The Best Motorcycle for Busy City Riding: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right motorcycle for navigating through the chaos of dense urban environments can be a daunting task. This guide provides you with valuable insights into the ideal motorcycle for city riding, drawing from personal experience and extensive testing. Learn why the Honda Cub and modern electric motorcycles like the Zero S stand out in busy city scenarios.

The Honda Cub: A Reliable Companion for City Riding

If you're considering a motorcycle for city riding, the Honda Cub is an excellent choice, especially the 90cc variant. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the 90cc Honda Cub operates at a leisurely pace, typically around 50 mph, making it perfect for stopping and starting traffic. While it may not be the fastest machine, its robust build ensures it remains serviceable and easy to maintain. Additionally, due to its popularity in the market, spare parts are relatively easy to find.

The Safer Option: Four-Wheeled Vehicles

While motorcycles can offer a thrilling ride, safety should be a top priority in bustling city environments. The safest option by far is a four-wheeled vehicle with proper modern crumple zones and protective metal body parts. Motorcycles are highly susceptible to accidents and injuries in urban settings, so non-motorcycle riders should strongly consider alternative transportation, such as cars, to ensure their safety on the streets.

My Experience with Four Motorcycles

Over the years, I have owned and tested several motorcycles to determine the best fit for city riding. My experiences with the 2017 Zero S, 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400, 2018 Honda NC75 DCT, and 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe have provided me with a wealth of knowledge to share.

The Zero S: An Unmatched Choice for City Traffic

The Zero S has proven to be the most reliable and efficient motorcycle for city riding, thanks to its belt-driven system and linear throttle control. This motorcycle allows riders to move at a slow pace without relying on the clutch, and it can seamlessly accelerate at any moment. Its torque capabilities are remarkable, making it ideal for stop-and-go traffic.

Several positive features of the Zero S include:

Belt-driven system that requires no chain cleaning and can be driven for short distances without affecting the motor A small storage compartment that can hold drinks or food, reducing the need for a backpack No need for winterization and infrequent servicing (only tires and brakes need regular attention)

During my first year of ownership, I commuted using this motorcycle and managed to cover 5,000 miles without major issues. Even with the use of the motorcycle, new tires were the only replacement parts installed.

Selective Reliability with the Zero S

Although the Zero S excels in many areas, its reliability can be somewhat unpredictable. For instance, I experienced a 4-month setback due to a reliability issue under warranty. Despite this, I continued to use the Kawasaki Z900RS during this period and eventually adapted to it. However, there were moments when the Zero S would have been more preferred for its smooth performance in traffic.

The Z900RS: A Versatile and Powerful Choice

The Z900RS is a powerful motorcycle that excels in both urban and rural environments. It can handle steep inclines and produce impressive acceleration at lower RPMs, making it an excellent option for city riding. The only drawback is its engine vibration, which can become uncomfortable over time.

I have since favored the Zero S for city riding and the Z900RS for rural areas. Both motorcycles have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs and riding preferences of each individual.

Conclusion

When choosing the best motorcycle for busy city riding, it's crucial to consider both reliability and safety. The Honda Cub and modern electric motorcycles like the Zero S stand out as reliable and efficient options. For those who prioritize safety, four-wheeled vehicles remain the safest choice. My experiences with various motorcycles have provided valuable insights into the factors that contribute to a successful city riding experience.