Motorcycle companies continually engineer new beasts for long-distance and off-road travel. Endurance, fuel economy, design and displacement are key factors when choosing bikes for long rides. We’ve curated a list of the best bikes for long-distance touring in India and beyond.
#1 Royal Enfield Himalayan
Available in 3 variants, the Royal Enfield Himalayan is a motorcycle targeted at off-road travel. It is one of the most affordable bikes by Royal Enfield in the touring and adventure sector. The Himalayan has notable merits like high ground clearance, a powerful single-cylinder engine, displacement of 411 cc, and switchable anti-locking braking system.
- Weight: 199 kg
- Mileage: 30 kmpl
- Max torque: 32 Nm at 4500 rpm
- Price: Rs. 2.10 – 2.17 Lakhs (approx.)
#2 KTM 390 Duke
One of the best bikes for long drive in India is the aggressive and efficient KTM 390 Duke, sold in ceramic white and silver metallic variants. Weighing only 167 kg, it is one of the lightest long-distance thrill bikes packed with a compact and powerful engine and advanced riding features. There is a colour-TFT screen which connects via Bluetooth to the rider’s phone. The bike sports a manual 6 speed gearbox.
- Weight: 167 kg
- Mileage: 28.9 kmpl
- Max torque: 37 Nm at 7000 rpm
- Price: Rs. 2.87 lakh (approx.)
Additional Read: Check out Safety Tips for Bike Riders
#3 Bajaj Dominar 400
Bajaj has assessed the Indian consumer market well and developed one of the most affordable commuter bikes, the Dominar 400. With a displacement of 373.3 cc, the bike sports a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine which can generate up to 35 Nm of power. The Bajaj Dominar features LED highlight as well as turn indicators which are useful for visibility during off-road travel. Other notable features include a twin-display setup and a slipper clutch.
- Weight: 187 kg
- Mileage: 27-34 kmpl
- Max Torque: 35 Nm at 6500 rpm
- Price: Rs. 1.97 – 2.12 Lakhs (approx.)
#4 Jawa Perak
A true blue-bobber, this retro cruiser bike has taken the Indian market by storm since its relaunch. This powerful machine is equipped with a 343 cc, fuel-injected motor which is liquid-cooled. The rider experience is enhanced by optimised gear ratios, along with a double-cradle frame. It sports disc bakes at both ends, dual-channel ABS adding a touch of strength.
The seat fashions a tail lamp right below it and the rear fender supports the indicators. The minimalistic design and bodywork, along with its strong engine and high fuel economy make it one of the best bikes for long drive in India.
- Weight: 175 kg
- Mileage: 30 kmpl
- Max Torque: 32. 74 Nm
- Price: Rs. 2.06 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
Additional Read: 8 Tips to Increase your Bike Mileage
#5 Mahindra Mojo 300 ABS
The Mahindra Mojo 300 ABS launched in 2019 is popular for its torque and refinement. While it is slightly on the bulkier side, this commuter bike is a brilliant touring machine with its 6-speed manual gearbox, wide comfortable seat, anti-locking braking system and 294.72 cc engine.
- Weight: 186.2 kg
- Mileage: 30-35 kmpl
- Max Torque: 25.96 Nm at 6,000 rpm
- Price: Rs. 1.99 – 2. 1 Lakhs (Ex-showroom)
#6 Kawasaki Versys 650
Any list of long ride bikes in Indiais incomplete without the Japanese beast, Kawasaki Versys 650!Bearing wide rider and pillion seats, this sports adventure tourer is a dream come true for frequent travellers. Its juice comes from a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that produces a power of 65.71 bhp and a 6-speed gearbox, perfect for cruising across landmarks. It also sports premium specs like dual-channel ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels, 21-litre fuel tank, among others.
- Weight: 218 kg
- Mileage: 21 – 28.17 kmpl
- Max Torque: 61 Nm
- Price: Rs. 6.9 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
#7 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
A modern spin on 1960’s classic Interceptor cruiser, Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, fueled by a 648 cc BS6 engine, is a 195 kg force to reckon with. While it only offers a simple, plain design, what makes it a rider favourite are features like refined engine, 6-speed gearbox, wide handlebars, diamond-quilted seats, among others.
- Weight: 202 kg
- Mileage: 25 – 30 Kmpl
- Max Torque: 52 Nm
- Price: Rs. 2.8 Lakhs (Ex-showroom)
Your turn
Wish to add any of these commuter bikes to your garage? Long-distance travel bikes can be quite an expensive purchase. Turn your dream into a reality by owning your dream bike using two-wheeler loan.
Tata Capital can assist you with quick and easy loans at reasonable bike loan interest rates. For more information, contact us today!
