Motorcycles and airplanes don’t often belong in the same conversation. But some motorcycles are so relentless and determined that they’ve racked up mileage that would make any Boeing blush. These high-mileage champions are the unsung heroes of the road, and their odometers are essentially ticking time bombs of bragging rights. Here are 20 motorcycles with such insane mileage they could rival airplanes!
Honda Gold Wing
We start with the undisputed heavyweight of high-mileage motorcycles: the Honda Gold Wing. A touring bike that laughs in the face of a mere road trip, the Gold Wing is known for its endurance. Riders have been known to push these machines past 400,000 miles. Once a famous Gold Wing owner, retired engineer Jack Lucas reportedly even racked up over 500,000 miles on his 1988 Gold Wing. That’s the equivalent of circling the globe 20 times! This bike is so reliable that owners joke about handing it down to their grandkids—if it doesn’t outlive them first.
BMW R 1150 GS
If motorcycles were people, the BMW R 1150 GS would be the gritty adventurer who lives out of a backpack and can’t stay in one place for long. These bikes were designed for adventure, and boy, do they deliver. One owner, Glen Heggstad, rode his R 1150 GS from California to the southernmost tip of South America—clocking over 300,000 miles along the way. It’s not uncommon to see these bikes hit 200,000 or more miles, thanks to their rugged design and meticulous German engineering.
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
Harley-Davidson is synonymous with iconic American road trips, and the Electra Glide is its trusty steed. With some owners logging more than 300,000 miles, it’s the bike of choice for those who view “long distance” as a challenge, not a deterrent. Sure, the Electra Glide might not be the most fuel-efficient bike in the world, but what it lacks in economy is that it makes up for in soul. Plus, if you spend hours cruising the highway, you might as well do it in style, right?
Suzuki V-Strom 650
You might think the Suzuki V-Strom 650 is the underdog of this list, but you’d be wrong. This mid-weight adventure bike is often called a “mileage mule” because it can pack on serious miles without a hiccup. Riders frequently report hitting 100,000 miles with minimal maintenance, and some even claim their V-Storms have surpassed as much as 200,000 miles. Sure, it may not be the fastest or flashiest bike, but it gets the job done—and that’s all that matters when you’re putting in airplane-esque mileage.
Yamaha FJR1300
Yamaha’s FJR1300 is the undisputed choice for those who participate in the Iron Butt Rally—an annual challenge where riders attempt to cover 1,000 miles in under 24 hours, which in itself is all the credibility it’s gonna need. But this sport-touring champ also gives you around 35-45 miles per gallon (mpg), depending on your enthusiasm with the throttle. On long highway cruises, you might push that number closer to 45 mpg, but start twisting the throttle hard, and it’ll hover around the 35-mpg mark. Also, with its 6.6-gallon tank, you can expect a comfy range of 230-300 miles before refueling.
Kawasaki KLR650
The Kawasaki KLR650 bike laughs at your fancy gadgets and gizmos. With a minimalist design and bulletproof engine, this dual-sport bike is built to withstand almost anything—including mileage figures that would make a 747-pilot proud. The KLR650 isn’t just about efficiency; it’s also about balance. It’ll stretch each gallon on highways but go off-roading, and that number might drop closer to 45 mpg. Still, not bad for a 652cc single-cylinder engine.
Honda ST1300
The Honda ST1300, often called the “Pan European” because it’s great for touring (and because Honda likes confusing names), is a machine known for its reliability and comfort. Let’s talk numbers — mileage! This beast boasts a fuel economy ranging from 35 to 45 miles per gallon (mpg), depending on how throttle-happy you are and the terrain. Some careful riders have even squeezed up to 50 mpg out of it, like squeezing juice from a stone. It’s a bike that’s comfortable, powerful, and reliable, making it the perfect choice for riders who want to see every last mile of asphalt the world offers.
Triumph Tiger 955i
Ah, the Triumph Tiger 955i—part adventure bike, part touring bike, and all-British class. On average, this 955cc, triple-cylinder adventure bike gulps fuel at about 35-40 miles per gallon (MPG). That’s pretty respectable for a motorcycle, but when you realize a commercial airplane gets about 0.2 MPG, the Tiger seems like a fuel-sipping genius. However, if you’re planning a cross-country trip, expect frequent stops to appease its 6.3-gallon tank.
Ducati Multistrada
You might associate Ducati with speed and style, but the Multistrada proves they can also do endurance. This Italian stallion is known for its versatility and can handle long distances just as quickly as it handles twisty mountain roads. Sure, the Multistrada can’t fly across the Atlantic, but with its 30-liter fuel tank, you could comfortably cover around 450-500 kilometers on a single fill-up. That’s a whole road trip before needing to refuel, unlike your neighborhood jumbo jet, which guzzles enough to drain a small oil well every time it takes off!
Honda CB750
The Honda CB750 is often considered the original superbike, and while it might not have the flashy gadgets of today’s models, it has something far more critical: Longevity. Riders have been known to push these bikes past 100,000 miles; some have even reached the 200,000-mile milestone. But if you’re living that “need for speed” life, prepare to see your mileage drop to the low 30s—because physics (and fuel) aren’t free! The CB750 balances power and fuel economy, making it a win-win, whether commuting or going full throttle in a mid-life crisis.
BMW K1200LT
The BMW K1200LT was designed for long-distance comfort, and its engine is more than capable of keeping up. The 6.3-gallon fuel tank gives you a range of about 240-280 miles on a full tank. Not bad for a bike that weighs as much as a baby elephant (about 835 pounds dry). If you’re planning long tours, the K1200LT’s fuel consumption might seem acceptable, especially given the luxury and gadgetry on board—though you’ll probably be stopping more for your rear end than the gas tank.
Yamaha Super Tenere
The Yamaha Super Tenere is an adventure bike designed to go the distance—literally. Powered by a 1,199cc parallel-twin engine, it provides a well-balanced mix of power and efficiency for long rides. The bike’s D-Mode (Drive Mode) and traction control settings allow for fine-tuning performance, further impacting fuel efficiency depending on the riding style and terrain. It’s the bike you’d want to take on a road trip from Alaska to Argentina—some people have.
Harley-Davidson Road King
As its name suggests, the Harley-Davidson Road King is the king of the road. This touring bike has been a favorite among Harley enthusiasts for decades, and its comfort makes it a high-mileage contender. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 or 114 V-twin engines, it delivers ample torque and cruising power. You can expect 45 MPG on the highway, thanks to the bike’s relaxed cruising mode and six-speed transmission. In city riding, though, this can dip to the lower end of the spectrum due to frequent stopping and acceleration.
Suzuki GSX-R1000
While the Suzuki GSX-R1000 is primarily known for its blistering speed, it’s also a bike that can handle some serious range. On average, the GSX-R1000 gives around 16-20 km/l (kilometers per liter), depending on riding conditions and habits. This figure can drop significantly when riding aggressively, as the inline-4 engine, which churns out 199 horsepower, tends to guzzle more fuel when pushed hard. Comparatively, though, the GSX-R1000’s mileage is on par with other 1000cc superbikes like the Yamaha R1 and Honda CBR1000RR, making it a reasonable choice for those balancing performance with running costs.
Kawasaki Concours 14
The Kawasaki Concours 14 is a sport-touring bike that combines speed with comfort, making it a favorite for riders who want to cover serious distances quickly. It features a 1,352cc inline-four engine, which is optimized for both power and economy. On average, the Concours 14 delivers around 38-42 miles per gallon (mpg), depending on riding conditions and style. This translates to a range of approximately 200-250 miles on a full 5.8-gallon tank, allowing riders to cover substantial distances without frequent refueling. Overall, the Concours 14 stands out for its performance and practical range, making it a top choice for touring enthusiasts.
BMW R 1200 RT
Another BMW makes the list, and this time, it’s the R 1200 RT—a bike known for its long-distance prowess. Under standard riding conditions, riders can expect mileage between 40 to 50 miles per gallon (mpg). This efficiency translates to around 5 to 7 liters per 100 kilometers (L/100km), depending on riding style, load, and terrain. The motorcycle is also powered by a 1,170cc air-cooled boxer engine, renowned for its balance of power and economy. Also, the fuel tank capacity of approximately 25 liters (6.6 gallons) allows for a substantial range, often exceeding 200 miles on a full tank.
Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird
The Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird, produced from 1996 to 2007, is renowned for its impressive performance and efficiency. Many Blackbird owners have reported surpassing 100,000 miles on these machines, proving they can handle both speed and endurance. Its aerodynamic design and advanced technology, such as fuel injection, help enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Moto Guzzi Norge
Moto Guzzi might not be as well-known as other brands on this list, but the Norge is a touring bike that can rack up serious mileage. With a 15-liter tank, you can gallivant for about 300 miles before scouring for a gas station—hopefully not while wearing your best leather jacket. The Norge is not just about the numbers; it’s designed for long-distance comfort. Just keep an eye on the fuel gauge and not get too carried away daydreaming about the Italian countryside!
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville bike is known for its classic styling and timeless appeal. Depending on the model and riding conditions, you can expect around 40 to 60 miles per gallon (mpg). That’s about as efficient as your cousin who insists on bringing a salad to the barbecue—noble but not quite what everyone wants. For instance, the 900cc engine in the Bonneville T100 tends to sip fuel delicately, while the 1200cc models can guzzle a bit more, especially if you’re tearing down the highway like a modern-day Peter Pan. Owners have reported around 55 mpg in everyday riding.
Harley-Davidson Sportster
The Harley-Davidson Sportster might not be the biggest or most powerful bike in Harley’s lineup, but it’s one of the most enduring. A 2017 model, for example, managed a respectable 47 mpg during a laid-back ride, while a sportier version may dip closer to 40 mpg when you’re channeling your inner hellraiser. So, if you’re planning a long journey, pack a snack and a few extra gallons of gas—just in case! It’s a bike built to last, and its simple design makes it easy to maintain over the long haul.
12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit
Reliability is a core feature that defines a vehicle. Over the last few decades, some vehicles have emerged as a reliable and durable option, standing out as workhorses that never quit. These vehicles not only prove themselves in terms of performance but transcend their role and become reliable partners, always fulfilling their role. Here are 12 Cars known for their unbreakable reliability.
12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit
