They say there’s no better way to experience a journey than on a motorcycle. And I agree — mostly. Because while a bit of discomfort is part of the fun, there’s a fine line between “character-building” and “trip-ruining.” And when you cross that line, you know the bike just isn’t the right fit for you.
My VFR 800 Mistake
A few years back, I bought a Honda VFR 800. Everyone told me it was one of the most comfortable touring motorcycles they’d ever ridden. So, I bought into the hype — literally.
The first hour was fine, as it always is on a new bike. But then the discomfort set in. Legs aching. Back stiff. And the arse ache… relentless. By the time I got home from the 270-mile ride, I knew I’d made a mistake.
It wasn’t that the VFR 800 was a bad bike — it just wasn’t the right bike for me.
Why Comfort is So Personal
It goes without saying that comfort is subjective. What feels like an armchair to one rider might feel like a medieval torture device to someone else. And no amount of online reviews can change that.
So here’s the truth: I can’t sit here and tell you which are the most comfortable touring motorcycles for you. But I can tell you which ones I’ve found comfortable — and which ones I haven’t.
Here’s my personal list of touring motorcycles that offer that rarified blend of comfort, practicality, and all-day riding goodness.
My Top Touring Motorcycles for Comfort
Honda Goldwing
The Goldwing remains a luxurious benchmark for comfort, and for good reason. Its broad, well-padded seat is paired with generous passenger accommodations, making long two-up journeys a doddle. Plush suspension soaks up every bump in the road, and heated grips, heated seats, and an electronically adjustable windscreen keep you riding in total comfort. Add in cruise control, Apple CarPlay integration, and a massive 1833cc six-cylinder engine that wafts along with barely a vibration, and you’ve got the ultimate touring package. It is, and always will be, one of the most comfortable touring motorcycles on the market.
BMW K1600 GTL
The K1600 GTL’s inline-six engine is legendary for its silky-smooth power delivery, and the comfort-focused design doesn’t stop there. Electronically adjustable suspension (ESA) lets you fine-tune damping on the move, tailoring the ride to your preference or load. The GTL’s expansive windscreen and fairing create a bubble of calm at speed, while heated grips and seats keep you toastie when the temperature drops. The ergonomics place you in an upright, natural position that takes the strain off your back and wrists, making long days in the saddle the norm.
BMW R 1250 RT
A classic in the touring segment, the R 1250 RT delivers comfort through a refined ergonomic triangle: relaxed knee angle, wide bars, and a supportive seat for all-day comfort. The shiftcam 1254cc boxer twin delivers torque-rich performance with minimal vibration, and the electronically adjustable windscreen can be raised or lowered at the touch of a button. The ESA semi-active suspension adapts to changing road conditions to keep the ride buttery-smooth, and adjustable seat height and optional heated seats ensure optimal comfort.
Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+
Lighter and sportier than the big tourers, the Tracer 9 GT+ still packs serious comfort credentials. Its semi-active KYB suspension automatically adjusts damping to match riding conditions, soaking up potholes and rough surfaces. The riding position is upright and relaxed, with an adjustable screen that does a decent job of stopping the wind. The seat, while narrower than some touring machines, is surprisingly comfortable for a bike of this kind. Add in heated grips, cruise control, and a suite of rider aids (such as radar-linked adaptive cruise control), and the Tracer 9 GT+ becomes a surprisingly well-rounded long-distance tourer.
Honda NT1100
Built on the proven Africa Twin platform, the NT1100 was designed to be a mile-eater from the start. Its seat is wide and supportive, and the ergonomics place you in a natural, upright posture that’s comfortable all day long. The large, adjustable screen provides excellent wind and weather protection, while the wide handlebars offer precise control without stressing your wrists. Cruise control comes as standard, and there’s a DCT automatic transmission option for riders who want to skip the clutch altogether. Suspension is well-tuned for comfort, and the 1084cc twin is smooth and tractable. You can read our review of the Honda NT1100 here.
Kawasaki Ninja 1100 SX
Though it’s built with sport-touring in mind, the Ninja 1100 SX surprises with its comfort. The seat is firm enough for spirited riding yet padded to remain comfy on multi-hour rides, and the ergonomics place you in a balanced position that doesn’t feel too aggressive or too relaxed. The fairing and adjustable windscreen cut the wind effectively, while the bike’s electronic rider aids (including cruise control, cornering ABS, and traction control) help you stay fresh and focused. The 1100cc inline-four engine is smooth and super capable, offering ample power. It’s a great compromise between sporty performance and long-haul comfort. The Ninja was my weapon of choice from 2022-2025. You can read our review of the older Kawasaki Ninja SX here.
Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello
The V100 Mandello blends Italian style with touring comfort. Its upright riding position and generous seat give it a relaxed, easygoing vibe that’s ideal for covering distance. The bike’s trick adaptive aerodynamics system deploys wind deflectors at speed to reduce buffeting and fatigue – I’m still not convinced they do anything, but they’re cool all the same! The transverse V-twin delivers a torquey, laid-back character with enough punch, while the suspension and electronically adjustable screen keep the ride smooth and quiet. It’s a unique option for riders who want comfort with a touch of soul. (I very nearly bought one this year.)
BMW R 1300 GS / Adventure
The R 1300 GS (and Adventure) is the latest iteration of the GS’s proven comfort formula and practicality. Its neutral riding position puts no pressure on your wrists or knees, making it perfect for long days in the saddle. The semi-active electronic suspension (Dynamic ESA) adjusts instantly to changes in road surface, keeping the ride comfortable and predictable. The screen and fairing do an excellent job of shielding you from the elements, and the bike’s torquey 1300cc boxer twin is smooth and linear. Add in seat height adjustability and heated grips, and it’s easy to see why the GS has become a go-to choice for many touring riders.
Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE
The Versys 1100 SE is purpose-built for comfort. Its Showa Skyhook semi-active suspension keeps the ride comfortable and controlled, while the wide, supportive seat is tailored for long stints in the saddle. The riding position is natural and upright, with wide bars and relaxed peg placement that won’t leave your legs cramped. Wind protection is excellent, thanks to a tall adjustable windscreen and broad fairing. With cruise control, multiple ride modes, and an 1100cc inline-four that’s as smooth as it is powerful, the Versys 1100 SE is a very comfortable and versatile touring bike.
Final Thoughts: The Comfort of the Ride
So that’s my take on the most comfortable touring motorcycles. But comfort is subjective, evolving, and personal. What matters is finding a setup that lets you keep riding long after your legs, back, and mind start to wander.
In the end, the most comfortable bike is the one that lets you keep going — and keeps you smiling the whole way.