How to choose the best tourist motorcycle? Features, top models and correct tips for choosing a bike

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. 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.

The best sportbikes

The features of motorcycles of this type include large engines and high speed. Such models are ideal for driving on asphalt or quickly covering long distances, which makes them used in various sports disciplines.

Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon

5

★★★★★ editorial assessment

100% of buyers recommend this product

This model has high engine power and ample control over operating parameters. Among them, systems for monitoring the supply of the fuel-air mixture, braking, and wheel slipping should be highlighted. Driving is made easier by supporting start-up, cornering and slip assist technologies.

The engine capacity is 998 cm³, maximum power is 243 hp. The six-speed dog-ring transmission provides smooth, quick gear changes. The 17-liter fuel tank guarantees a long ride, and the anti-lock braking system makes driving safe.

Advantages:

• powerful engine;
• high speed;
• convenient control;
• large gas tank;
• excellent maneuverability.

Flaws:

high price.

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon is suitable for regular high-speed riding. He will become a faithful partner on professional sports tracks.

Lifan LF200-10P

4.9

★★★★★ editorial assessment

95% of buyers recommend this product

See review

The main feature of the model is economical gasoline consumption - only 2.2 liters per 100 kilometers traveled. Thanks to the fuel tank capacity of 14 liters, the motorcycle can travel more than 600 km without refueling. The carrying capacity of 300 kilograms allows you to easily transport passengers over long distances.

The engine capacity is 198 cc. cm, maximum speed - 120 km/h. Comfort during long rides is ensured by a touring windshield, dual headlights and a massive rear shock absorber.

Advantages:

• high load capacity;
• separate seat;
• high speed;
• economical gasoline consumption;
• quick start.

Flaws:

heavy.

The Lifan LF200-10P is worth purchasing for long trips on flat surfaces and paired motorcycle trips.

Omaks XY250-5A

4.8

★★★★★ editorial assessment

88% of buyers recommend this product

The model has an affordable price and a high driving speed of 140 km/h. This is achieved through the operation of a 250 cc engine. cm and a lightweight design, the main elements of which are made of aluminum and impact-resistant plastic.

The fuel tank volume is 8 liters, gasoline consumption per 100 kilometers is 3.6 liters. The engine can be started using either an electronic or manual starter. The seat has a separate structure for comfortable transportation of passengers.

Advantages:

• high speed;
• small dimensions;
• durable body;
• low fuel consumption;
• electronic CDI.

Flaws:

small gas tank volume.

Omaks XY250-5A is suitable for driving on flat roads or quickly covering long distances. He will perform great on the track.

Falcon Speedfire 250 Sport

4.6

★★★★★ editorial assessment

84% of buyers recommend this product

Despite the high top speed of 140 km/h and engine capacity of 250 cc. cm, the model has low fuel consumption - about 3 liters per 100 kilometers. Thanks to a 12-liter fuel tank, the motorcycle can travel more than 400 km without refueling.

The front and rear suspensions are adjustable for comfortable use by any owner. The motorcyclist has access to a multifunctional dashboard, which has such elements as indicators of neutral, gear engaged, remaining gasoline, as well as a tachometer and speedometer.

Advantages:

• volumetric fuel tank;
• high speed;
• efficient engine cooling;
• individual suspension settings;
• convenient dashboard.

Flaws:

the body is flimsy.

The Falcon Speedfire 250 Sport is perfect for long and fast trips, as well as for participation in sports competitions.

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 2016 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.

What to look for when choosing a motorcycle for the city

There are a number of purely technical criteria that an ideal bike must meet. These are the following characteristics:

• engine power – 20-40 l, to maintain a high level of maneuverability;
• cubic capacity (volume) - from 150-250 cubic meters, more is possible, depending on individual preferences and driving experience;
• weight – in practice, models weighing 70-90 kg perform best; heavier representatives take longer to turn;
• speed – up to 150 km/h, faster transport is no longer so stable and safe;
• engine type – two-stroke or four-stroke; the latter improves fuel consumption but also increases power, making long trips easier.

There are also specific criteria, such as design or cost. We will consider them separately. First, let's take a closer look at the key technical characteristics.

cubic capacity

For a beginner buying his first city bike, it is better to choose a small volume, and only then move on to a more powerful model. However, it would be wise to set some restrictions. For example, the potential of a liter engine will not be revealed in heavy traffic, and it consumes a lot of fuel. Why overpay?

Let's move on to the features of the most common options.

250 cubes

An excellent solution for a “first acquaintance”. Equipment with such an engine is light, maneuverable, user-friendly and as predictable as possible. The design of the vehicle can be spectacular or aggressive.

400 cubes

A very interesting motorcycle category for the city, focused on street riding. With light weight, they can boast a power of 40-55 horsepower and rapid acceleration to 150-180 km/h, and this with economical fuel consumption. The downside is that they are produced for the Japanese market, which means they have to be ordered from there and already with mileage.

600 cubes

An option for experienced riders who feel confident on the road. And also for those who regularly take to highways and other open spaces where they can feel the potential of the engine. The models are reliable and stable, with a weight of 160-190 kg they accelerate to 220-250 km/h and impress with the power of 105-125 horsepower.

Class

When deciding which motorcycle is best to buy for the city, you should focus on the places that you will visit regularly, as well as on your own experience. Based on this, you can decide in favor of one of the following groups.

Road

All kinds of roadsters, street fighters and other lightweight models with a lightweight frame and classic stance. They are maneuverable and therefore perform well in dense traffic conditions. Among the most interesting representatives:

• Kawasaki ER-4N - with a 400 cc engine with 44 horsepower, accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and reaches speeds of up to 170 km/h. Consumes on average up to 4.17 liters per hundred kilometers.
• Ducati Scrambler 2022 - with a V-shaped injection engine and the same 400 cc.
• Yamaha MT-07 - received recognition thanks to its spectacular appearance and torque of 68 Nm (with a power of 75 HP), available already at low speeds.

Sports

Technological, low-slung, ultra-modern appearance, ideal aerodynamics

Attention, these are not the best motorcycles for the city and the highway at once; they are only suitable for high-quality highways. Interesting options from this category are:

Interesting options from this category are:

• Yamaha YZF R6 - with an ABS system and enlarged brake discs, accelerates to about 0 in 3 seconds, maintaining speeds of up to 260 km/h thanks to a power of 180 HP.
• Kawasaki NINJA 250R – With a volume of 250 cubic meters and a weight of 170 kg, it reaches “hundreds” in 7.72 seconds. Convenient for streets due to its ultra-lightness.
• Triumph Daytona 675 - with a 3-cylinder engine, a quickshifter so you don't have to worry about grip, a track function for slipping the rear wheel.

Motards

They become the answer to the question: “Which motorcycle should I buy for the city and beyond?” These are universal all-terrain models that perform well on smooth asphalt, paving stones, dirt roads with potholes and off-road.

Among the typical representatives:

• Honda 400XA is a powerful, yet economical model. That is why it has earned popularity and is actively exported from Japan.
• Yamaha WR 250 X - with rigid suspension, 17-inch wheels, small cubic capacity. A distinctive feature is the weight, almost a record for the class, 136 kg, ensuring lightness and maneuverability.
• Kawasaki Versys 650 is a modification of the ER-6, with an adjustable front fork, long suspension travel, and improved traction. Confidently behaves on any surface.

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.

How to choose a motorcycle for travel?

The question of choosing a suitable motorcycle for tourism is very difficult. It is worth considering that in addition to the cost and brand of the manufacturer, there are a number of criteria that must be followed before making a purchase. Mistakes in choosing can lead to dire consequences, and money spent on purchasing a new “iron” horse can literally be “thrown away.” So, what should you pay attention to first when choosing a touring motorbike:

1. Travel terrain (road surface)

Probably one of the main questions, the answer to which will allow you to decide on the class of the motorcycle. If travel is limited to highway travel, then almost any bike will do. If you need to go onto country roads or have them completely absent, then it is more rational to choose a motorbike adapted for off-road conditions.

1. Motorcycle weight

The smaller the mass of the equipped vehicle (and it should be added from the sum of the masses of the bike itself, driver, passenger and luggage), the better the handling, but the worse the traction. The heaviest models are designed for traveling on highways; for off-road use, it is better to choose lighter options.

1. Travel duration

This factor determines the need for separate luggage compartments. As a rule, they are metal or plastic cases - special cases with attachment to the motorcycle body. The volume of the case in most cases determines the travel distance. For example, when planning a trip over 300 km long, 3 panniers with a total capacity of up to 90 liters are simply necessary. It is worth noting that there are also separate single or dual axle trailers for motorcycles.

1. Availability of passengers

When traveling together, special attention should be paid to the comfort of the passenger seat - first of all, to the seating of the “second number”. For quiet trips, you should opt for heavy and roomy motorcycles; sports motorcycles are often simply cramped for two people.

1. Difficulty of repair

The reliability factor of the car is very important. Will you be able to repair it in the field, and how accessible are spare parts and service centers with qualified specialists? It will be very useful to have electronic diagnostic systems and timely notification of malfunctions, as well as special devices such as a chain lubricator or cruise control.

1. Fuel tank capacity

When choosing a bike, you must not forget about fuel consumption and the possibility of refueling along the route. For traveling in remote places, it is advisable to have a larger reserve in the tank, and an additional canister will certainly not be superfluous.

1. Comfort

These are, first of all, comfortable dimensions and seating with the ability to adjust seats, footrests, etc., good wind protection and the presence of additional “bells and whistles”, such as heated handles. The answer to the question - which motorcycle is better - is quite complex. It is necessary to clearly define not only its purpose and functionality, but also a number of additional criteria. It is worth remembering that there are several types of bikes for touring. More details about them in the next section.

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.

What travel route is planned?

If the trip is planned on normal, flat roads, then there are no restrictions on the choice of transport. If the path runs through villages or other similar areas, choose a motorcycle for travel, which has at least the basic properties of an SUV, which will ensure stable movement. It is possible to drive on a dirt road, but you will need to control the operation of the vehicle; driving must be slow and careful. The choice can be made towards the BMW R1200GSA - a heavy enduro that many travelers purchase.

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.

The best enduro touring bikes in 2022

BMW R1200GS Adventure

A representative of the legendary GS series, which domestic motorcyclists lovingly call “geese”. A very serious unit for long journeys. The R1200GS Adventure compares favorably with its predecessors in its versatility due to the use of several separate control modes, including in rainy weather and when driving on the highway. The motorcycle is equipped with massive engine protection, plastic panels and wide pegs. Separately, it is worth noting the spacious gas tank with a capacity of 30 liters and a modern on-board computer with the ability to navigate and monitor the condition of the “iron horse”. The downside is the usual BMW high cost of both the vehicle itself and regular maintenance and additional accessories.

BMW R1200GS Adventure

Advantages:

• excellent versatility without the need for special knowledge;
• volumetric fuel tank;
• well controlled and maneuverable;
• reliable suspension;
• comfortable straight fit;
• interesting design and ergonomics;
• spacious trunks and topcase.

Flaws:

• expensive maintenance;
• slight vibrations at high speed;
• short speed stroke.

KTM 1190 Adventure

The “civilian” version of the motorcycle is a regular participant in the Dakar rally series, a worthy competitor to BMW cars with its unique design. 148 hp engine and explosive character inherited from a sports bike. Fans of comfortable travel will certainly appreciate the full power package and all-terrain preparation, including a reinforced chassis and anti-lock braking system. This model is simply created to give pleasure to its owner - the most comfortable fit for driving over long distances, adjustable suspension, wide tires and several automatic driving modes.

KTM 1190 Adventure

Advantages:

• good controllability and predictability;
• powerful two-cylinder engine with a volume of 1195 cc;
• comfortable straight fit;
• possibility of adjusting the suspension operating mode;
• excellent visibility in the rearview mirrors;
• smooth, vibration-free engine operation;
• fairly low average consumption;
• efficient and comfortable Brembo brakes with ABS;
• excellent off-road preparation.

Flaws:

• high heat generation from the engine;
• intermittent problems with gear shifting.

Ducati Multistrada 1200 S

The best-selling model of the Multistrada series with a superbike-derived 160 hp engine. A sophisticated electronic control system with several driving modes and suspension adjustments, special Pirelli tires and a stunning design with the signature red color - all this is the Ducatti Multistrada 1200 S. In addition, the model is equipped with a special traction control system and ABS. This option combines the features of a city, sports and touring motorcycle and is truly multi-purpose.

Ducati Multistrada 1200 S

Advantages:

• semi-active suspension with various modes;
• powerful engine with high thrust from the lowest revs;
• variety of driving modes;
• light weight and excellent handling;
• original design;
• good aerodynamics and lack of windage;
• soft clutch and 6-speed gearbox;
• maximum safety;
• official service interval - 24 thousand km;
• large volume of luggage cases.

Flaws:

• complex and expensive repairs;
• high price;
• lack of ability to disable ABS with one button.

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.

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 2022 configuration.

Are you planning to travel alone or with a partner?

A long-distance trip on a motorcycle is always planned taking into account the number of people. This is not only a matter of driver comfort, but also of total weight and other technological characteristics.

When choosing a motorcycle, you should pay attention to heavy and quiet vehicles if the trip involves two people. This option will provide comfort and convenience to all participants (for example, Gold Wing with acceleration of more than 200 km/h). When traveling without a companion, the choice becomes much wider; you can consider various offers from a huge range of motor vehicles.

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.

For connoisseurs of comfort

Nothing better than a full-fledged luxury tourer of the gran turismo class has yet to be invented. Imagine going on a trip, sitting on a comfortable leather sofa with a backrest, heated for everything you can, with a full multimedia system, a spacious suitcase and a bunch of other amenities. Do you like this idea? Then it’s worth taking a closer look at the top tourist models from European, Japanese and American manufacturers.

• Honda GL1800 Gold Wing . Available in two versions, with and without a topcase (GL1800 F6B). Such a device costs from 1.5 million rubles and more; used copies in good condition can be found from about 700 thousand rubles. The Gold has everything you could want, and it is perhaps the ideal motorcycle for traveling as a couple. Unless, of course, you intend to drive off the asphalt onto dirt roads.
• Harley-Davidson Electra Glide. It comes in different versions, the most sophisticated of which is CVO Ultra. “Harley” is not only four centners of chrome-plated pathos, it is also a luxurious engine, an excellent level of comfort, a spacious gas tank combined with modest fuel consumption, reliability and a unique style. But all this pleasure costs a lot of money, on average 2-2.5 million, depending on the configuration. However, used options in acceptable condition can be found for a more modest amount, from 600-700 thousand. An alternative is the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra, built on the same platform. There are also bagger versions, such as Street Glide and simply Road Glide, without the “Ultra” prefix, but they have fewer basic options and simplified suspensions. True, all Harleys are smaller in size than the Japanese ones, so if you need a large motorcycle for travel, it’s better not to look in the direction of the “Americans”.
• Yamaha XV1900 Star Venture . Fresh model, direct competitor to Golda. In the USA they sell for 20-22 thousand dollars, in Russia you can come across almost new bikes for a couple of million rubles. Star Venture is equipped with all sorts of auxiliary stuffing, a phenomenally reliable and high-torque engine from the XV1900 Stratoliner and Raider, a large tank and a 6-speed transmission. Judging by the reviews, this is one of the best motorcycles for traveling long distances.
• Indian Roadmaster . The revived “Indians” brand is produced by the Polaris concern, known not only for its snowmobiles and ATVs, but also for the defunct Victory brand. In many ways, Indianas resemble Harleys, and in terms of performance characteristics they correspond to the Electra Glide. They cost about the same, so the final choice is a matter of taste. In the USA, Indianas are more often bought for show-off than for tourism, so you can look at American auctions for a slightly used copy with minimal mileage and at a more reasonable price.
• BMW GTL 1600 . Bavarian bikes are famous for their incredible number of auxiliary systems and attention to detail. The GTL1600 is a large and massive model that can be roughly called something between a luxury tourer and a sports tourer. It is expensive, comparable to Golda, and even more expensive to maintain. But it’s not for nothing that BMW has so many fans who would never agree to exchange their two-wheeled friends for motorcycles of some other brand.
• Kawasaki VN1700 Voyager . An attempt to create a competitor to Golde, but more budget-friendly, although equipped with everything necessary. Voyager is very heavy, and its center of mass is located quite high, which makes it quite rolly in turns - this must be taken into account when selecting. It's good on the highway, but it's not very comfortable to drive in the city. There is also a bagger modification of the VN1700 Vaquero, but its standard cases are small.

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.

Tips for traveling on a motorcycle

When planning a motorcycle trip, you need to consider many factors. Perhaps our tips will help you ensure the most comfortable trip possible.

1. Plan for the transfer of motorcycles in advance; not many carriers do this.
2. Prepare your bike thoroughly for travel:

• carry out a full technical inspection;
• replace questionable parts;
• tighten the bolts and nuts - they loosen due to vibration;
• prepare a minimum set of tools for possible repairs and maintenance of your motorcycle on the road;
• purchase a sealant or consider other moisture protection for luggage;
• attach additional equipment;
• On the road, refuel in a timely manner, do not wait until the fuel runs out;
• If you are traveling to other countries, read the motorcycle traffic rules in advance.

The choice of a touring motorcycle largely depends on the places where you plan to travel, the condition of the roads, your preferences and, of course, financial capabilities. The main thing is that the motorcycle provides you with maximum comfort and is a reliable assistant.