Buyer’s Guide to Touring Motorcycles

Would you like to tour cross-country on your new motorcycle? Then you’ll need to purchase a quality touring model for your upcoming trip! To learn what makes a good touring motorcycle stand out from the pack, you’ll want to check out our helpful shopping tips below.

A Large Gas Tank

For long-distance trips, extra fuel capacity is essential. Overheating becomes even more of an issue when the engine isn't optimized for longer runs at higher speeds when traveling with a passenger or gear.

Extra Storage

You'll need a good place to store your stuff. Side cases and hard bags will provide plenty of space for gear and allow you to attach more luggage to the bike. They're usually weatherproof and lockable, which helps keep your belongings safe.

Analog Speedometer

We recommend purchasing a touring motorcycle with an analog speedometer and tachometer to provide a more accurate reading of your speed and road conditions than digital readouts do. They're also easier to see in bright sunlight, which is helpful when you're traveling fast on the highway or winding along mountain roads.

A wide-ratio transmission

You'll spend a lot of time in high gear when you're cruising at highway speeds on a touring motorcycle, so look for a model with a high top speed and enough torque to handle steep grades uphill. Be sure your model has a quality braking system to help you quickly slow down from high speeds.

Maintenance

Touring motorcycles are designed to keep going as long as you do, but maintenance is still an important part of motorcycle ownership. Ensure your model has a reliable engine and transmission, coatings that protect it from rust, coatings that help it survive the elements, and a high-capacity oil pump.

Do you want a touring motorcycle prepared for any adventure? At Desperado Harley-Davidson®, we can help you find the right one. Visit us in McAllen, Texas serving Edinburg, Texas, for a test ride of the latest models and all your service needs.