...........Also keep in mind that HD is a love it or hate it brand.....
I had to stop and think about that one for a minute. I have owned two Japanese bikes and I’ve owned two Harley Davidson’s.
Three out of the four bikes were cruisers, and one was a touring bike (the last Harley I owned).
It has become clear to me, over time, that the choice of bike, has a lot to do with not only the “way” you want to use it, but how adaptable it is TO that use, and being realistic about what you as a rider, want to take on.
The folks who have chimed in so far, are right in saying that there are a number of different bikes that would be fine as touring bikes. Not just a Harley.
So it boils down to cost, “realistic” expectations, and personal satisfaction.
“Cost” Is pretty much self-explanatory, from two points of view. One is, “what you can afford,” and one is, “what you’re willing to pay.” What you can afford, has to do with more than just the initial cost, but also the maintaining of that bike. What you’re willing to pay, is determined by your freedom to spend whatever you want, and whether or not you feel that you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
As to the topic of realistic expectations, I’m referring to what you believe the bike should be able to do, and what you want to do to it or with it. Relying on other people’s experiences with that particular bike that you’re interested in, will help in that regard, along with your own previous experiences and how you apply them to the bike you’re looking at.
Personal satisfaction is not something that you’re necessarily going to get after-the-fact although you will build your own opinions as time goes on. It also has to do with any previous experiences you have had that you will bring to the table, and also making the right decision upfront, with the right bike.
I won’t repeat here, what I’ve said in other threads already, (you’ll have to look around and see my thoughts on the matter), but I will simply say that, “sometimes lesser is more,” depending on what your goals are. It is not always the biggest and best, more fully equipped bike, that is the best choice.
These days, just like in my religious preferences, (without going into detail about THAT), I walk a middle road. Neither Republican nor Democrat; neither Protestant nor Catholic; neither Harley advocate or Harley detractor. About the only thing I stubbornly can’t shake off, is my particular distaste for mopeds. (lol)
It has been my experience with cars and trucks, bicycles and lawnmowers, chainsaws and wheelbarrels, and motorcycles too, that you can buy the best loved item out there........ and still get a lemon!
If you are the kind of individual who can make only one big investment, and that investment is going to have to last you a whole lot of years, then walk carefully, grasshopper.
On the other hand, if you have unlimited resources, and you think you might be buying a new motorcycle every couple years, then just investigate what you think you might like, plunk down the cash, and try it out. You can always replace it.