Motorcycles are a favourite type of vehicle among many people around the world although things like motorcycle tyre prices in Sri Lanka can be quite high when trying to buy from online tyre shops. For those who own these fabulous vehicles, long-distance riding provides a unique combination of freedom, adventure, and personal challenge that is not possible with other modes of transportation, making it a popular activity among motorcycle enthusiasts.

Long-distance riding is popular for several reasons:

●       Freedom and Adventure: Riding a motorbike allows you to explore new places, travel long distances, and experience the freedom of the open road.

●       The Ride Experience: These vehicles offer a unique and engaging riding experience that is not possible in a car. The sensation of wind and the vibration of the engine create a feeling of excitement and freedom.

●       Connection with Nature: It provides an opportunity to experience nature and the outdoors in a way that is not possible in a car.

●       Sense of Community: It is often a social activity and provides an opportunity to meet new people and connect with others who share a passion for riding.

●       Personal Growth and Challenge: It can be a personal challenge and provides an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery.

Before a long-distance ride, it is important to perform a pre-ride check to ensure your motorbike is in good condition and safe to ride. Some of the key items to check include:

●       Tyres: Check the tyre pressure, wear, and damage. Make sure the tyres are properly inflated and have enough tread for the conditions you will be riding in. If you need to replace them make sure you buy them from a reputable supplier of tyres in Sri Lanka.

●       Brakes: Check the brake pads, rotors, and fluid level. Make sure the brakes are working effectively and the fluid level is at the recommended level.

●       Lights and Electrical Systems: Check the headlights, taillights, turn signals, and any other lights to make sure they are working properly.

●       Engine and Fluids: Check the oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels. Make sure they are at the recommended levels and are in good condition.

●       Suspension and Steering: Check the suspension, shocks, and steering for any damage or wear. Make sure they are working properly and the motorcycle handles as it should.

●       Fuel: Check the fuel level and make sure you have enough fuel for the journey.

●       Luggage and Gear: Make sure your luggage and gear are securely fastened and won't interfere with the bike’s operation.

By taking the time to perform this pre-ride check, you can help ensure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for a safe and enjoyable long-distance ride.

What are the best bikes for long distance rides?

●       Harley-Davidson Electra Glide

This is a touring motorcycle that has been in production since 1965. It is known for its classic Harley-Davidson style and iconic design, as well as its comfortable and spacious riding experience. This specific model is powered by a V-twin engine and features a touring-style frame, fairing and hard saddlebags, making it a popular choice for long-distance riders. The motorcycle also comes with a number of touring-specific features such as cruise control, heated grips, and a high-output audio system. The Electra Glide is one of the most recognizable touring bikes on the market and continues to be a popular choice among riders looking for a comfortable, reliable and stylish touring bike.

●       BMW R 1250 GS

This beautiful machine is a premium adventure motorcycle that is designed for long-distance touring and off-road use. It is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1254 cc boxer engine that delivers strong and smooth performance. It features a lightweight and aerodynamic design, with a high-mounted windscreen, adjustable suspension, and a spacious and comfortable seat. The R 1250 GS also comes equipped with advanced safety and rider assist technologies, such as traction control, hill start control, and an adjustable riding mode system. Additionally, it has a large fuel tank and long-range capabilities, making it ideal for extended trips and off-road adventures. With its blend of power, comfort, and versatility, monster bike is a popular choice among riders looking for a premium adventure motorcycle for long-distance riding.

●       Indian Roadmaster

The Indian Roadmaster is a luxury touring motorcycle manufactured by Indian Motorcycle, a subsidiary of Polaris Industries. It is designed for long-distance riding and features a spacious and comfortable seating position, a powerful engine, and a number of touring-specific amenities. The Roadmaster is powered by an 1811 cc air-cooled V-twin engine and features a lightweight and aerodynamic design, with a windshield, hard saddlebags, and a trunk for storage. It also comes with features such as cruise control, heated seats and grips, and a high-output audio system. In addition, the Roadmaster is equipped with advanced safety technologies, such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control.

●       Honda Gold Wing

The Honda Gold Wing is a luxury touring bike that has been in production since 1974. It is known for its spacious and comfortable seating, powerful engine, and a wide range of touring-specific amenities. The Gold Wing is powered by a flat-six engine and features a shaft drive, anti-lock brakes, and a number of electronic rider aids such as traction control and adjustable suspension. It also comes with a large fairing, hard saddlebags, and a trunk for storage, as well as a high-output audio system and heated seats and grips. In recent years, Honda has also added advanced technology to the Gold Wing, such as a 7-inch TFT display, GPS navigation, and Apple CarPlay compatibility. With its powerful performance, luxurious amenities, and Honda's reputation for reliability, the Gold Wing is a popular choice among riders.

●       Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager

The Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager is a luxury touring motorcycle that is designed for long-distance riding. This bike also comes with a number of touring-specific features such as cruise control, heated grips, and a high-output audio system. In addition, it is equipped with advanced safety technologies, such as anti-lock brakes and traction control, for a confident and controlled ride.

Triumph Tiger Explorer

The Triumph Tiger Explorer is an adventure touring motorcycle that is designed for both on- and off-road riding. It is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1215 cc three-cylinder engine and features a lightweight and agile chassis, with long-travel suspension and a spacious seat. The Tiger Explorer also comes with a number of advanced electronics, such as traction control, adjustable riding modes, and cornering ABS. In addition, it is equipped with a large fuel tank and has a range suitable for extended trips, making it ideal for adventure riders. This bike also features a number of touring-specific amenities, such as handguards, a centrestand, and heated grips, as well as a large adventure-style windshield and hard panniers for storage.

●       Yamaha Star Venture

The Yamaha Star Venture is a luxury touring motorcycle that is designed for long-distance riding. It is powered by a fuel-injected, V-twin engine and features a spacious and comfortable seating position, a large fairing, and hard saddlebags for storage. The Star Venture also comes with cruise control, heated seats and grips, and a high-output audio system. In addition, the motorcycle is equipped with advanced safety technologies, such as anti-lock brakes and traction control, for a confident and controlled ride.

●       Ducati Multistrada

The Ducati Multistrada is an adventure touring motorcycle that is designed for both on- and off-road riding. It is powered by a liquid-cooled, V-twin engine and features a lightweight and agile chassis, with long-travel suspension and a spacious seat. The Multistrada also comes with a number of advanced electronics, such as traction control, adjustable riding modes, and cornering ABS. In addition, it is equipped with a large fuel tank and has a range suitable for extended trips, making it ideal for adventure riders.

●       Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.

The Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. is the “boss” of cruiser motorcycles and is designed for both cruising and performance riding. It is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1783 cc V-twin engine and features a muscular and aggressive design, with a low-slung seat, wide handlebars, and a slammed rear end. The Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. is also equipped with advanced features, such as a fuel-injection system, anti-lock brakes, and a slipper clutch for improved handling. In addition, the motorcycle features a large, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a split seat design, and a sleek and aerodynamic front fairing.

●       Moto Guzzi California Touring

The Moto Guzzi California Touring is a cruiser-style motorcycle that is designed for long-distance riding. It is powered by an air-cooled, transverse V-twin engine and features a spacious and comfortable seating position, with a large fairing, hard saddlebags, and a windshield for protection against the elements. The motorcycle is equipped with advanced safety technologies, such as anti-lock brakes and traction control, for a confident and controlled ride.

These are just some of the popular motorcycles used for long road trips, but there are plenty more. Finally, it all comes down to individual preferences.