In 1976, the folks at Cycle World released its first list of the best motorcycles in the world. That year, bikes such as the BMW R75/6, the Suzuki RM250, and the Kawasaki KZ900 took home awards.
Forty years later, Cycle World is still at it with the 2016 version of the magazine's annual awards for the best bikes available in 10 different categories.
Although the categories have been updated to keep pace with the needs of the market, the award winners remain a highly respected collection of the best new bikes of the year as selected by the editors and staff of Cycle World.
Here's a look at Cycle World's 2016 10 Best Bikes list.
Best cruiser: Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
Starting price: $16,699
Why it's here: Cycle World praised the Harley for its simple yet highly effective design. According to the magazine, the Low Ride S is the best cruiser Harley-Davidson has ever made. That's high praise for a brand with as much history as Harley-Davidson.
Best adventure bike: Honda Africa Twin
Starting price: $12,999
Why it's here: The Honda Africa Twin won praise from the magazine for its balance of power and lighter weight chassis along with great stability in tough conditions, "that will allow more riders to go further more safely than ever."
Best Motocrosser: Kawasaki KX450F
Starting price: $8,799
Why it's here: The reviewers at Cycle World were impressed by the Kawasaki's more manageable power delivery, lighter weight, confidence-inspiring stability, and an overall purity of purpose.
Best dual-sport/enduro bike: Yamaha YZ450FX
Starting price: $8,890
Why it's here: The Yamaha YZ450FX is Japan's answer to the slew of top notch European dual-sport/enduro bikes on the market. Cycle World praised the Yamaha for its powerful and tractable 450 CC engine, its suspension tuning, and its go-anywhere ability.