Not all bikes are equal. Some are great for going really, really fast. Some rock the trails like Bigfoot on steroids. And some are built for the truly long haul, delivering comfort and performance that eat miles and bring smiles to riders’ faces.
Here at CycleSoup.com we've scoured the current lineups of long-haul machines to bring you our top ten recommendations. Whether you’re a fan of baggers, a sport tourer aficionado, or a cruiser devotee, we’ve found a bike for each and every riding style that’s ideally suited for reaching those far horizons.
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra and Road Glide Ultra – For many, there are no other bikes for eating up miles like Harley’s Electra Glide and Road Glide. Delivering a smooth and mellow ride at even 70 miles per hour, these machines were built for extremely long distances – the real difference being if you’re a fan of a frame mounted fairing as in the case of the Road Glide (above) or prefer one that turns with the handlebars like with the Electra Glide (at top). They’re both outfitted with a Twin-Cooled High-Output Twin Cam 103 engine, dual disc Brembo brakes up front, linked ABS and air suspension. Sure, they’re pricey, starting at nearly $30,000, but for many, there’s no other bike to own.
BMW K1600GT/GTL – With an emblem that’s meant to represent a spinning propeller that hearkens back to the company’s original aircraft engine, BMW has been making motorcycles longer than it has automobiles, and their dedication to bikes remains impressive, especially in regards to the touring segment. A leader in the “super touring” category of motorcycles, the K 1600 GTL model wins top marks in terms of its technology, power, suspension and overall weight. The engineers at BMW have outdone themselves with this bike, outfitting it with an inline six-cylinder engine, as well as keyless ignition, alarm system, and a radio foil aerial that is integrated invisibly into the body of the bike. This motorcycle comes very well equipped at $25,000.
Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS – The venerable Connie has been on the market for a long, long time, and for good reason: it’s lightning fast, all-day comfortable, perfectly reliable, and handles way, way better than a motorcycle of this size has any right to. Some would argue that the Concours has grown a little long in the tooth, as what was once seen as a technological marvel is now much more commonplace compared to other sport tourers, but it’s the tried-and-true nature of this bike that makes it a winner. Standard features include ABS, linked braking, traction control, saddlebags, adjustable windshield, heated grips, proximity key, and more. The 1352cc inline four-cylinder is as potent as it’s always been, with 102 lb-ft. arriving at a low 6,200 rpm.
Indian Roadmaster – Indian’s answer to Harley’s Electra Glide Ultra Classic is its Roadmaster, and what an answer it is. It screams retro but this handcrafted American luxury bagger is as advanced as it gets. Its Thunder Stroke 111 V-Twin delivers 119 ft-lbs of torque and loads of acceleration, yet it can stop on a dime thanks to automotive-grade ABS. Cruise control, premium audio, Bluetooth and an electronically adjustable windshield provide all the creature comforts, and a genuine leather seat with separate heat controls for driver and passenger keeps you comfy for the long haul. Throw in 37 gallons of storage in the trunk, saddlebags and other miscellaneous storage cubbies and this machine has serious cross-country capability. All this can be yours for a touch more than $28,000, but in the end, can you really put a price on this much vintage charm and modern comfort?
Honda Goldwing – It’s hard to believe that the Gold Wing started out in 1975 as a naked 1000cc standard, but over its 40-plus years it’s become an icon of long distance comfort that is second to none. The latest model of the Gold Wing continues this bike’s historic legacy, offering a balance of luxury and performance that appeals to young and old people alike. Known as the “comfort king,” the Gold Wing is powered by a flat six engine that provides strong performance. The GL1800 model is particularly impressive with wide seats, low floorboards, and cutting edge technology. While never the fastest or coolest of the touring motorcycles, the Gold Wing (starting at around $23,000) remains a tour de force in the long-distance motorcycling world.
CanAm Spyder – If a three-wheeled touring motorcycle is more up your alley, the Can-Am Spyder RT Limited might be for you. Admittedly, the handling and form of this bike can take some getting used to, but the durability, stability and comfort of this motorcycle more than make up for some of the adjustments a three-wheeler of this nature requires. The Can-Am Spyder also comes with a ton of storage and seats that are so comfortable they put most other bikes to shame. Some reviewers have called this bike the most comfortable one they’ve ever ridden. With all the available bells and whistles included, this bike will cost north of $30,000. But if comfort is king to you, then it might very well be worth the money to get into this particular motorcycle.
Kawasaki Voyager – Known as the “Big Kawi,” the Voyager has everything needed for a comfortable trek. For just under $20,000, you’ll get comfortable seats for both the driver and a passenger, as well as ample wind protection from an oversized windshield and an impressive 1700 V-Twin engine that is as powerful as most Twin Cam engines found in competing Harley-Davidson bikes. This motorcycle also boasts a powerful stereo and cruise control, and has plenty of storage capacity for carrying people’s gear. Riders love the saddlebags on this motorcycle, and the top case is large enough for two full-face helmets. No wonder this motorcycle is popular with bike enthusiasts everywhere you go.
Yamaha FJR1300 – If sport touring with a side of sexy is more your sort of thing, you owe it to yourself to check out Yamaha’s FJR1300. Like Kawasaki’s Concours, this machine rides more like a sport bike yet it delivers touring comfort. It’s loaded with technology, including an adjustable, two-piece seat; LED front turn signals; quick release luggage mounts; heated grips and folding mirrors, and it has a comparatively low price at $17,500 compared to other touring machines.
Triumph Trophy SE – For luxury and comfort, few motorcycles can match the Triumph Trophy, a machine that’s long been considered among the top of its luxury sport-touring class. Starting at around $19,500 and equipped with a 1215 cc inline triple engine and loaded with high-tech electronics that include traction control, non-linked ABS, cruise control, multiple 12-volt power outlets, and electric windshield and headlight adjustments, this is one bike that is state-of-the-art from front wheel to back, and many optional upgrades are available.
Victory Vision – Few motorcycles are as polarizing as the Vision. Some consider it a work of art, while others see it as a bit of an ugly duckling, yet for long distance touring few bikes can match this machine. The Vision (which starts around $21,000) makes use of an air-/oil-cooled, SOHC Freedom 106-inch V-twin featuring closed-loop fuel injection and an overdrive six-speed gearbox. This bike, with a 66-inch wheelbase, alloy frame, and suspension featuring a 45mm fork and a single shock, has an impressive GVWR of 1,414 pounds. Triple disc brakes are linked rear to front with ABS offered standard in later models. The seamlessly integrated side bags and trunk offer 29 gallons of secure storage. Additional luxury features include cruise control, heated grips, and a height-adjustable windscreen at the touch of a button.
Hear the siren song of the open road calling you to make one of these motorcycles your own? Check out CycleSoup.com to make one of these top tourers your own!