7 Touring Motorcycles That Won’t Drain Your Wallet

Are you looking for a comfortable, affordable motorcycle for long-distance trips? If so, a budget touring motorcycle is a great option.

These motorcycles offer good performance, comfort, and features without breaking the bank. But it is tough to decide between hundreds of options available in the market.

But don’t worry because I have worked harder to list the best budget motorcycles; we will look at some of them in this article. 

Let’s dive into:

Related: 10 Best Touring Motorcycles for Long Tours

What are the Best Budget Touring Motorcycles?

You should understand that budget touring motorcycles are not just those that come in cheaper rates, but also those that are fuel efficient; you can afford their maintenance cost easily, and many other factors impact this term. 

Related: 7 Best Touring Motorcycles That are Perfect for Beginners

1. Yamaha MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03 is a 321cc parallel-twin bike that is designed for both beginners and experienced riders. It is known for its aggressive styling, lightweight handling, and affordable price.

The MT-03’s engine is smooth and responsive, with plenty of power for city riding and backroad carving. The brakes are also powerful and well-modulated, giving the rider confidence.

The MT-03’s chassis is lightweight and agile, making it easy to manoeuvre in traffic and around corners. The suspension is firm but comfortable, providing a good balance of handling and comfort.

The MT-03’s styling is one of its most distinctive features. The sharp, angular bodywork gives the bike a mean, aggressive look that will turn heads.

Overall, the Yamaha MT-03 is an excellent motorcycle for the price. 

Price: $6005

2. Triumph Bonneville T120

The Triumph Bonneville is a modern classic motorcycle that has been around since 1959. It is known for its classic styling, comfortable ride, and reliable engine.

The current generation of Bonneville is powered by a 900cc parallel-twin engine, which produces 64 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque.

The smooth and refined machine provides plenty of power for city and highway riding. The Bonneville has a comfortable upright riding position, wide handlebars, and a spacious seat.

The suspension is tuned for comfort and does an excellent for absorbing bumps and road imperfections. The brakes are solid and responsive, providing plenty of stopping power.

The T120 has a more modern look and comes with additional features such as ABS and traction control. The T120 Black has a blacked-out finish and a more aggressive look.

The Triumph Bonneville is an excellent choice for those looking for a stylish, comfortable, and reliable motorcycle. 

Price: $12, 695

Related: What are Best Touring Motorcycles Which Could Comes Under $10,000

3. Kawasaki KLR650

The Kawasaki KLR650 2023 model features several updates, including fuel injection, a larger fuel tank, and a revised suspension.

The KLR650 is powered by a 650cc single-cylinder engine that produces 39 horsepower and 39 lb-ft of torque. The machine is fuel-injected for improved fuel economy and emissions.

The KLR650 also has a new 6.1-gallon fuel tank. The suspension has been revised for 2023 with new springs and damping settings.

The KLR650 also has a new 295mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc brake. It has a long-travel suspension that can handle rough terrain and good ground clearance.

The KLR650 is also comfortable on the highway, thanks to its upright seating position and large fuel tank.

Price: $6, 899

4. Yamaha FZ1

The FZ1 has a comfortable riding position and can handle street and track riding.

It is powerful enough for track days but comfortable enough for everyday riding. It is also relatively affordable, making it a good value for the money.

Here are some unique features of FZ1:

• Its engine is derived from the Yamaha R1 but has been detuned for smoother power delivery.
• Its suspension is fully adjustable to customize it to your riding style.
• Brakes are some of the best in its class. They are robust and easy to modulate.
• The FZ1 is a popular choice for customization. Aftermarket parts are available to make the bike look and perform even better.

Price: $5,500

5. Aprilia Tuono V4 1100

The Tuono V4 1100 boasts a distinctive design, blending the aggressive lines of a super-sport bike with the upright ergonomics of a streetfighter.

Its partially exposed engine, bold graphics, and sharp tail section are a visual treat. Powered by a monstrous 1100cc V4 engine, the Tuono is a force to reckon with.

With a robust 175 horsepower, it offers exhilarating acceleration, ensuring a thrilling ride at any speed. It provides a relatively upright riding position.

This makes it more comfortable for longer rides while retaining an aggressive stance suitable for spirited riding.

The Tuono offers impeccable handling thanks to its lightweight aluminium frame and advanced suspension. The bike remains composed and precise when navigating tight city streets or attacking twisty mountain roads.

Aprilia didn’t skimp on tech. The Tuono V4 1100 is equipped with:

• APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control): A comprehensive suite including traction control and launch control.
• ATC (Aprilia Traction Control): Adjustable to different levels and can be changed on the fly.
• ABS: Offering safety without compromising the thrill.
• Color TFT Dashboard: Displays a plethora of information in a clear, readable format.

Price: $16,199

6. Suzuki SV650

Starting with the design, the SV650 offers a blend of modern and classic. It has clean lines, a neatly curved fuel tank, and a look that says “sleek” and “sturdy.” The bike appeals to newcomers and those riding for a while, making it versatile in the style department.

Under the hood or, instead, the tank, the SV650 boasts a V-twin engine. For those who might not know, this means the bike has a good balance of power.

It’s neither too aggressive nor too timid. Beginners will feel safe, and experienced riders will still have fun. The throttle is smooth, allowing for quick acceleration.

The brakes are reliable, offering safety even when pushing the bike more. For those new to two wheels, how a bike ‘feels’ when you ride can be super important. The SV650 shines here.

It’s light, elegant, and easy to manoeuvre. Whether navigating city streets or winding roads, the bike cooperates and gives you confidence.

Seat is cushioned well, and the riding position isn’t too aggressive. This means you can ride for longer without feeling the need to stretch every hour.

Price: $7,299

7. Brixton Cromwell 250

At first glance, the Brixton Cromwell 250 exudes a timeless appeal. It gives a nod to the vintage bikes of the past while still looking fresh and updated.

The round headlamp, clean lines, and minimalistic design all come together to create a look that is both simple and striking.

The Cromwell 250 packs enough power for the urban rider. With its 250cc engine, this motorcycle provides smooth rides in city conditions and even manages well on open roads.

While it might not be the fastest bike out there, its agility and easy handling more than makeup for it. One thing you’ll notice once you hop on the Brixton Cromwell 250 is its comfort.

The seating position is upright, making it easy on the back, even for longer rides. The seat is cushioned just right, and the handlebars are placed in a manner that ensures you won’t be straining your arms.

The Cromwell 250 isn’t packed with high-tech features, but it offers all the basics and a few extras. The dash is easy to read, and the controls are simple and intuitive.

Brixton has focused on giving riders a fuss-free experience, which many will appreciate.

Price: $3,999

Conclusion

There are many great budget touring motorcycles on the market, each with its own unique set of features and benefits. The best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Here are some basic features to consider when choosing a budget touring motorcycle:

• The engine size will affect the bike’s power and fuel efficiency. A larger engine will provide more power, but it will also be less fuel-efficient.
• The bike should be comfortable to ride for long distances. Look for a bike with a comfortable seat, a windshield, and a luggage rack.
• Consider the features that are important to you, such as a passenger seat, a luggage rack, or a cruise control.
• Set a budget before you start shopping. This will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.

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