Winners Announced in the “Latvian Motorcycle of the Year 2026” Competition
The best motorcycle models of 2026 in Latvia were awarded in 15 categories, with the BMW R 1300 R taking the main prize.
Competition and Process
The “Latvian Motorcycle of the Year” competition has been held since 2014, and in 2026 it took place for the 11th time. The event aims to promote motorcycle activities, inform customers, and draw attention to motorcycles as a means of transport, recreation, sport, and entertainment.
The competition opened on April 20 with a motorcycle exhibition at the “Akropole Rīga” shopping centre. Tests followed on May 14 at the Biķernieki sports complex, evaluated by a jury. The award ceremony was held on June 18 at the Rīgas Motormuzejs (Riga Motor Museum), where the winners were announced.
Participants and Nominations
This year, 45 candidates from various global manufacturers competed in 15 nominations. The jury assessed motorcycles according to the competition regulations and code of ethics to ensure fair evaluation.
Winners
The main prize of “Latvian Motorcycle of the Year 2026” was awarded to the BMW R 1300 R. Second place went to the HONDA CB750 HORNET E-Clutch, and third place to the Triumph Daytona 660.
Other category winners:
- Street motorcycle: HONDA CB750 HORNET E-Clutch
- Small street motorcycle: Aprilia Tuono 457
- Adventure motorcycle: Suzuki DL800 DE
- Small adventure motorcycle: Kawasaki KLE 500D
- Powerbike: BMW R 1300 R
- Tourism motorcycle: BMW R 1300 RT
- Road sports motorcycle: Triumph Daytona 660
- Off-road motorcycle: Ducati Desmo 450 MX
- Scooter: Vespa GTS 125 Super Sport
- Cruiser: Ducati XDiavel V4
- People's Choice: Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 Energy Red
- Best-selling motorcycle: BMW (252 units sold)
Expert Comments
Technical director Oskars Irbītis noted a record number of participants this year, reflecting market trends. He pointed out that increased competition among manufacturers has made motorcycles more accessible and of higher quality.
Jury member Tāls Meļķis, curator of the BKSB 60 exhibition, expressed satisfaction that the event was held at the motor museum, which simultaneously hosted a 60th anniversary exhibition of the Biķernieki track.
Organizers
The competition was conceived by motorcycle journalist Arnis Blodons, chaired by Pauls Timrots, and technically directed by Oskars Irbītis. The event was organized by SIA “Grafikas”.
