Honda Gold Wing

It was in 1975 when Honda debuted the do-it-all GL1000 KO with a liquid-cooled 999cc flat four-cylinder engine, which spawned the iconic Gold Wing product line. Dubbed as “the ultimate motorcycle” by Honda, very few at that time knew that it will go on to become a gold standard and revolutionise the whole concept of motorcycle touring. 

For more than four decades, the Gold Wing, over its six generations, has provided its riders unmatched smoothness, excellent handling for its size, and class-leading features, which earned it a reputation as a “couch on wheels.” The current-generation model, which debuted in 2017, got a  ground-up update over its aging predecessor. Honda put the behemoth on a diet, making it lose more than 40kg, and added a DCT (dual-clutch transmission) option for the first time. The 1833cc flat-6 for the latest iteration was completely redesigned to make it more powerful, lighter and compact. 

Also read: Best bikes in the world: The power of BMW, Ducati, Triumph, Kawasaki and Honda

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide

For decades, the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide has been the epitome of a large American V-twin cruiser meant for munching miles. The current Electra Glide is powered by the manufacturer’s new Milwaukee Eight 1746cc V-twin engine.

BMW K1600GTL

Considered the closest rival to the Honda Gold Wing, the K1600GTL preserves BMW Motorrad’s tradition of durable and comfortable motorcycles for long-distance touring. The K1600GTL is powered by a transversely mounted 1649cc straight-six engine that produces 160hp.

Also read: Are you a motorcyclist by heart? You'll love these scary fast beasts in your garage

Ducati Multistrada 1260

The Multistrada 1260 is the perfect touring machine for those looking for a do-it-all motorcycle that can tackle both on-road and off-road conditions with ease and offer Ducati’s legendary sporty performance. The bike’s 1262cc V-twin churns out 158hp.