5 Best Bikes For Long Trips In India: Finding Your Perfect Touring Companion
There's something profoundly liberating about motorcycle touring in India. The wind rushing past, the changing landscapes, and the intimate connection with your surroundings create an experience unlike any other. However, choosing the right motorcycle can make the difference between a memorable adventure and an uncomfortable ordeal.
As someone who's researched extensively about motorcycle touring and spoken with numerous long-distance riders, I've gathered insights on what makes a great touring motorcycle in the Indian context. The ideal touring bike needs to balance comfort, reliability, fuel efficiency, and the ability to handle diverse road conditions – from smooth highways to unpredictable back roads.
Based on comprehensive research and industry knowledge, I've compiled this list of the 5 best motorcycles for long trips in India. Each bike has proven itself worthy through user reports, expert reviews, and performance data from manufacturers and independent testers.
1. Royal Enfield Bullet 350: The Iconic Tourer
When discussing touring motorcycles in India, it's almost impossible not to start with the Royal Enfield Bullet 350. This iconic machine has been the go-to choice for generations of touring enthusiasts, and for good reason.
Why the Bullet 350 Excels for Long Trips
The Bullet 350's reputation as a touring machine stems from several key factors that consistently appear in user reviews and expert assessments:
- Legendary reliability: The simple, air-cooled 349cc engine is known for its dependability on long journeys. While not the most powerful, it delivers consistent performance that touring riders value.
- Comfortable ergonomics: The upright riding position, well-padded seat, and relaxed footpeg placement make it possible to cover hundreds of kilometers without significant fatigue.
- Excellent low-end torque: The 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque might seem modest on paper, but the Bullet delivers its power in a way that's perfect for cruising at 80-90 km/h – the sweet spot for touring.
- Widespread service network: Perhaps one of its most significant advantages for long-distance travel in India is the availability of service centers and mechanics familiar with Royal Enfields in virtually every corner of the country.
According to customer feedback forums and ownership reports, Bullet owners routinely achieve fuel efficiency between 30-35 km/l on highways, giving it an impressive range of approximately 500 km on a single tank – a crucial factor for touring in remote areas where fuel stations may be scarce.
The Bullet 350's starting price of ₹1.74 lakh (ex-showroom) also makes it one of the more accessible options for aspiring touring enthusiasts, though I would recommend budgeting for additions like a windscreen, saddle stays, and possibly upgraded seat padding for enhanced long-distance comfort.
2. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: The Adventure Tourer
The newly launched Himalayan 450 represents Royal Enfield's evolution in the adventure touring segment, addressing many of the limitations of its predecessor while maintaining the core attributes that made the original Himalayan a favorite among touring enthusiasts.
The Ultimate All-Terrain Tourer
The Himalayan 450 has quickly gained recognition in the touring community for several standout features:
- Powerful new Sherpa 450 engine: The 452cc liquid-cooled single delivers 40.02 PS and 40 Nm of torque – a significant upgrade that provides better highway performance and overtaking capability compared to the previous model.
- Superior suspension travel: With 200mm front and 180mm rear suspension travel, the Himalayan 450 absorbs the worst of India's road imperfections, reducing rider fatigue on long journeys.
- Impressive ground clearance: At 230mm, it can tackle unexpected obstacles, flooded roads, and mild off-road sections that would force other bikes to turn back.
- Advanced features: The inclusion of ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, and a TFT display with Google Maps integration makes it a thoroughly modern touring option.
Reports from test rides and early ownership experiences suggest fuel efficiency ranges between 25-30 km/l depending on riding conditions and speed. With its 17-liter fuel tank, this provides approximately 425-510 km of range – sufficient for most touring days.
Priced at ₹2.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the Himalayan 450 represents excellent value considering its capabilities. Many touring riders report that the bike comes tour-ready with minimal modifications needed, though some add auxiliary lights and heated grips for rides to colder regions like Ladakh or Spiti Valley.
3. KTM 390 Adventure: The Performance Tourer
For riders who want touring capability without sacrificing performance, the KTM 390 Adventure strikes an impressive balance. This Austrian-designed, Indian-manufactured machine brings KTM's renowned performance DNA to the touring segment.
Performance Meets Practicality
Based on feedback from owners and expert reviews, the 390 Adventure offers several advantages for performance-oriented touring:
- Class-leading power: The 373cc liquid-cooled engine produces 43.5 PS and 37 Nm of torque, providing exhilarating performance even when fully loaded with touring gear.
- Advanced electronics: Cornering ABS, traction control, and switchable ride modes enhance safety on varied road conditions encountered during long trips.
- Premium suspension: The WP APEX suspension setup offers adjustability to accommodate different loads and riding conditions.
- Lightweight construction: At 172 kg (dry), it's considerably lighter than most touring options, making it more manageable in challenging situations.
Touring riders report achieving approximately 25-30 km/l during highway cruising, which translates to about 350-420 km from its 14.5-liter tank. While this range is less than some competitors, the trade-off in performance is worth it for many enthusiasts.
The 390 Adventure is priced at ₹3.37 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it in the premium segment. However, many owners note that it requires fewer aftermarket additions than other bikes, as it comes equipped with features like a 12V charging socket, adjustable windscreen, and robust luggage mounting points.
4. Suzuki V-Strom SX 250: The Efficient Tourer
Not everyone needs a large-displacement motorcycle for touring. The Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 proves that a well-designed quarter-liter bike can be an excellent touring companion, especially for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of handling.
Small Displacement, Big Capabilities
The V-Strom SX has garnered positive feedback from riders for several touring-friendly attributes:
- Exceptional fuel efficiency: Owners consistently report 35-40 km/l during highway touring, translating to an impressive range of 420-480 km from its 12-liter tank.
- Comfortable ergonomics: The upright seating position, protective windscreen, and well-designed seat allow for fatigue-free riding over extended periods.
- Reliable performance: The 249cc oil-cooled engine produces 26.5 PS and 22.2 Nm of torque – sufficient for maintaining comfortable cruising speeds of 90-100 km/h.
- Manageable weight: At 167 kg (kerb), it's one of the lighter touring options, making it less intimidating for less experienced riders or those of smaller stature.
According to service center data and user reports, the V-Strom SX demonstrates excellent reliability with minimal issues reported during the crucial first 30,000 km – an important consideration for touring motorcycles.
With a price tag of ₹2.11 lakh (ex-showroom), the V-Strom SX represents good value for budget-conscious touring enthusiasts. Its lower weight and seat height also make it more accessible to a wider range of riders compared to larger adventure tourers.
5. Bajaj Dominar 400: The Value Tourer
The Bajaj Dominar 400 has established itself as perhaps the best value proposition in the Indian touring motorcycle segment. It combines performance, comfort, and reliability at a price point that's hard to match.
Maximum Touring Capability, Minimum Budget
The Dominar 400 has earned its reputation through several key strengths:
- Powerful engine: The 373.3cc liquid-cooled engine (derived from the KTM 390 series) delivers 40 PS and 35 Nm of torque, providing excellent highway performance and overtaking ability.
- Long-distance comfort: The relaxed riding position, split seat, and muscular tank design create a comfortable perch for covering hundreds of kilometers daily.
- Stability at speed: The perimeter frame and substantial weight (187 kg) contribute to exceptional stability at highway speeds, even in crosswinds or when fully loaded.
- USD forks and monoshock: The suspension setup strikes a good balance between handling and comfort, absorbing road imperfections effectively.
Based on owner reports, the Dominar 400 typically delivers 25-30 km/l during touring, giving it a range of 325-390 km from its 13-liter tank. While not class-leading, this is sufficient for most touring scenarios in India.
Perhaps most impressively, the Dominar 400 is priced at just ₹2.29 lakh (ex-showroom), making it significantly more affordable than many motorcycles with comparable performance. The value proposition is further enhanced by Bajaj's extensive service network across India.
Choosing the Right Touring Motorcycle for Your Needs
When selecting from these excellent touring options, consider your specific requirements:
- For classic touring experience: The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 remains unmatched for those seeking a traditional, unhurried touring experience with maximum reliability.
- For mixed terrain adventures: The Himalayan 450 excels when your journey involves significant off-road sections or remote areas with poor infrastructure.
- For performance enthusiasts: The KTM 390 Adventure delivers the most dynamic riding experience without sacrificing touring capability.
- For maximum efficiency: The Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 offers the best fuel economy and ease of handling for those who prefer lighter motorcycles.
- For value seekers: The Bajaj Dominar 400 provides the most performance per rupee, making it ideal for budget-conscious tourers.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Long Trips
Regardless of which motorcycle you choose, proper preparation is essential for trouble-free touring. Based on recommendations from experienced tourers and motorcycle technicians, consider these preparations:
- Professional service: Have your motorcycle thoroughly checked by a qualified technician before any major trip.
- Essential modifications: Consider adding a windscreen, crash protection, luggage solutions, and possibly a more comfortable seat depending on your chosen motorcycle.
- Spare parts kit: Carry essential spares like levers, tubes, fuses, and bulbs, along with a basic tool kit.
- Digital preparation: Download offline maps, research fuel stops, and identify service centers along your route.
Remember that the best touring motorcycle is ultimately the one that matches your riding style, budget, and the specific requirements of your journey. Each of these five motorcycles has proven itself capable of handling the diverse challenges of long-distance touring in India.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a months-long expedition across the subcontinent, these motorcycles offer the reliability, comfort, and capability to transform your journey from a simple trip into an unforgettable adventure. The open road awaits – choose your companion wisely!