If I ever get to check the cross-country by bike thing off my bucket list it will be with an SUV pulling an enclosed motorcycle trailer with room for at least two large cruisers. Some might think that is a cop-out or not the way to do it, but, for me, now into my seventh decade on the planet and my fifth decade in the saddle, it's the only way I would consider getting it done. Since I have nothing to prove to anyone, having the comfort and convenience options that this will afford, suits me to a tee. My "Then Came Bronson" days are in the rearview mirror, so a more comfortable and leisurely trip is the order of the day.
At my stage in the game, I have no interest at all in riding across boring or desolate stretches of highway, on dangerous or overcrowded roads or through wet and otherwise inclement weather. The trailer can double as a camper whenever the conditions won't allow for pitching a tent in a good campsite or, should I feel the need for more creature comfort, such as a nice hotel room, I won't have to fret about the security or exposure of my ride. When I get to any destination that I want to enjoy/explore on two wheels I will always have that pleasure available as my first choice for touring.