Honda recently launched its 2019 line-up of CBU (completely built unit) models for India which brought the new Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT to our shores. The premium touring machine has been priced at Rs 27.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). In case you are willing to spend that much, here are some alternatives worth considering.
Starting with similar touring bikes, BMW’s K 1600 GTL and K 1600 B are the closest competitors of the Honda and are priced at Rs 28.30 lakh and Rs 28.10 lakh, respectively. While the GTL is a proper touring machine with bigger rear seat and a tail storage box, the K 1600 B is its bagger version with sportier rear section and smaller seat. Both bikes are powered by a 1649cc, six-cylinder engine that produces 155.9bhp on the B version and 158bhp on the GTL. Torque figures are the same at 175Nm.
One can also consider the Indian Chief Vintage, another machine suitable for long hauls. Priced at Rs 25.32 lakh, it’s a vintage-styled cruiser that is propelled by a 1811cc engine that produces 138.9Nm of torque. A more exotic option from the same brand is the Chieftain Dark Horse which gets more touring oriented features such as a Bluetooth audio system. It uses the same engine as the Chief Vintage but delivers higher torque at 161Nm. It retails for Rs 29.99 lakh.
A faired touring machine exists in the Moto Guzzi’s portfolio as well, known as the MGX-21. It gets unique styling and the all-black colour scheme makes it look modern. It is powered by a 1380cc, twin-cylinder, 96bhp, 121Nm powerplant and, is priced at Rs 27 lakh. Harley-Davidsons’ Road King is another potent tourer which retails at Rs 25.22 lakh. It gets a 1745cc, Milwaukee-Eight, V-twin engine that churns out 150Nm of torque at 3250rpm.
For the riders who want go touring in a sporty way, Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE is a sports tourer priced at Rs 26.80 lakh. This is a more touring-centric version of the standard H2 SX. The motorcycle gets a 998cc, four-cylinder engine that churns out a hefty 194bhp and 137Nm. However, if touring is not on your agenda, this price segment also consists of two sportsbikes. Firstly, the modern Ducati Panigale V4 S which gets the price tag of Rs 25.29 lakh. It is powered by a 1103cc, four-cylinder, motor that is good for 208bhp and 124Nm. Second on this list is the MV Agusta F4 which gets a 998cc, four-cylinder engine that generates 192bhp and 110Nm of torque. It comes for Rs 26.12 lakh.
(all prices are ex-showroom, Mumbai)
