2025 Motorcycle and Scooter Guide: What to Buy and New Launches

2025 Motorcycle and Scooter Guide: What to Buy and New Launches

In the ever-evolving world of two-wheelers, 2025 brings an exciting array of new motorcycles and scooters that push the boundaries of performance, technology, and design. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping superbike, a practical commuter, or an eco-friendly electric option, the 2025 lineup has something for everyone. This comprehensive guide explores the most anticipated releases and helps you decide which bike or scooter deserves your attention.

2025 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS

Performance Motorcycles: Power Meets Precision

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: The British Beast Evolved

The 2025 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS represents a significant evolution for Hinckley’s flagship super-naked. Boasting 180 horsepower and an impressive 94.5 ft-lb of torque, this British powerhouse combines raw performance with sophisticated technology. The 2025 model introduces Öhlins Smart EC3 semi-active suspension, updated electronics, and a revised Euro 5+ compliant engine that delivers more power while improving fuel efficiency from 44.8mpg to an impressive 51.4mpg.

Key features of the 2025 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS include:

  • 180hp liquid-cooled 1160cc triple engine
  • Advanced four-stage wheelie control system
  • Öhlins Smart EC3 semi-active suspension
  • Cornering ABS and traction control
  • Five riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Track, Rider)
  • Premium Brembo Stylema brakes
  • Available in Jet Black and Diablo Red color schemes
  • Priced at $19,995 in the US market

What makes this bike special is its balanced nature—equally at home on twisty backroads or track days while remaining surprisingly comfortable for daily use. The Speed Triple has always been known for its distinctive three-cylinder howl and torquey power delivery, and the 2025 model takes these characteristics to new heights.

2025 Ducati Streetfighter V4

Ducati Streetfighter V4: The Naked Panigale

Ducati’s 2025 Streetfighter V4 receives its most significant update yet, bringing it closer than ever to its fully-faired sibling, the Panigale V4. The “naked Panigale” philosophy has been taken to new extremes with this model, combining the raw, aggressive styling of a streetfighter with the heart of a superbike.

The 2025 Streetfighter V4 features:

  • 205hp Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine
  • Advanced aerodynamics with integrated winglets
  • Cutting-edge electronics package including cornering ABS, slide control, and wheelie control
  • Lightweight 417 lb dry weight
  • Available in standard V4 ($23,395) and premium V4 S ($28,995) variants with Öhlins electronic suspension
  • Limited-edition V4 S Supreme and V4 Lamborghini special editions

“The Ducati Streetfighter V4 is a serious motorcycle with cutting edge tech and performance that warrants a premium price tag,” notes Motorcycle.com in their recent first-ride review. The 2025 model will arrive in US dealerships starting in April 2025, with the S model featuring premium Öhlins suspension and lighter forged wheels. Motorcycle.com

2025 Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon

Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon: Supercharged Supremacy

The 2025 Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon continues to push the boundaries of motorcycle engineering with its supercharged 998cc inline-four engine. This technological marvel combines a carbon fiber upper cowl with a lightweight trellis frame and Kawasaki’s proprietary supercharger technology to create one of the most powerful production motorcycles available.

The 2025 Ninja H2 Carbon features:

  • Supercharged 998cc inline-four engine
  • Distinctive carbon fiber upper cowl
  • Brembo Stylema brake calipers
  • Smartphone connectivity with the Kawasaki Rideology app
  • Launch control and quickshifter as standard
  • Mirror-finish paint that self-heals minor scratches
  • Priced at approximately $36,200

For those seeking even more extreme performance, Kawasaki also offers the track-only Ninja H2R with over 300 horsepower and a top speed of 249 mph, making it the fastest production motorcycle in the world. Additionally, Kawasaki has been testing a hydrogen-powered Ninja H2 HySE, showcasing the company’s commitment to alternative fuel technologies.

Electric Revolution: Sustainable Speed

2025 BMW CE 04 electric scooter

BMW CE 04: The Future of Urban Mobility

The BMW CE 04 continues to stand out as one of the most distinctive and technologically advanced electric scooters for 2025. With its futuristic design and impressive performance credentials, this electric scooter has redefined what urban commuters can expect from battery-powered two-wheelers.

Key specifications for the 2025 BMW CE 04 include:

  • 31 kW (42 hp) electric motor
  • Top speed of 75 mph (121 km/h)
  • Range of up to 81 miles (130 km)
  • 10.25-inch TFT color display with navigation integration
  • 35-minute fast charging from 20% to 80%
  • Starting price around $14,550

What makes the CE 04 unique is its striking design that centers around a slim underfloor battery pack and compact drivetrain, allowing for innovative storage solutions. The scooter offers seamless smartphone integration with navigation displayed directly on the large TFT screen. For 2025, BMW continues to offer the CE 04 in Light White and the more vibrant Imperial Blue Metallic options.

Can-Am Electric Motorcycles: Legacy Reborn

Can-Am has made a triumphant return to the motorcycle market with its all-electric 2025 lineup, featuring two distinct models: the Origin dual-sport and the Pulse roadster. These represent Can-Am’s first motorcycles in nearly 40 years, now reimagined for the electric age.

The 2025 Can-Am electric motorcycle lineup features:

  • Range of approximately 75 miles per charge
  • Level 2 charging capabilities
  • Unique single-sided swingarm design
  • Modern LED lighting
  • Interactive digital displays
  • Starting prices that position them as affordable electric options

The Pulse targets urban riders with a standard riding position and city-friendly ergonomics, while the Origin offers light off-road capabilities with longer-travel suspension and dual-sport tires. Both models represent significant additions to the growing electric motorcycle segment, with reviewers noting their appealing designs at affordable price points.

Zero Motorcycles: Refined Electric Performance

Zero Motorcycles continues to lead the electric motorcycle market with their 2025 lineup, offering improved range and performance across their various models. The flagship SR/F and SR/S models receive updates to their battery management systems, resulting in quicker charging times and extended range.

The 2025 Zero lineup highlights:

  • Up to 200 miles of city range on top models
  • DC fast charging capabilities
  • Advanced Cypher III+ operating system with over-the-air updates
  • Premium Showa suspension components
  • Smartphone app integration for customization
  • Pricing from $12,000 to $24,000 depending on model and configuration

Practical Commuters: Everyday Excellence

2025 Honda PCX scooter

Honda PCX: The Refined Commuter

The 2025 Honda PCX continues to set the standard for practical, efficient urban transportation. This popular scooter receives updates for 2025 that enhance both style and functionality while maintaining the reliability that Honda is known for.

The 2025 PCX features:

  • Fuel-efficient 157cc liquid-cooled engine
  • Enhanced underseat storage space for a full-face helmet
  • LED lighting throughout
  • LCD instrument display
  • Available ABS
  • Improved fuel efficiency of approximately 100 mpg
  • Starting price around $4,000

Honda has refined the PCX’s bodywork for 2025, giving it a more modern appearance while maintaining the practical aspects that have made it a worldwide bestseller. The 2025 model year also brings a new Pearl Gray color option that gives the scooter a premium, sophisticated look. The PCX offers the perfect balance of economy, practicality, and Honda’s legendary reliability.

Yamaha XMAX: Sport Scooter Excellence

The 2025 Yamaha XMAX continues to define the “sport scooter” category with its blend of performance, technology, and practical features. This scooter is designed for riders who want commuting practicality without sacrificing the excitement of sporty handling and responsive power.

Key features of the 2025 XMAX include:

  • 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine
  • Traction control system
  • Smartphone connectivity with Y-Connect app integration
  • Underseat storage for two full-face helmets
  • Adjustable windscreen and handlebars
  • Keyless ignition system
  • Starting price of approximately $6,000

The XMAX stands out in the scooter market with its motorcycle-inspired front end featuring dual LED headlights and a sporty, aggressive stance. For 2025, Yamaha has enhanced the scooter’s connectivity features, allowing riders to receive notifications, track maintenance, and record trip data through the Y-Connect smartphone app.

Vespa GTS 310: Italian Icon Evolved

The iconic Vespa brand continues to evolve while staying true to its heritage with the 2025 GTS 310, the most powerful Vespa to date. This classic Italian scooter combines timeless design with modern technology and increased displacement for 2025.

The 2025 Vespa GTS 310 offers:

  • New 310cc single-cylinder engine (up from 278cc)
  • Advanced iGET technology for improved efficiency
  • Enhanced ABS and traction control systems
  • TFT display on premium models
  • Classic Vespa steel monocoque chassis
  • Expanded color palette including classic and modern options
  • Premium pricing starting around $7,500

What makes the Vespa special is its unmistakable design and premium construction. Unlike most plastic-bodied scooters, the Vespa maintains its traditional steel body construction, providing both distinctive style and durability. The 2025 updates focus on increased power delivery while maintaining the refined ride quality that Vespa owners expect.

Adventure and Touring Models: Explore Further

BMW R 1300 GS Adventure: The Ultimate Globetrotter

BMW’s iconic adventure bike receives a major overhaul for 2025 with the R 1300 GS Adventure. Building on the standard R 1300 GS introduced previously, the Adventure variant adds extended range and off-road capability for serious long-distance travelers.

The 2025 R 1300 GS Adventure features:

  • New 1,300cc boxer engine with increased power and torque
  • Completely redesigned frame and bodywork
  • Enhanced electronics package with radar-assisted cruise control
  • Optional ASA (Active Suspension Adjustment)
  • Increased fuel capacity over the standard model
  • Tubeless spoked wheels for better off-road durability
  • Starting price around $22,000

The R 1300 GS Adventure continues BMW’s legacy of creating the definitive adventure touring motorcycle, capable of circling the globe while providing comfort, reliability, and off-road capability. The 2025 model represents the most significant update to the platform in years, with improved electronics and a more powerful yet efficient engine.

Triumph Scrambler T4: Retro Adventure

Slated for a June 2025 release, the Triumph Scrambler T4 represents Triumph’s continued commitment to blending retro styling with modern capability. Building on the success of previous Scrambler models, the T4 version brings increased performance and off-road ability to the platform.

The upcoming Scrambler T4 is expected to feature:

  • Larger engine displacement with increased power
  • Improved suspension travel
  • Enhanced electronics package
  • Upgraded Brembo brakes
  • Traditional scrambler styling with modern components
  • Estimated starting price around $14,000

Future Trends and Technology

The 2025 motorcycle and scooter market showcases several important trends that indicate where the industry is heading:

1. Electrification Acceleration
Electric models are becoming increasingly mainstream, with traditional manufacturers like Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki joining specialized electric brands like Zero and LiveWire. Kawasaki’s hydrogen-powered H2 HySE prototype also points to alternative clean energy exploration.

2. Advanced Rider Aids
Even mid-range motorcycles now feature sophisticated electronics previously found only on flagship models. Systems like cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and multiple riding modes are becoming standard features rather than expensive extras.

3. Connectivity Integration
Most premium 2025 models feature smartphone connectivity, allowing for navigation, vehicle status monitoring, and customization through dedicated apps. Larger TFT displays are becoming the norm across various categories.

4. Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing
Manufacturers are increasingly highlighting their use of sustainable materials and manufacturing processes. Recycled components, eco-friendly production methods, and carbon footprint reduction are becoming important selling points.

Which Bike Should You Buy in 2025?

With such diverse options available, choosing the right motorcycle or scooter depends on your specific needs, experience level, and budget. Here are some considerations to guide your decision:

For Urban Commuters:

  • Honda PCX: Best for reliability and efficiency
  • BMW CE 04: Ideal for tech-forward riders seeking an electric option
  • Vespa GTS 310: Perfect for those valuing style and heritage

For Performance Enthusiasts:

  • Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: Balanced performance with British character
  • Ducati Streetfighter V4: Raw power and Italian engineering
  • Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon: Ultimate supercharged performance

For Adventure Seekers:

  • BMW R 1300 GS Adventure: The gold standard for around-the-world travel
  • Triumph Scrambler T4: Style-conscious adventure with retro flair

For Electric Pioneers:

  • Zero SR/F: Established electric performance leader
  • Can-Am Pulse/Origin: Exciting newcomers to the electric scene

Conclusion

The 2025 motorcycle and scooter market offers an exciting array of options spanning all categories and price points. From cutting-edge electric technology to refined performance machines and practical commuters, there’s never been a better time to be a two-wheel enthusiast.

Whether you’re attracted to the raw power of the Ducati Streetfighter V4, the futuristic appeal of the BMW CE 04 electric scooter, or the practical efficiency of the Honda PCX, the 2025 lineup has something to match your riding style and preferences.

As manufacturers continue to push boundaries with innovative technologies, improved performance, and increased sustainability, riders can look forward to an exciting future on two wheels. The motorcycle industry is in a period of significant transformation, and the 2025 model year showcases both the evolution of traditional motorcycling values and the revolution of new technologies.

What will you be riding in 2025?


Note to readers: Pricing and specifications may vary by region. Always check with your local dealer for the most up-to-date information before making a purchase decision.

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