10 Biggest Touring Motorcycles For Cross Country Rides

For those who prefer long-distance riding, particularly on smooth asphalt, a touring motorbike is a great partner for transporting a substantial amount of baggage and occasionally a pillion. Today, touring bikes come in many shapes and sizes, varying in price from under $10,000 to over $30,000.

Thanks to the ever-growing number of touring bikes available on the market, riders are more likely to acquire excellent performance, practical amenities, and, most importantly, comfort without exceeding their budget.

Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide ST

Weight: 838 Pounds

Regarding cross-country travel, the Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide ST is the best option for riders looking for a powerful cruiser underneath them. It is an improved version of the CVO Road Glide with more power, a modern style, ergonomic comfort, and cutting-edge technology. It has a brand-new Milwaukee-Eight 121 High Output engine, producing a powerful 145 pound-feet of torque and 127 horsepower.

It’s the most expensive touring motorbike on the list and the most powerful factory-produced bagger Harley has ever sold, coming in at $42,999. Because of this, this 838-pound machine is a great option for anyone who desires both performance and elegance.

Indian Challenger Elite

Weight: 840 Pounds

Ultimately, it provides a substantial $4,500 in savings! The Challenger is far more capable of withstanding long-term use, even with its two-pound weight gain and marginally reduced power output. With a powerful 1,770cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine producing 122 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque, it promises an exhilarating ride with every accelerator turn.

The flagship bagger’s limited manufacturing run adds a further sense of exclusivity. Not to brag, but it does almost everything well, from excellent performance and outstanding comfort to cutting-edge design and extensive touring facilities.

BMW R 18 Transcontinental

Weight: 942 Pounds

The R18 Transcontinental weighs ten pounds more than the Road Glide Limited and is the heaviest two-wheeled motorcycle. It is a fully loaded grand touring version of the basic R 18, with a massive windscreen, hard saddlebags, a top case with a passenger backrest, and a sizable front fairing. There are five trim levels for the BMW R 18 series, with the Transcontinental serving as the flagship model and pricing at $23,995.

All versions are powered by a 1,802cc Boxer-twin engine producing 91 horsepower and 116 pound-feet of torque. An exposed driveshaft transmits the power to the back wheel when it starts at a low 2,000 RPM, which is quite unusual in a market where belt-driven gearboxes are the norm.

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS

Weight: 895.2 Pounds

The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager is the heavyweight champion cruiser of the Vulcan series, weighing in at 895.2 pounds. It combines a blacked-out engine and eye-catching chrome highlights with the traditional American cruiser style to create a powerful and eye-catching road presence.

A powerful 1,700cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine with 82 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque powers this enormous machine.

BMW K 1600 GT

The K-model pulls up curves like broken-up bits of Ritter Sport thanks to its shaft drive, electronic suspension adjustment that instantly adjusts for load and riding style, and distinctive Duolever front suspension.

Within milliseconds, the craft’s Inertial Measuring Unit (IMU), a large computer that processes braking, acceleration, and spring compression data, automatically modifies the shocks. The Rain, Road, Cruise, and Dynamic ride modes give you more control over handling and performance. 

Honda Gold Wing

The Gold Wing has remained a stalwart of the Honda range as the motorcycle has grown and been modernized over the years  Just five years ago, the Goldwing was remodeled. Although European specs state that Honda’s famous four-valve 1833cc liquid-cooled flat-six now produces 125 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, the company does not disclose output in the United States. A seven-speed automatic gearbox is one of the features Honda just added to the Gold Wing, which should help riders stay upright and ride well into their later years.

The handlebar grip has a convenient toggle button for manually operating the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). Alternatively, you may turn it on and let it handle the clutch work for you. There is also a conventional manual gearbox available. 

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

The large Katoom can accommodate a wide range of tires, from street-biased to complete knobbies, thanks to its off-road-focused 21 x 18-inch wheel combination. With its neutral seating position, a 6.1-gallon gas tank, an adjustable windscreen, a cornering LED headlight, and a large TFT display that allows you to view a ton of trip information, connect to your phone, and use the KTM My Ride feature.

With cruise control, the adventure can hang with the best of them when it comes to racking up miles, both on and off-road. Unless you can’t tolerate a 35-inch seat height, you would be a fool not to consider this bike for your next cross-country ride.

Indian Pursuit Elite

Weight: 917 Pounds

The Indian Pursuit Elite has very minimal drawbacks. From the factory, Elite models come fully equipped with custom-inspired designs, limited edition paint schemes, unique engine finishes, and distinguishing emblems. A 7-inch touchscreen with Ride Command, adaptive LED lighting, and the powerful Powerband music system are standard features for increased comfort.

With a weight of 917 pounds, the big cruiser is propelled by a 1768cc bronze chrome Thunderstroke 116 V-twin engine that produces 128 pound-feet of torque and 122 horsepower. Overall, it offers excellent performance for smooth cross-country driving and redefines luxury travel.

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited

 

Weight: 932 Pounds

Harley has you covered with the Road Glide Limited if you prefer contemporary style over the vintage appeal of the Ultra Limited. In addition to the Shark Nose fairing, it offers more comfort and storage. Triple split-stream vents in the frame-mounted fairing reduce buffeting at high speeds, and the roomy but stylish Tour-Pak baggage offers ample storage if you wish to prolong your journey.

Furthermore, the Milwaukee-Eight 114 Twin-cooled engine that powers the Ultra Limited also powers the Road Glide. All things considered, it provides a cutting-edge UI experience with a modern appearance and feel, along with outstanding features made with longevity in mind.

Triumph Tiger 850 Sport

The only Triumph motorbike included in this list is the 850 Sport. Out of the whole Tiger lineup, this should be your choice if you’re looking for a tourer from Triumph. Triumph’s triple engines are known for their unquestionable long-term performance. The 888cc engine on this bike generates 84 horsepower and 60 pound-feet of torque. 

Along with all the other standard features, you can access two riding modes and a slip-and-assist clutch that provides unending comfort while driving. For a good reason, the 850 Sport is one of the best-selling triples in the market right now. It is a great cross-country bike because it is lightweight, agile, and rides like no other. 

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