The Best Touring Motorcycles

See the world from two (or three) wheels

Courtesy of BMW, Harley-Davidson, Can-Am, Indian Mortorcycles, Honda

Traveling by motorcycle means bringing a lot less stuff, but it provides a much better view of the passing scenery and is an attainable adventure.

Courtesy of BMW

Technical Perfection

BMW R 1250 RT

$19,695

The R 1250 RT is compact for a touring bike, yet it doesn’t compromise on features. The 136-horsepower, two-cylinder boxer engine has a top speed of 124 miles per hour, while the aerodynamic fairing houses a 10 1/2-inch TFT screen providing navigation assistance and engine information. High-tech active cruise control sets the desired speed and reduces it when leaning into curves or when approaching a vehicle ahead.

Courtesy of Indian Mortorcycles

An American Classic

Indian Pursuit Limited

$30,999

The lines of the Indian Pursuit Limited make it look like it’s zooming down the highway even when it’s standing still, and it goes as well as it looks. Keyless ignition, cruise control, an impressive audio system, and a seven-inch touchscreen displaying turn-by-turn navigation maps and live weather information tucked into the aerodynamic fairing make this bike a touring rider’s delight.

Courtesy of Harley-Davidson

Milwaukee’s Best

Harley-Davidson Road Glide

$21,999

The Road Glide’s iconic frame-mounted fairing equipped with dual Daymaker headlamps is just as aerodynamic as it is beautiful, designed to enhance rider comfort and control while eating up hundreds of highway miles. Powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 107-cubic-inch engine linked to a six-speed transmission, the Road Glide delivers fuel economy of 43 miles per gallon, making it ideal for the so-called blue highways, where gas stations are a rare sight.

Courtesy of Honda

The Gold Standard

Honda Gold Wing

$25,600

The Gold Wing has developed a huge following of long-distance riders due to its smooth, low-vibration, six-cylinder engine; impressive reliability; aerodynamic design; and ample luggage storage. Notable technical features include an optional seven-speed automatic transmission, an electronic windscreen that can be adjusted for height and angle to ensure rider comfort, and Hill Start Assist that eliminates roll-back when stopping on an incline.

Courtesy of Can-Am

Ultimate Comfort

Can-Am Spyder RT

$24,699

The Spyder is stable and easy to operate, making it a good choice for those new to riding, as well as those making long treks. The seat holds two in comfort on extended rides, with plenty of room for luggage in the two side-mounted hard cases and one behind the passenger seat. Powered by a three-cylinder Rotax engine, it can be operated in eco mode for maximum fuel efficiency.