Whats the best 1000cc motorcycle for long distance rides?

Question

i am looking between the honda cbr1000, the yamaha r1, and the gsxr 1000. Im aware that all go pretty much the same speed and have the same quickness so im not too concerned about that, but in your opinion what is the most comfortable and has the best riding position for going long distances? Im 5'11" and 190 pounds. and yes, im also aware that all these bikes arent meant for traveling and comfort but i want the power so i dont want to settle for less. so please give me all the info you know about them and what you think would fit me the best out of these 3. thanks

Answer 1

I like a Moto-Guzzi or BMW 1000 for the open road. They are as reliable as anvils, will hold a lot of gear, and will cruise all day in confort.

Answer 2

There are better choices than a full-on sport bike if you are really going to travel. The 'Busa ior ZX14 s a better bike for that in some ways, but still a marginal choice.

I am gettingthe impression by your question that you are kind of new to the sport though. If I'm wrong, I'm sorry, but your question isn't something anybody with much experience would ask.

As for power? Even a 600 has more power than you need on the street. If you have been riding and you have somehow "outgrown" your smaller bike, then again, sorry for the assumption.

None of the bikes you mentioned would be good for a long distance ride. That isn't what they are made for. You are looking for a sport-touring bike. If you are really looking to go for distance and you want to go fairly fast, a VFR800 Interceptor is a great bike.

If someone was going to force me to chose though, I would go with the Honda CBR. They are known for being a little more sensible and street oriented in their sport bikes than the other 3 of the big 4.

Answer 3

You might consider a used well taken care of BMW. You'd be surprised how much fun they are even if it doesn't always show up in the test numbers.  

Answer 4

My advice is get a bike that you want and is comfortable for you, people on here can't tell you the best bike because it won't be them riding it, it will be you.

Answer 5

If your idea of long distance is 150 miles, then any of these bikes will do for someone with a masochistic butt.

If your idea is to take these bikes 500 miles or more in a day, then get something else.  The Concours is 1400cc and a rocket, the Honda XX is a cheaper version but plenty fast and relatively comfortable, or a Hayabusa works for that too.

Answer 6

As has been pointed out, all of the bikes on Your list are Repli-Racers and as such are not intended for touring. That being said, I know a Guy who rides His GSXR 600 to several rallies each year for hundreds of miles.If sport touring is what You have in mind, the Yamaha FJR, and Kawasaki Concours both offer the power You are after with better ergonomics. I have ridden with a FJR and it moves very well but the bottom line is get what You like and what fits your Butt best.