With the number of motorcycles on U.S. roads nearly doubling from 4.3 million in 2002 to 8.8 million in 2023, it’s clear that more and more riders are hitting the open road.1
For those who love long-distance journeys, finding the right motorcycle is essential. These motorcycles are designed to make your long rides as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
1. Honda Gold Wing
Description: The Honda Gold Wing is a legendary touring bike known for its comfort and advanced features. It comes with a powerful flat-six engine, smooth ride quality, and a suite of luxury amenities such as a premium audio system, navigation, and heated grips and seats.
The Gold Wing excels in providing a plush, comfortable ride for long journeys, making it ideal for those who prioritize luxury and technology on their tours. Its size and weight, however, may make it less maneuverable in tight spots.
2. BMW K 1600 GT
Description: The BMW K 1600 GT boasts a 1,649cc inline-six engine that delivers impressive power and smoothness. It features advanced electronics, a well-appointed cockpit, and high-quality materials throughout.
Known for its performance and handling, the K 1600 GT is a great choice for riders who want a blend of power and comfort. Its sophisticated technology and customizable settings enhance the touring experience, though it comes with a higher price tag.
3. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
Description: The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is a rugged, versatile bike equipped with a 1,254cc boxer engine and advanced off-road capabilities. It has long-travel suspension, large fuel tank, and a range of rider aids.
Perfect for riders who might venture off the beaten path, the R 1250 GS Adventure offers a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Its large size and weight might be challenging for some, but it excels in durability and versatility.
4. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT
Description: The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT features a 1,301cc V-twin engine known for its power and responsiveness. It has sporty handling and comes with modern electronics, including cruise control and adjustable suspension.
This bike combines sportiness with touring capability, offering a thrilling ride with plenty of features for long-distance comfort. Its aggressive design and sporty nature might appeal more to those who enjoy a more dynamic riding experience.
5. Honda Africa Twin
Description: The Honda Africa Twin is a versatile adventure bike with a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine. It’s designed for both on-road and off-road riding, featuring long-travel suspension, a comfortable seat, and an optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) for easier handling.
Ideal for riders who want a mix of touring and off-road capability, the Africa Twin provides a balanced ride with excellent ergonomics. Its adventure-oriented design might not offer the same level of road comfort as some dedicated touring bikes, but it’s a great all-rounder.
6. Yamaha FJR1300ES
Description: The Yamaha FJR1300ES comes with a 1,298cc inline-four engine and offers a high level of comfort and performance. It includes electronically adjustable suspension, cruise control, and a spacious riding position.
The FJR1300ES is well-regarded for its blend of power, comfort, and advanced features. It’s a solid choice for long-distance riders who appreciate a sporty yet comfortable ride. Its size and weight make it a bit cumbersome for city riding, but it excels on highways.
7. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250
Description: The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 is Harley’s entry into the adventure touring market. It features a 1,250cc V-twin engine, adjustable suspension, and a range of electronics including cornering ABS and traction control.
This bike is designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions, making it versatile for different touring scenarios. The Pan America 1250’s distinctive design and strong low-end torque are appealing, though its weight and size might be a consideration for some riders.
8. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT
Description: The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is a sport-touring bike equipped with a 890cc triple engine. It features adjustable suspension, cruise control, and a comprehensive electronics package, including a quick-shifter and multiple riding modes.
The Tracer 9 GT is well-suited for riders looking for a mix of excitement and practicality on long trips. The bike’s nimble handling and technology make it a strong contender in the sport-touring segment.
9. Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT
Description: The Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT is a sport-touring machine with a 1,036cc inline-four engine. It comes with features like a full-color TFT display, electronic cruise control, and adjustable suspension, designed for both performance and comfort.
This bike is designed for riders who want a sporty touring experience with ample power and advanced features. It offers a good balance of performance and comfort, making it suitable for long-distance rides while still providing a dynamic ride.
10. Indian Pursuit Dark Horse
Description: The Indian Pursuit Dark Horse is a heavyweight touring bike featuring a 1,768cc V-twin engine. It includes luxury amenities such as a premium audio system, heated grips, and a full suite of electronic rider aids, including adaptive cruise control and multiple riding modes.
This bike is built with a powerful engine and advanced features, making it a great choice for long-distance riders who prioritize comfort and high-tech amenities. The Pursuit Dark Horse’s large size and weight are suited for highway cruising and touring, though it might be less nimble in city traffic.
11. Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
Description: The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited is a heavyweight touring bike with a 1,745cc Milwaukee-Eight V-twin engine. It features a distinctive shark-nose fairing, advanced infotainment system, and luxurious comfort amenities like heated grips, a premium audio system, and adjustable suspension.
Known for its classic touring style and strong performance, the Road Glide Limited excels in providing a comfortable, long-distance ride with plenty of features. The bike’s size and weight contribute to a smooth ride but might make it less agile in urban environments.
12. Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak
Description: The Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is a high-performance adventure touring bike with a 1,158cc V4 engine. It includes advanced electronics, such as adaptive cruise control, a sophisticated rider aid package, and top-notch suspension components designed for both on-road and off-road performance.
This bike offers a blend of sportiness and touring capability, providing an exhilarating ride with excellent handling and advanced technology.
It’s well-suited for riders who want a performance-oriented touring experience with the ability to handle a variety of road conditions. Its sporty nature and advanced features come at a premium price.
13. Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE
Description: The Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE features a 998cc supercharged inline-four engine, designed for high performance and long-distance touring. It comes with advanced electronics, including adaptive cruise control, a quick-shifter, and a comprehensive suite of rider aids, along with a well-designed aerodynamic fairing.
The Ninja H2 SX SE stands out for its impressive power and advanced features, combining high-speed performance with touring comfort.
Its supercharged engine offers exceptional acceleration, and the advanced electronics enhance the touring experience, though its sporty focus might not cater to those seeking a more traditional touring setup.
Each of these bikes has its unique strengths and is tailored to different types of long-distance touring needs.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
