BEST BIKES FOR ROAD TRIPS

India’s varied landscapes—ranging from the curved Himalayan roads to Goa’s coastal highways—make it a motorcycle rider’s heaven. However, to select the correct bike for long-distance touring, comfort, performance, durability, and luggage space are crucial factors. After extensive research, here’s a handpicked list of the best touring bikes for road trips.

MAIN FACTORS TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING A TOURING BIKE

1. Engine Performance – A 250cc+ engine is suitable for highways and hills.

2. Comfort & Ergonomics – Upright seating, good suspension, and wind protection matter.

3. Fuel Efficiency – Cruising range of 300-400 km per tank is preferable.

4. Luggage & Pannier Support – Must accommodate saddlebags or top boxes.

5. Reliability & Service Network – Brands with widespread service centers win.

THE TOP PICKS

1. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 (Best Adventure Tourer)

✅ Pros:

• 452cc liquid-cooled engine with strong low-end torque

• Long-travel suspension for bad roads

• All-LED lighting & 6-speed gearbox

• Dedicated touring ergonomics

❌ Cons:

• Slightly heavy (~196 kg)

• New engine, long-term reliability yet to be proven

💡 Best For: Off-road touring, Himalayan expeditions.

2. KTM 390 Adventure (Best Performance Tourer)

✅ Pros:

• 398.63cc engine – Quick acceleration & highway cruising

• Cornering ABS & traction control for safety

• Adjustable suspension & lightweight (172 kg)

❌ Cons:

• Stiff seat for very long rides

• Premium maintenance costs

💡 Best For: Thrill-seekers who want speed + touring.

3. Bajaj Dominar 400 (Best Budget Tourer)

✅ Pros:

• 373.3cc – Smooth highway cruiser

• Affordable (₹2.32 lakh)

• Good fuel efficiency (28-30 kmpl)

❌ Cons:

• Heavier than rivals

• Basic wind protection

💡 Best For: Budget-conscious riders wanting power & comfort.

4. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (Best Retro Tourer)

✅ Pros:

• 648cc twin-cylinder – Smooth & powerful

• Classic styling with modern reliability

• Comfortable ergonomics

❌ Cons:

• No factory-fitted windscreen

• Heavy (202 kg)

💡 Best For: Classic bike lovers doing long highway rides.

5. Honda CB500X (Best Premium Tourer)

✅ Pros:

• 471cc parallel-twin – Refined & fuel-efficient

• Comfortable upright stance

• Reliable Honda engineering

❌ Cons:

• Expensive (₹5.70 lakh)

• Limited service network

💡 Best For: Riders who want a premium, fuss-free tourer.

6. Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX (Best Lightweight Tourer)

✅ Pros:

• 249cc – Balanced power & efficiency

• Lightweight (167 kg) & easy to handle

• Good ground clearance (205mm)

❌ Cons:

• Not ideal for very high-speed touring

• Basic instrument cluster

💡 Best For: Entry-level riders & city-to-hills touring.

7. BMW G 310 GS (Best Luxury Entry-Level ADV)

✅ Pros:

• 313cc – Punchy & smooth

• Premium build quality

• Off-road capable

❌ Cons:

• Expensive maintenance

• Small fuel tank (11L)

💡 Best For: Brand-conscious riders wanting a premium tourer.

FINAL VERDICT: WHICH BIKE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

• Adventure & Off-Road: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450

• High-Speed Touring: KTM 390 Adventure

• Budget-Friendly Power: Bajaj Dominar 400

• Classic Cruising: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

• Lightweight & Efficient: Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX

PRO TIPS FOR LONG-DISTANCE TOURING

• Always check tyre condition & brakes before a trip.
• Invest in riding gear (helmet, jacket, gloves).
• Use GPS navigation (Google Maps offline mode).
• Carry basic tools & a puncture repair kit.

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re planning a Leh-Ladakh expedition or a coastal ride from Mumbai to Goa, the right bike makes all the difference. Pick based on your budget, riding style, and terrain preference.