Touring motorcycles are often associated with big price tags, premium features, and expensive ownership costs. But buying a brand-new touring bike isn’t the only way to enjoy long-distance riding. The used motorcycle market is packed with capable machines that can handle highways, winding mountain roads, and multi-day adventures without putting a huge dent in your wallet.
A well-chosen used touring motorcycle can offer comfortable ergonomics, useful luggage capacity, strong engines, and impressive reliability for a fraction of its original price. The key is knowing which models have aged well and what to look for before handing over your money.
Here are 10 affordable used touring motorcycles that continue to offer outstanding value for riders who want to travel farther without spending a fortune.
What Makes a Used Touring Motorcycle Worth Buying?
A good touring motorcycle needs to do more than simply run reliably. It should be comfortable for hours in the saddle, stable at highway speeds, reasonably easy to maintain, and practical enough to carry luggage. Features such as a relaxed riding position, wind protection, a generous fuel tank, and a supportive seat can make a huge difference on long journeys.
Used bikes become particularly attractive when they combine these qualities with affordable parts and proven mechanical designs. Depreciation can also work strongly in the buyer’s favor, allowing you to purchase a motorcycle that originally cost considerably more for a much lower price.
What Is the Honda Gold Wing Still Good For?
The Honda Gold Wing has earned legendary status among touring riders, and older generations can be surprisingly affordable on the used market. Its smooth engine, excellent long-distance comfort, and substantial road presence make it particularly appealing to riders who regularly cover serious mileage.
Older Gold Wings are certainly large, but that size comes with benefits. They offer excellent wind protection, comfortable seating, generous storage, and effortless highway performance. A carefully inspected older model can deliver an enormous amount of touring ability for the money.
What Makes the Yamaha FJR1300 Such a Strong Buy?
The Yamaha FJR1300 is an excellent choice for riders who want touring comfort without giving up the excitement of a powerful motorcycle. Its four-cylinder engine provides strong acceleration, while the riding position remains comfortable enough for extended journeys.
Used examples can offer remarkable value because these motorcycles were built with serious mileage in mind. Many models also provide useful wind protection, shaft drive, and practical touring equipment. For riders who want one motorcycle capable of commuting during the week and crossing states on the weekend, the FJR1300 is difficult to overlook.
What Can You Expect From the Kawasaki Concours 14?
The Kawasaki Concours 14 is another motorcycle that delivers a lot of performance for used-bike money. Based on Kawasaki’s high-performance platform, it combines a powerful engine with touring-oriented ergonomics and substantial luggage capacity.
This is a particularly appealing option for riders who find traditional touring motorcycles too bulky or relaxed. The Concours 14 has enough performance to make twisty roads entertaining while remaining comfortable during long highway stretches. Its strong engine and shaft drive also make it well suited to carrying a passenger and luggage.
What Keeps the Suzuki V-Strom 650 So Popular?
The Suzuki V-Strom 650 may not look like a traditional luxury tourer, but its versatility has made it a favorite among riders who value practicality. Its upright riding position, manageable weight, dependable V-twin engine, and comfortable ergonomics make it an excellent choice for long trips.
Used V-Strom 650s are often easy to find, and their relatively simple mechanical design can help keep ownership costs reasonable. It is equally happy exploring back roads, handling daily commuting duties, or spending an entire day on the highway.
What Makes the Honda ST1300 a Touring Bargain?
The Honda ST1300 is one of those motorcycles that can quietly fly under the radar in the used market. It was designed specifically for serious long-distance riding, giving owners a combination of smooth performance, weather protection, and excellent highway stability.
Its V4 engine is known for delivering strong, refined performance, while the shaft drive reduces routine chain maintenance. Because newer motorcycles have attracted much of the attention in recent years, older ST1300 examples can represent excellent value for riders who prioritize capability over having the latest technology.
What Does the BMW R1200RT Offer for Less Money?
A used BMW R1200RT can be an attractive option for riders who want premium touring features without paying the price of a newer motorcycle. The RT is designed around long-distance comfort, with excellent wind protection, an upright riding position, and plenty of equipment.
Maintenance history is particularly important when shopping for an older BMW. A well-maintained example can be a fantastic touring machine, but buyers should inspect service records carefully and budget for potential repairs associated with an aging premium motorcycle.
What Makes the Kawasaki Versys 650 a Smart Choice?
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is another motorcycle that proves touring doesn’t require enormous engine displacement. Its parallel-twin engine provides enough performance for highway travel while remaining approachable and relatively economical.
Its upright ergonomics are especially useful for riders who spend long hours on the road. Add a set of luggage and suitable wind protection, and the Versys becomes a capable budget touring machine. Its versatility also means owners aren’t limited to paved highways.
What Can the Suzuki Bandit 1250 Do on Long Trips?
The Suzuki Bandit 1250 is a wonderfully understated choice for affordable touring. It combines a muscular four-cylinder engine with a comfortable riding position and a reputation for simplicity.
Although it doesn’t have the same level of dedicated touring equipment as larger machines, adding luggage and a windshield can transform it into an extremely capable distance motorcycle. Its strong low- and mid-range torque also makes it enjoyable when riding with a passenger or carrying camping gear.
What Makes the Honda VFR800 a Great Sport-Touring Option?
For riders who want a little more excitement, the Honda VFR800 offers an appealing balance between sport riding and touring comfort. Its V4 engine is smooth and characterful, while the riding position is more relaxed than that of a pure sportbike.
The VFR can work particularly well for riders who spend part of their time carving through corners and the rest traveling between destinations. Older examples can be affordable, but buyers should pay attention to maintenance history and the condition of consumable components.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Used Tourer?
A low purchase price doesn’t automatically mean a good deal. Touring motorcycles often accumulate significant mileage, so condition and maintenance history matter more than the number displayed on the odometer.
Check the engine for leaks, listen for unusual noises, inspect the suspension, and examine the brakes and tires carefully. Look for signs of crash damage, especially around fairings, handlebars, engine covers, and luggage mounts. Electrical equipment should also be tested thoroughly because touring motorcycles can have more accessories and electronics than simpler machines.
Service records are extremely valuable. A motorcycle with higher mileage and consistent maintenance can be a much safer purchase than a low-mileage example that has been neglected.
What Is the Best Value Touring Motorcycle for You?
There isn’t one perfect used touring motorcycle for every rider. Someone who wants maximum comfort may prefer a Gold Wing, while a sportier rider could gravitate toward the FJR1300 or VFR800. Riders who want versatility and manageable running costs may find the V-Strom 650 or Versys 650 more appealing.
The real advantage of buying used is choice. With careful research and a thorough inspection, you can find a motorcycle that offers many years of enjoyable touring without requiring a new-bike budget.
A great touring motorcycle isn’t necessarily the newest or most expensive machine in the showroom. Sometimes, the best value is sitting in the used market, waiting for a rider who knows exactly what to look for.