If you want to ride through the open road, the wind tousling your hair and the horizon stretching endlessly before you, nothing like the thrill of motorcycling.
For many, it’s not just the destination but the journey itself. But where do you start if you’re new to this world of two-wheeled adventure?
Choosing the right motorcycle is crucial, especially when starting. The weight, power, and comfort all play a vital role in ensuring your initial experiences are safe and enjoyable.
Dive with me into the world of touring motorcycles. I will introduce you to the best options for beginners.
Let’s dive into:
The Best Touring Motorcycle For Beginners
Touring motorcycles” refer to bikes specifically designed for long-distance travel, prioritizing comfort, storage, and functionality over other factors like speed or sportiness.
Touring bikes have saddlebags, windshields, comfortable long-hour seating, and advanced suspension for smoother rides.
For beginners, the best touring motorcycles balance comfort, ease of handling, and safety. They shouldn’t be too heavy, making them difficult to maneuver, but they should be sturdy enough to handle long trips.
Related: 10 Best Touring Motorcycles
A lower seat height can benefit new riders, allowing them to plant their feet firmly on the ground. A bike with anti-lock brakes (ABS) can provide an added layer of safety.
1. KTM 390 Adventure
KTM comes equipped with a 373.2cc, single-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a strong 43 horsepower, ensuring you have plenty of pep for both city rides and highway sprints.
The bike accelerates smoothly and doesn’t shy away from high speeds. KTM sticks to its sharp and aggressive styling.
The bike boasts a lean profile with a distinctive headlight that ensures you stand out. The 390 Adventure benefits from a long-travel WP suspension.
It quickly eats up bumps and potholes, giving riders a comfortable journey, even on rough terrains. The bike handles corners confidently, making it a joy on winding roads.
Armed with ByBre disc brakes at the front and rear, the motorcycle stops precisely.
Related: 7 BudgetTouring Motorcycles
KTM equips the 390 Adventure with a slew of electronic aids. The TFT display is vibrant and user-friendly, providing all the necessary information at a glance.
Features like ride-by-wire throttle, adjustable traction control, and smartphone connectivity through Bluetooth are bonuses that enhance the riding experience.
Price: $7399
2. Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT
Kawasaki crafts the Vulcan 900 Classic LT with both style and comfort in mind. At first glance, its glossy paint and chrome details grab your attention.
Sitting on it, you’ll notice the plush saddle and well-positioned handlebars, making for a relaxed riding posture.
The 903cc V-twin engine powers this bike smoothly. It offers decent torque, especially in the low to mid-range. This makes city cruising enjoyable and highway rides effortless.
Kawasaki pairs this engine with a 5-speed transmission that shifts cleanly and predictably. The bike rides on wide, white-walled tires, adding to its classic look and providing a stable ride.
When it comes to stopping power, the front disc and rear drum brakes do the job effectively, giving confidence to the rider.
The Vulcan 900 Classic LT has a windshield and saddlebags for those planning longer journeys.
The windscreen offers good wind protection, while the saddlebags provide ample storage space for personal items.
Price: $9,999
3. Suzuki Boulevard C50T
The bike boasts a classic, elegant design. Its deep black body and gleaming chrome details immediately grab attention. The unmistakably vintage styling provides a nod to classic cruisers of the past.
The seat offers maximum comfort. Long rides feel like a breeze because the cushioning supports and cradles the rider just right.
The handlebars fall naturally into hand placement, making it easy to grip and steer. I appreciate the easy-to-reach controls, ensuring riding stays effortless and intuitive.
When you turned on the engine, it purred to life with a rich and smooth rumble. The sound is manageable; it’s assertive enough to make a statement.
On the road, the C50T moves with grace. Its weight gives a sense of stability without feeling too heavy to navigate through traffic or park.
The gear shifts seamlessly, making transitions easy. Throttle response feels immediate and reliable. While Riding through turns, the bike remains steady, ensuring a confident and secure ride.
The windshield stands out not just as a style element but also for its functionality. It deflects wind effectively, ensuring a smoother ride.
Price: $10,359
4. BMW G310 GS
The BMW G310 GS looks excellent with its sharp design. It reminds you of the bigger BMW bikes but in a smaller package.
The seat feels comfortable when you ride it, so you can enjoy longer trips without getting too tired. The engine is strong enough for city riding and some light off-road adventures.
It’s smooth and doesn’t give you any problems when you change gears. Also, the fuel economy is good, so you don’t have to stop for gas often.
The brakes work well, and the bike feels stable even when you go around corners fast. It also comes with modern features like ABS (a system that helps you brake safely), a big plus for safety.
On the downside, you might feel cramped as a tall rider. Also, for some people, the price might seem high for a bike of this size.
Price: $5,890
5. Honda NX500
The NX500 comes with a sleek and modern design. Its tall stance and adventure-bike silhouette make it stand out. The bike has a neat finish, with precise attention to detail.
Its LED lights give it a contemporary feel, and the digital dashboard offers all the essential information in a clear, easy-to-read format.
Powered by a 500cc parallel-twin engine, the NX500 offers a smooth and consistent ride. The engine delivers enough punch for highway cruising and is equally comfortable in city traffic.
Related: 10 Touring Motorcycles under $10, 000
The seating is upright and natural, making it comfortable for long rides. The seat is cushioned well, and the handlebars are positioned for easy reach.
Furthermore, the windscreen provides decent protection against wind blasts. The CB500X handles well in city and highway conditions.
Its suspension is tuned to absorb most road irregularities, ensuring a smooth ride. The brakes are effective and provide good stopping power.
The bike feels stable around corners, and its weight distribution is balanced, making it easy to maneuver.
It comes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. This system prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, ensuring safer stops.
Price: $7299
6. Benelli TRK502X
The Benelli TRK502X motorcycle has features that make it an adventure-category motorcycle. This bike comes for city riding and riding on terrains like desert roads.
It has a tall windshield at the front, which helps to keep wind and dirt away when you’re riding. The design is modern and attractive.
The bike is comfortable as it has a comprehensive and soft seat, which is excellent for long rides. The handlebars are placed well, so you feel energized holding them.
There’s also a lot of space for your legs, so you don’t feel cramped. The TRK502X has a 500cc engine, which is powerful enough for most riders.
Whether you’re on the highway or a dirt road, this bike moves smoothly. The engine sound is also lovely and not too loud.
One of the best things about the TRK502X is how it performs off-road. The tires and suspension are built for rough terrains. So, if you like going on adventures and exploring new places, this bike won’t disappoint you.
Benelli has put in good brakes, a critical security point, especially when riding fast or slippery roads. The lights are also bright so that you can see well in the dark.
Price: $7,099
7. Triumph Tiger 660
At first glance, its sleek design catches your eye. The bike boasts a strong profile with clean lines hinting at its on-road prowess and off-road potential.
Slide into the saddle, and the comfort surprises you with its straightforward design, which seats for long journeys. The handlebars reach out, offering an upright and relaxed riding posture.
When you turn on the ignition, the bike’s digital display lights up clearly. It provides all the essential information without overwhelming the rider.
Twist the throttle, and the 660cc engine responds eagerly. It delivers power smoothly, making city rides pleasurable and highway stretches thrilling. The engine’s sound, a throaty growl, adds to the riding pleasure.
The suspension deserves a special mention. It absorbs most of the road’s imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride. Whether you’re tackling city potholes or off-road trails, the Triumph Tiger 660 holds its ground.
Price: $9,495
8. BMW F 750 GS
The BMW F 750 GS is not just another bike; it’s your ticket to uncharted territories and thrilling adventures.
Well, the F 750 GS delivers performance that belies its entry-level status.
With punchy acceleration and smooth power delivery, this bike offers an exhilarating riding experience that’s sure to put a grin on your face.
But that’s not all! It comes with a cutting-edge TFT display and a free navigation app, making your journey as effortless as it is exciting.
And if you’re worried about handling, let us put those fears to rest. The F 750 GS is agile on the tarmac and capable off-road, making it a versatile choice for those transitioning from street bikes to their first adventure motorcycle.
In terms of aesthetics, the F 750 GS embodies the iconic GS adventure bike design, borrowing bodywork elements from its bigger sibling, the F 850 GS.
It features two standard riding modes – Road and Rain – but allows for personalization with various packages.
Fancy additional riding modes, LED lighting, a full-color TFT instrument panel with smartphone connectivity, a quick-shifter, or cruise control.
Now, let’s talk about the heart of the beast – a robust 77 horsepower, 853cc parallel-twin engine.
This powerhouse delivers a peak torque of 61 ft-lbs at 6000 rpm, propelling you forward with gusto.
The bike’s construction boasts a tubular steel space frame with a load-bearing engine, offering a comfortable seat height and ample fuel capacity for long-haul rides.
As for the price, the basic-spec F750GS starts at around £8600. However, if you’re willing to shell out a bit more, you can opt for the F750GS TE model.
This version offers additional features such as heated handlebar grips, a quick-shifter, and an LED headlight.
With added option packs, the price can reach up to around £12,000. Despite this, it remains a more budget-friendly alternative to BMW’s flagship models.
9. Honda Rebel 1100
If you’re a novice motorcycle enthusiast looking to delve into the touring segment, the Honda Rebel 1100 is a name that demands attention.
This motorcycle is an embodiment of modern design elements paired with traditional cruiser aesthetics, offering a unique blend of the old and the new.
Powering the Rebel 1100 is a robust parallel-twin engine that churns out a commendable 87 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 72 ft-lbs of torque at 4,750 rpm.
This power profile strikes a perfect balance for a cruiser, delivering abundant torque at lower RPMs, which translates into smooth handling and easy riding.
Related: Best Touring Motorcycles for Short Riders
With a seat height of just 27.5 inches, the bike offers a comfortable riding position for most individuals.
The placement of the controls has been thoughtfully done to encourage a comfortable posture – whether you’re cruising leisurely or taking on winding roads spiritedly.
The bike responds swiftly, particularly in Sport mode, and is adept at maintaining higher speeds on freeways.
Features like electronic cruise control further enhance comfort during long rides, underscoring the Rebel 1100’s credentials as a touring bike.
As for pricing, the 2021 Honda Rebel 1100 with a manual clutch was tagged at approximately $9,299.
10. Bonneville T120
The Triumph Bonneville T120 is a captivating blend of vintage allure and contemporary technology, making it a compelling choice for beginners venturing into the touring motorcycle segment.
The riding position on the Bonneville T120 is relaxed, complemented by a comfortable seat and standard heated grips.
The 2023 model of the Bonneville T120 is a testament to Triumph’s commitment to providing a pleasurable riding experience.
At its heart is a 1200cc high-torque, parallel-twin engine that propels you forward with 79 horsepower at 6550 RPM and a peak torque of 77.4 lb-ft at a low 3500 RPM.
This power distribution, focusing on low-end torque, makes it more akin to a cruiser than a sportbike, providing smooth power delivery that beginners will appreciate.
The bike’s chassis plays an instrumental role in offering predictable and stable handling, with a 41mm fork and twin shocks ensuring a balanced ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on long-haul rides.
Visually, the Bonneville T120 exudes classic charm, featuring a sculpted fuel tank adorned with knee pads, a timeless bench seat, chrome finishes, and characteristic peashooter exhausts.
The bike comes equipped with modern amenities like LED daytime running lights, a USB charging port, and an immobilizer, with Triumph offering over 160 additional accessories to personalize your ride further.
Priced from $12,395 in the USA, the 2023 Triumph Bonneville T120 may not be the most affordable option in its category.
11. Yamaha FJ09
Fuel your passion for touring with the Yamaha FJ-09, a sport-touring motorcycle that offers an exhilarating blend of performance, comfort, and affordability.
Launched in 2015, it has quickly made its mark as a top choice for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of sport-touring.
At its heart lies an 847cc inline-triple engine – a configuration renowned for its thrilling performance.
This, coupled with a balanced distribution of power and control, makes the FJ-09 a perfect stepping-stone for novice riders yearning for a more adventurous riding experience.
With a slightly longer swingarm than the FZ version and a one-degree steeper rake, it boasts superior agility, especially in turns.
Weighing in at around 462 pounds when wet, it’s relatively lightweight for its class, further enhancing its maneuverability.
The suspension is tuned specifically for touring, offering increased damping to accommodate additional weight and ensure a smoother ride.
The FJ-09 features an adjustable seat height and a two-piece construction saddle designed for extended journeys.
The upright riding position, broad handlebars, and adjustable windshield augment the overall comfort, making it ideal for long-distance touring.
12. CFMoto 800 MT
Venture into the world of adventure touring with the CFMoto 800MT, a bike that expertly marries power, versatility, and affordability.
Particularly suited for beginners, the Touring model stands out in the mid-range segment, delivering a ride experience that’s both dynamic and comfortable.
At its heart is a KTM-derived 799cc parallel-twin engine that balances power and control seamlessly.
With around 95 horsepower and 77 Nm of torque, it offers a powerful pull from 3200 rpm but requires careful gear shifting to maintain optimal performance, as it tends to lose steam around 5000 rpm.
The 800MT excels in ride quality, offering a plush experience adaptable to city streets or country roads.
Related: The Dangerous Cities for Motorcycling
Its adjustable suspension allows riders to tailor the bike’s handling to their weight and riding style, promising a ride that’s as individual as you are.
Weighing around 240 kg fully fueled, it’s heavier than some competitors, but once in motion, it impresses with its balance and swift cornering.
Adding to its versatility, the 800MT comes equipped with two riding modes – Sport and Rain – and features cruise control, making long rides smoother and more enjoyable.
Priced at approximately £11,099 in the UK and $14,490 in Australia, the CFMoto 800MT presents itself as an attractive option for those keen on a capable, affordable adventure touring motorcycle.
13. Ducati Multistrada V4
Meet the Ducati Multistrada V4 – a high-end touring motorcycle that’s all about power, sophistication, and thrill.
Although it may not be the first choice for beginners due to its robust performance and premium price point, it’s certainly a bike that will turn heads and ignite your passion for riding.
Under the hood of the 2021 Multistrada V4 lies a V4 Granturismo engine with a displacement of 1158cc, delivering a whopping 170 horsepower and 92.2 lb-ft of torque.
It’s a technological marvel as well, being the first motorcycle to feature adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring – groundbreaking features that elevate safety and convenience, especially on long journeys.
Add to this a suite of electronic rider aids and adjustability options, including an electronic suspension with Ducati’s Skyhook system, and you’ve got a bike that’s as smart as it is powerful.
The Multistrada V4 comes with a hefty price tag – the 2021 Multistrada V4 S model is priced at around $26,095. But remember, you’re paying for premium features like a crash cage around the engine, adaptive cruise control, and semi-active suspension.
14. Benelli Trk 502
Let me introduce you to the Benelli TRK 502, particularly the 2021 model. This bike combines value, performance, and style in a package that’s hard to resist.
At the heart of the TRK 502 is a 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers a smooth and pleasurable ride with minimal vibration, even at high RPMs.
While it’s not the fastest engine around, it provides ample torque at 6000 rpm and peak power at 8500 rpm – a balanced blend perfect for both highway cruising and light off-road escapades.
It offers a comfortable ride on pavement and can handle rocky dirt roads as long as you avoid larger obstacles.
The bike features an inverted front fork and a rear mono-shock, ensuring a stable and secure feel in corners.
However, keep in mind that the bike can feel heavy, especially considering its 500cc engine size.
One look at the TRK 502, and you’ll see why it’s often compared to pricier adventure bikes. Its design exudes quality and style, defying expectations for a bike with a Chinese-manufactured engine.
The base price for the 2021 model sits around $6,399, with the TRK502X variant being slightly pricier due to additional features like spoked wheels and a higher seat.
15. Royal Enfield INT 650
Let’s talk about the Royal Enfield INT 650. This bike, priced between $5,999 and $6,699, is a perfect choice for beginners, blending simplicity, style, and performance in a package that’s hard to resist.
At the heart of the INT 650 lies an air-cooled, parallel-twin, SOHC four-valve engine that offers a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Don’t be fooled by its modest 47 horsepower – this bike packs a punch. It’s particularly impressive on backroads, delivering a spirited and satisfying ride experience powered by smooth fueling, an efficient EFI system, and comfortable handling at highway speeds.
Weighing around 466 pounds, the INT 650 isn’t exactly lightweight, but it handles its weight admirably, offering agility and balance across a range of speeds.
Design-wise, the INT 650 pays homage to its classic heritage with a retro aesthetic that appeals to many riders. While its fit and finish may not rival more established brands, they’re respectable given its affordable price point.
So, whether you’re cruising around town or exploring sunny backroads, the Royal Enfield INT 650 offers a blend of affordability, reliability, and classic charm that makes it a compelling choice for beginner touring enthusiasts.
Ahtsham Younas is a passionate blogger and content writer. He loves to ride motorcycles and learn the mechanical process behind the motorcycles.
He has been writing articles in the motorcycle industry since 2019 and has learned many things about motorbike niches.
