The Best Touring Motorcycles For Long-Distance Travel
Planning a long motorcycle trip but not sure which bike is best for you? Touring motorcycles are designed for comfort and distance, packed with features like cruise control and saddlebags.
BMW K 1600 GT
The BMW K 1600 GT screams power with its 1649cc inline-six engine. Packing a punch, it delivers 160 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque. This is not just muscle; it’s refined technology too, featuring electronic suspension adjustment for smooth rides no matter the terrain.
Riders will appreciate the large 10.25-inch TFT instrument screen, which provides crucial information at a glance.
Priced at $24,690, this touring motorcycle brings luxury on two wheels. Various ride modes tailor your adventure to different road conditions, ensuring safety and thrill in every mile traveled.
With advanced features like traction control and a sophisticated shaft drive system, the BMW K 1600 GT stands out among sport touring motorcycles as both powerful and luxurious.
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Honda Gold Wing
The Honda Gold Wing stands out for long rides. It starts at $25,600 and offers great value. With an 1833cc liquid-cooled flat-six engine, this bike delivers a powerful 125 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque.
Riding across states becomes easy with its seven-speed automatic transmission. Plus, you can choose an optional airbag for extra safety.
Safety features include traction control and ABS, keeping the rider secure on different terrains. Long journeys feel shorter thanks to its comfort-focused design—perfect for adventure touring motorcycles fans or those looking into baggers.
The built-in Apple CarPlay lets riders stay connected on the go, making it a tech-savvy option too.
Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS
The Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS stands out with its powerful 1352cc inline-four engine, delivering a hefty 158 horsepower. This touring bike is built for high-speed performance and sporty handling, making it an excellent choice for long-distance travel on highways and twisty roads alike.
Lighter weight compared to other touring bikes adds to its agility, ensuring a smooth ride without sacrificing performance.
Priced at $19,894, the Concours 14 ABS offers great value for riders seeking both speed and comfort. Its advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) enhances safety while riding at high speeds or in tricky conditions.
Whether you’re cruising across state lines or weaving through city traffic, this sport tourer ensures you have control and power in your hands.
Yamaha FJR1300ES
The Yamaha FJR1300ES stands out with a base price of $18,774. Its 1298cc inline-four engine delivers a powerful 142 horsepower and 102 lb-ft of torque. This sport tourer comes equipped with throttle-by-wire technology for smooth acceleration.
It also features a six-speed manual transmission with an A&S clutch, allowing for seamless shifts.
Riders will appreciate the adjustable seat, handlebars, windscreen, and suspension—providing comfort on long rides. Safety is enhanced by ABS and traction control systems. Cruise control adds convenience during extended travel on highways.
The Yamaha FJR1300ES brings reliability and performance to any motorcycling adventure or touring journey.
Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT
The Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT is a great choice for long-distance travel. This bike features a 999cc transverse-mounted fuel-injected inline-four engine, generating 150 horsepower and 78 lb-ft of torque.
Not only does it pack power, but its six-speed manual transmission with an A&S clutch ensures smooth rides on any terrain.
This sport tourer can come with optional hard cases and a top case for all your luggage needs. The base price starts at $13,149 without the hard cases, or $13,799 if you opt for them.
With such specs and versatility, this motorcycle combines performance and practicality in one sleek package.
Indian Pursuit Dark Horse
Meet the Indian Pursuit Dark Horse—a beast made for long rides! This touring motorcycle boasts a powerful PowerPlus Liquid-Cooled 108 cubic-inch V-Twin engine. With 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, this bike ensures you’ll cruise smoothly on highways.
Storage isn’t an issue here. It offers 5.6 cubic feet of space with three hard cases, perfect for your gear, snacks, or even some camping essentials. Priced at $32,799 including destination fees, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about touring motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited stands out with a price tag of $28,729, including the destination fee. It’s powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 114 air-cooled V-Twin engine, delivering an impressive 122 lb-ft of torque and 93 horsepower.
The bike weighs in at a wet weight of 932 pounds but remains surprisingly agile. With comfortable seating for both the rider and rear-seat passenger accommodations, it’s designed for long-distance travel.
This model features premium paints and finishes that are signature to H-D motorcycles. Riders will enjoy advanced electronics like navigation systems and infotainment options integrated into its sleek design.
This is not just any cruiser; it’s built to provide comfort on those lengthy road trips while maintaining that classic Harley flair.
Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak
The Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak roars with a powerful 1158cc V4 engine. This beast delivers 170 hp and 92.2 lb-ft of torque, perfect for high-speed rides on any terrain. Rocking Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires, it provides exceptional grip and stability even during aggressive cornering.
Equipped with Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, the ride feels smooth and responsive. The radar cruise control takes convenience to another level—making long-distance travel less tiring.
With a price tag of $31,595, it’s packed with advanced features like a touchscreen infotainment system that keeps you connected and entertained on your journey.
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R packs a punch with its 1301cc, 160bhp V-twin engine. This adventure motorcycle is perfect for both on-road and off-roading experiences. The bike features a clear, user-friendly 7-inch TFT dash that keeps you informed during long rides.
Its adjustable windscreen ensures comfort in various weather conditions.
A large 6.1-gallon gas tank allows for extended travel without frequent refueling stops, ideal for those long-distance trips. Cornering LED headlights provide better visibility at night, while cruise control makes highway cruising effortless.
This sturdy beast also excels with its cornering capabilities and advanced tech features—ensuring safety and performance blend seamlessly on all terrains.
How to Choose the Best Touring Motorcycle for You
Consider engine size first. A larger engine like 1600 cc can handle long distances and carry more weight. Features such as heated seats, ABS, cruise control, and wind protection can make your ride smoother and safer.
Look for motorcycles with electric windshields and built-in navigation screens like on the Gold Wing or BMW K 1600 GT.
Check the bike’s weight too. Lighter bikes are easier to handle but may lack some comforts of heavier models like Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited or Indian Pursuit Dark Horse. Customizable riding modes also help in adjusting bike settings according to road conditions.
Bluetooth connectivity is a plus for staying connected while traveling without distractions… This way you ensure both comfort and safety during your adventures!