Top Naked Sports Bikes of 2024: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Before fairings became the norm, every motorcycle was essentially a naked sports bike. Stripped down and raw, these machines offered a pure riding experience focused on the thrill of the road. Today, the term “naked” describes motorcycles that forgo extensive fairings, emphasizing their mechanical beauty, upright riding position, and versatile performance. These bikes are celebrated for their simplicity, agility, and connection to the essence of motorcycling.

The Enduring Appeal of Naked Sports Bikes

What makes Naked Sports Bikes so captivating? Their stripped-back design often translates to affordability and ease of handling, particularly beneficial for riders new to the sport. A middleweight naked sports bike provides an unmatched wind-in-your-face experience, a sensation that fully-faired sports bikes or touring models simply can’t replicate. On the other end of the spectrum, high-capacity super-naked sports bikes deliver exhilarating performance comparable to superbikes, but with a more comfortable, upright riding posture and greater everyday usability.

Of course, the minimalist nature of naked sports bikes comes with trade-offs. Exposure to the elements can make long journeys more tiring, and they lack some of the weather protection and storage amenities found on faired bikes. However, for riders prioritizing a direct, unfiltered motorcycling experience, nothing compares to the visceral joy of a naked sports bike.

The 2020s have witnessed an exciting evolution in the naked sports bike category, with the emergence of “hyper-nakeds” boasting superbike-level power and cutting-edge components. This trend continues, with models like the formidable 207bhp BMW M1000R and the refined Ducati Streetfighter V4 S pushing performance boundaries.

However, this relentless pursuit of peak performance has also driven prices upwards, placing these hyper-nakeds out of reach for many riders. For most enthusiasts, the real sweet spot lies in the realm of real-world naked sports bikes that offer a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and value. Here’s our curated selection of the best naked sports bikes available in 2024, focusing on models that deliver exceptional riding experiences in everyday scenarios.

Explore the Best Naked Sports Bikes of 2024:

2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP

2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP pulling a wheelie

• Key Highlights: High-performance Brembo Stylema brake calipers, enhanced electronic rider aids, keyless ignition for convenience, and fully adjustable suspension.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 890cc, Power Output: 117bhp, Seat Height: 825mm.
• Price Point: £11,800 (new).
• Read the Full Review: Yamaha MT-09 SP Review
• Expert Review: The Yamaha MT-09 SP builds upon the already excellent 2021 model, incorporating updates to the engine and chassis shared with the standard MT-09. The SP variant elevates the experience with premium components like Öhlins rear shock and KYB front forks, a distinctive blue/black/silver color scheme inspired by the Yamaha R1M, and now, for the first time on a Yamaha, Brembo Stylema calipers for superior braking performance. Keyless ignition adds a touch of modern convenience, controlling ignition, steering lock, and fuel cap. Electronically, the SP now allows deactivation of the rear anti-lock braking system, catering to riders who intend to explore track riding.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: The previous generation MT-09 SP remains a highly capable machine. For riders seeking value, exploring the used market for earlier models presents a smart opportunity.

2024 KTM 990 Duke

• Key Highlights: Increased engine capacity to 947cc parallel-twin, boosting power to 121bhp and 76lb-ft of torque, and a redesigned, more robust chassis.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 947cc, Power Output: 121bhp, Weight: 179kg, Seat Height: 825mm.
• Price Range: £12,999 (new) – £11,000 (used).
• Read the Full Review: KTM 990 Duke Review
• Expert Review: KTM’s Duke lineup of naked sports bikes offers a range of engine sizes to suit various rider experience levels, from beginner-friendly smaller displacements to the potent 1390 Super Duke R. The 990 Duke occupies the sportier end of KTM’s middleweight naked bike offerings. MCN’s Chief Road Tester, Michael Neeves, lauded the 990 Duke as possessing some of the finest handling characteristics in the road bike market, making it an exceptionally capable and focused machine. While perhaps not ideal for touring or frequent pillion riding, the 990 Duke excels as a weekend thrill machine or track day companion.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: While some online reviews have highlighted past KTM reliability concerns, particularly regarding camshaft issues in earlier 790/890 models, KTM emphasizes the robustness of the 990 platform. Current KTM 990 Duke owners have praised the bike’s ample power and engaging riding experience, suggesting strong confidence in this model.

2024 CFMoto 800 NK Advanced

2024 CFMoto 800NK Advanced cornering on a country road

• Key Highlights: KTM-derived parallel-twin engine, keyless ignition, cruise control for added comfort, integrated tracker for security, and Apple CarPlay compatibility within its 8-inch TFT display.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 799cc, Power Output: 94bhp, Weight: 186kg, Seat Height: 795mm.
• Price Range: £7,499 (new) – £6,500 (used).
• Read the Full Review: CFMoto 800NK Advanced Review
• Expert Review: CFMoto, a rising Chinese manufacturer, is making significant strides, and the 800NK Advanced stands as a testament to their progress in the middleweight naked sports bike segment. While sharing components with the KTM 790 Duke, the 800NK Advanced distinguishes itself with unique styling and a slightly more relaxed riding character. Considering its competitive price point, the level of features is remarkable. While the absence of cornering-sensitive traction control and ABS is a minor drawback, it’s a small compromise in an otherwise impressive package. The CFMoto 800NK Advanced is a compelling sporty middleweight contender, particularly when price and features are prioritized.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: Long-term reliability of CFMoto’s KTM-derived engines is still being established. However, CFMoto’s growing dealer network, often leveraging KTM dealerships, combined with the bike’s attractive new price, makes it a tempting option for value-conscious buyers.

2023 Honda Hornet CB750

• Key Highlights: Punchy 91bhp, 755cc parallel-twin engine, comprehensive standard equipment, and exceptional value for money.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 755cc, Power Output: 91bhp, Weight: 190kg, Seat Height: 795mm.
• Price: £6,999 (new).
• Read the Full Review: Honda Hornet CB750 Review
• Expert Review: The Honda Hornet CB750 was a standout surprise in 2023 and remains a strong contender in the naked sports bike category in 2024. Its exceptional parallel-twin engine and engaging handling earned it a full five-star rating in reviews. Honda’s renowned build quality, combined with an incredibly attractive price, positions the CB750 Hornet as one of the most desirable bikes in this segment. It also boasts a generous level of standard equipment, with further customization options available through optional extras.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: As a relatively recent model, the Honda Hornet CB750 benefits from access to Honda’s extensive dealer network. Given its popularity and value proposition, securing a bike at its initial sub-£8,000 price point is advisable, as prices may increase. The recent launch of its larger sibling, the Honda CB1000 Hornet, adds further excitement to the Hornet family.

2023 Suzuki GSX-8S

Suzuki GSX-8S on the MCN test bike fleet

• Key Highlights: All-new 776cc parallel-twin engine with robust midrange power, forgiving and stable handling, and a user-friendly digital interface with rider aids.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 776cc, Power Output: 82bhp, Weight: 202kg, Seat Height: 810mm.
• Price: £7,999 (new).
• Read the Full Review: Suzuki GSX-8S Review
• Expert Review: 2023 marked a significant year for Suzuki with the introduction of the GSX-8S, a completely new model featuring a new engine, confidence-inspiring handling, and a sub-£8,000 price tag. It remains a strong contender in the 2024 naked sports bike landscape. The engine excels with its strong midrange, providing excellent corner exit acceleration. Rider modes and good fuel economy add to its versatility. Standard features include an up-and-down quickshifter, a five-inch TFT screen, and radial-mount brake calipers.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: The Suzuki GSX-8S, being a newer model, offers excellent value at its current price. Early adoption is recommended before potential price increases. MCN’s long-term test review provides further insights into the Suzuki GSX-8S’s real-world performance and reliability. Suzuki GSX-8S Long-Term Review

2023 Triumph Street Triple RS

• Key Highlights: Moto2-inspired engine upgrades enhancing performance, more aggressive brakes and steering geometry for sharper handling, and a slightly smaller fuel tank emphasizing its sporty focus.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 765cc, Power Output: 128bhp, Weight: 188kg, Seat Height: 836mm.
• Price: £11,295 (new).
• Read the Full Review: Triumph Street Triple RS Review
• Expert Review: The Triumph Street Triple RS evolved from the original 2007 Street Triple, which was conceived as a naked version of the Daytona 675. It quickly became a benchmark in the middleweight naked sports bike class, praised for its versatile performance, stylish design, and accessible fun. Successive updates have refined the Street Triple, with a major evolution in 2017 bringing the 765cc engine, advanced electronics, and multiple variants. The RS model sits at the top, offering increased power, premium electronics, and a TFT screen. The 2023 model year incorporated Moto2-derived engine enhancements, further sharpening its performance. The Street Triple RS delivers a near-race bike experience with the comfort of upright handlebars, excelling in both acceleration and handling, making it incredibly rewarding to ride fast.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: The Triumph Street Triple 765 has been available for several years, resulting in a healthy used market. The 2017 and 2020 models are very similar in riding experience, offering potential cost savings in the used market. Triumph’s higher-spec models are known for their quality and build, but due to their sporty nature, careful inspection for signs of hard use or novice damage is recommended when considering used examples.

2023 Ducati Monster 937 SP

Ducati Monster SP tested for MCN by Emma Franklin

• Key Highlights: A track-focused and high-performance version of the Monster, equipped with Öhlins suspension and Brembo Stylema brake calipers for superior handling and braking.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 937cc, Power Output: 109bhp, Weight: 186kg, Seat Height: 840mm.
• Price: £13,995 (new).
• Read the Full Review: Ducati Monster 937 SP Review
• Expert Review: The SP designation signifies a special, performance-oriented Ducati model. The Monster 937 SP represents the fourth generation of the iconic Monster naked sports bike to receive the SP treatment. Unlike some exclusive, unobtainable Ducati SP models of the past, the Monster 937 SP is a regular production model, priced at a £2700 premium over the base Monster. This upgrade brings significant enhancements, including Öhlins suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers, and weight reduction. While perhaps not immediately distinguishable from the standard Monster to the casual observer, the SP transforms the Monster’s character, making it Ducati’s most playful road bike, approaching the agility and excitement of the Hypermotard. The firmer suspension, sportier riding position, and enhanced brakes elevate the Monster SP into a more focused and engaging machine.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: The Ducati Monster 937 SP is a relatively new model with limited availability on the used market. It represents a significant step up from previous Monster generations. Compared to rivals like the KTM 890 Duke R, Yamaha MT-09 SP, and Triumph Street Triple RS, the Monster 937 SP carries a higher price tag. Exploring the used market for potential savings is advisable for budget-conscious buyers. Ducati Monster 937 SP Long-Term Review

2022 Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory

• Key Highlights: Exhilarating and agile handling at real-world road speeds, top-tier chassis components, and slightly increased power compared to the standard Tuono 660.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 799cc, Power Output: 99bhp, Weight: 181kg, Seat Height: 820mm.
• Price Range: £10,000 (new) – £6,700 (used).
• Read the Full Review: Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory Review
• Expert Review: The Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory is the naked sports bike derivative of the RS660 sports bike, mirroring the relationship between the Tuono V4 and RSV4. The Tuono 660 Factory retains the user-friendliness of the RS660 while offering an even more accessible riding experience. The Factory version adds an IMU for lean-sensitive electronics, a slight weight reduction, and a small power bump. The Tuono 660 Factory’s handling is exceptional, with wide handlebars providing excellent leverage for cornering. While its 99bhp output might seem modest compared to some competitors, it delivers ample real-world performance for spirited road riding.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: Exploring the used market is recommended to mitigate the initial depreciation of a new bike purchase. Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory Used Listings While the Tuono 660 Factory is a thrilling naked sports bike, its £10,000 new price for a sub-100bhp twin-cylinder machine places it in competition with more powerful rivals like the Yamaha MT-09 and KTM 890 Duke.

2021 Triumph Trident 660

• Key Highlights: Affordable ownership costs, well-equipped for its class, and Triumph’s signature Street Triple DNA in a more accessible package.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 660cc, Power Output: 80bhp, Weight: 189kg, Seat Height: 805mm.
• Price Range: £7,895 (new) – £4,800 (used).
• Read the Full Review: Triumph Trident 660 Review
• Expert Review: The Triumph Trident 660 is Triumph’s entry-level naked sports bike, designed to appeal to new riders while still offering enough performance and refinement to satisfy experienced motorcyclists. 2025 updates include Euro5+ emissions compliance, enhanced technology, updated suspension, and new color options. The Trident 660 stands out for its characterful three-cylinder engine and a balanced ride and handling profile that is both comfortable and engaging.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: Owner reviews suggest some isolated mechanical issues, but no widespread common problems. Wet weather riding can result in road spray reaching the rider’s back. An A2 license restrictor kit is available, making it accessible to riders with A2 licenses. Triumph Trident 660 Owners’ Reviews Triumph Trident 660 Long-Term Test

2021 Yamaha MT-07

• Key Highlights: High-quality Michelin Road 5 tires as standard equipment, larger front brake discs and wider handlebars for improved handling, and a subtle but effective update over the previous MT-07 generation.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 689cc, Power Output: 72bhp, Weight: 184kg, Seat Height: 805mm.
• Price Range: £7,500 (new) – £4,800 (used).
• Read the Full Review: Yamaha MT-07 Review
• Expert Review: While introduced a few years ago, the Yamaha MT-07 remains a compelling naked sports bike, particularly for its price. It’s essentially a smaller, more affordable twin-cylinder version of the MT-09. The MT-07 has been a sales success in Europe since its 2014 launch, praised for its responsive and flexible engine, agile handling, exceptional value, and broad appeal to both novice and experienced riders. The 2021 update brought styling in line with the MT-09 and addressed previous criticisms of the original model’s suspension. While basic in some respects and less suited for long-distance touring compared to models like the Yamaha Tracer 700 or Ténéré 700, the MT-07 is virtually unbeatable in its price range, offering exceptional pound-for-pound value.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: The CP2 parallel-twin engine in the MT-07 is known for its reliability. However, being a budget-conscious model, used examples may show signs of neglect, especially from novice owners. The MT-07’s popularity means a wide selection of used models is available.

Unique & Bespoke Naked Sports Bike: 2025 CCM Street Moto

2025-on CCM Street Moto R riding past on a country lane

• Key Highlights: Available in base and premium “R” models, with variations in wheels, suspension, and exhaust, hand-built in the UK for a unique and personalized touch.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 600cc, Power Output: 55bhp, Weight: 141kg, Seat Height: 830mm.
• Price: £9,995 (new).
• Read the Full Review: CCM Street Moto Review
• Expert Review: The CCM Street Moto and Street Moto R (£11,495) are hand-built, custom-focused roadsters offering a distinctive and exclusive riding experience. The “R” model upgrades to forged-aluminum Dymag wheels, a high-level exhaust, a remote-reservoir YSS shock, and carbon fiber details. The Street Moto prioritizes a raw, unfiltered riding experience over everyday practicality or advanced technology. It lacks ABS and traction control, and its LCD dash provides minimal information. It also requires individual type-approval for UK road use due to not fully conforming to standard emissions regulations.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: CCM offers extensive customization options, potentially leading to a bewildering array of configurations. As some CCM models enter the used market, opportunities for finding a nearly bespoke bike at a potentially reduced price may emerge.

Used Naked Sports Bikes to Consider: 2019 BMW R1250R

• Key Highlights: Smooth and powerful ShiftCam boxer engine, comfortable roadster riding position, and impressive chassis and braking performance.
• Technical Specifications: Engine Capacity: 1254cc, Power Output: 134bhp, Weight: 239kg, Seat Height: 820mm.
• Price Range: £10,500 – £8,400 (used).
• Read the Full Review: BMW R1250R Review
• Expert Review: The BMW R1250R, often overlooked in favor of other BMW models, is a consistently excellent naked roadster. Since its “oil-head” iteration in 1995, it has combined purity, all-around performance, and BMW’s refined engineering. The 2019 R1250R features the ShiftCam engine, a TFT screen, and extensive customization options. While perhaps not the most overtly exciting choice, the R1250R delivers a sophisticated and capable riding experience.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: BMW motorcycles generally exhibit good build quality. The R1250R and its predecessor 1200 models are known for reliability. Owners tend to be mature riders who maintain their bikes well. Optional extras like heated grips and luggage are worth seeking out on used models.

Exploring More Naked Sports Bike Options

Beyond the highlighted models, a vast selection of used naked sports bikes awaits exploration. MCN Used Naked Bikes for Sale Consider models like the Kawasaki Z650 Kawasaki Z650 Review or the Suzuki SV650 Suzuki SV650 Review for further options in the naked sports bike category.

Electric Naked Sports Bikes: 2024 Livewire S2 Del Mar

Livewire S2 Del Mar left side on the road

• Key Highlights: Battery-powered naked roadster, impressive 83bhp and 194lb-ft of torque, and a 20%-80% charge time of 78 minutes.
• Technical Specifications: Power Output: 83bhp, Weight: 198kg, Seat Height: 818mm.
• Price: £16,990 (new).
• Read the Full Review: Livewire S2 Del Mar Review
• Expert Review: Electric motorcycles are still emerging, but the Livewire S2 Del Mar stands out as a top contender, earning recognition as a MCN best electric bike winner. Its electric powertrain is particularly well-suited to the naked roadster format. The S2 Del Mar delivers instant torque and polished handling, offering a comfortable and engaging ride. Its overall refinement surpasses its electric rivals, making it comparable in riding enjoyment to petrol-powered naked sports bikes. While still expensive and dependent on charging infrastructure, the Livewire S2 Del Mar represents the leading edge of electric naked motorcycles.
• Pre-owned Market Insight: As a new model, long-term reliability data is still developing. Initial impressions suggest high build quality. The growing charging infrastructure enhances the practicality of electric motorcycle ownership, contingent on overcoming the initial purchase cost.

Essential Checks When Buying a Used Naked Sports Bike

• Begin your search: Explore MCN Used Naked Bikes for Sale and utilize MCN Compare for insurance quotes.
• Verify Engine and Frame Numbers: Ensure they match the V5 document.
• Inspect Chain, Sprockets, and Final Drive: Check for wear, indicating maintenance history. For shaft-driven models, inquire about fluid checks and changes and potential differential bearing wear.
• Assess Consumables: Examine brake pad thickness and tire tread depth for negotiation points.
• Check for Electrical Issues: Inspect wiring, especially around aftermarket accessories, for tidy and secure connections. Untidy wiring can lead to diagnostic problems.
• Evaluate Technology Features: For bikes with preload suspension, rider modes, traction control, and ABS, verify proper function, as repairs can be costly.
• Engine Condition: Start the engine from cold and hot, listening for unusual noises. Check oil condition. Test ride to ensure smooth gear changes.
• Road Tax (VED): Road tax is not transferable. Renew it before riding. A current MOT is preferable; be cautious of sellers who claim a bike will “fly through” an MOT.