The middleweight naked motorcycle category is fiercely competitive, with manufacturers constantly updating popular models and introducing exciting new bikes each year. For riders seeking raw thrills and unadulterated motorcycle experiences, the ‘naked’ style, with its exposed mechanics and aggressive stance, is incredibly appealing. Choosing from such a diverse and impressive selection can be challenging. This list narrows down the field to the top 10 ‘middleweight’ naked motorcycles hitting the market in 2025. We’ve focused on models that offer a blend of performance, style, and value, perfect for riders who appreciate the essence of motorcycling in its most exposed form.
Let’s dive into the list…
10. Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 | Price: £6,899
2025 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 648cc Parallel Twin | 46hp | 52.3Nm | 240kg (Kerb) | £6,899 |
Starting our countdown is the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650, a model recently featured in our Top 10 A2 Cruisers list. This bike made a strong impression during our recent review, becoming a firm favorite. Its blend of technology and specifications positions the Shotgun as a serious contender in the naked category for both full and A2 license holders.
Powered by the proven 648cc parallel-twin engine shared with the Interceptor and Continental GT, this engine delivers a manageable 46.4hp and 52.3Nm of torque at 5650rpm. This provides ample power for enjoyable rides without being overwhelming, making it a great option for various skill levels.
The Shotgun 650 pricing begins at £6,699 for the Sheet Metal Grey version, rising to £6,799 for Drill Green or Plasma Blue, and £6,899 for the premium Stencil White edition.
2025 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value and overall package
- Engine offers genuine character and usable grunt
Cons:
- Less powerful compared to some competitors on this list
- Brakes could be improved
9. Benelli Leoncino 800 | Price: £7,699
2025 Benelli Leoncino 800
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 754cc 4 Stroke | 76.2hp | 68Nm | 215kg (Kerb) | £7,699 |
Securing the ninth spot is the Benelli Leoncino 800, the largest member of the Leoncino family.
At its core, the Leoncino 800 features a 754cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder DOHC engine that produces a respectable 76.2hp at 9000 rpm and 68Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. While not the most powerful bike in this lineup, the Leoncino offers a more approachable and less aggressive power delivery, appealing to riders who prefer manageability.
The Leoncino 800 retains the signature Benelli styling cues, including the iconic ‘lion of Pesaro’ emblem on the front fender. This maintains a consistent family aesthetic across the Leoncino range, even as models evolve to meet emissions standards and market demands.
The 2025 Benelli Leoncino 800 is expected to be priced around £7,699, positioning it as a relatively affordable option within this competitive segment.
2025 Benelli Leoncino 800 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Striking aesthetics, one of the most visually appealing bikes here
- Comfortable and upright riding position
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 215kg
- Tech features are quite basic
8. Honda Hornet CB750 | Price: £7,299
2025 Honda CB750 Hornet
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 755cc Parallel Twin | 90hp | 74.4Nm | 215kg (Kerb) | £7,299 |
Eighth place goes to the Honda Hornet CB750, a bike we’ve thoroughly reviewed at BikeMatters.
The CB750 is the middle child in the Hornet family, fitting perfectly into the middleweight naked bike category. Its 755cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine delivers 90hp and 74.4Nm of peak torque at 7,000rpm. With ample torque available at slightly higher revs than some competitors, it remains user-friendly for less experienced riders.
Technology is a key highlight of the Hornet. It boasts selectable torque and wheelie control, throttle-by-wire, rider modes, and a customizable mode for adjusting power and engine braking. The CB750 Hornet is equipped with Nissin brakes and Showa SFF front forks, with an optional up/down quickshifter available for an additional £240.
For riders seeking even more power while retaining the Hornet’s aggressive styling, the Hornet 1000 has recently debuted in the UK market, receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews.
2025 Honda Hornet CB750 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally agile and responsive handling
- The engine is a standout performer
Cons:
- Non-adjustable suspension is a drawback
- Limited tech features compared to some rivals
7. Aprilia Tuono 457 | Price: £6,630
2025 Aprilia Tuono 457
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 457cc Twin Cylinder | 47hp | 43.5Nm | 159kg (Dry) | £6,630 |
Landing in seventh is the all-new Aprilia Tuono 457, another model significantly updated for 2025.
In terms of aesthetics, the Tuono 457 showcases Aprilia’s signature design with a triple full-LED headlight cluster, a small front spoiler, a low seat height, and a lightweight 159kg aluminum frame. These elements pay homage to the iconic Tuono 1000 R while delivering an impressive power-to-weight ratio, among the best in this category.
The bike is powered by a 457cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine with Ride-By-Wire throttle, producing 47.6hp and 43.5Nm of torque at 6,700rpm. This output makes it A2 license compliant, yet still provides enough performance to satisfy both A2 and full license holders.
Aprilia recently announced the 2025 Tuono 457 will be priced at £6,630, a slight increase from the 2024 model.
2025 Aprilia Tuono 457 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally lightweight, enhancing agility
- Striking and aggressive design
Cons:
- As an A2 compliant bike, power output is limited
- Priced slightly higher compared to some A2 competitors
6. Suzuki GSX-8S | Price: £8,299
2025 Suzuki GSX-8S
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 776cc Parallel Twin | 81hp | 78Nm | 202kg (Kerb) | £8,299 |
Number six on our list is the appealing Suzuki GSX-8S.
Introduced in 2023, the GSX-8S is the successor to the long-running SV650, featuring a brand-new engine and updated technology. It was awarded Best Naked Bike of the Year, earning its place on our list.
Powered by an 81hp, 776cc parallel-twin engine with a peak torque of 78Nm, the GSX-8S offers more power than its predecessor, though it remains a bit heavy at 202kg. Similar to the SV650, the GSX-8S delivers smooth and manageable performance, making it accessible for newer riders.
The GSX-8S comes equipped with rider modes, traction control, and an up/down quickshifter as standard. However, it enters the market at a slightly higher price point than some competitors, at £8,299.
2025 Suzuki GSX-8S Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally fun and engaging to ride
- Well-rounded and versatile package
Cons:
- Seat comfort could be improved, slightly firm
5. Moto Morini Corsaro | Price: £7,300
2025 Moto Morini Cossaro
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 749cc 90° V-twin | 96hp | 77Nm | 200kg (Kerb) | £7,300 |
At number five, we have the brand-new Moto Morini Corsaro!
This exciting new model is included due to Moto Morini’s impressive 2025 lineup of 10 bikes, aiming to make a significant impact on the European motorcycle market.
The Corsaro stands out with its potent 749cc, 90° V-twin cylinder engine producing a robust 96hp. Moto Morini positions this bike for riders seeking a blend of performance, distinctive style, and dynamic handling.
The Corsaro’s visual appeal is undeniable; it’s a true sport-style naked bike that looks as good as it performs. Pricing for the standard and sport editions is currently unconfirmed, but it’s predicted to be around £7,300.
2025 Moto Morini Corsaro Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Brand new and highly anticipated model
- Promises impressive specifications and performance
Cons:
- Many details and specifications are still unreleased
- Reliability and real-world performance are yet to be fully assessed
4. Kawasaki Z650 | Price: £6,999
2025 Kawasaki Z650
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 649cc Parallel Twin | 67hp | 64Nm | 188kg (Kerb) | £6,999 |
Moving to number four is the Kawasaki Z650, the middleweight representative of Kawasaki’s Z family.
Equipped with a 649cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine producing a capable 67hp, the Z650’s engine remains largely unchanged, with updates to meet Euro 5+ standards. The Z650 continues to be an excellent choice for riders stepping up to their first big bike.
Notable tech features include a new TFT color display with smartphone connectivity, Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), assist & slipper clutch, ABS braking, and rear back-link suspension.
For 2025, the Z650 is priced at £6,999 and available in three color options: metallic spark black/green, metallic spark black/red, and metallic dark grey/metallic spark black, with the iconic green being a standout choice.
2025 Kawasaki Z650 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly and approachable for new riders
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Styling can be considered somewhat understated compared to rivals
- Basic suspension setup may limit aggressive riding
3. Yamaha MT-07 | Price: £7,700
2025 Yamaha MT-07
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 689cc CP2 | 72hp | 68Nm | 188kg (Kerb) | £7,700 |
Entering our top three is a returning favorite from last year, the Yamaha MT-07.
Like several other models on this list, the all-new MT-07 receives significant updates for 2025. These include an assist and slipper clutch, optional Y-AMT (semi-automatic transmission), an updated 5-inch TFT screen, and redesigned fairings and styling.
The CP2 689cc liquid-cooled engine remains largely unchanged, delivering 72hp and 68Nm of torque at 6,500rpm, with slight adjustments to meet Euro 5+ emissions standards.
The MT-07 is an excellent entry point into the naked big-bike category, offering a balanced power delivery that is neither overwhelming nor underwhelming. Its rider-friendly nature has contributed to its long-standing popularity within Yamaha’s lineup, proving its enduring appeal.
2025 Yamaha MT-07 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fun and engaging hooligan spirit with ample torque
- Easy to ride and accessible for a wide range of riders, suitable A2 upgrade
Cons:
- Not the most affordable option, market position as ‘king of nakeds’ may be challenged
2. CF Moto 800NK SPORT | Price: £6,999
2025 CF Moto 800NK Sport
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 799cc 2 Cylinder | 95hp | 79Nm | 186kg (Kerb) | £6,999 |
In second place is the impressive CF Moto 800NK Sport!
The 800NK Sport is powered by a 799cc twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing a substantial 95hp and 79Nm of torque at 8000 rpm. This enables it to transition from a practical city commuter to a spirited open-road performer effortlessly. It’s also among the most powerful bikes on this list, appealing to riders prioritizing performance.
The inclusion of the CF Moto 800NK Sport is largely due to its impressive specification for a relatively new manufacturer. It comes standard with J.Juan brakes, KYB suspension, Bosch ABS, and a 5-inch TFT display.
Priced at £6,999 for the 2025 model year, the CF Moto 800NK Sport is also one of the more affordable high-specification options available.
2025 CF Moto 800NK Sport Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful and responsive engine
- Sharp and agile handling characteristics
Cons:
- Riding position may feel cramped for taller riders
- Rider aids are relatively limited
1. Triumph Speed Twin 900 | Price: £9,195
2025 Triumph Speed Twin 900
| Engine Size | Power | Torque | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 900cc Parallel Twin | 64hp | 80Nm | 216kg (Kerb) | £9,195 |
Topping our list at number 1 is the Triumph Speed Twin 900.
The 2025 Speed Twin 900 receives its most significant updates since its introduction to the Triumph lineup. These include a redesigned style and silhouette, featuring a new angular fuel tank with knee cutouts, new side panels, fuel injector covers, LED headlights, and indicators, differentiating it from other Triumph models like the T100.
The Speed Twin 900 utilizes the reliable 900cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, producing 64 hp and 80Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm. It has been slightly retuned to comply with Euro 5+ emissions regulations.
For riders seeking a visually stunning, retro-modern naked motorcycle, the 2025 Speed Twin 900 is available for £9,195 in three different color options.
2025 Triumph Speed Twin 900 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent blend of classic and contemporary design elements
- Strong and accessible mid-range torque
Cons:
- Power output is lower than some listed competitors
- Relatively small 12L fuel tank for a bike of this size
Special Mention | KTM 790 Duke
2025 KTM 790 Duke
Another motorcycle that narrowly missed our top ten but deserves recognition is the KTM 790 Duke.
Priced at £7,999, the 790 Duke offers a more affordable alternative to the 890 (due to its manufacturing location), while still packing a punch with its 799cc DOHC, 8-valve engine producing a healthy 105hp and 87Nm of torque.
Alongside its powerful engine, the 790 Duke is equipped with rider aids including three riding modes (sport, street, and track), MTC traction control, Bosch cornering ABS, and an anti-hopping clutch.
The 790 Duke is visually striking and definitely worth considering for 2025.
The Last Stop!
That concludes our rundown of the top 10 best middleweight naked bikes for 2025!
Finally, if you own a naked bike and need insurance, get a quote directly from Lexham!
