Touring With A Road Bike [An In Depth Personal Guide!]

Are you thinking about touring with a road bike and not sure where to start?

Do you want to buy a fun bike to go on your next touring adventure and are looking for some recommendations? 

Maybe, you bought your bike already but you are not sure what essentials to bring on your next tour.

Or perhaps, you are confused about the difference between a regular road bike and a touring road bike.

If this seems like you, then you are at the right place! You will learn all there is to know about how to start with a touring road bike and plan your next cycling getaway.

I recently went on a coastal bike tour for 6 days with my family! It was magical! I learned what went well, and what I can do better for my next bike tour! 

So, now I am here to share how you too can tour with a road bike for your breathtaking adventure.

As a quick summary, here are the 17 Best Touring Road Bikes for your next touring adventure:

1) 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle

2) Mongoose Status

3) Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Bike

4) Hurley Adult Cycle

5) Hurley E-Bike

6) Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure

7) Touring

8) Touring Bike Riverside 520

9) Fuji Touring Road Bike Disc

10) Sutra

11) Ridgeback Speed

12) Surly Disc Trucker 

13) TX-800

14) Deschutes

15) Backroad AL GRX RX600 Randonneur

16) Trek 520 Touring

17) Titanium Touring Bike Deveron 

DISCLOSURE

Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

Related Posts on Road Bikes:

• Can A Road Bike Be Used For Touring?
• Can A Road Bike Be Used For Trails Off-Road And Not Be Damaged?
• Top 6 Best Road Bikes Under $3000 For 2022
• Are Road Bikes Faster Than Hybrids?
• 7 Road Bikes For Heavy Rider
• 17 Best Road Bikes Under 300 Dollars [2022 Update!]

What Are Touring Road Bikes Made For?

A touring bike is designed to help you ride long distances with several racks that are positioned at the front and back of your bike.

It has a strong frame that can carry the weight of yourself and your luggage. Furthermore, the larger wheels and wider wheelbase make it easy to go touring on this particular model. 

When you go touring on a road bike, it is as if you are riding a 2-wheeled pick-up truck through the mountains!

Your main purpose is to go on a tour using your two wheels. As such, it will be more durable, can handle longer distances, designed to be more comfortable for longer journeys, and can carry luggage.

This does not mean it looks like a bulky and heavy piece of the bicycle. 

To beginners, a touring road bike may look like a regular cycle. But the frame, chain, wheels, gears, and handlebars are generally stronger and better quality to handle the rigors of touring.

You will learn more about the key features of a touring road bike as you continue reading.

Pros And Cons For Touring With A Road Bike

Every product has its pros and cons, and a touring road bike is no different. 

While a touring road bike is great for touring, there may be features that would not appeal to everyone.

Pros of a Touring Road Bike:

• It is stronger and more sturdy, which makes it easier to balance.
• The design is such that your back is a bit more upright. There is no need to lean down like traditional racing cyclists, so you can enjoy the view a bit more, and protect your back too.
• With the additional space provided for luggage, it is suitable for logistics or delivery riders too.
• Touring road bikes have wider tires so that they can be more enduring on different surfaces. This means that it is more long-lasting.

Cons of a Touring Road Bike:

• It is not designed to be the fastest bike out there. So it is not suitable for racers.
• It is not like a typical mountain bike which can endure rough terrain. Hence, if you intend to tour mountainous or muddy areas, you may want to consider mountain bikes, instead.

11 Best Touring Road Bikes

1) 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle

This is a lightweight, full aluminum frame and fork bicycle that is superb for touring!

What I like: 

• It is easy to maintain.
• It comes with front and rear brakes installed.
• It is a generally light bike and easy to ride, especially if you are small in size.
• It is quick to assemble when it is ordered online. Less than 10 minutes is required for experts.
• Based on reviews, the ride is smooth and easy to use!

What I don’t like: 

• It may not be the most suitable bike for bigger, and heavier riders, who may want to carry more luggage.

2) Mongoose Status

Mongoose Status is a strong and powerful aluminum bike.

What I like: 

• Has 21-speed shifters, which make changing gears very pleasant and easy.
• It has a light and durable alloy rims, and that helps the tires handle any surface smoothly, with hardly any bumps.
• It has strong suspension, which makes long-distance riding a pleasant affair.
• It fits various sizes of people, which makes it easy to customize.
• Based on the reviews, it is a bicycle that is great value for money.

What I don’t like: 

• It may not be the most suitable bike for bigger, and heavier riders, who may want to carry more luggage.
• Based on the reviews, some customers experienced slightly damaged packaging. Hence, they returned them and got better ones. 
• Please be mindful of this and do not hesitate to get in touch with your seller if you face any issues. It can be rectified.

3) Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Bike

The Schwinn is a comfortable adult bicycle that can be used as a sports bicycle too.

What I like: 

• It has 21-speed shifters, with a rear derailleur for accurate gear changes.
• It has strong Alloy V-brakes with strong stopping power. 
• The tires are durable for on and off-road adventures.
• It is a versatile bike that is not just for touring, but great for mountain biking as well.

What I don’t like: 

• It is slightly more expensive for the beginner rider who may be price-sensitive.

4) Hurley Adult Cycle

The Hurley is a different type of touring road bike. You can use this for shorter-distance touring purposes.

What I like: 

• It has a strong 700c steel frame which protects you during bumps.
• It is still lightweight, even though it is a strong bike.
• Great for navigating potholes on the road.

What I don’t like: 

• It is good for touring shorter distances, and not so suitable for long-distance riding.
• It will not be able to handle rough terrains, as this is more suitable for urban riding.

5) Hurley E-Bike

The Hurley E-Bike is your electric bike answer for touring on a road.

What I like: 

• This is great for those who can get tired after long distances and wish to gain support with an electric bike.
• It does not look like your typical electric bike and is a more stylish-looking bike.
• It can still ride a respectable 30 miles for your touring adventure for the electric charge.
• Based on reviews, it is easy to assemble and use.

What I don’t like: 

• Electric bikes are a great alternative to touring, but you will have to plan your journey carefully so that you can continue touring long distances.

6) Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure

The Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure is a breathtaking bike meant for cross-country bike tours.

What I like: 

• It comes with a front rack, and frame back which reduces the need to buy additional cargo accessories for your touring adventure.
• The front rack can easily carry 2 panniers.
• There is space to carry additional water bottles in your bicycle frame by installing more bottle cages.
• Based on reviews, customers have easily gone touring on this bike for several months without any issues.

What I don’t like: 

• It is hard to find something to complain about this bike as it is meant for touring long distances on the road!
• Based on the reviews, there are some concerns from a few customers about the packing and slight dents the bike had when they received it.
• Please be mindful of this, and kindly contact your seller if you face issues for immediate rectification.

7) Touring

A bike aptly named Touring is meant for touring purposes.

What I like:

•  It is easy to handle because of its low-weight but high-quality design. It has different frame sizes for different body builds, which makes it suitable for a variety of customer types. 
• The frame is a strong double-butted aluminum material that can carry luggage in multiple locations for attachment. 
• It has a wide wheelbase which makes it excellent for stability and maneuvering the rough terrains.
• This is a great bike for customers who are highly sensitive to the price, as it is one of the more affordable options on the market.

What I don’t like: 

• As it is a more affordable option, this is not the best bike for experienced and hardcore cyclists who are touring for much longer distances and need a top-notch model.
• Furthermore, steel is known as one of the best frame materials for bikes.
•  Aluminum is not as strong as steel, so you will have to take note of your weight requirements, and cannot use this for heavy bike packing.

8) Touring Bike Riverside 520

This Touring Bike Riverside is another bike that is suitable for beginners who wish to go touring near and further away.

What I like: 

• Decathlon offers a lifetime warranty on this model. 
• There are 33 different inserts on the frame and fork which gives you plenty of room to accessorize your bicycle.
• It has puncture-proof tires which is an amazing feature because the last thing you need is to deal with a punctured tire when you are in a remote location. 
• You can carry up to 40kg / 88 pounds of luggage weight.
• It also comes with an ergonomic saddle which helps to make your touring experience pleasant and physically more healthy.
• Finally, the benefit of buying it from Decathlon is the excellent customer service and helpful nature.

What I don’t like: 

• The thing about buying online from Decathlon is that you have to assemble some of the parts yourself. 
• If you are a beginner or not comfortable doing this, you can check out this video guide on how to assemble parts of the bike.

9) Fuji Touring Road Bike Disc

The Fuji Touring Disc is a classic touring bike.

What I like: 

• It is more sporty in design but still has important touring features such as the wide wheelbase, and strong disc brakes. 
• It also has 7 different sizes which are great for a variety of customers.
• It is a strong bike that can carry a heavy load.

What I don’t like: 

• There is very little to complain about this strong touring bike. But it is not suitable for those who are more conscious about the price as this is a 4-figure bike.

10) Sutra

If you are looking for a bike that has a one purpose fits all approach, then Sutra is the bike for you! 

What I like: 

• It is so versatile. It is a combination of a mountain, road, touring, and gravel touring bike getting married! 
• This is an excellent bike for those who cannot decide what type of bike they need and want something safe for everything.
• If you are thinking of short-distance or long-distance, then you can go for this option! Before buying it, you can always contact them to do a test ride. They have dealers in many locations.

What I don’t like: 

• While the versatility is a strength, it can be a bane too. There may be certain features you won’t need and these need to be communicated to your dealer if you wish to customize them and are very particular about what you want.

11) Ridgeback Speed

The Ridgeback Speed is another terrific bike from the Ridgeback family.

What I like: 

• This has 21 wide-ranging gears which are excellent for even the steepest hills without killing your legs. 
• It comes with an integrated chain guard which helps to protect your clothes regardless of how many times you change your gears.
• They are so certain about their quality which is why they have provided a lifetime warranty on this model. 
• It has Shimano brakes which are amongst the best out there.
• You can also customize the size in great detail to suit your body perfectly.

What I don’t like:

• It is made with an aluminum frame which is not as strong as steel. So, you may want to pack lighter and take note of the weight requirements.

12) Surly Disc Trucker 

The Surly Disc Trucker sounds like a powerful bike with its name right? Well, it is! 

What I like: 

• It is a superb long-haul bicycle that can go on most terrains. 
• The tires are wide which makes it easier to navigate. 
• The long wheelbase makes it an extremely stable bicycle.
• There are a good 10 different sizes available which make it great for a variety of customers. 
• Additionally, the gear comes in 3 different chainrings. This is helpful when you want to adjust your gears slowly and steadily during your touring.

What I don’t like: 

• It is a lot more expensive and quite heavy. So if you cannot handle the load of touring with this bike, it may not be the most suitable option for you. This bike is ideal for the fitter and stronger cyclists.

13) TX-800

The TX-800 is one of the best touring road bikes out there! 

What I like: 

• Buying this bike is akin to investing. It is extremely durable and is a long-trip bike. Whether you ride on rough roads, pavements, or gravels, you will feel at home on this. This is the ultimate off-road touring bike.
• There is also a horizontal plane for your handlebar. This makes it versatile for riders who wish to go on cruising touring mode or racing mode with a bit more bend.
• The Shimano touring brakes are really powerful and can stop you from very wet and steep hills. You never know when you need such power in your brakes.

What I don’t like: 

• There is nothing to complain about this product except for the extremely steep price. Hence, this is a bike that is designed for the avid and experienced cyclist who is comfortable making this investment.

14) Deschutes

This is an American bike that is hand-built.

What I like: 

• If you are into hand-built products, then this is for you! The craftsmanship and design are impeccable. 
• The disc brake gives excellent braking power.
• The steel frame is helpful to absorb most of the road shock that comes, and this is great to keep you safe and protect you from injuries during your bike road trip.
• Their customer service is good too. You can test out your bike and make changes to customizations that you ordered, or other size issues if you find that you are struggling to reach the brakes or feel stable.

What I don’t like: 

• You need to pay attention to your Derailleur Cable. Based on reviews, it may not last beyond 2500 kilometers / 1553 miles. 
• You can easily counter this by carrying spares on hand. Get yours here. 

15) Backroad AL GRX RX600 Randonneur

This Backroad bike is known as an uncompromising bike that is suitable for anything! 

What I like: 

• You can use this bike on any surface without having to decide which you prioritize. 
• It comes with all the important accessories to make your cycling adventure complete, whether you are a backpacker or a rough terrain rider!
• It also has a small and discrete rear and front light, but don’t let the size fool you. It has incredible lighting power and makes you visible even during the day.
• While it is versatile, it was designed as one of the best gravel bikes for touring. So, that makes it a hardy and strong bicycle that will last well.
• The manufacturer, Rose, has been in business since 1907. You can trust their brand and quality with your money!

What I don’t like: 

• While it can be used for touring due to its versatility, it is best suited as a sports or comfort bike. However, if you are looking for a touring bike that wears many hats, then this is for you!
• But if you want a bike that is purely powerful for touring, then one of the above options would be better.

16) Trek 520 Touring

The Trek 520 Touring is another delightful bike on the market.

What I like: 

• This bike was made for the open road and has been in one of their longest-running models. It is excellent for multi-day trips to help you feel very comfortable.
• The reviews for it are very positive and have lasted over tens of thousands of miles for long-distance tours without any fault.

What I don’t like: 

• It does not have disc brakes which are better suited to wet weather. 
• What you can do is customize it and install it yourself. Get your disc brake here.

17) Titanium Touring Bike Deveron 

If you are looking for a titanium touring bike, then this is for you!

What I like: 

• The customization features on this site are excellent. Hence, you can find a bike that fits your needs, from the type of brake to the frame size, everything!

What I don’t like: 

• The price point is a sticky issue. But, rest assured, you are paying for top-notch quality! Titanium is much lighter than steel, just as strong, and double the strength of aluminum.

Pre-Loved Cannondale Touring Bikes

If you are looking for Cannondale Touring bikes, you will have to make do with pre-loved models as two popular models are no longer in production.

You can find the Cannondale ST600 here. Another popular model is the Cannondale T800.

How To Choose Your Own Touring Road Bike?

You are advised to choose a bike that uses standard-sized, low-tech parts that are durable, easy to find, and easy to repair and maintain. 

This is because you are touring, and you don’t want your repair expenses to balloon especially when you are in unfamiliar territory and not sure where to go for repairs.

Here are some features to look at when thinking about your future touring road bike:

• Where are you riding, and what type of surface? That would help you decide what kind of tires you need.

• What country or location are you going to? You must look at whether repair shops or parts are easily available there.

• How long do you intend to do your tour? If it is just a short trip, you can consider getting a second-hand touring road bike. But if you are traveling for months, then you will need to spend more for a top-quality product.

• What is your luggage amount? I recently went for a cycling tour through Malaysia and packing was a headache. 

I had to pack lightly because I was traveling on a bike and going to different accommodations. Do not underestimate how important luggage is before deciding on your bike. Here is a simple guide to packing for your next cycling trip.

• What is your body weight, or type? This is not a discriminatory question. But you must get a bike that your body is comfortable with. Nothing is more important than protecting your health.

• What is your priority? Are you planning to ride at a leisurely pace to enjoy the scenery or do you intend to speed through from point A to point B?

 If you are riding slowly, you can afford to let go of speed requirements and find something that helps your back feel more comfortable, while you sit up straighter to enjoy the view.

Take the time to write your answers to these questions. Then, please present them to your shortlisted touring road bike sellers for their feedback.

If a seller is willing to speak to you nicely and advise you about a bike that best suits your needs, you have found a winner!

Types Of Touring Road Bikes

While touring road bikes are meant for touring, that does not mean you can just get any touring road bike for your next cycling tour, right?

Remember, the section above shared the different factors you need to account for before buying a touring road bike.

Now you will be able to see the different types of touring road bikes to understand better, how these considerations are important.

1) Long Distance Touring Bikes

These bikes are meant for long distances. Hence, it is stronger, more durable, and can carry large loads on the front and back. 

Though, you must make sure that the bike is customized with front and back load holders, as some bikes come without them.

You can get this particular range from Surly Bikes.

2) Light Touring Bike

This bike is not meant for heavy touring. This means it is more suitable for a shorter distance, with lighter loads. 

As such, the frame is a bit more narrow and lighter to accommodate this and prioritize more speed in the process.

Some light touring bikes are even foldable like this particular range from Bike Friday. 

3) Long-Tail Cargo Touring Bikes

This is a fascinating touring bike that is best for families who wish to bring their young kids along. There is a large space at the back for heavy cargo load which you can place your child’s seat or portable bassinet too.

You can get this model here, known as Big Dummy.

4) Recumbent Touring Bikes

Recumbent bikes are different from your traditional bikes, where the seat has a reclining feature which makes it more comfortable for the backrest, and helps you support your neck better. 

Additionally, it is great to prevent saddle soreness too, which comes from riding a traditional bicycle for too long, and hurts your groin.

Imagine touring with such a comfortable bicycle. Your back aches will be gone and you will have such a nice comfortable ride! This is one of the best bikes for a road trip because of this!

Here are some recumbent bikes you can consider for a unique touring experience.

5) Tandem Touring Bikes

If you are touring with a partner or your bigger kids, you may want to consider a tandem touring bike. 

You won’t feel lonely, you can support one another, and sometimes, you can slow down while your partner picks up the energy.

Another benefit is that if your partner is a bit more inexperienced, he or she does not have to lose out on the experience and ride with you as they learn to cycle.

Key Features In Touring Road Bikes

Here are some important features of a touring road bike:

• Strong Frame Materials: 

This is the overall framework for the bike and the stronger, the more long-lasting it is, the better for touring. 

Steel is the recommended material for this. Having said that, it is liable to get rusty. So, just take note and wipe it down after riding in the rain. 

That will prevent rust.

• Good lighting: 

As you are touring, it is good to have lighting to let other vehicles and pedestrians know that you are approaching. 

Even during the daytime. It is safer for you.

• Good Mudguards: 

Mudguards are essential for touring bikes. It is enclosed at the top part of your tire and prevents mud from splashing onto your legs and attire. 

Imagine touring with muck all over you? No, thank you!

• Disc Brakes: 

Disc Brakes provide the strong stopping power you need and are useful in especially wet weather where things can get slippery and dangerous. 

This is crucial for touring bikes where you cannot control the weather.

• Geometry: 

Good touring bikes generally have more stability when their wheelbase is longer. 

Wheelbase refers to the distance between the centers of both the front and rear wheels. If it is too short, the geometry won’t be stable, and it may make your bike more prone to falling.

• Quality Gearing: 

Gearing is so essential because your terrains will vary during your tour. 

So gearing will help you navigate your journey accordingly without hurting your limbs or losing unnecessary energy in pedaling.

Accessories In Touring Road Bikes

Now that you know what are the key features of a touring road bike, you can find a recommended list below on where to buy them. 

There are other important cycling essentials, to make your touring adventure more value-adding and safe.

Bicycle Touring Essentials List

1) Bicycle Helmet

Besides the bike, a helmet is the most important on the list. This particular product is highly rated and complies with safety standards with the USA and European requirements.

It comes with an adjustable dial fit to be suitable for different sizes.

2) Hydration Pack

You cannot go cycling without a Hydration Pack. As you need to drink lots of water for touring, it comes with a large 2L pack. The material is strong and suitable for all kinds of weather.

Additionally, it comes with a lifetime warranty. Wow!

3) Saddle Bag

A Saddle Bag helps carry your small essentials like keys, identification, phone, and wallet. You can also attach your rear light to it and it is easy to attach and remove. 

4) Panniers

You cannot go touring without having Panniers. How else will you be able to comfortably store your cargo in peace? This particular design is highly rated because it has a hand-carrying strap, has high storage capacity, and is even visible clearly at the night.

This is because it has reflective trims that provide nighttime visibility.

5) Bicycle Locks

Bicycle Locks come in varying shapes and sizes, so this is a matter of personal preference. However, for touring, you may want something a bit sleeker and not so bulky. 

Because a bulky lock will take up more space during your travels and that will take away precious space. Also, a combination lock is safer because you don’t want to risk losing your key somewhere and struggling to unlock your bike after.

6) Cargo Rack

This rear rack is suitable for touring because it is lightweight and yet able to handle a heavy load.

7) Cycling GPS

This is a must-have! You cannot go cycling without a cycling GPS. It is better to get a GPS specifically for cycling because it can help you navigate cycling routes.

8) Optional Add-On

If you are looking to change your frame only and install a titanium model, you can consider this Lynskey Backroads frame. It is a solid piece you can use to have a stronger bike.

FAQs

Can A Road Bike Be Used For Touring?

Yes, a road bike can be used for touring. You do not have to go touring on a touring road bike only. You can do touring on any bike. Just that your experience may differ.

Additionally, if you intend to tour a nearby location, you can just make do with your regular road bike. Touring road bikes fit many purposes as was covered earlier. 

Can I Use My Road Bike For Bike Packing?

Yes, you can use your road bike for bike packing. Regardless of what bike you have, any will work! You can go bike packing on your road bike if you have strong frames that can support the weight of your luggage.

Bike packing is essentially going backpacking on your bicycle. It is a delightful way of traveling that allows you to have a unique adventure from your bicycle. 

But, you need to pack your items carefully. You need to take note of how much space and weight your bicycle can carry before planning your luggage. 

Check out the recommended bike packing list here.

Certain bikes provide more cargo space while some bikes have no additional support, which means you will have to carry your bag on your back the entire time.

Is A Road Bike Good For Long Distance Riding?

Yes, a road bike is good for long-distance riding. However, a touring bike is better. This is because they are built to endure tough terrains, using heavy-duty materials. This makes it last longer and keeps you safe during long-distance riding.

If you are not comfortable cycling alone, you can always consider signing up with Backroads for Backroads Bike Trips.  This way, you do not have to worry about navigation or security. You will be traveling with like-minded adventurers!

Is A Road Bike The Same As A Touring Bike?

Road bikes are designed to be easy to use, light, and prioritize speed. Touring bikes are designed for long-term comfort, safer due to their stability, and stronger so that they can carry additional loads.

While both may look similar to the untrained eye, these key differences mean it serves different users. You can check out this informational video to visualize further the differences between the two.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks! I hope this guide taught you everything you needed to know about touring with a road bike! There were recommendations for the best touring road bikes and the essentials that go with them!

You even got to learn some key differences between road and touring bikes as well as the advantages of using a touring road bike.

Hopefully, now you are a bit more clear about what type of bike you are planning to get and what your needs are. With this, I would like to wish you lots of good luck and safe wishes on your next touring adventure.

Thank you for reading this guide and see you soon.