Few things are as thrilling as riding a motorcycle on a road trip.  However, to get the most from the experience, it’s essential to have a bike built for long-distance travel. When choosing the right bike, it’s important to consider comfort and performance. 

 

Manufacturers sell a wide range of motorcycles, including luxury touring and sport-touring models. Whether riders are focused on ease and comfort or are more interested in precision, speed, and performance, they have a range of choices.

 

Every motorcycle expert and enthusiast has a different opinion about which bike makes the best long-distance ride. The following list includes motorcycles that consistently rank as top picks, and there is something for every riding style.

 

1. 2022 Indian Pursuit

 

The 2022 Indian Pursuit is one of the top bikes in the luxury touring class. Its 1,768cc PowerPlus V-twin engine has a power output of 120 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of peak torque.

 

Its lightweight aluminum frame makes this bike one of the lighter models in its class. The Indian Pursuit includes a sporty suspension package, and you can adjust the suspension from a touch-screen display. This motorcycle comes with an array of bells and whistles, including a power windshield, heated seats, and a 200-watt audio system.

 

2. 2020 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide

 

Harley-Davidson has always been associated with quality motorcycles, and the 2020 Electra Glide is no exception. It is ergonomically designed and a spectacular ride created for long trips and smooth journeys.

 

The bike includes GPS, Infotainment, a one-touch saddlebag, and a powerful engine. Its seating position allows for excellent control, and the motorcycle is outstanding on freeways.

 

3. Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT

 

The Gold Wing is one of Honda’s oldest and most respected motorcycle lines. Designed to meet the demand for luxurious, dependable long-distance bike touring, it has made it possible for millions of people to ride more miles.

 

Voted the world’s best Touring bike by Cycle World, The Gold Wing Tour DC has been considered one of the best touring motorcycles for decades. It handles well at any speed, has excellent fuel economy, and includes several storage options. The bike also has exceptional braking performance and is one of the most comfortable on the market. 

 

4. BMW R 1250 GS

 

The BMW R 1250 GS is a touring bike with adjustable handlebars and seating positions that provide drivers with exceptional control and unhampered visibility. This motorcycle is known for its versatility and is one of the most comfortable models on the market, making it perfect for long trips. It performs well in the city and on long stretches of road.

 

As you might expect from a BMW motorcycle, the bike is beautifully finished and features exquisite attention to detail. It rides like a very comfortable, oversized dirt bike. The powerful engine delivers 91.5 pound-feet torque at 6,510 rpm and over 117 hp at 7,770 rpm

 

5. Indian Roadmaster

 

The Indian Motorcycle Company made the country’s first motorcycles and has continued to improve its models through the years. According to Hot Cars experts, today’s Indian Roadmaster reflects the company’s reputation for creating the best.

 

The Roadmaster is a magnificent machine powered by an 1811 cc V-twin engine. It is equipped with 140-liters of cargo space and a heated seat. Premium features include cruise control, an adjustable windshield, an infotainment system, and keyless ignition.

 

6. Ducati Multistrada 1260

 

Italian manufacturer Ducati has built comfort and their trademark performance into the Multistrada 1260. The bike is engineered to move like sportier, smaller bikes despite its luxury look.

 

The Ducati is practical and powerful, with a high-performance engine capable of taking hairpin turns with ease. It’s also loaded with all the latest tech. 

 

7. Yamaha V Star 1300 Tourer

 

The Coolist recommends the Yamaha V Star 1300 for beginners and anyone who wants a reasonably priced tour bike that can be customized on the go. It features a removable windscreen and a flappable backrest that makes it easy to change things quickly and easily. The bike’s belt final drive reduces noise and maintenance.

 

A mid-size touring bike, the Yamaha V Star 1300 Tourer is still small enough that riders don’t need to wrestle with it, and it has plenty of storage. It includes an 80-cubic-inch engine that provides all the power you need without being intimidating. The low seat height, and center of gravity also make handling easy.

 

8. Harley-Davidson Iron 883

 

An icon of the Harley-Davidson Dark Custom style, the Iron 883 is a classic example of the style’s raw, blacked-out, stripped-down appearance. 

 

It is a sportster bike and ideal for the new rider who’s just getting into Harley. The 883c V-twin has 49hp and 54 lb-ft of torque, making it easier for beginners to handle the bike while getting used to the powerful engine. Because it’s a Harley, the Iron 883 includes a comfortable seat that makes cruising a pleasure.

 

9.  Honda Rebel 500

 

A member of the classic Honda 500cc bike series, the Rebel 500 has a 471 parallel-twin engine capable of producing 46hp and 32 lb-ft of torque. 

 

This beautiful bike was engineered to be fun and friendly for new, smaller riders. The ultra-soft seat provides luxurious comfort for people under 6 feet and 200 pounds. Because there are few distractions, beginners can focus and enjoy the ride. It is an exceptionally fuel-effi­cient motorcycle.

 

10. Triumph Tiger Explorer XRT

 

This bike has something for nearly everyone. It’s a touring beast with a powerful 1200 cc, 12-valve, in-line, 3-cylinder DOHC engine that puts out 139 horses at 9,350 rpm. The Triumph Tiger offers all the thrills of a high-performance motorcycle without skimping on comfort.

 

Heated driver and passenger seats are standard on this state-of-art British motorcycle. It features four preset riding modes and a programmable single rider mode for a custom riding experience.

 

Whether you are searching for the ultimate in luxury long-distance touring motorcycles or want to focus on performance and agility, there is a bike for you. Manufacturers like Honda, Harley, BMW, and Triumph offer a wide range of sporty and luxury motorcycles ideal for long-distance trips.