Long drives on a motorcycle are exhilarating, and a reliable bike can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re exploring scenic routes or embarking on a cross-country journey, it’s crucial to have a bike that’s both comfortable and performance-oriented. Here’s a curated list of the best bikes for long drives in India, complete with their specifications and prices.
Top 10 and Best Bikes for Long Drives in India
1. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
- Price: ₹3.03 – ₹3.31 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 648 cc, parallel-twin, air-cooled
- Power: 47 HP at 7,150 RPM
- Torque: 52 Nm at 5,250 RPM
- Mileage: 25 km/l
- Features: Comfortable seat, relaxed riding position, dual-channel ABS
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: Known for its retro charm and powerful engine, the Interceptor 650 offers a smooth ride on both highways and city roads.
2. Kawasaki Versys 650
- Price: ₹7.69 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 649 cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled
- Power: 66 HP at 8,500 RPM
- Torque: 61 Nm at 7,000 RPM
- Mileage: 21 km/l
- Features: Adjustable windscreen, long-travel suspension, upright seating
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: Built for adventure touring, this bike’s ergonomic design and powerful engine make it perfect for Indian roads.
3. BMW G 310 GS
- Price: ₹3.30 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 313 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
- Power: 33.5 HP at 9,250 RPM
- Torque: 28 Nm at 7,500 RPM
- Mileage: 30 km/l
- Features: Adjustable suspension, dual-channel ABS, lightweight frame
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: With its adventure-ready design, the G 310 GS is ideal for both city and off-road long journeys.
4. Honda H’ness CB350
- Price: ₹2.09 – ₹2.15 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 348 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled
- Power: 21 HP at 5,500 RPM
- Torque: 30 Nm at 3,000 RPM
- Mileage: 35 km/l
- Features: Comfortable seat, retro design, Honda Smartphone Voice Control
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: Offering a relaxed riding experience, the H’ness CB350 is a reliable choice for highway cruising with ample torque and stability.
5. Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT
- Price: ₹8.92 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 645 cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled
- Power: 70 HP at 8,800 RPM
- Torque: 62 Nm at 6,500 RPM
- Mileage: 23 km/l
- Features: Traction control, spoked wheels, and long-travel suspension
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: Its adventure-touring features and robust engine make it a dependable companion for long-distance trips.
6. Yamaha FZ25
- Price: ₹1.50 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 249 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled
- Power: 20.8 HP at 8,000 RPM
- Torque: 20.1 Nm at 6,000 RPM
- Mileage: 35 km/l
- Features: LED headlights, dual-channel ABS, digital instrument cluster
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: Compact yet powerful, the FZ25 is budget-friendly and perfect for those looking for a comfortable long drive experience without breaking the bank.
7. Bajaj Dominar 400
- Price: ₹2.29 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 373.3 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
- Power: 40 HP at 8,800 RPM
- Torque: 35 Nm at 7,000 RPM
- Mileage: 27 km/l
- Features: Slipper clutch, twin-barrel exhaust, LED headlamp
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: Known as a “power cruiser,” the Dominar 400 offers great stability on highways with its powerful engine and sturdy build.
8. Royal Enfield Himalayan
- Price: ₹2.15 – ₹2.23 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 411 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled
- Power: 24.3 HP at 6,500 RPM
- Torque: 32 Nm at 4,500 RPM
- Mileage: 30 km/l
- Features: Switchable ABS, long-travel suspension, luggage racks
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: With its adventure-touring design, the Himalayan is ideal for rugged terrains and long road trips, especially in mountainous areas.
9. Hero Xpulse 200
- Price: ₹1.27 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 199.6 cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled
- Power: 18 HP at 8,500 RPM
- Torque: 17.35 Nm at 6,500 RPM
- Mileage: 40 km/l
- Features: Long-travel suspension, digital console, lightweight frame
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: A budget-friendly adventure bike, the Xpulse 200 is perfect for beginners and has a robust design for rough roads and extended rides.
10. Harley-Davidson Street Rod
- Price: ₹6.55 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 749 cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled
- Power: 70 HP at 8,750 RPM
- Torque: 65 Nm at 4,000 RPM
- Mileage: 18 km/l
- Features: High output engine, drag-style handlebars, dual-disc brakes
- Why It’s Great for Long Rides: This American cruiser offers an unmatched experience with its strong build, high torque, and powerful engine suited for long highway cruises.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bike for long rides can significantly impact your comfort and enjoyment. These bikes, ranging from adventure models to cruisers, cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury, performance, or affordability, there’s a bike here to suit every long-distance traveler’s needs in India.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Bikes for Long Rides
1. What factors should I consider when choosing a bike for long rides?
- Answer: When selecting a bike for long rides, consider factors such as comfort, fuel efficiency, engine performance, riding position, luggage capacity, and suspension quality. Additionally, ensure the bike has features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), good mileage, and a comfortable seat for an enjoyable long-distance experience.
2. Are cruiser bikes better for long rides than sports bikes?
- Answer: Yes, cruiser bikes are often more comfortable for long rides compared to sports bikes. Cruisers offer a more relaxed, upright seating position, which helps reduce fatigue on extended journeys. However, sports tourers with ergonomic designs can also be suitable for long rides.
3. What is the ideal engine capacity for a long-distance touring bike?
- Answer: Bikes with an engine capacity of around 350 cc to 650 cc or higher are generally ideal for long rides, as they offer a balance between power and fuel efficiency. Higher engine capacities allow for smoother rides on highways and can sustain higher speeds comfortably.
4. Which type of bike is best for road trips on Indian terrains?
- Answer: For Indian terrains, adventure-tourer bikes and cruisers are among the best choices. Adventure-tourers like the Royal Enfield Himalayan or BMW G 310 GS handle rough roads and off-road conditions well, while cruisers like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 are comfortable on highways.
5. How important is fuel efficiency in a bike for long drives?
- Answer: Fuel efficiency is important, especially for long-distance travel, as it impacts your travel costs and reduces the need for frequent refueling stops. While high-powered bikes may consume more fuel, many touring bikes are designed to offer a good balance between power and mileage.
6. Are adventure-tourer bikes suitable for city rides as well?
- Answer: Yes, most adventure-tourer bikes are versatile enough for city and highway rides. While they’re designed for long distances and rugged terrains, they perform well in city conditions too, though their larger frame may be less maneuverable in dense traffic.
7. What additional gear should I carry for a long bike ride?
- Answer: Essential gear includes a quality helmet, riding jacket, gloves, knee guards, and boots for protection. You may also want to carry a toolkit, a puncture repair kit, a first-aid kit, GPS or navigation device, and a mobile charger. Luggage carriers or saddlebags are useful for carrying essentials.
8. How often should I service my bike if I go on frequent long rides?
- Answer: Regular maintenance is key to a safe and comfortable ride. Ideally, service your bike every 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers or as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. If you frequently go on long rides, check the bike’s engine oil, brakes, tires, and chain lubrication before each trip.
9. What’s the difference between a touring bike and an adventure bike?
- Answer: Touring bikes are designed primarily for comfort on paved roads and highways, focusing on stability, power, and smooth rides. Adventure bikes, on the other hand, are built for both on-road and off-road riding, with features like higher ground clearance, rugged tires, and long-travel suspension.
10. Can I use a 200 cc bike for long-distance rides?
- Answer: Yes, you can use a 200 cc bike for long rides, especially if it’s designed for touring or adventure, like the Hero Xpulse 200. However, smaller engines may feel less powerful on highways, so if you’re planning frequent long-distance trips, you might consider bikes with slightly higher engine capacities for better performance.
11. What are some of the best budget-friendly bikes for long rides in India?
- Answer: Budget-friendly bikes that are great for long rides include the Yamaha FZ25, Hero Xpulse 200, and Bajaj Dominar 400. These bikes offer good mileage, comfort, and reliability for their price range, making them excellent options for long-distance travel without overspending.
12. Is ABS necessary on a bike for long rides?
- Answer: Yes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is recommended for long rides, especially when riding on highways or challenging terrains. ABS helps prevent wheel lock-up during sudden braking, improving safety and control, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.
