Touring motorcycles are designed for long-distance travel, combining performance with comfort and safety. In recent years, advancements in technology have transformed these bikes into sophisticated machines equipped with features that enhance the riding experience. From adaptive cruise control to advanced navigation systems, these innovations ensure that riders enjoy a smooth and secure journey. In this article, we’ll explore touring motorcycles that stand out for their cutting-edge technology, highlighting how these features make them ideal for both seasoned travelers and those new to the world of touring.
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Honda Gold Wing Tour
The Honda Gold Wing Tour is renowned as one of the most advanced touring motorcycles on the market, offering a suite of high-tech features designed for comfort and safety. It comes equipped with a seven-inch TFT display that integrates navigation, audio, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For safety, the Gold Wing includes advanced features like ABS, Dual Combined Braking System (D-CBS), and a traction control system. The bike also has an innovative airbag option, a first in the motorcycle industry, providing an extra layer of safety in the event of a frontal collision. Additionally, the Gold Wing offers electronically adjustable suspension, heated grips and seats, and a smart key system for added convenience and comfort on long rides.
BMW K 1600 GTL
The BMW K 1600 GTL is a top-tier touring motorcycle that combines luxury with cutting-edge technology. It features a powerful 1,649cc inline-six engine, paired with a comprehensive suite of electronics including Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), which automatically adjusts to riding conditions for optimal comfort. The K 1600 GTL is equipped with ABS Pro and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) for enhanced safety, especially in tricky riding conditions. The bike also offers a full-color 10.25-inch TFT display with integrated navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a multi-controller wheel for easy access to all settings. Comfort features include an adjustable windscreen, heated seats and grips, and a central locking system with alarm functionality.
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited is a classic American touring motorcycle that integrates modern technology for an enhanced riding experience. It features the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), which includes cornering ABS, traction control, and drag-torque slip control to help maintain control in varying conditions. The bike is also equipped with a Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth connectivity. For comfort, the Electra Glide offers a premium heated and ventilated seat, heated grips, and an advanced fairing design that reduces wind buffeting. The bike’s large touring pack provides ample storage, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
Yamaha Star Venture
The Yamaha Star Venture is a luxury touring motorcycle designed with a focus on comfort and cutting-edge technology. It features a 7-inch full-color touchscreen infotainment system that includes navigation, audio controls, and Bluetooth connectivity. For rider and passenger comfort, the Star Venture offers heated seats and grips, a fully adjustable windscreen, and adjustable rider backrest. Safety features include ABS, traction control, and Yamaha’s Sure-Park System, which provides a powered forward and reverse assist for maneuvering the bike in tight spaces. Additionally, the Star Venture’s frame-mounted fairing and adjustable airflow system ensure a smooth and comfortable ride even at high speeds.
Indian Roadmaster
The Indian Roadmaster is a premium touring motorcycle that blends classic American styling with modern technology. It comes equipped with the Ride Command system, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display that offers navigation, audio, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Roadmaster includes advanced safety features such as ABS, keyless ignition, and tire pressure monitoring. For comfort, the bike has heated seats and grips, an electronically adjustable windscreen, and remote-locking saddlebags. The Roadmaster’s plush seating and spacious storage make it an ideal choice for long-distance touring, while its advanced tech features ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS is a touring motorcycle that combines classic cruiser aesthetics with modern safety and comfort features. It’s equipped with Kawasaki’s K-ACT II (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS system, which provides balanced braking force between the front and rear wheels for improved safety. The bike also includes electronic cruise control, a large frame-mounted fairing, and a six-speed transmission with overdrive for smooth highway cruising. Comfort features include a plush, supportive seat, adjustable air suspension, and a full-featured audio system with iPod and SiriusXM compatibility. The Voyager’s spacious saddlebags and trunk offer ample storage for long trips.
Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour
The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour is a sport-touring motorcycle that blends performance with advanced comfort and safety technologies. It features Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) Evo, an electronic suspension system that automatically adjusts to road conditions and riding style. The Multistrada is equipped with cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) for enhanced safety in all conditions. For comfort, the bike offers a touring seat, heated grips, and a comprehensive TFT display that includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable riding modes. The Multistrada’s combination of sporty performance and touring comfort makes it a versatile option for long-distance rides.
BMW R 1250 RT
The BMW R 1250 RT is a sophisticated touring motorcycle that offers a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. It features BMW’s latest ShiftCam technology, which optimizes engine performance and efficiency across a wide range of speeds. The R 1250 RT is equipped with Dynamic ESA, ABS Pro, and Hill Start Control for enhanced safety and control. The bike also offers a full-color 10.25-inch TFT display with navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. Comfort features include an adjustable windscreen, heated seats and grips, and an optional central locking system. The R 1250 RT’s luxurious features and advanced tech make it a top choice for touring enthusiasts.
Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro
The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro is a high-performance adventure-touring motorcycle that comes loaded with advanced technology for both comfort and safety. It features a 7-inch TFT display with My Triumph Connectivity System, offering turn-by-turn navigation, phone and music control, and GoPro integration. The Tiger 1200 GT Pro is equipped with a semi-active suspension system that adjusts to varying road conditions, along with cornering ABS and traction control for enhanced safety. Comfort features include heated grips and seats, an adjustable windscreen, and cruise control. The Tiger 1200 GT Pro’s combination of rugged performance and high-tech comfort makes it an excellent choice for long-distance touring on diverse terrain.
Moto Guzzi California Touring 1400
The Moto Guzzi California Touring 1400 is a classic Italian touring motorcycle that combines traditional styling with modern comfort and safety technologies. It features Moto Guzzi’s Ride-by-Wire system, offering three riding modes (Touring, Sport, and Rain) to adapt to different conditions. The bike is equipped with ABS and traction control, providing enhanced safety on the road. For comfort, the California Touring 1400 includes a plush saddle with lumbar support, heated grips, and an electrically adjustable windscreen. The bike’s large panniers and additional top case provide ample storage, making it a practical and stylish choice for long tours.
Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES
The Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES is an adventure-touring motorcycle that offers advanced technology features designed for both on-road and off-road comfort and safety. It comes equipped with a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that controls the bike’s cornering ABS, traction control, and wheelie control for optimal safety in all conditions. The bike features Showa EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) suspension, which adjusts automatically to different terrains and loads. For comfort, the Africa Twin includes a tall windscreen, heated grips, and an adjustable seat height. The bike’s advanced electronics and rugged design make it a top choice for adventure-touring enthusiasts.
Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited is a luxury touring motorcycle that integrates modern technology with classic Harley-Davidson styling. It features the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), which includes cornering ABS, traction control, and electronic brake control for enhanced safety. The Road Glide Limited is equipped with the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, offering a 6.5-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice recognition. Comfort features include a touring seat with lumbar support, heated grips, and a dual-zone heated seat. The bike’s iconic shark-nose fairing and advanced tech make it a favorite for long-distance touring.
Yamaha FJR1300ES
The Yamaha FJR1300ES is a sport-touring motorcycle that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It features an electronically adjustable suspension system that allows riders to customize the bike’s handling to their preferences and road conditions. The FJR1300ES is equipped with ABS, traction control, and cruise control for enhanced safety and convenience on long rides. The bike also includes a full-featured instrument panel with a digital display, heated grips, and an adjustable windscreen. The FJR1300ES’s responsive handling and comfortable ergonomics make it a popular choice for sport-touring enthusiasts.
Indian Challenger Limited
The Indian Challenger Limited is a powerful touring motorcycle that offers advanced technology features for comfort and safety. It’s equipped with the Ride Command system, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable ride modes. The Challenger Limited includes an advanced traction control system and ABS for enhanced safety. For comfort, the bike offers an adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and a large, cushioned seat. The Challenger’s combination of cutting-edge technology and traditional cruiser styling makes it a standout in the touring motorcycle market.
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S
The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a high-tech adventure-touring motorcycle that offers advanced features for comfort and safety on both paved and unpaved roads. It comes equipped with KTM’s semi-active suspension system, which automatically adjusts damping based on the riding conditions. The bike also features cornering ABS, traction control, and a stability control system that enhances safety during aggressive riding. For comfort, the 1290 Super Adventure S includes a full-color TFT display with integrated navigation, heated grips, and an adjustable windscreen. The bike’s advanced electronics and versatile performance make it a top choice for adventure-touring riders.
BMW K 1600 B
The BMW K 1600 B is a bagger-style touring motorcycle that offers a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. It features BMW’s Dynamic ESA, which provides automatic suspension adjustment based on riding conditions and load. The K 1600 B is equipped with ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control, and Hill Start Control for enhanced safety. The bike also includes a 10.25-inch TFT display with integrated navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a high-end audio system. For comfort, the K 1600 B offers heated seats and grips, an adjustable windscreen, and a reverse assist for easy maneuvering.
Triumph Rocket 3 GT
The Triumph Rocket 3 GT is a powerful touring motorcycle that combines advanced technology with raw power and comfort. It features a 2,500cc inline three-cylinder engine, making it one of the largest and most powerful production motorcycle engines in the world. The Rocket 3 GT includes advanced rider aids like cornering ABS, traction control, and multiple riding modes for enhanced safety. The bike also offers a full-color TFT display with integrated Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and heated grips. For long-distance comfort, the Rocket 3 GT features a sculpted touring seat, adjustable footrests, and a tall windscreen.
Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS
The Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS is a sport-touring motorcycle that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It features a powerful 1,352cc inline-four engine, paired with Kawasaki’s K-ACT ABS system, which provides balanced braking force between the front and rear wheels. The Concours 14 also includes traction control, an electronically adjustable windscreen, and a multi-function display with integrated trip computer and fuel gauge. For rider comfort, the bike offers a spacious, ergonomically designed seat, heated grips, and large saddlebags for ample storage. The Concours 14’s blend of sportbike performance and touring comfort makes it a popular choice for long-distance riders.
Honda ST1300
The Honda ST1300 is a sport-touring motorcycle that has gained a reputation for its comfort, reliability, and advanced technology features. It features a smooth and powerful 1,261cc V4 engine, paired with an electronically adjustable windscreen that provides excellent wind protection. The ST1300 is equipped with ABS, a linked braking system (LBS), and an advanced traction control system for enhanced safety. The bike also includes a full-featured instrument panel with a digital display, adjustable rider seat, and integrated saddlebags for convenient storage. The ST1300’s combination of touring comfort and sportbike performance makes it a versatile option for long-distance riders.
Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited
The Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited is a flagship touring motorcycle that offers a range of advanced technology features for comfort and safety. It features the Reflex Defensive Rider System (RDRS), which includes cornering ABS, traction control, and drag-torque slip control. The bike is also equipped with the Boom! Box GTS infotainment system, offering a 6.5-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice recognition. For rider and passenger comfort, the Ultra Limited includes heated grips, a dual-zone heated seat, and an adjustable windscreen. The bike’s spacious saddlebags and Tour-Pak luggage carrier provide ample storage, making it ideal for long-distance touring.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Adventure
The Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Adventure is an adventure-touring motorcycle that offers advanced technology features for both comfort and safety on and off the road. It features Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System (SIRS), which includes traction control, cruise control, and a hill hold control system for added safety. The bike is also equipped with a full-color TFT display, multiple riding modes, and cornering ABS for enhanced stability. For comfort, the V-Strom 1050XT Adventure includes an adjustable windscreen, comfortable seat, and large, rugged panniers for extended touring. The bike’s advanced electronics and versatile design make it a strong contender in the adventure-touring segment.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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