Best Touring Bike Reviews 2018 for Adventures on Two Wheels
You’re looking for a comfortable touring bike that is made really well and can endure your short and long-distance excursions. Maybe you need one that has a more lightweight frame. Or, maybe exclusivity is high on your list of wants in a touring bike.
In other words, maybe when you and your friends line your bikes up, you’d prefer to be the only one with a touring bike in the bunch.
Some of you probably need and want to purchase a touring bike that looks sleek and performs well. Regardless of your preferences, you’ll find that this review outlines the most reliable touring bikes currently on the market.
Note, that this is a “Top 3” touring bike list. Why? Because the options listed were selected with the intentions of showing you high-quality options. Touring bikes are special in that they are primarily made to handle rough conditions and are made to be very versatile machines.
Many choices can be the best in their class, better in some ways but not better overall. So, not many options are, will be, or can be “the best.”
What to Consider When Purchasing a Touring Bike
If you are in the market for a new touring bike, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Frame Material
When you purchase a touring bike, you will want to find one that is sturdy and can withstand heavier strains and longer distances. Steel is typically the most common material for a touring bike because of its strength and durability, and it is also easy to repair when you are stuck in less than desirable conditions.
Thru-Axles
You will usually find quick release axles and skewers on touring bikes, but on more expensive models, you may be able to find thru-axles. These axles will effectively increase the size of the interface between the hub and the frame and will make sure that the wheels stay mounted in the same location every time.
Wheels
Never overlook the quality of the wheels you will be using on your touring bike. Generally, you will want to look for laced wheels that have a high spoke count. Aluminum rims with strong and durable hubs are also recommended. Keep in mind that the wheels are what are supporting your bike, so you should not cut corners with their quality.
The following are a few reviews of some of the best touring bikes on two wheels:
Schwinn Discover Men’s Hybrid Bike (700C Wheels)-Black
- Intended for Men
- Multipurpose
- Made for comfort
- Aluminum frame
- 21-Speeds
- Schwinn suspension fork
- Schwinn alloy crank
- Comfortable handlebar position
- 21-speed SRAM grip shifters Shimano rear derailleur & Shimano twist shifters
- Front and linear pull brakes
- Integrated rack to transport belongings
The Schwinn Discover bike is classified as a hybrid in its description, but it is a multipurpose bike. Best suited for men, this bike was made to accommodate bikers with various needs and interests. It’s perfect for riding to work, short leisurely rides in the park, or long excursions.
If you plan on putting a lot of miles (i.e., thousands) on this bike, that’s not a problem. Also, note that the wide tires will keep you balanced and stable.
Whatever your preference the Schwinn Discover Men’s Hybrid is equipped to handle the rigors of your daily navigations. Rest assured that any bump or holes you ride over won’t knock you around as a result of the highly efficient Schwinn suspension fork. And you can expect fluid and swift gear changes as a result of the SRAM gift shifters.
What’s Being Said:
A lot is being said about this choice, and one thing that stuck out as a major point to discuss for a touring bike is that it can handle many miles over extended periods of time and within short periods of time. One customer stated that after 500 miles (6 months time) they were still happy with their purchase.
Keep in Mind:
You may not want to take this bike on very rugged, off-road terrain according to one customer. They stated that they got hurt testing this out for themselves. It may be best to stick to city tours.
Also, this bike is probably better suited for taller statures. You’ll want to think about this point if you like this option.
Bottom Line:
This bike handles well and provides a smooth ride. The price is phenomenal for a bike that has a multipurpose capacity. More than a solid choice, this touring bike is an excellent choice for the price.
Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure Bike 700C Wheel Bicycle-Blue, 54cm Frame
- Diverse adventure touring bike
- Alloy frame
- Steel suspension fork
- 14-speed drivetrain with Shimano Tourney derailleurs
- Integrated Micro shift shifters/brake lever combo
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Integrated bag on the frame for extra storage
- Internal cable routing-for discrete water bottle cage mounts
- More storage potential on the rear rack mount
- Large front rack (with an integrated bottle opener!) can easily carry two panniers, while the
This is a gorgeous touring bike that you’ll love taking with you on camping trips, riding to work, and meeting up with friends so that you can show it off.
More important than showing it off, this Mongoose touring bike’s features, impeccable details, and high performing capabilities are sure to please any bike riding enthusiast.
Starting from the bottom up on the bullet list, Mongoose deserves a standing ovation for integrating the storage on the front of the bike instead of the back.
When you’re hot, sweaty, and need to reach for your towel, canteen, or cell phone to call your friends and ask why they haven’t caught up with you, it’s way more convenient to keep pedaling and reach in front of you than having to stop and get off your bike to get what you need. If you usually pack multiple bottles of water on your rides, then this bike can hold five total on its integrated mounts. There is also a built-in bottle opener on the front rack.
You’ll probably want to take this bike on different types of terrain, and off the beaten path trails-so the steel suspension fork enables the Mongoose touring adventure bike to endure and soak up all the bumps you encounter to ensure that you are jerked around on your adventures.
The shifter and brake lever system won’t let you down as you make frequent or sudden stops.
This versatile, high performing stunner is a dream and is sure to give you what you need.
What’s Being Said:
One bike enthusiast and owner of this touring bike stated that this bike was not difficult to assemble and they were able to do it quickly. This buyer also stated that they rode this bike as is (all stock parts) on the rocky, bumpy, paved and unpaved terrain. Note that without changing any of the parts, this touring bike can still deliver in various conditions.
Other customers stated that for the price and features, this is a quality bike worth purchasing.
Keep in Mind:
One buyer mentioned that this touring bike might require some front mechanical tweaks. This may or may not be your perspective if you purchase this bike. But, keep in mind if you do need to have the discs looked at (buyer’s note) then you might consider consulting with someone at a local bike shop. But, overall this bike is ready after assembly.
Bottom Line:
Mongoose makes sporty, attractive, sturdy high performing bikes that are perfect for adventurous rides. This touring option is no different. For the price, you are getting a lot of high-quality options that many other bikes in this same category do not include. It offers unmatched stability and a dynamic driving system that will enable you to have an exhilarating yet fun ride every time at every speed. So keep that in mind. It is recommended that you keep this option at the top of your list for consideration.
As we bring this to a close, we are ending on a very good note with this Tommaso Adventure Bike.
Tommaso Avventura-Bike Of-The-Month-Shimano Sora Gravel Adventure Bike With Disc Brakes And Carbon Fork Perfect For Road Or Dirt Trail Touring
- Streamlined with Shimano Sora products/components
- Road/gravel hybrid bike
- Ideal for multiple terrains and conditions
- 2×9 Shimano Sora Groupset, featuring a 50/34T Sora crankset and 11x30T Sora cassette
- Tommaso TC-30D rims
- Wide 32c tires
- Tektro Lyra disc brakes
- Compact frame
- Handlebars are sturdy but won’t leave your hands hurting after a long ride
- The manufacturer requires (recommends) professional assembly
The Tommaso Adventure Bike was made by a company that is committed to streamlining parts and components so that the bike lasts you much longer. Since the 80s Tommaso has been making some of the best bikes for all types of riders. You’ll note that this touring bike is “Bike of the Month.”
This touring bike comes equipped with high-quality, high performing parts and components. It was built to withstand multiple terrains, without compromising extreme comfort and style.
The frame is compact, making it ideal for back rack transport. Owning a touring bike means that you’ll probably want to pack it up and take it with you on family trips, and long vacations.
The wide tires offer stability and security for all of your off-road adventures and travels. Even better, the powerful braking system enables you to brake in all types of weather conditions. So, if you get caught in the rain, you can feel safe knowing that the brakes are secure and can handle sudden stops. This is perfect because nobody wants to spin out of control on slick roads.
What’s Being Said:
One buyer stated that they really like this bike and noted that the parts and premium features make riding this touring bike an enjoyable experience. This buyer also stated that this would be a good bike for someone new to biking because of the more than affordable price.
Keep in Mind:
Tommaso is big on quality assurance and performance, so they will only honor warranties if your bike is professionally assembled prior to your first ride.
If you’re serious about this purchase and don’t mind taking this step, then go ahead. This is a great bike, and it will be worth it, in the long run, having an expert put it together and guide you through the best way to maintain it.
Bottom Line:
This Tommaso Adventure Touring road bike offers safety, efficiency, and comfort. If you purchase this touring bike, you can feel confident knowing that the manufacturer cares about the products they produce. There are major benefits to owning a bike from a company with a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality products without compromise.
In closing, this review has outlined the three best touring adventure bikes on the market. Each offers something different, and yet you can see the similarities between them.
But, when making your final decision consider why they were chosen specifically.
The first choice listed (Schwinn) is probably the most economical in its class. It is a well-known brand in the biking industry, so you know you’d be getting a touring bike from a company that truly knows bikes and understands what people want in a bike.
The second Mongoose touring option is definitely one of the best in the bunch. This one has all the extra details that most bike owners wish they had included in their initial purchase. It is a high performing touring bike that handles various terrains, and it is very attractive.
The last choice outlined is another great option but is also at the highest price point. As previously stated, the company that made this bike is uncompromising when it comes to quality and safety. They’re looking out for your best interest essentially by “requiring” you to have your bike professionally assembled. So, try not to look at that strong recommendation and warranty contingency as a negative. It is actually a commendable selling point that indicates that this company has integrity.
With that being said, you have a small bunch of quality touring bikes to choose from. Hopefully, this review makes your decision easier.
Have a fun and safe ride.
