Touring bike (tourer)

Touring means long-distance motorcycle travel, and a touring bike or tourer is designed for it. Typical features are a large fairing and windscreen, an upright or relaxed riding position, a comfortable seat for rider and passenger, hard panniers and often a top box, a big fuel tank and a smooth, torquey engine.

Many tourers add heated grips and seats, cruise control, electronic suspension adjustment and navigation. Sport-tourers trade some comfort for sharper handling, while adventure bikes combine touring ability with gravel-road capability.

When choosing, consider the weight, especially if you often ride two-up or manoeuvre in car parks, the seat height, the luggage capacity and the service intervals and dealer network along your usual routes.