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Home » Budget Travel » Motorbike Touring 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Travelling by Motorcycle (2024)

Motorbike Touring 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Travelling by Motorcycle (2024)

Travelling by motorbike is like uncasing yourself and releasing true freedom. Does that sound a bit poetic? Ok, but motorcycle touring really does allow you to travel at your own pace through both cities and totally offbeat locations.

Not to mention the act of riding is far and away more rewarding than catching any old bus! Camping at the foothills of majestic mountains and slow mornings in a foreign country are both favourites of longtime motorcycle travellers.

But with great freedom comes great responsibility! Travelling by motorcycle can be difficult to organise and even downright dangerous. I mean, you are careening around blind corners with nothing but a leather jacket between you and the tarmac.

The times I’ve got to enjoy a motorcycle trip have stood out as highlights of my travels. So I put together the basics for the nervous first time motorbike traveller ! And, dare I say, even the veteran pros might be reminded of some good points while reading. 😉

Because hitting the open road astride your badass bike should be a bucket list item for EVERY traveller. This beginner’s guide to motorcycle touring is for you, to go zipping off down Route 66.

After all, the road is always the best teacher.

Why Travel by Motorbike?

How to plan a motorcycle adventure, we need to talk about safety, packing to travel by motorbike, destination inspiration – top 3 places to travel by motorbike, final thoughts on travelling by motorcycle .

“ On a motorcycle … you’re completely in contact with it all. You’re in the scene, not just watching it anymore, and the sense of presence is overwhelming .” – Robert Pirsig

This quote sums up what draws a lot of us to travel by motorcycle. The thrill of having the “windows” removed and leaning into every curve of the road is utterly exhilarating.

There’s never the feeling that you’re commuting or simply getting from A to B. You’re busy asking locals for directions and taking side roads into the remote hinterlands of various countries. 

Because you often travel to offbeat areas , even the most popular countries can be seen in a new light when you travel by motorbike. Any time you want, you can simply pull over and take an epic photo. At your leisure, you can stop off and have a chat with some locals or explore your surroundings.

Not to mention that, when motorcycle touring, you’re free to design your own itinerary and slow down your travels . These days, there’s rightfully a bit of hype around living minimally and living freely. Travelling by motorbike encourages you to be both minimal in your stuff and maximal with your experience.

On top of alllllll that, the beer just tastes better after a long day riding . 😉 When you kick your bike into gear and take it to the road, you can be sure that you’re going to return home with bountiful stories to tell.

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When it comes to adventure travel, there are usually two types of people: the ones who over-plan and the ones who under-plan. So I present to you: the dreaded compromise . Before you saddle up and roar off into the peachy sunset, I think you should have a rough plan.

This is not a meticulously kept itinerary that has you in 3 places at once and all your accommodation booked out months in advance. But it’s also not just a napkin with a smudged name of a town that someone told you would be cool to visit.

Still, it’s not rocket science – it’s simply travelling by motorcycle! So with a couple of epic rides under my belt now, I present to you the main considerations to factor into your plan to travel by motorbike.

Number One Tip: Buy a Good Bike

For as many motorcycle travellers as there are as many different opinions on the best bike! But one thing we can all agree on is that spending a little extra money on a bike that’s in better condition will save you money in the long run. 

You’ll spend less time sitting on the stool outside the mechanic and more time taking in the scenic and curving roads if your bike is in good condition! And especially if you’re going to be on the road for an extended period of time, it’s gonna really help you out if you know how to fix your own bike. 

Take it from someone who learned to take being covered in engine snot over phoning a mechanic every time something went wrong – it’s worth it! Not only do you save money, but if your motorbike adventure goes the way you plan it to, you might not be close to a mechanic!

If you’re in the wops of the Laos jungle or the rolling plains of Kyrgyzstan there’s not always going to be someone who knows how to fix your bike! Plus, it’s so satisfying and such a confidence boost to know that you can make a beast of a bike run with just a little tinkering. 

When considering your bike, I’d also consider whether you want to rent or buy . On shorter trips in countries far away, it makes more sense to rent a bike. If you go through a reputable company, the bikes should be well taken care of and you won’t need to spend too much time in the mechanic! However, for longer trips or if you already have a badass touring bike, then service your big beautiful beast and hit the road.

Make A Budget

The secret to motorbike travelling is to treat it like you’re long term backpacking – at least in terms of your budget. That means all the budget backpacking hacks stay in play and you can travel off the beaten path longer. 

Once you have a budget in place, you can more thoroughly enjoy the place that you’re travelling to -without the stress of running out of money. 

I mean, who doesn’t want to ride the Old Silk Road and channel the empires of years gone past? You’re going to have one of those adventures that sounds almost mythical when you retell it years later. With a proper grasp on the budget of your adventure, you can really lean into the wilderness and slight insanity that always makes a motorcycle trip worth it.

As with any kind of budgeting, putting a price on the trip is like asking how long is a piece of string…

Still, if you have a timeline and a maximum amount that you can spend you’re halfway there. I recommend putting aside 5% – 10% for emergencies and dividing what’s left amongst the number of days you expect to be on the road. When that number turns out to be a little lower than you think is possible, it’s time to go back to budget backpacking basics!

What’s the Deal With Accommodation? 

If you’re on the cheap end of a shoestring budget, our old friend camping plays a big part. Get a good motorcycle tent and boom! The world opens up to you. 

Of course, if you’ve got a little extra cash to throw around then staying in a hostel and hotels along the way is going to be more comfortable. But I’d argue that part of the experience of a motorbike adventure is the gritty camping style sleeping arrangements. The stars are just a little more clear and the morning coffee just hits different when you’re camping. 

When you set up your camp for the night you can leave room for a washing line and hang your clothes out to dry (weather permitting). And you will likely be cooking your own food instead of eating out. Sure, you might have a cheeky can of beer to celebrate the end of a long day of riding, but you won’t be heading out to the club and spending money.

Camping encourages you to slip back in time to when we played cards in the evening and chit-chatted the night away. It’s about more than saving money: it’s about gaining experience. 

But, I won’t lie. The motorbike travelling life can be tough. Sometimes – especially on long trips – the spirits can get a little down . And you know what picks up the spirits like nothing else? A hot shower and an actual bed. 

It’s worth factoring in a little “splurge” money into your budget so that you can book an Airbnb or stay in a hotel every so often. It’ll do a world of wonders for your morale when riding all day!

Let’s Talk Food

Eat local and cook for yourself. 

That is how I would sum up eating on a budget! And trust me, it’s not so bad. If you decide to do a motorbike trip through Vietnam , you’re in luck when it comes to cheap and delicious foods! Roadside stalls abound and they’re all chock full of delectable soup, spiced fruit, and beef cooked in more ways than I have fingers to count.

Even motorbiking through New Zealand as I did, I didn’t totally stick to cooking for myself. I indulged in the pit stop style food: hot chips slathered in vinegar . And I do mean lathered – the completely unbiased fact of the matter is that chips taste better when they’re so soaked in vinegar that they become soggy.

Ok, it’s not the healthiest thing to eat on the road, but I’ll tell you what, after 8 hours of driving, those hot chips tasted bloody divine . 

Typically though, if you’re travelling through an expensive country like New Zealand you’re going to want to cook for yourself. This isn’t soo bad though! If you get yourself a nice camping stove then your imagination is the limit when it comes to cooking for yourself. I’ve had particularly memorable one-pot meals – although maybe I was just so tired after the day’s riding that anything tasted good?

What About Those Extra Expenses? 

Factor in those extra expenses from the get-go! You never know when a tricky to source repair piece is going to hit you with a big price tag. 

Also, knowing whether your trip is going to be a round trip or whether you’ll need to ship your bike home is also important. Shipping a bike is not cheap. But when you compare it to the thousands of extra kilometres and cost of being on the road, it can suddenly become more palatable.

And then there’s YOUR health. What if you eat some dodgy curry and become best friends with a toilet for a few days? What if the worst happens and you come flying off your bike and end up all bruised up? It’s not nice to think of these kinds of things, but it’s definitely worth having contingency plans!

That’s why I recommend having 5% – 10% of your budget set aside for emergencies. Think of it as your wee crash landing pad; your financial leather riding jacket. 

Annnnnd, Have Insurance

It’s important we talk about insurance – and not just because it should have your back if your back ends up splattered on the road. A lot of major travel insurance companies DO NOT cover motorbike travelling. 

You’ve got to pull out your magnifying glass and read the fine print to find out that they only cover “incidental” motorbike rides.

Look, I’m not gonna get on my soapbox. It’s up to you whether or not you get insurance. But as someone who’s had to crawl into the nearest hospital in Guatemala and get hooked up to the good stuff, lemme tell you: it’s nice to not think about money when you’re sick!

And one travel insurer that does cover motorcycle travel that I’d recommend is SafetyWing . They essentially act as international health insurance and function a little like a subscription service. You pay for the months that you want to be covered. It’s super flexible, the customer service is top-notch, and they follow through when you need them most.

Month to month payments, no lock-in contracts, and no itineraries required: that’s the exact kind of insurance digital nomads and long-term traveller types need. Cover yo’ pretty little self while you live the DREAM!

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to work! Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Well, amigos, it goes without saying that you are intentionally zipping around corners at 100 kph with nothing except a sexy leather jacket between you and the road. You’re also probably hoping to go offbeat travelling into countries where bribery is not so much as frowned on, but given the sly head nod of almost approval.

And then you add in the fact that you’re still travelling and that often involves a drink (or seven). I don’t need to pull my hair out and lecture you about staying safe. You are more than likely going to be perfectly ok and stay safe and healthy during your adventure!

But I’d be remiss if I didn’t give you these top safety tips for travelling by motorbike:

• Know the local road rules. 
• Don’t drink, snort ketamine, or otherwise drive inebriated.
• Keep your valuables locked away.
• Know your bike.
• Know your limits.
• BONUS! When the cops start asking for bribes, you stop speaking English…

Oooooh boy. Systems on systems!

A motorbike often comes with two paneers and a rack close to the seat. This is not a whole lot of storage so you need to travel light ! And yet there are definitely a few crucial bits of ingredients that you can’t go travelling without.

If you’re in the jungle you need mosquito spray . If you’re in the cold tundra, you need bulky layers .

And wherever you are, if you’re on a badass motorbike adventure, you need a badass packing list.

Osprey Aether 70L Backpack

Ya can’t go backpacking anywhere without a blasted backpack! Words cannot describe what a friend the Osprey Aether has been to The Broke Backpacker on the road. It’s had a long and illustrious career; Ospreys don’t go down easily.

Feathered Friends Swift 20 YF

My philosophy is that with an EPIC sleeping bag, you can sleep anywhere. A tent is a nice bonus, but a real sleek sleeping bag means you can roll out anywhere in a and stay warm in a pinch. And the Feathered Friends Swift bag is about as premium as it gets.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every traveller should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. When you’re camping, hiking, or even if the power just went out, a top-quality headlamp is a MUST. The Petzl Actik Core is an awesome piece of kit because it’s USB chargeable—batteries begone!

First Aid Kit

Never go off the beaten track (or even on it) without your first aid kit! Cuts, bruises, scrapes, third-degree sunburn: a first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

This world is full of some pretty epic destination inspiration . There are so many roads to travel and so many more crumbling mountain paths that you can share with goats. But for me, there are 3 places in the world that have the best motorbike riding .

Feel free to have your own favourite motorcycle routes, but I think you’ll find it hard to argue that these 3 places aren’t bloody spectacular!

#1 The Big, Bold, and Beautiful US of A

Ah yes, the iconoclastic home of the bald eagle, Route 66, and 50 states desperately singing the star-spangled banner in an attempt to glue themselves together and call themselves a nation. America, fuck yeah. 

The United States of America is a lot of things; ‘boring’ is not one of them. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, they committed to becoming a land connected via highways. Today there are 4 million miles of public roads . Damn!

And all these roads have to go somewhere. The USA has an incredibly varied landscape to match its incredibly varied patchwork of cultures. Motorbike travel across the USA is a wild ride (pun intended) through southern fried chicken, crumbling monuments, the Rockie Mountains, and Walmart. 

The sense of spiritual vastness and of resilient lands is inescapable when you ride through the prairies. And yet the cultural bankruptcy is rather inescapable when you see homeless Walmart employees in every other major town. The roads and landscapes themselves make for amazing motorbike travelling, but the USA makes for a wild journey in and of itself.

This was the first country I ever went travelling by motorcycle in – and oh boy, did I save the best for right off the bat! Vietnam simply cries out to be explored by motorbike. It’s a long, thin strip of mountains that taper off into epic coastlines.

The cities are bursting at the seams full of highrises and steaming noodles. Motorbikes are THE choice of transport here and you’ll be one of a sea full of them as you navigate your way through the cities. But as you cajole around mountainous back roads, the cities fall away and the other Vietnam is revealed.

You and your noble steed of a motorbike will have to wait for buffalo to cross the road before you travel on through rice paddies, hill tribes, and mind-melting sunsets. This is all without even mentioning the fact that Vietnam is one long culinary excursion.

Vietnamese food is a perfect balance of salty and sweet; yin and yang. The food is often simply by necessity – for many years Vietnam has been beaten down by poverty and war . But the food is always rich and delectable in flavour. There is so much more to Vietnamese food than pho noodle soup… 

You’ll notice a change from noodles to rice; from flavoursome to spicy; from dry ingredients and fish sauce to “green”, fresher ingredients as you move from North to South. 

I got so caught up in the excellence of the foods I didn’t even wax poetic about the excellence of the roads! A motorbike trip in Vietnam is really like no other – just know that if it’s your first time exploring the country by motorbike, then you’ll be hooked for life!

#3 New Zealand

Aotearoa, New Zealand. This beautiful, thin slice of sub-tropical island paradise also makes for sublime motorbike travelling. 

When I was living on the South Island of New Zealand , my neighbour owned a badass Royal Enfield bike. The stars aligned that we could take a trip together and that sold New Zealand to me: it’s simply one of the best places in the world to travel by motorcycle . The mountains are glorious and sky grazing; the cows are exceptionally curious.

The roads are fairly well maintained and the feeling of leaning into each and every curve reminds you about why you started riding in the first place. Not to mention, the Kiwis are resourceful and friendly. So if any troubles do come up with the bike, a helping hand is never far away. 

New Zealand has an edge over its vast neighbour across the Tasman Sea (Australia) in that the distances between places is not prohibitive. You can drive for a few hours each day and end up in completely new landscapes and towns. In the morning it might be subtropical palm fronds and by afternoon it’s snow-capped peaks. 

This makes New Zealand doable on a time budget, too.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

While it might be a little intimidating to the first-timer, travelling by motorcycle is freaking addictive! Once you have a taste of the glorious mountain road adventures, the sneaky food stops along the way, and the satisfaction of a beer at the end of a day of riding, you’ll be hooked for life.

Throw in a tent and a thirst to go further and you’ll be looking to quit your job and travel the world . Freedom camping and unrivalled adventure is something that is hard to top. As long as you layer up with a leather jacket and a wee bit of insurance you’ll know that you won’t be flying off your bike and stopping your travels before they began!

After everything these past few years have thrown at us, a motorbike ride would probably do us all some good. 

Remember, motorbike travelling ultimately gives us more time on the road. And the road is eternal, the wind is constant, and what else comes with a guarantee like that?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The Best Adventure Motorcycles for 2023: Ride Everywhere

Looking to buy a motorcycle for on- and off-road riding, or long-distance travel? Fortunately, there are many choices. Our list showcases 18 of the best adventure motorcycles on the U.S. market for 2023.

The adventure or “ADV” segment of the motorcycle industry is thriving, and the selection just keeps growing. Regardless of your preferences, skill level, or budget, you will likely find something to scratch your itch for adventure riding within the ever-expanding ADV bike lineup.

To be considered an “adventure” motorcycle we’re talking street legal, off-road capable, and comfortable to ride for long distances.

Adventure bikes inherently strive to offer equally good performance, handling, and comfort both on- and off-road. This is a complicated balance to strike, and there tend to be concessions one way or another. Choosing the best adventure motorcycle really means figuring out what qualities are most important to you.

This is not an exhaustive list of all bikes that meet those general criteria or could be made to meet them with after-market upgrades. Instead, we chose these tried-and-true adventure motorcycles that come from the factory ready for long-distance riding. 

18 Best Adventure Motorcycles for 2023

Here’s our list of the Best Adventure Motorcycles for 2023, in order of displacement — from smallest to largest.

Suzuki V-Strom 650, XT & XT Adventure

Aprilia tuareg 660 adventure, yamaha ténéré 700, bmw f 750 gs, suzuki v-strom 800de & de adventure, bmw f 850 gs & gs adventure, moto guzzi v85tt & v85tt adventure, ktm 890 adventure & adventure r, triumph tiger 900 gt & rally, husqvarna norden 901, ducati desertx, suzuki v-strom 1050, de & de adventure, honda crf1100l africa twin, ducati multistrada v4 rally, yamaha super ténéré 1200 es, triumph tiger 1200 gt & rally, bmw r 1250 gs & gs adventure, ktm 1290 super adventure s & r.

• Base price $9,104-10,799
• Engine 645cc V-twin
• Power 70 hp
• Wet weight 476 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.3 gal.
• Tire size 19”/17”

The V-Strom line offers new or budget-conscience adventure riders an affordable way to explore the world on a legendary V-twin. Well known for being reliable, versatile, and inexpensive, the 650 platform is a great way to join the fast-growing sport of adventure motorcycle riding.

Differences in the models are small but important. The standard V-Strom 650 (shown) comes with 10-spoke cast wheels with tubeless tires, while the XT model has spoke-style wheels with tubeless tires, hand guards, and a protective lower engine cowl.

The 650XT Adventure comes with everything the XT does in addition to a rugged accessory bar and 37L quick-release aluminum panniers. Depending on your riding style, goals, and budget, the 650 may be all the bike you’ll need.

If you can afford a bit more, budget adventure riders can now get a more purpose-built bike for their money with the new 800DE model.

• Base price $12,299-12,699
• Engine 659cc parallel twin
• Power 79 hp
• Wet weight 450 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4.7 gal.
• Tire size 21”/18”

Aprilia, having just joined the adventure motorcycle scene last year, no changes have been announced for the Tuareg 660 for 2023. Aprilia has done a good job offering a compelling new ADV bike at a reasonable price.

At only 450 pounds wet, the Tuareg is nicely placed at the smaller end of the mid-weight options. The suspension has a whopping 9.4 inches of travel in both the front and rear, giving it one of the highest ranges of suspension travel in its class.

Fuel is carried low, having a big impact on how the bike handles and making it relatively easy to pick up for a bike this size. There are tons of unique, well-thought-out features to discover if you take the time to research this bike thoroughly.

For the many folks struggling to find a Ténéré 700 or who are thinking about paying over MSRP to get one, the Tuareg deserves consideration. 

• Base price $10,499
• Engine 689cc parallel twin
• Power 74 hp
• Wet weight 452 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4.2 gal.

The Ténéré 700, or “T7,” has enjoyed a huge following since conception. Unfortunately, Yamaha has not been able to keep up with demand. If you can manage to find one, it is indeed a special bike worthy of the accolades it has received.

Yamaha has succeeded in offering the ADV community something that no other manufacturer has to date: a rock-solid engine in a capable ADV bike at an incredibly low price. How did they do that? Well, compared to the competition, the  Ténéré 700  has almost zero extras.

For some, this is a compromise; for others, a preference. If you need ride modes, traction control, and cruise control to enjoy your ride, this is not your bike.

If you like the simplicity of a basic setup that will help you become a better rider by the sheer absence of rider aids, start looking now. It might take you a while to find one, and you will likely have to pay above MSRP to get it. If you want more bang for your buck, look at the Tuareg 660 . 

• Base price $9,995
• Engine 853cc parallel twin
• Power 77 hp
• Wet weight 493 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4 gal.

The F 750 is better suited for pavement than the F 850, coming with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast aluminum wheels. All GS models come equipped with innovative features and state-of-the-art technology, proving a plush ride regardless of which size you choose.

Additionally, BMW has a whole host of optional upgrades to make sure your bike meets all of your needs. If you go with the F 750 GS over the bigger, more off-road capable 850 models, you will potentially save a fair amount of money and a little bit of weight but also get a little less power, have a shorter range, and have less wind protection.

If you are looking at BMW because you want a GS and you’d like to be able to take your bike down any road you come across, check out the F 850 GS for better ground clearance, bigger, spoked wheels, and better suspension. 

• Base price $11,349-12,999
• Engine 776cc parallel twin
• Power 84.3 hp
• Wet weight 507 lbs.
• Tire size 21”/17"

Brand new for 2023, Suzuki has stepped up to the plate offering adventure riders a more dirt-oriented bike with the addition of the 800DE model (shown) to the V-Strom lineup.

The 800DE fits nicely into the V-Strom family between the popular 650 and 1050 options. This is particularly exciting due to the fact that the   larger, mid-weight lineup of ADV bikes is notably lacking affordable options, and the V-Stroms are known for providing great value for the money.  

The Adventure model on the 800 platform comes equipped with quick-release black-anodized 37L aluminum panniers, plus a rugged accessory bar and aluminum skid plate for true off-road touring capability.

While the base weight is unfortunately on the heavy side at 507 pounds (we don’t know what the Adventure model add-ons weigh), Suzuki’s reputation for reliability coupled with a fair price point will suit many.

• Base price $12,595-13,595
• Power 90 hp
• Wet weight 504 lbs., 538 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4 gal., 6.1 gal.
• Tire size 21”/17”

The standard F 850 GS (shown) is a trimmed-down version of the F 850 GS Adventure with a smaller fuel tank, fairing, and shorter suspension . The Adventure model, or “GSA” as it is often referred to, comes with quite a bit more and, as a result, weighs significantly more.

At 538 pounds, the GSA is a heavy adventure motorcycle for the mid-weight category but also the most long-distance-touring-friendly for this displacement. With its large gas tank, windshield, and bulky fairing, the F 850 GSA offers good range, weather protection, and comfort.

Don’t be misled by the base prices, as you will quickly realize many of the BMW features you want are optional, and they add up fast. Depending on what kind of adventure riding you want to do, if you are a BMW fan, you might find that for the weight and the price of the 850, you can get more bike for your money with the GS 1250 .

A good reason to stick with a BMW? They have a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty — one of the best in the business.

• Base price $12,190-13,190
• Engine 853cc V-twin
• Power 76 hp
• Fuel capacity 6 gal.

The Moto Guzzi V85TT has a transverse V-twin engine and is shaft driven — a unique combination. The standard model V85TT (shown) comes with quite a few comfort, performance, and tech features that you might not expect on an old-fashioned-looking bike.

The Adventure model has even more. If you crave classic, retro styling and a ton of character, and you’re more interested in road travel than aggressive off-road capability, take a peek at the details of this Moto Guzzi. You’ll be surprised by what you get for your adventure motorcycle money. Spoiler alert: there’s gorgeous luggage involved.

• Base price $13,949-15,199
• Engine 889cc parallel twin
• Power 105 hp, 103 hp
• Wet weight 473 lbs., 464 lbs.

Updated for 2023, the KTM 890 Adventure base model (shown) has received some nice upgrades that make it even more appealing at this price point. You might quickly find yourself spending more, though, as KTM has cleverly introduced a new demo mode, allowing you to test out all the optional electronic rider aids for the first 932 miles.

Upon startup, after you’ve passed that mark, the aids will vanish, and you may decide you need to purchase just one or two upgrades, or perhaps you’ll feel compelled to spring for the full tech pack. Regardless of your decision there, the reworked adjustable suspension, improved seat comfort, electronics, and better wind protection will serve you well.

The key difference between the Adventure R model and every other bike in the midweight ADV category is the suspension. Lightweight, responsive, and powerful, this bike is just as capable, comfortable, and fun on the twisties as it is on single track.

More dirt-oriented than the base model, this bike is for you if you want the highest-performing, easiest-to-pick-up adventure motorcycle money can buy.

• Base price $14,995-17,395
• Engine 888cc triple
• Power 94 hp
• Wet weight 501 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.28 gal.
• Tire size 19"/17", 21”/17”

Released in 2020 to replace the well-loved Tiger 800, Triumph has done an amazing job producing a high-quality, capable, and comfortable range of bikes to meet all your adventure motorcycle needs.

If you prefer more road riding, the 900 GT (shown) and 900 GT Pro will take care of you on everything from urban adventures to proper long-distance travel. It comes with a 19-inch front and 17-inch cast wheel.

The GT Low model saves nearly 2 inches in seat height by slightly reducing the suspension travel. As this is the more street-oriented model, the tiny loss in ground clearance shouldn’t pose an issue.

If you want an adventure bike built for maximum off-road, all-day riding capability, control, and comfort, the Tiger 900 Rally and Rally Pro have you covered. The latter comes with a tubeless, spoked 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel. 

Triumph also offers a 3-year, unlimited-mile warranty. Imagine how many miles you could lay down on one of these in three years!

• Base price $14,499
• Power 105 hp
• Wet weight 472 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5 gal.

First released in 2022, the Norden 901 is based on the well-loved KTM 890 Adventure platform. The key difference is the Norden is set up to be more comfortable on the road for traveling long distances than the 890, with a wider, plusher seat and softer suspension.

This bike stands out from the competition because of its relatively low MSRP and power-to-weight ratio — an impressive 105 horsepower and 472 pounds. Despite looking chunky, the fuel and engine weight are down low, making it feel surprisingly light and responsive.

Don’t let KTM’s reputation for being high maintenance scare you off; the oil change interval on this bike is a whopping 9,300 miles.

A welcome addition to the popular mid-weight adventure bike category, the Norden 901 handles very well on- or off-road and is comfortable, powerful, and fun to ride.

• Base price $17,695-18,295
• Engine 937cc V-twin
• Power 110 hp
• Wet weight 495 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.5 gal.

Introduced in 2022, the DesertX is an exciting addition to the mid-weight ADV motorcycle lineup. This is the first modern Ducati with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tire, long-stroke suspension, and a frame designed specifically for off-road adventuring.

Ducati did their homework, successfully offering an impressive package that stands out from the crowd. Head-turning styling and overall build quality; amazing suspension, brakes, and electronics package; and, of course, the most powerful engine in its class.

This is Ducati we’re talking about, after all. If you don’t want to make any concessions in performance or comfort going between on- and off-road riding, the DesertX is one of the most capable and highest-quality adventure motorcycles currently available.

• Base price $15,199-17,599
• Engine 1,137cc V-twin
• Power 107 hp
• Wet weight 554 lbs.

Suzuki has been inspired by the competition, introducing a whole host of revisions to the 1050 V-Strom and making it a better performing, more comfortable, and more versatile platform.

The new   DE model replaces the XT model from prior years, with the intention of offering a more off-road capable model to the lineup. How does the DE differ from the base model? The standard 1050 (shown) comes with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless 10-spoke cast wheels.

The DE has a spoked 21-inch tubed front wheel and 17-inch tubeless rear, offering better ground clearance and taller suspension for off-road performance, among other features.

The Adventure model is equipped with all the updates of the DE, with the addition of travel accessories such as aluminum panniers and LED fog lights.

• Base price TBA
• Engine 1,084cc parallel twin
• Power 101 hp
• Wet weight 505 lbs., 529 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5 gal., 6.5 gal.
• Tire size 21”/18"

As of writing, the official 2023 models, options, and corresponding pricing for the Africa Twin lineup have yet to be confirmed for the US market. But no best adventure bikes list is complete without the Africa Twin.

Shown is the 2022 Adventure Sports ES model. With a lot of new adventure bikes popping up in the mid-weight category, Honda’s popular CRF1100L platform has some stiff competition.

It may not be the lightest, fastest, or highest-performing adventure motorcycle on the market, but Honda has given us a solid, good-performing, ultra-reliable, quality-made ADV bike that has been popular around the world for decades.

Most importantly, it handles the road just as well as the dirt and offers great value for the money. How do you argue with all that?

• Base price $29,995-30,595
• Engine 1,158cc V4
• Power 170 hp
• Wet weight 573 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 7.9 gal.

Making its world debut in 2023, the V4 Rally is an updated Multistrada on steroids. It has way too many bells and whistles to list (we have a whole article on that  here ), but you can trust that all your power, comfort, safety, and connectivity needs will be exceeded.

Solo or two-up, this bike will confidently adjust to accommodate any conditions you might throw at it. Leading the pack in radar technology, the V4 is the first motorcycle in production to have both front and rear radar for adaptive cruise control and blind spot warnings.

Boasting more horsepower than any other ADV bike on the market, fuel consumption is something to investigate, especially if you are looking for the longest range possible.

The main reason this may not be the bike for you? Sit down before you read the price range.

• Base price $16,299
• Engine 1,199cc parallel twin
• Wet weight 584 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 6.1 gal.

The Super Ténéré is Yamaha’s biggest adventure motorcycle and has been around for years. It has a large following and is known for being trustworthy and capable.

Unlike its little brother, the Ténéré 700 , which notoriously carries its weight high, the engine mass is kept low on the 1200 for great handling. It does come with more features than the 700, but fewer than its competitors in the heavyweight category.

Fewer electronics mean less to fail, making it a reliable and durable choice for long-distance travel. The Super Ténéré does have basic frills, like cruise and traction control, and adjustable suspension.

This bike has been and will continue to be a solid choice for adventure riding.

• Base price $19,595-24,200
• Engine 1,160cc triple
• Power 147 hp
• Wet weight 529 lbs., 575 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.3 gal., 7.9 gal.
• Tire size 19”/18”, 21”/18”

Triumph’s 1200 lineup got a complete makeover for 2022. A new engine, chassis, suspension, brakes — the whole works. The biggest complaint about the old 1200s was the weight. That has gone down, so good job Triumph for listening.

More road-focused with a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel, the GT series includes the base model GT (shown), GT Pro, and GT Explorer. The Rally Pro and Rally Explorer models are more dirt-oriented, with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheel, more ground clearance, and longer travel suspension.

The Rally models are the same bikes, except the Explorer comes with a larger tank size (5.3 gallons versus 7.9 gallons), blind-spot detection, fuel tank protection bars, standard heated seats, and taller handlebar risers.

Fast, agile, and comfortable, there is a Tiger for everyone in this broad lineup.

• Base price $17,995-20,345
• Engine 1,254cc flat twin
• Power 136 hp
• Wet weight 549 lbs., 591 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.2 gal., 7.9 gal.

The big BMW GS bikes are what come to mind for many when we think of adventure motorcycles. The GS Adventure — or “GSA” — is a beefed-up version of the base GS (shown), having bigger fuel capacity, more wind protection, spoked wheels, and higher clearance for off-road riding.

These behemoths may be heavy, but they are easier to pick up than you may expect, thanks to the big cylinder heads and crash bars that hold them partly upright.

If you are tempted to save money or weight by going with the base model, you might want to take a look at all the add-ons you’d likely want, calculate how the weight would be impacted, and compare it to what comes included in the price of the GSA.

There’s a reason BMW has a loyal brand following in the adventure bike ecosystem; they’ve set the bar high.

• Base price $20,299
• Engine 1,301cc V-twin
• Power 160 hp
• Wet weight 550 lbs.

Seeing extensive revisions in 2021, the KTM 1290 platform has only minor updates for 2023.

The Adventure S model (shown) is the more long-distance, road-oriented sibling of the aggressively off-road capable Adventure R model. The 1290 models cover ground quickly and effortlessly and have the ergonomics to make sure your adventures are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

KTMs are highly customizable and known for being incredibly lightweight, fun, and powerful. Because of that, they’re one of the best adventure motorcycles on- and off-road.

2023 Adventure Motorcycles — No Perfect Bike

Full disclosure, I ride a Suzuki DR650SE, and I call it my adventure motorcycle. We have indeed been on many wonderful adventures together, but it’s really a dual-sport. Yes, it is street-legal and off-road capable, but it is not very comfortable. It becomes exponentially less so on long-distance rides , even with upgrades.

Adventurers the world over will share similar stories of epic times on all types and sizes of bikes , including single-cylinder or “thumper” bikes like mine. The point is that while you can certainly have adventures riding whatever bike you fancy (or can afford), an ideal adventure motorcycle will take you everywhere you might want to go, and you’ll be a lot more comfortable.

Adventure Motorcycle FAQs

Good ground clearance, suspension travel, and large spoked wheels all help make navigating different types of terrain and obstacles easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Vibration, jarring, and wind buffeting are three big factors that are exhausting on long rides. Twin-cylinder engines or above will vibrate much less than single-cylinder bikes. Plush suspension will absorb changes in terrain, and a frame-mounted fairing will provide ultimate protection from the wind.

The lightest weight bike in this comparison is the new Aprilia Tuareg 660 , coming in just under 450 pounds (449.7, to be exact). The only other bike that comes close is the Yamaha Ténéré 700 , at 452 pounds. The heaviest is the venerable BMW R 1250 GSA , at 591 pounds. Leave it to German engineering to figure out how to perfectly balance that much weight on two wheels.

No surprises here. The priciest is Ducati, and the economy is a Suzuki. The new Multistrada V4 Rally can be yours in Ducati Red for just under $31,000. For that price, you can buy matching Suzuki V-Stroms for yourself and two of your friends. The base model V-Strom 650 comes in at $9,104 and has been successfully carrying adventure riders all over the world for nearly 20 years. 

Suzuki has gone after the adventure market with their new V-Strom “DE” models . They are still pretty far behind the competition in side-by-side comparisons, but the pricing is so good it might not matter. At the other end of the spectrum in quality, price, and cutting-edge technology, the Tiger 1200 line has been completely revamped for 2023.

If you want to do lots of road riding, the very popular BMW GSAs , Triumph Tigers , and of course, the Ducati Multistrada will offer the most comfort on the longest rides. Heavier, large-displacement bikes tend to ride better on the road.

Riding off-road can mean a lot of different things. Generally speaking, the lighter-weight ADV bikes tend to be easier to handle (and pick up!) riding off-road. Look at the KTM 890 R (really any KTM), Tuareg 660 , and Ténéré 700 if you live for dirt.

This is where the mid-weight adventure bikes win. The Ducati DesertX is creating quite a stir. I dare you not to want this bike. Also touted as equally well-appointed for both are the Tiger 900 , the new kid Norden 901 , and the Africa Twin .

How to Get Into Adventure Riding Without Breaking the Bank

Our intro to adventure riding guide will get you rolling on two wheels on the road less traveled without breaking the bank. Read more…

Motorcycle Suspension: A Beginner's Guide for Adventure Touring

Setting up motorcycle suspension properly is one of the most important aspects of motorcycle safety and fun-factor. Yet most riders don't do it. Read more…

6 Ways to Easily Turn an Adventure Motorcycle Around Off Road

Adventure motorcycle pros teach us six ways to turn a big bike around on narrow trails. It's not brute force, but technique and practice. Read more…

Misty Pine has been pushing her love of motorcycles on anyone who will listen for the past decade. Prior to that, it was horses. Currently based in Portland, Oregon, she is a rare native Oregonian and despite having lived and traveled all over the world, she has yet to find a place as magical as the Pacific Northwest. In addition to riding, Pine enjoys mushroom identification, searching for hot springs, sharing good food, traveling to remote riding destinations in her rad Moto Van, and endlessly photographing all of the above.

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30 Essential Motorcycle Touring Road Trip Tips

Posted On: Oct 17, 2018

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You arrive to a new destination, the motorcycle is waiting for you with a welcome card that has your name on it, and you’re barely containing the excitement before the adventure begins. Some of us enjoy the trip planning process as much as the ride itself.

Thinking through the details, making the perfect route, and packing for the trip are all essential. There is no doubt that every trip needs a personal touch, so there will be a variety of opinions and advice you’ll get as you tell more people about the trip you want to do.

Years of experience and thousands of happy customers can tell you that when it comes to motorcycle travel, EagleRider is the top choice. We put together a list of our top 30 tips for motorcycle touring and riding a motorcycle across the country. We hope this list helps you plan you ride, whether you do it with EagleRider or on your own. This list of touring tips will get you started on some key things you need to arrange for your upcoming adventure.

TRAVEL TIPS

1. set the date – commit to the trip.

Someday can be today. Thousands of riders dream of getting on a bike and doing a trip, whether it’s 3 days or 30. But mostly the dream ends there. Family commitments, work, finances, and so many other things get in the way that dreaming is what most riders surrender to. It doesn’t have to be this way. Plan ahead and set the date. Commitment is the first step.

Having flexible dates won’t help you secure travel, visas, motorcycle rental, or anything else. It won’t help you get a buy-in from your family to do the trip. Firm travel time is necessary because you’ll be able to plan everything else around it.

2. Ride your own bike/rent/tour – how to know which one

There are three main options for riding anywhere:

• Do it on your own bike
• Rent/borrow one
• Do a self-drive or a guided tour

Which one works for you ultimately is a personal preference. GUIDED TOURS are more expensive, but also take care of most of the logistics and travel arrangements. You trust that you’re with an experienced guide who knows the local areas and you are also looking forward to exploring the new land with like-minded motorcycle riders.

Renting a motorcycle is becoming easier as we and other motorcycle rental companies offer a variety of makes and model at numerous riding destinations. Rental gives you the freedom to keep a pretty open daily riding schedule and riding your own bike is the cheapest option.

You can absolutely ship your bike across the ocean if you live overseas, but it’s not going to pencil out financially in most cases.

Creating your own custom route can take a lot of time and is also a fun experience. You get to learn about new places, get insights from other riders, and pick the pace of travel that works for you. At EagleRider, we have a team of tour architects that can assist with route planning for your rental or custom tour.

3. Best time to ride – early summer, early fall

We get asked every day about the best time to ride a certain route, such as ROUTE 66 and our WILD WEST tours. Your trip can be anywhere in the world and most likely you will face a variety of weather and riding conditions. But for riding in America, there are definitely several windows of perfect weather: early summer and early fall.

In winter you can enjoy Florida and the Southwest, or even do a tour down to Cabo San Lucas in Mexico . Our guide to winter riding offers all the best routes and trip suggestions. Summer offers a must consistent level of temperatures and in the desert areas, you’re very likely to face extreme heat. Not everyone is ready for that, so some riders opt-in to ride in months that are a bit cooler.

There is no single answer to this, especially if your trip is 3-6 months long across multiple continents. But for most 2-week trips, early summer and early fall offer a really nice mix of temperatures. If you want to save a buck, Shawn offers some great tips for this in his Q&A Q&A about navigating EagleRider products . 

4. Motorcycle with ample storage that fits your riding experience and preference

How to pick a motorcycle is one of those questions that we can spend hours contemplating. It’s very difficult to recommend something because we all have different riding preferences and levels of experience. Some bikes are great for touring but can be too heavy especially with a passenger and full touring packs with clothes.

The best suggestion you can get is to look at motorcycles that fit your riding experience and have enough storage for the trip you are planning. We put together a detailed guide on choosing the right bike for your trips, which will be a great reference point for your upcoming adventures. On a guided tour our van carries all the luggage, but on a camping trip, you’ll need to carry everything in your saddlebags and attached to a sissy bar.

In general, most riders prefer bigger touring bikes for 7+ day trips, but you should only ride a bike that you are comfortable handling. For off-road riding, there is a completely different set of features you’ll be considering compared to perfectly maintained roads and highways of the USA.

You can always contact us and explain what trip you want to do and your preferences for a motorcycle and our team of seasoned riders will assist with recommending a few models that we think will work well for you.

5. Route 66 is not the only way to cross the country

There are thousands of ways you can cross America, from Route 66 to Pacific Coast Highway

We offer 100+ pre-defined routes, all of which can be further adjusted based on your wishes. Some of our most popular routes besides the best selling Route 66 full tour , include:

• Triple B – Blues, Bourbon, BBQ (New Orleans to Washington DC)
• Coast 2 Coast Motorcycle Tour (Los Angeles to Orlando)
• Western  Coast - P acific Coast Highway (Seattle to Los Angeles)

Many of our riders extend their trips to Sturgis and begin riding on either coast to then spend a week in South Dakota and after continue riding across the country. If the time allows, adding a few days at one of the iconic motorcycle rallies is a great way to spice up your trip and celebrate the life on two wheels with fellow riders.

6. Share your ride with others - take photos and videos along the way

Did you know that the most watched motorcycle videos on YouTube often are of the long cross country and cross-continent rides?

Following someone’s adventure through the lens of the camera or smartphone is better than not seeing it at all. Let your family and friends enjoy the road with you, share your ride on social media and your site if you have one.

There is a variety of apps and websites that allow for route sharing and you can also post images and videos along your favorite stops and moments on the road. The main thing is to share what you see with others. During or after the trip - your choice, but capturing moments on the road will make for a nice souvenir many years later.

Don't forget to tag #eaglerider when you share your photos and videos on social media. Every month we pick a random lucky winner and award $300 gift card towards future reservations on eaglerider.com.

CLOTHING/GEAR TIPS

7. pack small.

We can be very different in how much packing we want to do for a trip. Some of us carry suitcases with three sets of clothes for every day. Some of us pack the side case bags that fit inside Electra Glides that what’s all the clothing for 2-3 weeks.

Mostly everyone always recommends packing small. Everything you may want on the road can be purchased with cash or credit card. In many cases, too many things to carry become a burden. Even if you’re packing for a month-long camping trip, you need to pack down to the minimum essentials to have room for everything. See our packing checklist and guide for more info.

Generally, bring twice as much cash and half the clothes you think you’ll need. Riding cross-country will take you through dramatic shifts in elevation and temperature. Mountain passes can have freezing temps and snow, even in summer. If you come from an area where there are no significant changes in elevation, it’s hard to wrap your head around entire climate zones existing at certain elevations. It’s simple—be prepared for everything.

8. In desert areas, keep long sleeves on

It’s a common misconception that you can ride through a desert in just short sleeves. We always recommend keeping long sleeves on, for a few important reasons:

• You don’t want to have your body having direct contact with the sun
• If you do, you get dehydrated quickly and can compromise your ability to control and balance the motorcycle safely
• Common symptoms after that (aside from sunburn) can include nausea, dizziness, muscle weakness and cramping, and many others leading up to a heat stroke
• Protect your body from the sun, don’t open yourself up to harmful UV rays

It’s something we see very often, especially in our Southwestern locations. The riders drop off the bike with the happy sunburned faces tell us all about their adventures. Even though the effects of the extensive sun exposure seem to disappear fast enough, it’s the long-term effects that you should also consider.

9. Weatherproof bags and rain gear will save you in most unexpected situations

If you have a support vehicle following you (e.g on our guided tours), you can skip this one. But if not, chances are you’ll be carrying some kind of a bag on a sissy bar. The best way to protect your packed gear is to have weatherproof bags. Weather changes, sometimes within hours. When you get to your overnight stay, the worst thing is to have not only yourself soaking wet, but also all your fresh clothing for the trip as well. It may seem like an exaggeration right now, but one piece of advice we always have for riders is to pack a quality set of rain gear and think through the carry options ahead of time.

10. Wear Coolmax or other moisture wicking materials instead of cotton shirts

There are mixed opinions about whether cotton is a proper way to dress is in the extreme heat conditions. Mostly coming from hikers and adventure travel enthusiasts, there is a popular belief (with scientific reasoning) that cotton traps the heat close to your body while moisture-wicking materials don’t stop the heat from releasing helping you to keep the body temperatures at an optimum level.

Polyester holds on to only about 0.4% of moisture while cotton holds around 7%. That’s a big difference. Newer technologies, what’s commonly called base layers, force the moisture out of the garments through the special weaves of the fabric. Your body stays dry and maintains its temperature balance while your clothes protect from the elements and release the heat and sweat.

A variety of brands make motorcycle-specific base layers, you can shop for these options online ahead of your ride.

11. Layering is the best way to dress/pack

The secret to packing and surviving any weather is layering. Not only this is the easiest way to adjust in rapid temperature changes, but also to save space when packing. For most motorcycle trips, you really need a few sets of warmer sweatshirts and base layers. One jacket, especially with multiple air flow zippers and vents will be sufficient for most rides.

12. Don’t bring expensive glasses

Eye protection is essential for any motorcycle ride. Shatterproof glasses or a helmet with a built-in sun visor are the two best ways to stay protected and ride comfortably in all hours of the day. Expensive glasses will be a shame to lose or scratch. They’re also not the safest option as rider’s head/helmet is often the first area of impact in accidents.

13. Rolled up clothes take less space

We all probably have this one friend who’s always packing with compression cubes, individual pouches for shoes, and everything in very neatly rolled tubes. Most of us are not line this. But… it’s been proven over and over that rolled up clothing takes less space and has very few wrinkles when unpacked. From military duffle bags to modern hikers and motorcycle riders, everyone finds this way of packing to be very efficient. Give it a try.

14. Small camera or phone are better that a DSLR

Everyone is a photographer these days. The trap that most people fall into is buying big bulky camera (“best on the market”) and then struggling to take photos with it during moto adventures. In general, mirrorless cameras are much more compact and offer amazing image quality for half-the-size.

The best camera for motorcycle touring, just as it is for any other activity, is the one that you have quickly available. That can be your phone or a small camera on a sling hanging across your body as you ride your motorcycle through the mountain twisty roads or the vast deserts.

If you’re opting to shoot on your phone, make sure you have ample storage available in your phone. It will be very unfortunate to run out of space just as you approach the edge of Grand Canyon for the sunset after a full day of riding.

TO BUY/PACK/PLAN BEFORE THE TRIP

15. ride planner – tour guide, gps, printed map, mobile app.

The purest adventure possible is to take off with no plans and no definite direction in mind. Most people, however, can’t manage that degree of spontaneity. For everyone else, you’ll want to pick a destination or two and get an idea of the things you want to see and do.

Planning the route and having your notes handy as you ride each day is one of the best things you can do ahead and during the trip. Some riders prefer to carry printed maps, which have been the main go-to way of navigation for many years before digital devices started to take over.

When it comes to points of interest, historical sites, local attractions, gas, food, lodging, events and activities along the way and even road conditions, closures, and construction, research is your friend. Not very long ago, calls to your motor club and each state’s tourism bureaus were a must for any chance at practical planning. Published city and state guides and sometimes travel agencies could also be helpful, especially if you wanted to do a lot of sightseeing.

Mobile apps that allow you to plan and navigate the route, such as Rever or Harley-Davidson Ride Planner, are a great tool to have. Apps that let you import GPX files are another solution. Having rest stops, gas stations, overnight stays, and points of interest in your map files will save you a lot of time and mental energy, especially during the longer touring trips.

Having a personal tour guide , someone who knows the route and the locals, can take your trip to a whole another level. Our EagleRider guided tours, we have bi-lingual guides who have years of experience guiding our tour guests through all corners of the country. Often it is the guide who can make your trip absolutely unforgettable. We get this feedback from tour guests every season.

Whichever ride planning tool you pick, leave some room for spontaneous decisions. Buffer enough time to enjoy the local scenery, add stops, and deal with emergencies. Most of us ride motorcycles to break free from the daily routine and this can easily be the only time where we don’t have to be boxed in. Explore, plan, but don’t feel the pressure to stick to the route 100% of the way.

16. Find overnight stay with walking distance to good food and drinks

Meandering across the country, riding mostly blue highways and stopping at mom and pop motels/hotels and eateries will provide a more intimate look at America. Once you’re done riding for the day, a cold beer and a good steak will be on top of your mind. Find hotels with walking distance to local bars and restaurants. Your motorcycle will be safely parked for the night and you can relax and enjoy the evening.

17. Location sharing apps / I.C.E. / share the route with at least a few people

Safety on the road is essential. You want to make sure both you and your motorcycle are road ready. On top of that, your loved ones should have a way of locating you throughout your trip, even if just for safety reasons. For solo cross-country trips a location sharing app is an absolute must-have. Share the route with at least a few people.

Code your I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency) number into your phone book. Both Android and Apple have this option in the settings as well. Emergency staff can access this information quickly and communicate with your family about any situations that require their immediate assistance.

18. Have a kit with a few small essentials

Pack a small pouch with a few items that always come handy. Some of these take up much space but can be very needed during the ride, for you or for other riders in your group.

• Bungee cords – so you can securely strap additional items or bags to your motorcycle
• Duct tape – can have a variety of uses and there are travel size duck tapes that take very little space
• Kickstand puck – when parking on the uneven or hot surfaces, this little accessory can save you from finding your motorcycle laying on its side
• Multitool/knife – a well-built multitool that always travels with you is handy for most days on the road
• Flash light – handy for dusk hours and when you need to inspect your motorcycle
• USB power pack / charger – available in a variety of power capacities, USB juice packs or portable chargers are helpful if your motorcycle doesn’t have a power plug. Motorcycles that are equipped with a power outlet, a USB charger is all you’ll need for most rides
• First Aid kit – always carry a small first aid kit. On our guided tours, we always have these in the support van

For more information on packing, take a look at our packing checklist .

19. Communication systems and group riding signals

With so many options on the market for communication devices inside helmets, it’s extremely easy to stay connected with your passenger, a friend on another bike, or simply enjoy the music as you ride through the country. We recommend bringing your own helmets with mounted Bluetooth headsets for your trips if you wish to stay connected through your ride.

If you don’t have much experience riding in large groups of 15+ motorcycles, always do a quick refresh on hand signals for group riding. Your visibility on the road is one of the most fundamental aspects of safe riding.

20. Make sure your bike is road ready

If you’re planning to ride your own bike , always make sure the mechanical condition of your ride is optimal and all essential scheduled service items are taken care of. Consider how long your ride is and plan ahead.

Follow the usual safety inspections—tire tread and pressure, lights, signals, brakes, horn. For a cross-country ride of some 3,000 miles, give or take, it’s a good idea to start with fresh oil. Change the fluids and filters. If your bike is anywhere near due for a tune-up or valve adjustment, get it done before you need it done. There is plenty of challenges that may come up on the road; worrying about your bike’s performance should not be one of them.

If your tire tread looks a little iffy, or the tread wear looks uneven, err on the side of sanity and get new rubber. It hurts to plunk down $200-$300 or more per end for fresh rubber, but not as much if you get a flat in the middle of nowhere, or worse. The bike will handle better with new tires and you’ll feel more confident in your ride. Some shops have sales on tires and/or labor and, of course, there is plenty online or warehouse outlets, but check with your shop first; some won’t install customer supplied parts, including tires.

Join an auto club. If you don’t have motorcycle roadside assistance that provides towing and other services there are a few to choose from, including Harley-Davidson, Geico, AAA, and Allstate Motor Club. The peace of mind is well worth the annual fee. Some roadside assistance program, if given some notice, will plan a route based on your preferences, including roadside stops.

If you’re planning to travel on an EagleRider bike , our technicians make sure each bike is road ready. Scheduled maintenance and inspections before and after each ride is complete are essential for us to ensure you have a great time on the road. We offer several levels of insurance coverage and 24/7 roadside assistance. All of the extras you can add to the reservation before you complete the checkout process.

21. Buy a motorcycle seat cushion

For any trips that’s longer than 5-7 days, some riders find it very useful to buy a seat cushion. Putting 250-300 miles daily on any motorcycle is not the same as riding to a local coffee shop for a breakfast meetup with your friends. Sure, you need to be in good health and physical shape to prepare yourself for longer motorcycle tours and rides. A seat cushion can be a welcome addition if you’re not used to multi-day touring adventures.

22. Plan your music playlists ahead of time,bring earplugs if no music

Good tunes for the road will not only set the mood for your ride, but also provide the variety or entertainment for those longer stretches of the road that may not be as exciting and fun as mountain curves. Build several playlists and download them to your device so you don’t burn through your mobile data usage limits.

DURING THE RIDE:

23. daily check of the motorcycle to be road ready.

For most riders this goes without saying – having a well maintained and inspected motorcycle can prevent many situations that can be avoided by this simple 5-minute route process. Make sure you’re road ready and your motorcycle is too.

24. Drink enough water

Whether it’s a day ride or a cross-country motorcycle trip, how you feel physically and mentally impacts every aspect of the trip. The freedom of being out on the road on a motorcycle is beyond compare. The incredible scenery is all around you, not just in that little rectangle of your windshield. You smell the smells and feel the warmth or the coolness of the countryside you’re passing through. It’s very easy to get distracted and forget to drink enough fluids to stay hydrated.

Dehydration affects reaction time, balance, and can lead to heat strokes and other serious injuries. Drinking lots of coffee during the day and alcohol at night can affect how well you’re hydrated. Stop often, carry water, wear moisture-absorbing clothing (see tip #10), and keep yourself in check.

25. Keep your passenger happy, check in with other riders

You’ve come this far! Your partner agreed to do this trip you’ve been planning for months. You pack your bags, arrive to pick up your motorcycle, and the ride is about to start. You may think that the hard part is done but keeping your passenger happy throughout the duration of the ride is a sure way to guarantee a good time on the road.

You’re the one who will be having fun riding the motorcycle while your passenger won’t have much to do. Most riders choose the bikes with the primary concern being the comfort of the passenger. See our guide to choosing the right motorcycle for your trip for more details.

Thorough pre-trip discussions of where you want to go, how fast you want to get there and how much time you want to spend on stops are important if you want a pleasant ride where everyone feels included.

26. Keep your days under 300 miles, avoid riding in the dark

We’re often get asked how far should a motorcyclist ride in one day. The answer varies greatly by the rider’s skill, experience, and endurance, road conditions if they are appropriately dressed, and of course, their bike. Machines with full fairings or windshields can make more miles because the rider is not getting as fatigued fighting the wind.

Then there is that ever-present intangible: desire. How many miles do you want to ride per day? There is no right answer. In fact, the whole spirit of motorcycling is to get away from rules.

Know your limits and don’t be a tough guy. If you haven’t done any long-haul rides before, don’t plan on pushing 500 or more miles per day. Give yourself adequate time to complete your trip without attempting dangerous days of extreme miles. It’s no fun and can be costly.

Every rider finds his or her level—whether that’s 150 miles per day or 400—after which point riding becomes work. Like fuel, leave a little energy in reserve when planning your day’s ride. There may be times you’ll need to push out a few more miles to get to the next bed.

On our guided tours, we keep most days between 200 and 260 miles. With plenty of rest breaks, this allows everyone to get enough rest at the end of the day and start early the following morning.

Think about avoiding night riding, when less visibility and fatigue are more of a factor, and because deer have become the most dangerous animal in the world. Wildlife gets more active at dawn and you’d want to have no encounters with large animals on any of your motorcycle trips.

27. Take a 20-minute break for every 1.5 hours of riding, know your limit

Veteran distance riders suggest getting into a rhythm. For example, some stop for rest and refreshment every tank of gas, depending on mpg and fuel capacity. Some studies have shown you will actually get their faster (and safer) with regular break intervals. Eat light, stay hydrated, and it should go without saying don’t drink alcohol. We recommend stopping for a break every 60-90 minutes. Pace yourself on longer multi-day rides. How you feel today will affect how you ride tomorrow. A fatigued rider is not as alert and doesn’t react as fast as a rested rider.

28. Take a day off for every 7 days of riding

On EagleRider’s 16-day guided tours, we always buffer a day for rest. On Route 66 tours, it’s in Santa Fe where you can spend the day bargaining with local jewelry shops, horseback riding, or enjoying the day at the hotel spa. On Wild West tours, we take a break in Las Vegas, which leaves plenty of room for ideas on local things to do, from Cirque du Soleil to Bellagio Fountains, Freemont Street experience, and much more.

Set yourself up for success by buffering a longer rest stop or a day off. Of course, all of us love spending time on the bike, but local attractions can be just as fun to explore.

29. Keep your eye on how much fuel you have left, find a mobile app for this

It’s a big country, with occasional long, empty gaps between anything resembling a town or the sweet oases of gasoline and coffee we have grown to take for granted. Don’t run it dry, obviously, but start looking for gas stations some 20 or 25 miles before you’re running on fumes.

No one wants to see the dreaded signpost up ahead that reads, “No Services Next 100 Miles.” You need to be prepared for stretches like this, which may involve packing non-perishable foods, water, and bungeeing a full gas can to your bike. Better to have it and not need it, then need it and not have it.

Find an app that can track your mileage on each full gas tank and can alert you ahead of time if you’re running low with no gas stations ahead.

30. Don’t lose your keys, always lock your bike

We saved the best for last! The two of the most unpleasant scenarios on the road are lost keys and lost motorcycle. Nobody wants to be in either situation and both are preventable if you follow a few simple guidelines:

• Keep your bike keys/fob on a lanyard, either hanging on your chest or attached to your pocket
• Have a quality disk lock (we provide one with all our bikes)
• Make sure to lock your bike with both steering/fork and disk locks
• Consider adding an alarm system to your bike
• Build good habits by placing bike keys in the same spot each time you ride or stop for overnight stays

Harley-Davidson touring models have key fobs that you don’t need to insert into the ignition. If it’s your first time on a Harley, keep an eye on the fob. There is a fee for lost keys for our motorcycles.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Now that you have all this information in front of you, picking the riding destination or route is the next step. Here are a few helpful resources to get you started:

Map of EagleRider locations – With over 200 rental locations, it’s easier than ever to conveniently ride out of major cities and nearest hubs to amazing motorcycle roads. Get familiar with our locations and that’ll get your mind thinking about places you’ve always wanted to ride to.

EagleRider routes and tour itineraries – we have 100+ itineraries on our website for both guided and self-drive tours. Browse them to find the destinations you want to visit. We share daily stops for each tour. This can be a great starting point from which you can build on your custom trip if you wish. Or simply book a tour and follow the exact route we suggest.

Rally schedule – planning longer trips around rallies (Sturgis, Daytona Bike Week, Laconia, etc.) is a great way extend your rides and add interesting routes. Many riders love riding into Sturgis from all corners of the country. If you have the time, find a rental location where you want to start and build your route to the rally. We offer one-way rentals, so you can easily drop off the bikes in another city and simply fly home.

Local rides for top travel destinations (Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, etc.) -   (Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, etc.) - if all you have is a day or two, we made a list of local rides near our locations.

We hope you found this guide helpful. A lot was covered here and surely you may need to come back and reference some tips and suggestions as you continue to plan your trips.

RoadRUNNER is an independently owned and published motorcycle touring and travel magazine. On our website, you will find exciting travel stories, reviews, news, and other resources for planning your next motorcycle tour. We offer a wide variety of free content, but only our active web subscribers get access to the entire 650+ tour database, complete with maps and GPS route files. Web subscribers also enjoy exclusive web-only stories.

Click Tours in the top menu and start planning your next motorcycle adventure.

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A DREAM ON TWO WHEELS

There’s simply no other way to describe the V85 TT range. The Euro 5-compliant engine with greater torque in low and medium speeds delivers a performance that is more powerful and thrilling than ever. Five riding modes mean even the most accomplished riders will find something to set their pulse racing. On the aesthetics front, there are stunning tubeless wheels and striking new graphics that show off every curve of the bike, to say nothing of the effect they’ll have on passers-by as you swoop round the curves of the road. Admit it, you’re already itching to don your helmet!

You don’t change a winning formula, so of course the engine is the typical Moto Guzzi air-cooled transverse 90° V twin-cylinder engine with OHV distribution and two valves per cylinder. In proud Mandello eagle tradition, there’s no resting on laurels, however, so we have extra torque in low and medium speeds and a revamped electronic engine control system.

The spoked rims now house tubeless tires, reducing the unsprung weight by around 3.3 lbs and taking the riding dynamics up yet another notch.

If three riding modes weren’t enough, the V85 TT now boasts another two, making it easier than ever to manage traction, ABS and pick-up via the Ride-by-Wire handlebar control. Cruise control and a color TFT instrument panel come as standard, while the accessories catalogue is packed full of extras such as Moto Guzzi MIA, the multimedia platform that connects your smartphone and bike to create a fantastic suite of functions.

Recommended retail price (excluding VAT)

V85 TT Adventure

V85 TT Centenario

V85 TT Guardia d'Onore

V85 TT Travel

Vehicle images may reflect European models and specs, which are subject to change for the North American market.

A bike for living, not simply riding

Sleek, practical and sporting the famous Moto Guzzi style, the V85 TT is the perfect companion, whether we’re talking about every day commuting or intrepid adventures. There’s no compromising on comfort and performance, and this is something not to be sneezed at in a market that is becoming increasingly cookie-cutter. The V85 TT has certainly delivered on its ambition to combine iconic design with all the bells and whistles of a modern enduro touring bike, and definitely earns the title of First and Only in Class when it comes to a classic enduro.  

Distance poses no problem

The V85 TT TRAVEL includes all the tech updates of its V85 TT sibling. It comes with all the features that you’ll need on a long trip, such as the Touring windshield, Urban series side panniers with increased capacity and reduced bulk, central stand, adjustable heated handgrips and last, but not least, the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform.

Looks that pack a punch

The color range of the Moto Guzzi V85 TT is more eyecatching than ever with the addition of Verde Altaj, the iconic green of the House of the Eagle. It joins Nero Etna black, Giallo Mojave yellow, Grigio Grigna, and Blu Uyuni to create a palette of bold, no-nonsense tones.

EXCLUSIVE EDITION

V85 TT GUARDIA D'ONORE

1946 units to celebrate 75 years of association between moto guzzi and the reggimento corazzieri, the famous guards of honor of the italian president..

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT Guardia d'Onore features a glossy black livery with white graphics on the front mudguard, fuel tank, side panels and enlarged Touring windshield. It also includes as standard a central kickstand, engine guards and supplementary LED lights.  This unique model is both a fitting tribute to a special and enduring collaboration and the perfect starting point for creating your own legendary partnership.

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V85TT TRAVEL

A BORN ADVENTURER

Designed for exploring and intrepid adventures, the V85 TT Travel comes in Grigio Grigna grey and features a host of improvements to its already impressive equipment offering. A combination of style, comfort and performance that ensures every single trip becomes an unforgettable experience.

V85 TT CENTENARIO

The bike of the century.

To celebrate the Moto Guzzi centenary, the V85 TT gets a very special makeover with an exclusive livery that is destined to capture the heart of any diehard Guzzi fan.

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Welcome to viajarMOTO ! We are Travis and Chantil – a couple who decided pack our lives aboard our two BMW G650GS motorcycles mules and travel the world. Since March 2020 we’ve been full-time traveling throughout Europe and a bit of north Africa. Join us as we share videos , blog posts , and photographs in our journey to explore this “pale blue dot” we call home.

via•jar•mo•to (byah-hahr-mō-tō)

Why viajarMOTO ? The very first country we explored, outside of the United States, was Baja Mexico. In honor of this country, and its language, we decided to use the Spanish verb “viajar” which means to travel . “MOTO” is short for our beloved motorcycles.

Our Sponsors

It’s been an honor to work with UPSHIFT Online and these wonderful motorcycle companies to include Outback Motortek for their crash-bars and bash-plates, Scorpion EXO for their helmets, and Turkana Gear for their simple, yet rugged, soft luggage. These are all companies that have our utmost confidence because we use their products everyday while full-time overlanding.

2011 BMW G650GS For Sale

We’re selling our beloved G650GS that has delivered us through the last 3+ years of touring Europe. It is adventure touring ready and located at MotoCamp Bulgaria in Idilevo, Bulgaria. Check out the full listing: HERE

Video Travel Series

We shoot, edit, and produce a YouTube travel channel of our motorcycle adventures. Each episode is different – sometimes we’re carving through curved mountain roads, sometimes we’re riding through the remote backcountry on dirt and gravel roads, other times we’re discovering a unique hike, or visiting an interesting landmark or city. Whatever it is, we’re sharing the adventure!

We are currently editing and producing SEASON 3 – Where we explore the beautiful country of Croatia over three months in the autumn season.

2024 Motorcycle Overland Calendar

We are excited to share our passion of travel, motorcycle overlanding, and photography with another yearly calendar! This 2024 edition contains photography from our last year of motorcycle travels from the forested trails of Finland to the High Atlas mountains of Morocco, and many other beautiful places between.

Order your 2024 calendar today – Directly from Lulu.com!

The Moment Collectors

We are elated to be involved in the latest book from Sam Manicom titled The Moment Collectors which features twenty stories from motorcycle overlanders from around the world. We share a chapter titled “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” which is about life’s progressions, discovering motorcycles later in life, and a moment of elation on a highway in Ireland. Order it at Sam-Manicom.com .

Thanks to Jim and Elizabeth for their inspiring podcast – Adventure Rider Radio. We’ve had the pleasure of being a guest on their podcast a few times: The World is Too Big , Riding the Balkans – The Adventure Continues , Navigating Travel During the Pandemic and The Moment Collectors .

We’ve also been interviewed by Wes Fleming of Chasing the Horizon , Neil of Bionic Bikers , Allan Karl of World Rider , and Stuart of Spain Speaks .

87,400 miles – 1,362 days – 53 countries

as of 31 Mar 2024

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• Illyria Raid
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How to Motorcycle Travel on the Cheap

Here are our 10 best ways to save money on a motorcycle trip and travel on the cheap. These hard-earned money saving tips and tricks will keep your motorcycle travel costs low and keep you riding further for longer…

How to Motorcycle Travel on the Cheap and 10 Ways to Save Money on the Road

Motorcycle travel doesn’t need to cost the earth and is something anyone can do. And the same goes for whether you’re on a two-week European bike tour or riding your motorcycle RTW. The key is to figure out how to keep your expenses low and minimize unnecessary spending. And after 15 years of motorcycle travelling all over the world, we’ve picked up a few tricks which will help you do just that.

They’re all crammed into this comprehensive and packed money saving motorcycle travel guide. This article lists the 10 ways most of your money will be spent on motorcycle trips and easy tweaks on how to cut the costs for each one. Let’s get to it!

Accommodation 

The biggest continuous expense on a motorcycle trip is accommodation. The cost of hotels, hostels and B&Bs quickly racks up over long-term adventures. Even a relatively cheap £20 a night hotel, every day for two months would set you back £1,120. If you can limit that hotel stay to once a week, after two months you’ve only spent £160 and saved £960!

Unless you’re dripping in money, you will need to camp for the majority of a long-term motorcycle trip. Here’s how to not spend money on camping and also how to save cash when you do need a hotel.  

Motorcycle camping

Camping is the best way to save money on accommodation. There are downsides like carrying more equipment and limited luxuries. But it’s a big part of motorcycle travelling and will save the most money on a day-to-day basis. There are plenty of official campsites throughout the world that are far cheaper than staying in hotels, but the best way to save money is by not spending any at all – and that means wild camping.

Check out our dedicated camping guides section for kit lists, how to camp, the best tents and more. And then move over to the packing guides to see what you need to take. 

READ MORE: 

• Motorcycle Camping Guides
• Motorcycle Packing Guides

Wild camping

Wild camping simply means to camp anywhere. It’s an integral and visceral part of motorcycle travel. It’s also really fun and gets easier the more you do it. What most travellers find tricky about wild camping is finding a spot to pitch your tent. You’ve got two options here:

Out of sight

The best way to wild camp is to find a river on your map/ navigation device in a wooded or secluded area and head for it. Having running water makes all the difference to a camp spot as you can use it to cook, clean and wash. Try and tuck yourself out of the way, out of sight and away from the main road so you don’t attract any unwanted attention. If you need to camp closer to civilisation, then locals are usually fine with wild campers so long as they don’t leave a trace, set-up their site once the coast is clear and are gone early morning. 

But wild camping doesn’t always mean traversing forests until you find an isolated spot. I’ve wild camped in people’s back gardens (ask permission first, obviously), in a greenhouse, next to restaurants, next to a football pitch during a game, in between trucks, car parks and even parks in city centres. I’ve had some incredible nights and made great friends just by knocking on a door and asking if I could sleep on a patch of grass. This can be a great option if you feel you need a bit of added security in the area you’re staying.

Hotels, motels and guesthouses

Camping isn’t for everyone and can become tiresome. Even the hardiest travellers need a solid roof every once in a while. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to save money here too. In general: opt for guest houses over hotels, make use of the apps listed below, try online platforms and search around for the best deal.

Booking.com is the number one way of booking hotels as you travel. It’s easy, has a mobile app and directions transfer to Google Maps or Maps.Me. To save money, find the hotel on Booking.com and then call or email to ask what their direct rate is; it’s usually cheaper than the online version. If you use Booking.com frequently, you will get upgraded to ‘Genius Level 2’ and that gives you discounts on certain hotels as well. But before you book a hotel, try out the apps and options below first.

Ways of finding accommodation

Maps.Me  is our primary navigation device. Maps.Me is excellent because it’s free and works offline. It also lists smaller hotels and accommodation options that aren’t on Booking.com and makes it very easy to find a cheap place to sleep. It lists hotels that users have put on the map and you can read their reviews too. Check out our travel apps guide for more info on Maps.Me and iOverlander.

• Top 5 Travel Apps for Motorcycle Travellers
• The Best Motorcycle Phone Mounts

iOverlander

iOverlander is a fantastic tool and a must for motorcycle travellers. It’s a community-based phone app that’s built using user recommendations and reviews. Users drop pins on the map to a point of interest, leave a review and the exact GPS coordinates for fellow travellers. These pins can be on border crossings, insurance offices, petrol stations, sights, hotels, camp sites, wild camp spots, incredible roads… anything really.

Check the map to see if there are any accommodation recommendations along your route or around your destination. It often lists hidden guest houses which offer a far more personal (and cheaper) experience than the average hotel.

Airbnb.com is another great option for motorcycle travellers and comes in particularly handy when you want to stay in once place for a long time. You’ll often find lovely entire apartments all to yourself for very low rates. It’s can be cheaper than booking into a hotel and it also means you can save money by cooking and preparing your own food (just make sure you opt for a place with a kitchen). One of our absolute favourites was a beautiful, entire AirBnB apartment in the white-washed coastal town of Kars, Turkey. It was £9 a night with a kitchen and the local hotel was £30 a night!

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing.com is an amazing and free online service. It’s one of the best ways out there to find free accommodation and meet amazing, like-minded people. Log-on, set-up an honest profile and then search in the location you’re heading to. Plenty of profiles and users will pop up, click on a profile and read their references, if they sound like someone you’d like to stay with, send them a request and see what they say!

It’s a free service and hosts will not charge you for your stay. But remember, it’s not a hostel, hotel or turn-up and go to your room type thing. Your hosts will expect conversation and a cultural exchange. If you’re up for this, then CS is brilliant way to meet new people and explore new places with a local.

Keep in mind that at first it will be hard to find hosts as you won’t have any references. A way around this is to look for people who have not got a couch on offer, but are available to meet up for coffee instead (another option on CS). Meet people like this and write references for each other – it’ll make it easier to ask for a place to stay once you’ve built up your profile.

Bunk a Biker

Bunk a Biker will quickly become one of your best travel buddies. It’s a free website, simply visit the site, click on the map button and you’ll find an interactive worldwide map filled with pins. This is a global community of motorcyclists who have volunteered to provide accommodation to motorcycle travellers (or are offering to meet up, help with repairs, or show their local sights).

Click a pin in an area you’re travelling through and you’ll see what they’re offering with contact information. Get in touch and see if they’re interested in hosting you for the night. 

It’s a free website and the accommodation people are offering is free too. But, it’s not a way to save money while travelling and shouldn’t be used in that way. Their website says it perfectly: “It’s not designed to be used purely for the sake of saving money but instead to promote the togetherness and support of a motorcycle-enthusiast community.”

We’ve had some incredible experiences with Bunk a Biker and highly recommend trying it out. 

WikiCamps – a fantastic and very popular app for Australia, New Zealand, UK, USA and Canada. Absolutely brilliant for camping, finding drinking water, free sites, paid sites, toilets and showers etc. You do need to pay to use the app, but it’s a one-time fee and exceptionally cheap. We wouldn’t have been able to afford riding through Australia without it.

• Wild camp whenever possible
• Opt for guest houses over hotels
• Don’t be afraid to knock on doors and ask if you can sleep nearby – you’ll be surprised how kind people can be
• Check phone apps like Maps.Me and iOverlander before booking hotels
• Try alternatives like Couchsurfing, Bunk-a-Biker and use camping apps

Banks, ATMs and Money

Banks and cards.

Your bank can quietly drain money from your account as you travel if you’re not careful. Most high street banks have high charges for withdrawals and exchanges abroad and charge you foreign exchange and transaction fees every time you make a purchase.

Imagine how often you’re going to need to withdraw cash, and then slap a fee on that every time. You could easily spend hundreds of pounds on unnecessary bank fees without even knowing it.

You need to research and find either a credit card with a foreign withdrawal and transaction fee waiver or see what deals your current bank can offer you. It’s worth spending the time to do this before you leave on your trip as it will save you a lot of money over time.

The best banks for UK nationals

If you’re from the UK, you could opt for either a Monzo or Revolut card. These are basically mobile app based bank accounts. We’ve been using them for years throughout the world and thoroughly recommend them.

Download the app, create an account, transfer money into it and then use it as you would any other debit card (both in the UK and abroad).

The main benefit for a motorcycle traveller is when it comes to using the card abroad.

Withdrawals –  You can withdraw up to £200 for free from your account per month. Withdraw over that and Monzo will charge 3% and Revolut 2%, which are both still considerably cheaper than the majority of high street banks (these fees only apply abroad, there’s no charge for withdrawing in the UK).

Consider that most high street banks will charge more than 3% for any amount of money withdrawn abroad plus an additional fixed non-sterling transaction fee!

We suggest getting one of each card, then you can withdraw up to £400 without a charge per month.

Transactions –  All transactions are free with no exchange or transaction fees. The app will notify you every time you spend, keeps a record of how much you’re spending, on what and the exact location. This makes it easier to budget as well. It’s also cheaper to pay someone abroad with international bank transfers.

They are extremely useful and secure. If you lose your card just log on to the app and freeze the card. Monzo is Mastercard and Revolut Visa, so they work anywhere in the world.

Exchange rates

Research exchange rates before you cross borders. It’s easy to get caught out when foreign money is being thrown around. Know how much you want for your money and what exact number you’re willing to go down to before you start negotiations. That way you can’t be caught out or put under pressure.

Always carry US dollars and plenty of small denominations. It makes exchanging easier and also helps when crossing borders. For example, when crossing into Kyrgyzstan from Tajikistan, the border guards only accept US dollars and strangely never have any change. Many people get caught out as they only carry large bills. 

Do your research on which banks and ATMs charge and what their fees are. For example, in Japan nearly all ATMs will charge you a fixed fee. But, every 7/11 convenience store (and 7/11 is absolutely huge and everywhere in Japan) has an ATM and they don’t charge a single Yen.  

And the golden rule is to always withdraw and pay for things in the currency of the country you are in. Never let the ATM use its own exchange rate because you will always be charged more. This is a very common problem that can come up when making everyday purchases too. Anytime you use your card in a shop, restaurant or supermarket, the card machine may ask the cashier if you want to pay in your home currency. Say no and opt for local currency.

• Know the exchange rate and how much you’re willing to spend on the exchange before entering negotiations
• Carry small denominations of USD
• Understand your bank’s exchange rates and foreign transaction charges
• Shop around for the best credit/ debit card deal before you leave
• Know where and how to withdraw cash
• Never pay in your home currency

Destinations, Borders, Paperwork and Police

Destinations

When planning your motorcycle trip, remember that some countries require motorcycle travellers to use a Carnet de Passage. If you need this document, then you’re going to be leaving a hefty deposit in your home country and run the risk of losing it should anything happen to your bike.

• What is a Carnet de Passage?
• Motorcycle Travel Paperwork Explained

Additionally, if money is tight, carefully consider where you are travelling to. For example, countries like Japan and Norway are notoriously expensive. Budget your trip before you go and carefully consider where you want to go. If Japan is at the top of your list but you know it’s going to cost a lot, then make concessions for it by spending less in other countries.

People quite often spend small fortunes on going to places just to say they’ve been there. For example, it could easily cost a few thousand to ship your motorcycle from Malaysia to Australia for just a few months of travel there before shipping out again. We know people who have done so, when they’re not even interested in the country and could have travelled in Southeast Asia (which they loved) like kings for another year with that money. Think about where you’re going and if it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

Borders and paperwork

It’s incredibly easy to get caught out when crossing borders and dealing with paperwork and customs as a motorcycle traveller. All borders are different, with unique requirements, their own rules, regulations and strictness. Unfortunately, there are a few greedy border guards out there who may try swindling you for a few extra dollars.

This is usually harmless and they may say something like it’s a 5USD fee for government tax, or inspection fee, or gate fee. Sometimes it’s 100USD for some unknown permit. Be aware because guards will try this in many parts of the world. They may even give you a piece of paper as a ‘receipt’, but unless you know what the requirements are you won’t know if they’re telling the truth. There have been times where I’ve called a guard’s bluff on a fee. When I laughed and said, “nice try”, he smiled and said, “well, it usually works.”

The way to save money here is to know what to expect before you get there by doing your research. Check out our Motorcycle Travel Guides for the countries you’re visiting as there are ‘Paperwork’ sections that explain what the requirements and costs of entry are. If you can’t find info there, then ask in the many excellent Facebook groups for the regions you’re visiting.

Many people worry about bribes. It’s not usually something to worry about as bribes tend to be for small amounts, or can at least be negotiated from their initial inflated starting price. The consensus is not to pay a bribe as it sets a precedent and has a knock-on effect for the next traveller. Our Bribes Guide will help with how to handle those tricky situations.

• How to Deal with Bribes on the Road
• 10 Tips for Motorcycle Security While Travelling
• Consider how expensive the countries you’re visiting are
• What paperwork do you need to enter each country?
• Know what to expect at each border beforehand
• Don’t get caught out with bribes

Food and Water

The easiest way to save money on food is to not to splash out on restaurants and cafes. You can only do this by being prepared. That doesn’t mean you should become a hermit, eating only scraps, cook every night and not enjoy the culinary delights of the country you’re in. Always eat plenty, healthily, often and definitely dine out! But it should be when you’ve planned to. It’s the emergency restaurant visits when hunger sets in and you have nothing in your bag that sets you back.

Pack your own food and make your own lunch. Buy a loaf of bread, hard cheese and smoked or cured meat that doesn’t need to be refrigerated for lunch (or jam and peanut butter sandwiches for vegetarians) for lunches. Carry rice and tuna for emergency evening meals while camping. Or buy some meat before you head to your campsite to cook on a fire. Carrying snacks like nuts and chocolates will also help keep you going. Go for local markets over supermarkets, buy fresh produce and help the locals out instead of spending more in a supermarket.

Having your own food will reduce the urge to continuously visit cafes and restaurants. Set aside a few days a week for eating out instead. And make sure to always try local cafes and street food instead of the more expensive western-themed restaurants.

Your camping food doesn’t always have to be dehydrated, dry and boring. You can go to town and prepare proper delicious meals on your motorcycle trips and adventures. For more info, check out our dedicated guide to good food below:

READ MORE: The Motorcycle Camping Food Guide (Gourmet Edition)

Buying water every day quickly adds up. Instead, try and reuse your plastic bottle and refill water wherever and whenever you can. You will need 2 litres a day of drinking water and at least another 2-3 litres if you’re camping for cooking and cleaning.

Fill up your bottles in cafes, restaurants, at public water fountains, ask in shops and find out from locals where they get their water. For example, in Thailand there’s a government run scheme of water vending machines dotted all over the country. You need your own bottle, put in 1THB (0.02GBP or 0.03USD) and it returns 1 litre. Compare that to the 20THB (0.50GBP or 0.63USD) per litre in a shop. Take five litres a day and that’s £2.40 or $3 a day! Search for these types of options instead.

Purifying your own water is another option if you’re in the middle of nowhere. Boiling water will kill bacteria and toxins in the water. You can also use a purification straw/ stick or a   purification tablets .

Also, don’t get caught out with ‘free bottled water’ in restaurants. It’s custom in hot countries to put a small bottle of water on your table with your food. It looks complimentary because you didn’t order it, but it hardly ever is. Don’t be embarrassed to say no thank you. And don’t feel embarrassed to take your own water bottle to a restaurant or cafe and ask them to fill it up before you leave (a small water bottle of course).

• Be prepared with your own emergency food
• Plan days for dining out
• Cook for yourself whenever possible and carry the ingredients to make your own meals
• Try not to buy bottled water. Instead, fill up your bottles whenever possible.
• Alcohol is one of the biggest pocket burners out there. Try and limit it as much as you can.

Washing and Hygiene on the Road

Hygiene is incredibly important while travelling. You can get all sorts of nasty skin rashes and infections if you don’t look after yourself. And it’s easy to keep skipping shower time if you’re camping in cold conditions or knackered after a hard day’s ride. Of course, nobody is expecting you to shower every night, it’s just not possible through most parts of the world. But you should make sure you keep on top of your personal hygiene. Here’s how to save money while doing so.

There won’t always be rivers or streams to camp by and there’ll be countries where that won’t be possible at all. Travellers often go to a hotel just to freshen up, but you can avoid that expense by carrying around a shower bag . Fill the bag with water, hang it up and turn the nozzle for your very own portable shower. Baby wipes are another easy option.

Your clothes and gear

The laundrette next to your hotel will always be cheaper than your hotel’s washing service. Sure, it’s easier to just hand your dirty pants to the receptionist, but if you want to save money, step outside and ask a local where the closest laundrette is. You’ll be surprised at the price difference.

DIY washing machine

Wash your own clothes if you really want to save money. Here’s the trick… You will need a small pack of washing powder, a running tap and a waterproof compression stuff sack .   Half fill the bag with water, sprinkle some powder in, chuck a few of your clothes in and then roll the top down and clip it up. Hold the bag with one hand at either end and shake the water vigorously from left to right for a minute. Empty the water (repeat the process if the water is very black) and then rinse the clothes with running water. This method works far better than filling a sink and rubbing clothes together. It’s easiest to do this when you’re having a shower!

• Buy a shower bag if you’re in a region with no rivers instead of going to hotels to freshen up.
• Look for a local laundrette over your hotel’s in-house service.
• Wash your own clothes.

Motorcycle Repairs, Spares and Petrol

You don’t need to be a mechanical genius to travel on a motorcycle. In fact, one of the most experienced and well-travelled motorcycle travellers I know doesn’t know how to change a tube, oil or even know where his spark plug is.

However, there’s a lot to be said for learning the basics before you go. It means you can rely on yourself in tricky situations and, in this context, can save money. Spend time before you leave to learn the basics at least. That means changing tubes, tyres, oil, filters, cables and basic servicing. The best way to do that is to buy the Haynes manual and get to work on performing those tasks before you leave.

If you’re not mechanically minded, then you could sign onto a motorcycle maintenance course at a local college. Or pay a local mechanic to teach you. Or, there are plenty of adventure bike schools that run maintenance and basic field repair courses. These classes are great because they’ll improve your confidence, you can work on your own bike or one of theirs and they’ll teach you the basics so you can get yourself out of a tricky situation. Sure, you’ll be spending money on it, but it will save you money in the long run. Check out our best off road training schools in the UK page, as there are a few companies on there who provide this type of training. 

• The Ultimate Adventure Motorcycle Tool Kit
• SBV Adventure Motorcycle Tool Kit Review
• The Best UK Off-Road Training Schools

Find a good spare parts company in your home country and supply them with a copy of your Carnet de Passage. If you need to have something sent out to you, they can send this with it to avoid import taxes as it’ll prove your vehicle is a temporary import. That will save you money. Carry spares with you on the bike as well as they can often be more expensive and harder to find abroad.

Petrol stations on motorways are usually more expensive than in tows. Exit the motorway when you need to fill up and search for a local station instead.

Also, if you’re about to cross a border, calculate how much petrol costs in the next country and stock up in the one you’re in if it’s cheaper. (If you’re heading to countries with poor fuel quality like Uzbekistan , you may be interested in our Mr Funnel Fuel Filter Review ).

• Learn basic mechanics before leaving.
• Carry spares with you and arrange a deal with a company back home.
• Avoid more expensive petrol on motorways.

Motorcycle Shipping 

Chances are that if you’re on a long-distance motorcycle trip, then you’re going to need to ship your bike at some point. This could be if you’re crossing continents on a round-the-world trip or even an A to B trip where you want your bike to be shipped back home instead of riding it back due to time constraints.  

Shipping your motorcycle internationally will put a hefty dent in your bank balance. But there are ways to save money on it.

Firstly, you need to search around for a good agent as prices fluctuate. Next up, consider whether you are going to ship by sea or air freight.

What catches most people out is the port costs at the other end. It may cost you £1,000 to ship from South Korea to Cambodia , but then once you arrive in Cambodia you could face an additional £500 charge for port fees and customs. You should find an agent in your destination country to help you navigate these costs before you book your shipment.

For a full guide on international motorcycle shipping, loads of top advice from an industry expert and more ways to save money, check out our comprehensive shipping guide.

READ MORE: Motorcycle Shipping Guides

And if you’re looking to ship your motorcycle abroad or want to get in touch with some companies but don’t know where to start, then check out our International Motorcycle Shipping Companies Finder. Simply click a country on the interactive map and you’ll find the companies we recommend with their contact details and info.  

READ MORE: Recommended Motorcycle Shipping Companies

• Speak to multiple agents for the best deal
• Consider the port cost at your destination as well
• Weigh up air and sea freight and account for all costs of each

How to Find Cheap Flights

You may be wondering why flights are in a motorcycle travel on the cheap guide. This section will be handy for riders on fly-and-ride motorcycle trips and anyone who catches a flight to a foreign country for a motorcycle tour or rental. Even round-the-world riders usually need to use a plane at some point. 

We have had to fly home for emergencies , weddings and even fly to other countries when we shipped our bike. 

Or, you may want to travel by renting a new motorcycle in each country you travel through, in which case you’ll be taking more flights. Either way, here’s how to save money should you ever need to catch the iron bird.

Be flexible

The main way to save money on flights is to be flexible with both your dates and where you’re going. Here’s some top tips:

• Weekend flights are more expensive than those in the middle of the week.
• Early morning and late-night flights are also cheaper.
• Flights are more expensive closer to school holidays and upcoming worldwide holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
• Flights are cheaper straight after the above holidays.
• Consider what season you’re travelling in as every country has a busy time of year where flights are more expensive. For example, December and January are the two most expensive months of the year to fly to Thailand.
• Additionally, be flexible with where you’re going. Sometimes flying to a different airport and getting a taxi or bus to your final destination can save you hundreds of pounds.

Flight search sites

By far the best websites for checking flight deals are Skyscanner and Google Flights . When using Skyscanner, instead of clicking a specific date, select ‘Whole Month’ for both the departure and return date. This will show you a calendar of the month you’re leaving with a price under each date.

Make sure you delete your cookies and cached data between online searches and look up your flights in Incognito mode.

And finally, always go after air miles and rewards. It could mean considerable discounts or even free flights.

• Recommended Motorcycle Rental and Tour Companies
• The Ultimate Fly and Ride Motorcycle Rental Guide
• The UK Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide

• Weekends are cheaper than weekdays.
• Book a late night or early morning flight.
• Fly after worldwide holidays, not before.
• Consider the season you’re travelling in.
• Use ‘Whole Month’ search on Skyscanner.
• Delete your cache and search in Incognito mode.

Work as You Travel

We have met plenty of people who are lucky enough to supplement their travels by working as they go. Most of the time these people are able to work online and remotely. This could be anything from webpage building to graphic design to Skype based English teaching. If you’re in this category then that’s fantastic! Look into transferring your skill into freelance work and do it while you travel.

That’s not the only way though, we have met people who left without the intention of working. They started putting a few YouTube videos up for their friends and family and got really into it. After a while the visitors and subscribers racked up and now they’re able to fund their trip from their YouTube channel!

If online work isn’t for you, then you can always learn a new skill or apply one you already have. Having a specific skill set while travelling sets you apart and can help you help others. This skill can be anything from building to teaching English. The teaching route is an easy one to go down; sign onto a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) crash course and earn some money as you travel by doing private tuition or stopping off in countries and teaching at schools for a few months.

Don’t fancy that? There’s always bar work, catering, deck hands, working in a hostel or just applying for whatever work is in your area. Make sure you have a valid working visa before applying though.

Here’s a dedicated guide for making money while travelling if you’d like more info.

READ MORE: How to Make Money While Motorcycle Travelling

Volunteering

Finally, there are options like workaway.info. This is another excellent service, but this one is an exchange. You’ll need to work a few hours per day in exchange for food and accommodation. It can be a great way to explore new places without spending a penny. Workaway is worldwide and every place has different working hours and conditions. Take a look, pick one you fancy and give it a go!

If you’re interested in this, we recommend having a read of this excellent article in the Thoughts from the Road section of our website. 

READ MORE: Volunteering on a Motorcycle Trip

How to Budget for a Motorcycle Trip

Budgeting sounds boring… and it is. But you’ll be surprised at how much you can save if you budget well. To budget while on the road, you will need to record every expenditure every day. You will quickly see what you’re spending habits are like, will notice any unnecessary expenses and will be able to effectively set-up and control your overall budget.

Here’s how to set-up a rough budget for a motorcycle trip

First, figure out how much you have to spend on your trip and how long you’ll be travelling for. Let’s say it’s £5,000 and 6 months. Set aside an additional amount for unforeseen circumstances like £500 for emergency repairs and don’t include this in your budget.

Second, list and add up your big expenditures like Carnets, visas, flights etc. In this example you will need to ship your bike home at the end and it will cost £700. You’re left with £4,300.

Third, work out how much fuel you’ll be using roughly on this trip. If it’s a 10,000-mile trip, your bike averages 60mpg and it’s roughly 0.80p per litre then that’s £500 on petrol. You’re now on £3,800.

Finally, divide your remaining amount by the amount of travel days and you’re left with roughly £21 per day to spend on accommodation, food, water and miscellaneous. 

Now, this might not sound like a lot but it is. And there will be days where you will have much more than £21 to spend. Here’s how…

Let’s say for the first six days you wild camped and only spent £10 per day on food. That leaves you with a surplus of £66 after 6 days. Add that money to a ‘surplus pot’ and use it to splurge whenever you like.   

The point is, you will figure out and learn new ways to save money while you travel. Over time you will build up a surplus of unspent money which you can then distribute to other things like going on a scuba diving course or a three-course slap-up meal.

You can only go over your £21 daily budget so long as you use your surplus pot. If you use up your surplus pot then revert to the £21 a day budget.

Budgeting like this will mean that you will never spend more than you originally planned for, you won’t go over budget, you’ll learn loads of new ways to save money and will appreciate the little things far more. This will help you travel further and for longer. Good luck!

How Much Does it Cost to Motorcycle Round the world?

This is a question we’re often asked. But asking how much it costs to ride around the world is like asking how much does a human spend per day?

We’re all different, from different parts of the world with different needs, wants,  opinions, tolerances, levels of required comfort and we all spend differently.

What we personally spend is probably wildly different from other riders. Put 10 travellers in a room and we’ll all spend different amounts per day.

Take this entire guide for example, we’ve mentioned loads of ways to save money on the road, but that doesn’t mean it’ll work for everyone. You might want more luxury, your jacket might cost £1,000 while another rider’s cost £50. You might want to go from Vladivostok to South Korea and Japan while someone else might just ship straight from Russia to the US and skip the expensive ferries. 

So, if it’s all so different, then how do we figure out how much a round the world motorcycle trip costs? We can only gauge very rough ranges (and whatever we gauge before you leave, will no doubt change once you’re on the road). 

Use the advice in this guide. Plot your rough route and figure out your fixed costs like shipping between certain countries, your bike, gear and equipment, visas, paperwork, insurance etc. 

Then set yourself a daily living cost budget for the different countries you’re going through because some are of course more expensive than others. Take into account accommodation, food, water and activities. 

Put a pot aside for repairs, spares and emergencies. Add it all up and you’ve got a very rough figure. 

How much we personally spend on our RTW trip

We get it. Sometimes you just want to know hard numbers. Personally, we spend around £35 per day all-in for the both of us. That’s food, petrol, accommodation and everything else for two people.

That number decreases dramatically in cheaper countries (like Southeast and Central Asia) and increases in expensive countries (like the US and New Zealand). 

Read more motorcycle travel guides and tips  

Thanks for checking out our How to Motorcycle Travel on the Cheap Guide. We hope you enjoyed it and found it useful! Here’s a few more articles on motorcycle trip planning, guides and tips that we recommend you read next. 

How to Make Money While Motorcycle Travelling

How to Motorcycle Round the World

• How to Go on a Motorcycle Adventure
• What They Don’t Tell You About Motorcycle Travel
• How to Choose Your Adventure Bike Riding Gear
• The Complete Motorcycle Trip Packing List

Liked that? Try these…

The Ultimate Adventure Bike Tool Kit

The 10 Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets

The Ultimate Motorcycle Camping Gear Checklist

The 10 BEST Motorcycle Camping Tents

Are you planning a motorcycle trip and want to ask a question about money, budgeting or travelling on the cheap? Let us know in the comments below. 

14 thoughts on “How to Motorcycle Travel on the Cheap”

Super helpful article and just what I was looking for. Will be trying out most of these on my big trip next year and hopefully I’ll be able to travel for longer. Thanks very much

Hey Mikey! Thanks, glad you found it helpful. Awesome to hear you’ve got a big trip planned next year. Where are you headed?

I love to read any tips that I can get my hands on, to improve my motorcycle riding experience. Thanks for sharing these nuggets with us. Please do more and more of these. Great theme as well, easy to read and feels great while doing so.

Hey Omar, thanks very much for your kind words! Glad you like the site and the article. Much appreciated! All the best, Andy

As I mentioned in the forum, this is definitely one of my favourite articles. So much solid information in here. Thanks.

I can vouch for almost every tip here as that’s how I travel. Gotta love reward points! Just a note for those how intrigued by Couchsurfing – yes it is free but consider thanking your host with a gift from your country, taking them out for a meal or drink or cooking them dinner. If you’re staying with a lot of hosts, you might need to factor this into your budget. You are under no obligation to do or give your host anything, but it’s a nice gesture.

Hi Arpita, thanks for your comment! Yes, you’re exactly right. It’s a lovely gesture to give your host a gift or treat them to a meal etc, especially considering they’re hosting a complete stranger in their own home! Great comment, thanks very much! 🙂

Well, budget travel is a dream of everyone, yes right, we need to choose affordable hotel and also cheap rentals for the trip, it can also help people to make their travel money saver. thanks for the information.

Thanks for sharing this, guys. Motorcycle travel is a dream and it’s good to see some down-to-earth tips like these. Have a safe trip always!

Hi Patricia, thanks very much for your comment! Very kind and much appreciated. Hope this article helped and you get to do some motorcycle travelling soon! Thanks again 🙂

Thank you for sharing, It provides us some ideas what to chose that while working we could also travel.

Thanks Stanley! Glad you found this helpful. Cheers,

Great. It covers almost everything I had questions about in my mind while seeing the vlogs and touring. It started with a bike soft luggage search and I landed here at quite a GOto place where one can almost tour the world with your help. I would like to know where from India I can travel on my bike (no hassles of Visa and transfers, paper work etc.) is very simple e.g. India to Sri-Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal so to say where the currency exchange is also a favorable one. Can you chalk out the tour for anybody (customize) with these points in mind and from India to near by but multi-national trips.

Hi Ajit, thanks for your comment, glad you found this article helpful. Yes, India is a difficult country to start your travels from due to the Carnet restrictions on neighbouring countries. And if you are an Indian national then it’s even harder as you’re heavily restricted by the countries around you. You can’t go west due to no entry to Pakistan, east is to Myanmar which is currently closed off and so you’ve got north to China which is incredibly expensive as you need a guide. So, short of shipping, you’ve got the right idea by listing Sri, Bangl and Nepal. I would suggest visiting our Asia Destination Guides page and clicking on India and Nepal. You’ll find guides in there packed with info on great routes, roads and tours for both countries. Hope this helps. Cheers, Andy

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Indian Reveals All-New Scout Lineup for 2025

Five models powered by new 1,250cc SpeedPlus engine

Indian announced a fully-revamped Scout lineup, led by an all-new 101 Scout model. The new 2025 Indian Scout range features a new frame and a new 1,250cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, making for the first full-scale revamp of the line since Polaris relaunched Indian.

The 2025 Indian Scout will be available in five different variants: the heritage-inspired Scout Classic, the stripped-down Scout Bobber, the light touring Super Scout, the aggressive Sport Scout, and, bringing back a historic name from Indian’s past, the range-topping 101 Scout. If these variants sound somewhat familiar, it’s because they mirror the air-cooled Chief line. We’ll get into the variants later, after delving more into the new Scout platform.

All of the new Scouts are powered by a new liquid-cooled 1,250cc four-valve, DOHC, 60° V-Twin engine dubbed the SpeedPlus. With that displacement, it’s clear that Indian is putting the engine up directly against Harley-Davidson’s 1,250cc Revolution Max engine. Indian claims the engine has an output of 82 lb-ft. at 6,300 rpm (10 lb-ft. more than the previous Scout engine) and, for most of the Scout range, 105 hp at 7,250 rpm. The 101 Scout claims a bit more power at a claimed 111 hp at 7,250 rpm, and while the peak torque is the same, Indian says it offers more along the top of the rev range. The performance differences stem from a different engine calibration, with no change in parts from the regular Scout engine, and Indian hinted at a future option to unlock the extra performance on non-101 models.

Indian also mentioned smaller displacement “Sixty” model variants are on its way, as they were on the previous Scouts. Indian wouldn’t say when they will arrive, or which variants would offer a Sixty model. We can confirm, however, that it will be a 1,000cc displacement, which would put it close to the 975cc version of Harley-Davidson’s Revolution Max engine.

The engine’s casings have a less industrial look compared to the previous Scout engine. We suspect, however, that some will find the design to be a little too clean, lacking a bit of visual character or connection to past models, like the air-cooled Thunderstroke engine, or even the PowerPlus engine which, while liquid-cooled, still sports cooling fins around the cylinder head.

The cleaner look does extend to the new, slimmer radiator, which is more discreetly tucked into the down tubes of the new steel frame. The side plates, subframe, and rear fenders are also new, forming the backbone of the new Scout line.

Most of the Scout range gets the same 41mm telescopic fork with 4.7 inches of travel, except for the 101 Scout which is upgraded with an adjustable 43mm inverted fork with 5.9 inches of travel. The 101 Scout also gets dual fully-adjustable piggyback shocks with 3.0 inches of travel, while the rest of the range makes do with preload-adjustable dual shocks with 3.0 inches of travel (2.0 inches on the Scout Bobber).

The Classic, Bobber, Sport and Super Scouts are equipped with a single two-piston caliper with a 298 mm semi-floating rotor up front, while the 101 Scout gets dual four-piston calipers and 320mm rotors. All the Scouts share the same rear brakes, with a single 298mm rotor and a single-piston caliper.

For 2025, Indian is offering multiple trim options: Standard, Limited, and Limited +Tech. The first two are available for the Scout Classic, Scout Bobber, and Sport Scout, and includes standard ABS, LED lighting, an analog gauge and new fuel level and fuel economy readouts. The Limited trim adds traction control, cruise control, a USB charger, and three selectable ride modes: Sport, Standard, and Tour.

The Limited +Tech trim comes standard on the Super Scout and 101 Scout, and is available for the others. It swaps out the analog display for a 4” round touchscreen that brings Indian’s Ride Command software and GPS navigation to the Scout for the first time. The Limited +Tech trim also adds push-button start and keyless ignition, plus access to a Ride Command+ upgrade.

All five Scout models should arrive in dealerships in May. We'll break down pricing and colors for each model and trim below.

2025 Indian Scout Classic

The Scout Classic draws from Indian’s heritage, with flared fenders, chrome exhaust, and 16-inch wire-spoke wheels clad in Pirelli Night Dragon tires. Of course, the larger fenders do mean added weight, with Indian claiming a weight (as shipped) of 536 pounds. The Scout Classic is available in Standard, Limited, and Limited +Tech trims.

• Black Metallic - $13,999
• Black Metallic - $14,699
• Silver Quartz Smoke - $15,199

Limited +Tech

• Black Metallic - $15,699
• Silver Quartz Smoke - $16,199
• Ghost White 2-Tone Metallic - $16,699
• Sunset Red 2-Tone Metallic - $16,699

2025 Indian Scout Bobber

The Scout Bobber comes blacked out, with chopped fenders, and a headlight nacelle. The 16-inch cast wheels come with a Pirelli MT60RS tire up front and a Pirelli Night Dragon at the rear. The solo bobber-style seat and lowered suspension give it a low stance, though that does reduce the suspension travel to just 2.0 inches. At a claimed 522 pounds, as shipped, the Bobber comes in as the lightest in the range. It will be available in Standard, Limited, and Limited +Tech trims.

• Black Metallic - $12,999
• Black Metallic - $13,699
• Black Smoke - $14,199
• Sunset Red Smoke -$14,199
• Black Smoke - $15,199
• Sunset Red Smoke - $15,199
• Spirit Blue Metallic - $15,699
• Nara Bronze Metallic - $15,699

2025 Indian Super Scout

The Super Scout adds some touring practicality to the line, with saddlebags, quick-release windshield, and passenger seating all standard. It runs on wire-spoke 16-inch wheels, clad in Pirelli MT60RS tires. With the added accessories, it’s no surprise the Super Scouts comes in as the heaviest of the range, claiming an as-shipped weight of 571 pounds. The Super Scout is only available in the Limited +Tech trim.

• Black Metallic - $16,499
• Black Smoke w/graphics - $16,999
• Maroon Metallic w/graphics - $16,999

2025 Indian Sport Scout

The Sport Scout comes with a quarter fairing, and a six-inch handlebar riser with machined highlights for more aggressive riding. The sport-style seat offers extra back support to improve comfort to compliment the sportier ergonomics. The Sport Scout comes with a 19-inch cast wheel up front to go with the 16-inch rear wheel, both clad in Metzeler Cruisetec tires. The Sport Scout is available in Standard, Limited, and Limited +Tech trims.

• Black Metallic - $13,499
• Black Metallic - $14,199
• Black Smoke - $14,699
• Storm Blue - $14,699
• Nara Bronze Smoke - $14,699
• Black Metallic - $15,199
• Black Smoke - $15,699
• Storm Blue - $15,699
• Nara Bronze Smoke - $15,699

2025 Indian 101 Scout

Polaris has been holding onto the 101 Scout name, pretty much since it acquired Indian, but it waited for a model that would be worthy of the historic name. The new 101 Scout is designed to be the highest performance Scout ever produced, with its more powerful engine, Brembo brakes, adjustable inverted fork, and fully-adjustable piggyback rear shocks.

Otherwise, the 101 Scout is similar to the Sport Scout, with the same solo seat and underslung bar-end mirrors.

The 2025 Indian 101 Scout is available in the Limited +Tech trim.

• Sunset Red Metallic w/graphics - $16,499
• Ghost White Metallic w/graphics - $16,999

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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.

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Very nice lineup for the Scouts. If I ever switch to a cruiser instead of a Naked bike, I'd opt for the Bobber or the Sport Scout. These bikes come in at low weights (522/528) for cruisers with good amounts of hp at 105, I'm liking that. Much better than my old 2012 H-D Sportster XL1200 Custom's 66 hp at 582 pounds. They're performance cruisers! I'd never buy a Harley again, bad experience, but I'm open to Indian, the best American cruiser brand.

Not offering a mid- peg version is a mistake. Forward pegs are a non- starter for a good number of riders. Beautiful bikes, though and a good bit more interesting than their Harley segment competitors.

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Get your motor runnin’ with these motorcycle facts

Posted: February 13, 2024 | Last updated: February 13, 2024

The open road, the wind, and the speed. Riding on two wheels is a synonym of freedom for many. The bottom line is, riding a motorcycle can definitely make any journey much more fun.

Get your motor runnin’ and check out these amazing facts about motorcycles!

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Convoys of motorcycles are quite common around the world. In Brazil, for instance, the procession of 'Our Lady of Aparecida' attracts thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts.

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