Discover the essential pros and cons of owning a touring motorcycle before making your investment. From comfort on long rides to maintenance costs, find out if touring is right for you.
Picture yourself cruising down Route 66, the wind in your face and nothing but open road ahead. For many riders, a touring motorcycle represents the ultimate freedom machine. But is it the right choice for you? According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, touring bike sales have increased by 15% in the past five years, showing their growing popularity among American riders. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the significant advantages and potential drawbacks of owning a touring motorcycle, helping you make an informed decision before investing in your next two-wheeled companion.
#The pros and cons of owning a touring motorcycle
The Advantages of Touring Motorcycles
Touring motorcycles offer riders an experience that's hard to match with any other type of bike. If you've ever dreamed of crossing the country on two wheels, these machines were specifically designed with your adventure in mind.
Unmatched Comfort for Long-Distance Riding
Touring motorcycles excel in providing exceptional comfort for those marathon rides. Unlike sport bikes that put you in a hunched-over position, touring bikes feature ergonomic seating positions that keep your back, shoulders, and wrists comfortable even after 8+ hours on the road.
The advanced suspension systems on modern touring bikes like the Honda Gold Wing or Harley-Davidson Road Glide absorb road imperfections, sparing your body from the constant jarring that can turn a dream ride into a painful ordeal. Many riders report being able to double their daily mileage after switching to a touring model.
Most premium touring models also include:
- Adjustable windscreens that redirect air flow over the rider, reducing fatigue
- Heated grips and seats for those chilly morning starts through the Rockies
- Larger footboards instead of pegs, allowing you to shift position during long rides
- Adjustable suspension settings to accommodate different rider weights and preferences
A friend who recently rode from Chicago to Los Angeles told me, "The difference between my old sport bike and my touring motorcycle was like trading a wooden bench for a luxury recliner."
Have you ever finished a long ride feeling physically exhausted? What comfort features would make the biggest difference for your riding style?
Superior Storage and Cargo Capacity
One of the biggest advantages of touring motorcycles is their impressive storage capacity. With integrated saddlebags and top cases providing 30+ gallons of storage, you can pack for extended journeys without compromise.
This storage capability transforms how you approach motorcycle travel:
- Pack a full two weeks of clothing and supplies
- Carry camping gear for overnight adventures
- Bring along specialty riding gear for changing weather conditions
- No need to ship items to destinations ahead of time
Most touring models feature weatherproof, lockable storage compartments that keep your belongings secure and dry. The BMW K1600, for example, offers integrated storage that's cleverly designed to maintain the bike's aesthetic lines while maximizing capacity.
For riders who need even more space, the aftermarket accessory options are nearly endless. From expandable bag liners to additional storage boxes, you can customize your setup to meet your specific needs.
What's the longest trip you've taken on a motorcycle, and did you have enough storage space? Would having more cargo capacity change how you plan your motorcycle adventures?
Advanced Technology and Entertainment Features
Modern touring motorcycles have evolved into rolling technology showcases. The sophisticated infotainment systems on today's touring bikes rival what you'd find in luxury automobiles.
These tech features enhance both safety and enjoyment:
- Bluetooth connectivity allowing hands-free calls and music streaming
- GPS navigation systems with motorcycle-specific routing
- Weather monitoring to help you avoid dangerous conditions
- Cruise control and ride modes for reducing fatigue on highways
The Yamaha Star Venture exemplifies this tech-forward approach with its 7-inch color touchscreen that remains visible even in bright sunlight. Many touring riders appreciate the ability to stay connected while enjoying the freedom of the open road.
Audio systems have also seen remarkable improvements, with many models featuring speakers engineered specifically for the motorcycle environment. Some riders report that their motorcycle's sound system delivers better audio quality than their home stereo!
Would having these technology features enhance your riding experience, or do you prefer a more minimalist approach to motorcycling? What tech feature would you find most valuable on long rides?
The Disadvantages of Touring Motorcycles
While touring motorcycles offer incredible benefits, they also come with some significant drawbacks that every potential buyer should carefully consider before making their purchase.
Weight and Handling Considerations
The substantial weight of touring motorcycles presents one of their biggest challenges. Typically weighing between 700-900 pounds, these bikes are significantly heavier than other motorcycle categories. This weight impacts your riding experience in several important ways.
Maneuvering a touring bike at low speeds or in parking lots can be intimidating, especially for newer riders. Many owners report dropping their bikes at least once while learning to handle them at walking pace. The Indian Roadmaster, weighing in at over 900 pounds fully fueled, requires significant upper body strength and technique to manage in tight spaces.
This weight also affects:
- Emergency stopping distances that are longer than lighter motorcycles
- Reduced agility in quick-turning situations
- Limited off-road capabilities, restricting you mostly to paved surfaces
- Increased physical demands when pushing or moving the motorcycle without power
One touring owner from Texas shared, "I love my Road Glide on the highway, but navigating through crowded gas stations or making U-turns on narrow roads can be genuinely stressful."
The weight becomes particularly challenging for riders with smaller frames or less upper body strength. Many dealerships now offer specialized courses focused specifically on handling heavyweight motorcycles.
Have you ever ridden a heavyweight touring motorcycle? What techniques have you found helpful for managing large bikes in tight spaces?
Higher Purchase and Maintenance Costs
Touring motorcycles represent a significant financial investment beyond just the initial purchase price. The premium pricing starts around $18,000 for base models and can easily exceed $30,000 for fully-loaded flagship models with all the bells and whistles.
The financial commitment extends well beyond the showroom:
- Specialized maintenance requirements often necessitate dealer service
- More expensive tire replacements due to larger, specialized touring tires
- Higher insurance premiums reflecting the bikes' greater value
- Increased fuel costs due to lower MPG compared to lighter motorcycles
Routine maintenance on touring bikes typically costs 30-40% more than on standard motorcycles. The complex electronics systems and integrated components often require specialized diagnostic equipment that many independent shops don't possess.
Even seemingly simple tasks like oil changes can be more complicated and expensive. A basic service on a BMW K1600 touring model can easily cost twice what you'd pay for a standard motorcycle.
Are these higher costs worth it for the added features and capabilities? How do you balance the desire for touring comfort against budget constraints?
Storage and Practical Limitations
Despite their advantages on the open road, touring motorcycles present several practical challenges in everyday scenarios. Their large physical footprint requires increased garage space requirements that might necessitate reorganizing your storage area or even limit your housing options.
Urban riders face particular challenges:
- Difficult parking in crowded city environments
- Challenges with filtering through traffic in congested areas
- Reduced fuel efficiency averaging 35-45 MPG compared to 50-70 MPG for lighter bikes
- Weather vulnerability despite better protection than other motorcycles
A touring motorcycle owner from Seattle noted, "I love my Harley touring bike for weekend trips, but it stays in the garage during weekday commutes—it's just too cumbersome for daily city use."
Storage during the off-season presents another consideration. Many touring motorcycle owners invest in specialized lifts, covers, or even additional storage solutions to protect their investment when not in use.
The size and complexity of these machines also make them more challenging to work on yourself, reducing the DIY maintenance that many motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy.
Do you have adequate storage space for a full-sized touring motorcycle? Would the practical limitations of these larger bikes affect your day-to-day riding enjoyment?
Is a Touring Motorcycle Right for You?
With the pros and cons laid out, it's time to consider whether a touring motorcycle aligns with your personal riding goals and lifestyle.
Rider Profile and Use Case Analysis
Finding the right motorcycle means honestly assessing your primary riding goals and how a touring bike might enhance or detract from those experiences. Ask yourself what percentage of your riding involves genuinely long distances versus short recreational rides or commuting.
Consider these personal factors:
- Physical capabilities: Can you confidently handle a 800+ pound motorcycle?
- Riding experience: Most manufacturers recommend several years of riding before transitioning to a full touring model
- Budget realities: Can you afford not just the purchase but the ongoing costs?
- Storage situation: Do you have appropriate garage space?
American touring enthusiasts often report that the touring bike purchase makes the most sense when they're taking at least 3-4 multi-day trips annually. Otherwise, the investment may not justify the limited use case.
Your riding environment matters tremendously too. Touring motorcycles excel on the open highways of the American Midwest and West but can be frustrating in densely populated urban environments like New York City or San Francisco.
The American Motorcyclist Association suggests that touring bikes are most appropriate for riders who prioritize comfort and cargo capacity over sportiness and agility. Their surveys indicate most touring bike owners are experienced riders over 45 who value comfort for extended rides.
What's your typical riding pattern? How many long-distance trips do you realistically see yourself taking each year?
Alternatives and Compromise Options
If a full-dress touring motorcycle seems excessive for your needs but you still crave some long-distance capability, several excellent compromise options exist in today's market.
Sport-touring models like the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT or Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX offer a compelling middle ground. These bikes provide:
- Much lighter weight (typically 500-600 pounds)
- Better handling in varied riding conditions
- Improved fuel economy (45-50 MPG average)
- Lower purchase price (starting around $12,000)
- Still enough comfort and storage for weekend trips
Adventure touring motorcycles represent another popular alternative. Bikes like the BMW R1250GS or Honda Africa Twin deliver impressive long-distance comfort while maintaining off-road capability that traditional touring bikes lack.
For value-conscious buyers, the used market offers exceptional opportunities. Many touring motorcycles are meticulously maintained by their original owners and become available at significant discounts. A three-year-old touring model often sells for 30-40% less than its original price while retaining most of its useful life.
Some riders have found success with a two-motorcycle solution—keeping a lighter, more agile bike for daily use and weekend fun, while maintaining a dedicated touring machine specifically for those epic road trips.
Have you considered these alternative options? Which compromise might best balance your various riding priorities?
Conclusion
Owning a touring motorcycle represents a significant investment in both money and riding commitment. For those who prioritize comfort, storage capacity, and long-distance capability, the advantages often outweigh the drawbacks. However, the higher costs, increased weight, and practical limitations make touring bikes less ideal for certain riders and situations. Consider your riding style, physical capabilities, and intended use before making your decision. What type of riding do you most enjoy, and how might a touring motorcycle enhance or limit those experiences? We'd love to hear about your touring motorcycle experiences in the comments below!
Search more: RiderWin