Two-Up Touring – Best Bikes for Pillion Comfort Without Losing the Fun

Riding solo is great – just you, the road, and a clear head. But riding two-up? That’s a whole new level. It’s shared laughs through the intercom, last-minute weekends away, and those backroad moments where both of you just grin like idiots in your helmets. But to keep that good vibe going, you need a bike that keeps your pillion comfy *and* keeps the ride fun for you. Here's our pick of the best two-up tourers that do just that – proper machines for proper road trips.

What Makes a Top-Notch Two-Up Tourer?

It’s not just about a big seat and a backrest. A great two-up bike needs to keep your pillion smiling without making you feel like you’re steering a sofa. Look for:

• Proper pillion perch: Wide, padded, and ideally raised so they can see over your lid – no helmet butting please.
• Adjustable suspension: To handle the extra weight of your mate, your kit, and those impulse souvenir buys.
• Good grab rails and peg position: So your pillion feels secure, not like they’re hanging on for dear life.
• Smooth power delivery: Torque wins here – nobody wants to snap their neck on every throttle blip.
• Decent wind protection: A screen that keeps the buffeting down makes everyone’s life easier.

1. Honda Gold Wing

The Rolls-Royce of pillion comfort. Seriously, this thing’s rear seat is comfier than most sofas. Heated, spacious, backed up with a proper armchair-style backrest – your pillion might not want to get off. There’s built-in audio, a silky smooth flat-six engine, and an electric screen to keep the wind down. It’s big, sure, but it handles way better than it looks thanks to Honda’s clever front-end setup. If you want comfort and class, it’s the top dog.

2. BMW K1600 GTL

Luxury tourer with a sporty edge. The inline-six in the K1600 GTL is an absolute peach – smooth, powerful, and loaded with torque. Pillion comfort? Outstanding. Wide, plush seat, big backrest, heated everything, and a screen that rises up like a wind-blocking wall. But here’s the twist – it still corners beautifully. If you want to eat up motorways *and* enjoy a twisty detour, this one ticks both boxes.

3. Yamaha FJR1300

The sport-tourer that’s up for anything. It’s comfy, yes – but it still knows how to hustle. Pillion gets a well-shaped seat and decent protection from the adjustable screen. You get a shaft drive (hello low-maintenance), adjustable suspension, and a chassis that actually wants to corner. Ideal if you’re a rider first and a tourer second – and your pillion doesn’t mind the odd cheeky lean angle.

4. Kawasaki Versys 1000

Underrated two-up weapon. Often flies under the radar, but the Versys is tall, roomy, and surprisingly plush. That upright position keeps things relaxed, and the inline-four delivers smooth power all day long. It’s not dripping with gadgets, but what it does, it does really well – especially for the price. A great-value tourer that doesn’t forget the passenger.

5. Triumph Tiger 1200

Adventure style meets pillion comfort. Big, comfortable seat with a commanding view, lots of grab options, and suspension that soaks up the worst of British backroads. The triple engine hums along happily on the motorway and has plenty of spirit when you fancy giving it the beans. If your trips sometimes stray off the beaten track, the Tiger's up for it.

6. Ducati Multistrada V4

Fast, comfy, and full of flair. Your pillion gets a plush seat and good legroom, but the real star is the 170bhp V4 up front. Semi-active suspension keeps the ride smooth even when loaded up, and there’s enough electronics to keep things safe and fun. It’s the perfect pick for riders who want some excitement with their touring comfort.

Also Worth a Look

• Honda Africa Twin: Roomy, rugged, and surprisingly comfy with the DCT option for smoother rides.
• Suzuki V-Strom 1050: Budget-friendly, reliable, and pillion-approved.
• Harley-Davidson Electra Glide: Sofa on wheels – pure cruiser luxury, less about corner carving.

Top Tips for Two-Up Touring Bliss

• Top box with a backrest: Confidence boost and nap spot in one.
• Seat upgrades: Sargent or Corbin seats can seriously up the comfort game.
• Suspension tweaks: Better springs or electronic systems can make a world of difference.
• Intercom system: Because shouting into the wind gets old fast.

Final Thoughts

Riding two-up should feel like a team adventure, not a battle. With the right bike – and a few thoughtful add-ons – it absolutely can. Whether you’re chasing twisties, crossing countries, or just heading to the coast, a solid two-up setup makes every ride better. Pick the right bike, dial it in, and you’ll both be planning the next trip before you’ve even unpacked from the last one.