- Table of Contents
- 1. What to Look for When Buying a Motorcycle?
- 1.1 Passenger Seat Size
- 1.2 Technology
- 1.3 Position & Angle of Pillion & Footpegs
- 1.4 Passenger Supports
- 1.5 Two-Up Suspension
- 1.6 Luggage Space
- 1.7 Engine Size
- 1.8 Parts to Remove
- 2. Top 15 Best Motorcycles For Carrying Passengers
- 2.1 Honda Gold Wing
- 2.2 Harley Davidson Ultra Limited
- 2.3 Suzuki Burgman 650
- 2.4 Harley Davidson Electra Glide
- 2.5 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT
- 2.6 BMW R1250 RT
- 2.7 Harley Davidson Tri Glide
- 2.8 BMW K 1600 GTL
- 2.9 Yamaha Star Venture
- 2.10 Harley Davidson Road Glide Limited
- 2.11 Can-Am Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky
- 2.12 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
- 2.13 Indian Pursuit
- 2.14 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
- 2.15 Harley Davidson Road King
- 3. How to Make a Motorcycle More Comfortable on a Long-Distance Ride?
- 4. Is It Hard to Ride a Motorcycle with a Passenger?
- 5. Do You Lean with the Motorcycle as a Passenger?
- 6. What Makes a Good Touring Motorcycle?
- 7. What is the Best Motorcycle Riding Position?
- 8. What Should a Motorcycle Passenger Not Do?
- 9. How To Know What the Best Motorcycle Is for Me To Carry Passenger?
- 10. FAQs
- 10.1 What is the Best Touring Motorcycle For Carrying A Passenger?
- 10.2 Do Women Feel Safe as Motorcycle Passengers?
- 10.3 How Can I Take Pictures While Riding a Motorcycle?
- 10.4 How Do People Ride a Motorcycle with A Heavy Passenger?
- 10.5 What Are the Best Harley Davidson Touring Motorcycles?
- 10.6 What is the Best Touring Motorcycle for Women?
- 11. Conclusion
Cruising on a motorcycle by yourself is fun, but going on an adventure tour with a buddy is more enjoyable. Many motorcycles have two seats for a reason, allowing riders to share their experiences with passengers.
When picking a motorcycle, you need to consider where you plan to go, what you want to carry, or if you are going alone or with a passenger.
Certain motorcycles can transport a passenger, while others cannot. Before getting a motorcycle, you need to know what to look for in a motorcycle able to carry passengers. This article provides a list of the 15 best motorcycles for carrying passengers comfortably.
1. What to Look for When Buying a Motorcycle?
A good motorcycle for carrying a passenger does not simply mean a motorcycle with a pillion.Listed below are 10 important factors to consider when buying a motorcycle that can transport passengers:
1.1 Passenger Seat Size
The size of the passenger seat helps determine comfort. Wider or thicker passenger seats help provide more durability.
1.2 Technology
Basic features like cruise control, ride modes, and adjustable suspensions can help make road trips less stressful.
1.3 Position & Angle of Pillion & Footpegs
Make sure the position and angle of the passenger seat and footpegs does not cause the passenger to be tightly pressed against the rider’s back. Check how close the gap is between the rider’s and passenger’s seats and footpegs.
1.4 Passenger Supports
An appropriate passenger set-up can help improve overall comfort and safety. To help the passenger stay seated when turning or braking, a passenger seat should include the following accessories:
- Backrest
- Handrails
- Armrests
- Footpegs
1.5 Two-Up Suspension
Adjustable suspensions allow you to change the settings to ensure a setup with the appropriate rebound, preload, and damping to ensure smoother and more comfortable riding.
1.6 Luggage Space
When choosing a motorcycle, you need to make sure that there is enough space to mount saddlebags even if with a passenger seated.
1.7 Engine Size
Because the passenger’s weight can affect your motorcycle’s speed and maneuverability, you need to consider the engine size. The motorcycle’s engine size should be appropriate to the rider’s skill level and able to sufficiently power a motorcycle carrying two people.
1.8 Parts to Remove
To make room for the passenger, you will have to remove parts that could cause discomfort. A few examples include the following:
- High-Mounted Footpegs
- Hard Luggage Bags
- Exhaust Pipes Below the Tail
- High-Mounted Scrambler-Style Pipes
- Breadbox
- Tail Cowl
2. Top 15 Best Motorcycles For Carrying Passengers
| Sr. no. | Motorcycle | Brand | Perk |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda Gold Wing | Honda | Recliner-like comfort |
| 2 | Harley Davidson Ultra Limited | Harley Davidson | Performs well on all terrains |
| 3 | Suzuki Burgman 650 | Suzuki | Best touring scooter |
| 4 | Harley Davidson Electra Glide | Harley Davidson | Low-tuned engine and comfortable seat |
| 5 | Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Lt | Kawasaki | Ideal for two-up riding |
| 6 | BMW R1250 RT | BMW | Suited for riders with advanced skills |
| 7 | Harley Davidson Tri Glide | Harley Davidson | Highly secure motorcycle |
| 8 | BMWK 1600 GTL | BMW | High speed and comfortable seat |
| 9 | Yamaha Star Venture | Yamaha | Ultimate two-up tourer |
| 10 | Harley Davidson Road Glide Limited | Harley Davidson | Has passenger-friendly amenities |
| 11 | Can-Am Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky | Can-Am | Unorthodox three-wheeler with comfortable seats |
| 12 | Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse | Indian Motorcycle | Best touring motorcycle |
| 13 | Indian Pursuit | Indian Motorcycle | Highly durable luxury touring motorcycle |
| 14 | Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS | Kawasaki | Durable seats and high carrying capacity |
| 15 | Harley Davidson Road King | Harley Davidson | Masculine style with durable seats |
2.1 Honda Gold Wing
Description
The Honda Gold Wing offers good comfort for the passenger, allowing them to sit like they are resting in a recliner.
First introduced in 1974, the Honda Gold Wing is a touring motorcycle icon with maximum comfort even when off-roading due to its cushioned seat.
Features:
- Heating
- Backrest
- 61 L trunk
- Electronic Preload Setup
- Multiple Ride Modes
- 55-Watt Speakers
- Apple CarPlay Integration
- Audio System with Sirius XM Satellite Radio
- CB Radio
Info
| Price | $25,600 |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.5 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 121 L |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.2 Harley Davidson Ultra Limited
Description
The Harley Davidson Ultra Limited has excellent performance and comfort with its bold styling and batwing fairings.
Features:
- Floorboards
- Upright Riding Position
- Passenger Seat w/ Backrest
- Tall Height and Suspension
- Saddlebags
- Fork Mounted Fairing
- Infotainment System
- Safety Features
Info
| Price | $29,169 |
| Fuel Capacity | 6.0 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 133 L |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.3 Suzuki Burgman 650
Description
The Suzuki Burgman 650 is a durable scooter with ample horsepower, plenty of storage space below the seat, and sporty handling. The stepped-up seat ensures your passenger is comfortable when off-riding.
Features:
- Four-Stroke Engine
- Twin Cylinder
- Liquid-Cooled
- DOHC
- ABS
| Price | $8,555 |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.0 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 21.5 L |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.4 Harley Davidson Electra Glide
About
The Harley Davidson Electra Glide is an affordable tourer ideal for riders looking to get away and enjoy cruising on highways.
Features:
- Upright riding position
- Floorboards
- Saddlebags
- Fork Mounted Fairings
- Powerful Engine
- Responsive Throttle
- Rumbling Sound
- Safety Features
Info
| Price | $18,999 |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 2.3 cu. |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.5 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT
Description
If you are a new rider, the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT is the best motorcycle for you. Despite being a heavy and large vehicle, this vehicle comes with features that allow for two-up riding. Also, the low seat and forward riding position leave ample room at the rear to mount a passenger pillion.
Features:
- Four-Stroke Engine
- TCBI w/ Electronic Advanced Ignition
- Semi-Double Cradle, High Tensile Steel
- Multiple Color Schemes
- Good Fuel Capacity
- Dual Throttle Valves
Info
| Price | $9,999 |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.3 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 2,440 cu. |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.6 BMW R1250 RT
Description
The BMW R1250 RT offers maximum comfort whether cruising at slow speeds or cruising at high speed. You can improve comfort for the passenger by installing extra accessories.
Features:
- Padded Seat
- Durable Seat
- Shift Cam Boxer Engine
- Extra-Large Display Screen
- Active Cruise Control
- Maximum Visibility
- Multiple Ride Modes
- Aerodynamic
Info
| Price | $20,345 |
| Fuel Capacity | 7.9 gal |
| Storage Capacity | Optional |
| Navigation | Optional |
2.7 Harley Davidson Tri Glide
Description
The Harley Davidson Tri Glide has advanced technology, bold styling, a premium paint job, and high-grade Tomahawk wheels. It is powered by a Twin Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine.
Features:
- Storage Space
- Upright Riding Position
- Floorboards
- Passenger Seat w/ Backrest
- Trunk
- Fork-Mounted Fairings
- Infotainment System
- Safety Features
Info
| Price | $38,099 |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 4.4 cu ft |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.8 BMW K 1600 GTL
Description
The BMW K 1600 GTL has excellent performance when going on tours due to its powerful engine, geometric design, and high comfort level.
Features:
- Multiple Color Schemes
- Customizable
- 10.25’’ TFT color display screen
- Fully Interactive Map
- Six-Cylinder In-Line Engine
- Horsepower - 160 hp
- Torque Control
- ESA Dynamic
Info
| Price | $26,895 |
| Fuel Capacity | 7.0 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 113 L |
| Navigation | Yes, Garmin |
2.9 Yamaha Star Venture
Description
The Yamaha Star Venture TC is an advanced transcontinental luxury tourer. Powered by a V-twin engine, this Yamaha model is built with advanced technology to ensure comfort and convenience.
Features:
- Star Infotainment System
- Six-Speed Transmission with Overdrive 5th & 6th Gears
- Throttle Control
- Traction Control
- Parking Support
- Chip Controlled Throttle
- Customizable
Info
| Price | $29,999 |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.94 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 37.3 gal |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.10 Harley Davidson Road Glide Limited
Description
The Harley Davidson Road Glide is one of the most popular Harley tourers, offering high levels of comfort if you are traveling with a passenger.
Feature:
- Backrest w/ Thick Padding & Soft Leather Upholstery
- Large top box w/ a radio antenna and luggage rack
- Multiple Color Schemes
- GTS Infotainment System
- Heated Grips
- Daymaker LED Headlights
- Milwaukee Marque’s Fairing
Info
| Price | $21,999 |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 4.7 cu ft. |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.11 Can-Am Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky
Description
The Can-AM Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky is an unorthodox Batman-style three-wheeler featuring SACHS suspensions. Best suited for shorter riders, the Can-Am Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky’s design makes it so you do not have to flat-foot.
Features:
- Integrated BRP Audio System
- Panoramic 7.8” LCD
- Can Connect w/ Riding Apps
- ROTAX 1330ACE Engine
- Reliable Traction
- Dynamic Electric Assist
- Anti-Theft System
- Six-Speed Transmission
- Brembo Brake System
Info
| Price | $29,999 |
| Fuel Capacity | 7 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 47 gal |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.12 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
Description
The Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse is an affordable motorcycle suited for touring and cruising. This vehicle features a liquid-cooled V-twin engine, multiple ride modes, and passenger-friendly features.
Features:
- Six-Speed, Thunder Stroke, Air-Cooled, 116 cu in V-Twin Engine
- 7” Infotainment System
- Multiple Color Schemes
- Fairing-Mounted Instrument Cluster
- LED Lights
- Telescopic Fork Front Suspension
Info
| Price | $30,999 |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.5 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 137 L |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.13 Indian Pursuit
Description
If you are looking for a traditional touring motorcycle with comfort, power, and attitude, Indian Pursuit is the right vehicle for you. A next-generation V-twin tourer, the Indian Pursuit is essentially an Indian Challenger bagger with luggage bags on top. This motorcycle handles smoothly at triple-digit speeds, but has sporty and aggressive handling when navigating winding roads.
Features:
- Touchscreen
- Adjustable Suspensions
- Brembo Brakes
- Heated Seats
- Windscreen
- 200-Watt Audio System
- Plush, Heated Seat
- Heated Handles
Info
| Price | $20,429 |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 2.3 cu ft |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.14 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
Description
The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Abs is the king of Kawasaki tourers. Powered by a 17,00 cc digitally fuel-injected V-twin engine, this Kawasaki model also includes an ABS, an electronic cruise control, and dual shocks that optimize damping.
Features:
- AM/FM/WB Audio System w/ SiriusXM Radio Compatibility
- Intercom Headset
- Dual Saddlebags
- Trunk
- Stylish Fairing
- ABS
Info
| Price | $18,299 |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.3 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 10 gal |
| Navigation | Yes |
2.15 Harley Davidson Road King
Description
The Harley Davidson Road King has a neo-classic style with a Hiawatha headlamp and nacelle. It comes with a classic chrome styling and has excellent touring performance. Fitted with a Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-twin engine, the Harley Davidson Road King is the ideal choice for long tours.
Features:
- Upright Riding Position
- Floorboards
- Passenger Seat
- Saddlebags
- Responsive Throttle
- Rumbling Sound
Info
| Price | $20,429 |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gal |
| Storage Capacity | 2.3 cu ft |
| Navigation | Yes |
3. How to Make a Motorcycle More Comfortable on a Long-Distance Ride?
Before going on a tour, there are ways you can improve the level of comfort on your motorcycle. You can add accessories and parts to expand your motorcycle’s capabilities.
Listed below are additional accessories and parts you can get to improve comfort:
- Heated Gloves
- Adjustable Levers
- Heated Grips
- Windshield
- Cruise Control
- Seat Pads
- Durable Handlebars
- Crash Bars
- Fairing
- Luggage Racks
- Sissy Bars
- Sissy Bar Pads
4. Is It Hard to Ride a Motorcycle with a Passenger?
Riding a motorcycle with a passenger means you need to be extra focused and be even more mindful of balance and grip.
If you are a beginner or intermediate rider, it will be difficult to ride with a passenger since you may lack experience. However, expert riders should find it easier so long as they properly modify their motorcycle to handle two-up riding.
5. Do You Lean with the Motorcycle as a Passenger?
Yes, the passenger should make sure to imitate the rider and lean in the direction the motorcycle is turning.
6. What Makes a Good Touring Motorcycle?
Listed below are the qualities that make a good touring motorcycle:
- Good MPG
- Comfort
- Space to Carry Luggage
- Large Fuel Tank Capacity
- Large Engine Size/Displacement
- Fairing & Windshield
7. What is the Best Motorcycle Riding Position?
The standard riding position requires you to sit with your back straight and your shoulders aligned with your hips.
On a cruiser: The rider should be slightly reclined, almost leaning back toward the rear.
On a tourer: Knees rest against the fuel tank, while the feet rest on the footpegs at a 90° angle.
8. What Should a Motorcycle Passenger Not Do?
Here are the four things a motorcycle passenger should never do:
- Don’t mount the motorcycle until the kickstand is up
- Don’t wrap your arms around the driver’s waist to hold on
- Don’t make any sudden movement; it can disturb the balance
- Never take your feet off the footrests!
9. How To Know What the Best Motorcycle Is for Me To Carry Passenger?
It is necessary to choose the right motorcycle to carry a passenger that fits best to you. How to know which motorcycle is best for me? Here are the ways to know all:
- Select budget-wise: for beginners, it is suggested not to buy expensive motorcycles initially.
- Look for the right fit and weight:Choose a motorcycle you can easily handle.
- Think about the horsepower
- Choose your style and try it before you buy
- Customize your motorcycle and hit the road
- Look for the features that comfort the passenger like a sissy bar, saddle bags, comfortable seats, handlebars, etc.
10. FAQs
10.1 What is the Best Touring Motorcycle For Carrying A Passenger?
The Harley Davidson Road King and the BMW 1600 Grand tie for the title of best touring motorcycle. The durability this motorcycle offers makes it best for touring by taking a passenger with you.
10.2 Do Women Feel Safe as Motorcycle Passengers?
If the passenger seat is uncomfortable, women may not feel safe riding with you. Not only due to the seat but also other motorcycle parts that are close to the passenger. Make sure to make your motorcycle
10.3 How Can I Take Pictures While Riding a Motorcycle?
It is best not to take pictures while riding; ask the passenger to take the pictures instead. If you want to take pictures yourself, adjust the camera support on the handlebars, adjust your phone, and set a timer.
10.4 How Do People Ride a Motorcycle with A Heavy Passenger?
If you plan to ride with a heavy passenger, make sure your motorcycle has a sturdy frame and heavy tires. A good body weight is important, but more weight can be disadvantageous. If the passenger loves his body, it will cause a misbalance that can lead to an accident.
10.5 What Are the Best Harley Davidson Touring Motorcycles?
The best Harley Davidson touring motorcycles are the Road King, Ultra Glide, and Tri-Glide.
10.6 What is the Best Touring Motorcycle for Women?
The BMW R1250 RT is the best touring motorcycle for women due to being highly durable, having adjustable suspensions, and a sturdy structure that better ensures the rider’s safety.
11. Conclusion
When choosing a motorcycle for a long-distance trip, make sure to compare the level of comfort between models.
Especially while choosing the motorcycle that provides comfort to the passenger you need to do more focus. There are many parts that are not available on a cruiser you like. But it is adjustable as you can the supportive parts of the motorcycle like fairings, saddle bags, sissy bars, etc. all on your own.
Another thing that you need to notice is the capacity of the motorcycle. Travel capacity matters a lot when buying a motorcycle. So, carefully look at what you are getting!
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