Ten Best Bikes 2009

Cycle World Picks the Ten Best Motorcycles of 2009.

TEN BEST BIKES 2009Cycle World

Amid seemingly intergalactic economic uncertainty and the appearance that the world as we know it is crumbling, it is nice in 2009 to be able to count on at least one thing: awesome motorcycles.

Yes, things are weird out there, but with 550 or so models available for sale in the U.S. this year--an amazing array of excellent machines you can buy right now--motorcycle enthusiasts have never had it so good.

But these 10 two-wheelers are different. They aren't just about being good: The machines on the following pages are the Ten Best Bikes of 2009.

Some win on the sheer audacity of their design, some on their overriding performance superiority, some on being simple, approachable fun. But while there are many factors that play into the selection of a motorcycle as the best in its category, at the core remains the simple fact that these are motorcycles you truly want to ride.

It’s nice to have something to count on.

Best Superbike: Aprilia RSV4

Read More: Aprilia RSV4Cycle World

Best Open Streetbike: Ducati Streetfighter S

Read More: Ducati Streetfighter SCycle World

Best Middleweight: Kawasaki ZX-6R

Read More: Kawasaki ZX-6RCycle World

Best Standard: Harley-Davidson XR1200

Read More: Harley-Davidson XR1200Cycle World

Best Sport-Tourer: Kawasaki Concours 14

Read More: Kawasaki Concours 14Cycle World

Best Cruiser: Triumph Thunderbird 1600

Read More: Triumph Thunderbird 1600Cycle World

Best Touring Bike: Honda Gold Wing

Read More: Honda Gold WingCycle World

Best Dual-Sport Bike: BMW F800GS

Read More: BMW F800GSCycle World

Best Enduro Bike: Husaberg FE450e

Read More: Husaberg FE450eCycle World

Best Motocrosser: Honda CRF450R

Read More: Honda CRF450RCycle World