Motorcycles: Standards of Nakedness

Wander into any motorcycle-selling establishment during the past ten years (longer, really) and you would likely view a sea of plastic-wrapped machines, with engines mostly or entirely hidden. If you were to ask anyone at these locations what happened to 'standard' bikes, they'd likely point to a Honda VFR Interceptor or something similar and say 'there'. They would do so since the VFR is a bike designed to be both 'sporty' and 'racy', yet comfortable enough to commute and even travel on. An 'all-around', practical bike - hence 'standard' by the terms of the modern ('90s onward) motorcycle salesperson.

Problem is, the VFR engine has been entirely hidden by plastic 'fairings' since the mid-'80s. And for those of us who like the power plant clearly in view, the VFR just doesn't fulfill that important component of our definition of 'standard'.

When met with this resistance, plucky salesfolk might then steer you towards 'naked' bikes, where the engine is at least mostly on show. Better. What you might see would be 'retro' bikes, old designs hotted up a bit by newer technology (but far from cutting edge), or lately you might see 'streetfighters' - minimalist efforts to strip the fairings off sport bikes to show the engine and provide a slightly-less-than-torturous seat and controls arrangement for the rider. Also better, but neither option quite meets the standard of 'standard'. The 'retro' can't compete (on technical or 'ego' grounds) with the best of fully modern designs, and the streetfighters, improved ergonomics and naked viewing aside, are hardly practical devices. Travel far on one? No. Commute? Maybe, but the bike (and you) will complain all the way.

There have been some brave attempts at bridging this gap but most haven't sold well, for various reasons often accompanied by the words 'ugly' or 'dull'. A few have been successful, most of these in a newer category alternately called 'dual purpose' or 'adventure touring'. But these bikes, though mostly 'naked' and not noticeably 'retro', are anything but thrilling to gaze upon, and are often too tall for normal humans. They just don't quite fit the 'standard' bill.

So what should a 'standard' be? To be honest, I know more about what isn't a standard than what would make one today. But for me at least, I'd be looking for near cutting edge power and handling with comfort, practicality, and a good-looking, mechanically impressive engine on full display. If I can afford it, sit on it without a step stool, and carry a few things on it without resort to saddlebags, tank bags, or backpacks, I would be happy.

(For a few of today's bikes some consider 'standard' take a look at this web page at motorcyclist online. See if any meet your criteria...)