As a seasoned bicycle tourer, I firmly believe that a steel touring bike is the ultimate choice for any long-distance cycling adventure. From my years of experience, steel frames stand out as the gold standard for touring bikes, offering an unmatched combination of strength, practicality, and value.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country charity bike ride or dreaming of traversing continents along historic routes, selecting the right touring bicycle is crucial for a successful and enjoyable journey.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top touring bikes available and help you discover the ideal companion for your next adventure. So, get ready to explore the world of touring bicycles and find your perfect steel steed!
Image: A Dawes Ultra Galaxy touring bicycle, crafted from Reynolds 853 steel, pictured during a coastal camping trip in Croatia. This exemplifies the durability and versatility of steel touring bikes for adventurous journeys.
My Journey to Steel: Why I Trust Steel Touring Bikes
When I first delved into the world of bicycle touring, I experimented with various types of bikes. I spent countless hours researching online, devouring content from the best bicycle touring blogs and websites to understand what seasoned adventurers were riding across the globe.
My first dedicated touring bike was a second-hand Dawes Galaxy. Constructed from Reynolds 531 steel, it was, and remains, a classic in the touring bike world. However, the frame geometry wasn’t quite the right fit for my body. This experience underscored a critical lesson: always test ride a bike, especially a touring bike, before committing to a purchase or a long tour!
Ensuring the correct geometry, size, and fit is paramount before embarking on a bicycle tour.
Discovering the Galaxy Upgrade
My next touring bicycle was a brand-new Dawes Ultra Galaxy. My touring partner, Adrian, and I decided to invest in a pair of these bikes after thousands of miles of touring experience. We had a clear understanding of what we needed in a new touring bike.
Planning a significant European bicycle trip, we knew specific features were essential. We observed a growing trend among long-distance, multi-month bicycle tours favoring steel frames.
The Enduring Logic of Steel
Our intuition and research led us to steel as the preferred frame material. We recognized the practical advantage of steel: in the unlikely event of frame damage during a ride, a steel frame could be welded – a crucial consideration for remote touring.
Combining practical intuition with thorough research solidified our preference for steel touring bikes.
Parts availability was another key factor in our decision. Europe offered widespread access to replacement parts, particularly 700c tubes and tires, which are less common in some other parts of the world.
Back then, terms like bikepacking and gravel travel were not yet mainstream. Expedition bikes were niche and often prohibitively expensive, typically custom-built by specialized touring bike builders like Thorn.
A Bike Ready for the Grand Tour
We were confident that the Dawes Ultra Galaxy setup was perfectly suited for a European bike trip. Our planned route primarily followed paved roads, with any detours being optional.
The Dawes Ultra Galaxy represents a golden era of bicycle touring, a brand renowned and respected for a century. The specifications of the Ultra Galaxy circa 2011 were remarkably robust, comparable to many high-end expedition bikes of 2023.
Conquering the Hippie Trail
Given the Dawes’ robust specifications, I felt secure undertaking a solo ride from Vietnam back to the UK on my Galaxy. I carried essential spares and a tool kit capable of handling most repairs.
Deep into my journey, in eastern India, disaster struck. A braze-on – the small, threaded steel piece securing my rack – sheared off. Fortunately, Guwahati, the town where this occurred, was a hub for metal fabrication.
The Strength of Steel Frames
For a mere fifty pence and a cup of chai, a local welder expertly repaired my bike, and I was back on the road to England. This roadside repair, impossible with other frame materials, is why I consistently recommend steel frames for touring bicycles.
Gratitude to the skilled welder who saved my Dawes in India!
The repair has held firm to this day, enduring the harsh conditions of the Pamir Mountains and demanding off-road sections of Central Asia, India, and Nepal.
Top Steel Touring Bikes of 2023: Your Best Options
The 2023 touring bike market is brimming with innovation and enhanced performance. These touring bicycles are engineered to conquer diverse terrains, ensuring your journey is as comfortable and efficient as possible. Featuring durable frames and reliable components, these steel touring bikes are built for endurance and rider comfort.
High-Performance Touring: Genesis Tour De Fer 30
In the realm of classic bicycle touring, the Genesis Tour De Fer 30 stands out. With its rugged steel frame, powerful disc brakes, and wide-ranging gears, this bike is ready for any adventure you can imagine. It effectively carries the torch from legendary models like the Dawes Galaxy.
Budget-Friendly Touring: Ridgeback Voyage
For cyclists seeking exceptional value without sacrificing quality, the Ridgeback Voyage is an excellent choice. This budget-conscious touring bike offers a dependable ride, featuring a durable steel frame and a reliable Shimano drivetrain. It’s the perfect partner for extended journeys without straining your wallet.
Cult Classic Touring: Kona Sutra
If you’re looking for a cult classic that blends durability and versatility, the Kona Sutra is a compelling option. This bike features a butted chromoly frame, providing both strength and compliance across varied terrains. Equipped with dependable disc brakes and ample gear options, the Kona Sutra will keep you rolling smoothly, mile after mile.
Pair of Dawes Galaxy Touring BIkes made of Reynolds 853 Steel
Three Standout Steel Touring Bikes
Choosing the best steel touring bicycle can be overwhelming given the numerous excellent options. Here’s a quick look at three of our top recommendations for 2023:
- Surly Disc Trucker: A true veteran in the touring world, these bikes have likely accumulated more miles than any other model! Its robust frame and dependable components ensure it can handle any terrain you encounter.
- Dawes Galaxy: For exceptional value without compromising quality, a second-hand Dawes Galaxy is an ideal choice. Explore wholesalers or pre-owned markets to find a bargain on a top-tier touring bike.
- Kona Sutra: The Kona Sutra LTD represents a high-end touring option, delivering superior performance and comfort. Whether it leans towards bikepacking or sports touring is up to your personal preference!
You’ll notice that most of my top picks, with one exception, are equipped with drop handlebars.
This is a deliberate preference. I appreciate the versatility and comfort offered by the multiple hand positions that drop bars provide. Flat bars can be suitable, as seen on the Oxford Bike Works Expedition, but I personally prefer drop bars, and wider is even better for touring comfort.
bike touring proverb- the road is your friend
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Touring Bike
Selecting the best touring bike for your adventures requires careful consideration of several key factors. Start by thinking about your personal riding style and tour preferences.
Do you prefer long-distance epics or shorter, more frequent trips? Will you be carrying heavy loads or traveling light? Understanding your intended use will significantly narrow down your options.
Exploring Frame Material Options
Touring bikes are commonly available in steel, aluminum, or titanium frames. Steel is celebrated for its durability and smooth ride quality, though it can be heavier than other materials.
While other frame materials exist, steel remains the top choice for serious touring cyclists.
Aluminum is lighter and more affordable but may not offer the same level of comfort on rough roads. Titanium provides a blend of strength and lightness but comes with a premium price. Neither aluminum nor titanium offer the roadside repairability of steel.
The Kryptonite Moment: Frame Failure on Tour
I encountered Super Cycling Man just as he was starting his Pamir Highway journey in 2016. That very afternoon, the harsh terrain caused a catastrophic failure of his titanium frame. The damage was irreparable, forcing him to order a replacement frame, which took weeks to arrive. This highlights the critical advantage of steel’s repairability in remote locations.
Essential Touring Bike Components
Consider the components that best suit your planned tours. Just as Adrian and I meticulously planned and equipped ourselves for our European bike trip, you too can envision and build the ideal touring machine for your needs.
Hub gears or derailleur? 700c, 26″, or 27.5″ wheels? Disc or rim brakes? The options can seem endless. My recommended bikes reflect my personal preferences. However, prioritizing a steel frame as your foundation allows for flexibility in component choices to match your specific requirements.
Investing in quality components pays off in reliability and longevity for long-distance bicycle touring.
While top-of-the-line gear isn’t mandatory for every bike trip, if you plan to embrace bicycle touring as a long-term adventure lifestyle, investing in a dependable bike is a wise expenditure.
Genesis packing a punch with the Tour de Fer 30
Genesis Tour De Fer 30: The Premier All-Around Steel Touring Bike
The Genesis Tour De Fer 30 is a touring bike that truly ticks all the boxes. It’s incredibly versatile, exceptionally durable, and purpose-built for extended adventures. Its steel frame delivers a smooth, comfortable ride and can confidently handle rough terrains.
The Shimano Tiagra groupset, with its 3×10 configuration, ensures you’ll conquer steep climbs and cruise effortlessly on flat roads. Equipped with powerful disc brakes, the Tour De Fer 30 provides consistent and reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.
The bike also includes sturdy Tubus racks, making gear transport effortless. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a transcontinental expedition, this bike is a reliable partner.
With its comfortable geometry and high-quality components, the Genesis Tour De Fer 30 rightfully earns its place as one of the best all-around touring bikes available today.
Bon Voyage; the Ridgeback budget steel touring option
Ridgeback Voyage: The Best Value Steel Touring Bike
Finding the sweet spot between quality and affordability is crucial when choosing a touring bike. The Ridgeback Voyage perfectly balances these elements, offering a solid touring platform at an accessible price.
The Ridgeback Voyage stands out as one of the best value touring bikes on the market!
Durability is a key strength of the Voyage. Its robust steel frame is built to withstand demanding terrains, ensuring it can handle whatever roads you choose to explore. From rough tracks to steep inclines, this bike is designed to keep pace with your adventurous spirit.
A Mate’s Endorsement: Steel Value
Beyond durability, the Ridgeback Voyage prioritizes rider comfort for long days in the saddle. Its relaxed geometry and wide tires effectively absorb road shocks and enhance stability, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride experience.
Featuring a dependable Shimano drivetrain and reliable rim brakes, gear changes and stopping power are consistently reliable. My friend Tom tours on a Ridgeback Voyage and consistently praises it for its excellent specifications relative to its price.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a touring bike that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank, the Ridgeback Voyage is a prime contender. It’s an unmatched combination of robust construction, comfortable design, and affordability.
If I were looking for a steel touring bike, I
Kona Sutra: A Game-Changing Touring Bike Series
The Kona Sutra series showcases the exciting evolution of the touring bike category.
The standard Kona Sutra, with its durable steel frame and fork, is ready for any road or trail you choose. Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or a cross-country tour, the Kona Sutra is a reliable and versatile partner.
Equipped with dependable Shimano GRX400 drivetrain components, this bike offers smooth and precise shifting, even under heavy loads.
It comes standard with a Brooks B17 saddle and matching bar tape, prioritizing rider comfort and classic style. Disc brakes provide excellent stopping power in all conditions.
Additionally, the Tubus Tara Big Apple low-rider front rack enhances its luggage carrying capability. The Big Apple rack model is the same as featured on my Dawes Galaxy and offers substantial carrying capacity.
Kona Sutra LTD: Elevated Touring Performance
Designed for the serious long-haul adventurer, the Sutra LTD features touring-specific frame geometry, ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride, even as the miles accumulate.
The Sutra LTD boasts a reliable and wide-ranging Shimano Deore 3×10 drivetrain, providing seamless gear transitions for tackling diverse terrains.
TRP Spyre C disc brakes deliver the stopping power needed for any adventure, rain or shine. WTB ST i23 TCS wheels paired with WTB Venture TCS tires ensure a smooth and dependable ride.
Packed with essential touring features, the Kona Sutra LTD is more than just a bike—it’s your ticket to boundless exploration, setting a new standard in touring performance.
Surly Disc Trucker; the gold standard in steel touring bikes
Surly Disc Trucker: The Long-Distance Legend
Ready for a bike that can keep pace with your wanderlust? The Surly Disc Trucker is a true heavyweight in bicycle touring and arguably the most popular touring bike ever created.
The Surly Disc Trucker is a purpose-built touring bike that means serious business.
A Truly Awesome Ride
Its chromoly steel frame provides the legendary durability and smooth ride quality that experienced cyclists demand. The Disc Trucker’s geometry strikes a perfect balance, offering stability on fast descents and agility through tight corners. Engineered specifically for touring, the frame readily accommodates racks and panniers for all your gear.
Equipped with high-quality components from industry-leading manufacturers, the Shimano Deore drivetrain ensures reliable and precise shifting across varied terrains. Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes deliver exceptional and consistent stopping power.
The Ultimate Touring Workhorse
Surly ExtraTerrestrial tires paired with WTB ST i23 rims roll smoothly over rough surfaces. Thoughtful features like three water bottle mounts, fender eyelets, and generous tire clearance make the Disc Trucker a true touring workhorse.
The Surly Disc Trucker’s success is likely due to its wide range of wheel and frame sizes, and tire clearance options. This versatility allows riders to customize the bike to their precise needs and preferences.
Skyelander built by Stanforth Bikes
Stanforth Skyelander: The Best UK-Made Steel Touring Bike
The Stanforth Skyelander proudly carries the “Made in the UK” label, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. This bike combines exceptional craftsmanship with high-performance features, making it an outstanding choice for discerning tourers.
Hand-built by Stanforth Bikes, the Skyelander features a Reynolds 853 steel frame, highlighting its robust yet lightweight construction.
The bike’s touring geometry perfectly balances stability and agility, ensuring confident handling across diverse landscapes.
Designed for long-ride comfort, the Brooks Cambium saddle and ergonomic handlebars add a touch of luxury to your touring experience.
British Craftsmanship
The Shimano Deore drivetrain guarantees smooth and reliable gear changes, while TRP Spyre disc brakes offer precise stopping power, inspiring confidence on descents.
650B wheels equipped with WTB Horizon tires roll effortlessly over varied terrain. Front rack and fender mounts ensure the Skyelander is ready to carry your gear in style and comfort.
Elevate your touring experience with a bike that seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern performance—the Skyelander by Stanforth Bikes.
Stanforth Bikes also produces the Stanforth Conway, a sports tourer developed in collaboration with endurance athlete Sean Conway.
“I appreciate the balanced feel of the bike with all four panniers mounted – it feels incredibly stable and planted, like a tank.” – Sean Conway on the Stanforth Conway.
steel is real; touring bike in europe
Dawes Galaxy: The Ultimate Second-Hand Steel Touring Bike
When considering second-hand steel touring bikes, the Dawes Galaxy often emerges as the top recommendation. This classic bike has proven its durability over decades and continues to impress experienced cyclists with its reliability and robust construction.
With its strong and durable steel frame, it handles long-distance journeys with remarkable ease. This review from 2011 offers valuable insights, although it focuses on the Super Galaxy model rather than the Ultra.
A Legacy of Ultra-Distance Touring
The Reynolds 853 steel frame ensures exceptional durability and a smooth ride, making it an ideal companion for extended tours.
The touring-specific geometry balances stability and responsiveness, allowing you to confidently navigate diverse terrains.
The Shimano Deore XT drivetrain delivers reliable and precise shifting, ensuring you can always find the right gear for any incline or descent.
“10 of the Best Touring Bikes,” according to “Cyclist” magazine. “Our Dawes Galaxy may be the cheapest of the 10, but still stacks up against the big boys…and with money to spare for all your touring kit!”… https://t.co/yK4rFkG62K
— Dawes Cycles (@dawescycles) April 16, 2018
The Classic Touring Bike
Equipped with Avid BB7 rim brakes, you’ll experience consistent stopping power, even in challenging conditions. The Ultra Galaxy includes sturdy Tubus front and rear racks as standard, ideal for carrying your touring gear.
I often use a 30-liter messenger bag slung over the rear rack to carry bedding, a tent, and a Trekker Chair. These lighter items provide a useful counterbalance to denser items packed in panniers lower on the bike, improving overall stability.
Alex XT19 rims with a 36-spoke arrangement provide strength and reliability on the road. The two spare spokes neatly stored in a bracket on the frame are a charming and practical detail unique to the Ultra Galaxy.
the expediton built by oxford bike works
The Expedition by Oxford Bike Works: Custom Built for Remote Adventures
From carefully selected touring tires to ergonomic handlebars designed for hours in the saddle, every detail of the Expedition is thoughtfully considered.
With its generous storage capacity and customizable options, you can truly personalize this bike to match your specific touring needs.
The attention to detail on the Expedition is truly exceptional.
Designed for the Intrepid Touring Cyclist
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the frame, made from Reynolds 853 steel, achieves a perfect balance of strength and compliance. Its touring-specific geometry ensures stability, enabling you to confidently navigate challenging terrains.
The Shimano Deore XT drivetrain delivers smooth and dependable shifting – widely regarded as one of the most reliable groupsets for chain-driven touring setups.
Equipped with TRP Spyre disc brakes, the Expedition provides reliable stopping power in all conditions. Hand-built wheels featuring durable Sputnik rims and dependable Shimano hubs offer robust and easily serviceable components.
With a sturdy front rack and fender mounts, this touring bike is ready for your gear and varied weather conditions. The Expedition is more than just a bike; it’s a trusted partner for exploration, inviting you to embark on unforgettable journeys.
Tom’s Expedition Bike Legacy
I personally test-rode this remarkable machine at the Cycle Touring Festival in 2017 and was thoroughly impressed. Back then, it was known as Tom’s Expedition Bike.
Designed by Tom Allen in collaboration with Oxford Bike Works, this expedition-grade touring bike quickly gained popularity among bike travelers worldwide.
Marrakesh Express; a steel steed for adventurous rides
Salsa Marrakesh: Inspired by the Spirit of Adventure
As we conclude this comprehensive guide to choosing the best touring bicycle, we must highlight one more exceptional option: the Salsa Marrakesh, your ultimate companion for venturing off the beaten path.
Precision-crafted with touring-specific geometry, the Marrakesh strikes a perfect balance between stability and responsiveness, ensuring a confident ride across diverse terrains.
The robust steel frame is engineered to withstand the demands of long-distance touring, providing a comfortable and smooth journey.
Embrace the Journey
Equipped with a reliable Shimano Alivio drivetrain, the Marrakesh delivers precise and efficient gear shifts, while mechanical disc brakes offer dependable stopping power in all conditions.
Thoughtfully integrated features like multiple bottle mounts and front and rear rack compatibility ensure the Marrakesh excels in essential touring functions.
Microshift bar end shifters are a welcome, tour-oriented choice, and the Cane Creek headset adds to the overall quality. Standard 42mm Teravail Rampart tires suggest this US-designed touring bike is well-suited for off-pavement adventures.
Choosing Your Steel Touring Bike for RTW Trips
When selecting the best steel touring bicycle for your specific needs, carefully consider factors such as durability, comfort, versatility, and your budget.
Each bike highlighted in this guide offers unique features catering to various preferences and riding styles. The optimal choice will ultimately depend on your individual requirements and personal priorities.
Remember to evaluate geometry for riding position, wheel and tire size options, and overall bike weight.
The Common Thread: Steel and Personal Preference
You may notice a common thread among these touring bicycles: they share remarkable similarities. Indeed, advocating for a steel frame as the core of a touring bike is central to this guide – it truly is the best material for the job.
Beyond frame material, the bikes selected here reflect my personal preferences for wide drop handlebars, easily serviceable components, and 700c wheels.
As a taller rider, I find 700c wheels offer the most efficient and comfortable ride.
However, the most crucial step is to test ride any bike in real-world conditions to determine if it’s truly the right fit for you. Thorough test rides of several models before making a final decision is essential to ensure the bike feels like a perfect match.
As I mentioned earlier, test-riding several second-hand options before purchasing my new Dawes Galaxy was invaluable. It was the best decision I made, and it’s why my Dawes Galaxy remains the perfect bike for me today.
Happy pedaling and may your tours be filled with adventure!
