The Most Comfortable Motorcycle for Long Trips, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the motorcycle you think is the most comfortable!

Updated on May 8, 2024 06:22

Long journeys on a motorcycle can transform from an exhilarating adventure into a test of endurance if the ride isn't comfortable. Selecting a motorcycle that melds comfort with performance can make all the difference. For those who spend hours on the highway, the importance of ergonomic seating, smooth handling, and stability cannot be overstated. This is why ranking the best motorcycles for long trips based on user experience and comfort is so valuable. By voting on your top choices, you contribute to a collective wisdom that helps fellow riders make informed decisions. Each vote helps to identify which models truly merit recognition for their long-ride capabilities.

What Is the Most Comfortable Motorcycle for Long Trips?

1

43
votes
Pierre.sch · GFDL

BMW K 1600 GTL

BMW Motorrad

Known for its smooth ride, luxurious features and comfortable seating position, the K 1600 GTL is a top choice for long distance touring.
The BMW K 1600 GTL is a highly comfortable and luxurious cruiser motorcycle designed for long-distance touring. It combines advanced technology, powerful performance, and exceptional comfort to enhance the riding experience.

Engine: 1649cc, 6-cylinder, inline, liquid-cooled

Power: 160 hp

Torque: 175 Nm

Transmission: 6-speed, shaft drive

Suspension: Front: BMW Motorrad Duolever, Rear: BMW Motorrad Paralever
BMW K 1600 GTL in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular BMW motorcycle
- Position 3 of 10 in Most comfortable motorcycle for a passenger
- Position 7 of 10 in Most comfortable cruiser motorcycle
2

56
votes
Honda Gold Wing Tour

Honda

Considered by many to be the ultimate touring motorcycle, the Gold Wing Tour offers exceptional comfort and amenities, including heated seats and grips, a high-end sound system, and ample storage space.
The Honda Gold Wing Tour is a luxury touring motorcycle designed for long trips, offering the utmost comfort and convenience. It is equipped with cutting-edge features to enhance the rider's experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unparalleled journey.

Engine: 1,833cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder

Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT)

Suspension: Double wishbone front suspension, Pro Arm rear suspension

Seating: Comfortable and spacious heated seats for rider and passenger

Audio System: Premium audio system with Bluetooth connectivity
3

26
votes
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited

Harley-Davidson

With its classic styling and plush seating, the Electra Glide Ultra Limited is a popular choice for riders seeking comfort on long trips. The bike also features an infotainment system and ample storage space.
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited is a touring motorcycle specifically designed for long trips, offering superior comfort and luxury. It is part of the Electra Glide series, known for their excellent touring capabilities and iconic style.

Engine: Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin

Displacement: 1,868 cc

Fuel System: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Transmission: 6-speed Cruise Drive

Seat Height: 29.1 inches
4

26
votes
ja:User:↑ＰＯＮ · CC BY-SA 3.0

Yamaha FJR1300

Yamaha

Designed specifically for long distance touring, the FJR1300 boasts a comfortable riding position, adjustable windscreen, and heated grips. It also has a powerful engine and responsive handling.
The Yamaha FJR1300 is a sport touring motorcycle known for its comfort and performance. It is designed for long-distance rides while providing sporty handling. The bike features a sleek and aerodynamic body design with a focus on rider comfort and convenience.

Engine: 1298cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four

Power: 140 horsepower

Torque: 99 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Suspension: Adjustable front and rear suspension
Yamaha FJR1300 in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most comfortable 'crotch rocket'
- Position 4 of 10 in Most comfortable Superbike
- Position 4 of 10 in Most comfortable bike for long-distance riding
- Position 8 of 10 in Most reliable motorcycle
- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular Yamaha motorcycle
5

12
votes
Kawasaki Concours 14

Kawasaki

Combining sporty handling with touring comfort, the Concours 14 has a smooth ride and comfortable seating position. It also features an adjustable windscreen and heated grips.
The Kawasaki Concours 14 is a sport touring motorcycle that offers exceptional comfort for long trips. It is designed with a combination of sporty performance and long-distance capabilities, making it an ideal choice for riders seeking both speed and comfort.

Engine: 1,352 cc, inline-four

Power: 158 horsepower

Torque: 101 lb-ft

Transmission: Six-speed

Seat Height: 32.1 inches
6

7
votes
Rcbarnes2 · Public domain

Suzuki V-Strom 1000

Suzuki

A versatile adventure-touring bike, the V-Strom 1000 has a comfortable seating position and smooth ride. It also has a powerful engine and rugged styling.
The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 is a versatile and comfortable adventure motorcycle designed for long-distance touring and off-road adventures. It combines a powerful engine with a relaxed riding position and advanced features to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride. The V-Strom 1000 is known for its durability, reliability, and excellent performance both on and off the road.

Engine: 1,037 cc V-twin

Power: 101 hp

Torque: 76 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed

Suspension: Adjustable front and rear
Suzuki V-Strom 1000 in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most comfortable adventure motorcycle
- Position 9 of 10 in Most comfortable bike for long-distance riding
7

6
votes
Cjp24 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Indian Roadmaster

Indian Motorcycle Company

With its classic styling and modern amenities, the Roadmaster is a top choice for touring riders seeking comfort and luxury. The bike features heated seats and grips, a powerful sound system, and ample storage space.
The Indian Roadmaster is a luxurious and highly comfortable cruiser motorcycle that offers a superior riding experience for long-distance touring. It combines classic styling with advanced technology to create a top-tier touring bike.

Weight: 811 lbs

Engine: ThunderStroke 116 V-Twin

Displacement: 1890cc

Horsepower: 91 hp

Torque: 119 lb-ft
Indian Roadmaster in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most comfortable cruiser motorcycle
- Position 5 of 10 in Most comfortable motorcycle for a passenger
8

11
votes
Thesupermat · CC BY-SA 3.0

Triumph Tiger 1200

Triumph Motorcycles

Designed for adventure touring, the Tiger 1200 has a comfortable riding position, adjustable windscreen, and heated grips. It also has a powerful engine and rugged styling.
The Triumph Tiger 1200 is a powerful and highly versatile adventure motorcycle designed to provide exceptional comfort on long journeys. It combines the agility of a sportbike with the capability to tackle off-road terrains, making it a reliable choice for both on and off-road adventures. With its advanced features and ergonomic design, the Tiger 1200 offers a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.

Engine: 1215cc, inline 3-cylinder

Power: 141 hp

Torque: 90 lb-ft

Seat Height: heated, adjustable between 32.9 - 33.7 inches

Suspension: WP electronically adjustable
Triumph Tiger 1200 in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most comfortable adventure motorcycle
- Position 6 of 10 in Most comfortable bike for long-distance riding
9

7
votes
Ducati Multistrada 1260

Ducati

Combining sporty performance with touring comfort, the Multistrada 1260 has a comfortable riding position, adjustable windscreen, and heated grips. It also has a powerful engine and advanced electronics.
The Ducati Multistrada 1260 is a versatile adventure motorcycle designed for long journeys and thrilling off-road experiences. It combines the agility of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring motorcycle, making it an ideal choice for adventurous riders.

Engine: Testastretta DVT 1262 cc V-twin

Power: 158 horsepower

Torque: 95 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS)

Suspension: Fully adjustable Sachs front and rear suspension
Ducati Multistrada 1260 in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most comfortable adventure motorcycle
- Position 8 of 10 in Most comfortable bike for long-distance riding
10

4
votes
Victory Cross Country Tour

Victory Motorcycles

With its spacious seating and storage, the Cross Country Tour is a popular choice for touring riders seeking comfort and convenience. The bike also features a powerful sound system and heated seats and grips.
The Victory Cross Country Tour is a touring motorcycle designed with utmost comfort for both the rider and the passenger. It offers a smooth and luxurious ride, making it an ideal choice for long-distance travels. With its spacious seating and advanced features, this motorcycle ensures a pleasurable experience for the passenger.

Engine: 1731cc V-twin

Horsepower: 106 hp

Torque: 106 ft-lbs

Fuel Capacity: 5.8 gallons

Seat Height: 26.5 inches
Victory Cross Country Tour in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most comfortable motorcycle for a passenger

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Discussion

Ranking factors for comfortable motorcycle

Seat comfort

A well-padded, wide, and supportive seat is essential for long trips to reduce fatigue and discomfort.
Riding position

The ideal riding position should be upright and relaxed, without putting too much strain on your back, wrists, or knees. This will vary depending on the rider's height and preference.
Wind protection

A good windshield or fairing can help protect the rider from windblast, making long rides more enjoyable and less tiring.
Suspension

Motorcycles with adjustable suspension offer the ability to customize the ride for maximum comfort and better handling on long trips.
Luggage capacity

For long trips, it's important to have enough storage space for your gear, either with built-in saddlebags or aftermarket luggage solutions.
Fuel range

A longer fuel range means fewer stops for refueling, making long trips more seamless.
Cruise control

This feature can make a big difference on long trips by maintaining a consistent speed and reducing rider fatigue.
Engine performance and vibration

A smooth running engine with fewer vibrations will provide better comfort on longer rides.
Ergonomics

The relationship between handlebars, foot pegs, and the seat should be comfortable and suited to the rider's body shape and size.
Reliability

For long trips, it's essential to choose a bike with a reputation for reliability and durability, as breakdowns can be a major inconvenience.
Availability of aftermarket accessories

Some bikes have more aftermarket accessory options for enhancing comfort and convenience, such as heated grips, custom seats, or auxiliary lighting.
Weather protection

Features like heated grips, handguards, and the presence of fairings or windshields can offer added protection against the elements on long rides.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most comfortable motorcycle for long trips. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Motorbike is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2404 views
199 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Motorbike once every 24 hours. The rank of each Motorbike is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most comfortable motorcycle for long trips

When it comes to long motorcycle trips, comfort is key. Riding for hours on end can take a toll on your body, so finding a motorcycle that is comfortable can make all the difference. But what makes a motorcycle comfortable for long trips? Factors such as seat design, handlebar position, wind protection, and suspension all play a role. Additionally, the rider's height, weight, and riding position can also impact comfort. With so many variables to consider, finding the most comfortable motorcycle for long trips is a personal decision that requires careful consideration and research. At StrawPoll, we have thousands of polls and rankings on various topics, including motorcycles. So, if you're in the market for a comfortable motorcycle for long trips, be sure to check out our rankings and see what other riders recommend.