Touring Motorcycles: Pros and Cons
Touring motorcycles are unique in that they are designed for long-distance riding rather than speed or maneuverability. As a result, they differ from other types of motorcycle in small but appreciable ways. If you’re interested in learning more about the pros and cons of using a touring cycle, this guide from Mancuso Harley-Davidson® Crossroads has more details.
Pro: Comfort
Riding a motorcycle requires more active effort than other types of passenger vehicles. The rider needs to shift their weight to turn properly, as well as maintain their balance. While not as noticeable on short rides, this can be very draining on long journeys. That’s why touring motorcycles contain a lot of features meant to make riding more comfortable, including an upright riding posture, padded seats, and extended fairings that deflect wind away from the rider. Even if you’re not planning on going on a long trip, you’ll appreciate how comfortable a touring motorcycle is to ride.
Con: Maneuverability
Touring motorcycles are mostly designed for highway riding, where being able to eat up long stretches of highway is more important than agility. They have big, bulky frames and can be a pain to steer. While experienced riders are usually able to compensate, they’re not a good fit for situations where you need to make a lot of turns.
Pro: Extra Storage
The longer the trip, the more supplies you’ll need. That’s why touring motorcycles usually feature plenty of storage room. You’ll be able to pack your miniature tool kit, rainproof outerwear, water bottle, and first aid kit close at hand while still having more than enough room for overnight supplies like medications and toiletries. Most models also feature the option to upgrade your storage if your current setup isn’t enough.
Con: Fuel Efficiency
While motorcycles are generally pretty fuel efficient due to their lightness, touring motorcycles are some of the heaviest bikes on the market. This bigger, bulkier frame means that the bike will burn through more fuel than other types of motorcycle. While some would argue that having bigger fuel tanks makes this a moot point, you might want to consider purchasing a different kind of motorcycle if you’re not planning on doing a lot of long-distance riding.
Shop touring motorcycles at Mancuso Harley-Davidson® Crossroads in Houston, Texas. We’re proud to serve communities like Sugar Land, College Station, and The Woodlands, Texas. We also offer service, parts, test drives, financing, apparel, and riding lessons. We hope to see you soon!