For 2020 KTM?s ?Beast? offers more monster power but is actually less beastly in the handling department thanks to an all-new frame, wheels, tires and suspension upgrades.

Narrowly focused hyper-sportbikes just aren?t my thing anymore. Used to love ?em, but now the ol? bod protests against low clip-on handlebars, high rearset footpegs and peaky powerbands that demand the motorcycle be ridden like you stole it, or it will buck and complain as if you?re lugging an old truck. Some V-twin sportbikes in particular don?t smooth out until you?re well north of legal speed in anything above second gear. That sort of unbroken-thoroughbred behavior is fine for track days, I suppose, but if it?s your only bike, most of us want something more versatile.
While the performance potential of such sportbikes is attractive, to get my full attention comfortable seating is mandatory, with a wide, tallish one-piece handlebar that adjusts, and further adjustability in reasonably located footpegs, levers and pedal is desirable as well. At its heart a V-twin would have to be a model of civility at lower engine speeds, whether by nature or electronic riding mode, so that it can be ridden around town or on a commute without feeling the need to wear racing leathers. And in addition to the expected screaming top-end, it would require a ton of midrange power to make it easy to ride briskly without a lot of shifting, with all of the braking and electronic rider aids aboard to rein the beast in fro...