Touring motorcycles are designed for long-distance travel, offering comfort, durability, and ample storage. For those who love hitting the open road and exploring new destinations, investing in a pre-owned motorcycle can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of a touring bike without the hefty price tag of a new model. This blog will highlight some of the best pre-owned motorcycles for touring, ensuring you find the perfect bike for your next adventure.
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is a legendary touring motorcycle known for its comfort, stability, and iconic style. It’s a favorite among touring enthusiasts and has a long history of reliable performance.
Why It’s Great for Touring
- Comfort: The Electra Glide offers a plush seat, spacious footboards, and excellent ergonomics, ensuring comfort on long rides.
- Storage: With spacious saddlebags and a top box, it provides ample storage for your gear.
- Features: Modern Electra Glide models come with advanced features like cruise control, infotainment systems, and ABS, making long-distance travel more enjoyable.
Honda Gold Wing
The Honda Gold Wing is often considered the gold standard of touring motorcycles. Known for its luxurious ride and cutting-edge technology, the Gold Wing is an excellent choice for riders looking for a comfortable and feature-rich touring bike.
Why It’s Great for Touring
- Smooth Ride: The Gold Wing’s flat-six engine and advanced suspension system provide a smooth and stable ride, even on rough roads.
- Comfort and Features: It boasts a range of comfort features, including heated seats, adjustable windscreen, and a high-end audio system.
- Storage: With large saddlebags and a spacious trunk, the Gold Wing offers plenty of storage space for extended trips.
BMW R1200RT
The BMW R1200RT is a sport-touring motorcycle that combines performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It’s ideal for riders who want a versatile bike capable of handling both long-distance touring and spirited riding.
Why It’s Great for Touring
- Performance: The R1200RT’s boxer engine delivers impressive power and torque, making it capable of quick acceleration and comfortable cruising.
- Comfort: Adjustable ergonomics, heated grips, and an adjustable windscreen ensure a comfortable ride.
- Technology: Features like dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), ABS, and a comprehensive infotainment system enhance the touring experience.
Yamaha FJR1300
The Yamaha FJR1300 is a sport-touring motorcycle known for its reliability, performance, and comfort. It’s a great choice for riders who want a bike that can handle long-distance travel with ease.
Why It’s Great for Touring
- Performance: The FJR1300’s powerful inline-four engine provides smooth and responsive performance, making it great for both highway cruising and twisty roads.
- Comfort: Ergonomic seating, adjustable handlebars, and a comfortable seat make long rides more enjoyable.
- Storage: With integrated hard saddlebags, the FJR1300 offers ample storage for your gear.
Kawasaki Concours 14
The Kawasaki Concours 14 is a sport-touring motorcycle that combines high performance with touring comfort. It’s a great option for riders who want a powerful and feature-packed bike for long-distance travel.
Why It’s Great for Touring
- Powerful Engine: The Concours 14’s powerful inline-four engine delivers impressive performance and smooth power delivery.
- Comfort and Features: Adjustable ergonomics, a comfortable seat, and advanced features like traction control and ABS enhance the touring experience.
- Storage: Integrated hard saddlebags provide ample storage space for your gear.
Triumph Tiger 1200
The Triumph Tiger 1200 is an adventure-touring motorcycle that offers versatility, comfort, and rugged performance. It’s perfect for riders who want a bike that can handle both on-road and off-road touring.
Why It’s Great for Touring
- Versatility: The Tiger 1200’s powerful engine and advanced suspension make it capable of handling a variety of terrains.
- Comfort: Ergonomic seating, adjustable windscreen, and a comfortable seat ensure a pleasant ride.
- Technology: Features like ride modes, cruise control, and a comprehensive infotainment system enhance the touring experience.
Tips for Buying a Pre-Owned Touring Motorcycle
When looking for a pre-owned motorcycle for touring, consider the following tips to ensure you make a wise investment:
Check Maintenance Records
Request the maintenance records from the seller to ensure the bike has been well-maintained. Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of a touring motorcycle.
Inspect the Motorcycle
Thoroughly inspect the motorcycle for any signs of wear and tear, rust, or damage. Pay attention to critical components like the engine, suspension, and brakes. If you’re not confident in your ability to evaluate the bike, consider hiring a professional mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection.
Take a Test Ride
A test ride is essential to understand how the motorcycle performs and feels. Ensure the bike handles well, accelerates smoothly, and offers a comfortable ride.
Conclusion
Investing in a pre-owned motorcycle for touring can be a smart and cost-effective way to enjoy long-distance travel. Models like the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Honda Gold Wing, BMW R1200RT, Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki Concours 14, and Triumph Tiger 1200 offer a range of features, comfort, and performance that make them excellent choices for touring enthusiasts. By following the tips for buying a pre-owned touring motorcycle, you can find a reliable and enjoyable bike for your next adventure.