What's the best touring motorcycle in 2024? Which one is most suitable for your demand?
Introduction
Touring motorcycles are the perfect companions for long-distance journeys. They offer comfort, power, and storage, making them ideal for exploring new places.
In 2024, manufacturers have introduced some remarkable touring motorcycle models. They cater to different needs and preferences.
Whether you're a beginner, traveling with a partner, a senior rider, or seeking adventure, there’s a touring motorcycle for you.
What is a Touring Motorcycle?
Touring motorcycles are designed for long rides. They have features like comfortable seats, large fuel tanks, and ample storage space.
These bikes often include advanced technology such as GPS and infotainment systems.
The advantages of touring motorcycles include enhanced comfort, better wind protection, and the ability to carry luggage. Therefore, touring motorbikes are always perfect options for extended journeys.
18 Best Touring Motorcycle of 2024
Different riders have different riding demands. So it is hard to define which touring motorcycle is the best option for you.
We will introduce the touring bike choices based on the rider's body height, age, and riding purposes, etc.
Best Touring Motorcycles for Beginners
1. Honda CB500X
Honda CB500X - best touring motorcycle choice for beginners
Key Specs:
- Engine: 471cc, liquid-cooled parallel twin cylinder, DOHC, eight-valve four-stroke
- Bore x stroke: 67 x 66.8mm
- Compression: 10.7:1
- Torque: 43Nm@7000rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed, chain drive
- Seat height: 810mm
- Ground clearance: 170mm
- Wheelbase: 1421mm
- Fuel capacity: 17.5 litres
- Kerb weight: 196kg
The Honda CB500X is an excellent touring motorcycle choice for beginners.
It’s lightweight and easy to handle, with a 471cc engine that provides enough power without being overwhelming.
The bike has a comfortable upright seating position and comes with ABS for added safety.
Besides, its affordability and reliability make it a great entry-level touring motorcycle.
2. Kawasaki Versys-X 300
Kawasaki Versys-X 300 - beginner-friendly touring bike
Specs:
- Engine Type: Parallel Twin, 4-stroke, 8-Valves, DOHC
- Displacement: 296 cc
- Max Torque: 25.7 Nm @ 10000 rpm
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Cooling System: Liquid Cooled
- Valve Per Cylinder: 4
- Starting: Self Start Only
- Compression Ratio: 10.6:1
- Seat Type: Single
- City Mileage: 29.86 kmpl
- Highway Mileage: 27.57 kmpl
- Overall Mileage: 30 kmpl
- Acceleration (0-100 Kmph): 8.3s
- Fuel Capacity: 17 L
- Saddle Height: 815 mm
- Ground Clearance: 180 mm
- Wheelbase: 1450 mm
- Kerb Weight: 184 kg
- 0-100 Kmph (sec): 8.3s
- Top Speed: 132 kmph
The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a versatile and beginner-friendly touring bike.
With a 296cc engine, the Versys-X 300 offers a smooth ride and good fuel efficiency.
Its lightweight frame and long-travel suspension also make it stand out. According to my test riding, this motorbike is easy to maneuver on various terrains.
Besides, the bike also features a comfortable seat and a windscreen for added protection.
3. Suzuki V-Strom 650
Suzuki V-Strom 650
Suzuki V-Strom 650 specs:
- Engine: 645cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90˚ V-twin
- Bore x Stroke: 81.0 mm x 62.6 mm (3.2 in. x 2.5 in.)
- Compression Ratio: 11.2:1
- Clutch: Wet, multi-plate type
- Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.0 L (5.3 US gal.)
- Overall Height: 1405 mm (55.3 in.)
- Wheelbase: 1560 mm (61.4 in.)
- Ground Clearance: 170 mm (6.7 in.)
- Seat Height: 835 mm (32.9 in.)
- Curb Weight: 213 kg (470 lb.)
The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is a solid option for new riders.
It has a 645cc engine that balances power and efficiency. The bike features a comfortable seat and adjustable windscreen, making long rides enjoyable.
It also includes advanced safety features like traction control, which is also the reason I recommend it. These features ensure a secure riding experience when you are having a touring ride.
Suzuki V-Strom 650 Review
Shop Motorcycle Helmet Intercom for Your Touring Ride
Best Touring Motorcycles for Couples
1. Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
Specs:
- Displacement: 1,745 cc
- Engine Type: Milwaukee-Eight® 107
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Max Torque: 150 Nm @ 3250 rpm
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 22.7 L
- Body Type:Tourer Bikes
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is the perfect touring motorbike for couples.
The bike features a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine and an advanced infotainment system. This powerful engine ensures a comfortable and connected ride.
It offers a spacious seat and backrest for the passenger, thus making it suitable for couples.
Besides, it along with ample storage for luggage. For long-distance touring, this will help you a lot.
2. BMW R 1250 RT
BMW R 1250 RT - Best Touring Motorcycles for Couples
Specs:
- Mileage (Overall): 21 kmpl
- Displacement: 1254 cc
- Engine Type: 2-Cylinder-boxer–engine, Air-/coolant Cooled
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Max Power: 135.9 PS @ 7750 rpm
- Max Torque: 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm
- Front Brake: Double Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 25 L
The BMW R 1250 RT is a luxurious touring motorcycle ideal for two.
It boasts a 1254cc engine with smooth performance and excellent fuel efficiency.
The bike includes heated seats, a premium sound system, and a large storage compartment. All the equipment can provide comfort and convenience for couples on long trips.
3. Honda Gold Wing
Honda Gold Wing - top choice touring motorcycle for couples who love touring
Specs:
- Mileage (Overall): 14 kmpl
- Displacement: 1833 cc
- Engine Type: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 24-valve SOHC flat-6 engine
- No. of Cylinders: 6
- Max Power: 126.4 PS @ 5500 rpm
- Max Torque: 170 Nm @ 4500 rpm
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 21.1 L
- Height: 1430 mm
- Saddle Height: 745 mm
- Kerb Weight: 390 kg
The Honda Gold Wing is a top choice for couples who love touring.
It features a powerful 1833cc engine, strong enough for riders to conquer all fields.
Besides, it has a comfortable seating arrangement with armrests for the passenger.
The bike offers a range of amenities, including navigation, a premium audio system, and ample storage.
For couples looking for a comfortable ride, the Honda Gold Wing is worthy.
Shop Helmet Intercom for Touring Motorcycle
Best Touring Motorcycles for Seniors
1. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT
Yamaha Tracer 9 GT - touring motorcycle ideal for senior riders
Specs:
- Engine type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valves, 3-Cylinder, DOHC
- Displacement: 890cc
- Bore x stroke: 78 x 62,1 mm
- Compression ratio: 11,5 : 1
- Maximum power: 87,5 kW (119 PS) @ 10.000 rpm
- Transmission system: Constant Mesh, 6-speed
- Overall height: 1.430 mm - 1.470 mm
- Seat height: 810 mm - 825 mm
- Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank): 220 kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 18.7 L
- Oil tank capacity: 3,5 L
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is ideal for senior riders.
The main reason I recommend it is its light weight design and ergonomic seating position.
This can help reduce fatigue on long rides and bring more suits for senior riders.
Besides, it comes with a 890cc engine and advanced electronic aids like cruise control and heated grips. These technologies can improve the comfort and safety for seniors.
2. Triumph Tiger 900 GT
Triumph Tiger 900 GT
Specs:
- Mileage (Highway): 23.66 kmpl
- Displacement: 888 cc
- Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, in-line 3-cylinder
- No. of Cylinders: 3
- Max Power: 95.2 PS @ 8750 rpm
- Max Torque: 87 Nm @ 7250 rpm
- Front Brake: Double Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 20 L
- Gear Box: 6 speed
- Compression Ratio: 11.27:1
- Highway Mileage: 23.66 kmpl
- Overall Mileage: 19.23 Kmpl
- Acceleration (0-100 Kmph): 4.77s
- Acceleration (0-160): 10.55s
- Saddle Height: 820-840 mm
- Dry Weight: 194 kg
The Triumph Tiger 900 GT offers a smooth and comfortable ride for seniors.
With a 900cc engine, it delivers a balanced performance.
The bike features a low seat height, an easy-to-read display, and adaptive suspension. Thus making it user-friendly and comfortable for older riders.
3. Indian Springfield
Indian Springfield - classic touring motorcycle suitable for seniors
Specs:
- Mileage (Overall): 20 kmpl
- Displacement: 1890 cc
- Engine Type: Thunderstroke 116Max Torque171 Nm @ 3000 rpm
- Front Brake: Double Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 20.8 L
- Gear Box: 6 Speed
- Saddle Height: 660 mm
- Dry Weight: 362 kg
The Indian Springfield is a classic touring motorcycle suitable for seniors.
It has a powerful Thunderstroke 111 engine and a low center of gravity for easy handling.
The bike offers a comfortable seat, spacious saddlebags, and a windscreen, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing ride.
Best Adventure Touring Motorcycles
1. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R - Best Adventure Touring Motorcycles
Specs:
- Engine Displacement: 1301 cm³ - 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°
- Stroke: 71 mm
- Peak Torque: 138Nm Steering Head Angle: 64.7 °
Transmission: 6 speed
- Seat Height: 880 mm
- Power: 158HP
- Fuel Capacity: 23L
- Front Suspension: WP XPLOR-USD, Ø 48 mm
- Weight: 221 kg
The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is built for adventure.
It features a 1301cc engine and robust suspension, making it perfect for off-road and on-road touring.
Besides, the bike includes advanced electronics like traction control and cornering ABS. Hence, this touring motorbike provides a safe and thrilling adventure experience.
2. BMW F 850 GS
BMW F 850 GS - versatile adventure touring motorcycle
Specs:
- Power: 93.7bhp @ 8250rpm
- Torque: 67.9 lbft @ 6250rpm
- Engine type: liquid-cooled 8v parallel twin
- Engine size: 853cc
- Bore/stroke: 84 x 77mm
- Compression ratio: 12.7:1
- Fuel system: Ride by wire, fuel injection
- Clutch: Multi-plate with anti-hopping
- Gearbox: 6-speed
- Wet weight: 229kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 15-litres
- Consumption (claimed): 4.1-litres / 100km
The BMW F 850 GS is a versatile adventure touring motorcycle.
It has an 853cc engine and a rugged build, suitable for various terrains.
The bike features adjustable suspension, advanced GPS capabilities, and ample luggage capacity.
For long-distance adventures, the BMW F 850 GS is an ideal motorcycle for touring.
3. Honda Africa Twin
Honda Africa Twin
Specs:
- Mileage (Overall): 20 kmpl
- Displacement: 1082.96 cc
- Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 4 Stroke, SI Engine
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Max Power: 99.2 PS @ 7500 rpm
- Max Torque: 103 Nm @ 6000 rpm
- Front Brake: Double Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 24.5 L
- Saddle Height: 810-830 mm
- Kerb Weight: 239 kg
The Honda Africa Twin is a legendary adventure touring bike.
With a 1084cc engine, it offers powerful performance and excellent off-road capabilities.
Moreover, the bike includes features like a dual-clutch transmission and multiple riding modes.
All these technologies ensure its adaptability and comfort on any journey.
Best Sport Touring Motorcycles
1. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX - Best Sport Touring Motorcycles
Specs:
- Engine: 4-stroke, In-Line Four, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
- Displacement: 1,043cc
- Bore x Stroke: 77.0 x 56.0mm
- Compression Ratio: 11.8:1
- Transmission: 6-speed, return shift
- Overall Height: 46.9 / 48.2 (windshield High) in
- Ground Clearance: 5.3 in
- Seat Height: 32.3 in
- Curb Weight: 513.8 lb* / 516.0 lb* 50-State Model
- Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gal
The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX combines sportiness with touring capability. It is one of the best sport-touring motorcycles in the market.
It has a 1043cc engine that delivers thrilling performance. The bike features an aerodynamic design, comfortable seating, making long-distance touring more enjoyable.
Besides, it also features advanced electronics like ride modes and cruise control. For spirited long rides, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a perfect option.
2. Yamaha FJR1300
Yamaha FJR1300 - powerful sport touring motorcycle
Specs:
- Engine: 1,298 cc (79.2 cu in) transverse inline-4, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, electronic fuel injection
- Bore/stroke: 79.0 mm × 66.2 mm (3.11 in × 2.61 in)
- Compression ratio: 10.8:1
- Power: 105.5 kW (141.5 hp) @ 8,000 rpm
- Torque: 134.4 N⋅m (99.1 lbf⋅ft) @ 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual (6-speed from 2016), shaft-drive AE/AS: Electronic clutch
- Seat height: 805 mm (31.7 in)
- Weight: 264 kg (582 lb) 291 kg (642 lb)
- Fuel capacity: 25 L (5.5 imp gal; 6.6 US gal)
The Yamaha FJR1300 is a powerful sport touring motorcycle.
It boasts a 1298cc engine and offers a smooth, dynamic ride.
The bike features an electronically adjustable windshield, heated grips, and hard saddlebags.
All the equipment provides both comfort and practicality for sport touring enthusiasts.
3. Ducati SuperSport 950
Ducati SuperSport 950
Specs:
- Mileage (Overall): 17 kmpl
- Displacement: 937 cc
- Engine Type: Testastretta 11°, L-Twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Max Power: 110.1 PS @ 9000 rpm
- Max Torque: 93 Nm @ 6500 rpm
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 16 L
- Gear Box: 6 speed
- Compression Ratio: 12,6± 0.5 :1
- Saddle Height: 810 mm
- Dry Weight: 184 kg
The Ducati SuperSport 950 is designed for those who enjoy sportiness with a touch of touring.
It has a 937cc engine and a sleek design.
What's more, the bike includes features like adjustable suspension and riding modes.
Generally, these features ensure a sporty yet comfortable experience on longer rides.
Best Touring Motorcycles for the Money
1. Yamaha MT-07
Yamaha MT-07 - Touring Motorcycles for the Money
Specs:
- Displacement: 689 cc
- Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves
- Max Power: 73.4 PS @ 8750 rpm
- Max Torque: 67 Nm @ 6500 rpm
- Front Brake: Double Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 14 L
- Gear Box: 6 Speed
- Compression Ratio: 11.5 : 1
- Saddle Height: 805 mm
- Kerb Weight: 184 kg
The Yamaha MT-07 offers great value for money.
It has a 689cc engine and a comfortable riding position.
The bike is lightweight, easy to handle, and provides good fuel economy.
Its affordability and reliability make it a great choice for budget-conscious riders.
2. Kawasaki Vulcan S
Kawasaki Vulcan S - budget-friendly touring motorbike option
Specs:
- Displacement: 649 cc
- Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Max Power: 61 PS @ 7500 rpm
- Max Torque: 62.4Nm @ 6600 rpm
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 14 L
- Gear Box: 6 Speed, Return
- Compression Ratio: 10.8:1
- Saddle Height: 705 mm
- Kerb Weight: 235 kg
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a budget-friendly touring option.
It features a 649cc engine and an adjustable seating arrangement.
The bike’s low seat height and smooth performance make it accessible and enjoyable for all riders, offering excellent value.
3. Suzuki SV650
Suzuki SV650 - economical touring motorcycle
Specs:
- Displacement: 645 cc
- Engine Type: 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC V-Twin
- No. of Cylinders: 2
- Max Power: 76 PS @ 8500 rpm
- Max Torque: 64 Nm @ 8100 rpm
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- Fuel Capacity: 14.5 L
- Gear Box: 6-Speed
- Saddle Height: 785 mm
- Kerb Weight: 198 kg
The Suzuki SV650 is an economical touring motorcycle.
It has a 645cc engine that delivers a balanced performance.
The bike features a comfortable seat and responsive handling. Thus making it suitable for both city and highway riding, all at an affordable price.
Need Motorcycle Helmet Communication System? See Fodsports
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best touring motorcycle for beginners?
The Honda CB500X is a top choice for beginners due to its manageable size and ease of use.
Which touring motorcycle is best for couples?
The Honda Gold Wing offers great comfort and features for couples on long rides.
Are there touring motorcycles suitable for seniors?
Yes, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is excellent for seniors with its ergonomic design and comfort features.
What’s the best adventure touring motorcycle?
The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R stands out for its off-road capabilities and powerful performance.
Which sport touring motorcycle offers the best balance?
The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX provides a perfect blend of sportiness and touring comfort.
What is the most comfortable touring motorcycle?
The Honda Gold Wing is often considered the most comfortable touring motorcycle. Thanks to its plush seating, smooth ride, advanced technology, and ample storage for long-distance travel.
Which motorcycle is best for Travelling?
The BMW R 1250 GS is ideal for traveling. It offers a smooth ride, advanced features, comfortable seating, and versatility for both on-road and off-road adventures.
What type of motorbike is best for long-distance?
Touring motorcycles are best for long-distance travel. They have comfortable seating, ample storage, and advanced features for a smooth and enjoyable ride over extended journeys.
Conclusion
Touring motorcycles in 2024 offers something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned riders.
Whether you're looking for comfort, adventure, or affordability, the right bike can make all the difference.
With options for different touring motorcycles mentioned above, you can find the perfect bike that matches your needs.
Motorcycle mechanic, writer. Interested in motorcycle gear for years. Like to stay up to date with the newest products and techniques of the motorcycle.