The Best Motorcycle Tourers

1. BMW R1250RT 

The new BMW R1250RT is perfect for the free spirit who wants to explore the unknown. Whether it’s just you and your bike or riding with a partner, this superb motorcycle can seamlessly accommodate two. Its unique BMW Shiftcam ensures smoother, suppler rides. At the same time, you can expect brilliant accelerations and exuberant curve exits. Its brand new dynamic brake control gives you all needed certainty in the case of sudden braking, while the numerous customisation options are the cherry on top of this sumptuous cake. 

Specs 

• Engine: Air/Liquid-cooled twin-cylinder boxer
• Max power output: 100kW 
• Displacement: 1250cc
• Gearbox: 6-speed
• Seat height: 805/825mm 
• Weight: 279kg 

2. Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX

The supercharged Ninja H2 SX, alongside its SE variant, is a sport touring bike designed to rewrite the rules of the category. Combining road racing performance with the riding comfort of a touring motorcycle, it can take you to your destination faster than most touring bikes out there. The SX and SX SE are almost twins, but if you don’t mind dropping some cash, the H2 SX SE comes with tank and side protections, as well as stylish strips on the rims that give the bike a more “racing” touch. 

Specs 

• Engine: Liquid-cooled inline four cylinder 
• Max power output: 147kW 
• Displacement: 998cc
• Gearbox: 6-speed
• Seat height: 835mm 
• Weight: 260kg 

3. Harley Davidson Road King Classic

An essential and nostalgic style enhanced by the power of a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine defines the character of this timeless classic. The Road King is Harley Davidson’s newest signature touring bike, one for the thoughtful soul who dreams of the 60s and who’s not too bothered about performance. If you’d rather ride in company, the unfortunately named Ultra Limited is surely a noteworthy choice.

Specs 

• Engine: Air/Liquid-cooled twin cylinder 
• Max power output: 64kW 
• Displacement: 1745cc
• Gearbox: 6-speed
• Seat height: 715mm 
• Weight: 362kg 

4. KTM Super Duke 1290GT

The new Super Duke 1290GT by KTM takes up the already proven long-distance performance of the previous model and amplifies it with a more powerful V-twin beast. Comfortable for two, this bike impresses with enhanced performance, outstanding sprint capabilities, as well as smooth long-haul riding abilities. It doesn’t come cheap, but it can certainly meet all your riding needs. 

Specs 

• Engine: Liquid-cooled twin cylinder 
• Max power output: 128.7kW 
• Displacement: 1301cc
• Gearbox: 6-speed
• Seat height: 835mm 
• Weight: 209kg 

5. Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT is a wallet-friendly touring motorcycle designed for those who want to settle for nothing less than the best. Fully adjustable suspension, heated grips, and colour matching panniers are just some of the highlights. Quickshifter gear change and cruise control option make it perfect for long-haul riding. 

Specs 

• Engine: Liquid-cooled three cylinder 
• Max power output: 84.6kW 
• Displacement: 847cc
• Gearbox: 6-speed
• Seat height: 845mm 
• Weight: 190kg 

Summary

The best touring motorcycle has everything from urban agility to outstanding top speed and comfortable ride. There are many worthy models on the market, varying in style, performance, and price tag.

Which is the right one for you is a personal matter. Our advice is to visit your local dealer, sit on the saddle, or even take a test drive and see how it feels on the road. No doubt, the perfect touring motorcycle is out there waiting for you.