Yamaha’s tried-and-true TW200 has long been a favorite among riders, and the reception to our review of the 2023 edition proves that its staying power is strong. The simple mechanics, the retro look, the easy operation, the dual-sport versatility, and of course the sub-$5,000 price tag all make this a highly appealing package. It’s perfect for learners and beginners, a great utility machine, and a whole lot of fun around town. We thoroughly enjoyed our time aboard the TW200 and expect to continue to see this bike in Yamaha’s lineup for many years to come.

Our review of the V100 Mandello S from Moto Guzzi comes as no surprise to our top 10. The new sport-touring machine is a step in a more modern direction for the Italian marque, boasting a brand-new transverse-mounted 1,043cc V-twin engine, contemporary design aesthetic, and modern components. The model we rode was equipped with Öhlins semi-active EC 2.0 suspension, four ride modes, a smooth hydraulic clutch, and a TFT display that all put the Mandello S squarely in the “now,” along with features like heated grips, electronically adjustable windscreen, and a USB charging port. On the road the machine is agile for its weight and a lot of fun to ride. Guzzi definitely left some room for improvement, but overall the V100 Mandello S turned out to be an appealing bike that will turn heads for any rider who takes one out for a spin.

Oddball bikes always garner a crowd, and the 2023 Yamaha Niken GT is no exception. The three-wheeler got quite the upgrade and our ride in May of last year showed that improvements to the rear suspension, engine, and chassis all paid off. The bike offers substantial grip out front and the stiffer rear suspension now complements the confidence riders feel with the front, making the machine feel more planted and predictable than before. The engine revisions add more torque to the equation and the seamless quickshifter was a joy to use. Even though it takes some getting used to, the Nikken GT proved its purpose as a sport-touring alternative.

Like the TW200, the Kawasaki KLR650 is a long-standing model with a sizable fan base, so reviews always tend to get some traction. Plus, the platform rarely gets any major updates, so when upgrades actually do drop, folks are interested. Such is the case with our review of the 2023 KLR650 Adventure. The bike was given a refresh in 2022, with changes to the frame, bodywork, creature comforts, and fuel system. In Adventure trim, riders will also get fog lamps, hard cases, crashbars, a tank pad, and extra USB port. The changes proved to be worth the effort, with the bike noticeably more stable at highway speeds. The engine felt more lively as well. It remains a solid bike at a highly competitive price, particularly for riders who want a simply-built, do-it-all adventure motorcycle.

We spent two weeks aboard the 2023 BMW R 1250 RS and found it a highly competent sport-touring machine, with an emphasis on sport. The 1,254cc twin delivered when our tester wanted some excitement, however the sleek design of the bike wasn’t quite up to the touring task when weather turned sour. It’s a sophisticated motorcycle with a generous amount of standard electronic aids and plenty of optional upgrades. Sport-touring was one of the most popular segments among our readers in 2023, so it’s only fitting that this sport-focused touring platform makes the list of our most popular reviews of the year.

The 2023 Vespa GTS 300 blends style with function, sporting a classic look and modern features along with a 278cc single that is up to just about any around-town task you throw its way. We were once again reminded of the benefits of a solid scooter, from the available storage to the easy handling and effortless parking in dense urban environments. It’s all-day comfortable, and comes with traction control and a 4.3-inch TFT instrument display, a seamless CVT transmission, and plenty of charm. The $8,100 price tag did put some readers off, but for riders who want the classic aesthetic of a Vespa with practical performance characteristics, the GTS 300 is a good way to go.

We took a spin on the latest Teryx KRX 1000 and came back with a detailed review of the two-seat UTV. The machine is thoroughly enjoyable, easy to handle, and comfortable thanks to robust suspension and a thoughtful cockpit. Obviously it isn’t a motorcycle, but it does give non-riders the option of doing some open air, engine-powered exploring outdoors. Operation is essentially the same as driving a car, but the capabilities of the Teryx KRX 1000 go far beyond the limits of the latest Tercel.

Chinese-branded motorcycles always create controversy in the comments, and readers had some strong opinions on the Kove Moto FSE 450R, which we reviewed back in March. On the pro side, it’s an affordably priced rally motorcycle that stood up admirably to our tester’s rigors. Some elements can be improved, no doubt, such as the gearing, but all in all it proved to be one of the more enjoyable rides we experienced during the year. It’s a fairly simple platform, powered by a 450cc water-cooled single, with decent braking and suspension performance.

It’s clear by now that many of the top reviews of 2023 focused on outlier machines, and the Polaris Slingshot R is no exception. It’s not quite a motorcycle, not quite a car, but has proven to be a popular-enough platform to be a star among Polaris’ lineup of street-going Slingshot products. Improvements to venting helped to alleviate some of the engine heat issues in the cockpit we experienced on previous models, the brakes are stronger, and there’s no doubt that it offers a fun ride. On the other hand, suspension can still be improved and the price is prohibitive for most. Still, for those who can lay down the cash, the Polaris Slingshot R makes an undeniable statement.

Electric motorcycles still require a different mindset; they have a long way to go before they’re true competitors with gas-powered motorcycles. Our time spent with the Zero SR/F hammered that point home, from the range anxiety we felt on our out-and-back test, or the worry that cold temps would leave us in the lurch somewhere too far from home for comfort. But in the end, the SR/F is a notable machine with phenomenal torque, fantastic manners around town, and a definite spot in the powersports industry, even if it hasn’t yet cracked the code for comfortable touring.