15 best motorcycles for travel

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The travel motorcycle gives tourism enthusiasts unlimited possibilities. The technique allows you to overcome long distances or off-road, develop high speed or enjoy a leisurely ride. At the same time, you can take a fairly substantial luggage with you. The Russian market offers a wide range of touring bikes from different manufacturers. To find a motorcycle for your needs, we advise you to get acquainted with the recommendations of our experts.

Recommendations for choosing a touring motorcycle

1. Road surface. One of the main questions that a potential owner should answer is the type of road surface. If the bike is going to be driven on tarmac, many models will do. But if the route involves sections with a country road, then bikes with off-road capabilities should be preferred.
2. Weight of the motorcycle. Travel bikes are quite heavy (2000-5000 kg). Lighter models are distinguished by their maneuverability and good maneuverability. But for long-distance travel on highways, heavy models look preferable.
3. Travel duration. Motorcycles seriously differ in the size of their luggage compartments. Models with small trunks are chosen by motorcyclists who often go out of town for a picnic or summer cottage. For long journeys, you have to take a lot of things with you, especially when your companion is also nearby. If the distance is more than 300 km, then the bike must have 3 saddlebags with a capacity of 90 liters. In special cases, single or double axle trailers are used.
4. The presence of a passenger. Traveling together is not only more fun, but also quieter. There must be enough space for the passenger so that he does not get tired on the road. Heavy and roomy models provide maximum comfort for both riders. But traveling together on sports bikes is close.
5. Gas tank capacity. When choosing a motorcycle for travel, it is important to pay attention to the capacity of the fuel tank. Typically, manufacturers install tanks from 10 to 30 liters in size. On the one hand, the large tank allows you to go for longer without stopping at gas stations. But with an increase in the tank, the weight of the equipment also grows. Therefore, for country trips, a gas tank with a capacity of 10-15 liters is enough, and for long-distance flights it is better to choose a motorcycle with a 20-25 liter tank.
6. Maintainability. Often, along the way, there are problems with motor vehicles. Finding a spare part for a rare bike model in the province can be very difficult, as well as a specialized center. In this case, an electronic diagnostic system will be a useful option, which will promptly notify about malfunctions.
7. Comfort level. On a long trip, comfort for travelers becomes an important factor. This concept is quite broad and ambiguous. Someone finds it more convenient to ride a compact bike, there are lovers of low seats, for some it is important to adjust the windscreen. Heated handles, USB connectors, high-quality acoustics, LED optics become useful options. The final set of options is made by the motorcyclist, based on his requests.

We've handpicked 15 of the best motorcycles for travel. All models can be purchased in our country. When distributing places in the rating, the opinion of the expert community and the feedback of domestic bikers were taken into account.

15 best motorcycles for travel

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
15 best motorcycles for travel	1	BMW K 1600 GTL	RUB 1,774,000
	2	Harley-Davidson ROAD GLIDE ULTRA	RUB 2,410,000
	3	Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT	RUB 2,486,000
	4	INDIAN CHIEFTAIN ROADMASTER ELITE	RUB 3,283,000
	5	BMW R 1250 RT	1,446,000 rubles.
	6	Kawasaki Vulkan 1700 Voyager	RUB 990,000
	7	Victory Cross Country Tour	RUB 1,590,000
	8	Ducati Multistrada 950 S + Touring Pack	RUB 1,395,000
	9	Yamaha FJR1300A	RUB 1,322,000
	10	BMW F 850 ​​GS	RUB 894,000
	11	Yamaha XTZ 1200 SUPER TENERE	RUB 1,160,000
	12	Honda CRF 1000L AFRICA TWIN	RUB 1,091,000
	13	Kawasaki VERSYS 1000	RUB 1,025,000
	14	Honda NM4-01	RUB 870,000
	15	CF-MOTO 650 TK	RUB 449,000

BMW K 1600 GTL

Rating: 5.0

The motorcycle BMW K 1600 GTL will allow you to enjoy the long journey. This model successfully combines the advantages of a sports and touring bike. The technique has a high power (160 HP) and an impressive weight (348 kg). Experts have appreciated the removable structure of the rear rack, equipped with a backrest and side reservoirs. Therefore, the motorcycle can be used as an urban option. The model becomes the winner in our ranking.

Domestic users respect German motor vehicles, but only a few can afford the pleasure of traveling on such a bike. The owners include a large gas tank, cast aluminum wheels and versatility of use. The motorcycle attracts with its stylish appearance. The downside is the high price.

Advantages

• maneuverability;
• removable trunks;
• large tank;
• powerful engine.

disadvantages

• high price.

Harley-Davidson ROAD GLIDE ULTRA

Rating: 4.8

The American Harley-Davidson ROAD GLIDE ULTRA bike looks like a real long-range cruiser. The model has a mesmerizing appearance and unique color. The manufacturer installed a classic fairing on the equipment, which is popularly called the “bat wing”. The experts liked the speaker system, which allows you to enjoy music even at high speed. The equipment is powered by a low-powered 87 hp engine. from. Fans call its sound “soulful”, and environmentalists praise the engine for the minimum of harmful emissions. The bike gets the silver in our rating.

It is not enough to have a lot of money to drive such a motorcycle. You need to be in good physical shape, since the weight of the unit is 424 kg in running order.

Advantages

• beautiful appearance;
• unusual colors;
• high-quality acoustics;
• environmentally friendly engine.

disadvantages

• high price;
• great weight.

Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT

Rating: 4.7

A recognizable design is the Japanese travel motorcycle Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT. It is designed to conquer endless asphalt tracks. Experts immediately noted the large weight of the bike (383 kg), which makes operation less convenient compared to the “motorcycle classics”. But, despite some awkwardness, the bike surprises with its agility. All maneuvers are performed smoothly without jerking. The rider gets maximum comfort when riding at a speed of 70 to 120 km / h. With further acceleration, it begins to put pressure on the ears, from which fatigue quickly accumulates. The bike is in third place in our ranking.

Users have no complaints about the technical characteristics. But you can find fault with some of the little things. Some are worried about the lack of a cigarette lighter socket, and the USB connector is hidden in the center trunk.

Advantages

• profitability;
• recognizable design;
• Japanese quality;
• comfortable fit.

disadvantages

• heavy weight;
• no cigarette lighter socket.

INDIAN CHIEFTAIN ROADMASTER ELITE

Rating: 4.6

The classic American travel roadster is the INDIAN CHIEFTAIN ROADMASTER ELITE. The model is ideally thought out, it perfectly combines stylish design and spaciousness, excellent balancing and a comfortable fit. Experts have highlighted several advantages of the motorcycle. These are custom red and black paint and badges in 24K gold leaf. Complementing the picture is a 600-watt audio system, which is 50% louder than the outdated version, and a touch screen (7 inches). The ROADMASTER ELITE has a range of modern options to make your ride comfortable. The motorcycle stops one step away from the top three in our ranking.

Users call the first drawback a modest ground clearance, which is especially important in Russian conditions. And the second limiting factor is the high price.

Advantages

• stylish design;
• good roominess;
• powerful audio system;
• comfortable fit.

disadvantages

• small ground clearance;
• high price.

BMW R 1250 RT

Rating: 4.6

The German company BMW has updated the R 1250 RT touring motorcycle. A new motor with variable valve timing and variable injection was installed on the bike. Thanks to the common crankcase, the manufacturer managed to reduce the weight of the bike. Many changes were made by the designers to improve aerodynamic performance. However, diode optics are available as an option. The experts' attention also deserved a complex-shaped fuel tank with a capacity of 25 liters. The seat is comfortable and height adjustable. A pair of stiff saddlebags hints at the motorcycle's tourist destination. The model ranks fifth in our ranking.

Domestic users believe that the German manufacturer offers a modest package. But in general, experienced motorcyclists call the model a progressive apparatus.

Advantages

• modern motor;
• lightweight construction;
• roomy wardrobe trunks;
• aerodynamics.

disadvantages

• modest equipment.

Kawasaki Vulkan 1700 Voyager

Rating: 4.5

The Japanese travel bike Kawasaki Vulkan 1700 Voyager replaces the Vulkan 1500 and 1600. The motorcycle is equipped with a 1700 cc power unit. cm with programmed fuel injection. Experts consider the motor not the most advanced, with only one cam per cylinder. To offset this disadvantage, the Japanese installed a 6-speed transmission. A comfortable ride is provided by a suspension with two adjustable shock absorbers and a 45mm fork. Disc brakes with 4 piston calipers are responsible for the safety of movement. The bike is in the TOP-6 of our rating.

Russian bikers noted such disadvantages of the motorcycle as high fuel consumption and limited speed (186 km / h). But the successful overcoming of small obstacles can be attributed to the asset of the model.

Advantages

• comfortable suspension;
• reliable brakes;
• roomy wardrobe trunks;
• not afraid of bumps on the road.

disadvantages

• outdated motor;
• high fuel consumption.

Victory Cross Country Tour

Rating: 4.5

An American manufacturer focused on beauty with the Victory Cross Country Tour travel motorcycle. It was due to the improvement of the style that it was decided to compete with eminent brands from America, Europe and Japan. The developers took into account the wishes of long-distance motorcycle riders, trying to make the most comfortable bike. Experts note roomy trunks, a low saddle, a relaxed fit and a modern chassis. The mass of the unit reaches 347 kg, the gas tank capacity is 22 liters. The model deservedly gets into our rating.

Domestic users are satisfied with the spectacular appearance, excellent travel comfort. Of the minuses, the gluttony of the engine and the small volume of the tank are mentioned.

Advantages

• beautiful appearance;
• high level of comfort;
• comfortable fit;
• modern chassis.

disadvantages

• heavy weight;
• high fuel consumption.

Ducati Multistrada 950 S + Touring Pack

Rating: 4.4

The Ducati Multistrada 950 S + Touring Pack is an Italian travel motorcycle designed to provide the rider with a fun and comfortable experience. On a bike you can not only conquer long distances, but you can safely drive off the asphalt road. As a basis, the manufacturer chose a lightweight design, complementing it with a powerful motor and a comfortable chassis. The updated version has electronic suspension that adjusts the shock absorbers to the road conditions. The motorcycle is equipped with a 5-inch screen, cruise control, Hands Free system.

The bike is included in our rating for its convenience and comfort while riding. Users did not like the operation of the gearbox, especially when the second speed is on the display when the “neutral” is on.

Advantages

• light weight (205.7 kg);
• powerful engine (113 hp);
• electronic suspension;
• adjustable shock absorbers.

disadvantages

• malfunctions in the transmission.

Yamaha FJR1300A

Rating: 4.4

The Yamaha FJR1300A sport-touring motorcycle is designed to cover long distances quickly. Experts consider the ridge of the bike to be straight flat sections, where you can accelerate to 250 km / h. But the model can also effectively dodge along mountain serpentines or write out steep turns. At first acquaintance, motorcyclists are surprised at the lack of saddlebags in the basic configuration. But the heated handles are installed on all modifications. The inline 4-cylinder engine produces 146 hp. with., it can work smoothly in the “touring” mode or rapidly gain momentum in the “sport” format. The weight of the bike at 259 kg is not a problem for the engine.

The place in the rating is due to a number of minor flaws. These are protruding mirrors attached to the fairing and hot air from the motor going to the legs.

Advantages

• high speed;
• powerful motor;
• versatility;
• high build quality.

disadvantages

• no wardrobe trunks;
• small ground clearance.

BMW F 850 ​​GS

Rating: 4.3

When competitors started pushing the BMW F 800 GS motorcycles, the Bavarian manufacturer took a radical step. He developed a new model BMW F 850 ​​GS. Experts drew attention to a unique motor with a flash period of 270 and 450 degrees. Although the improvement has led to a rise in the cost of the motorcycle, the handling has improved. The designers also managed to reduce the weight to 229 kg by installing a 15 liter tank. With a consumption of 4.1 liters, a full refueling can cover more than 300 km. In the basic configuration, there is an ABS, which can be deactivated by a button on the steering wheel if desired, and LED optics. The model closes the top ten of the best motorcycles for travel.

On the forums, users consider electronics to be a weak point BMW of the F 850 ​​GS, and used equipment in the basic configuration is very difficult to sell.

Advantages

• new motor;
• light weight;
• economical consumption;
• controlled by ABS.

disadvantages

• unreliable electronics;
• low liquidity in the secondary market.

Yamaha XTZ 1200 SUPER TENERE

Rating: 4.2

The Yamaha XTZ 1200 SUPER TENERE touring motorcycle feels confident on asphalt roads and on gravel roads. The Japanese bike once successfully crossed the Paris-Dakar highway. It's clear that the motorcycle has completely changed towards travel since then. Together with the 112 hp engine. from. and a 23-liter tank, the buyer gets D-mode software, electronic suspension adjustment, cruise control, traction control with 3 ride modes and a saddle with adaptive height. Experts attribute good ergonomics and ease of use to the pluses.

The low position in our ranking is due to inaccurate tuning of road and off-road modes, poor positioning of the footrest and an outdated visor adjustment system.

Advantages

• good off-road qualities;
• rich equipment;
• good ergonomics;
• convenient control.

disadvantages

• outdated visor adjustment system;
• poorly located footrest.

Honda CRF 1000L AFRICA TWIN

Rating: 4.1

The four-time winner of the famous Paris-Dakar Marathon is the Honda CRF 1000L AFRICA TWIN motorcycle. The Japanese manufacturer updated the rally legend in 2016.The bike received a 95 hp engine. with., light frame, modern transmission and HSTC system. She is responsible for tuning the motorcycle to the road conditions. The fuel tank holds 19 liters of fuel, which is enough for about 400 kilometers. The experts liked the direct fit and the build quality.

The motorcycle is located outside the top ten of our rating for several reasons. Users consider the hard and narrow seat to be the main disadvantage. The inverted display is difficult to see in sunny weather. But thanks to the reliability and aesthetics of the bike, the number of fans in our country is growing.

Advantages

• light weight;
• economical consumption;
• comfortable fit;
• high-quality assembly.

disadvantages

• hard and narrow seat;
• not visible information on the screen in sunny weather.

Kawasaki VERSYS 1000

Rating: 4.0

The Kawasaki VERSYS 1000 touring motorcycle successfully combines a high level of comfort and challenging design. The experts liked the engine and windshield thrust adjustment and the comfortable fit. Such “goodies” as ABS and traction control are optionally available. The manufacturer installed a 118 hp engine on the bike. with., thanks to which you can accelerate to 226 km / h. For the sake of economy, 75% power usage is envisaged. A tourist SUV is suitable not only for single trips, but also for romantic travel.

There are a number of drawbacks that affected the final place of the bike in our rating. You can recharge the phone only when the ignition is on, which is not very convenient. The factory suspension is too soft, sagging up to 40%.

Advantages

• daring design;
• comfort;
• economical engine mode;
• comfortable fit.

disadvantages

• recharging with the ignition on;
• soft suspension.

Honda NM4-01

Rating: 4.0

The designers of the Japanese company Honda created the NM4-01 model, drawing inspiration from anime comics. The bike has a rather futuristic design that did not leave our experts indifferent. Having bought such a motorcycle, the owner will receive a unique unit with a 50 hp engine. from. The maximum speed will be 168 km / h, the torque distribution is automatic. For effective braking, the manufacturer has installed an ABS.

Fans of active driving can take advantage of the sport mode. Two people can travel on the bike, but if there is no passenger, the back seat can be easily transformed into a backrest for a motorcyclist. The model is designed to cover short distances, since the volume of the fuel tank is only 11 liters. The bike is ranked 14th.

Advantages

• fantastic view;
• compactness;
• automatic transmission;
• quality workmanship.

disadvantages

• modest power;
• small gas tank.

CF-MOTO 650 TK

Rating: 4.0

The only representative of the Middle Kingdom in our ranking is the CF-MOTO 650 TK travel motorcycle. The Chinese are attracting domestic consumers at an affordable price. The experts praised the model for its decent technical characteristics. The bike's asset should also include reliability. This was confirmed by the mileage of these motorcycles in 2014. Bikes drove 34 thousand km without breakdowns and unexpected stops. Considering the price, this is a decent result. Experts appreciated the convenience of the motorcycle, even during long journeys the rider does not feel tired.

Many Russian motorcyclists have already appreciated the capabilities of the Chinese bike. They speak positively about the accessibility and reliability of the model, comfortable ride and stylish design. The disadvantages include the lack of spare parts in the Russian retail network.

Advantages

• low price;
• reliability;
• stylish look;
• comfortable ride.

disadvantages

• there are no spare parts in Russian stores.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.