’ll eventually pine for a cushier saddle, if you do find yourself in the saddle. Its 485-pound form factor won’t give you supermoto-like levels of handling, but the low center of gravity makes it relatively easy to muscle through turns. It’s a deceptively compact motorcycle.” – Wesley Reyneke

Verdict: “The Urban G/S does have incredible potential to be customized beautifully, to be made unique, to be made your own. If customization isn’t your thing, that shouldn’t turn you away. Out of the box, the Urban G/S is a great-looking and well-performing motorcycle. Even if you won’t actually race across the desert with it, it’ll make you feel like you can.” – Wesley Reyneke

What Others Are Saying:
“The heritage the Urban G/S pays tribute to is reminiscent of the old R80 G/S, a motorcycle that basically invented the adventure-touring category. In its time, dirt bikes were lightweight, single-cylinder machines. The original G/S was a street bike fitted for off-pavement duty, a motorcycle made for exploring. The modern version, the Urban G/S, really is no different..” – Revzilla

“The thing is, while none of the other models have really struck my fancy, I really like the R NineT Urban G/S. BMW seemed more willing to admit the Urban G/S is not an adventure bike but a daily bike for people who loved that first adventure bike and who are moved by the styling..” – Cycle World

Engine: air- and oil-cooled 1,170cc flat-twin
Horsepower: 110
Torque: 85 lb-ft
Price: $12,995

Best All-Electric Option: 2018 Zero DS ZF13.0 +POWER TANK



There’s an argument to be made that motorcyclists have a better understanding of torque than most. Sitting so close to the fulcrum point at the wheel, with any amount of twist from the engine you can easily feel the forces at work. Now consider that one of the defining characteristics of electric vehicles is their maximum torque is available from zero RPM — full power can be instantaneous and available throughout the rev range. When you need to make a last minute pass or get ahead of traffic off the line, an electric motorcycle can spoil a rider. The Zero DS ZF13.0 +POWER TANK is admittedly on the expensive side for the bike that it looks like, however, having 188 miles per charge is a mileage stat not many other bikes can boast. Efficiency is the Zero DS ZF13.0 +POWER TANK, but the way it sends power to the rear wheel is addictive and a great way to spice up any commute.

Who It’s For: The eco-concsious commuter who has a taste for neo-futurism and appreciates that quality power doesn’t mean paying through the teeth at the pump.

What’s Good: Even without the Power Tank option added, the DS gets better city mileage than almost any other bike in its price bracket or power class. Spring for the Power Pack and the DS ZF13.0 increases its range from 147 miles to 188 miles. In other words, more than enough to stifle any lingering range anxiety.

What to Watch Out For: You’re paying for the battery performance, technology and capabilities. Where the Zero falls short is the overall refinement. The plastics seem to be on the cheaper side of the spectrum. But if you can look past that, the DS’s 188-mile range makes it an incredible commuter.

Value: As mentioned, the plastics and overall refinement of the Zero DS falls a tad short, but the better range and money saved at the pump is really why you’re buying this. It’s no electric-assist pedal bike either. Aside from the lack of exhaust note, this is a genuine motorcycle and should be looked at as such. Not many other motorcycles at this price point can claim the same endurance.

Design: The DS design lands somewhere in the gray area between the dirt world and sports standard city bike. That’s not necessarily a bad thing — giving off the peppy character of a scrambler or dual sport while retaining the practicality and comfort of a city bike helps the DS stand out. Oddly, its the complete lack of noise as you ride by that catches the attention of most.

Verdict: There’s a lot to go back and forth on with electric bikes — the lack of sound, the range anxiety, the lack of gears or on some, the pointless gears. But the DS can handle corners well enough (despite being 457-lbs) and will go further than anything else you have in your garage on two wheels. Not to mention it’s one fewer reason to vist the gas station and give them money.

What Others Are Saying:
“Basically, with some cute bodywork and clubman bars, this bike would be the perfect scrambler. Like all Zero motorcycles, it’s best as your daily commuter, but if you really need to do those 100-mile Sundays in the canyons, or just have a long distance commute, there’s always the power tank, which gives it an additional 25 miles at Highway/City combined. That 25 miles of range comes at a price of $2,695 and 44 lbs of added weight.” – Clean Technica

“Zero DS is pleasurable in virtually any riding environment. It’s not your run of the mill electric bicycle “wannabe” motorcycle, but the real deal. If there were a negative issue, it would be that it’s so quiet that other motorists are often unaware of your presence, requiring extra vigilance on your part..” – The Fast Lane Car

Power: Lithium-ion Cell Zero Force Battery
Horsepower: 60
Torque: 81 lb-ft
Price: $16,890
The Best SUVs Under $50,000

Choosing one among the endless many is no easy task. Moreover, since the average price for an SUV 2017 was just under $40,000, it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. To cover all the bases, we bumped the budget up to $50,000 and chose the best new SUVs you can buy in 2018. Read the Story

Concept: BMW M8 Gran Coupe

With the rise in popularity of sleek, streamlined four-door coupes, BMW responds by revealing a concept to compete in the 4-door sports luxury segment.

Sporting the ‘Gran Coupe’ moniker, the BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe debuted in Geneva Motor Show with a slight glimpse of what the future holds for BMW.

With a more aggressive design language, the silhouette that the M8 has revealed a lot of where the company wants to go: masculine, very upfront almost bull-like nose, and a sleeker backside. It pulls off a sexier look than the more contemporary rivals like the Audi 7-series, or the S-Class Coupe… But with more doors.

Don’t ask us how these segments work because we’re just as confused as you are. While these are concept cars, we hope that the car goes into production with the same dichromatic paintwork called ‘Salève Vert’. I think that means a shade of green.

BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe Iced

BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe IcedWhat’s funny are the stock photos look to be a nighttime rendezvous on top of a frozen lake, so that means that the M8 concept is cooler than what you have? Or a nod to James Bond and Die Another Day?

What’s probably going to happen is it will definitely have a Gran-Turismo vibe so it’ll have an old-school automatic transmission rather than the jolting DSG dual-clutch, maybe XDrive, and cross fingers, working quad exhausts(!)

Here’s to hoping our prayers get answered. Are you listening, Bavaria?!

The 5 Best BMW M3’s of All Time

Certain car brands have their typical stereotypes: Volvo is known for their world-renowned safety; Volkswagen is synonymous with ‘stance’ or the excessively lowered suspension lifestyle, and Subaru owners love to vape.

In the European car world, one brand has the reputation of being ‘The Driver’s Car’ and it’s in a lovely place called Bavaria… Wherever that is. Locally known as ‘Bayerische Motoren Werke’, we enthusiasts are more familiar with their acronym: BMW.

That honour was earned through the desire of destroying the competition and in turn, created one of the best cars in modern history: The BMW M3. Built because of an eligibility rule, BMW set forth in becoming the greatest German car in motorsport, even if there were risks that it would flop in sales. Thankfully, it didn’t, and a legend was born.

So with that in mind, let us now educate you and relive the history of greatness. Here are the best M3 cars of all time.

E36 (1990 to 2000)

E36

E36

The second iteration of the M3 brought classiness and refinement that the first generation didn’t have (more on the first generation later on).

The reason why the E36 is the 5th best M3 is that compared to the entire lineage, it didn’t look that good. Sure, it brought the 3.0L inline-six engine to the world and it was drastically different from the first M3, but it looks awkward, bulky, and out of place, especially compared to the later models. It was a step in the right direction, but it was in need of refinement.

We think it’s best that we say our thanks to the E36 and quickly move on.

E90/92/93 (2007 – 2013)

E90/92/93

E90/92/93

The mid-2000s brought the best in companies: the world gave birth to the Audi S4, the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG, and the E90 BMW M3. This particular generation had a delicious, buttery, high-revving S65 V8 engine. Producing 414bhp, it loves to ride the redline and asks for more.

Even though it had a chunky V8 at the front, the balance was poised and had precise steering compared to the competition.

In a famous Top Gear episode, Richard Hammond picked the BMW M3 and crushed the competition around the track as the Audi was prone to AWD understeer, and the C63 AMG was just too much to handle around the bends. The BMW was a perfect mix of power and handling, which were backed up by results.

The looks were mixed, but it looks way better than the E36 and considering it was created at the same era as the (in)famous ‘Bangle Butt’, we think that the E90 got lucky on this one. The chassis code was dependent on the body-style with the sedan, cabriolet, and wagon having their own codes, respectively. It may be confusing, but it’s nothing compared to what’s coming later on.

This generation stepped up from the plucky inline-six it had before and has a modern silhouette that still looks new a decade later. As we move further up into the echelon, however, the real legends emerge and are timeless classics.

E30 (1985–1992)

E30

E30

For the die-hard fans, bet you didn’t expect this coming? I can feel the comment box lighting up. But let us create some controversy!

Yes, the E30 is the genesis for one of the greatest sports car in the world. The 1985 3-series was rebuilt inside and out to defeat the Mercedes 190E in DTM or the German Touring Car series. Because of homologation, BMW had to create a roadworthy version of the M3 racing car to compete and they did it in a spectacular fashion. BMW made mincemeat out of Mercedes in DTM and ruled British Touring Car, and much other racing series. The E30 M3 was created out of necessity and it was a great success.

It’s not the best because of the spartan nature it presented: it was a pure race car, and nothing else. For the purists, it’s the best M3 but the generations that are left in this article will definitely put up a fight to be known as better than grandpa.

F80 (2014 – Present)

F80

F80

Alright, so here’s where the real fun begins. So the F80 replaced the V8 road-chomper that we all know was the E90 series.

Due to changing times and emissions regulations, the V8 was no more and we ushered in a new era of forced induction with a twin-turbo inline six. Complete with a body redesign, this was the new design language for BMW’s future. It is paving the way for the future generations but still remembering their heritage, continually being known as ‘The Driver’s Car’.

The F80 design looks absolutely stunning and the twin-turbo setup produces more power than the V8 it replaced while using less fuel. It is truly the best of both worlds, but be careful if you’re a wealthy socialite and ordering your first BMW M3 coupe on the phone because that doesn’t exist!

What? What do you mean?

Well, to accompany the new design language, BMW also overhauled their model lineup in an elegantly confusing fashion. Let the great people at Cartelligent.com demonstrate:

BMW currently assembles its lineup into 10 distinct groupings. The sportier coupe-style are designated by even numbers (2 Series, 4 Series and 6 Series) while the sedan-style models are given odd numbers (3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series):

  • 2 Series – A smaller two-door model available as either a coupe or convertible
  • 3 Series – A compact four-door model available as a sedan, sports wagon or Gran Turismo
  • 4 Series – A compact coupe-style model available as either a two-door coupe or convertible or a four-door Gran Coupe
  • 5 Series – A mid-size four-door model available as a sedan or Gran Turismo
  • 6 Series – A mid-size two-door model available as a two-door coupe or convertible, or a four-door Gran Coupe or ALPINA Gran Coupe
  • 7 Series – A full-size four-door model available as a sedan or ALPINA sedan

So what you really want is the new BMW M4. Unless you want a 4-door, then you can get the M3. Or maybe a gran coupe 4-series instead because it comes with 4-doors?

E46 (2000–2006)

E46

E46

So now, we have reached the top: The King of the Mountain. The bold claim of being the best M3. Ever.

Produced to replace the awkward E36, the E46 ruled the sports world for six years in a land that had bland and subpar competition: The B5/B6 Audi S4 had a lot of engine issues especially with the V8 variety, and Mercedes W203 of the same vintage was garbage due to their partnership with Chrysler at the time.

The E46 was in a league of its own: it possessed the chiseled good looks that the E36 didn’t have and didn’t look bubbly like the E90. It had the inline-six that was lighter than the V8 and can be bought with the six-speed slushbox (don’t bother with the SMG transmission). It had mechanical steering and not a lot of electrical helpers or ‘nannies’ that the later generations had to have.

Other plus sides: It can be picked up for relatively cheap compared to E30 M3’s, which are car museum prices (might as well get a 993 Porsche, gasp!), and not dirt-cheap like E36 which attracts the crowd you don’t want to buy a used car from. The F80 is getting high at prices after options, while the E90 M3 is slightly more expensive used compared to an E46.

It was more advanced than the E30 that came before it, but not as bloated as their successors. It was the perfect mix of luxury and raw driving purity. It had the best of both worlds, and that’s why it’s the best one.

Sx-Z | 2012 Pebble Beach Concept Cars

GALLERY: 2012 Pebble Beach Concept Car Lawn Recap

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance showcases an introduction to some of the years best revealed production and concept cars.

If concepts and exotics are your thing, like they are ours, the Concept Car Lawn is the place to be and see the latest concepts.

Check out the gallery of this years Concept Car Lawn below.

Sx-Z | 2012 Pebble Beach Concept Cars

Sx-Z | 2012 Pebble Beach Concept Cars

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Sx-Z | BMW Celebrates 40 Years of BMW M-Power

VIDEO: BMW Celebrates 40 Years Of M Power

Sx-Z | BMW Celebrates 40 Years of BMW M-Power

BMW fans rejoice, 2012 marks 40 years of BMW M Power! Back in 1972, BMW brought together all of the company’s motor racing under one company and BMW Motorsport GmbH was born. The BMW subsidiary was built into a powerful race team by former driver and team boss, Jochen Neerpasch.

In 1978, a legend was introduced, the BMW M1 supercar, laying the foundation for M cars today.

In 1993, a new company name was needed to reflect upon the wider scopes of activity that the BMW subsidiary was exploring, including BMW M cars, BMW Individual vehicle customization and BMW Driver Training, birthing BMW M GmbH.

The M line has come a long way since then and now more than ever, the BMW has increased its performance and accessories and made M Power accessible to a wider audience. The future of the BMW M is something we can’t wait for!

Sx-Z | BMW Teases New Zagato Concept At Pebble Beach

OFFICIAL: BMW Teases New Zagato Concept At Pebble Beach

Sx-Z | BMW Teases New Zagato Concept At Pebble Beach

The glorious automotive heaven of Pebble Beach is underway and among the many debuts, BMW will be unveiling the new BMW Zagato concept that’s pictured above. The Zagato Coupe was first revealed earlier this year at Villa d’Este, seen in the gallery below, however, this time around we’ll get to see a new BMW-Zagato collaboration – in roadster form!

Sx-Z | BMW Zagato Coupe

Sx-Z | BMW Zagato Coupe

Sx-Z | BMW Zagato Coupe

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SPIED: Tweaked BMW Z4 Spotted

Sx-Z | BMW Z4 nip/tuck spotted

BMW added the addition of a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four as a refresh to the peppy little roadster, but the BMW Z4 has been spotted and with some new tweaks.

Autoblog reports that, “The only camouflage to be found on this prototype are on the headlamps, taillamps, and spaces where the side indicators would normally reside. For its mid-cycle enhancement, BMW will be incorporating the side indicators into the mirrors, and the camouflage at the fore and aft light clusters suggests that some new lamps will be incorporated into the design. Don’t expect too much to change at the rear, but up front, BMW’s “angel eyes” will likely take on a similar (read: squarer) shape akin to what’s available on the new 3 Series, trimmed with LED eyeliner.

We won’t rule out the possibility of some powertrain tweaks or perhaps even some massaging to the front fascia, but until we have any sort of hard evidence, rest assured this German roadster won’t be changing too much in its current lifecycle.”

Sx-Z | BMW Z4 nip/tuck spotted

Sx-Z | BMW Z4 nip/tuck spotted

Sx-Z | BMW Z4 nip/tuck spotted

Sx-Z | BMW Z4 nip/tuck spotted

Sx-Z | BMW Z4 nip/tuck spotted

SPIED: 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Lighter, faster, more powerful and more efficient than the current M3.

Rumor had it that the F82 M4 coupe had begun its public testing, and now that’s been confirmed by spies who spotted it for the first time in and around the BMW M Test Center at the Nurburgring!

Although the BMW prototype wears the typical mule camouflage, there’s still plenty to see. The camo mule caused little doubt that it is in fact the M version of the upcoming F32 4 Series coupe. Signature features could be spotted like the M quad exhausts, the flared fenders, signature blue M brakes, wide tires, and M6 steering wheel.

Specs

Exterior:
Front and rear fenders on the M4 coupe are significantly flared and stretched compared to the F32 4 Series prototypes
Rear flare is easy to spot, while the front is less conspicuous – a the gap in the front fender camouflage clearly shows the front fender as much wider than the rest of the side body.
Stretched fenders will accommodate a wider track for the M4 – vs the regular 4 Series
Sleeker version of the F30 3 Series front end
Sportier lights and grilles
M styled front bumper
Mirrors are from the F30 3 Series – for testing purposes only – final production mirrors will be sportier
Carbon Fiber Roof / Brakes

Interior
Shift paddles in the interior – optional or standard manual transmission
Steering wheel from the new M6

Powertrain
Powered by an inline 6 cylinder engine with multiple turbochargers
Engine output approximately 450 horsepower
Rumored reworked and reinforced N55 6-cylinder engine with a strengthened aluminium block with a heavily modified cylinder head
Induction technology will be completely new as will be the latest bi-vanos variable valve timing

The F82 M4 will most likely NOT be constructed extensively from carbon fiber (CFRP) as earlier reports had rumored. This next generation of M3/M4 had begun its development two years ago, which is said to have been too early to take advantage of BMW’s CFRP developments.

Even without the CFRP construction, the M4’s new aluminum chassis, and aluminum and reinforced plastic body panels will make it lighter than the current M3 sedan and coupe.

The 2015 BMW M4 Coupe is looking to be introduced no earlier than late 2014.

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

Sx-Z | 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (F82)

VIDEO: BMW M1 Gets The Mean Green Treatment

This M1 is painted in Irie Green with 10mm spacers on rear wheels and Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilover suspension. Also has a lightweight titanium exhaust system.

Carwrapping by SchwabenFolia

Sx-Z | BMW E30 M3 vs. Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16

VIDEO: BMW E30 M3 vs. Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16

Motor Trend‘s Head to Head has featured, in this installment, the legendary BMW E30 M3 against it’s Cosworth-powered rival, the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16, hosted by Automobile Magazine‘s West Coast editor Jason Cammisa at Germany’s famed Nurburgring.

Which is the better car? And which car did Jason Cammisa like so much that it won a place in his garage?

OFFICIAL: 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe Limited Edition Announced

Sx-Z | 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe Limited Edition

BMW of North America has announced a limited edition of the popular M3 Coupe, dubbed the 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coup, as a farewell to one of the most exciting M3 Coupes to date. The special M3 is limited to 200 units and will go on sale in September with a U.S. base price of $70,100.

BMW dealerships report that European Delivery is not available on this limited edition M3.

The M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe is a collaboration between BMW and the historic Lime Rock Park racing circuit located in northwestern Connecticut owned by Skip Barber. The M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe will be “…a classic car for a classic track,” as described by Skip Barber.

Specs:
M3 Coupe, MY13
Fire Orange exterior paint from BMW Individual
Competition Package (ZCP) with Style 359M silver 19” wheels
Anthracite and Black cloth manual-adjustment seats with Nappa Leather trim
Inconel / titanium exhaust muffler
Carbon fiber front chin splitters
Carbon fiber rear deck spoiler (requires 326 rear spoiler delete)
Anthracite Alcantara steering wheel with flat-bottom design and blue index stripe
6-speed manual transmission
Carbon fiber roof panel
(4MY) Carbon leather trim

Optional Upgrades:
(ZPP) Premium Package
(ZCW) Cold Weather Package
(609) Navigation System
(2MK) M-DCT Transmission
(322) Comfort Access
(415) Power Rear Sunshade
(494) Heated Front Seats
(507) Rear Park Distance Control
(5AC) Automatic High Beams
(655) Satellite Radio with 1-year subscription
(6NR) BMW Apps
(752) BMW Individual Enhanced Premium Sound
Limited availability: Black Wheels (Competition Package, Style 359M)

Sx-Z | 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe Limited Edition

Sx-Z | 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe Limited Edition

Sx-Z | 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe Limited Edition

Sx-Z | 2013 BMW M3 Lime Rock Park Edition Coupe Limited Edition

BMW M5 – “Bullet” – High Performance Art

BMW M5 – “Bullet” – High Performance Art from BMWCanada
The world’s fastest sedan recreates super slow-motion bullet footage on a much grander scale. The result: High Performance Art.

New M Performance M3 & M5 for UK Market Revealed by BMW

I knew as soon as matte finishes started becoming popular that we would eventually see matte as a color upgrade and sure enough BMW is giving it to their super-limited M Performance Edition M3 and M5 coupes. Along with a bevy of under-the-hood upgrades, the M-series are sporting chilled hues of Frozen Red, Frozen White, and Frozen Blue, rolling out on cool matte black alloy rims. But it doesn’t stop there. The black leather interiors will also feature color-keyed accent stitching and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheels.

Unfortunately, BMW is only making 30 of each of the M Performance Editions for the British market which won’t be significant enough to bring the frozen matte awesomeness to mainstream.

Guess we’ll either have to get the matte finishes done ourselves or wait until BMW finally makes the “frozen” line available on a larger scale.

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The 2012 BMW M Festival

May 18th-20th, 2012 at the Nürburgring.

Genuine BMW M feeling while experiencing the BMW M Corso, expert interviews, garage tours and other highlights throughout the entire three days when you purchase your M Festival Package now. You’ll experience a close up the 40th 24h race and the 2nd M Festival at the Nürburgring.

As BMW says “It pays out to be fast.” The first to book their own BMW M cars will be guaranteed one of the much sought-after spots in the BMW M Corso.

Order your ticket for the Green Hell and become part of the fascinating BMW M community.

Visit The M Festival 2011 for images and info from last years festival.

The BMW M FestivalThe BMW M Festival