Rating of the best motorcycles for touring in 2021

Touring motorcycles are designed to cope with the difficult task of combining the character of a bike and the comfort of a car.
Overcoming hundreds and thousands of kilometers, the driver must be confident in the endurance of his “iron horse”. At the same time, you should always have the necessary things at hand, and ideally, if the trip is complemented by good music and an accurate navigation system. Follow us on social networks!

The ideal touring motorcycle is different for everyone. For circumnavigation of the world on smooth asphalt, heavy bikes with a spacious luggage compartment are suitable. Off-road conquerors will come to the aid of light and heavy enduros. Traveling together should take a closer look at models with equal comfort conditions for the driver and passenger. Regardless of the purpose of the trip, bikers travelers always welcome a capacious gas tank, a powerful engine capable of “pulling” the impressive weight of a loaded bike, and pleasant additions in the form of voluminous trunks, luggage racks, a GPS system, high-quality sound, etc.

We have ranked touring motorcycles based on their equipment and the comfort the rider receives. Meet the best bikes that will not distract you from the road, but will become real helpers in covering the distance. You can view current offers on touring motorcycles at our online auction.

Honda NM4-01

Honda NM4-01 is a touring motorcycle straight out of the pages of Japanese anime. It was comic books that inspired Honda's designers and created a rather futuristic concept. Riding such a unique “iron horse”, the biker receives very real characteristics: a 50-horsepower engine, acceleration up to 168 km/h, an ABS system and an automatic transmission. The lifting passenger seat with a slight movement of the hand turns into a comfortable backrest for the driver. For those who like aggressive driving, a sport mode is available. Considering the small volume of the gas tank (11 liters) and compact glove compartments, the model is suitable for those who like to drive out of town on the weekend.

Kawasaki Versys 1000

Kawasaki VERSYS 1000 is a touring SUV that combines daring design and comfortable conditions for the driver and passenger. There is a comfortable seating position, an adjustable windshield, traction control and engine traction control are available. Configurations with ABS are available. At 118 hp the bike reaches speeds of up to 226 km/h. If necessary, you can switch the engine to an economical operating mode, using 75% of the power. The model is convenient for both single trips and trips together.

Honda CRF 1000L AFRICA TWIN

Honda CRF 1000 AFRICA TWIN is a touring enduro and a star of rally marathons and a four-time Paris-Dakar winner. The 2021 liter model is an updated generation of the legend. It has 95 hp, a lightweight frame, an HSTC system that helps adapt to on- and off-road conditions, and an updated transmission. The gas tank holds 18.8 liters of fuel, which according to the manufacturer should be enough for 400 km. ways.

BMW R 1200GS

The BMW R1200GS is a touring enduro that allows you to feel the spirit of freedom without sacrificing comfort. Produced since 2004. The practical “German” is equipped with a 2-cylinder engine, cardan transmission, ABS function and a 30-liter gas tank. And for a comfortable trip along the highway and rough terrain, there are pleasant options:

• Cruise control,
• Hand warmer,
• Fasteners for cases.

The Adventure version will give adventure lovers even more emotions. The configuration has a 33-liter tank, an on-board computer that displays important parameters, “Rain” and “Road” control modes.

Two classes

There is a boom in sportbikes, and more and more people are imbued with the romance of long journeys on motorcycles, and those who like extreme sports are fond of motocross. To choose an off-road motorcycle, you need to decide what tasks will be assigned to it first. If these are comfortable trips, then you should choose from the “enduro” class. If extreme trips are required in areas without asphalt, the choice will be a cross-country motorcycle. There are also models that include elements of both classes.

Kawasaki GTR 1400

Kawasaki GTR 1400 is a Japanese sports tourer produced since 2008. Equipped with a 160-horsepower engine and a 22-liter gas tank. The rider receives excellent controllability - during sharp braking and driving on uneven roads, lifting of the rear wheel is excluded. Among the useful features: starting the bike without a key, adjustable windshield, tire pressure control, ABS, heated steering wheel, adjustable suspension, built-in saddlebags. This touring bike will show you what it can do, even if it's not fresh off the production line. Supported bikes do not lose their capabilities even after hundreds of thousands of kilometers, but it is better if this journey is not made on the roads of the Russian Federation. You can find Kawasaki GTR 1400 and other representatives of the class without mileage in Russia at a Japanese auction. Detailed descriptions, photos and technical reports will help you make a choice.

Types of motorcycles

Like cars, motorcycles do not have one specific type. Dozens of manufacturers are trying to add something special to their product and create unique vehicles. So, there are companies that specialize only in sports bikes, while others prefer to produce motorcycles for long trips.

Cruisers

If a person is looking for a comfortable motorcycle, then it is important for him to pay attention to this representative. There is everything for a pleasant driving experience: from luxurious leather seats with backs and armrests, to wide footrests. Bikes in this category are distinguished not only by convenience, but also by power and traction, so a long trip will be accompanied by only positive emotions and will be easy. Cruisers have one small drawback - they are not designed for off-road driving, only on the highway.

Sports tourists

Motorcycles in this category are designed to combine a passion for speed, a comfortable ride and the ability to travel thousands of kilometers. To achieve these numbers, the manufacturer took the sleek, aerodynamic design of sport bikes, gave it an upright riding position, installed a large windshield, and added some of the extra features found on touring bikes. This decision contributed to the wide demand for models. It is important to understand that sports tourists are intended for an experienced user, because speed remains in the first place here and only then - convenience.

Enduro tourists

There are people who are drawn not by the road, but by the off-road. They experience extremes and it brings them happiness. Not all manufacturers equip their product with the necessary features to overcome difficult terrain without problems, so enduro tourists are bought for these purposes, who ride on country roads with the same confidence as on the highway. The models are comfortable, reliable and develop good speed on the highway. The bike is suitable for people who have chosen the most unusual travel route.

Suzuki GSX 1300 R HAYABUSA

Suzuki GSX 1300 R HAYABUSA is a sports tourer whose name is difficult to remember, but impossible to forget. Hayabusa is the name of a bird of prey, the character and speed of which was adopted by the Japanese bike. Being the fastest bird bike in the world, this Honda reaches a speed of 325 km/h. The owner of a GSX 1300 R from 2008 and younger receives an engine displacement of 1340 cm3, 197 horsepower, 3 power delivery modes, and the S-DMS system, which allows you to instantly switch engine operating modes. The gas tank capacity is 22 liters, which with a declared consumption of 5.88 liters. per 100 km, enough for 374 km of travel.

A few final words

Regardless of your choice, every motorcycle sold on the aftermarket will require further investment. Some – just oil changes, some – all consumables “in a circle”. Most sellers understand this very well and are ready to “throw off” a little for service if there is a reasoned bargain. There is a certain “limit” to this phenomenon, which should not be abused. Owners of used motorcycles often have consumables (tires, spare parts) set aside “for the future,” which they can share “for the load” if they agree on the price. By bargaining culturally, there is a greater chance of saving than by insisting on a discount for urgency or condition. However - don’t go to extremes - don’t take a very “tired” bike because of the attractive price - you’ll spend more on a chain of repairs.

You can protect yourself from buying “scrap metal” simply: first, focus on the average price in the region, second, be sure to watch what you will buy. Involve an expert who repairs motorcycles or, at a minimum, who understands motorcycle equipment.

Yamaha XTZ 1200 SUPER TENERE

Yamaha XTZ 1200 SUPER TENERE is an off-road touring motorcycle that feels confident both on the road and on potholes. Fans of the brand know the Tenere model as the leader of the Paris-Dakar races of the 90s. Since then, the series has been improved and adapted to the needs of the traveler. In addition to 112 hp and a 23-liter fuel tank, the rider receives:

• Electric suspension adjustment,
• Saddle with adaptive height,
• Traction control with three riding modes,
• Intuitive cruise control,
• D-mode software.

Yamaha does not skimp on modern technology, and Tenere is proof of this.

Sports equipment

If the crossbike has all the necessary documents, you can ride it around the city, having previously installed all the missing parts. However, such motorcycles have a narrow seat, so riding long distances is very tiring. It is difficult to drive it for more than a couple of hundred kilometers, besides, large treads on the tires lead to excessive vibrations of the steering fork when driving on asphalt, which, in turn, loads the driver’s hands.

The Chinese IBRIS TTR motorcycle is an excellent option for a beginner. Although these inexpensive models require some modification (usually replacing some parts with similar ones made in Japan). It could also be BaltMotors Enduro 250. Other global manufacturers also have many models for motocross. As a motorcycle for off-road and city use, for example, the Honda CRF250L, which feels great both on the highway and on difficult sections of the road, or the 250 cc Kawasaki KLX250S.

Honda GOLD WING 1800

Honda GOLD WING 1800 – the exterior of this motorcycle inspires confidence even in those who previously traveled only by car. For the first time, models of the “Golden Wing” series rolled off the assembly line in 1974. Good demand contributed to the improvement of GOLD WING and its transformation into luxury “tourists”. Modern models are equipped with more powerful engines (126.5 hp at 5,500 rpm), operating in 4 modes (Tour, Sport, Economy and Rain). And for the comfort and safety of the driver and passenger, they are responsible for: an adjustable windshield, airbags, a torque control system, and an improved CBS braking system. The fuel tank can hold 25 liters. gasoline. Fans of the automatic transmission will love the 2021 configuration.

BMW F800GT

The BMW F800GT is a sports-type touring motorcycle with a dynamic character, which is excellent both in the city and on a country highway or mountain serpentine road. The 90-horsepower 800 cc engine can accelerate the design by more than 200 km/h. At the same time, the manufacturer focuses on safety, equipping the standard configuration with an ABS system, “Road” and “Rain” modes. Electronic suspension adjustment and directional stability control are optionally available. The F800GT's ergonomic design complements its spacious luggage compartments, allowing you to carry everything you need for your trip.

What can you afford for 150 thousand

Let me clarify right away: you can only get a normal bike at such a tempting price if you follow additional recommendations. Before we take a closer look at the what-where-when, I’ll say a few words about mileage. This topic has already been discussed in detail in the article “Is high mileage really that bad for a motorcycle” - read it, if in doubt, then we’ll discuss it in the comments. Briefly, I can justify it this way: motorcycles with a mileage of 40 thousand km are very difficult to sell because most people perceive the kilometers traveled differently - for a car and for two wheels. At the same time, the same people calmly buy a used car for 100K, not considering it a hopeless waste of money. I’ll tell you a secret: most good motorcycles, just like cars, have a service life exceeding 200 and 300 thousand, and a ridiculous 60–70 thousand km - with good service, this is not even a third of it!

What are you getting

Alas, miracles don’t happen and you won’t be offered a new motorcycle so cheaply (well, maybe a children’s Chinese moped, but now we’re talking about more serious things). For this price, it would be a used, but not requiring capital investment, 15-20 year old bike. Slightly worn, possibly previously repaired (suspension and exterior), possibly with light or medium tuning. Motorcycles that are damaged or show signs of wear and tear usually sell for much less, so they do not fall into this category. Although in general, any small defects or changes will play into your hands during the auction.

Where to look for a good bike

Experience shows that for a properly serviced, not “killed” motorcycle that has no problems with docks, you most often have to go to the regions. In Moscow, St. Petersburg and other large cities, a bike “psychologically” cannot cost less than a certain amount, even if it is “junk,” but as soon as you move away from the center, the prices become reasonable.

When to take a motorcycle

In the off-season. Prices fall especially pleasantly in November-December, when many novice motorcyclists are faced with the question of storing a two-wheeler. Some are trying to save money by not renting a box or spending money on conservation, others are naively planning to save up over the winter, and in the spring get something larger or from a different class. In any case, you need to buy a bike at the best price at the end of the season. Yes, the downside is that it is unlikely that you will be able to drive it under your own power (depending on the weather), but the benefits will still be higher than the costs of transportation.

Harley-Davidson ROAD KING CLASSIC

Harley-Davidson ROAD KING CLASSIC is a must-have participant in two-wheeler ratings. After all, many people associate road trips with Harley. In terms of technical specifications, the bike is equipped with a 1690 cc air-cooled engine, manual gearbox, adjustable rear suspension, molded plastic saddlebags with leather trim. Modern models are equipped with a custom information display, a powerful audio system, and a hands-free function for a smartphone. This bike not only becomes the ideal companion for a long trip, but also inspires you to new adventures.

When choosing a touring motorcycle, focus on your needs, the quality of the road surface, planned distances, and the availability of a travel companion. Choose the most suitable bike, and it will perform its best, conquering new horizons with you.

Choose the appropriate option

When a person is eager to buy a motorcycle for long distances, it is important not just to come to the store and purchase the first product that comes across, but to pay some attention to the main criteria. Brand and cost are not always an indicator of reliability and quality, especially when choosing a motorbike for travel, where irresponsibility can lead to dire consequences. In order not to waste money and buy a reliable “iron comrade”, it is important to pay attention to the following criteria:

• Road surface. If a person chooses a quiet and affordable journey on the highway, then 90% of the proposed models are suitable for such purposes. For off-road use, select an appropriate bike that is designed for this purpose.
• Weight. Everything is simple here, the lower the total weight (not only the motorcycle, but also the passenger, bags, and driver are taken into account), the better the handling will be. It is important to understand that in this case traction is sacrificed, but the user will not feel this if traveling on the highway. Heavy motorbikes are designed for off-road use and only there will they reveal their potential.
• Duration of the trip. This factor makes it possible to determine the number of luggage compartments. Most often, they are small or large (depending on the model) metal cases. In some cases, plastic ones are produced. Bags are attached to luggage. For short distance trips – 300 km – three 90-liter panniers are considered the ideal option. If this is not enough, then you need to look at other models.
• Availability of a passenger. If you are planning a trip as a couple, you should buy a model with a comfortable back seat so that the person does not experience difficulties and remembers the trip only on the positive side. For long-distance travel, heavy motorcycles with a comfortable seat and large capacity are a suitable option. Sports options should not be considered.
• Difficulty of repair work. The reliability promised by the seller is good, but a responsible user should not listen, but independently inspect the vehicle and draw conclusions on maintainability, because no one will come from the service center if a person breaks down 1,000 km from the city. This is why it is important that the product has accessible parts and is repairable. It is possible to have an electronic diagnostic system that will immediately notify the user of malfunctions. A useful feature is the automatic chain oiler.
• Fuel tank volume. This is an important point that will make the trip less expensive. If a person buys a motorcycle for traveling in remote areas, then having a spacious fuel tank and low consumption is a must. A place to mount the canister is welcome.
• Comfort. Transport should be comfortable, have normal dimensions, adjustable seats, legs and other pleasant functions. This solution will make even the most difficult and exhausting journey easy.

Answer the question: “Which bike is better?” - difficult. Each person has their own tastes and selection criteria. The market offers not just one model to choose from, but thousands, which also differ by class.