Here’s a breakdown of some top contenders for best bikes for touring across various price brackets:
Budget-Friendly (Below ₹2 Lakhs):
- Hero XPulse 200 4V:
- Price: Starting from ₹1.45 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 199.8cc engine, 18.1 PS power, 17.1 Nm torque, 5-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 14 liters, ground clearance 220mm.
- What We Like: Lightweight (157 kg), nimble handling, excellent fuel efficiency (40 kmpl+), affordable price, readily available service network.
- What We Dislike: Limited power for highways, smaller fuel tank limits range, lacks wind protection for long rides.
- Honda CB200X
- Price: Starting from ₹1.47 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 184.4cc engine, 17.83 PS power, 16.1 Nm torque, 5-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 12 liters, ground clearance 170mm.
- What We Like: Comfortable upright riding position, smooth engine, decent fuel economy (35 kmpl), reliable Honda brand, widespread service network.
- What We Dislike: Limited power for high speeds, smaller fuel tank limits range, soft suspension may struggle with heavy loads.
Mid-Range (₹2 Lakhs – ₹4 Lakhs):
- Royal Enfield Himalayan:
- Price: Starting from ₹2.69 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 411cc engine, 24.3 PS power, 32 Nm torque, 5-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 15 liters, ground clearance 200mm.
- What We Like: Rugged build quality, excellent off-road capability, comfortable touring ergonomics, strong aftermarket support, large community of riders.
- What We Dislike: Engine can feel vibey at high speeds, limited on-road performance, average fuel economy (30-35 kmpl).
- Bajaj Dominar 400:
- Price: Starting from ₹2.29 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 373.3cc engine, 39.4 PS power, 35 Nm torque, 6-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 13 liters, ground clearance 184mm.
- What We Like: Powerful engine for highway cruising, comfortable touring posture, long-distance capability, feature-packed (cruise control, slipper clutch), good value for money.
- What We Dislike: Heavy weight (184 kg) can affect agility, smaller fuel tank limits range, average fuel economy (25-30 kmpl).
- Yezdi Adventure:
- Price: Starting from ₹2.16 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 334cc liquid-cooled engine, 30.4 PS power, 29.9 Nm torque, 6-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 19 liters, ground clearance 200mm.
- What We Like: Modern design and features, comfortable ergonomics, decent off-road capability, unique styling, competitive pricing.
- What We Dislike: New model with limited service network and aftermarket support, long-term reliability yet to be proven, performance figures not segment-leading.
- Suzuki V-Strom SX:
- Price: Starting from ₹2.12 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 249cc engine, 26.5 PS power, 22.2 Nm torque, 6-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 12 liters, ground clearance 205mm.
- What We Like: Affordable adventure touring option, fuel-efficient engine (32 kmpl+), lightweight and easy to handle, comfortable riding position, good ground clearance for off-roading.
- What We Dislike: Limited power for highways, smaller fuel tank limits range, lacks wind protection for long rides.
Premium (Above ₹4 Lakhs):
- Royal Enfield Interceptor 650:
- Price: Starting from ₹3.02 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 648cc engine, 47 PS power, 52 Nm torque, 6-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 13.5 liters, ground clearance 170mm.
- What We Like: Refined and powerful engine for effortless cruising, comfortable touring ergonomics, classic Royal Enfield charm, strong brand presence.
- What We Dislike: Limited off-road capability, smaller fuel tank limits range, heavier weight (202 kg) can affect handling in tight spaces.
- BMW G 310 GS:
- Price: Starting from ₹3.30 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Specifications: 313cc liquid-cooled engine, 34 PS power, 28 Nm torque, 6-speed gearbox, fuel tank capacity 11 liters, ground clearance 180mm.
- What We Like: German engineering for premium quality, comfortable ride and precise handling, good off-road prowess, strong brand image, widespread service network.
- What We Dislike: Limited power for highways, smaller fuel tank limits range, premium price tag.
BMW R 1250 RT
Price: Starting at ₹24.95 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
Specifications:
- 1254cc engine, 134.1 bhp power, 143 Nm torque
- 6-speed gearbox
- Fuel tank capacity: 25 liters
- Ground clearance: 180mm
- Weight: 279 kg
What We Like:
- Powerful and refined engine: Delivers smooth and effortless power for highway cruising, excellent fuel efficiency for its size (around 30 kmpl).
- Technology powerhouse: Features a large TFT display, navigation, adaptive cruise control, advanced rider aids, and premium sound system.
- Outstanding build quality and reliability: Renowned BMW engineering ensures a robust and reliable touring companion.
- Strong brand presence and service network: Provides peace of mind with readily available support across India.
What We Dislike:
- Premium price tag: Significantly more expensive than other options on this list, making it a luxury purchase.
- Heavyweight: Can be intimidating for new riders and challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Limited off-road capability: Not designed for serious off-roading, best suited for paved roads.
- Fuel tank size: While decent, could be larger for extended touring considering the bike’s range and fuel efficiency.
