There’s no question that bikes can be great fun. They’re fast, they’re cool, and they’re definitely a thrill to ride. But not all bikes are created equal. When it comes to choosing the best bike for touring and adventure riding, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Consider the terrain you’ll be riding on. If you’re planning on doing mostly off-road riding, then you’ll need a bike that’s designed for that. On the other hand, if you’re mostly going to be sticking to paved roads, then you can get away with a less specialized bike.
Think about how much luggage you’ll be carrying. If you’re planning on doing long-distance touring, then you’ll need a bike that can carry a lot of gear. But if you’re just taking a quick weekend trip, then you won’t need as much storage space.
Consider your own physical abilities. Some bikes are simply too big and powerful for some riders. Make sure you choose a bike that you’ll be comfortable riding, and that won’t be too much of a challenge for you physically.
Best Touring Bikes – 4 Things To Know
Best touring bikes are specially designed for long-distance riding. They are built for comfort and efficiency, with features that make them ideal for touring. There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the best touring bike.
- First, you’ll want to make sure the bike is comfortable for long rides. This means considering factors like saddle comfort, handlebar width, and frame geometry. You’ll also want to make sure the bike is equipped with reliable components that can stand up to the rigors of touring.
- Second, you’ll want to make sure the bike is the right size for your height and weight. When it comes to comfort, one of the most important factors to consider is saddle comfort. If you’re going to be spending hours in the saddle, you’ll want a saddle that’s comfortable for long rides. There are a variety of saddle shapes and sizes on the market, so it’s important to find one that’s comfortable for you.
- Another factor to consider is handlebar width. Touring bikes usually have wider handlebars than other types of bikes, which can provide more stability and comfort on long rides. When it comes to reliability, you’ll want to make sure the bike is equipped with components that can stand up to the rigors of touring. This means choosing a bike with quality tires, brakes, and drivetrain components. You’ll also want to make sure the bike has ample clearance for fenders and racks.
- Finally, you’ll want to make sure the bike is the right size for your height and weight. Choosing a bike that’s too small or too large can make for an uncomfortable ride.
Traditional Touring Bikes
Traditional touring bikes are designed for long-distance, on-road riding. They are usually built with a steel frame and fork and feature a wide range of gears to help you tackle hills and headwinds. Touring bikes also have room for larger tires, which can provide a smoother ride on rough roads. If you’re planning to do some serious touring, a traditional touring bike is a great option.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a traditional touring bike.
- First, you’ll want to make sure the frame and fork are made of steel. This will give your bike the strength it needs to handle all the extra weight of luggage and supplies.
- Second, you’ll want to choose a bike with a wide range of gear. This will help you power up hills and fight against headwinds.
- Finally, make sure the bike has room for larger tires. These will provide a smoother ride on rough roads.
Adventure Touring Bikes
The adventure touring bike is a great choice for those who want to explore the world on two wheels. These bikes are built for comfort and durability, and they can take you on any adventure you can dream up.
They are versatile and capable, and they’re a great choice for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to ride on the open road or take on some challenging off-road terrain, an adventure touring bike can get you there.
They are a great option for those who want to travel long distances, and they can also be a lot of fun in the city. Adventure touring bikes are available in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find the perfect bike for your needs. You can choose from hard-tail or full-suspension models, and there are even electric adventure touring bikes available.
Expedition Touring Bikes
Expedition touring bikes are designed for long-distance touring and are built to handle the rigors of all-day riding on rough surfaces. These bikes typically have a sturdier frame and fork than other touring bikes and are outfitted with a wide range of gears to help you tackle any terrain.
These bikes also come with a variety of features to make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable, including wider tires for stability and comfort, and fenders to keep you dry in wet weather. If you’re planning on tackling some serious mileage, an expedition touring bike is the way to go.
They are specially designed to carry heavy loads over long distances, with a frame and fork that can handle the weight. The bike will have a low gear range to help you pedal up hills with a heavy load and wide tires for stability and comfort on all surfaces.
You’ll also find plenty of braze-one for attaching racks and panniers, so you can carry all the gear you need for a long tour. Expedition touring bikes are the ultimate machine for self-supported long-distance touring.
Light Touring Bikes
Light touring bikes are a great option for riders who want a versatile and efficient bike that can handle both paved roads and light off-road riding. These bikes typically have drop handlebars, lightweight frames and wheels, and a wide range of gears, making them fast and efficient on paved roads.
They’re also relatively easy to maintain. These bikes are a great choice for riders who want to do some light touring or commuting, and they can also be a good option for racing.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Bike Material
The material of the bike is an important consideration since it affects both the weight and the durability of the bike. Most touring and adventure bikes are made from either aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter than steel, making it a good choice if you plan on doing a lot of uphill riding. However, steel is more durable, so it can better withstand the wear and tear of long-distance riding.
Bike Build, Parts, And Components
When it comes to the build of a bike, there are two main considerations – the frame and the fork. The frame is the main body of the bike, while the fork helps to support the front wheel. For touring and adventure bikes, steel or aluminum frames are typically used. The choice between a steel or aluminum frame will come down to personal preference and budget.
When it comes to components, there are a few things to consider. The first is the drivetrain. The drivetrain is the system that helps power the bike. For touring and adventure bikes, most will come with either a Shimano or SRAM drivetrain. Both of these brands offer high-quality components that are designed to withstand the rigors of long-distance riding.
Another important component to consider is the wheelset. The wheelset is what helps to support the weight of the bike and rider. For touring and adventure bikes, most will come with either 700c or 26” wheels.
700c wheels are the standard size for adult bikes, while 26” wheels are typically found on kids’ bikes or mountain bikes. The choice between 700c and 26” wheels will come down to personal preference and the type of riding you plan on doing. The last component to consider is the tires. The tires are what provide grip and traction when riding. For touring and adventure bikes
Bike Geometry
Geometry is the term used to describe the shape and size of a bike. The geometry of a bike can have a big impact on ride quality. For touring and adventure bikes, most will have a relaxed geometry. This means that the bike will have a longer wheelbase and higher handlebars. This gives the rider a more comfortable and stable ride, which is ideal for long-distance riding.
Suspension
Another consideration for touring and adventure bikes is suspension. Suspension helps to absorb the bumps and vibrations from the road. Most touring and adventure bikes will come with either front suspension or no suspension.
Front suspension can help to smooth out the ride, but it also adds weight to the bike. If you plan on doing a lot of climbing, then a bike with no suspension may be a better option.
Top 11 Choices
1. Trek 920
The Trek 920 Touring Bike is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable ride. With a frame made of 100 Series Alpha aluminum, this bike is strong and durable, while also being lightweight. The fork is made of 920 alloy disc adventure, which makes it ideal for taking on any terrain. Plus, the fender/rack mounts make it easy to attach accessories like a rack or fenders.
The wheels are equipped with Bontrager Duster Elite tires that offer excellent traction and can handle large bumps and obstacles. And the drivetrain offers two speeds SRAM S700 with 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, and 61 size options so you can find the perfect fit for you.
2. Salsa Marrakesh Sora
The Salsa Marrakesh Sora Touring Bike is the perfect choice for those looking to take their touring to the next level. Built with a Chromoly frame and fork, this bike is designed to provide a comfortable and smooth ride, even on long journeys.
The Shimano Alivio drivetrain provides reliable and consistent shifting, while the mechanical disc brakes offer plenty of stopping power. The WTB ST i19 TCS 2.0 700c wheels are tubeless-ready and designed to withstand whatever terrain you throw at them.
Finally, the Teravail Rampart 700c x 42mm tires provide confident traction and a smooth ride. So whether you’re exploring your city’s streets or venturing out into the wilderness, the Salsa Marrakesh Sora Touring Bike is the perfect companion.
3. Trek 520 Disc
The Trek 520 Disc Touring Bike is the perfect bike for hitting the open road. It features a butted Chromoly frame that is built to last, as well as rack and fender mounts so you can bring all your gear with you on your journey.
The Bontrager BackRack Deluxe is interchange compatible and can be used with the included size small panniers, while the Shimano M475 hubs provide reliable stopping power. The Bontrager Affinity Disc rims are tubeless-ready, and the Bontrager H1 hard-case tires provide ultimate traction on any terrain.
Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the Trek 520 Disc Touring Bike is the perfect bike for the job.
4. Giant ToughRoad SLR GX 1 Drop Bar
The Giant ToughRoad SLR GX 1 Drop Bar touring bike is perfect for taking on long rides and exploring new trails. The frame is made from ALUXX SLR-grade aluminum for lightweight and durable construction, while the fork is made from Advanced-grade composite and features a Hybrid OverDrive steerer for steering precision.
The wheels are Giant SX-2 Discs, which are tubeless compatible for enhanced performance and easier maintenance, and the hubs are Giant Sport Tracker Discs with 28h spokes.
The tires are Giant Crosscut Gravel 2 in 700×40 size, and the crankset is FSA Omega with 32/48 chainrings. There are also Shimano Tiagra front and rear derailleurs as well as Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for stopping power.
5. The Koga WorldTraveller-S
The Koga WorldTraveller-S Touring bike is the perfect choice for those who want to explore the world on two wheels. It’s equipped with a Gates belt drive, Rohloff 500/14 14-speed hub, and Schwalbe Marathon Almotlon Evo 28″ 50mm tires that are designed to take you anywhere you want to go.
The Aluminium 6061 frame with Smooth Welded Triple Butted tubes and internal cable routing is built to last, and the divisible rear fork lets you easily replace the belt drive if needed.
The eccentric bottom bracket makes it easy to tension the belt or chain, and the Shimano Deore brakes provide reliable stopping power. With its wide range of gears and durable construction, the Koga WorldTraveller-S Touring bike is ready to take you on your next adventure.
6. Kona Sutra
The Kona Sutra touring bike is perfect for riders looking for a durable, comfortable bike that can handle any terrain. With a Chromoly frame and fork, this bike is built to last.
The Shimano GRX 600 drivetrain provides smooth shifting and ample gearing for all of your adventures, while the TRP HDC711C mechanical disc brakes provide powerful stopping power in any condition. Whether you’re hitting the road or hitting the trails, the Kona Sutra will get you there in style.
7. Genesis TOUR DE FER 20
The Genesis TOUR DE FER 20 is a light and nimble touring bike that’s perfect for weekend getaways and longer rides. It features a sturdy steel frame with a crossbar design, plus full Chromoly forks for added strength and stability.
The drivetrain consists of high-quality Shimano components, while TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes provide powerful stopping power in any weather conditions. And with Sun Ringle Rhyno Lite rims and KMC X10 chain, this bike is ready to take on whatever you throw its way.
8. Genesis TOUR DE FER 30
Touring bikes are designed to be ridden on pavement, but they can handle a variety of surfaces. The Genesis TOUR DE FER 30 is perfect for cyclists who want a versatile bike that will perform well on a variety of rides. It features a steel crossbar frame and Chromoly forks, which give it a sturdy yet lightweight feel.
The drivetrain includes Shimano components for smooth shifting and reliable performance. TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes provide confident stopping power in all conditions, while the Sun Ringle Rhyno Lite rims help keep the weight down.
Whether you’re taking a weekend ride outdoors or commuting through town, the TOUR DE FER 30 is up for anything.
9. The Bombtrack Arise Tour
The Bombtrack Arise Tour is the perfect bike for those looking to explore the world on two wheels. This touring bike is able to handle any terrain, whether it be paved roads or off-road adventures. With a steel frame and fork, this bike is built to last.
Additionally, the wheels are made of tough 650b or 700c material, making them ideal for taking on whatever you might encounter on your travels. Of course, no touring bike would be complete without reliable brakes, and the Arise Tour has powerful mechanical disc brakes to ensure you can stop safely.
No matter what the conditions are the microSHIFT groupset provides smooth and reliable shifting, so you can always be in the correct gear.
10. The Salsa Vaya GRX 600
The Salsa Vaya GRX 600 Touring bike is perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight, yet durable option for their next cycling adventure. This bike is made with a rigid frame and carbon fork, ensuring a smooth ride while still providing enough weight to tackle any terrain.
The GRX drivetrain provides gears for any situation, while the mechanical disc brakes provide plenty of stopping power. Whether you’re looking to explore your local backroads or take on an epic cycling tour, the Salsa Vaya GRX 600 Touring bike is up for the task.
11. Norco SEARCH XR STEEL RIVAL 1
The Norco Search XR STEEL RIVAL 1 Touring bike is the perfect choice for riders looking for a touring bike that can handle any terrain. The Reynolds 725 Chromoly Steel frame is durable and strong, while the Norco Search SL High-Modulus Carbon Fork provides a smooth ride.
The SRAM Rival 1 hydraulic disc brakes provide plenty of stopping power, and the SRAM CenterLine 160mm rotors ensure you can slow down or stop on a dime. The Easton EA70 AX handlebar with 16deg Flare provides plenty of control, while the 3T ARX II stem keeps the front end steady.
The Norco SL Alloy Seatpost is comfortable and durable, and the Norco SL Race saddle with Chromoly rails is perfect for long days in the saddle. The SRAM Rival 1×11-speed drivetrain provides plenty of gears for climbing and descending, and the SRAM PG-1170 11-34t cassette gives you a wide range of gears to choose from.
The WTB ST i19 TCS 2.0 rims are lightweight and strong, and the Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires provide plenty of traction.
Conclusion
We have discussed some of the best adventure touring bikes on the market. We have looked at a variety of factors, such as frame material, drivetrain, brakes, and tires in order to find the perfect bike for your next adventure.
An ideal adventure touring bike should be able to handle any terrain you might encounter, whether it be pavement, dirt roads, or even off-road trails. It should also have a durable frame and fork, as well as reliable components. We hope this guide has helped you in your search for the perfect adventure touring bike.