10 Best Low-Budget Motorcycles for Long Distances

If you live in the US, you have a special love and attraction for big American classic-looking motorcycles. These bikes are specifically designed to go long miles comfortably. Even if you don’t want to travel long distances, these giant American touring bikes will make you go for cross-country tours and long rides.

Motorcycles are of different types, each designed for a particular purpose. However, Americans love to tour and visit all the states on motorcycles. The bigger touring bikes are, the more expensive they are.

The most loved touring bikes in America are:

• Harley-Davidson Road Glide ($25,999)

• Harley-Davidson Street Glide ($25,999)

• Honda Gold Wing ($24,700)

• Indian Challenger ($26,4990

• Indian Chieftain ($23,999)

As you can see, you need to be rich to look great while touring on a bagger. If the purpose is just to explore unheard destinations, go long miles, and enjoy the essence of motorcycle touring, we have some excellent low-budget options for you.

You don’t need to suppress your desire to go long distances on a motorcycle, as this article lists some cheap motorcycles for long distances. Riders don’t need to sell their kidneys or homes or spend all their life savings on these giant-looking, heavyweight, and expensive touring bikes. Continue reading this article to learn about the 10 cheapest long-ride motorcycle options.

According to most reviews and riders’ opinions, the Kawasaki KLR 650 is one of the best low-budget touring motorcycles. Also, considering its class, weight, and capabilities, it is the best beginner motorcycle for long-distance.

The 2025 Kawasaki KLR 650 base model starts at $6,899-6,949. It is an ADV-style dual-sport bike designed for both on- and off-roading. You can also buy the better road version, the KLR 650 S, and the KLR 650 Adventure ABS with lower seat height at the same price.

Despite being a low-budget bike, it is still a full-sized bike that can carry your luggage easily. You can mount side cases, top cases, or tank bags, depending on your needs.

The KLR 650 is a two-in-one bike. Thanks to its dual-sport capability, you can make long rides more adventurous. This bike can comfortably handle bumps, rocks, and gravel thanks to its off-road-biased suspensions.

The Kawasaki KLR650 also has an incredibly user-friendly chassis, allowing the bike to maneuver easily. It equally offers an ideal experience on the road. Riders will have no issues while facing twists and turns on this bike.

One thing a rider looks for in a touring-capable motorbike is the fuel tank capacity. Fortunately, the KLR650 has 6.1 gals of gas-carrying capacity, which is excellent for long-distance riding.

The Benelli TRK 502 is a cheap yet attractive option for those looking for a versatile bike. For motorcyclists who are hesitant to buy a Benelli bike, the TRK 502 offers a good value for the money. It is a tremendous dual-purpose ADV bike.

However, by installing the side cases and trunk, The Benelli TRK 502 becomes a perfect long-distance commuter. This bike's power and torque are well-balanced for beginners and intermediate riders.

At first, it may look intimidating to a beginner due to being tall. However, it rides as smoothly as other notable ADV bikes. It is easy to ride and maneuver this bike.

You can ride the Benelli TRK all day long without being uncomfortable. It offers an upright riding position, and the seat is well-cushioned for the touring purpose.

The Benelli TRK 502 is fairly priced, having a price tag of only $6,599. Such an attractive price range makes it a trendy choice for many ADV tourers. Not just in the US, the Benelli TRK 502 has a good market presence in different parts of the world.

On top of superior comfort and ergonomics, the Benelli TRK 502 also offers excellent wind protection.

Don’t shy away from turning corners confidently while touring on this bike. Handling-wise, the TRK 502 feels excellent and stable. It is a type of bike that you will love to take long miles as a beginner. The Benelli TRK 502 can be your perfect ride partner if you fear going long distances.

The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is another road-biased, budget-friendly beginner motorcycle by Kawasaki. The company markets this bike as an adventure-style motorcycle. It also looks like a dual-purpose ADV bike.

However, the Versys-X 300 is a complete road bike thanks to its street-oriented tires. Its superior comfort and handling make it an ideal beginner-friendly touring option.

The 2024 model year will only cost you $6,199. The Versys-X 300 also features a decent-sized tall windscreen, well-padded seat, and luggage rack to make motorcycle touring an easy job.

Though the bike only carries a 296 cc parallel-twin engine, it still ensures a more extensive look. Thanks to its taller stature, you will not be considered a new rider while riding this bike.

Being beginner-friendly, an expert rider's power and torque figures are low. However, the ride quality, handling, and long-distance capability it offers are top-notch. The Versys-X 300 can still hit a top speed of 100 mph. The assist & slipper clutch makes clutch action and gear shifting smoother.

Though it is ideally most suitable for city traveling. For a beginner, it can be an all-in-one motorbike for highway cruising and long-distance touring. It can also handle a bit of dirt tracks.

If you want an adventure on a motorcycle tour, the Versys-X 300 will not disappoint you. You can confidently take this bike for moto camping and wilderness trips.

The Honda NX500, previously known as the CB500X, is an adventure-style bike. The bike was introduced in 2013 and is one of the best-selling Honda motorbike, particularly in Europe.

One of the most notable touring features of the NX500, making it an ideal long-distance low-budget bike, is its upright riding position. This bike is very comfortable, considering it is an ADV bike.

The engine may seem more minor for most experienced riders. However, it doesn’t compromise on the fun element. It is pretty sporty for road performance. Also, the parallel-twin engine makes it punchier on paved and gravel roads.

The Honda NX500 is also among the highly reliable bikes you can trust for long-distance rides. The power delivery is perfect and smooth for long rides.

Thanks to the efficient 471 cc parallel-twin engine, the Honda NX500 has an impressive fuel economy. It can maintain up to 60-70 mpg of fuel mileage, perfect for motorcycle touring.

The Honda NX500 is a sleek-looking bike with superior-level fit and finish. The windscreen installed on this bike is also adequate for ideal wind protection on longer rides.

Considering its versatile nature and power figures, the NX500 is an ideal daily commuter. Whether you want to ride within the city, cruise on highways, go canyon carving, or take this bike across the states, the NX500 does the job.

It is a perfect low-budget do-it-all motorcycle by Honda, available at a base price of $7,399. The bike features programmed fuel injection, premium Showa off-road capable front forks, ABS, and slipper & assist clutch.

A 4.7 gals fuel tank capacity and a remarkable 60-70 mpg fuel economy ensure 250-300 miles of range, depending on the riding conditions. You can make this bike more capable of going long miles with optional luggage racks, engine guards, and luggage bag options.

Royal Enfield is the best in the motorcycle industry if you are into low-budget, high-quality motorcycles. The one bike that has made its place from scratch and is now widely renowned for its impressive value for the money is the RE Himalayan 450.

The RE Himalayan 450 has been completely revamped in 2024. It is undoubtedly the most affordable adventure bike currently available in the market. You may find even cheaper bikes than this, but the RE Himalayan 450 is different.

On top of being affordable, the Himalayan 450 is reliable, classy, and has a decent fit and finish. The redesigned 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan is also a more modern and capable bike.

Let’s talk about the most notable features of the RE Himalayan 450. It is essential to mention that the all-new revamped RE Himalayan has nothing in common with the older-generation RE Himalayan 450.

The 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan has a considerably bigger engine, better aerodynamics, modern design, reengineered chassis, improved suspension, and better brakes.

The all-new RE Himalayan 450 will attract more riders looking for the best entry-level lightweight adventure bike. It is a great overall package and a versatile bike for different riding conditions.

Many reviewers have claimed to have traveled thousands of miles consecutively on this bike. This bike is undoubtedly highly suitable for long-distance rides.

There may be more potent options for experienced riders. However, the ride quality is fine. The power output and torque delivery are reasonable for most riding conditions.

The suspension technology and ride quality of the RE Himalayan 450 are also quite plush. This bike deserves to be on the list of the best low-budget motorcycles for long distances.

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is a classic, comfortable, affordable cruiser for relaxed long-distance riding. It is one of the best alternatives for the most comfortable Harley-Davidson cruisers.

On top of classic cruiser design and certain modern elements, the Super Meteor 650 provides a laidback riding style. The rider triangle is quite spacious for relaxed riding. You can ride this bike all day long without feeling cramped or uncomfortable.

Like the other top models in the Royal Enfield lineup, the RE Super Meteor 65 0 has a beautiful price tag. You can own this classic masterpiece, which has a 648 cc parallel-twin engine, at a very affordable price of $6,999.

You may not find a more suitable, refined, long-distance-capable cruiser motorcycle at such a price range. The fit and finish is also very spot on.

You only need to install a windscreen to prevent the incoming wind from disturbing your ride. Rest assured, the Super Meteor 650 is perfect for going long miles.

Having a 648 cc parallel-twin engine, the bike ensures a punchier performance. It not only delivers refined power, but the engine also generates decent torque.

The same 648 cc parallel-twin engine is installed on the RE INT 650 and the Continental GT 650. However, it raises the bars on a bike like the Super Meteor 650.

You can ride this bike for hours with a low seat height of 740 mm, forward foot controls, and decently swept-back handlebars.

The 4.1 gals of fuel tank capacity may not be extraordinary, but it still does a decent job to ensure a good range.

The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is one of the best-sellers in the Suzuki lineup. It has a huge fan following all around the world. This bike sells more than its larger siblings, including the V-Strom 1050.

The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is famous for various reasons. This bike holds a reputation as one of the most versatile, refined, and smooth operators. It is classified as one of the best urban commuters, highway cruisers, sports, adventure tourers, and a decent off-roader.

It is a middleweight ADV touring bike suitable for entry-level and trained riders.

Let’s talk about the V-Strom 650 ’s most notable features, making it a top low-budget touring motorcycle for riders of all classes. These include:

• Comfortable ergonomics.

• Upright riding position.

• Spacious rider triangle.

• Several luggage mounting options.

• Manageable power delivery.

• Perfect on-road handling.

• Reliable.

• Good build quality.

Riders can get all these qualities in one motorcycle at a very affordable price of $9,299. Considering its top-end specs, price tag, and superior ride quality, the V-Strom 650 ensures great value for the money.

Above all, its remarkable fuel efficiency makes the V-Strom 650 a preferred choice of many riders. A 5.3 gals fuel tank capacity ensures a greater range for long-distance traveling.

The 645 cc liquid-cooled, 90˚ V-twin engine ensures a smooth and manageable power delivery, making long-distance riding very comfortable. On top of comfortably touring, you have an all-in-one motorcycle to fulfill your passion for riding in different riding conditions.

With a few tweaks and adjustability in suspension settings, you can also take the Suzuki V-Strom 650 to light off-road terrains.

The Honda Rebel 500 is another great addition to the list of the best low-budget motorcycles for long distances. Many will argue that the Rebel 500 is an inherent touring bike. It is a modern cruiser with a slightly sportier stance.

Nonetheless, the Rebel 500 can take you long miles comfortably. After all, it is a cruiser. Though the ergonomics and rider triangle are more suitable for city traveling, they are still spacious enough to take long miles.

Also, considering its power figures, specs, and affordability, the Rebel 500 is a perfect platform for long-distance riding. It fits both the beginner and intermediate rider categories.

It has everything that it takes to be a good long-distance motorbike. The Rebel 500 is:

• Simple

• Reliable

• Requires less maintenance

• Highly fuel efficient

• Comfortable

The Rebel 500 is designed to make on-road experience perfect. The ride quality, along with the engine power delivery, is so smooth. It is also one of the perfect beginner to intermediate-level motorbikes for agile handling. It handles amazingly in traffic or around the corners.

The Rebel 500 also has a superior customization potential. You can turn this bike into a more suitable touring option by adding multiple luggage options, wind protection, and other accessories.

However, you must consider the Rebel 500’s limitations if you plan to buy it for touring. Wind buffeting can be a problem at high speeds without wind protection.

For experienced riders, the Rebel 500 lacks the top-end power. You may not enjoy the ride while riding on open roads and freeways at high speeds.

If you are looking for an upgrade and want something bigger than the Rebel 500, you can switch to the Rebel 1100. However, it will still not break the bank.

Considering the increase in power, additional tech features, and premium build quality compared to the Rebel 500, the Rebel 1100 seems affordable. The 2024 Rebel 1100 has a starting price of only $9,599.

However, if you don’t mind riding a motorcycle without a clutch, you can also buy the Rebel 1100 DCT for $10,299. It may sound a little too much, but it is a good deal with the quality of the motorcycle you are getting.

The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is a tested feature. It makes your rides more customizable, fun, and easy. You can switch between automatic and manual riding modes with a simple button push.

Automatic motorcycles are becoming popular as more and more new riders are starting to ride a motorcycle. These motorcycles provide a better and easier learning platform.

The Rebel 1100 looks more premium, compact, and complete. Also, it is powerful enough to take you long miles without hesitation. You will never get bored of this bike. You may also never need to upgrade to a more powerful motorbike.

Whether city traveling, highway cruising, or motorcycle touring, the Rebel 1100 is a complete package. Instead, you can have more fun on this bike thanks to the superfast acceleration.

Suppose someone says the 2024 KTM 390 Adventure is not a touring bike. They are talking about the ideal scenario. The company doesn’t market the KTM 390 Adventure as a touring bike. It is ideally an ADV bike, capable of both on- and off-roading.

Nonetheless, it doesn’t change the fact that the KTM 390 Adventure is a great entry-level option for long-distance riding. As a beginner, you may not require top-end power and torque delivery for smooth highway cruising and motorcycling touring.

If you ask beginners, they are completely satisfied with how the KTM 390 Adventure performs on long-distance rides. It is worth buying, considering it is relatively comfortable, can sustain highway speeds, and handles like a gem.

The 390 cc single-cylinder may sound small, but it does the job pretty well. It provides enough torque and power to take the bike to most places.

The KTM 390 Adventure ’s riding position is ideally designed for adventure-style riding. However, it is good enough for comfortable long-distance riding. It offers an upright riding style with mid-mounted foot pegs for standing up on pegs to overcome challenging off-road tracks.

The windscreen height may not be ideal for high-speed highway cruising, but it is better than having no wind protection. Riders can also add multiple luggage options on this bike to carry useful stuff on long motorcycle tours.

Being powered by a single-cylinder engine, the KTM 390 Adventure is also quite fuel-efficient. The KTM 390 Adventure is a renowned motorbike in different parts of the world. Those who have ridden this bike know how much it is worth. It ensures an unmatched performance. You can own this bike at a base MSRP of $7,599.

As motorcycling technology evolves, fans seek more versatile options to comfortably travel long distances. They want a motorcycle capable of on-roading, off-roading, urban commuting, highway cruising, and touring. They want an all-in-one motorcycle. However, they want such a motorcycle at an affordable price.

There are a lot of new and beginner riders wanting to start their motorcycling career. However, most of these riders have a limited budget to spend on a motorcycle. Finding a motorcycle that checks all the boxes and is affordable can get very challenging.

There is nothing to worry about. In this article, we have listed the 10 best low-budget motorcycles. All these motorcycles mentioned above have specific qualities, making them unique. You can choose any of them according to your riding preferences.

If you love to go long distances on a motorcycle, we have a list of equipment or add-ons to install on your motorbike to make it more touring-friendly. At Viking Bags, you can find sissy bars, crash bars, backrests, saddlebags, side cases, panniers, and trunk bags for your specific make and model.

Visit our online store to check out our premium products specially designed for your motorcycle.