Pedal to the Metal: Top 10 Fuel-Efficient Bikes for the Long Haul

The "range" of a motorcycle is very important for comfortable long-distance touring. If the range is short, you may be forced to refuel frequently, which may ruin the overall enjoyment of the tour.

If the range is long, you will be free to choose the route to your destination, and you will be able to save a lot of time and effort in finding a gas station.

For example, if you choose a motorcycle with a long range, you will not have to worry about the distance to the next gas station even when riding in a vast area like Hokkaido.

On the other hand, if you have a motorcycle with a short range, you may not be able to find a gas station while touring in mountainous areas or rural areas, which may make you feel anxious.

In this article, we will introduce motorcycles with excellent "range" in a ranking format. *This ranking was created based on the latest motorcycle album of Motorcyclist.

1st Place | BMW R1250GS Adventure (630km)

Source: BMW

Range on a Full Tank of Gas: 630km

BMW's R1250GS Adventure is a popular model that continues to be sold even after the new R1300GS has been released.

Its cruising range is the best, beating out the new R1300GS Adventure! It can travel up to 630km on a full tank of fuel. From long-distance touring to off-road driving, you can enjoy it in any terrain and environment.

The 1,254cc horizontally opposed engine uses a variable valve timing mechanism called "Shift Cam" to deliver smooth and powerful torque from low to high rpm.

The large 30L fuel tank and the excellent wind protection of the large screen make it extremely comfortable to ride long distances. The design combines durability and functionality, making it a bike that will stimulate your sense of adventure.

Item Details
Model R1250GS Adventure
Engine Displacement 1,254 cc
Overall Length 2,190 mm
Overall Height 1,530 mm (1,490 mm with Low-down Suspension)
Overall Width 980 mm
Seat Height 890 - 910 mm
Maximum Output 100 kW (136 PS) / 7,750 rpm
Maximum Torque 143 Nm / 6,250 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 21.0 km/L
Tank Capacity 30 L
Vehicle Weight 278 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (including 10% Consumption Tax) $21484.36 ~

2nd place | BMW R1300GS Adventure (612km)

Source: BMW

The BMW R1300GS Adventure, which went on sale in November 2024, has undergone significant changes from the previous model R1250GS.

One notable feature is the adaptive vehicle height control system. When you start riding, the vehicle height is automatically raised by 30 mm, and when you stop, the vehicle height automatically returns to its original position, making it easy to get on and off.

In addition, the optional Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) can be equipped, allowing you to shift gears without operating the clutch. (Can be driven with an automatic transmission license)

With better foot reach and further automation, a wider range of riders can now enjoy adventure motorcycles.

Item Details
Model R1300GS Adventure
Engine Displacement 1,300 cc
Length 2,280 mm
Height 1,540 mm
Width 1,012 mm
Seat Height 840 – 870 mm (with Adaptive Height Control Comfort)
Maximum Output 107 kW (145 PS) / 7,750 rpm
Maximum Torque 149 Nm / 6,500 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 20.4 km/L
Tank Capacity 30 L
Vehicle Weight 284 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Including 10% Consumption Tax) $23195.32~

3rd Place | Suzuki Gixxer 150 (600km)

Source: SUZUKI

 

The Suzuki Gixxer 150 is a 150cc class road sports motorcycle with excellent cost performance.

Equipped with a 154cc air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder engine, it delivers a maximum output of 13PS and a maximum torque of 14Nm. Combined with a lightweight vehicle weight of 139kg, it offers powerful acceleration even at low speeds.

In addition, it has a high fuel efficiency of 50km/L in WMTC mode, making it economical.

As it is in the 150cc class, it can also be driven on the highway. Its well-balanced combination of sporty and sophisticated design and practicality is its appeal.

Item Details
Model Name Gixxer 150
Engine Displacement 154 cc
Overall Length 2,020 mm
Overall Height 1,035 mm
Overall Width 800 mm
Seat Height 795 mm
Maximum Output 9.6 kW (13 PS) / 8,000 rpm
Maximum Torque 13 Nm (1.3 kgfm) / 5,750 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 50.0 km/L
Tank Capacity 12 L
Vehicle Weight 139 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Including 10% Consumption tax) $2677.72

4th place | Honda GB350/GB350S (591.1km)

Source: HONDA

Range Per Tank: 591.1km

Honda's GB350 and GB350S are popular road sports motorcycles that combine retro design with modern performance.

Both are equipped with a 348cc air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum output of 20PS and a maximum torque of 29Nm. The low-rpm torque and smooth acceleration feel are appealing.

The fuel economy is 39.4km/L in WMTC mode, making it economical and ideal for touring.

The GB350 features a classic style, and its relaxed upright riding position and 800mm seat height make it easy to handle for a wide range of riders.

On the other hand, the GB350S is a model that adds a sporty touch, and the dedicated seat and low handlebars allow for aggressive riding.

Item Details
Model Name GB350 [S]
Engine Displacement 348 cc
Overall Length 2,180 [2,175] mm
Overall Height 1,105 [1,100] mm
Overall Width 790 [780] mm
Seat Height 800 mm
Maximum Output 15 kW (20 PS) / 5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque 29 Nm (3.0 kgfm) / 3,000 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 39.4 km/L
Tank Capacity 15 L
Vehicle Weight 179 [178] kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Including 10% Consumption Tax) $3901.82 [$4207.85]

5th place | Honda GB350C (586.7km)

Source: HONDA

 

Range on a Full Tank of Gasoline: 586.7km

Honda's GB350C is a classically styled road sports model released on October 10, 2024.

Developed with the concept of "The Standard Classical Motorcycle," it inherits the characteristics of the GB350 series while featuring a design that gives a more solid and classical impression.

In terms of design, it features front fork covers and headlight covers in the same color as the body, a separate type seat, and a horizontally-based muffler, emphasizing the low and wide proportions.

In addition, the large front and rear fenders further enhance the classical atmosphere.

Item Details
Model GB350 C
Engine Displacement 348 cc
Overall Length 2,205 mm
Overall Height 1,105 mm
Overall Width 790 mm
Seat Height 800 mm
Maximum Output 15 kW (20 PS) / 5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque 29 Nm (3.0 kgfm) / 3,000 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 38.6 km/L
Tank Capacity 15 L
Vehicle Weight 186 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (including 10% Consumption Tax) $4651.58

 

6th place｜KTM RC125 (565.8km)

Source: KTM

 

Range on a Full Tank of Gasoline: 565.8km

The KTM RC125 is a popular 125cc class sports bike that has the appearance of a large bike and high-quality equipment, but is easy for beginners to handle.

Equipped with a 124.7cc water-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder engine, it delivers a maximum output of 15PS/10,000rpm and a maximum torque of 12Nm/7,500rpm.

Combined with a lightweight body (vehicle weight 159kg), you can enjoy agile handling and sharp acceleration. It is a full-fledged sports bike that can be enjoyed by a wide range of riders, from beginners to veterans.

Item Details
Model Name RC125
Engine Displacement 124.7 cc
Overall Length - mm
Overall Height - mm
Overall Width - mm
Seat Height 824 mm
Maximum Output 11 kW (15 PS) / 10,000 rpm
Maximum Torque 12 Nm (1.22 kgfm) / 7,500 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 41.3 km/L
Tank Capacity 13.7 L
Vehicle Weight 147 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (including 10% consumption tax) $4520.83~

 

7th place | Benelli TRK251 (563.4km)

Source: BENELLI

Range on a Full Tank of Gasoline: 563.4km

The TRK251 is an adventure touring model manufactured by Benelli, a long-established Italian manufacturer.

Although the model name has 251 in it, the engine is a 249cc water-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It delivers a maximum output of 19kW (approximately 25.8PS)/9,250rpm and a maximum torque of 21.1Nm/8,000rpm.

The vehicle weighs 176kg and has a seat height of 800mm, making it a relatively compact design for an adventure bike. This improves foot reach and makes it a model suitable for a wide range of riders.

This is an entry-level adventure tourer that combines ease of handling and comfort.

Item Details
Model TRK251
Engine Displacement 249 cc
Overall Length 2,070 mm
Overall Height 1,300 mm
Overall Width 840 mm
Seat Height 800 mm
Maximum Output 19 kW (25.8 PS) / 9,250 rpm
Maximum Torque 21.1 Nm (2.15 kgfm) / 8,000 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC Mode Value) 31.3 km/L
Tank Capacity 18 L
Vehicle Weight 176 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Including 10% Consumption Tax) $4513.87

8th place | Brixton Felsberg 125 (560km)

Source: Brixton

 

Range on a Full Tank of Gasoline: 560km

Brixton is an original brand created by the Austrian KSR Group. It debuted at EICMA in 2018. Its branding is based on the image of the UK, which is respected by today's young people.

The Brixton Felsberg 125 is a stylish street scrambler style bike that combines classic and modern.

The engine is made by Suzuki and has a maximum output of 11PS/9,000rpm and a maximum torque of 9.7Nm/6,500rpm. It has power characteristics that are easy to handle for city riding and light touring.

 

Item Details
Model Name: Felsberg 125
Engine Displacement: 124 cc
Overall Length: 2,020 mm
Overall Height: 1,105 mm
Overall Width: 850 mm
Seat Height: 800 mm
Maximum Output: 8.2 kW (11.1 PS) / 9,000 rpm
Maximum torque: 9.7 Nm (0.99 kgfm) / 6,500 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC Mode Value): 40 km/L
Tank Capacity: 14 L
Vehicle Weight: 134 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Including 10% Consumption Tax): $3547.11

8th place | Brixton Sunray 125 (560km)

Source: Brixton

Range on a Full Tank of Gas: 560km

The Brixton Sunray 125 is a 125cc class neo-retro bike with a cafe racer style.

Equipped with a 124cc air-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder engine, it delivers a maximum output of 11PS/9,000rpm and a maximum torque of 9.7Nm/6,500rpm.

The classic design is eye-catching, with a round LED headlight, slim tank, low separate handlebars, and a single-seat style seat, creating a cafe racer-like atmosphere.

Item Details
Model Sunray 125
Engine Displacement 124 cc
Overall Length 2,020 mm
Overall Height 1,060 mm
Overall Width 760 mm
Seat Height 800 mm
Maximum Output 8.2 kW (11.1 PS) / 9,000 rpm
Maximum Torque 9.7 Nm (0.99 kgfm) / 6,500 rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC Mode Value) 40 km/L
Tank Capacity 14 L
Vehicle Weight 134 kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (including 10% Consumption Tax) $3748.81

10th place｜KTM 125DUKE (553.4km)

Source: KTM

 

Range on a Full Tank of Gasoline: 553.4km

The KTM 125 DUKE is a 125cc class street motorcycle that inherits the DNA of KTM's "naked sports".

Equipped with a 124.7cc water-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder engine, it delivers a maximum output of 15PS/10,000rpm and a maximum torque of 12Nm/7,500rpm. It boasts the best power in its class and sharp acceleration performance.

With a lightweight body (vehicle weight 143kg) and sharp handling, you can enjoy a light ride from city riding to winding roads. The seat height is 830mm, and the riding position is sporty.

The KTM 125 DUKE has high performance and high quality that you wouldn't expect from a 125cc motorcycle, making it the perfect entry-level model for riders who want to enjoy serious riding.

Item Details
Model Name 125DUKE
Engine Displacement 124.7cc
Overall Length - mm
Overall Height - mm
Overall Width - mm
Seat Height 830mm
Maximum Output 11kW <15PS> / 10,000rpm
Maximum Torque 12Nm<1.22kgfm> / 7,500rpm
Fuel Economy (WMTC mode value) 41.3km/L
Tank Capacity 13.4L
Vehicle Weight 143kg
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Including 10% Consumption Tax) $4486.05

 

 

 

 

 

See BMW R1250GS Parts & Accessories Page
See BMW R1300GS Parts & Accessories Page
See SUZUKI Moto Index Page
See BMW Moto Index Page
See KTM Moto Index Page
See HONDA Moto Index Page
See HONDA GB350 Parts & Accessories Page
See KTM RC125 Parts & Accessories Page