Cheap Touring Motorcycles 2024 | Top Budget-Friendly Touring Bikes
Embarking on a cross-country adventure doesn’t have to break the bank. With the rise of budget-friendly touring motorcycles, the dream of exploring winding roads, scenic routes, and hidden gems is more accessible than ever. These affordable two-wheelers offer a blend of comfort, reliability, and efficiency, making them the perfect companions for long-distance journeys. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the touring scene, these economical bikes promise an unforgettable ride without sacrificing performance or style. Dive into the world of cheap touring motorcycles and discover the thrill of adventure on a budget.
#1 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT
The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT stands out in the crowded field of touring motorcycles by offering an exceptional balance of performance and comfort, all at a remarkably affordable price. The bike’s fully adjustable suspension and heated grips ensure a smooth and warm ride, no matter the weather conditions. This makes it ideal for long-distance touring, where comfort can often make or break the journey. The Tracer 900 GT’s quickshifter gear change adds to the bike’s sporty feel, making gear transitions seamless and giving you a more dynamic riding experience.
What sets the Tracer 900 GT apart is its color-matched panniers, which are not just practical but also add to the bike’s aesthetic appeal. The panniers provide ample storage for all your touring needs, ensuring that you can pack everything from riding gear to personal essentials without any hassle. Furthermore, the bike’s cruise control option is a feature typically found on more expensive models, making long stretches of highway riding much more manageable and less tiring.
Overall, the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT is a versatile machine that caters to both the sporty rider and the long-distance tourer. Its combination of advanced features and reasonable pricing makes it a top contender in the touring motorcycle market. Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or just a weekend getaway, the Tracer 900 GT promises to deliver a comfortable and thrilling ride.
#2 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT is a revelation in the sport-touring segment, offering an exhilarating blend of performance and practicality. Even when compared to some cheap touring motorcycles, this bike stands out. Powered by a robust 999cc engine that churns out an impressive 150 horsepower, this bike is designed to satisfy your need for speed while ensuring stability and control. The inclusion of Brembo brakes and semi-active suspension underscores Suzuki’s commitment to safety and handling, providing you with confidence on both winding roads and open highways.
One of the standout features of the GSX-S1000GT is its affordability without compromise. Despite its high-performance capabilities, Suzuki has managed to keep the price point accessible, making it an attractive option for riders looking to enter the sport-touring market. The bike’s design is both aggressive and stylish, with a sharp, aerodynamic fairing that not only enhances its looks but also improves its performance by reducing drag.
Comfort is not sacrificed for performance, as evidenced by the bike’s ergonomic design. The seating position is crafted to reduce fatigue, making it perfect for long rides. The GT variant comes with panniers as standard, offering plenty of storage for your touring essentials. All these features combined make the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT a formidable choice for those seeking a reliable, powerful, and stylish sport-touring motorcycle.
#3 Honda NX500
The Honda NX500 is a newcomer that’s quickly making waves in the touring motorcycle scene. It builds on the legacy of the CB500X, incorporating modern features while maintaining the reliability Honda is known for. With its Showa forks and full LED lighting, the NX500 promises a superior riding experience even in less-than-ideal conditions. The bike’s new styling gives it a robust and contemporary look, which is sure to turn heads on the road.
At the heart of the NX500 is a 471cc engine, delivering enough power for both urban commutes and light off-road adventures. This engine is paired with a 19-inch front wheel, enhancing its capability to handle varied terrains. The transition from the CB500X to the NX500 also brings a TFT dash, providing a clear and modern interface for all your riding data and navigation needs.
Affordability is one of the NX500’s strongest suits. Priced at approximately $6,799, it offers a lot of value for the money. This makes it an excellent choice for riders looking for a budget-friendly yet capable touring bike. Its light weight and nimble handling make it easy to maneuver, while its design ensures comfort over long distances. The Honda NX500 is perfect for those who want a versatile, reliable, and stylish touring motorcycle without breaking the bank.
#4 Benelli TRK 502 X
The Benelli TRK 502 X is an excellent choice for riders seeking a full-size adventure touring experience on a budget. This motorcycle, powered by a 47 hp parallel-twin engine, offers a commendable balance of power and efficiency, making it perfect for both city commutes and off-road escapades. The TRK 502 X is designed to handle a variety of terrains with ease, thanks to its robust build and thoughtful engineering.
One of the highlights of the TRK 502 X is its value for money. Priced at around £5,499, it provides features and performance typically found in more expensive bikes. The wire wheels and crash protection enhance its off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for adventure enthusiasts. Its design is reminiscent of the Ducati Multistrada, but at a fraction of the cost, giving riders an affordable way to experience premium features.
Comfort and practicality are at the forefront of the TRK 502 X’s design. The ergonomically designed seat and ample luggage options ensure that long rides are both comfortable and convenient. Despite its budget-friendly price, the bike doesn’t skimp on essentials, offering a reliable and enjoyable riding experience. The Benelli TRK 502 X is a testament to how much you can get without spending a fortune, making it a standout in the adventure touring category.
#5 CFMoto 700MT
The CFMoto 700MT is a testament to the growing prowess of Chinese motorcycle manufacturers. This bike offers a 66 hp twin-cylinder engine that provides a smooth and responsive ride, making it suitable for both urban commuting and light touring. The transition from the 650MT to the 700MT brings improvements in both performance and aesthetics, ensuring that riders get a bike that’s both powerful and visually appealing.
One of the key selling points of the 700MT is its affordable pricing. At around £6,699, it significantly undercuts many of its competitors in the adventure touring segment. Despite its lower price, it doesn’t compromise on features. The bike comes with a semi-active suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride over various terrains. Its design is practical and robust, catering to the needs of long-distance riders.
Comfort and practicality are also major focuses of the 700MT. The bike features a comfortable seat and ample luggage space, making it ideal for long trips. The TFT dash provides clear and accessible information, enhancing the riding experience. Overall, the CFMoto 700MT is a great choice for riders looking for an affordable, capable, and reliable touring motorcycle that doesn’t break the bank.
#6 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS is a blend of classic cruiser aesthetics and modern touring capabilities. Powered by a 1,700cc V-twin engine, this bike offers smooth and powerful performance, perfect for long-distance journeys. The Voyager’s frame-mounted fairing and full-feature audio system make it a luxurious choice for touring enthusiasts who value comfort and style.
Safety and convenience are at the forefront of the Vulcan 1700 Voyager’s design. Despite being a premium choice among touring motorcycles, it offers features that you might not expect even from some cheap touring motorcycles. The bike features Kawasaki’s Advanced Co Active-braking Technology (K-ACT) with ABS, ensuring reliable stopping power and enhanced safety. The electronic cruise control and high-capacity integrated luggage system further add to its touring credentials, allowing riders to travel in comfort and carry all their essentials with ease.
Priced at approximately $19,799, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager offers a premium touring experience without the exorbitant price tag. Its classic styling, combined with modern technology, makes it a compelling choice for riders who want the best of both worlds. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or exploring new destinations, the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager promises a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
#7 BMW R1250RS
The BMW R1250RS is a masterclass in sport-touring, combining the best of performance and comfort in a sleek package. Equipped with a 1254cc boxer engine that produces 134 horsepower, this bike is designed for riders who crave power and precision. The R1250RS’s adaptive cruise control and extensive touring accessories make it an excellent choice for long-distance rides and daily commutes alike.
BMW has a long-standing reputation for quality, and the R1250RS is no exception. The bike features a 10.5-inch TFT display that provides all the necessary information at a glance, ensuring a seamless riding experience. The adjustable seat and screen offer personalized comfort, making it easy to find the perfect riding position for any journey. The bike’s robust build quality ensures durability and reliability, hallmarks of the BMW brand.
Priced at around $13,140, the BMW R1250RS offers a premium riding experience without an exorbitant price tag. Its combination of advanced technology, comfort, and performance makes it a top contender in the sport-touring category. Whether navigating city streets or tackling winding mountain roads, the R1250RS delivers a ride that’s both exhilarating and comfortable.
#8 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX redefines the sport-touring segment with its supercharged 998cc engine, offering unparalleled performance and speed. This bike is designed for riders who seek the thrill of a sport bike combined with the comfort and practicality of a tourer. The Ninja H2 SX’s advanced electronics package includes features like traction control, cornering management, and ABS, ensuring a safe and controlled ride. These systems work together seamlessly to provide maximum stability and confidence, whether you’re carving through twisty mountain roads or cruising on the highway.
What truly sets the Ninja H2 SX apart is its ability to deliver high-performance touring without compromising on rider comfort. The bike’s ergonomic design includes a well-padded seat and adjustable handlebars, ensuring that long rides don’t result in undue fatigue. The integrated panniers offer substantial storage space, making it easy to pack for extended trips. The aerodynamic design not only enhances its sleek look but also improves fuel efficiency and reduces wind resistance, contributing to a smoother ride.
Priced competitively in its segment, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX offers a unique combination of power and practicality. It’s an ideal choice for riders who want the exhilaration of a supercharged engine coupled with the amenities and comfort required for long-distance touring. Whether you’re a seasoned sport rider looking to expand into touring or a touring enthusiast seeking more performance, the Ninja H2 SX delivers on all fronts, making it a standout in the sport-touring category.
