Touring

PROS +

  • Smooth ride
  • Long range
  • Comfortable rider position
  • Low maintenance
  • Storage compartments

CONS -

  • Heavy
  • Can be too powerful for novices
  • Longer braking distance
  • Expensive

Touring motorcycles are designed to give you the ability to hop on and traverse the roads of the world, or just commute in style and comfort.  Where off-road and sport bikes are designed to perform, touring bikes are first and foremost designed for rider comfort.  They are relatively heavy and have large fairings and windshields to keep the bugs out of your teeth. 

One of the best features of touring bike is locking storage place.  You can take a trip and not have to worry so much about your valuables.  They also have large fuel tanks, lots of cruising horsepower, and with an upright seating position are comfortable to ride all day. Keep in mind, touring bikes are heavier and less maneuverable, so give yourself extra room to ride safely.

Popular Uses

LONG TOURS

These bikes are designed for long days in the saddle. They are also equipped with abundant built in storage allowing users to take long tours. Everything from a cross-state to cross-country touring is what these bikes are all about.

SHORT TOURS

Many areas have great regional and extensive local rides. A good touring bike gives you all the comfort you could want, and all the space you need for extra clothes and weather gear.

COMMUTING

Another strong contender for best commuting bike. These bikes are comfortable and have built in weather proof storage for your computer or papers. The larger bikes however, will present more of a challenge for inexperienced riders.