Are you feeling the call of the open road, the thrill of adventure, the anticipation of unexplored places just waiting beyond the next bend? There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a long-distance motorcycle journey, with the world rushing by in a symphony of sights, sounds, and smells. But not all motorcycles are created equal when it comes to long-haul travel.
From classic American cruisers to cutting-edge sport-touring bikes, we’re about to embark on a journey through the world of motorcycling, where comfort, performance, and cargo capacity reign supreme. These road-ready warriors, equipped with the latest technologies and luxuries, are designed to devour mile after mile easily.
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BMW R1250RT
The BMW R1250RT is an excellent choice for long-distance trips, equipped with a 1,254cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers a perfect balance of performance and efficiency. It boasts ShiftCam Technology that varies the valve stroke on the intake side for increased power across the entire engine speed range. The bike features a comfortable seating position, a large electrically adjustable windshield for superior wind and weather protection, and the latest tech, including a full-color TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity.
Honda Gold Wing Tour
Known for its ultimate comfort, the Honda Gold Wing Tour offers a spacious cockpit, a large adjustable windscreen, and heated grips and seats. It has a flat-six engine for smooth, effortless power and advanced electronics for navigation and entertainment. Plus, it has a trunk providing ample storage for long trips.
Indian Roadmaster
Indian Roadmaster is a powerful, comfortable touring bike with a 1,811cc V-twin engine. It has a well-cushioned seat, adjustable floorboards, and a full fairing with a large windscreen. Its Ride Command System includes navigation, while the heated grips and seats ensure comfort in cooler temperatures. The Roadmaster offers plenty of luggage space with its trunk and saddlebags.
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is a classic American touring bike with a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine that provides excellent torque for highway cruising. Its Batwing fairing offers wind and weather protection, while the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system offers navigation and music. The comfortable seat, spacious saddlebags, and suspension that’s well-tuned for long rides make it perfect for extended trips.
Yamaha FJR1300ES
Yamaha’s FJR1300ES is an advanced sport-touring motorcycle that offers a superb riding experience. Its 1,298cc inline-four engine is smooth and powerful, while its electronically adjustable suspension can be tuned for load or preference. The electrically adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and integrated side cases make it a suitable option for long trips.
Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
The Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS blends Kawasaki’s cruiser styling with all the features you’d expect in a touring bike. It has a robust 1,700cc V-twin engine, a large frame-mounted fairing, and a comfortable seat with a backrest. With cruise control, a high-quality audio system, and substantial luggage capacity, it’s an excellent choice for long rides.
BMW K1600GT
BMW’s K1600GT features a potent 1,649cc inline-six engine that delivers smooth power, making it a fantastic choice for covering vast distances quickly. With three driving modes (Rain, Road, and Dynamic), an adjustable windscreen, and a comfortable seating position, it provides an exceptional touring experience. The K1600GT also boasts advanced tech like adaptive headlights, a color TFT display, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT
The Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT is a versatile adventure touring motorcycle suitable for long trips. Its 1,037cc V-twin engine delivers smooth power, while its tall windscreen and adjustable suspension enhance comfort over long distances. Features such as cruise control, a comfortable seat, a large fuel tank, and ample luggage capacity make it ideal for touring.
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT
The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a powerful sport-touring motorcycle equipped with a 1,301cc V-twin engine that provides exhilarating performance. Despite its sporty nature, it’s comfortable over long distances, with an adjustable windscreen, comfortable seat, and semi-active suspension. It also features multiple ride modes, a quick shifter, and cruise control.
Harley-Davidson Road Glide
The Road Glide is another gem from Harley-Davidson with a frame-mounted fairing that reduces steering weight, making it easier to handle on long trips. Its Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine offers solid torque output, and the large saddlebags provide ample storage space. The Boom! Box infotainment system keeps you entertained on the road.
BMW R1250GS Adventure
Designed for extreme adventure touring, the R1250GS Adventure has a boxer twin engine and provides a comfortable upright seating position. The large fuel tank extends the motorcycle’s range significantly, and the variable camshaft control BMW ShiftCam offers superior running smoothness and efficiency. Its windscreen, handlebar, and saddle are all adjustable for maximum comfort.
Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES
The Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES is an off-road capable tourer with a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine. It features a large 6.5-gallon fuel tank, a broad and tall windscreen, and Apple CarPlay compatible touch-panel LCD screen. Adjustable suspension and multiple riding modes make it versatile for various terrains and conditions.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
