When it comes to the best motorcycle for enjoying comfortable touring, it's got to be a large engine displacement touring model. The large frame makes it easy to load luggage, and the ample engine power reduces vibration, making cruising on the highway a breeze. In particular, recent models have become more computerized with a variety of electronic control systems, allowing you to enjoy a safer and more stable ride.
Here we've picked out the latest Japanese-made large engine displacement touring models, and we'll introduce their main features and appeal.
SUZUKI GSX-S1000GX
The 2024 brand new model in Suzuki's large sports model "GSX-S1000" series is the "GSX-S1000GX."
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX (Photo shows European Model)
This model is positioned as a crossover motorcycle that combines sports touring and adventure. It was developed as a motorcycle that can be enjoyed comfortably on long tours in a wide range of fields, with high driving performance not only on the road but also off-road.
The front cowl uses a layered design that suppresses the generation of negative pressure generated while riding, preventing unpleasant wind from being caught in it. Combined with a three-stage height-adjustable windscreen and standard knuckle covers, it provides a high level of wind protection.
The 998cc water-cooled 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder engine delivers a maximum output of 110kW (150PS) and a maximum torque of 105N/m (10.7kgf/m). It features the power required for sports riding while adopting unique new technologies and equipment that improve touring performance.
For the suspension, the electronically controlled suspension "SAES (Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension)" is used for the first time in a Suzuki motorcycle. This is based on Showa's EERA and has been set up specifically for the GSX-S1000GX, making it possible to automatically adjust the suspension damping and preload according to changes in motorcycle posture caused by speed, road conditions, and braking.
The motorcycle also comes with the "SDMS-α" system, which allows the rider to select from three riding modes and switch engine control maps. Riding is supported by selecting a mode that suits the weather, road conditions, and the rider's preferences.
The electronically controlled suspension SAES also features the "SRAS (Suzuki Road Adaptive Stabilization System)" that works with the SDMS-α. This allows the rider to seamlessly switch between a setting that prioritizes responsiveness when riding on normal roads and a setting that provides a smoother ride when riding on cobblestones or uneven surfaces.
In addition, it also features "Smart Cruise Control" that allows you to maintain a set speed without operating the throttle, and "Bidirectional Quick Shift System" that allows you to shift gears (up/down) without operating the accelerator or clutch lever. It is equipped with many features that reduce fatigue during long touring.
Side view of GSX-S1000GX
[GSX-S1000GX Main Specifications]
■Length: 2150 mm x Width: 925 mm x Height: 1350 mm ■Shaft Length: 1470 mm ■Seat Height: 830 mm ■Curb Weight: 232 kg ■Engine: 998 cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder ■Maximum Output: 110 kW (150 PS)/11000rpm ■Maximum torque 105N-m (10.(7kgf-m)/9250rpm ■Fuel tank capacity 19L ■Fuel Consumption: WMTC mode value 17.0km/L ■Tire: front 120/70ZR17, 190 rear/50ZR17■Price (Including Tax) $12566.20
Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
Honda's adventure model, the CRF1100L Africa Twin, is the perfect model for touring in a wide range of fields, including on-road and rough terrain.
The lineup includes the CRF1100L Africa Twin <s>, which achieves excellent off-road performance with its long-stroke suspension, and the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES, which features electronically controlled suspension.
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES DCT
In addition, each model is also available with a "DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)" specification that combines an AT mechanism that does not require clutch lever or shift pedal operation, and a semi-automatic mechanism that allows gear shifting with the shift switch on the left handlebar. There are a total of four types, with a wide variety of variations.
CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT <s
The 2024 model will see a 7% increase in maximum torque from the 1082cc in-line twin-cylinder engine. The CRF1100L Africa Twin <s> will also feature tubeless tires on the front and rear, as well as a large, five-stage adjustable windscreen, further improving its practicality.
In addition, the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES has changed the front wheel from 21 inches to 19 inches. A wider front tire has also been adopted to improve on-road riding performance. Combined with a change in the shape of the upper middle cowl, this has the effect of reducing fatigue during long-distance riding by controlling the flow of wind from the front onto the rider's body.
In addition, both types are equipped with an adjustable seat that can be adjusted to two different heights to accommodate riders of various body types. It is also packed with equipment that allows you to enjoy comfortable touring, such as "cruise control" that maintains the set speed without operating the accelerator on highways.
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES Specifications
■Length 2305 mm x Width 960 mm x Height 1475 to 1530 mm ■Shaft 1570 mm ■Seat Height 820 to 840 mm ■Curb Weight 243 to 253 kg ■Engine: 1082 cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 2-cylinder ■Maximum output 75 kW (102 PS)/7500rpm ■Maximum torque 112N-m (11%).(4kgf-m)/5500rpm ■Fuel Tank Capacity 24L ■Fuel Consumption: WMTC mode value 19.6km/L ■Tire: Front 110/80R19, 150 rear/70R18■Price (including tax) $12288.49 - $12982.76
Figures in parentheses [ ] are for DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) vehicles.
CRF1100L Africa Twin <s>
CRF1100L Africa Twin Main Specifications
■Length: 2330 mm x Width: 960 mm x Height: 1485 to 1540 mm ■Allowance: 1575 mm ■Seat Height: 850 to 870 mm ■Curb Weight: 231 to 242 kg ■Engine: 1082 cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 2-cylinder ■Maximum output: 75 kW (102 PS)/7500rpm ■Maximum Torque 112N-m (11%).(4kgf-m)/5500rpm ■Fuel Tank Capacity 18L ■Fuel Consumption: WMTC mode value 19.6km/L ■Tire: front 90/90-21, 150 after/70R18■Price (Including Tax) $10344.55 - $11038.81
Figures in parentheses [ ] are for DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) vehicles.
Honda NT1100
The "NT1100" is a large sports tourer based on the adventure model CRF1100L Africa Twin, which offers improved comfort for long-distance touring.
Honda NT1100
The 1082cc 2-cylinder engine has a specially designed intake and exhaust system. It features both abundant and widely usable torque from low speeds and smooth rotation up to high revolutions.
It also comes standard with a unique DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) mechanism that automates gear shifting by eliminating the need for a clutch lever and shift pedal. It also features a "Riding Mode" that allows you to select from five different output modes according to the riding conditions, and a "Cruise Control" that is convenient when cruising, all of which contribute to a comfortable motorcycle trip.
In addition, it is equipped with a large windscreen that can be adjusted in height and angle in five stages, a suspension with sufficient stroke, a fairing with a shape that considers wind protection, etc. These, combined with the upright riding position, provide a high-quality ride on long-distance touring on the highway.
Side View of NT1100
NT1100 Main Specifications
■Length 2240 mm x Width 865 mm x Height 1360 to 1525 mm ■Shaft 1535 mm ■Seat Height 820 mm ■Curb Weight 248 kg ■Engine: 1082 cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 2-cylinder ■Maximum Output 75 kW (102 PS)/7500rpm ■Maximum Torque 104N-m (10.(6kgf-m)/6250rpm ■Fuel Tank Capacity 20L ■Fuel Consumption: WMTC Mode Value 19.3km/L ■Tire: Front 120/70ZR17, 180 Rear/55ZR17■Price (Including Tax) $10691.68
Yamaha Tracer 9GT+
The Tracer 9GT+ is an advanced version based on the Tracer 9GT sports tourer equipped with an 888cc in-line 3-cylinder engine.
Yamaha Tracer 9GT+ in action (Photo shows European spec model)
What's noteworthy is that the car is packed with advanced equipment, including the vehicle-following ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), which is a first for a Yamaha vehicle and uses millimeter-wave radar, and the radar-linked UBS (Unified Brake System).
In particular, the radar-linked UBS, which is the world's first to be installed on a motorcycle, is an extremely advanced system that assists with braking force when there is a risk of colliding with a vehicle in front, achieving a level of safety never before seen.
In addition, it is equipped with several high-performance features, such as an electronically controlled suspension that is compatible with radar-linked UBS and a new 7-inch high-brightness TFT meter that can display apps on the screen by connecting to a smartphone.
Also of note is the new quick shifter, which Yamaha calls the third generation. This function allows you to change gears by operating the pedals alone without having to operate the clutch, but the new model supports both upshifting and downshifting regardless of the situation, such as acceleration or deceleration. It is effective when you want to increase acceleration by downshifting when overtaking, or when you want to reduce the engine braking effect when braking.
In addition, lightweight and highly rigid Spinforged wheels and a lightweight CF aluminum die-cast frame also provide nimble handling. The 888cc 3-cylinder engine delivers a maximum output of 88kW (120PS) and has a high fuel efficiency of 20.2km/L in WMTC mode, and the specs indicate a cruising range of over 360km on a single tank of fuel.
Front View of Tracer 9GT+
Tracer 9GT+ Main Specifications
■Length 2175 mm x Width 885 mm x Height 1430 mm ■Shaft 1500 mm ■Seat Height 820 to 835 mm ■Curb Weight 223 kg ■Engine: 888 cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 3-cylinder ■Maximum Output 88 kW (120 PS)/10,000rpm ■Maximum torque 93N-m (9).(5kgf-m)/7000rpm ■Fuel Tank Capacity 18L ■Fuel Consumption: WMTC Mode Value 20.2km/L ■Tire: front 120/70ZR17, 180 rear/55ZR17■Price (Including Tax) $11524.80
Kawasaki Versys 1000SE
The Versys 1000SE is a large-sized touring model from Kawasaki that offers a relaxed ride on long-distance tours, from cruising on the highway to winding roads.
Kawasaki Versys 1000SE
The engine is a 1043cc water-cooled 4-stroke parallel 4-cylinder. The powertrain delivers a maximum output of 88kW (120PS) and a maximum torque of 102N/m (10.4kgf/m), and its appeal is that it offers excellent throttle response and powerful torque at all revolutions. Whether cruising or sporty riding, you can enjoy riding with ample power.
In addition, it is equipped with a large screen that protects the rider from the wind and helps reduce fatigue, 17-inch wheels front and rear that enable quick and sporty handling, high-brightness LED headlights, grip heaters, and other features that provide high comfort for long-distance touring.
In addition, it is also packed with the latest electronic control systems. First of all, it employs "KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function)". This is a function that monitors the condition of the engine and each part of the chassis in real time while cornering and controlling power and braking effectiveness to the optimum state.
It also employs "KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control)", which helps maintain stable vehicle behavior in various situations such as slippery roads, and "Electronic Cruise Control", which automatically maintains the set speed without operating the throttle.
In addition, the motorcycle is equipped with a semi-active suspension "KECS (Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension)" that uses Showa's Skyhook EERA (Electronic Control Ride Adjust) technology.
This function was born from the idea of stabilizing the body on the springs as if the motorcycle was hanging from the sky, based on the detection data of the sensors built into the suspension and the IMU. By automatically adjusting the damping force in the shock absorber according to the unevenness of the road surface, it minimizes impacts from the road surface and improves the running stability of the motorcycle.
Versys 1000SE Side View
The 2024 Versys 1000SE will also be available as a special edition model for the Kawasaki Plaza Network dealer group, called the Versys 1000 SE Plaza Edition. A special version is also available that comes standard with a pannier case kit (28L per side, left and right set) and a top case kit (47L), which are normally sold separately.
The Plaza Edition comes standard with a pannier case kit and a top case kit.
Versys 1000SE Main Specifications
■Length 2270mm x Width 950mm x Height 1490-1530mm ■Allowance 1520mm ■Seat Height 820mm ■Curb Weight 257kg ■Engine: 1043cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke in-line 4-cylinder ■Max Output 88kW (120PS)/9000rpm ■Maximum Torque 02N-m(10.4kgf-m)/7500rpm ■Fuel Tank Capacity 21L ■Fuel Consumption: WMTC Mode Value 18.2km/L ■Tire: Front 120/70ZR17, 180 rear/55ZR17■ Price (Including Tax) $12913.33 (Plaza Edition: $13232.69)
Riding the Kawasaki Versys 1000SE
As you can see, the latest large touring motorcycle offers advanced riding thanks to various computerization features. All of the models are a bit pricey, ranging from $6311.50 to over $12623.00. However, you can be sure that you will be able to enjoy a more comfortable, safe, and secure motorcycle trip.
From beginners who have just obtained their large motorcycle license to veteran riders who know the true joy of motorcycles, there is no doubt that all of these models are ones that any rider who loves touring will want to ride at least once.
