10 Cheapest New American Touring Bikes With Over 100 Horsepower
“America, the land of the free”; this phrase reciprocates perfectly with touring motorcycles. Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle have been the flag-bearers of this segment and their classic touring bikes have always focused on torque for that relaxed long-haul rideability. But today, the American market is threading the needle with horsepower packing big bikes as well, which we’ll be discussing here.
Along with the usual luxurious, long-haul classic-vibing tourers, we have included American-made modern ADV tourers, too. This is partly because of the absence of 100+ horsepower classic American tourers (these are primarily torque-heavy) and because we know not everyone wants a hefty 800-pound beast. With the pre-requisites out of the way, let’s dive in.
To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from the respective manufacturer websites and pressrooms of Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycle, Zero Motorcycles, and Buell Motorcycles. This list is laid out in descending order of MSRP figures, from the more expensive to the cheapest 100+ horsepower American tourers.
10 2024 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide
Starting Price: $44,499
The CVO Street Glide is powered by an exclusive V-Twin, the biggest displacement engine in Harley-Davidson’s portfolio. Hardwired for the long haul, the Milwaukee-Eight 121 has notable technological features like Variable Valve Timing, oval intake ports, and low-profile intake valve seats. Other top-spec hardware, such as Showa inverted front forks, dual outboard rear shocks (preload and rebound adjustable), and Brembo four-piston calipers, further enhance its touring appeal.
Electronic features are also well-stacked with four riding modes (Road, Sport, Rain, and Custom), ABS, and Traction Control, to name a few. Add to this the over 250 miles of tank range, and this is becomes one cool-looking and luxurious American touring motorcycle. Slightly on the expensive side, though.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; Milwaukee-Eight 121 |
Engine Displacement |
1,983cc (121 cu-in) |
Power |
115 HP |
Torque |
139 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
838 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
270 Miles (Combined) |
9 2024 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide
Starting Price: $44,499
The CVO Road Glide is technically the same as the above bike. While the latter is more balanced in ergonomics for highway and road riding, the CVO Road Glide is designed to be much more comfortable for long hauls. It gets a bigger fork-mounted batwing fairing that also houses the biggest production motorcycle headlight assembly.
Also present is a higher ground clearance and a heavier weight than its identical twin. The latter would be easier to manage, though, given the more relaxed riding stance courtesy of the taller handlebar design. Apart from these design and ergonomic bits, everything else is the same, including the engine, performance, tank range, and even pricing.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; Milwaukee-Eight 121 |
Engine Displacement |
1,983cc (121 cu-in) |
Power |
115 HP |
Torque |
139 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
862 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
270 Miles (Combined) |
8 2024 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide ST
Starting Price: $42,999
This is the most powerful Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle/bagger ever made. It is also the most exciting CVO-badged machine, using the same 121 V-Twin as on the Street Glide and Road Glide CVOs from afar. But look closer, and you’ll know it’s in a beefed-up “High-Output” avatar. It is impressively lightweight for what it packs. This is achieved using titanium, forged carbon, and other lightweight composite materials. With 145 pound-feet of torque, this is a fast touring motorcycle, let alone a capable one.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; Milwaukee-Eight 121 HO |
Engine Displacement |
1,983cc (121 cu-in) |
Power |
127 HP |
Torque |
145 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
838 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
264 Miles (Combined) |
7 2024 Indian Pursuit Limited
Starting Price: $34,999
The Pursuit Limited is powered by the only 120+ horsepower V-Twin engine in the Indian Motorcycle’s portfolio—the PowerPlus 108. This modern V-Twin is a fine fusion of low-end torque and smooth touring mid- and high-end performance. Thanks to riding modes (Rain, Standard, and Sport), this Indian is adaptive to varying riding conditions. Lean-sensitive traction control and ABS also come standard for a fuss-free touring experience. Storage is aplenty via the with 35+ gallons of weatherproof remote-locking saddles, meanwhile. For $34,999, Indian also included USD front forks, FOX preload-adjustable rear shocks, a 7-inch TFT display loaded with connected technology, and a riding range of over 250 miles.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; PowerPlus |
Engine Displacement |
1,768cc (108 cu-in) |
Power |
122 HP |
Torque |
128 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
912 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
250+ Miles (Combined) |
6 2024 Indian Challenger
Starting Price: $26,499
The Indian Challenger is more desirable than the Pursuit Limited solely because of its VFM proposition. Both bikes are basically the same, but the Challenger is a stripped-down bagger version without the ultra-cozy touring bits. But that doesn’t make it any less of a capable hauler.
The Challenger lacks the top box and the taller windscreen but is also way lighter. This adds to a nimbler and sportier riding experience as the PowerPlus V-Twin is unchanged in performance figures. Being $8,500 cheaper adds further to its desirability. It also gives you more room to experiment with touring add-on features.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; PowerPlus |
Engine Displacement |
1,768cc (108 cu-in) |
Power |
122 HP |
Torque |
128 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
831 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
240 Miles (Combined) |
5 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
Starting Price: $25,999
With smashing neo-retro looks and gorgeous shades, the 2024 Harley Street Glide is a cool and capable American touring motorcycle with over 100 horsepower. Yes, the CVO version has its charm, but the standard Street Glide aces when it comes to its VFM proposition in the luxury-oriented touring bike segment. It gets Showa rear shocks with preload and rebound adjustability. Its 117 Milwaukee V-Twin is a fresh upgrade for 2024 over the outgoing 114 V-Twin. And elevating the long-riding experience are four riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, and Custom), cornering traction control, and a vehicle hold function, to name a few.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; Milwaukee-Eight 117 |
Engine Displacement |
1917.29cc (117 cu-in) |
Power |
105 HP |
Torque |
130 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
811 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
264 Miles (Combined) |
4 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide
Starting Price: $25,999
The major differences between the Road Glide and the Street Glide are restricted to visual elements and the riding stance. The Road Glide is more comfortable with a bigger and wider batwing fairing and a taller handlebar design. This Harley, however, is heavier than the Street Glide and is also 0.2 inches closer to the ground. Not necessarily bad, especially for a tourer, as it improves high-speed stability. At $25,999, the Road Glide and the Street Glide are the most value-for-money Harley-Davidson touring bikes you can buy today.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; Milwaukee-Eight 117 |
Engine Displacement |
1917.29cc (117 cu-in) |
Power |
105 HP |
Torque |
130 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
838 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
264 Miles (Combined) |
3 2024 Zero DSR/X
Starting Price: $22,995
While this all-electric American adventure tourer might have just half the riding range compared to its ICE rivals of this bunch, the Zero DSR/X is a bold new chapter in motorcycling. We got a chance to test ride the 2023 Zero DSR/X, courtesy of TopSpeed’s Guy Pickrell, and this electric bike blew us away with its impressive performance and practical range. This American EV is an underdog that has improved notably over the years. For under $23,000, it offers the comfort and touring package that a touring motorcycle needs. Its ADV credentials are a bonus.
Specs
Motor |
Permanent Magnet AC Motor |
Battery Pack |
17.3 kWh |
Power |
100 HP |
Torque |
160 LB-FT |
Transmission |
Clutchless Direct Drive |
Curb Weight |
545 LBS. |
Range On One Full Charge |
179 Miles (City) / 107 Miles (Highway) |
2 2025 Buell SuperTouring
Starting Price: $21,995
Buell Motorcycles has had quite a turbulent time since 2000. But things are slowly starting to look exciting, and the upcoming SuperTouring is one of its many cool offerings. Buell deploys its flagship engine here: the American-built V-Twin with a wider stroke. It revs to 10,600 RPM, giving it a sports bike-like aggressive delivery.
The SuperTouring is proposed with quick-release side panniers that can instantly transform this touring machine into a corner-carving machine. This is also the lightest American tourer on this list. The production of this Buell is set to start in 2024, with deliveries planned for 2025. Pre-bookings are already open for Buell’s wild ADV tourer.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin |
Engine Displacement |
1,190cc (72.62 cu-in) |
Power |
185 HP |
Torque |
102 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
450 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
N/A |
1 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Starting Price: $19,999
Behold the most affordable 100+ horsepower American touring motorcycle. The Pan America 1250 is the boldest modern Harley-Davidson motorcycle in the company’s portfolio. Besides saving the heritage-rich American motorcycle maker from doom and being the most powerful Harley today, the 1250 Special is also the most capable and versatile. With a ground clearance of 6.9 inches, an electronically adjustable suspension setup, and dual-purpose tires, it doesn’t hesitate to stir up some dirt on those long hauls. Adding to the experience is the sophisticated liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250 V-Twin with 150 ponies and 95 pound-feet of torque. This is, hands-down, the best all-round Harley you can get for under $20,000.
Specs
Engine Configuration |
V-Twin; Revolution Max 1250 |
Engine Displacement |
1,252cc (76.4 cu-in) |
Power |
150 HP |
Torque |
95 LB-FT |
Transmission |
6-Speed |
Curb Weight |
569 LBS. |
Range On A Tank Of Gas |
257.6 Miles (Combined) |
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