While not on par with my dedicated "touring bikes" I posted comments elsewhere about a trip I made on my R18 Classic from NC to WA the end of last summer. My only modification was adding a "BMW Weekender/Mustang" seat. I mentioned at the time the few things that weren't optimum for long travel were addressed on the B and TC models with their larger gas tanks and extra travel rear suspension, etc. I used the smaller bags for water, snacks, cleaning supplies, spare gloves, rain gear, etc., and used my large waterproof duffle for all my clothing, shaving kit, etc., etc. My longest day was 600 miles, then a string of just over 500 miles and a final day just shy of 500 for approximately 3000+ miles. I enjoyed a good mix of Interstate and 2 lane highways and the bike was
comfy and fun and I could have ridden farther each day if needed. Wind protection is subjective, but the OEM screen was fine and the only inconvenience was having to stop for fuel so often due to the small capacity over "longer" miles and being conservative with some areas having service stations far and few between.
To each their own as to vibration, but I found my R18 smoothed out considerably as the miles passed and while I can easily find some rough RPM ranges they are beyond easy to avoid by going up or down a gear and/or a few MPH +/-. I accept these big non-counterbalanced internals have a bunch of "character", but if mine were getting worse I would double check the valves were adjusted properly or maybe a lock nut wasn't snugged and the clearance has changed or similar. Honda STs are great as is the FJR, RT, et al so if one has a preference for a V4 , in line 4 or any of the other excellent twin configuration platforms they should waste no time in getting one and having fun, but I'd have to agree to disagree that one can't use any of the R18s for long miles as it has it's strengths and weaknesses like all other bikes have.
Age was mentioned and I'm still a youngster at 66 with many sizes and shapes of motorcycles having been enjoyed over almost 60 years of riding. So for me, age is probably not a factor as to why one bike is better or not for a personal "what is best for me to ride" assessment, it's more does it talk dirty to me and make me happy when I ride it than anything else.
Great to have choices
