When it comes to touring motorcycles, finding the best one can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it’s important to choose a bike that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just want a comfortable ride for long distances, investing in a reliable touring motorcycle is key.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 10 touring motorcycles available in the market today. These bikes have been carefully selected based on their performance, comfort, luggage capacity, and overall value for money. So, let’s dive into the world of touring motorcycles and find the perfect bike for your next adventure.
List of Top 10 Touring Bikes
1. BMW M 1000 XR
Starting our list with one of the best touring motorcycles on the market today, the BMW M 1000 XR offers a perfect blend of sportiness and long-distance capabilities. With its powerful engine and exceptional performance, this bike is designed to deliver an exhilarating riding experience while providing comfort and practicality for extended trips.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 999cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, in-line four
– Horsepower: 201 horsepower at 12,750 RPM
– Torque: 83 pounds-feet at 11,100 RPM
– Curb Weight: 492 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The BMW M 1000 XR offers a range of features that make it an ideal choice for touring enthusiasts. It comes equipped with dynamic suspension systems, an aluminium frame and swingarm, various riding modes, heated grips, cruise control, and more. With its sleek design and advanced technology, this bike is sure to turn heads on the road.
2. Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello S
The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello S is a touring motorcycle that combines Italian elegance with exceptional performance. This bike is designed for riders who appreciate classic styling and refined details, making it a symbol of timeless beauty.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 1,042cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, Transversal 90° V-twin
– Horsepower: 115 horsepower at 8,700 RPM
– Torque: 77 pounds-feet at 6,750 RPM
– Curb Weight: 513 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello S offers a comfortable seating position, ample wind protection, and all the necessary hardware for an enjoyable touring experience. With its smooth ride and sophisticated design, this bike is perfect for riders who appreciate both style and performance.
3. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S
If you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for a touring motorcycle that can handle both on-road and off-road terrains, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is the perfect choice. This beast of a machine seamlessly blends sporty performance with off-road capability, making it a versatile option for adventurous souls wanting to go the extra mile.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 1,301cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, V Twin, LC8, 4-stroke
– Horsepower: 160 horsepower
– Torque: 101 pounds-feet
– Curb Weight: 485 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
With its rugged design, ample ground clearance, and long-travel suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S promises to conquer more than just roads. Whether you’re tackling mountain trails or cruising through open highways, this bike delivers optimal handling and control to ensure a thrilling and comfortable ride.
4. Indian Roadmaster
The Indian Roadmaster represents the epitome of luxury as one of the best touring motorcycles on the market. With its timeless design, premium craft skills, and exceptional performance, this bike is a top choice for riders who value comfort and style.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 1,890cc
– Engine Type: Thunderstroke Air Cooled V-twin
– Horsepower: 122 horsepower at 5,500 RPM
– Torque: 128 pounds-feet at 3,800 RPM
– Curb Weight: 877 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Indian Roadmaster offers spacious seating, a wealth of storage options, and a host of modern electronics to enhance your riding experience. With its road presence and outstanding ride quality, this bike guarantees an unforgettable touring experience for riders who appreciate the finer things in life.
5. Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited
For those seeking an updated classic American touring experience, the Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited is an iconic choice. This motorcycle embodies the spirit of freedom and adventure with its unmistakable style and powerful Milwaukee-Eight engine.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 1,868cc
– Engine Type: Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 114
– Horsepower: 100.5 horsepower at 5,020 RPM
– Torque: 122 pounds-feet at 3,000 RPM
– Curb Weight: 880 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited is specifically designed for long-haul journeys, offering luxurious amenities such as heated seats, an infotainment system, and ample storage capacity. With its smooth ride and undeniable presence on the road, this bike guarantees an unparalleled touring experience for riders who appreciate the American heritage.
6. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ combines sporty performance with touring comfort, making it an ideal choice for riders seeking a reliable motorcycle for long-distance travel. With its powerful triple engine and a great package of electronics onboard, this bike offers one of the best ride qualities on the open highway.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 890cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
– Horsepower: 117 horsepower at 10,000 RPM
– Torque: 68.6 pounds-feet at 7,000 RPM
– Curb Weight: 485 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Tracer 9 GT+ boasts convenient features like luggage cases and cruise control, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. With its ergonomic design, adjustable windshield, and spacious seating, this bike is perfect for riders looking to embark on grand adventures.
7. Triumph Bonneville T100
Long before the advent of modern touring motorcycles, riders would take their bone-stock Triumph Bonneville on long-distance trips. The Triumph Bonneville T100 continues this tradition by offering a deceptively simple yet reliable touring machine.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 900cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, SOHC parallel twin
– Horsepower: 64 horsepower at 7,400 RPM
– Torque: 59 pounds-feet at 3,750 RPM
– Curb Weight: 503 lbs
– Transmission: 5-speed
The Triumph Bonneville T100 may not have all the fancy features found in other touring motorcycles but what it lacks in technology it makes up for in character and reliability. With its classic styling and bulletproof engine, this bike is perfect for riders who value the experience of the ride itself.
8. Honda Gold Wing
No list of touring motorcycles would be complete without mentioning the Honda Gold Wing. This flagship tourer from Honda has been a champion in the touring world for decades, offering unmatched comfort and a wide range of features.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 1,833cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 6-cylinder, 4-stroke
– Horsepower: 125 horsepower at 5,500 RPM
– Torque: 130 pounds-feet at 4,500 RPM
– Curb Weight: 804 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Honda Gold Wing is packed with features like an integrated navigation system, an adjustable windshield, a hill start assist, and a spacious trunk for all your storage needs. With its luxurious ride and impressive road presence, this bike is the perfect companion for long-distance adventures.
9. Suzuki V-Strom 800
For riders looking for a reliable and versatile touring motorcycle on a budget, the Suzuki V-Strom 800 is an excellent choice. This bike offers comfort and performance at an affordable price point.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 776cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel-twin
– Horsepower: 83 horsepower at 8,500 RPM
– Torque: 57.2 pounds-feet at 6,800 RPM
– Curb Weight: 492 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Suzuki V-Strom 800 provides a comfortable seating position, an adjustable windscreen, and a quick shifter. Whether you’re planning short weekend trips or embarking on longer adventures, this bike makes touring easy and accessible for riders of all levels.
10. Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT
Last but not least on our list of top touring motorcycles is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT. This bike offers a fantastic balance between sporty performance and touring comfort, making it a popular choice among riders who value versatility.
Key Specifications:
– Displacement: 1,043cc
– Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder, DOHC
– Horsepower: 102 horsepower at 9,000 RPM
– Torque: 75.2 pounds-feet at 7,500 RPM
– Curb Weight: 566.7 lbs
– Transmission: 6-speed
The Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT comes equipped with electronically adjustable suspension, ABS, traction control, integrated side cases, cruise control, and heated grips. With its smooth ride and practical features, this bike is perfect for riders looking to tackle both city streets and open highways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right touring motorcycle is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable long-distance ride. The top 10 touring motorcycles listed above offer a wide range of options to suit various preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a powerful sport-tourer like the BMW M 1000 XR or a classic cruiser like the Triumph Bonneville T100, there’s a bike out there for everyone.
When embarking on your next adventure, it’s important to consider factors such as performance capabilities, luggage capacity, comfort features, and overall value for money. If you need financial assistance in purchasing your dream touring motorcycle, Tata Capital is here to help with its wide range of vehicle loans designed to suit your needs. Tata Capital’s two-wheeler loan can help you get your dream tour motorcycle. Currently, there are attractive rates and charges on two-wheeler loans.
You can check the documents required for a two-wheeler loan here.
So gear up, hit the road with confidence and embark on an unforgettable journey with the best touring motorcycle that suits your style and needs!