Best Motorcycles for Couples 2024 | Top Picks for Two-Up Riding
Finding the perfect motorcycle for couples is all about combining style, comfort, and performance into one thrilling package. Whether you’re planning scenic weekend rides or long-distance adventures, the ideal bike should offer enough power to keep things exciting while also providing a smooth, comfortable ride for both the rider and passenger. From spacious seating arrangements to features designed for two-up touring, the best motorcycles for couples turn every journey into a shared experience full of freedom and excitement. Let’s dive into the top options that perfectly balance practicality and romance on the open road.
#1 Honda Gold Wing Tour
The Honda Gold Wing Tour is a motorcycle built for long-distance comfort, and it doesn’t shy away from the luxury side of touring. The plush, spacious seats feel like you’re sitting on a cloud, with plenty of room for both rider and passenger to stretch out and settle in for the long haul, making it the best motorcycle for couples who prioritize comfort. Heated seats and a high-tech infotainment system are just the beginning—this bike is packed with features to make the ride smoother and more enjoyable. The 1833cc flat-six engine delivers a silky-smooth, powerful ride, even with extra weight on board.
One thing couples will really appreciate is the seamless handling, especially given the size of this behemoth. Whether you’re navigating twisty mountain roads or cruising down the highway, the Gold Wing remains impressively nimble. It’s got a reverse gear too, which comes in handy when maneuvering in tight spots. Plus, with ample luggage space, there’s no need to compromise on what you bring along for the trip.
The Gold Wing isn’t just about the ride; it’s about the experience. Think of it as a luxury car on two wheels. Whether you’re riding for a few hours or all day, this motorcycle ensures you’ll both stay relaxed and entertained with its integrated sound system and cruise control. For couples who love to explore the open road together, this is the gold standard.
#2 Suzuki V-Strom 650
If you’re looking for an adventure bike that can handle two-up riding with ease, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 is a fantastic pick. It might not be the biggest bike on the list, but don’t let its size fool you. The 645cc V-twin engine provides just the right amount of power to cruise comfortably without being overwhelming. This is especially important for couples who enjoy both city commuting and weekend getaways into the wild.
The V-Strom 650 is all about versatility. Its lightweight frame and excellent stability make it easy to maneuver, even with a passenger on board. Your partner will appreciate the roomy seat and the option to add storage cases for longer trips. On top of that, the bike offers decent wind protection, which is often overlooked in smaller adventure bikes but makes a big difference on those breezy highway rides.
For couples who don’t necessarily need a full-on touring bike but still want to enjoy weekend escapes, this bike is a solid choice. It handles a variety of terrains well, and while it may not have the luxury features of a Gold Wing, it gets the job done with minimal fuss. Comfortable, reliable, and affordable, the V-Strom 650 is a great adventure companion for couples.
#3 BMW K 1600 GTL
The BMW K 1600 GTL is a dream machine for couples who love to travel in style. Right off the bat, its 1649cc inline-six engine stands out for its sheer smoothness and power, making highway riding feel like you’re floating on air. This bike doesn’t just get you from point A to point B—it turns the journey itself into the adventure. And with its elegant design and premium materials, it’s clear BMW spared no expense in crafting this tourer.
What makes the K 1600 GTL particularly attractive for two-up riding is the excellent ergonomics. The seat is spacious and adjustable, ensuring comfort for both rider and passenger, even on multi-day trips. The adjustable suspension and multiple riding modes allow the bike to adapt to varying road conditions effortlessly, making it equally suited for both smooth highways and winding country roads.
But it’s not just about comfort—this bike also brings top-notch tech to the table. Features like adaptive headlights, heated grips, and TFT displays make every ride feel futuristic. For couples who crave a high-end, tech-savvy touring experience, the BMW K 1600 GTL offers luxury on every level.
#4 Harley-Davidson Road Glide
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide is a staple in the world of touring, offering a blend of comfort, power, and iconic style. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine delivers a deep, rumbling sound that any Harley fan will love, but it’s the bike’s balance of power and comfort that truly shines for two-up riding. Whether you’re cruising along a scenic highway or winding through city streets, the Road Glide’s frame-mounted fairing offers exceptional wind protection, making it easier to ride for longer periods without fatigue.
For the passenger, the spacious, comfortable seating is a huge bonus, with enough room to avoid feeling cramped on long journeys. Harley has also loaded this bike with modern features like Daymaker LED headlights and an infotainment system that’s perfect for keeping the mood lively during road trips. Plus, with plenty of storage options, you can pack everything you need for a weekend—or longer—on the road.
While it carries the iconic Harley look and feel, the Road Glide is designed to make life easier for both the rider and passenger. The handling is remarkably smooth, and the bike feels stable even when fully loaded. It’s a classic, comfortable cruiser that ensures both rider and passenger are enjoying the ride.
#5 Kawasaki Vulcan 900
The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 is the cruiser that doesn’t overdo it, yet still delivers everything a couple could want from a two-up riding experience. Powered by a 903cc V-twin engine, this bike strikes the perfect balance between power and manageability. It’s ideal for riders who may not want the heft of a larger touring bike but still crave a comfortable ride that can handle two people without breaking a sweat.
What sets the Vulcan 900 apart is its classic cruiser aesthetics combined with thoughtful features like a cushioned, well-padded seat for both rider and passenger. While it might not boast the advanced tech of some larger bikes, it’s easy to add saddlebags and a windshield for a more touring-friendly setup. The low seat height also makes it an approachable option for riders of all sizes.
Couples will appreciate the Vulcan’s relaxed riding position and smooth ride, making it ideal for leisurely cruises or weekend escapes. Its price point is also much more accessible than some of the other bikes on this list, making it a great option for couples who want comfort without going overboard.
#6 Indian Roadmaster Limited
The Indian Roadmaster Limited takes two-up touring to another level, combining classic cruiser style with modern tech and comfort. The 1811cc V-twin engine provides plenty of power, but it’s the bike’s smooth handling that really stands out, especially considering its hefty size. Whether you’re riding solo or with a passenger, the plush seats and roomy design ensure everyone’s comfortable on long stretches of road. It’s truly the best motorcycle for couples who want both style and comfort on their adventures.
The Roadmaster Limited comes loaded with high-tech features like a touchscreen infotainment system, heated seats, and a sound system that would make any ride feel like a luxury getaway. It also boasts generous storage space, with saddlebags and a top box for all your gear. This bike is built for couples who want to hit the open road without compromising on style or comfort.
Despite its size, the Roadmaster handles surprisingly well, with good balance and easy maneuverability, making it a pleasure to ride on both highways and winding roads. It’s the kind of bike that turns heads, and for couples looking to invest in a premium touring experience, it’s hard to beat.
#7 Yamaha Star Venture
The Yamaha Star Venture is a heavyweight contender in the cruiser world, built specifically with couples in mind. Its 1854cc V-twin engine delivers solid torque, making it perfect for long-distance cruising. This bike is a fully dressed touring machine, meaning it’s packed with comfort features like heated seats, an infotainment system, and plenty of storage options for extended trips.
One of the highlights for couples is the 7-inch touchscreen that controls everything from navigation to entertainment. The bike’s passenger seat is roomy, with an adjustable backrest that adds an extra layer of comfort. It’s the little details—like the smooth throttle response and comfortable ride posture—that make the Star Venture a great choice for couples who want to travel in comfort without sacrificing power.
While it’s a bit on the heavy side, the Star Venture is surprisingly nimble for its size. The air-cooled V-twin engine gives it a strong, steady pull on highways, and its suspension handles bumps with ease. If you and your partner are planning long-distance tours, this bike offers everything you could need for a smooth, enjoyable ride.
#8 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX
For couples who love speed but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX is an exciting option. With its supercharged 998cc inline-four engine, this sport-tourer brings a thrilling, high-performance experience to two-up riding. Despite its sportbike heritage, Kawasaki has done an impressive job of making the H2 SX comfortable for both the rider and passenger, ensuring long-distance rides aren’t just fast but enjoyable.
The beefed-up subframe on the H2 SX makes it more than capable of handling the weight of a passenger and luggage. It also comes with modern features like multiple riding modes and advanced suspension to keep the ride smooth, even when you’re pushing the speed limits. 200 horsepower might sound intimidating, but this bike makes it feel effortless, giving you power and control in equal measure.
If you’re a couple that craves the thrill of speed while also enjoying the comforts of a well-designed tourer, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX strikes the perfect balance. This motorcycle lets you feel the rush of acceleration while ensuring that you and your passenger remain relaxed and comfortable, no matter how fast you’re going.
