Journey Riding First Class

Summer is the perfect time to travel on two wheels, but which bikes are truly designed for this purpose and allow you to cover hundreds of kilometers in the luxury of a sedan combined with the versatility of a go-kart?

The idea of traveling on a motorcycle is certainly not new; the concept of the “Touring Motorcycle” dates back to the 1920s and ’30s with street bikes modified to improve comfort. After the 1960s, two-wheeled tourism took off, and motorcycle manufacturers began to consider the specific needs of travelers. Models like the Moto Guzzi V7 (1967) and BMW R50 (1955) were born with sober, elegant designs and an ever-increasing riding pleasure. From the 1980s onward, touring motorcycles embraced technology, putting comfort above all else — a prime example being the Honda Gold Wing (1980). In the new millennium, the thirst for adventure keeps growing, along with the luxury of traveling astride a two-wheeled machine.
-The Great Classics
Moto Guzzi V7: With nearly 60 years of history, this model continues to be renewed and improved. The new 2025 V7 Sport represents the peak of motorcycle technology from Mandello del Lario, focusing on comfort, luxury, and road safety. The Ride By Wire system effectively manages engine power, allowing for better efficiency and safer riding. Prices for this model start around 9,000 euros for the Stone version and go up to about 11,000 euros for the Sport version.
Ducati Multistrada V4: A powerful machine from Borgo Panigale, recently updated to enable long-distance travel without suffering from uncomfortable seating positions or post-ride aches. The renowned 170-horsepower V4 Granturismo engine delivers power while maintaining good handling. The 2025 updates include an ECU that shuts off the rear bank cylinders when full power isn’t needed, reducing unnecessary consumption and emissions. Designed for those who love to travel comfortably on all terrains without forgetting Ducati’s sporty spirit. Prices start from around 20,700 euros.
BMW R 1300 GS Adventure: A motorcycle suited to every challenge, both on and off-road. Its recognized strength is riding comfort as well as unstoppable performance on any terrain. It’s bulky but well-balanced, and with the addition of a lowering feature (up to 3cm lower at speeds below 25 km/h), it offers more stability and easier handling even without strong legs. The combination of engine, suspension, and shaft drive provides unique comfort in all situations. It costs about 21,500 euros.
-The Desert Adventurers
Honda Africa Twin Adventure: Honda and the legendary Dakar desert race have always been in symbiosis, and the Africa Twin model embodies that race on our roads. Launched in the ’90s, it has seen continuous updates since. The 2024 version introduces unique features such as the DCT dual-clutch transmission (the only one on the market), which replaces the traditional sequential manual gearbox with an automatic one. The electronics are top-notch, but the engine delivers a moderate power output of 102 horsepower, which Honda deems sufficient for touring or enduro. Prices start from 19,000 euros.
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S: A motorcycle dedicated to long distances and traveling on mixed, challenging terrain. Adventure remains the philosophy of this bike, and the 160-horsepower engine supports the rider in all road and off-road conditions. Noteworthy are the ergonomics and riding comfort despite the super enduro setup. Also notable is the KTM-typical LCD display, which always provides extensive information about the trip and fuel consumption. The price exceeds 22,000 euros.
-The “All-American” Ride
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic: The name synonymous with motorcycle comfort is Harley Davidson. A bike as comfortable as a sofa and as heavy as a compact car; certainly not for everyone to ride (or buy), but unbeatable on the road. Weighing about 410 kg dry, with a 1870cc engine delivering a steady and optimal output for long stretches. Known and built to be cool and country to just the right degree, it features a large radio system, plenty of seat and luggage space. Technology is present too, with Ride By Wire and a fully connected dashboard. The price is definitely not for every budget: around 33,000 euros for ultimate comfort on the road.

Options for a day trip or a European journey are certainly not lacking: classic design, adventurous spirit, or absolute comfort? The choice is up to the readers, for those who understand.