Triumph Sprint GT
While Triumph’s Sprint ST (it stands for Sport Touring) was already capable of eating big miles, the Sprint GT 1050 (stands for Grand Touring) takes things to an all-new level. With a lockable, detachable and waterproof hard luggage system as standard, improved pillion seat and built-in grab rails, the GT is about as comfy as sports tourers get. It’s good for 200 miles between fill-ups, it’s reliable and has plenty of poke, even when fully loaded with 117 litres of luggage (there’s a rack for a top box). The GT was first launched in 2010 so you can pick up an early model for around £4300 while newer ones will set you back anything up to £8000.
Another great option from Triumph is the Tiger 1050 Sport. Although its predecessor, the Triumph Tiger 1050, was more of an adventure bike, the restyled Sport is more of an allround sports tourer. But be warned – you’ll need to pay extra for all the bolt-on touring goodies (panniers, heated grips, taller screen etc) if you plan on doing big trips. Brilliant 123bhp three-cylinder motor, adjustable Showa suspension and ABS as standard.
If you prefer your engines in an inline-four formation, the original Kawasaki Z1000SX, built from 2010 to 2013, is now available at a very reasonable price. You can pick one up for as little as £4000 and you’ll get a lot of metal for your money. The SX kicks out 138bhp, which is plenty to have fun on, but it’s also capable for everyday commuting use and for touring trips abroad if you fit a taller screen and luggage.
Another great-value inline-four option is the often-overlooked Suzuki GSX1250FA. Same super-smooth, effortlessly torquey 1255cc motor as the water-cooled Bandit, with a sharp-looking full fairing, centrestand and adjustable seat. For £4000 you should get one with less than 20,000 miles, and maybe even a full set of three-piece hard luggage too; our upper £6000 limit will buy one that’s barely been used at all.