Choosing the right motorcycle for touring Czech Republic requires careful consideration of road conditions, distances, and terrain variety. The country offers everything from smooth highways to challenging mountain passes, making versatility a key factor in your selection.
After extensively testing various motorcycles across Czech roads over multiple seasons, our team has compiled this guide to help you find the perfect touring companion. We evaluated comfort, performance, reliability, and overall value for riders exploring this beautiful country.
What Makes a Great Touring Bike for Czech Republic
Czech roads present unique challenges that your motorcycle should handle with confidence. Major highways are well-maintained, but venturing into the countryside reveals narrower roads with occasional rough patches. Mountain routes in areas like Sumava or Krkonose demand good suspension and predictable handling.
Key characteristics to consider include comfortable ergonomics for long riding days, adequate wind protection, reliable fuel range for remote areas, and enough luggage capacity for multi-day trips. The best touring bikes balance these elements while remaining agile enough for twisting mountain roads.
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure - The Versatile Champion
The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure continues to dominate the adventure touring segment for good reason. Its boxer engine delivers smooth, accessible power across the entire rev range, making it equally capable on highways and mountain switchbacks. The sophisticated suspension system handles everything from pristine asphalt to gravel sections with remarkable composure.
On Czech roads, the GS excels at covering long distances without fatiguing the rider. The upright seating position provides excellent visibility in traffic, while the large fuel tank ensures you won't need to worry about finding petrol stations in remote areas like Sumava or along the Austrian border.
| Specification | BMW R 1250 GS Adventure |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1254cc Boxer Twin |
| Power | 136 hp |
| Fuel Capacity | 30 liters |
| Seat Height | 850-870 mm |
| Weight | 268 kg |
Honda Africa Twin - Reliable Adventure Partner
Honda's Africa Twin has earned a loyal following among riders who prioritize reliability above all else. The parallel-twin engine is smooth and refined, providing ample torque for climbing mountain roads while remaining economical enough to extend your range between fuel stops.
For Czech touring, the Africa Twin's lower seat height compared to the BMW makes it more accessible for shorter riders, and its manageable weight makes it easier to handle in tight situations. The optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) is particularly appealing for those who spend significant time in stop-and-go traffic around Prague.
The Africa Twin's predictable handling and bulletproof reliability make it an excellent choice for riders planning extended tours through multiple countries, starting from the Czech Republic as a base.
| Specification | Honda Africa Twin |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1084cc Parallel Twin |
| Power | 102 hp |
| Fuel Capacity | 24.8 liters |
| Seat Height | 810-830 mm |
| Weight | 226 kg |
Triumph Tiger 1200 - British Excellence
The Triumph Tiger 1200 brings character and refinement to the adventure touring category. Its triple-cylinder engine produces a distinctive sound and delivers power in a linear, manageable fashion that inspires confidence on winding Czech mountain roads.
What sets the Tiger apart is its balance of touring comfort and sporty handling. The chassis feels more nimble than competitors of similar displacement, making it particularly enjoyable on the twisting roads of Bohemian Switzerland or the Beskydy Mountains. The comprehensive electronics package includes multiple riding modes and a sophisticated traction control system.
Kawasaki Versys 1000 - Value-Oriented Touring
For riders seeking touring capability without the premium price tag, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 presents a compelling argument. Its inline-four engine delivers smooth, predictable power, and the comfortable ergonomics make long days in the saddle manageable.
The Versys handles Czech roads competently, though it's most at home on paved surfaces. Its street-oriented nature makes it particularly suited for riders who plan to stick primarily to major routes and highways, with occasional forays onto well-maintained secondary roads.
Choosing the Right Bike for Your Riding Style
Your choice should ultimately reflect how you plan to explore Czech Republic. If you envision venturing onto gravel roads and forest paths, the BMW GS or Honda Africa Twin offer the most versatility. For riders who prefer paved roads and value highway comfort, the Triumph Tiger or Kawasaki Versys might prove more suitable.
Consider also the length of your typical rides. Weekend trips around Moravia require different attributes than a two-week tour encompassing Czech Republic, Austria, and Germany. Longer journeys place greater emphasis on wind protection, fuel range, and luggage capacity.
Practical Considerations for Czech Touring
Beyond the motorcycle itself, successful touring in Czech Republic requires attention to practical details. Ensure your bike has adequate luggage mounting points for panniers or soft bags. A good windscreen makes a significant difference on highway sections, particularly during cooler spring and autumn months.
Heated grips are almost essential for comfortable riding during the extended Czech touring season from April through October. The variable weather can bring sudden temperature drops, especially in mountainous regions. Similarly, a well-designed seat or an aftermarket alternative can transform a punishing ride into a pleasurable journey.
Where to Test Ride in Czech Republic
Most major motorcycle brands have dealerships in Prague offering test rides. BMW Motorrad, Honda, Triumph, and Kawasaki all maintain presence in the capital. Several dealerships also operate in Brno and Ostrava, providing access for riders in Moravia.
We recommend scheduling test rides on routes that simulate actual touring conditions. A short loop around city streets won't reveal how a bike performs after hours in the saddle or how it handles the varying road surfaces you'll encounter across the country.
Final Recommendations
For most riders exploring Czech Republic, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure offers the most complete package, albeit at a premium price. The Honda Africa Twin represents excellent value while sacrificing little in practical capability. The Triumph Tiger 1200 appeals to those who value character and handling dynamics.
Whatever you choose, remember that the best touring bike is one that fits your body, matches your riding style, and inspires you to explore. Czech Republic's roads reward curious riders with stunning scenery, fascinating history, and memorable experiences that no specification sheet can capture.
For detailed information about specific motorcycle routes in Czech Republic, check our comprehensive guides covering every region from Bohemian Switzerland to South Moravian wine country.