For many motorcycle riders, hopping onto a machine and crossing vast, uncharted landscapes is a dream that promises freedom, adventure, and a touch of madness. However, not all motorcycles are made to handle rough roads and endless highways. Enter the world of cross-country motorcycles. These bikes are more than just a means of transport; they’re built for long-haul journeys and endurance. Here are 24 motorcycles that can take you from one side of the continent to the other, rain or shine.
Honda Africa Twin
This adventure bike can take you from the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest to the scorching sands of the Sahara. Its robust 1,084cc engine and advanced electronics package make it the perfect companion for a trip that might involve dodging rainstorms and a herd of wildebeests. Plus, with its comfortable seat and plush suspension, you might forget you’re riding through a cross-country marathon.
BMW R1250 GS
Ah, the BMW R1250 GS—also known as the “King of Adventure Bikes.” This motorcycle is built for those who want to take on everything the planet can throw at them. With its 1,254cc engine and tech-savvy features like adaptive cruise control and semi-active suspension, the GS is a smooth operator on both tarmac and gravel.
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
For those who like their motorcycles to have a rebellious streak, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a no-nonsense choice. Powered by a roaring 1,301cc V-twin engine, this bike is not afraid of adventure, even if that adventure means climbing rocky trails or crossing desert dunes. And, with an upright riding position, high ground clearance, and adjustable suspension, this beast will have you riding like a cowboy… in the 21st century.
Yamaha Tenere 700
If you’re the type to venture off the beaten path and into the dirt, the Yamaha Tenere 700 is your loyal steed. The bike’s lightweight chassis (weighing approximately 452 lbs. wet) and long-travel suspension (43mm inverted fork with 8.3 inches of travel and a rear shock with 7.9 inches) make it highly capable off-road. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels ensure excellent handling on uneven terrain, while its 34.6-inch seat height suits taller riders.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT
Suzuki’s V-Strom series has long been a go-to for adventure riders, and the 1050 XT continues that tradition with a perfect blend of power, comfort, and versatility. Comfort features include an adjustable windscreen, wide seat, and ergonomic riding position, making it ideal for long journeys. Also, its 5-inch TFT display provides vital data, while cruise control, hill hold assist, and low RPM assist enhance convenience. In short, the V-Strom 1050 XT balances adventure capability with everyday practicality.
Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s engine’s unique 1-3-2 firing order enhances its character, delivering better low-end grunt and a distinctive sound. The tubeless spoked wheels (21-inch front, 17-inch rear) are ideal for off-road use, while heated grips, a seat, and Bluetooth connectivity ensure rider comfort on long trips.
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250
Harley-Davidson isn’t known for its adventure bikes, but the Pan America 1250 is here to change that. With a 1,250cc Revolution Max engine and a modern tech suite with a full-color TFT display, this bike takes the Harley experience into new territory. And, with a dry weight of 534 lbs., the Pan America 1250 is relatively light for its class, providing nimbleness on and off-road.
Honda CB500X
For those who don’t need all the power and grandeur of a full-fledged adventure bike but still want to ride across the continent without breaking the bank (or their back), the Honda CB500X is a fantastic option. Introduced in 2013, it features a 471cc parallel-twin engine producing around 47 horsepower, making it A2-license friendly in Europe. The bike is well-regarded for its reliability, fuel efficiency (approximately 70 mpg), and user-friendly nature, ideal for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE
The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE offers one of the smoothest rides in the adventure touring segment. This bike stands out for its advanced Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension (KECS), which adjusts damping on the fly for improved comfort and stability. Additionally, it features a full-color TFT display, cornering ABS and Kawasaki’s Intelligent ABS (KIBS) for enhanced safety. Plus, it remains agile at 255 kg (562 lbs.) thanks to its upright riding position and lightweight aluminum frame, making it a top choice in the sport-touring category.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is the underdog of the cross-country motorcycle world, but it’s no slouch. The long-travel telescopic front forks (200 mm) and a mono-shock rear suspension (180 mm travel) enhance its off-road capabilities. Also, the Himalayan is powered by a 411cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, producing 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm of torque, providing balanced power for both on-road cruising and off-road trails. On top of all this, its low seat height makes it perfect for shorter riders who still want to experience the thrill of long-distance touring.
BMW F850 GS
The BMW F850 GS is the smaller sibling to the 1250 GS, but don’t let its more compact size fool you. The bike’s aerodynamic design includes a robust steel bridge frame and telescopic front forks, enhancing stability and control. Its 20-liter fuel tank is ergonomically placed for improved weight distribution. The F850 GS also has long-travel suspension (204mm front, 219mm rear) and spoked wheels (21-inch front, 17-inch rear), making it ideal for off-road exploration and highway cruising.
Suzuki V-Strom 650
For many, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 is the quintessential middleweight adventure bike. The bike features a 649cc liquid-cooled, V-twin engine, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, offering about 70 horsepower and a comfortable mid-range torque. In terms of design, it has an upright riding position, a 21-liter fuel tank, and an adjustable windscreen, emphasizing rider comfort during long rides. And, if you want a bike that can handle city streets and dirt tracks equally well, this one’s a no-brainer.
Honda CRF300L Rally
The Honda CRF300L Rally is a smaller, more lightweight option for riders who want to ride far but don’t need a full-sized adventure bike. The design features a tall, rally-inspired windscreen, enhancing rider protection against wind and debris. Its aggressive front cowl and asymmetrical dual LED headlights provide a distinctive look while improving night visibility. And, while it’s not exactly the bike for 1,000-mile highway rides, it’s an absolute champ for getting you through remote areas and backcountry adventures.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT
For the rider who appreciates a bit of Italian flair with their adventure, the Moto Guzzi V85 TT offers a unique package. Its frame is a steel tube design, offering durability and stability on various terrains. The front suspension uses fully adjustable 41mm forks, while the rear features a single shock absorber. It also has a large fuel tank, wide handlebars, and a comfortable saddle, which is ideal for long-distance touring.
Ducati Multistrada V4
The Ducati Multistrada V4 is an Italian engineering masterpiece designed to conquer highways and rugged trails. Ducati’s design ethos here is as ambitious as its name; “Multistrada” translates to “many roads,” and they weren’t kidding. From the bodywork to the tech and performance tweaks, Ducati crafted this beast with a singular focus: to dominate any terrain it touches while looking like it’s just come off a fashion runway in Milan.
Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114
Not all cross-country bikes need to be tech-heavy. With its stripped-down, bobber-style design, it’s the very definition of “cool without trying.” Its Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine packs a punch with 114 cubic inches (1,868 cc of pure torque) and a rumbling 119 lb.-ft. And don’t forget that it also has that “get out of my way” look, thanks to the high ape-hanger handlebars and minimalistic styling that’s all blacked-out engine and finishes.
Indian Motorcycle FTR 1200
The Indian Motorcycle FTR 1200 is effortlessly stylish and unapologetically rebellious. Launched as a street-legal homage to India’s flat-track racing legacy, this beast is powered by a punchy 1203cc V-twin engine that cranks out around 120 horsepower. With its compact steel trellis frame, 43mm inverted front forks, and Brembo brakes, the FTR 1200 isn’t just about looks; it’s built to carve corners like a Thanksgiving turkey.
Benelli TRK 502 X
For the budget-conscious adventurer, the Benelli TRK 502 X is an affordable alternative to higher-end adventure bikes without compromising style or performance. It also boasts spoked wheels and a 19-inch front, which scream “I’m adventurous!” even if it mostly sticks to tamer landscapes. Think of it as a reliable road buddy with a slightly wild side—enough to keep life exciting but not too unpredictable!
CFMOTO 800MT
The CFMOTO 800MT is CFMOTO’s bold entry into the adventure bike world, packing a punch with a KTM-derived 799cc parallel-twin engine (yes, it’s like they’ve adopted a sibling of the KTM 790!). It features a sturdy steel frame, spoked wheels, and a healthy 19-liter fuel tank, meaning fewer gas-station hugs and more on-the-road glory. Tech perks like cruise control, a TFT display, and ABS keep the rider spoiled, while some models even throw in heated grips and a quick-shifter. Plus, with aggressive pricing and solid specs, this adventure bike proves you don’t need to mortgage the house to roam the world.
Kawasaki KLR 650
The Kawasaki KLR 650 is a stalwart in the world of dual-sport motorcycles. The KLR 650’s 6.1-gallon fuel tank allows you to roam far and wide, though you might find the seat a bit of a plank. Who needs comfort when you have reliability? The bike got a significant revamp in 2022, adding fuel injection and ABS to meet modern standards, though purists might miss the simpler days of carburetors.
BSA Gold Star 650
Yes, BSA’s back brings retro style and solid performance into the modern era. Initially launched in the 1930s, the Gold Star built its name through wins on racetracks and hill climbs. Fast-forward to today and this 650cc single-cylinder beast has been re-engineered, fusing vintage flair with modern tech (think fuel injection and liquid cooling). And it packs 45 horsepower, enough grunt for a respectable 100 mph top speed—perfect for reliving rock ‘n’ roll days without rattling too many teeth.
Aprilia Tuareg 660
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is like that adventurous friend who’s always begging you to hit the trails—even if you’re more of a coffee shop-on-a-Sunday type. Built for off-road adventures, it sports a 659cc parallel-twin engine, delivering 80 horsepower and 51 lb.-ft of torque, which makes it lively yet manageable for rough terrains. Further, this midweight beast also combines the heart of Aprilia’s RS 660 with a new, taller stance, rally-style fairing, and long-travel suspension for handling unpredictable trails.
Moto Morini X-Cape 650
For the rider who wants a bit of Italian flair in their adventure bike, the Moto Morini X-Cape 650 is an exciting option. This Italian-made adventure bike boasts a 649cc parallel-twin engine, producing a respectable 60 hp. It’s not a fire-breather, but it’s perfect for long rides on twisty backroads or mild off-road trails. And, with a 19-inch front wheel and long-travel suspension, it handles well on rough terrain.
Honda Gold Wing
Finally, for those who want ultimate comfort with their adventure, the Honda Gold Wing has been the granddaddy of long-distance touring motorcycles for decades. Originally a sleek, bare-bones machine, the Gold Wing quickly evolved into the ultimate road sofa, complete with creature comforts galore: we’re talking Bluetooth, heated grips, and even an airbag on some models.
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
