In Part 2 of a multi-part series, we continue to explore just exactly what our readers are looking for in an economical commuter bike. As always, the responses are posted just as we receive them, and have not been edited. Part 1 can be found here.

• hi there. this is in response to your question “what would you commute on.” firstly, i would have to premise my thoughts with the followingi am an american living in southen central europe, where
  1. lane splitting is very much part of the status quo, producing a natural leaning towards bikes that are small enough to get between our four-wheeled cousins when the going gets tight
  2. gas prices are even more astronomical than in the united states, making smaller bikes (think Rome, Paris) more attractive
  3. the north american (marketing) preoccupation with “bigger/faster is better” has not found its way into the mind of the European city motorcycler (rather the opposite), nor has the idea that the daily commute is somehow similar to armed conflict
  4. the concept of parking differs from that which rules in the states. Here (given national variations in the theme) an open space on the sidewalk will suffice, as will the arches and piazzas of national monuments and other buildings, and
  5. the occasional jaunt to the local alps/lago di garda/etc can’t be discounted.

  so with a quick-turning, gas-sipping, landstrassen-capable, light-ish bike in mind, here would be my preferences:

  1. a 600-650cc with EFI – kawasaki 650r, yamaha fazer 600-s2, yamaha mt-03, suzuki drz400sm (EFI?)
  2. kawasaki 250r
  3. vespa 250gt
  4. public transport so as to avoid burning fossil fuels altogether
• I have a short (10 minute) commute to work daily on urban roads/streets. I ride a Honda 599. I really don’t need a bike that will do 140mph. I would be perfectly happy with an electric if it had similar riding characteristics to my current bike. At the present time the right bike, the initial costs, and questions about battery longivity are major concerns.
• I commute on both an SV650 & a Concours 14. Both are great bikes. A Ninja 650R has nice ergos & decent wind protection. If it had ABS and the C14’s easily removable bags, it would be a great sport-tourer or commuter, but would go well past your $6k target. The return of the 450-500cc V- or parallel twin in a “standard/naked” style with the same options would also be welcome. Most bikes could be geared a bit taller, but there is so much focus on quarter-mile & roll-on times to the extent that that is unlikely to change until automatics become accepted. I enjoy the involvement of shifting, but believe automatics will be accepted fairly quickly once they start matching either the economy or performace of the manual transmissioned bikes.
• I recommend something like a KTM690SM.Great on gas, you can ride down medians in traffic jams, up over the curbs in a flash and off the clogged roads. Perfect commuting bike in the city. The single has enough hp for fun, sticks like glue in the corners and great gas mileage with the single cylinder.

  Could be why there’s one in my garage with a Warrior for weekend cruises with the wife. 🙂

• Although I’ve never owned or riden one, I’d have to say that the Honda Pacific Coast 800 (PC800) looks like the ideal commuter bike. I commute in Northern Virginia on my Yamaha FJR1300 or my Ducati S2R1000. I love the FJR for the weather protection and convenience of the side bags, and the Duc for the fact that it’s a Duc. A co-worker rides his PC800 exclusively, and I admire its combination of fairing, storage, and simplicity. Also, it’s like a scooter/motorcycle mashup: All the convenience of a scooter, yet it’s still a “real motorcycle” for seating, handling, etc. I wouldn’t advocate bringing it back unchanged; but with some updated styling, components, a new name, and a different marketing angle, now might be the time to offer something like the PC800 again.
• I would like to see more vehicles like the can am spyder that provide luggage space a way to sit in traffic comfortably and still fun and economical to operate.
• While I don’t like the bike much … runs wide on corner exit and has quite possibly the worst seat ever on a modern motorcycle … the Suzuki 650 V-Strom gets ridiculously good mileage and has a big gas tank so you don’t have to fill it up every other day. My ’02 Kawi ZR7S gets 50mpg on every tank. I see the need for some to have an automatic motorcycle. I don’t think the full bodied maxi-scooter is the way to go though. The first time someone switching from 4 wheels to 2 dumps one of those and sees the repair bill for the acres of plastic will send them back to the car. Would I buy one? Never, but I’m not the target demographic.
• I commute approximately 35 miles one-way, five days a week. Living in central Texas offers me the chance to ride my motorcycle nearly 9-10 months out of the year. Having bought, rode and sold 5 different motorcycles in the last 3 years, I have finally found a keeper. But, I must say that the best fuel economy I have ever seen was my 2001 Kawasaki zx-6r. Most days, I would average OVER 60 mpg! It was very modified with aftermarket goodies, such as factory pro jet kit, akrapovic exhaust, full race bodywork, pipercross filter, brisk spark plugs, etc. etc.Surprisingly, every mod I did seemed to net me more mpg. I would typically ride semi-tucked behind my double bubble, and usually only had apply light pressure to the throttle to keep rolling 70-75mph.

  While the bike was not ideal for long distance commuting, I could comfortably ride it an hour or so nonstop. My current motorcycle is a 2001 Aprilia RSV-R1000 Factory. While the mileage (and power) is better than my previous RC-51, it wont touch the mileage my old Kawi did.

  My tips for good MPG is:

  1. Aerodynamics (I have a degree in aerospace engineering) very important!
  2. Well lubed chain (520 or lightest available)
  3. Tire Pressure
  4. Weight

  I must stress Aero very much, because bikes do not have the same rolling energy that cars and trucks have, drag plays huge effect on MPG. Lowering the drag coefficient and reducing the overall weight of the bike –(and your body) will pay off at the pump.

• I would be less interested in an automatic transmission than I would be in a plug-in Hybrid engine that ran bio-diesel. The bike would be rugged and could accommodate saddlebags, etc.
• Having done commuting duties on everything from a 50cc Yamaha Zuma, Honda XL 500s, Kawasaki W650 and lastly my Bajaj Legend 150cc geared scooter, I’ll admit to an eclectic stable. However several necessities stand out:
  Most urban commuting requires at times highway/freeway stints; hence the need for sustainable speeds on these roads.
  Where white line, or lane sharing is either allowed, permitted or attempted; a narrow profile two wheeler is preferred.
  Once you’ve arrived, I find that in a city like New York City where parking is a catch 22 situation, the ubiquity and invisibility of whatever one rides is key. I’m currently considering between a Kymco People S250 and a Buell Blast; not for everyone…but each with it’s virtues in my demographic.

  I’d ultimately love the ease, low seat height, and carrying capacity of a scooter, but with the speed, slimness and suspension gobbling capability of a dual sport. If they build it, I will come!

• In American society where bigger is usually associated with better would run contrary to a good commuting motorcycle or scooter. So personal preferences would have to change. However, if I wanted a good commuting two wheeled contraption, to me luggage, ease of maintenance and protection from the elements would be three highest items on the priority list. And it should have good performance up to at least 80 to 90 mph to provide the flexibility to avoid the cagers who often don’t see us. So if I was able to shift out of the bigger is better mentality I would imagine something like a mini-goldwing with a cc displacement of between 500 and 800. Something like the cult classic PC800 comes to mind. It had good weather protection, was virtually maintenance free (hydraulic lifters and shaft drive), along with very good storage in it’s “trunk’. For novice riders, or those who do not desire a clutch, a CV transmission as is found on a Suzuki Burgman would work.
• Nothing else needs to be built. Just ride it.
• It is not what they should build but simply to bring some of the better choice smaller cc bikes to the states. It is nice to see the Ninja 250 finally get an update but how about all the other manufacturers that have small cc options elsewhere? I’ve considered a scooter simply because these options are not available but yes I’d much rather have a 250cc sportbike that I can have fun with in addition to commuting.
• I’m not sure a motorcycle labeled as a commuter would sell in this country. In various shapes and styles I think it’s been done before. For a huge majority here motorcycles are exhilarating toys that get us from point A to point B with fun..at least until the weather turns foul.When it comes to fuel savings people at times act irrationally. We’ve all seen or heard about those that will drive all over seeking the lowest cost gas only to use and spend more doing so. Some will trade in their larger vehicles which use extra fuel and buy economy cars as soon as gas prices initially rise only a few cents, thus incurring the extra cost of a new vehicle. Some will buy hybrids or diesels (in many cases) but would need to own and drive the car for a number of years to recoup the initial cost of the car itself.

  I think any motorcycle is a commuter motorcycle. They use less room on the roadways, can use HOV lanes in most states and in the process can save some fuel. But most of also have a fully insured and gas-hungry car or two at home also. I don’t think the issue is as simple as using less fuel.

• If it is just for comuting then Honda already has it, the VLX 600. This little bike will get 80 mpg between 50-55mph and looks good too.
• They optimal commuters already exist in my opinion. They are the street-biased adventure bikes which happen to also be one of the fastest growing niches lately. The legendary R1200GS, the new Tiger 1050, KTM Adventure, KLR650, the new BMW F800s, Moto Guzzi Stelvio, Moto Morini’s Granpasso.The ultimate commuter obviously needs plenty of car-like storage and carry capability, plus prodigious torque. Commuting isn’t about catering to a finicky engine. You want to just twist and go. I’d keep a traditional transmission however. Motorcyclists love to clutch a bike, therefore, it doesn’t have to be an automatic.

  The best will have convenient “standard” electrical hookups for heated clothing, GPS, etc. Maybe even a built-in docking bay (out of the weather) for i-pods, phones, etc.

  The bikes should be available with 17 or 19 inch front wheels and capable of carrying the latest fat sport tires out back or up front if the 17 inch wheel is chosen.

  If the manufacturers want to see even more of these bikes sold, then someone needs to design and market a line of true Business Casual moto-clothing. Not jeans. Many would-be commuters wont ride due to not feeling safe in their work slacks or khakis.

• Let’s see…so what you want is a low-maintenance, economical motorcycle with great storage. It appears to me that you are creating an argument to bring back the Honda PC800.
• A good commuter bike must have the following attributes in order to be functional
  • Comfortable, fairly upright riding position
  • Lockable storage
  • Descent fuel mileage – 40mpg or better
  • Lightweight
  • Easy/cheap to maintain

  There are several current models that will fit the bill, maybe if the manufacturers would offer lockable hard bags as an option or possible offer a touring version of the model, my choices would be.

  • Honda 599
  • Honda CBR600F4i
  • Kawasaki Ninja 650
  • Suzuki SV650/1000
  • Yamaha FZ6/FZ1

  Once upon a time all of the manufacturers offer smaller displacement touring models (Honda Silver Wing, PC800, Suzuki GS 650-100, etc.) I feel there still would be a market for the smaller/lighter baggers, without having to go the cruiser route.

• The manufacturers are already building great commuter bikes. I have a Kawasaki Ninja 250 and with fuel mileage of almost 70 mpg and an MSRP of only $3500 *BRAND NEW* that is pretty hard to beat. It is a little bit underpowered for heavy traffic but I also have a Suzuki SV 650 with a great riding position and gobs of low end torque for those duties. And even it gets close to 50 mpg.Some of the new supermoto bikes out there like the DRZ400SM are also great urban assault vehicles and frugal at the same time. The manufacturers aren’t the problem – the bikes are already out there in the showrooms.

  It’s just a matter of getting Joe Sixpack out of his comfort zone to trade in his Suburban for a bike.

• As a lifelong motorcycle commuter who has never bought a new motorcycle and currently rides a 20 year old “sales flop” Honda, I am probably the wrong demographic to advise the manufacturers in what to build. That said, there are a few glaring deficiencies in commuter motorcycle design that should be easy for manufacturers to address.Controls, seat height, and footpegs should be easily adjustable over a few inches each and a little help getting fitted should be part of the purchase, like buying a bicycle. A simple tip-over shouldn’t smash turn signals, mirrors, or crack cases or break off levers rendering the bike unrideable. Cargo space should at least be a factory option, enough lockable space to stash an Aerostich and a helmet. Braided steel brake lines should be standard, ABS should be an option on every bike. Traction control and slipper clutches are a good idea as well. Heated grips should be standard or an inexpensive option. Fairings should have a switchable duct that directs hot air towards the rider in the winter and away in the summer. Headlights should have daylight modulators and brake lights should be large, bright LEDs. A safety course should be included in the price of every new bike, with the option of beginner or experienced course left up to the rider. With FI the rider should be able to select an “economy mode” that returns at least 60 mpg.

• I really like the Ninja 250 for this idea. The only thing I would like to see is more options for springs to carry larger riders. I’m 275lbs with all my gear on. I have TL1000R for my own bike, but I’ve ridden a friend’s Ninja 250 a number of times. Heck, that thing goes nearly 100mph with me on it. It’s fun to ride around town and has enough punch to make passes. The only thing it needs for me to have a bit more fun would be suspension work.So in short, they should make suspension kits for small bikes.
• I do, I do! My daily ride is a 1978 Honda CB400 with Hondamatic.I’d like a 400 with all the power you pay for in a 400cc motorcycle, instead of the 250cc levels of power we actually got. Why Honda reduced the power AND recommended up shifting at 12 mph, I don’t quite understand. I can’t believe Honda HAD to reduce the horse power on a 400 since they had the 750 already that made rather more. There was no need to lose about 1/3 of the horses in the 400T to convert it to the 400A. I believe THAT was the cause of the lower sales, rather than an automatic.

  In a 400 CC, machine you need it to get off the line like a scalded cat, rather than an arthritic ape, so put it back in. In fact, make it a 500, Ok? I want a NEW CX500A version of the 1978 CB400A, shaft drive is a good choice for a commuter bike. Oh, and put a headlight on it that is worthy of the name, not that damned sealed beam with 35watts of “blinding” power, LED running lights, brake lights, turn signals, maybe even headlights if you can make it bright enough. But, in any case, I want a standard motorcycle, not a cruiser, or sport bike, or some strange variant super bike. Maybe Honda feels like labeling it as a commuter, rather than a standard, that’s fine, go ahead. And please, bring it to the US without a lot of crap on it that dilutes it so much that nobody can afford it or understand what its there for. Been disgusted with Honda for the last 30 years, so don’t screw this up.

• Yes I would! And I have been for over 6 years now, on my Aprilia SR50, Gas mileage is great! I am getting 110 miles to the gallon. I ride it as much as I can here in Wisconsin. It is fast enough for town top speed is about 50-55, but will out accelerate most every one who doesn’t care about getting beat by a scooter!
• A subject dear to my heart…I already commute by motorcycle, more precisely on a maxiscooter (Yamaha Majesty 400). Since I live in Wisconsin, where the last Ice Age has made a brief (we hope) comeback this winter, I don’t do so all year round, but the maxiscooter design provides such effective weather protection for so much of me — big windshield, good hand protection, legs and feet snuggled up behind the front shield — that the riding season is limited only by ice on the road and really lethal cold. The Yamaha also has enough underseat storage space for both a flip-face helmet and a fully loaded backpack, plus miscellaneous stuff in other compartments: I can park it, shove the helmet and jacket under the seat, and leave everything securely locked for the day. The drive train is ultra-simple: a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a belt, some pulleys, sliding weights, springs, and a centrifugal clutch — genuinely twist and go. The bike has performance equivalent to a sporty small sedan, and will do 75-80 mph on the expressway for hours without complaint, and with no wind-blast problems (see above). The single-cylinder engine is fuel-injected, and has never failed to start and run smoothly (except when the battery went dead).

  Its disadvantages have to do with the general unpopularity of this style of motorcycle in the United States: the nearest dealer is a 40-minute drive away, independent mechanics have never heard of it, almost any service requires fiddly removal and reinstallation of lots of body panels (which can then break), and I worry that Yamaha may give up entirely and “orphan” the thing. I have therefore thought about replacing it with a “real”motorcycle that would be more readily and less expensively serviced, and would (I confess) allow me in turn to consider myself a “real” motorcyclist. But reality keeps interfering: I have yet to identify any other two-wheeled vehicle that offers as much in terms of storage, intuitive operation (so I have more attention left over for safety), agility, economy (52 mpg on the highway), mechanical simplicity and reliability (so far), and general practicality. I had a brief fling with a Kawasaki Ninja 250 a while ago, and if Kawasaki updated the EX500 with fuel injection, a touring fairing, and generous provisions for storage, I’d be tempted. Ditto an reworked BMW airhead RT with less weight and a lower saddle. But they don’t exist, so for the moment I will remain invisible to the “real” motorcyclists and stay warm, dry, and on time getting to and from the office.

• You’ll be needing two categories of commuter bikes: city/congested and suburban. Each will require a specific set of attributes that would not be as suitable for the other.The city bike would be a standard, almost dual-sport configuration with an automatic/CVT/auto-clutch transmission. It should be taller to see around traffic and very nimble to handle the frequent lane changes and hazard avoidance maneuvers. It should also have longer travel suspension to handle pot-holes and debris, which one is bound to hit due to limited view of the road surface. Since speeds are relatively low, a torque laden single or twin of 350-500cc would probably be more than enough engine. Some form of bike and luggage security would also be an important feature.

  The suburban bike would focus more on comfort and convenience. Good weather protection and cruising performance in the 40-70 MPH range would be paramount. There would need to be enough power and mass to handle highway stints but not be overly burdensome around the office campus. There are many existing bikes and large scooters that can handle this role very well. There isn’t a tremendous selection but bikes like the Kawasaki Versys and Ninja 650, Suzuki V-Strom 650 and SV650 twins are typical. Luggage/storage would need to be a greater consideraton rather than aftermarket. A modern version of the Honda Silverwing or BMW R65 come to mind. There are also the large 400-650cc scooters that fit this niche and have all the storage you could need.

  The problem is that commuters such as myself tend to be a very practical bunch. We’re not out to buy the latest model every year or two. We find a bike that works and stick with it for many years. Though we ride through thick and thin and may be among the most loyal motorcyclists out there, we don’t spend a lot of money. The sport bike and cruiser communities probably outspend us by a huge margin. Is it any wonder the manufactures cater to these markets and not the commuter? This may all change with $4-$5 / gallon gas prices but I wonder if even that will be enough to generate new commuter specific models.

• For commuter purposes and high mpg in mind, how about a 500 – 800cc mildly-tuned naked bike with quick-detachable luggage available. Easy handling through commuter traffic and decent gas mileage and if it had fairly good suspension parts, it would be good in the twisties, also.
• First of all, I would need normal sized tires and wheels. Not scooter sized.Secondly, I want an upright riding position, like the R12R is , for example. Not feet forward , not hunched over like a sport bike either.

  Thirdly, the engine needs to be torquey. Minimum 80 hp. So I can get out of the way of 90 mph Semi’s and 100 mph Escalades trying to run me over.

  Fourth, I think if we are making this type of bike at 50 mpg now ( like a Ducati or Harley does, ) why can’t this get tweaked to 80 mpg with best engine electronics? Variable cylinder activations, sophisticated ignition advancements etc. I think if it was supercharged it could be like a 650 twin, like the SV650, but with some more room from a larger chassis.

  I guess this sounds like the Fischer bike, but not that Sports bike configuration.

  Absolutely not an automatic, as I have the FJR with that and I found out that I have spent most of my life learning how to use a clutch and gearbox and not only am I a lot better than the automatic, I actually like the control that the tradition system allows.

  Another way is to make an EcoMobile type vehicle that would be more frugal. The problem with that though is seeing well in daily traffic. You need to see over and through traffic in order to stay safe and ahead of what is coming up.

• Economical Commuter: What Should They Build? They built it : SV 650S. But I’m biased.
• Q: What should they build?A: An updated and revised Honda PC800.
• I already own an excellent commuter bike, a 1998 Honda Pacific Coast.It’s no state-of-the-art sportbike, but it goes, stops, and handles well enough for this old man and his wife. The luggage capacity (especially with an added Givi top case) gives us lots of room to pack for weekend trips, and its wraparound panels, self-adjusting valves, and good reliability means that I don’t need to spend much time cleaning or maintaining the machine. If Honda still made them, I would happily buy an 2009. PC, possibly with a bigger gas tank, a somewhat bigger engine, and a few other improvements. Lots of fellow PC owners feel the same way.

  But the Pacific Coast failed miserably for Honda, so only a few of us found our way to it. With few exceptions, the industry, at least as it’s represented by current US models, seems to be satisfied to deliver either supersports machines with performance useful only by expert riders on racetracks, or blinged-out cruisers that are more about form than function. These are wonderful machines, but they make little sense for someone whose primary needs are to get from here to there regularly and reliably with a maximum of stuff (groceries, laptop computers, or whatever else) and a minimum of fuss. Present- day scooters, including the larger-capacity models, address these needs, but they don’t seem to be that common in the traffic stream.

  And of course weather is an issue in much of the United States. Hard- core riders will happily bundle up and ride through snow, sleet, or whatever is out there, but if Mrs. Suburban Soccer Mom needs to get milk at the market on her way to pick up her daughter at piano practice, the chances are good she won’t choose her scooter if it’s rainy or cold out.

  As much as I love two-wheeled vehicles, I’m pretty sure that a small, safe car, with a good pricetag, adequate performance, and room for people and things, will continue to be the answer for most commuting needs. Bikes, at least in most of the US, will remain toys for most of us, rolled out at appropriate times but shoved aside when life intrudes.

• I would like to see an Fuel-Cell powered motorcycle similar to the ST1300, FJR1300, or Kaw Connie. You have plenty of wind protection for riding in cool weather, and luggage options for storing the groceries. They also look sporty and are comfy for the trip to work.
• For me, the ideal commuter bike would be lightweight, medium-sized, and have enough lockable storage space to be able to stop by the grocery store after work to pick up a few small things, while providing secure storage for my briefcase while I’m in the store. Heated grips for winter riding and a windscreen to keep the rain and cold at bay would be good, short-ish seat height as well. (Have you seen how tall the seat is on a KLR650? Holy cow!) It should have enough power to play on the freeway.Aside from those things, it should be able to be treated just like a car – left outside in rain, snow, heat, whatever, and start every time you hit the button. And like cars, it should require no regular maintenance outside of the standard consumables and regular oil changes. In other words, it should be an appliance, just a lot more fun than a Camry.
• Perhaps we should be asking what type of motorcycle addresses all of our current concerns, including high fuel economy, low emissions, and even one that due to simplicity of design, requires relatively fewer components and raw materials to manufacture. To me, the ideal choice would be a well designed, reasonably high performance (especially due to lower weight) super motard style single cylinder motorcycle. If the KLR 650 is a bit too adventure oriented, and the Suzuki 400SM a bit too focused as well, then perhaps something like a marriage of these two to result in the perfect street single with all the capability that one could ask for in a two wheeled commuter vehicle for the enthusiast.
  
• Response to article: For me, I would never drive a motorcycle with an automatic transmission. And scooters are strictly out of the question! I would however drive a Kawasaki 250R or 650R with some sport touring tires mounted for tread life…. I’ve also considered the Buell blast as a commuter since it gets 70MPG and has a nice riding feel. Ideally I’d love to see Kawasaki make a 250R styled bike with a 400cc engine for at or less than 4K that would get near 70MPG…
• What I would like to see as the future of transportation, including motorcycles, cars and everything in between, is the development of more Range Extended Electric Vehicles. These are vehicles that use stored electric power that can be taken right off your home gird for short duration travel. To solve the problem of eventual loss of power on those longer trips they have small combustion engines, but unlike hybrids these engines don’t create mechanical power to drive the wheels, but use their mechanical power to turn a generator and create more electric energy for use by the motors to turn the wheel(s), which is much more efficient. So Imagine any type of motorcycle you like that you can simply plug into your house at night and have enough juice to drive to work and back on one charge. And for those skeptics out there it costs pennies to charge modern batteries. Then when you need to go on that long tour through the back country you have a small tank of gas that is used to fuel your gas-sipping one-cylinder engine that generates enough power that one tank of gas can take you 250 miles or more! This solves so many problems. Cheaper transportation, reduced emissions, and reduces our dependence on foreign oil as well. And the greatest thing about it is that we can do it! We already have the technology!
• First of all, the ultra commuter should more resemble a motorcyle than a scooter to get most motorcyclist to even give it a look on showroom floors.It will need a place for a tank bag.
  The ideal ecco commuter should have built in luggage similar to a scooter, but think more like a Honda Pacifica.
  As for a transmission, manual should be standard (why take all the fun out of it) with an automatic as an option.

  It must have good torque if it’s going to spend alot of time in traffic, so I think a 600-700cc V-twin would be ideal.
  Final drive should be shaft or belt for low maintanence.

  Sixteen inch wheels with ABS for quick steering and worry free stopping.
  It should also come with great headlamps (preferably HID’s) and excellent auxiliary lighting like super bright LEDs that are easily seen by surrounding vehicles.

  The aero package should put the mirrors where they double as hand deflectors, ala BMW R1200RT. An adjustable windshield would be great, even if it’s manually operated.
  Heated seat and grips should be an option and an AM/FM radio could come standard with an optional mp3 player plug in.

  The price must be less than $8500 to be a truly viable option.

• I just had a new chain and sprockets put on my YZF600, and an oil change…$430 here in San Francisco.It’s not just fuel costs that keep motorcycling from being a clear and obvious choice for saving money when choosing a daily commute ride, it’s routine maintenance costs. Since it’s not likely shops are going to lower their $85-$115hr labor rates in this area any time soon, a truly economical bike would need to have a shaft drive, hydraulic values, and be able to get between 50-60mpg when ridden “normally”. That should not be difficult for manufacturers to achieve. In fact, some have bikes that are already close. Now also make seat heights and controls adjustable, wind protection good, and provide easy access to doing oil changes at home, and I’d say you’d be there. The problem: Motorcycles are not marketed here in the US as practical, commute vehicles. Until riders here are as concerned about saving money as they are about going fast, looking cool, and making lot’s of noise, you’re not going to see as many fun and practicle bikes being produced.
• I finally got my first street bike. It’s a UJM. Kawa ZR-7S. Used of course. I am using it several days a week to commute to work. It’s also fun to ride and the ergos are not so extreme as the supersport bikes. Like all “do most things” bikes, it’s a compromise. Not the fastest, quickest, sportiest, or best tourer. But not at the bottom in most catagories either.Trying to pigeon hole all bike riders into a one size fits all is not going to work well as we all tend to be quite individualistic. Hence all the different “niche” segments to the motorcycle market.

  I work in a large plant, so at any one time, there are probably 200 bikes parked at the facility. I thought I would see large numbers of niche specific bikes, for example, a disproportionate number of supersport bikes, or Harleys, or KLR650s, or………. You get the idea. Surprisingly, not so. There seems to be about an even distribution of just about all the genre’s represented. Nakeds, dual sports, sport tourers, cruisers, ujms, sport, supersport, scooters, and full dress touring bikes. I was surprised on the scooter part.

  So to answer your question, I don’t think there is an optimum commuter bike setup. Or doesn’t seem to be. Everyone seems to pick a bike they like, and meets their desires, or of a type/model that they can afford, and then commutes on it, rather than picking a bike with commuting to work as the intent of the optimization effort. I suspect the reason for this is the lack of funds for most folks to buy one of every type of bike that is optimized for a particular task that they might or will put their bike too. It would be nice to have a dirt bike for off road, full dress tourer for the long trips, supersport model for track day, etc. but for most folks, it simply a matter of only having the funds to buy one, and so they get what they are interested in, and press it into service in all areas of two wheeling endeavors rather than just the area that the bike was optimized for.

  I think if a manufacturer builds a bike focused tightly on just commuting only, they’ll be dissappointed in the sales results. Perhaps it’ll do ok there with you in So. Cal. as you have a very high population density and fairly moderate weather all year. And maybe that market alone is large enough to justify a focused model. The Honda Pacific Coast (if I recall correctly) was such a bike, I think. It didn’t make it in the market. Yet the VFR has been a model stalwart over the years. So evidently just commuting is not what is high on the list of “what do I want to do with this bike” activities when folks go and buy a bike. Their other interests come first, and commuting is just a necessary evil that the bike gets put to.

• In my opinion, the current range of motorcycles and scooters currently available in the U.S. already provides an excellent selection of machines for those searching for a dedicated commuter. Mid-sized scoots like the Suzuki Burgman 400 probably come the closest to hitting the sweet spot: more user friendly than 650cc scooters, more freeway capable than 50-250cc scooters, plus weather protection, lockable storage, power outlet for heated gear, etc, etc.If you have specialized needs, there are almost unlimited options… Cut and thrust, big city traffic? Get a small scooter or Ninja 250. Need to tackle bad pavement and dirt roads? Get a dual sport or adventure tourer (I’m currently lusting over the F800GS). Prefer performance? Get a 600-1000cc supersport. You get the idea. Any of these choices can be fitted and farkled with commuting/touring capabilities to rival those of scooters.

  What the U.S. really needs much more than additional motorcycle models (not that I would mind, the more the merrier) is additional legal and infrastructure support for two-wheeled commuters. Make lane-splitting legal throughout the U.S. (or at least in metro areas) and provide more dedicated motorcycle/scooter parking (preferably covered) in urban areas.

• Well there are plenty of good bikes already that fit this category, the missing link is factory luggage. My 2001 FZ1 with added luggage rack and hard trunk is a great commuter, and gets 42-45 in town. Something like an SV650, Vstrom 650, Kawasaki Verys (or what ever they call it), the FZ6, the Hornet 600 (if sold in the US) all fit that perfectly, but the factories need to offer hard bags as a low cost option. The aftermarket rack and bags on my FZ are great, but not everyone is going to search out a rack from 1 company, trunk from another and then put it all together. I think another category missing is a street single, the KLR650 is a great bike but is too high for many riders, and if you never take it off road you don’t need the clearance.