6 Best Touring Motorcycles in 2025 for Long-Distance Comfort & Performance

The best touring motorcycles are built to handle any adventure that comes your way on the open road.

Every motorcycle has its own purpose. Some are made for the city, while others can take on more challenging terrains. If you’re looking forward to your next touring trip, then you need to invest in the right touring bikes. The right choice will keep you safe and provide relative comfort on your next adventure.

While the touring category only gets wider as years pass, that only leaves us a lot of models to choose from. Let’s take a look at the 6 touring motorcycles and the common features that set them apart. Be it a classic sport touring bike with a sporty feel or a laid-back touring machine, here are the top tourers you need for your next ride in 2025.

1. Honda Gold Wing

The 1970s weren’t only iconic culturally; they also saw the birth of the Honda Gold Wing in 1975, a true legend in the touring segment.

Loved for its comfort and smooth performance, the Gold Wing started with a 999cc flat-four engine and shaft drive. Today, the gold wing tour boasts a 1,833cc liquid cooled, six cylinder engine with 24 valves, rider modes, and modern features such as optional electronic suspension.

Despite its powerful boxer engine producing 188 horsepower and 123 lb ft of torque, it’s lighter than the previous year models, keeping its center of gravity low for easier handling.

Comfort features include premium entertainment systems, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, a 7-inch navigation display, slipper clutch, walking mode, cruise control, dual-combined brakes, heated grips, an electronic windshield, and luggage capacity that ensures long distance comfort.

No wonder the Honda Gold Wing remains one of the most reliable touring bikes riders can expect in 2025.

2. Indian Roadmaster

Indian has earned a strong reputation, often seen as a worthy rival to Harley Davidson. The Indian Roadmaster is a powerful, full-dress touring machine that stands out with its premium comfort features and classic style.

Larger than the Harley Electra Glide, it offers excellent handling and impressive storage space with saddlebags. The leather passenger seats ensure long rides are covered with relative comfort.

Powered by a 1,890cc V-Twin engine producing 100bhp, it ensures smooth cruising with strong torque. Standard equipment includes heated seats with individual controls, keyless start, push-button adjustable windshields, remote-locking luggage, integrated GPS, tire pressure monitoring system, Bluetooth, and Pandora® integration.

A luxurious tourer for riders who want both style and safety.

3. BMW K1600GTL

If you liked the Roadmaster, you’ll love another full-dress touring motorcycle: the BMW K1600GTL.

Launched in 2011, this touring machine features a 1,649cc six cylinder engine with variable valve timing, delivering 160 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque.

Despite its size and extra weight, it handles serpentine roads and highways with ease thanks to its electronic suspension and multiple rider aids. Riders can fine-tune the suspension settings to match their riding style or the demands of winding roads.

Standard equipment includes heated seats, ABS Pro, Xenon headlights, clutchless shifting, and reverse-assist. Add in long distance comfort, advanced safety features, and luggage capacity, and it’s clear this tourer dominates the touring segment.

4. Harley-Davidson Road Glide

It’s not a list of the best touring motorcycles without Harley Davidson, and the Road Glide remains an icon.

Unlike the Street Glide, the Road Glide features a frame-mounted shark-nosed fairing and dual headlights, offering better wind protection and storage space for long rides.

Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107, a 1,753cc V-Twin engine producing about 76 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque, it delivers both power and the unmistakable Harley sound on two wheels.

This touring bike offers comfort features like an upright riding style, floorboards, spacious passenger seat, and saddlebags. It also includes cruise control, ABS, advanced rider aids, and Harley’s premium entertainment systems, making it a classic touring machine.

5. Kawasaki Versys 1000

Compared to the other entries, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 looks more like a street bike, but it has earned its place in the touring category.

Originally overlooked due to its unusual style, it’s now appreciated for its balanced performance and reliable design.

The 1,000cc four-cylinder engine produces 116 horsepower, delivering both speed and power with a sporty feel. Upright riding style, comfort features, and long distance comfort make it ideal for long rides.

Newer models include KECS (Kawasaki Electronically-Controlled Suspension), an optional electronic suspension system that adapts to winding roads or rough terrain. Riders also get the Kawasaki Quick Shifter for clutchless gear changes, boosting performance on both highways and serpentine roads.

For those who want a versatile sport touring motorcycle, this is a reliable choice worth a test ride.

6. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT blends sport touring with long-distance touring. Known for performance and safety, it’s one of the touring motorcycles with the highest price but also top-tier features.

Its 1,301cc V-Twin engine generates 173 horsepower, paired with a 6.1-gallon fuel tank for better fuel economy. This sport touring bike balances speed, power, and comfort features for riders covering serious miles.

Key modern features include titanium valves, semi-active suspension, quick shifter, Bosch MSC lean-angle-sensitive ABS, traction control, cruise control, Hill Hold Control, and heated grips. The inclusion of a six axis imu and even rear facing radar boosts rider safety further.

It also integrates Vigo Smart Track, a system that logs rides, monitors safety, and sends crash alerts to emergency contacts, making this touring bike a reliable option for long rides across highways or off road adventure detours.

Best Touring Motorcycles Guide & FAQs

What are Touring Motorcycles?

Touring bikes see long-distance riding as a piece of cake. It has features and amenities such as storage made just for that.

These bikes are made for the open road. That said, they’re generally big motorcycles. However, it also comes with very powerful engines. It can handle long rides and carry the weight of luggage and even a passenger.

The rule of thumb when it comes to these is simple. The more you carry with you, be it luggage or a person, the stronger the engine and bigger the size should be.

Given that, touring motorcycles aren’t for everyone. New bikers may have a hard time handling such a big bike. But it’s something that takes practice. The more you ride, the better you handle any bike.

Types of Touring Motorcycles

As years passed, the term touring motorcycle became an umbrella of different types of bikes. So, you have various types to look out for. Here are three of the most common types of touring bikes.

Adventure Touring Motorcycle

Since you’re looking for a touring bike, you’re most likely headed for a long-distance ride. An adventure tourer is usually popular among bikers. It can handle both off-road and on-road riding. So, you can traverse just about any terrain with ease. Adventure touring motorcycles combine features of conventional touring bikes and dual-sport bikes, allowing for both on-road and off-road capabilities.

Sport Touring Motorcycle

If you’re looking to ride fast for long distances, you might want to consider a sport-touring bike. It usually comes with a more aerodynamic design but is still great for comfort.

Full-Dress Touring Motorcycle

Not all adventures require going through rough roads and terrains. If your next tour only has paved roads ahead then a full-dress touring motorcycle is for you. They usually have large windshields and even better accessories and amenities. Such bikes usually have better storage space and even a passenger seat.

Cruiser Touring Motorcycle

Cruiser touring motorcycles are lightweight and often feature classic styling with the ability to carry luggage. They are designed for riders who prefer a more relaxed and laid-back riding experience while still having the practicality needed for touring. These motorcycles typically come with comfortable seats and a lower riding position, making them suitable for shorter trips or casual long-distance rides. While they may lack some of the advanced electronics and extensive storage options found on larger touring bikes, cruiser tourers offer enough features to make them enjoyable and functional. Their classic look combined with touring capabilities makes them a popular choice among riders who value style and comfort on the road.

What to Look for in Touring Motorcycles

Users are seeking information on essential features and specifications that make a motorcycle suitable for touring, such as comfort, storage capacity, and advanced electronics.

Engine

The engine is a crucial feature to consider. A popular choice for touring bikes is the powerful V-Twin engine, ideal for long-distance travel with minimal servicing. If the bike you’re interested in doesn’t have a V-Twin, check its cylinder capacity. Generally, 750cc is sufficient for standard touring, suitable for daily commutes and occasional long rides. Larger engines, like the V-Twin, are common among tourers, providing smooth cruising at highway speeds for extended trips.

Fuel Economy

Long-distance rides require better fuel economy. Most touring motorcycles offer exactly just this so that you don’t need to make a pitstop every so often to fill up your tank. The average fuel capacity of tourers sits at around 40 miles per gallon.

Riding Position

You should always ride in a comfortable position, especially for long rides. A tourer must have an upright seat and even a backrest. It also has foot pegs so you can rest your feet in a comfortable position.

Fuel Tank Capacity

A large fuel tank capacity contributes to long-distance riding without frequent refueling stops. This is especially important for touring motorcycles, as riders often cover hundreds of miles in a single day. A bigger fuel tank means fewer interruptions, allowing for a more enjoyable and continuous ride. It also provides peace of mind when traveling through remote areas where gas stations may be sparse.

Advanced Electronics

Modern touring motorcycles feature advanced electronics such as ABS and traction control. Traction control helps maintain control on varied or slippery surfaces, enhancing rider safety. These bikes often include rider aids like adaptive cruise control and multiple rider modes to improve the riding experience. Together, these modern features make touring motorcycles more reliable and comfortable for long-distance journeys.

Windshield

Adjustable windshields enhance rider comfort by minimizing wind turbulence, which is especially important during long rides. They allow riders to customize the height and angle of the windshield to suit different riding conditions and personal preferences. By reducing wind buffeting, these windshields help decrease fatigue and improve overall ride quality. This feature is a common and valuable addition to many touring motorcycles, contributing significantly to long-distance comfort.

Cruise Control

Cruise control is a standard feature that aids comfort during long rides. It allows riders to maintain a steady speed without constantly using the throttle, reducing fatigue on extended journeys. This feature is especially beneficial on highways and open roads where consistent speed is key. Many modern touring motorcycles also offer adaptive cruise control, which can automatically adjust speed based on traffic conditions for added safety and convenience.

TFT Display

Many touring motorcycles come with a full-color TFT display that integrates navigation and other electronics. These displays provide clear, easy-to-read information that helps riders stay informed without distraction. They often support smartphone connectivity, allowing access to calls, music, and GPS directions directly on the screen. This integration enhances convenience and safety during long rides.

Connectivity

Modern touring motorcycles may feature integrated GPS, Bluetooth connectivity for helmets, and premium sound systems. These features enhance the riding experience by providing easy access to navigation and entertainment without distractions. Many models also include smartphone integration, allowing riders to manage calls, music, and messages directly from the bike’s display. Together, these technologies contribute to safer and more enjoyable long-distance rides.

Rider-Assistance

Advanced rider-assistance technologies can provide additional support in challenging conditions, enhancing rider safety and confidence. These systems may include features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, and collision warning, which help riders navigate complex traffic situations more effectively. By integrating sensors and smart algorithms, these technologies can react faster than human reflexes, reducing the risk of accidents. Overall, advanced rider aids contribute to a safer and more enjoyable riding experience, especially on long-distance tours and unpredictable roadways.

Safety

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) enhance safety by preventing wheel lock-up, especially during sudden braking or on slippery surfaces. This technology helps riders maintain control and stability, reducing the risk of accidents. ABS is now a standard feature on most modern touring motorcycles, reflecting its importance in rider safety. Combined with other advanced rider aids, ABS contributes significantly to a safer and more confident riding experience.

Storage

Integrated luggage like side-mounted panniers and a top case is common in touring models for secure storage. These storage compartments are designed to be spacious and weather-resistant, allowing riders to carry essential gear and personal items safely on long journeys. Many touring motorcycles also feature lockable luggage to protect belongings when parked. This convenient storage setup ensures that riders can travel comfortably without worrying about extra baggage or security.

High-tech Features

High-tech features like semi-active suspension can automatically adjust to the road in real-time, providing a smoother and more controlled ride. This technology adapts to varying road conditions and riding styles, enhancing both comfort and safety. Many modern touring motorcycles also include electronic rider aids such as traction control, ABS, and multiple rider modes. These advancements help riders maintain stability and confidence, especially during long-distance journeys on diverse terrains.

Stability

The Road Glide Limited features a frame-mounted ‘sharknose’ fairing for better stability at high speeds. This distinctive fairing design helps reduce wind buffeting and provides a smoother ride, especially on long highway stretches. Its aerodynamic shape enhances control and rider confidence, making it a favorite among touring enthusiasts. Combined with advanced suspension and braking systems, the Road Glide Limited offers a balanced and comfortable touring experience.

Comfort

Comfort is the single most important factor for spending long hours in the saddle. Heated grips and seats can significantly improve rider and passenger comfort in varying weather conditions, making those long rides more enjoyable. Additionally, adjustable windshields help reduce wind buffeting, which can cause fatigue over time. Together, these comfort features ensure that both rider and passenger can focus on the journey ahead without unnecessary distractions.

Extra Features

A lot of tourers get additional features as an added extra. Among those include GPS, so you can easily track where you’re going. Hard luggage help keep your belongings safe. Satellite radios will also help keep you connected practically anywhere, especially in emergencies. More features mean more expensive bikes, however. So, ensure you can use everything you’re getting from the bike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should you use touring motorcycles?

A touring motorcycle is made for long-distance travel. It provides comfort and excellent storage capacity and usually has a powerful engine. You can also use it for daily commutes.

Q: Can you use touring motorcycles off-road?

Some touring bikes can be used off-road. It’s usually adventure tourers that allow this. Double-check your bike’s features to see if it can handle off-road courses.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best touring motorcycle comes down to riding style, comfort features, and whether you want sport touring performance or laid-back touring bikes.

All these bikes are built for long distance comfort with modern features, safety, and enough storage space to handle any adventure on two wheels. Whether you lean toward a classic Harley Davidson Road Glide, a tech-packed BMW tourer, or the legendary Honda Gold Wing, the right touring machine will make every ride unforgettable.