So, what about the newcomers facing the daunting prospect of their first MotoGP™ race. The history books are not on the side of Remy Gardner, Raul Fernandez, Darryn Binder, Fabio di Giannantonio and Marco Bezzecchi. The last rookie to win on his premier class debut was Max Biaggi in 1998, riding the Honda at Suzuka. The Italian is only one of five riders to have achieved such a feat. The very first premier class World Championship race at the 1949 TT was won by Harold Daniell in the Isle of Man. A year later Geoff Duke won at the TT on his 500cc World Championship debut. Circumstances helped two debutant winners to their only Grand Prix wins. Jorge Kissling won in 1961 in Argentina and Edmund Czihak at the Nürburgring in Germany in 1974 when the leading riders boycotted the race on safety grounds. Finnish rider Jarno Saarinen won the opening two rounds riding the new two-stroke 500cc Yamaha in 1973 before losing his life in that tragic 250 cc Grand Prix at Monza. Only Duke went on to win the premier class title although Saarinen would surely have won the World title, probably for many years to come.
Australia’s first smart-helmet manufacturer, Forcite, has created an exciting cockpit-view race video filmed with their clever helmet.
Filmed in collaboration with Cam Elkins of Stories of Bike, Under Lights features the amateur racing event – The Summer Night Series.
Forcite spokesman Charlie Stack says it is a short story that explores the tight-knit community and culture that has formed around Australia’s newest and most exciting race series.
It is hosted by St George Motorcycle Club over four rounds under the state of the art Floodlight installation at Sydney Motorsport Park.
“St George Motorcycle Club started the series two seasons ago in an effort to bring something fresh and exciting to an otherwise stagnant Australian amateur motorcycle racing scene,” Charlie says.
“Driven forward by a raft of dedicated organisers, volunteers, and competitors, the series is quickly becoming a crowd favourite for Sydney based spectators, and the club hopes to grow the event in the upcoming season and beyond.”
Also showcased is Forcite-sponsored rider Aidan Hayes with his Forcite helmet providing a unique cockpit view of the close racing.
He battles his way through the field from a pit lane start to end in a photo finish, separated from a fellow rider by mere centimetres.
Forcite has launched a public equity crowdfunding campaign through Equitise to build more varieties of their MK1 helmets and expand into the world market.
The cashed-up company has already attracted funding from Atlas Advisors Australia, bringing their combined post-sales funding to $8 million.
Forcite smart helmet
The MK1 helmet features Forcite’s patented RAYDAR helmet system, combining Formula 1 LED technology, audio interactivity, military-grade camera recording and a fingertip handlebar controller.
Forcite’s smart helmet is designed to deliver road alerts and visual and audio turn-by-turn navigation without a phone, enabling riders to see or predict things before they happen to avoid danger.
It also automatically records dashcam footage of multiple lanes without distracting the rider.
All the technology is incorporated into the helmet without the need for an externally mounted device.
Forcite Chief Executive Officer Alfred Boyadgis claims the helmet’s technology which warns of road hazards with flashing lights, can reduce the number of accidents and save lives.
The Sydney based motorcycle technology company aims to provide a safer, more dynamic motorcycling experience with it’s Forcite MK1 smart motorcycle helmet. The world’s first ECE 22.05 approved smart helmet has rapidly sold out every time it has been available.
Now, 1380 riders are using the Forcite MK1 on the road and track with 14,000 more registering their interest to buy.
Touring motorcycles are a special breed. They need to be strong and reliable, and able to accelerate to highway speeds whilst carrying heavy luggage, but they also need to be comfortable and equipped with plenty of accessories to keep riders relaxed for mile after mile. Today, there are more touring motorcycles available than before, each geared towards different riders with different touring ambitions.
For this list, we’re looking at the 10 best touring motorcycles for 2022, and by “touring” we mean it in the traditional sense of the word. While you can tour on any motorcycle, we’re not including adventure touring motorcycles or sports touring motorcycles. That’s not strictly true, since one slipped through the net, but it’ll make sense when you get to it.
So, let’s take a look at the best touring motorcycles out there that you can go out and buy in 2022.
2022 Indian Pursuit
The all-new Indian Pursuit takes aim at the top bikes in the luxury touring arena. It’s a dominating machine that draws power from Indian’s acclaimed 1,768cc PowerPlus V-twin engine. With a power output of 120 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of peak torque, the Pursuit has plenty of tricks up its sleeve. Based off the popular Indian Challenger, the Pursuit shares the same performance-oriented design concept.
What makes the Pursuit an ideal touring machine is the level of technology installed. Starting with the lightweight aluminum frame integrating the 111″ engine as a stressed member, the backbone of the Indian is very rigid, although not quite the lightest machine in the class, it is on the lighter side of average. The suspension package is more sporty than I expected, with a 43mm upside-down front fork and an electronically adjustable fox mono-shock. Adjustments to the suspension settings are easily made via the touch screen display. Bringing this big touring bike to a halt are the 4 piston Brembo brakes with lean angle ABS.
Indian has made sure the Pursuit has every bell and whistle you could ever hope for from heated seats and power windscreen to the powerful 200-watt audio system with Apple Carplay.
Four trim packages are available for the 2022 Pursuit.
2022 BMW K1600 Grand America
The 2022 BMW K1600 range has plenty of models worthy of this list. The K1600B, for example, is a really nice bike. But when it comes to serious road touring, the Grand America would be our weapon of choice. It’s got the bags, it’s got the backrest, and it packs a powerful punch from an enormous engine: everything a good touring motorcycle needs.
The secret to the BMW’s success is its large 1,649cc inline-six engine. If you’re looking for power, it’s got plenty of it, with 160 horsepower on tap along with 129 lb-ft of peak torque. It’s a fast-mover, and despite its bulk, it has a lot of sporting DNA. Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro, and cruise control are just some of the top features that come as standard.
There’s more though. What we really like about the K1600 Grand America are the other details, such as the reverse assistant function, electronic suspension adjustment system, advanced audio system, and touring practicalities like seat heating, hard luggage, and high windscreen. For 2022 BMW has offered this incredible 719 Midnight edition, with a paint scheme that needs to be seen up close to truly appreciate.
2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide Limited
In the world of Harley Davidson, the CVO models are the absolute best of the best and the 2022 CVO Road Glide Limited is exactly that. The best Harley Davidson has to offer.
Powered by the 117″ version of the Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin, it puts down 126ft. lbs of torque, with the classic throbbing pulse you would expect. Harley is content to let the others fight it out on the spec sheet for peak horsepower or slightly improved sporting nature, this bike is the antithesis of all that. Riding a CVO Road Glide Limited is about consuming mile upon mile of asphalt in total comfort and style.
The CVO editions have every single option that matters, and a look that no one else can touch. No other manufacturer paints a bike like a CVO Harley Davidson. For 2022 this gorgeous flamed paint job is called “Dante’s Red Fade”, I have no words, just wow.
2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT
Long Live The King! That is pretty much the sentiment when discussing the Honda Gold Wing, for many the Wing is the Gold Standard for what a great touring bike is.
The heart of the Gold Wing for the last 20+ years has been the 1833cc six-cylinder engine that produces 126 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. Yes, those numbers seem rather mundane, but the delivery is incredibly smooth and combined with an automatic 7-speed transmission it is completely unique in the world of Touring bikes. Many have offered up the trivial argument of how they would never want a bike without a clutch, then they ride the Wing. It has made many many converts of former die-hards to the manual way of riding.
When it comes to features, again Honda seems to always be out front leading the way with rider aids that both make perfect sense and add luxuries not before seen. The one key feature I am still stunned has not become far more mainstream is an airbag. Honda has led the way with this technology and is still the only touring bike to offer this level of safety equipment.
It is clear that the Wing no longer tops the individual checkboxes when it comes to specs, but the sum of the parts is where the Goldwing truly shines. Honda knows exactly what they are doing when it comes to building an epic touring bike.
2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
Although it is getting a little long in the tooth the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager is still a solid platform from which to enjoy a long-distance excursion.
Under the proverbial hood, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager boasts a 1700cc SOHC dual cooled (both liquid and air) 52-degree V-twin engine that produces 72.5 crank HP and 100 lb-ft of crank torque. The outputs are smaller than some of the others on this list, but power isn’t everything. This isn’t a sports bike. But what it lacks in outright performance, it makes up for in features.
Aside from the impressive front fairing and large windscreen, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager also features advanced unified ABS brakes, electronic self-adjusting throttle valves, electronic cruise control, a comprehensive audio, and radio system, integrated intercom compatibility, and of course, spacious integrated luggage and stowage compartments. If you’re going to tackle a transcontinental route, the 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS won’t let you down.
2022 Indian Roadmaster
If you want to buy a tourer on the strength of its looks alone, then the Roadmaster is a tough candidate to beat. It looks great, but it also performs even better. This legendary American cruiser offers big power, high technology, and one of the most enjoyable riding experiences out there. If we were ranking the models in this list, there’s a high chance that this would be in the top three.
Drawing power from Indian’s famous air-cooled V-twin Thunderstroke 116 engine, the Roadmaster produces 92 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered via a smooth six-speed gearbox, and kept under control with selectable riding modes, cruise control, advanced ABS, and Indian’s cool rear-cylinder deactivation system. Add in RideCommand infotainment, a 22-watt audio system, heated seats, practical bags, and more, and you’ve got a serious touring machine.
Aside from the standard model mentioned here, the 2022 Indian Roadmaster is available in the Roadmaster Dark Horse, and the Roadmaster Limited. They’re all seriously impressive touring machines…but they are also very expensive touring machines, so keep that in mind before you fall in love too deeply.
2022 BMW R 18 Transcontinental
How BMW designers are able to have two such wildly different yet epic touring bikes is beyond me, but they do, and I love it.
The R 18 Transcontinental is retro-modern at its finest. With the bulging 1802cc Boxer engine on display between your knees, BMW has added the touring gear needed for pure comfort while logging endless miles. The large front fender and the striking front end with both auxiliary headlights form the starting point for the elegant streamlined design. The 6.3-gallon tank, wind deflectors, floorboards, and the top case with backrest for the passenger complete the clearly defined look.
Here is an example of the retro-modern awesomeness I am talking about. Fitted below a very traditional set of gauges you will find a stunning modern 10.25” TFT display showing everything from map navigation to vehicle data and your playlist.
The list of cool items on the R18 Transcontinental is long, and the 116 lb-ft of torque is strong, but the Option 719 Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titan Silver 2 Metallic paint is simply drool-worthy.
2022 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited
Harley’s Ultra Limited isn’t new for 2022. The 2021 model will carry over with new colorways, but we still think it’s worthy of a mention. It’s one of the most advanced touring models in the Harley-Davidson stable, with plenty of bells and whistles, tour-ready accessories, tour-focused performance, and a price tag that reflects those qualities.
Under the hood, the Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited features a big 1,868cc Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine. It’s a big engine that produces a serious 114 lb-ft of torque. The sophisticated engine is complemented by class-leading components, such as Brembo Reflex ABS brakes, electronic cruise control, responsive suspension, heated grips, and a Boom Box GTS infotainment system.
And if you really care about the way your motorcycle is styled, you’ll be pleased to learn that the 2022 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited is available in no less than 8 different color options. The paint scheme is hardly a deal-breaker, but when you’re forking out just under $30k for a motorcycle, you want it to be in the right color.
2022 Can-Am Spyder RT Limited
And now for something completely different. Alright, only a little different, the Can-Am Spyder! I have shared more than a few times just how important a role Can-Am has played in bringing the joy of riding to many who otherwise would not be able to manage the weight and balance of a standard two-wheeled bike, and those who simply love the fantastic riding experience the Spyder presents.
The Spyder RT Limited is powered by the same European-made 1,330cc Rotax ACE triple-cylinder engine found in the rest of the Spyder range. It produces a total of 115 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque, delivered to the rear wheel via a semi-automatic gearbox, and kept in line with advanced stability control, traction control, dynamic power steering, and ABS.
Other cool features include touring floorboards, an adjustable electric windshield, premium LED headlights, BRP’s six-speaker audio system, and BRP Connect app integration.
2022 BMW R 1250 RT
Purists may disagree with this listing, and that’s fine. We’re in two minds about where to put this. The 2022 BMW R1250 RT is definitely a touring motorcycle, but it does have some sports touring DNA in there. Still, we’re including it because it has just been recently updated, and it’s a great choice for cross-country road riding. Whether you agree with its inclusion or not, there’s no denying that the 2022 BMW R1250 RT is more than up to the task.
Using BMW’s instantly recognizable boxer-twin engine, the R1250 RT’s 1,254cc motor produces a fantastic 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, in what can only be described as a sporty-looking touring package. Despite the impressive performance, we still say that this leans towards the touring segment rather than the sports touring segment, and our reasoning is based on the included extras.
Featuring cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, hill-start control, a tall windscreen, and front fairing, plus integrated hard luggage, the BMW ticks all of the right boxes for relaxed long-distance riding. It just so happens that you can let loose in the corners too.
Riders and fans of Moto Guzzi are invited to taste Italian cuisine and motorbikes at the inaugural Festival of Moto Guzzi on 11-13 March.
The event will be held on large acreage in the beautiful rolling hills around Yea, Victoria, just 1.5 hours north of Melbourne.
A highlight of the weekend will be the opening of the Cathedral of Moto Guzzi which houses the largest collection of the Italian marque’s motorcycles in the Southern Hemisphere.
Moto Guzzi Cathedral
It was assembled over five years by a small group of passionate Moto Guzzi enthusiasts.
It features the private collection of more than 170 Moto Guzzi motorcycles owned by Moto Guzzi doyen, Teo Lamers, who describes himself as a “motorcycle-racist”.
Teo Lamers of the Moto Guzzi Cathedral
“There are many better bikes however you want to look at it, but, to me, a Moto Guzzi is more than just a bike,” he says.
“I know the people who make them. I know the village where they live. I know the restaurants. I’ve been going there for so long. I know how important the factory has been for Italy, for Mandello, to survive after the war.
“It’s the Italian culture, the language, the food, it’s the whole package. Italians are warm-blooded. They have this passion.
“I bought my first Moto Guzzi – a second-hand V700 from 1967 – at the age of about 19. I still remember when I started it up and feeling the engine go ‘boom, boom, boom, boom’. I rode it home and just fell in love with Moto Guzzi the brand from there.
“Riding a Moto Guzzi is a completely different feeling. The DNA of 100 years is in today’s range. The bikes are still exclusive. If you ride one, it draws people’s attention. You don’t get that with other brands.”
The Cathedral’s display is set over three levels with bikes grouped by model semblance to highlight the mechanical evolution. They are also developing a library and bar/café.
The Cathedral is open to the public for guided tours by appointment.
Meanwhile, the three-day Festival of Moto Guzzi includes:
Test rides of the latest Moto Guzzi range, including the V7 Special, V9 Bobber Centenario and V85 TT Travel
A rare opportunity to test ride a variety of classic Moto Guzzi models provided by Teo Lamers Motorcycles. These include a 1934 500 GTS; a 1947 250 Airone; a 1949 and 1951 Super Alce as well as a pair of Ercole, or Hercules, commercial models from the late 1950s – a shuttle bus and a hydraulic tipper with an Ariasi cabin. All bike tests are subject to availability.
Live entertainment from Mojo Mafia (Friday night) and Stoked (Saturday night)
