When planning a long-distance motorcycle trip, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right bike. Adventure motorcycles, also known as ADV bikes, are built to handle a wide variety of terrain. Whether you’re cruising on highways, tackling rough backroads, or exploring off-the-beaten-path routes, your motorcycle needs to offer comfort, durability, and the capability to perform well over long stretches of miles. Choosing the right one can make or break your trip.
An adventure motorcycle is more than just a mode of transport. It’s your companion on a journey that could span days, weeks, or even months. Understanding what makes a great long-distance touring bike requires considering several key factors, including comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, and overall performance. Here’s a breakdown of how to select the best adventure motorcycle for your next long-distance touring adventure.
Comfort: The Key to Long Hours on the Road
Long-distance touring means long hours in the saddle. Comfort is essential because you’ll be riding for extended periods, often for several days in a row. The bike must offer ergonomic features that reduce strain on your body.
When choosing your adventure motorcycle, the seat is one of the first things to consider. Look for a bike with a comfortable, well-padded seat that will support your body during long rides. Some adventure bikes offer adjustable seat heights, which can be helpful for riders of different sizes. An adjustable seat will also help you find the most comfortable position for your legs and back.
Handlebars and footpeg positioning are also essential for comfort. The handlebars should allow for a natural riding posture, with your arms at a comfortable angle. The footpegs should be positioned so that you can maintain a relaxed leg position. Some adventure motorcycles feature adjustable footpegs, enabling you to tailor the position to your preference.
Suspension is another critical aspect of comfort. A quality suspension system absorbs shocks from the road and reduces the impact on your body, especially when riding on uneven surfaces or rough terrain. Many adventure bikes come with adjustable suspension settings that allow you to tailor the ride to your weight and the road conditions.
Fuel Efficiency and Range: Going the Distance
When you’re on a long-distance ride, you need a bike that can go the distance without requiring frequent fuel stops. Fuel efficiency is crucial for adventure motorcycles, especially when planning to explore remote areas with limited access to gas stations. A bike with a large fuel tank and good fuel economy will ensure you can cover long distances without worrying about running out of gas.
Adventure motorcycles typically feature large tanks, often ranging from 5 to 7 gallons. This large tank provides the range needed for extended tours, especially when combined with fuel-efficient engines. Additionally, look for motorcycles with fuel injection systems, which tend to offer better fuel efficiency compared to carbureted bikes.
Having the ability to travel long distances on a single tank of gas also means fewer stops, saving you time and allowing you to focus on the journey. Some models also come with extended-range tanks as accessories, which can be added if you’re planning a particularly long ride through remote areas.
Cargo Capacity: Carrying What You Need
On a long-distance tour, carrying enough gear is essential. Depending on the duration of your trip, you’ll need to bring along camping equipment, extra clothing, tools, and other essentials. The best adventure motorcycles for touring will come with ample cargo space to store your gear.
Most adventure bikes are equipped with luggage racks, which allow you to attach saddlebags or panniers. Panniers are typically complicated cases that attach to the sides of the bike and offer weatherproof storage. Soft saddlebags are another option, often lighter, but they may not provide the same level of security or protection from the elements. Many riders opt for a combination of both, using soft saddlebags for easy access and hard panniers for more valuable or fragile items.
Additionally, look for a motorcycle that has provisions for mounting a top case, which helps store items you need to access quickly. Some bikes also offer tank bags, which provide easy access to smaller items, such as maps, cameras, or snacks.
When assessing cargo capacity, ensure the bike’s weight distribution is balanced. Overloading the rear of the bike can make it difficult to control, especially on rough terrain. A well-balanced load is essential for maintaining stability and handling, particularly when riding with luggage.
Performance: Handling Diverse Terrain
Adventure motorcycles are designed to tackle a variety of terrains, from smooth highways to rugged dirt trails. To choose the best bike, you need to understand the riding you plan to do and the level of performance you require from the bike.
For long-distance touring, comfort, and stability on the road are vital, but you’ll also need a bike that can handle gravel roads, dirt paths, and uneven trails without issue. Look for motorcycles that have a solid suspension system and a capable engine that can handle various conditions.
The engine displacement of an adventure motorcycle plays a significant role in performance. While larger engines offer more power, a smaller engine may be more fuel-efficient and easier to manage for beginners. Generally, an engine size between 800cc and 1200cc strikes a balance between power and efficiency, providing sufficient torque for challenging terrains while remaining manageable on highways.
Tire choice is another critical performance factor. Adventure motorcycles often come equipped with dual-sport tires, designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions. Depending on the type of terrain you plan to ride on, you may want to invest in tires that provide better grip or durability.
Safety Features: Riding with Confidence
Safety is always a top priority when choosing any motorcycle, and even more so when embarking on long-distance touring. The best adventure motorcycles are equipped with safety features that help you stay in control, especially when riding through unpredictable conditions.
Look for motorcycles with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), which prevent the wheels from locking up during emergency braking, especially on slippery surfaces. Traction control is another useful feature, helping maintain control of the bike during acceleration, particularly on loose or uneven surfaces.
Additionally, consider the bike’s lighting system. Proper visibility is essential when riding at night or in low-light conditions. LED lights, for example, provide better visibility while using less energy, and many modern adventure bikes are equipped with enhanced lighting systems for improved safety.
Choosing the Right Adventure Motorcycle for Your Touring Needs
When selecting an adventure motorcycle for long-distance touring, consider the type of trip you want to take. Do you plan to stick mostly to paved roads, or are you hoping to explore off-road trails as well? What level of comfort, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency do you require? Understanding your needs and preferences will help you choose the bike that provides the best experience for your journey.
The best adventure motorcycles for long-distance touring strike a balance between comfort, performance, fuel efficiency, and cargo capacity while also providing the ability to handle a variety of terrains. Consider all aspects of the ride—whether you’ll be cruising on smooth highways or navigating rough trails—and choose a motorcycle that will support your adventure from start to finish. With the right bike, your long-distance touring experience will be enjoyable, comfortable, and safe.