Several touring bikes are popular in India, chosen for their comfort, reliability, and capability for long-distance travel. Here are some of the best touring bikes you might consider:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan:
- A highly regarded adventure touring motorcycle with a rugged design, comfortable riding position, and good off-road capability. It has a 411cc engine that’s suitable for long rides.
- Kawasaki Versys 650:
- A versatile touring bike known for its comfort and handling. It features a 649cc parallel-twin engine and is equipped with advanced features suited for long distances.
- BMW G 310 GS:
- A smaller adventure bike that is great for touring and off-road. It has a 313cc engine and offers good ergonomics and agility, making it suitable for both city rides and long trips.
- Benelli TRK 502:
- This bike provides a great balance of comfort, performance, and features. The 500cc parallel-twin engine delivers good power for long rides, and its adventure touring setup is quite appealing.
- Honda CB500X:
- A capable touring motorcycle with a parallel-twin engine. It offers good performance, comfort, and features a relaxed riding position that is ideal for long-distance travel.
- KTM 390 Adventure:
- A lightweight adventure bike that combines off-road capability with touring comfort. Its 373cc engine, advanced electronics, and lightweight build make it a fun option for both commuting and touring.
- Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT:
- A well-rounded adventure tourer with a comfortable seat and effective wind protection. Its V-twin engine delivers smooth power for long-distance cruising.
- Yamaha Tenere 700:
- An adventure machine designed for both on-road and off-road touring. It features a 689cc engine and offers great suspension and ergonomics for long rides.
- Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin:
- A higher-end adventure bike with a focus on off-road capabilities while still being comfortable for long-distance touring. It features advanced technologies and a capable engine.
- TVS Apache RR 310:
- While primarily a sports bike, its comfort and performance make it a good choice for shorter touring rides. It offers a balance of power and agility, making it fun for spirited rides.
When choosing a touring bike, consider factors such as comfort, fuel tank capacity, luggage options, and your personal riding style. Make sure to test ride the bikes if possible to find the one that best suits your needs.
Here’s a comparative table of some popular touring bikes in India, focusing on key specifications and features:
| Bike Model | Engine Type | Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Fuel Tank Capacity | Weight (Kerb) | Price Range (Approx.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Enfield Himalayan | Single-Cylinder | 411cc | 24.3 HP | 32 Nm | 15 liters | 199 kg | ₹2.10 – ₹2.30 lakh | Rugged design, off-road capability, comfortable riding position |
| Kawasaki Versys 650 | Parallel Twin | 649cc | 67 HP | 64 Nm | 21 liters | 216 kg | ₹6.70 – ₹7.10 lakh | Comfortable seat, adjustable windscreen, great touring capabilities |
| BMW G 310 GS | Single-Cylinder | 313cc | 34 HP | 28 Nm | 11 liters | 169.5 kg | ₹3.50 – ₹4.00 lakh | Good ergonomics, lightweight, adventure capability |
| Benelli TRK 502 | Parallel Twin | 500cc | 47 HP | 46 Nm | 20 liters | 235 kg | ₹5.00 – ₹5.50 lakh | Adventure touring-focused, large fuel tank |
| Honda CB500X | Parallel Twin | 471cc | 47 HP | 43 Nm | 17.1 liters | 196 kg | ₹5.00 – ₹6.00 lakh | Good wind protection, comfortable ride position |
| KTM 390 Adventure | Single-Cylinder | 373cc | 43 HP | 37 Nm | 14.5 liters | 177 kg | ₹3.40 – ₹3.60 lakh | Lightweight, agile, off-road capability |
| Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT | V-Twin | 645cc | 70 HP | 62 Nm | 20 liters | 216 kg | ₹8.20 – ₹8.40 lakh | Comfortable for long rides, good suspension |
| Yamaha Tenere 700 | Parallel Twin | 689cc | 72.4 HP | 68 Nm | 16 liters | 204 kg | ₹7.50 – ₹8.00 lakh | Excellent for on and off-road, advanced features |
| Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin | Parallel Twin | 1084cc | 100 HP | 105 Nm | 18.8 liters | 226 kg | ₹15.00 – ₹16.00 lakh | Advanced tech, off-road focused, comfort for long tours |
| TVS Apache RR 310 | Single-Cylinder | 312cc | 34 HP | 27.3 Nm | 11 liters | 169.5 kg | ₹2.60 – ₹2.80 lakh | Sport-oriented, suitable for shorter tours |
Notes:
- Prices are approximate and may vary by location, dealer, and time of purchase.
- Weight refers to the kerb weight, which includes all fluids and a full tank of fuel.
- Features and specifications may have updates after October 2023, so it’s advisable to check with the manufacturer or local dealers for the most current information.
- Always consider test riding the bike and researching specific requirements for touring based on your preferences and riding style.
