from www.motorcycle.com

Who shall be King of the Sport-Tourers? Ok, this can’t really be a battle for the crown, since we’re excluding some other notable bikes that can both carve corners and carry some serious luggage. But we’d like to think that one of these two beasties has a chance to take the crown. After all, they both displace over 1200cc, they come from well-respected brands, have excellent finish and build quality, and cost a pretty penny, too.

Your Motorcycle New Guy would be more than happy to put either of these gorgeous machines through their paces. The winding roads of Highway 1 just north of San Francisco would be a perfect spot, I think.

Personally, the idea of a powerful sport-touring motorcycle just resonates so strongly in me – it makes me think of freedom and adventure – that I’m sure I’ll own one at some point. I would feel lucky if it were one of these two.

For more details, dyno charts, and lots of pretty photos check out the full comparo (including video) from Motorcycle.com.