When Distance Decides
Long rides test more than endurance. Touring bikes and cruisers often balance power, fuel efficiency, and comfort in ways shorter-range models don’t. At the same time, not every rider wants all-day journeys. Some bikes thrive in quick city bursts. Let’s explore motorcycles that excel at covering longer miles and those perfect for shorter trips around town.
1. BMW R 1250 RT
The BMW R 1250 RT packs a muscular 1,254cc boxer twin producing 136 horsepower at 7,750 rpm. A 6.6-gallon tank offers a 296-mile range, and modern touches like a 10.25-inch TFT display and adjustable electronic windscreen enhance every ride.
2. Honda Gold Wing
Innovation defines the Honda Gold Wing. A horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine challenges convention, while a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission reshapes the driving experience. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 5.5-gallon tank merge touring range with the digital convenience riders now expect.
3. Yamaha Star Venture
Heated seats and grips provide essential comfort for both rider and passenger. Then, the Sure-Park system simplifies the tight maneuvering of this touring machine. A generous 6.6-gallon fuel tank delivers extended range, all powered by the motorcycle's muscular 1,854cc air-cooled V-twin engine.
S Bumgardner at English Wikipedia on Wikimedia
4. Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic
Classic Harley heritage blends with modern touring comfort in the Electra Glide Ultra Classic. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-Twin engine and full-length footboards honor tradition. A Boom! Box 4.3 system, 6-gallon tank, and passenger backrest add contemporary touring ease.
User Arpingstone on en.wikipedia on Wikimedia
5. Indian Roadmaster
The Thunderstroke 116 V-twin engine sets the foundation for serious touring capability, propelling riders across state lines with power. A 5.5-gallon tank keeps the journey flowing for hours, and the remote-locking storage secures provisions along the way. The 7-inch touchscreen navigation shows you the way.
6. Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT
Dawn breaks as the Versys 1000 LT's 1,043cc inline-four engine awakens. Morning highways unfold behind the adjustable windscreen; integrated side cases carry essentials for the day ahead. Miles dissolve effortlessly as the 5.5-gallon tank ensures confidence through afternoon stretches and sunset returns.
Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT Review - The Ninja 1000 Does ADV! by Jon's Motorcycle Rescue and Review
7. BMW K 1600 GTL
Who says you can't teach an old touring bike new tricks? The K 1600 GTL's reverse assist function flips conventional motorcycle dynamics on their head, joining forces with a 10.25-inch TFT navigation display to modernize the touring experience. Beneath these digital niceties purrs a mighty 1,649cc inline six engine.
8. Suzuki V-Strom 650XT
Adventure riders face notorious fuel anxiety, power deficits, terrain limitations, and traction troubles. But Suzuki has engineered solutions into every corner of the 650XT. Its marathon 5.3-gallon tank, gutsy 645cc V-twin engine, terrain-conquering spoked wheels, and three-mode traction control system tackle each challenge head-on.
9. Triumph Tiger 1200
With six specialized riding modes at your command, the 1200 adapts seamlessly from urban commuting to remote trail exploration. This versatility is backed by a potent 1,160cc triple-cylinder engine and a reliable shaft drive system. Additionally, its 5.28-gallon fuel capacity helps keep adventures rolling without unnecessary stops.
10. Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports
Break free from boundaries with the Adventure Sports' expedition-ready 6.5-gallon tank. Every mile unfolds new possibilities, backed by a potent 1,084cc parallel-twin engine and your choice of manual or DCT transmission. The large adjustable windscreen stands guard against the elements.
order_242 from Chile on Wikimedia
After exploring the machines built for long-haul comfort and range, it’s time to shift gears and look at motorcycles that shine in shorter rides—those perfect for weaving through city streets or quick weekend escapes.
1. Honda Grom
The Honda Grom stands out in every category. It offers unmatched efficiency at 134 miles per gallon, and its compact frame gives it exceptional maneuverability. A 124cc air-cooled engine with programmed fuel injection ensures reliable performance. Dual hydraulic disc brakes—220mm front and 190mm rear—add outstanding safety.
2. Yamaha MT-03
Despite its compact displacement, the MT-03 delivers sophistication well beyond its class through purposeful engineering. The responsive 321cc liquid-cooled twin works in harmony with a precision-tuned diamond frame, while aggressive MT-series styling and a comprehensive LCD display system make this lightweight bike a genuine performance machine.
3. Kawasaki Z125 Pro
Don't let its capable performance intimidate you—the Kawasaki Z125 Pro's featherlight 224-pound design makes it remarkably approachable for riders of all experience levels. Its compact frame slides effortlessly into tight parking spots, while the responsive 125cc air-cooled engine and four-speed manual transmission ensure confident, engaging control through urban adventures.
4. Suzuki SV650
Modern motorcycles often struggle to balance performance with accessibility, but the SV650 cracks this code brilliantly. The lightweight trellis frame design tackles handling challenges. At the same time, the 645cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine and Dual Spark Technology deliver efficient, responsive power that novices and veteran riders appreciate.
5. Honda Rebel 300
Threading through city traffic becomes second nature on the Honda Rebel 300, its lightweight chassis delivering the precise control urban riding demands. The compact 286cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine provides ideal city power, and the low 27.2-inch seat height ensures confident stops. Clean, minimalist lines invite personal customization touches.
6. Royal Enfield Classic 350
At first glance, the Classic 350 speaks of Royal Enfield's post-war heritage. Yet beneath the vintage-inspired design lies thoroughly modern engineering—a smooth-running 349cc air-oil-cooled single-cylinder powerplant featuring the advanced J series engine, delivering contemporary performance with minimal vibration.
7. KTM 390 Duke
The 399cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers energetic power through a precision-engineered steel trellis frame, while aggressive Super Duke-inspired styling bridges the gap to modern amenities like the advanced TFT color display, creating a perfectly balanced riding experience.
8. Vespa Primavera 150
Clean lines define the Vespa Primavera 150, which channels the spirit of its 1968 predecessor through a timeless steel monocoque frame. Beyond its elegant silhouette, this modern classic delivers substance through its capable 154.8cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine. The spacious under-seat compartment adds everyday utility.
2022 Vespa Primavera 150 Review | Daily Rider by RevZilla
9. Harley-Davidson Street 500
City riding demands nimble navigation through tight spaces and constant stops. The Street 500's compact Revolution X V-twin engine, delivering 494cc of liquid-cooled power, slips effortlessly through urban traffic. With its low 25.7-inch seat height and city-focused design, this entry-level Harley transforms challenging commutes into confident cruising.
2020 Harley-Davidson Street 500 First Ride & Review by Kwackajack
10. Triumph Street Twin 900
Advanced safety meets raw power in the Street Twin 900. A ride-by-wire throttle and switchable traction control keep every ride secure. Its 900cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine delivers confident performance, and the comfortable bench seat invites heritage-inspired motorcycling at its safest.
