adventure tour motorcycle

The Best Adventure Motorcycles for 2023: Ride Everywhere

Looking to buy a motorcycle for on- and off-road riding, or long-distance travel? Fortunately, there are many choices. Our list showcases 18 of the best adventure motorcycles on the U.S. market for 2023.

The adventure or “ADV” segment of the motorcycle industry is thriving, and the selection just keeps growing. Regardless of your preferences, skill level, or budget, you will likely find something to scratch your itch for adventure riding within the ever-expanding ADV bike lineup.

To be considered an “adventure” motorcycle we’re talking street legal, off-road capable, and comfortable to ride for long distances.

Adventure bikes inherently strive to offer equally good performance, handling, and comfort both on- and off-road. This is a complicated balance to strike, and there tend to be concessions one way or another. Choosing the best adventure motorcycle really means figuring out what qualities are most important to you.

This is not an exhaustive list of all bikes that meet those general criteria or could be made to meet them with after-market upgrades. Instead, we chose these tried-and-true adventure motorcycles that come from the factory ready for long-distance riding. 

18 Best Adventure Motorcycles for 2023

Here’s our list of the Best Adventure Motorcycles for 2023, in order of displacement — from smallest to largest.

Suzuki V-Strom 650, XT & XT Adventure

Aprilia tuareg 660 adventure, yamaha ténéré 700, bmw f 750 gs, suzuki v-strom 800de & de adventure, bmw f 850 gs & gs adventure, moto guzzi v85tt & v85tt adventure, ktm 890 adventure & adventure r, triumph tiger 900 gt & rally, husqvarna norden 901, ducati desertx, suzuki v-strom 1050, de & de adventure, honda crf1100l africa twin, ducati multistrada v4 rally, yamaha super ténéré 1200 es, triumph tiger 1200 gt & rally, bmw r 1250 gs & gs adventure, ktm 1290 super adventure s & r.

• Base price $9,104-10,799
• Engine 645cc V-twin
• Power 70 hp
• Wet weight 476 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.3 gal.
• Tire size 19”/17”

The V-Strom line offers new or budget-conscience adventure riders an affordable way to explore the world on a legendary V-twin. Well known for being reliable, versatile, and inexpensive, the 650 platform is a great way to join the fast-growing sport of adventure motorcycle riding.

Differences in the models are small but important. The standard V-Strom 650 (shown) comes with 10-spoke cast wheels with tubeless tires, while the XT model has spoke-style wheels with tubeless tires, hand guards, and a protective lower engine cowl.

The 650XT Adventure comes with everything the XT does in addition to a rugged accessory bar and 37L quick-release aluminum panniers. Depending on your riding style, goals, and budget, the 650 may be all the bike you’ll need.

If you can afford a bit more, budget adventure riders can now get a more purpose-built bike for their money with the new 800DE model.

• Base price $12,299-12,699
• Engine 659cc parallel twin
• Power 79 hp
• Wet weight 450 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4.7 gal.
• Tire size 21”/18”

Aprilia, having just joined the adventure motorcycle scene last year, no changes have been announced for the Tuareg 660 for 2023. Aprilia has done a good job offering a compelling new ADV bike at a reasonable price.

At only 450 pounds wet, the Tuareg is nicely placed at the smaller end of the mid-weight options. The suspension has a whopping 9.4 inches of travel in both the front and rear, giving it one of the highest ranges of suspension travel in its class.

Fuel is carried low, having a big impact on how the bike handles and making it relatively easy to pick up for a bike this size. There are tons of unique, well-thought-out features to discover if you take the time to research this bike thoroughly.

For the many folks struggling to find a Ténéré 700 or who are thinking about paying over MSRP to get one, the Tuareg deserves consideration. 

• Base price $10,499
• Engine 689cc parallel twin
• Power 74 hp
• Wet weight 452 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4.2 gal.

The Ténéré 700, or “T7,” has enjoyed a huge following since conception. Unfortunately, Yamaha has not been able to keep up with demand. If you can manage to find one, it is indeed a special bike worthy of the accolades it has received.

Yamaha has succeeded in offering the ADV community something that no other manufacturer has to date: a rock-solid engine in a capable ADV bike at an incredibly low price. How did they do that? Well, compared to the competition, the  Ténéré 700  has almost zero extras.

For some, this is a compromise; for others, a preference. If you need ride modes, traction control, and cruise control to enjoy your ride, this is not your bike.

If you like the simplicity of a basic setup that will help you become a better rider by the sheer absence of rider aids, start looking now. It might take you a while to find one, and you will likely have to pay above MSRP to get it. If you want more bang for your buck, look at the Tuareg 660 . 

• Base price $9,995
• Engine 853cc parallel twin
• Power 77 hp
• Wet weight 493 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4 gal.

The F 750 is better suited for pavement than the F 850, coming with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast aluminum wheels. All GS models come equipped with innovative features and state-of-the-art technology, proving a plush ride regardless of which size you choose.

Additionally, BMW has a whole host of optional upgrades to make sure your bike meets all of your needs. If you go with the F 750 GS over the bigger, more off-road capable 850 models, you will potentially save a fair amount of money and a little bit of weight but also get a little less power, have a shorter range, and have less wind protection.

If you are looking at BMW because you want a GS and you’d like to be able to take your bike down any road you come across, check out the F 850 GS for better ground clearance, bigger, spoked wheels, and better suspension. 

• Base price $11,349-12,999
• Engine 776cc parallel twin
• Power 84.3 hp
• Wet weight 507 lbs.
• Tire size 21”/17"

Brand new for 2023, Suzuki has stepped up to the plate offering adventure riders a more dirt-oriented bike with the addition of the 800DE model (shown) to the V-Strom lineup.

The 800DE fits nicely into the V-Strom family between the popular 650 and 1050 options. This is particularly exciting due to the fact that the   larger, mid-weight lineup of ADV bikes is notably lacking affordable options, and the V-Stroms are known for providing great value for the money.  

The Adventure model on the 800 platform comes equipped with quick-release black-anodized 37L aluminum panniers, plus a rugged accessory bar and aluminum skid plate for true off-road touring capability.

While the base weight is unfortunately on the heavy side at 507 pounds (we don’t know what the Adventure model add-ons weigh), Suzuki’s reputation for reliability coupled with a fair price point will suit many.

• Base price $12,595-13,595
• Power 90 hp
• Wet weight 504 lbs., 538 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 4 gal., 6.1 gal.
• Tire size 21”/17”

The standard F 850 GS (shown) is a trimmed-down version of the F 850 GS Adventure with a smaller fuel tank, fairing, and shorter suspension . The Adventure model, or “GSA” as it is often referred to, comes with quite a bit more and, as a result, weighs significantly more.

At 538 pounds, the GSA is a heavy adventure motorcycle for the mid-weight category but also the most long-distance-touring-friendly for this displacement. With its large gas tank, windshield, and bulky fairing, the F 850 GSA offers good range, weather protection, and comfort.

Don’t be misled by the base prices, as you will quickly realize many of the BMW features you want are optional, and they add up fast. Depending on what kind of adventure riding you want to do, if you are a BMW fan, you might find that for the weight and the price of the 850, you can get more bike for your money with the GS 1250 .

A good reason to stick with a BMW? They have a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty — one of the best in the business.

• Base price $12,190-13,190
• Engine 853cc V-twin
• Power 76 hp
• Fuel capacity 6 gal.

The Moto Guzzi V85TT has a transverse V-twin engine and is shaft driven — a unique combination. The standard model V85TT (shown) comes with quite a few comfort, performance, and tech features that you might not expect on an old-fashioned-looking bike.

The Adventure model has even more. If you crave classic, retro styling and a ton of character, and you’re more interested in road travel than aggressive off-road capability, take a peek at the details of this Moto Guzzi. You’ll be surprised by what you get for your adventure motorcycle money. Spoiler alert: there’s gorgeous luggage involved.

• Base price $13,949-15,199
• Engine 889cc parallel twin
• Power 105 hp, 103 hp
• Wet weight 473 lbs., 464 lbs.

Updated for 2023, the KTM 890 Adventure base model (shown) has received some nice upgrades that make it even more appealing at this price point. You might quickly find yourself spending more, though, as KTM has cleverly introduced a new demo mode, allowing you to test out all the optional electronic rider aids for the first 932 miles.

Upon startup, after you’ve passed that mark, the aids will vanish, and you may decide you need to purchase just one or two upgrades, or perhaps you’ll feel compelled to spring for the full tech pack. Regardless of your decision there, the reworked adjustable suspension, improved seat comfort, electronics, and better wind protection will serve you well.

The key difference between the Adventure R model and every other bike in the midweight ADV category is the suspension. Lightweight, responsive, and powerful, this bike is just as capable, comfortable, and fun on the twisties as it is on single track.

More dirt-oriented than the base model, this bike is for you if you want the highest-performing, easiest-to-pick-up adventure motorcycle money can buy.

• Base price $14,995-17,395
• Engine 888cc triple
• Power 94 hp
• Wet weight 501 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.28 gal.
• Tire size 19"/17", 21”/17”

Released in 2020 to replace the well-loved Tiger 800, Triumph has done an amazing job producing a high-quality, capable, and comfortable range of bikes to meet all your adventure motorcycle needs.

If you prefer more road riding, the 900 GT (shown) and 900 GT Pro will take care of you on everything from urban adventures to proper long-distance travel. It comes with a 19-inch front and 17-inch cast wheel.

The GT Low model saves nearly 2 inches in seat height by slightly reducing the suspension travel. As this is the more street-oriented model, the tiny loss in ground clearance shouldn’t pose an issue.

If you want an adventure bike built for maximum off-road, all-day riding capability, control, and comfort, the Tiger 900 Rally and Rally Pro have you covered. The latter comes with a tubeless, spoked 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel. 

Triumph also offers a 3-year, unlimited-mile warranty. Imagine how many miles you could lay down on one of these in three years!

• Base price $14,499
• Power 105 hp
• Wet weight 472 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5 gal.

First released in 2022, the Norden 901 is based on the well-loved KTM 890 Adventure platform. The key difference is the Norden is set up to be more comfortable on the road for traveling long distances than the 890, with a wider, plusher seat and softer suspension.

This bike stands out from the competition because of its relatively low MSRP and power-to-weight ratio — an impressive 105 horsepower and 472 pounds. Despite looking chunky, the fuel and engine weight are down low, making it feel surprisingly light and responsive.

Don’t let KTM’s reputation for being high maintenance scare you off; the oil change interval on this bike is a whopping 9,300 miles.

A welcome addition to the popular mid-weight adventure bike category, the Norden 901 handles very well on- or off-road and is comfortable, powerful, and fun to ride.

• Base price $17,695-18,295
• Engine 937cc V-twin
• Power 110 hp
• Wet weight 495 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.5 gal.

Introduced in 2022, the DesertX is an exciting addition to the mid-weight ADV motorcycle lineup. This is the first modern Ducati with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tire, long-stroke suspension, and a frame designed specifically for off-road adventuring.

Ducati did their homework, successfully offering an impressive package that stands out from the crowd. Head-turning styling and overall build quality; amazing suspension, brakes, and electronics package; and, of course, the most powerful engine in its class.

This is Ducati we’re talking about, after all. If you don’t want to make any concessions in performance or comfort going between on- and off-road riding, the DesertX is one of the most capable and highest-quality adventure motorcycles currently available.

• Base price $15,199-17,599
• Engine 1,137cc V-twin
• Power 107 hp
• Wet weight 554 lbs.

Suzuki has been inspired by the competition, introducing a whole host of revisions to the 1050 V-Strom and making it a better performing, more comfortable, and more versatile platform.

The new   DE model replaces the XT model from prior years, with the intention of offering a more off-road capable model to the lineup. How does the DE differ from the base model? The standard 1050 (shown) comes with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless 10-spoke cast wheels.

The DE has a spoked 21-inch tubed front wheel and 17-inch tubeless rear, offering better ground clearance and taller suspension for off-road performance, among other features.

The Adventure model is equipped with all the updates of the DE, with the addition of travel accessories such as aluminum panniers and LED fog lights.

• Base price TBA
• Engine 1,084cc parallel twin
• Power 101 hp
• Wet weight 505 lbs., 529 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5 gal., 6.5 gal.
• Tire size 21”/18"

As of writing, the official 2023 models, options, and corresponding pricing for the Africa Twin lineup have yet to be confirmed for the US market. But no best adventure bikes list is complete without the Africa Twin.

Shown is the 2022 Adventure Sports ES model. With a lot of new adventure bikes popping up in the mid-weight category, Honda’s popular CRF1100L platform has some stiff competition.

It may not be the lightest, fastest, or highest-performing adventure motorcycle on the market, but Honda has given us a solid, good-performing, ultra-reliable, quality-made ADV bike that has been popular around the world for decades.

Most importantly, it handles the road just as well as the dirt and offers great value for the money. How do you argue with all that?

• Base price $29,995-30,595
• Engine 1,158cc V4
• Power 170 hp
• Wet weight 573 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 7.9 gal.

Making its world debut in 2023, the V4 Rally is an updated Multistrada on steroids. It has way too many bells and whistles to list (we have a whole article on that  here ), but you can trust that all your power, comfort, safety, and connectivity needs will be exceeded.

Solo or two-up, this bike will confidently adjust to accommodate any conditions you might throw at it. Leading the pack in radar technology, the V4 is the first motorcycle in production to have both front and rear radar for adaptive cruise control and blind spot warnings.

Boasting more horsepower than any other ADV bike on the market, fuel consumption is something to investigate, especially if you are looking for the longest range possible.

The main reason this may not be the bike for you? Sit down before you read the price range.

• Base price $16,299
• Engine 1,199cc parallel twin
• Wet weight 584 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 6.1 gal.

The Super Ténéré is Yamaha’s biggest adventure motorcycle and has been around for years. It has a large following and is known for being trustworthy and capable.

Unlike its little brother, the Ténéré 700 , which notoriously carries its weight high, the engine mass is kept low on the 1200 for great handling. It does come with more features than the 700, but fewer than its competitors in the heavyweight category.

Fewer electronics mean less to fail, making it a reliable and durable choice for long-distance travel. The Super Ténéré does have basic frills, like cruise and traction control, and adjustable suspension.

This bike has been and will continue to be a solid choice for adventure riding.

• Base price $19,595-24,200
• Engine 1,160cc triple
• Power 147 hp
• Wet weight 529 lbs., 575 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.3 gal., 7.9 gal.
• Tire size 19”/18”, 21”/18”

Triumph’s 1200 lineup got a complete makeover for 2022. A new engine, chassis, suspension, brakes — the whole works. The biggest complaint about the old 1200s was the weight. That has gone down, so good job Triumph for listening.

More road-focused with a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel, the GT series includes the base model GT (shown), GT Pro, and GT Explorer. The Rally Pro and Rally Explorer models are more dirt-oriented, with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheel, more ground clearance, and longer travel suspension.

The Rally models are the same bikes, except the Explorer comes with a larger tank size (5.3 gallons versus 7.9 gallons), blind-spot detection, fuel tank protection bars, standard heated seats, and taller handlebar risers.

Fast, agile, and comfortable, there is a Tiger for everyone in this broad lineup.

• Base price $17,995-20,345
• Engine 1,254cc flat twin
• Power 136 hp
• Wet weight 549 lbs., 591 lbs.
• Fuel capacity 5.2 gal., 7.9 gal.

The big BMW GS bikes are what come to mind for many when we think of adventure motorcycles. The GS Adventure — or “GSA” — is a beefed-up version of the base GS (shown), having bigger fuel capacity, more wind protection, spoked wheels, and higher clearance for off-road riding.

These behemoths may be heavy, but they are easier to pick up than you may expect, thanks to the big cylinder heads and crash bars that hold them partly upright.

If you are tempted to save money or weight by going with the base model, you might want to take a look at all the add-ons you’d likely want, calculate how the weight would be impacted, and compare it to what comes included in the price of the GSA.

There’s a reason BMW has a loyal brand following in the adventure bike ecosystem; they’ve set the bar high.

• Base price $20,299
• Engine 1,301cc V-twin
• Power 160 hp
• Wet weight 550 lbs.

Seeing extensive revisions in 2021, the KTM 1290 platform has only minor updates for 2023.

The Adventure S model (shown) is the more long-distance, road-oriented sibling of the aggressively off-road capable Adventure R model. The 1290 models cover ground quickly and effortlessly and have the ergonomics to make sure your adventures are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

KTMs are highly customizable and known for being incredibly lightweight, fun, and powerful. Because of that, they’re one of the best adventure motorcycles on- and off-road.

2023 Adventure Motorcycles — No Perfect Bike

Full disclosure, I ride a Suzuki DR650SE, and I call it my adventure motorcycle. We have indeed been on many wonderful adventures together, but it’s really a dual-sport. Yes, it is street-legal and off-road capable, but it is not very comfortable. It becomes exponentially less so on long-distance rides , even with upgrades.

Adventurers the world over will share similar stories of epic times on all types and sizes of bikes , including single-cylinder or “thumper” bikes like mine. The point is that while you can certainly have adventures riding whatever bike you fancy (or can afford), an ideal adventure motorcycle will take you everywhere you might want to go, and you’ll be a lot more comfortable.

Adventure Motorcycle FAQs

Good ground clearance, suspension travel, and large spoked wheels all help make navigating different types of terrain and obstacles easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Vibration, jarring, and wind buffeting are three big factors that are exhausting on long rides. Twin-cylinder engines or above will vibrate much less than single-cylinder bikes. Plush suspension will absorb changes in terrain, and a frame-mounted fairing will provide ultimate protection from the wind.

The lightest weight bike in this comparison is the new Aprilia Tuareg 660 , coming in just under 450 pounds (449.7, to be exact). The only other bike that comes close is the Yamaha Ténéré 700 , at 452 pounds. The heaviest is the venerable BMW R 1250 GSA , at 591 pounds. Leave it to German engineering to figure out how to perfectly balance that much weight on two wheels.

No surprises here. The priciest is Ducati, and the economy is a Suzuki. The new Multistrada V4 Rally can be yours in Ducati Red for just under $31,000. For that price, you can buy matching Suzuki V-Stroms for yourself and two of your friends. The base model V-Strom 650 comes in at $9,104 and has been successfully carrying adventure riders all over the world for nearly 20 years. 

Suzuki has gone after the adventure market with their new V-Strom “DE” models . They are still pretty far behind the competition in side-by-side comparisons, but the pricing is so good it might not matter. At the other end of the spectrum in quality, price, and cutting-edge technology, the Tiger 1200 line has been completely revamped for 2023.

If you want to do lots of road riding, the very popular BMW GSAs , Triumph Tigers , and of course, the Ducati Multistrada will offer the most comfort on the longest rides. Heavier, large-displacement bikes tend to ride better on the road.

Riding off-road can mean a lot of different things. Generally speaking, the lighter-weight ADV bikes tend to be easier to handle (and pick up!) riding off-road. Look at the KTM 890 R (really any KTM), Tuareg 660 , and Ténéré 700 if you live for dirt.

This is where the mid-weight adventure bikes win. The Ducati DesertX is creating quite a stir. I dare you not to want this bike. Also touted as equally well-appointed for both are the Tiger 900 , the new kid Norden 901 , and the Africa Twin .

How to Get Into Adventure Riding Without Breaking the Bank

Our intro to adventure riding guide will get you rolling on two wheels on the road less traveled without breaking the bank. Read more…

Motorcycle Suspension: A Beginner's Guide for Adventure Touring

Setting up motorcycle suspension properly is one of the most important aspects of motorcycle safety and fun-factor. Yet most riders don't do it. Read more…

6 Ways to Easily Turn an Adventure Motorcycle Around Off Road

Adventure motorcycle pros teach us six ways to turn a big bike around on narrow trails. It's not brute force, but technique and practice. Read more…

Misty Pine has been pushing her love of motorcycles on anyone who will listen for the past decade. Prior to that, it was horses. Currently based in Portland, Oregon, she is a rare native Oregonian and despite having lived and traveled all over the world, she has yet to find a place as magical as the Pacific Northwest. In addition to riding, Pine enjoys mushroom identification, searching for hot springs, sharing good food, traveling to remote riding destinations in her rad Moto Van, and endlessly photographing all of the above.

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The 11 Best Adventure Motorcycles You Can Buy Right Now

Whether riding on asphalt, gravel or dirt, an adventure bike never waivers. These are some of the best you can buy right now.

By Michael Frank

Adventure bikes have been on a tear since the start of the pandemic. No other category in motorcycling is hotter. “Adventure,” however, is a loose term. And the best way to understand what it means when applied to bikes would be a moto that can go off-road but that, depending on setup and especially the variable of weight, will be either very capable for the average rider to use when ripping through the grime — or not so much.

Flip that coin over, however, and the bikes that may be a handful in the dirt (if you’re not a world-class rider) will be better and more comfortable on the road.

But whether you care about riding a lot of dirt or barely any, off-road positioning can be super comfy. You sit upright, not bent forward in racing style, and not reclined in the La-Z-Boy arms out/legs out bagger posture. Instead, your feet are underneath you, so you can stand easily to absorb the hit of rolling over a log or a speed bump, and with longer travel suspensions, they soak up the spine pounding that other bikes can’t.

Still, if that description unites adventure motorcycles, a chasm divides the breed. Just like saying you drive an “SUV,” that could be a lifted Jeep Wrangler , or that could be its distant cousin, the Renegade —which happens to share a platform with a Fiat 500L and is no rock-crawling 4×4 Godzilla.

This guide breaks down the adventure category into sections, loosely defined first by weight, with the heavier bikes leading the pack, then moves to progressively lighter models. Note that heft alone isn’t the only decision to think about. A bigger engine (generally) makes a bike more powerful, and twin-cylinder (or triple) configs rattle your body and the bike less than single cylinders. Fairings add weight but also cut through the air, reducing fatigue, and a bike designed to carry luggage might also be a factor in your thought process, as (should be) fuel capacity, which enables more range between fill-ups, and that can be critical if you define adventure as roaming farther from the grid.

We’ve put all of those considerations into our decision tree thingamajig, and it’s spit out the following 11 bikes.

Could the list be even longer? Of course, it could! Because everyone knows the best motorcycle rides are defined not by the roads—but by the laugh session at the coffee stop arguing over which bike is “best,” and why.

Adventure Touring Motorcycles

Pros: Best for reeling in long miles

Cons: Weight can make them hard to handle in off-road, technical terrain

The heaviest beasts of the realm can get you there and back, especially if you define “there” as a distant dot on the globe. The brands in this mix are all fighting BMW’s R1250 GS for a piece of the “serious” ADV space. Serious because: money. None of these bikes comes cheaply, and for a good reason, since you’re getting high-end tech like synced braking actuation, ABS and traction control, at least twin-cylinder engines, and systems you can tune for all sorts of differing conditions. But these bikes are taller and heavier, making them a challenge in the dirt.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

There are two reasons this bike exists. First, Harley-Davidson needed to evolve its engine tech for a world of more onerous emissions restrictions and (eventually) smaller displacement demands. The all-new Revolution Max series of V-Twin engines will address both challenges. Second: Their core buyer is aging out of riding, and the current sales boom in bikes is, as we already mentioned, all about the ADV category where, previously, Harley had nothing to sell. Luckily, the Pan-Am is a smash hit, largely thanks to the muscle of its thrilling, 150 hp liquid-cooled V-Twin. Five ride modes and a suspension that raises for off-road riding add icing to the equation.

Price: $19,999

Triumph Tiger 1200

Triumph’s latest Tiger ticks all the boxes, in part because Triumph is offering so many versions. You can have it in five different configs: Some with more suspension travel and some with larger fuel tanks for greater range, as well as with either spoked wheels (for off-road) or cast hoops (better for pavement). Triumph also addressed the issue of a too-tall seat height (now down to a very accessible 33.5 inches) and weight: the new 1200 is up to 37 pounds lighter than the BMW GS it’s poised to battle. The kicker, literally, is that you’re getting Triumph’s signature, ultra-free-revving 148 hp triple and off/on-road modes, all to make the Tiger 1200 as versatile and fun as any bike in the segment.

Price: $19,100

Honda Africa Twin

The Africa Twin checks in just a little lighter than competitors in this segment, thanks to constant tweaking by Honda to make the Africa Twin increasingly competitive, even making it greener (to meet tighter EU regs) while upping the total output of its 1,100 cc engine to 100hp. Honda also lets riders dig into the custom mode sandbox, offering wheelie control, cornering ABS, rear-lift control and DCT cornering detection and three engine-braking levels and seven torque control levels. Honda also manages a reasonable 33.5-inch seat height in the low position but still ekes out a generous 10 inches of ground clearance. Oh, and the Africa Twin is also relatively affordable compared to rivals. The only reason to balk? The rumor mill is rampant that Honda’s coming with a far lighter, 500 cc adventure bike.

Price: $14,499

BMW R1250 GS Adventure

BMW’s boxer engine design puts the weight lower in the frame, so even though we’re talking about 549 pounds for a 2022 R1250 GS, the king of the realm remains lust-worthy for its legendary low-speed handling on and off-road and incredibly excellent on-pavement cornering. Simply put, a motorcycle isn’t a car: You must use your body weight and movement on the bike as a counterbalance. The higher the engine sits in the chassis, the harder that is to do. You’ll spot GS’s all over the globe precisely because they’re the ultimate touring machines (wink) that, despite their bulk, aren’t as exhausting to ride when the conditions get sketchier, and your brain and body are running on caffeine and fumes. Oh, sure, just like the others, they come with traction control, ABS, and even (if you want) a heated seat. But the core argument for wanting one is about simple physics.

Price: $22,860

Ducati Desert X

We could just as easily include the excellent Multistrada V4 on this list, but the Desert X is a bit lighter, at 492 pounds, and the latest flavor from Ducati, and it’s a machine that’s cost-competitive, too. Ducati manages to make its 110 hp ramp progressively, rather than zip into warp drive and loop you off the machine. And speaking of friendly, if the stock 34.4-inch seat height doesn’t fit, options let you go up to a higher 35.2 inches or down to 33.3 inches. And while Ducati claims a standard 5.5 gallons nets you 250 miles of range, an optional extra 2.1-gallon rear tank would yield 370 miles of roaming. Oh, and if the 937cc motor seems small compared to the bruisers listed here, its 110hp and 10,000 RPM rev limit are anything but. Plus—not that you didn’t notice—but this bike is gorgeous.

Price: $16,975

60/40 Motorcycles

Pros: Balance the want for dirt against the need for street

Cons: Some are more capable in the slop; some are more capable on asphalt

Which side is 60 and which is 40? Is 60 dirt and 40 road—or vice versa? Well, brother, that’s for you to decide. Scroll further down, and you’ll see the “dual-sport” category, which the cognoscenti know are just MX bikes with license plate holders and headlights.By contrast, 60/40 bikes are the multitools of the genre, neither as powerful as the adventure touring machines but also not as porky and far more comfortable on the highway than the dual-sports.

Our picks for the 60/40 segment share a few essential traits: Enough ground clearance to be decent off-road, some sort of fairing and at least partial windshield, and decent luggage hauling and aftermarket parts availability. But sift through this list, and you’ll see some skew better at playing on a dirt trail while others lean toward making your morning commute a joy. Wants? Needs? You’re the arbiter. We’re just relaying the info.

KTM 890 Adventure R

With ten inches of ground clearance, a WP-tuned suspension with 9.4 inches of travel both front and rear, Bosch traction control and ABS systems and weighing a mere 432 pounds, the 890 Adventure R will easily outmaneuver the heavyweights above. And with a sixth gear and 89 hp from its silken parallel twin, it’ll out-muscle the lighter weight 60/40s on this list and run smoother than all those single-cylinder machines. The 890 Adventure R sits right at the happy place sweet spot of ADV bikes, with capability and gravitas but not too much bulk. The rub: Having 14+ bones to afford one—and climbing the ladder to that tall, 34.6-inch seat height.

Price: $14,199

Yamaha Tenere 700

Twin engines add a lust factor to riding — not only because they’re way more aurally satisfying, but because their balanced operation doesn’t vibrate parts—or you—as much as single cylinders bouncing up and down. They do tend to add weight, however, and at 452 pounds, the Tenere is the heaviest bike of this 60/40 sub-bruiser slot.

Its twin’s 72 hp comes up shy of the KTM 890 Adventure R’s ponies, and the Tenere’s 9.4 inches of ground clearance also don’t quite meet that KTM’s ride height, but you’re not spending nearly as much for the Yamaha.

Also, vs. some of the smaller bikes here, note the 215-mile range between fueling. Add a chassis that’s very well set up for touring, including easy mounting points for bags, decent armoring out of the box, a reasonably-sized fairing and a tank made for leg gripping while standing, and you have the pinnacle of Yamahas.

Speaking of apexes, the 34.4-inch seat height is on par with that of the KTM 890, though fortunately, there are lowering kits for both bikes.

Price: $10,299

Suzuki DR 650 S

A carbureted bike!! In 2022? Look. Even if trendier, newer bikes in this fold, like the KTM in the next entry, have hewed toward modern tech like fuel injection, ABS and switchable traction control, there are downsides, particularly when it comes to trailside fixes and MacGuyvering said repairs. The DR 650 comes in 15 pounds lighter than that KTM Adventure 390 and produces the same horsepower. It’s on this list as the zag to the KTM 390’s zig because, with a taller seat height (34.8 inches), it could be more comfortable for taller humans, and speaking of that, you’re getting 10.4 inches of ground clearance, too.

All that adds up to a more capable off-roader, though the counter-argument merits your attention, too, since the DR 650’s relatively low, 366-pound weight feels a little top heavy, and it wouldn’t hurt Suzuki to add a sixth gear to make highway riding more comfortable. Still, it’s hard to argue with the approachable price and the dead 50/50 split of application.

Price: $6,999

KTM Adventure 390

Yeah, yeah, there are two flavors of KTM on this list. This variety skews more toward the pavement, especially because Its smooth, 42 hp single delivers very linear torque from a unit that’s way less buzzy than many engines in this class. So highway miles melt away far more comfortably—and the bonus of a sixth gear helps in that department, too. The 33.6-inch seat height isn’t too tall for most riders, either.

The cons? Not quite eight inches of ground clearance will push you straight toward KTM’s prodigious library of mods, including bolting on a high fender, ditching the stock rubber for more aggressive knobs, and tossing the plastic skid plate for a KTM’s Powerparts aluminum one. That’ll get you closer to a 55/45 machine, if not the monster 890 Adventure R—but we’re talking half the cost, too. Plus: the combination of a 3.8-gallon fuel capacity and about 60 mpg fuel economy delivers more range than you’ll find from alternatives.

Price: $6,599

Enduro / Dual Sport Motorcycles

Pros: Lightweight, flickable, and agile in the dirt

Cons: You might rattle out your molars at freeway speeds

On the spectrum of adventure bikes, enduros and dual sports are the best ones equipped for tight trail rides rather than long-distance touring. An enduro or dual can handle a few bags and some cargo — but the ideal way to use one of these smaller bikes is to drive to your destination, set up camp, then go exploring.

Due to their smaller fuel tanks, they don’t have a superb range, so trailering them to base camp isn’t uncommon. Likewise, you don’t want to spend days on end in the saddle; they’re not far from road-legal dirtbikes.

Honda CRF450RL

At 291 pounds and banging out 42 hp, you’re getting 6.9 hp per pound. If it feels insanely quick, that’s because the CRF450RL is very much an MX ripper with turn signals and a place to mount a license plate. The seat height cranes at an unfriendly (to anyone who isn’t over six feet tall) 37.2 inches, but once aboard. 12.6 inches of ground clearance lets you rollick over every whoop in your way. This bike is an attack dog and will blast holes through almost all off-road terrain.

Downsides? Like the 450R on which it’s based, the seat is rock hard, and the tiny two-gallon fuel tank limits your range.

Price: $10,000

Kawasaki KLX 300

A mellow, 23 hp single and the low, 302-pound weight makes the KLX the ideal plated dirt bike for learning to mess around off asphalt. It won’t scare you, but with 10.8 inches of ground clearance, it’ll chew through singletrack comfortably. That Honda will eat its shorts, but you’re getting this Kawasaki to play, not to capture a checkered flag. One mod: Its 35.2-inch seat height might be too sky-scrapery for many riders; get an aftermarket lowering kit to address the issue. Like the CRF450RL, the KLX’s two-gallon fuel capacity requires you to pack extra gas or closely watch what’s in the tank.

Price: $5,899

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Motorcycle Gear: The Neck Brace, and Why I Wear One

"What the heck is that?"  Almost immediately, I know the passerby is wondering what the framework is wrapped around my neck and sitting atop my shoulders.  While it seems almost impossible to me that anyone in the world wouldn't know what this is by now, I remind myself that not everyone lives in the motorcycle world as I do, and might not know. So I typically reply "it's a neck brace to prevent neck injury in the event of a crash," and then go on to give them a visual of extreme neck movement and how it would stop my helmet (and neck) from being forced into a dangerous, or even catastrophic position.

The other question is always: "Does it work?"

Still not sure of a good way to answer this, I typically respond "Well...I sure hope I never have to find out.  But it does make sense to me."

Folks, with literally an infinite number of possible scenarios, crashes, forces, angles, speeds, and measures of velocity inherent in any motorcycle crash, it's really impossible for us to say with any degree of accuracy if a neck brace "would or would not" have made a difference in any specific crash scenario.  However, I think it's safe to say that there are plenty of reasons to believe something like this would help, or at least reduce the chances of catastrophic injury. Is a neck brace definitely going to make the difference though? My answer is: A few $hundred$ certainly isn't worth finding out the hard way.

The Alpinestars BNS manual goes on to explain in considerable detail the testing process, reasoning, and design that goes into their Bionic Neck Support. See in the picture to the above/right here exactly how the bottom of my helmet would make contact with the BNS in 'extreme' situations and prevent injury.  At the same time, I'm easily able to turn my head in either direction when I'm riding, constantly scanning my surroundings as needed.  (This picture was taken on a "Patagonia Experience" motorcycle trip in 2013.)

So a few of my justifications for wearing a neck brace are simple:

• It takes literally a few seconds to put a neck brace on, and I'm putting on a helmet anyway, so hardly any extra time or effort is needed
• I don't find the neck brace restrictive, heavy, or uncomfortable in any way - if anything, it helps me feel more confident that I've done everything possible to stay safe (and confidence leads to better motorcycle riding, right?!?)
• The cost of a neck brace like the Alpinestars Bionic is practically nothing compared to hospital bills (or worse)

With all that in mind, what if a neck brace did make the difference someday in your motorcycle safety needs? Again, I'm not planning on finding out personally if they work or not, as I've had my motorcycle crashes and surgery, and find all of these endeavors are something I don't want more of. As I continue to ride the world though, I simply can't see a reason not to wear one.

(Excerpt from Alpinestars Bionic Neck Support manual below)

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The Best Adventure Motorcycles [2024 Edition]

Updated August 22, 2023 by Simon Bertram

For Those That Want To Ride More Off-Road Than On

Article quick nav.

These are the best ADV motorcycles for 2023:

Aprilia Tuareg 660

Husqvarna Norden 901

Triumph Tiger 1200

Ducati DesertX

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

Ducati Multistrada V2

KTM 890 Adventure R

Yamaha Tenere 700

Honda Africa Twin

BMW R1250 GS Adventure

BMW F850 GS/GS Adventure

H-D Pan American 1250 Special

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

Triumph Tiger 900 Rally

The SUVs of the motorcycle world are adventure bikes. They’re the motorcycles that are designed to do anything and pretty much everything. They can take you across the country comfortably, traverse difficult terrain, and they even handle much better than expected on a twisty canyon road.

These motorcycles are the Swiss Army Knives of the motorcycling world and they’ve become quite popular in recent years. If you want a bike that can chug along through pretty much any pavement-based environment and handle loose dirt, hard-packed trails, sand, mud, rocks, and more, you have to have one of these. So, with all that said, let me guide you through this interesting segment.

Born from the need to do more than a typical dual-sport motorcycle is capable of, adventure motorcycles seek to be the only bike you need in the garage. The genesis of this type of bike is often attributed to the 1981 BMW R/80 GS , a motorcycle that basically opened the door for these hybrid off-road and on-road machines. It was a misunderstood machine at first, but it made more sense than people originally thought.

Since that first GS, BMW has crafted more and more advanced adventure motorcycles and became more or less the king of the segment, but other manufacturers were building interesting dual-sport and adventure machines right alongside them and the segment continued to evolve until we get to where we are today. 

These days there’s not just big adventure bikes and middleweight adventure bikes, there are smaller displacement bikes, too. Smaller displacement used to lean more towards the old school dual-sport lineups, which were little more than dirtbikes with lights and number plates on them, but now we have legit adventure motorcycles with displacements in the 300cc and 400cc range. This brings the price and barrier of entry down. It opens the door to more adventure riders, and that means even greater popularity of these bikes. 

About Our Selections

These selections considered ease of use, rideability, price, and how effective each motorcycle was achieving the stated goal of its class. We are confident that any of these bikes will be superb options for most riders.

To further define what we are meaning by "Adventure Motorcycles" we have set our sights at a full day trip across varied terrain, or a weekend away with the ability to carry all necessities with you on the bike.

2023 Aprilia Tuareg 660

A newer ADV that is focused around the midrange in both price and performance

Why We Picked It:

While the other manufacturers go up and up in the cubic centimeters, Aprilia has really doubled down on the 600cc to 700cc niche. First came the highly anticipated RS660 supersport, then the sport-touring Tuono 660 . Now, for the adventure crowd, the Tuareg 660 is just a few short months away from jumping into the midsize ADV market.

Sporting the same 659cc parallel-twin as the other two 660s, the Tuareg comes with 80 HP and 51 lb-ft of torque, giving it appreciable and friendly grunt in lower gears for rock scrambling, but good power to keep the trail fast and fun. It’s also built to last, with a steel-tube trellis frame supporting an aluminum bracket, all of it high tensile. A 21 inch front wheel and 18 inch rear is almost par for the course in this segment, but Aprilia adds nice touches like classic spoked wheels, Brembo brakes, and a full suite of electronics.

Those electronics are simple to use as well, with two default ride modes (road, off-road) and two customizable ones that let you set traction control, engine braking, engine mapping, ABS levels, the works. It also has a traditional rally-style seat, with the lowest point being 33.85 inches high. All said, this promises to be one hell of a midsize bike, and we can’t wait to get our hands on one for a thorough test!

Specifications:

Price: $12,699

Engine: 659cc parallel twin

Power: 79 HP

Torque: 51 lbs-ft

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual

Curb Weight: 450 lbs

Good torque and power across a large part of the rev range for scrambling and cruising

Easy to use electronics with a full ABS On/Off switch for when you need the tail to slide.

Learn More:

2023 Aprilia Tuareg 660 specs, features, & pics

2023 Husqvarna Norden 901

A bike of two personalities, both of them good

Might as well address the elephant in the room right off the bat: Yes, the Norden 901 is brother/sister with the KTM 890 Adventure . That, however, is where the two brands and three bikes take different approaches to the ADV space. The 890 Adventure is much more of an on-road tourer, while the 890 Adventure R is much more composed on the dirt. The Norden 901 straddles the two, with riding modes adjustable on the fly to suit either riding style.

One thing that also impresses with the Norden 901 over the KTM bikes is that is it much less edgy in terms of styling. Some people like the triangles and geometric shapes that KTM has adopted as their aesthetic, but the Husqvarna is, at least in this writers’ opinion, much more civilized and not as garish.

Another huge bonus to the Norden 901 is that it massively improves on one major nitpick many KTM riders have, and it has an actual seat cushion for the saddle instead of a brick covered with some waterproofed cloth. Tailbones of ADV riders rejoice! In truth, if you’ve been wanting to get a KTM because of their specialization in off-road machinery but could never find their aesthetics pleasing, the Norden 901 is the answer you’ve been looking for.

Price: $13,999

Engine: 889cc parallel twin

Power: 105 HP

Torque: 74 lbs-ft

As comfortable off road as it is on

Far more comfortable than its KTM cousins

2023 Husqvarna Norden 901 specs, features, & pics

2023 Triumph Tiger 1200

The latest in a solid family line of capable ADV machinery

You really can’t fault Triumph when they introduce a new motorcycle. Not only do they take what they learned from previous generations and evolve it, they also introduced no less than five different versions of the new 2022 Tiger 1200. Your base model is the Tiger 1200 GT , meant to be an adventure tourer, with the top of the range being the 1200 Rally Explorer that is a dirt-eating beast through and through.

All models, however, share the same 1,160cc T-plane crank triple, chucking out a modest 148 HP and a grunty 95 lb-ft of torque. What makes the differences in the models is that the GT side gets 19-inch fronts and 18-inch rears, while the Rally versions get 18-inch rears and 21-inch fronts. All of the bikes also feature a low-maintenance shaft final drive, so no chain to snap when you are a hundred miles off into the wilderness.

Also of note is that the Explorer versions (GT Explorer, Rally Explorer) are designed to be long-distance machines, as both have 9 US gallon tanks and an EPA rating of 58.8 MPG. For those that don’t want to do the math, that’s over 500 miles per tank. 500 miles. Per tank. Sign us up!

Price: $19,595 to $22,995+

Engine: 1,160cc triple

Power: 147 HP

Torque: 95 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 529 lbs

Two versions, GT and Rally, to choose from. Can also add the Explorer option to make the Tiger 1200 a long distance machine

Good grunt and power delivery across the rev range from the engine

2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT specs, features, & pics

2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally specs, features, & pics

2023 Ducati DesertX

Built to be off the road more than it is on it

For many years now, if you wanted to go adventure touring on a red rocket, you were stuck with the Multistrada or, in a pinch, the Scrambler families of bikes. That is no longer the case, as Ducati has released the new DesertX, a more-off-than-on-road adventure bike that was born from lessons learned during desert rallies, most famously the Dakar.

The Ducati DesertX was built from the ground up for rough rides, with a 21-inch front wheel, an 18-inch rear wheel, and 10 inches of ground clearance. The chassis is a double frame for added resilience and rigidity, and while it may be designed to kick up a wild rooster tail of sand, it is perfectly happy on the road as well... just not as happy as a Multistrada is.

This is also shown in that the default riding mode, of which there are six, is set to rally. This bike wants to be leaping over dunes, spraying dirt and mud behind on an adventure trail, and getting so dusty that you need a vacuum cleaner with three replacement filters just to get the seat clean. As well, it has a rally-inspired windshield that gives more than enough room for a navigation roll, and the exposed rear frame can handle pretty much any panniers or saddlebags you need.

Price: $17,695

Engine: 937cc V-Twin

Power: 110 HP

Torque: 67.8 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 492 lbs

Built from the ground up for rougher terrain and multi-day off-road trips

Excellent down-low grunt from the torquey V-Twin

2023 Ducati DesertX specs, features, & pics

2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

One of the best dedicated off-road ADV bikes in recent years, from the best ADV bike builders

Practically bred for playing in the dirt, the 2023 KTM Super Adventure R is truly a sight to behold. One look at this thing and you can be sure that KTM has put a lot of thought into developing their top-of-the-line adventure motorcycle.

As the 2022 off-road-centric brother to its 1290 Super Adventure S brother, the R version has tons of creature comforts included that tailor this bike for heavy off-road use. It retains the same 1301cc engine, but exchanges some of its touring-centric parts for ones more fitted for offroading. When looking at the S and the R next to one another, the first thing you will probably notice is the lack of a windscreen. No need to block 90mph walls of wind on the trails.

Fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension will help absorb and manage some of the ruts and crevices that one would find on a dirt trail. When you pair that with some knobby tires, you really do have a recipe for some good adventure cookin’.

Price: $20,299

Engine: 1,301cc V-Twin

Power: 160 HP

Torque: 101 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 485 lbs

Brother to the Super Adventure S, but with far more focus on off-road durability and quality of life features

Some of the best suspension in the business with WP XPLOR shocks

2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R specs, features, & pics

2023 Ducati Multistrada V2

Almost $10,000 less than the V4, yet almost equal on tech and utility, a bargain in the premium ADV segment

A humble take on Ducati’s ground-shaking Multistrada V4 ; the Multistrada V2 provides half of the engine without compromising half of the performance.

At a much lower price tag found at the expense of a 300cc drop, the 950 Multistrada’s have always managed to find their way into the shadow of its much more luxurious V4 older brother. In order to share some of the spotlights, Ducati has brought some key upgrades to this round of V2s in hope that it can stand on its own against the V4 titan.

Without a complete ground-up reinvention of their credited middleweight ADV bike, Ducati has done their part in min-maxing the V2 to squeeze every bit of performance out of the platform. The L-Twin engine lays down 113 horsepower paired with a comfortable low-end grunt provided by 71 lb-ft of torque.

A more comfortable riding position paired with a 3.7 lb unsprung weight loss and lighter clutch means that the ADV lords over at the Ducati factory have been hearing your prayers to make this Multistrada V2 the best rendition to date.

Price: $18,895

Power: 113 HP

Torque: 71 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 445 lbs

Not a cut-price V4, but a proper, well built, intelligently equipped true ADV for just about $10k less than a V4

Grunt all over the rev range and loads of power on tap by being a V-Twin

2023 Ducati Multistrada V2 specs, features, & pics

2023 KTM 890 Adventure R

A stalwart of the midrange price class. Durable, affordable, desirable.

Although the “gone but not forgotten” 790 Adventure R made a big impact on the ADV scene despite its short run, the 890 Adventure that KTM elected to take its place does just as good of a job; if not better.

The 790 was already an admirable dirt assassin, but thanks to the bump in displacement - and obvious bump in horsepower as a result - the 890 Adventure R is even better equipped for long-distance riding on the highways. 105 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque make this bike a strong middleweight ADV contender.

With other great features not often seen in the middleweight market such as an up/down quick shifter, this bike truly knows what it means to go anywhere, any time.

Price: $13,949

Power: 103 HP

Torque: 73 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 464 lbs

For those wanting to try out the ADV life on one of the most popular bikes in the business, you can't go wrong here

Tons of standard and optional equipment not seen in this lower-midrange budget bracket

2023 KTM 890 Adventure R specs, features, & pics

2023 Yamaha Ténéré 700

A strong contender in the field of middle-sized engine advs.

The only negative I can think of when it comes to the Ténéré 700 is the fact that I need to use special keys to type “Ténéré” more than once when writing this article. Going forwards we will refer to it as the T7 for that reason.

The T7 is Yamaha’s answer to the beckoning call of the middleweight ADV market. Since its initial introduction back in 2019, the T7 has already cemented itself as one of the more capable middleweight bikes on the market.

The 689cc parallel-twin engine boasts a smooth power curve suited for both on and offroad riding styles and thanks to Yamaha’s experience in developing championship-winning MX bikes you can be sure that the T7 is packed with all kinds of off-roading potential.

If you’re lucky enough to be located in Europe, you can get your hands on a Rally Edition special for 2023; pairing a heritage colorway with Yamaha’s top-of-the-line accessories. Fancy.

Price: $10,499

Engine: 689cc parallel win

Power: 74 HP

Torque: 50 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 452 lbs

Well suited to on-road riding, but willing to get its wheels dirty at a moments notice.

Strong off-roading pedigree with Yamaha's enduro and MX history of success

2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 specs, features, & pics

2023 Yamaha Tenere 700

2023 Honda Africa Twin

The King of No Roads, beating its own path with a pedigree and history all its own

There isn’t much to say here that hasn’t already been said. Born from a legendary lineage of Dakar racing, the Africa Twin is the king of off-road capability . Although it isn’t as luxurious as the Multistrada, or as fast as the 1290 Adventure R; there is a reason why the Africa Twin has faded in and out of relevance since 1988. Before becoming the CRF1000L Africa Twin in 2016, the AT originally started its life in Europe as an XRV650 Africa Twin.

Now that we’re in 2023, the Africa Twin is jampacked with features and design cues that combine to create a potent concoction that is the ‘King of No Roads’.

The fully homologated 1084cc engine churns out a bump in power equating to 104 horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque thanks to the upgrades in displacement thanks to a longer stroke for the 2023 edition.

Price: $14,499

Engine: 1,084cc parallel win

Power: 101 HP

Torque: 77.4 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 501 lbs

Combines the comfort of a sport tourer with the ruggedness of an off road ADV, and loves both environments equally

Pedigree in the form of multiple Dakar Rally top 3 placings with the homologated engine in the Africa Twin

2023 Honda Africa Twin specs, features, & pics

2023 BMW R1250 GS Adventure

A modern classic, reliable and world-famous for its durability and boxer engine

There’s that saying, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” This is especially true with the BMW 1250 GS Adventure . The twin-cylinder, 1,254cc boxer engine inside engine cage, the steeply raked windshield, the flat rear rack just begging for a top box and a pair of pannier lockers… you really can’t go wrong with any flavor of BMW GS, but the 1250 GS Adventure is their top of the line model for a reason.

The 1250 GS Adventure has a peppy 136 HP and a grunty 105 lb-ft of torque on hand, thanks to the engine characteristics of the boxer. It’s also dual-cooled, air and liquid, so even if you accidentally bash the radiator while riding, you can limp it home on air cooling alone. The TFT display is amazingly visible in all lighting conditions, there are rider modes aplenty, and the variable cam timing (what BMW labels as ShiftCam) makes sure you have power when you need it, and grunt when you need it, and both when you’re riding along standing on the pegs as the bike conquers the trail beneath its wheels.

Price: $20,745

Engine: 1,254cc boxer twin

Power: 136 HP

Torque: 105 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 549 lbs

One of the most well loved ADV bikes in the world, with its comfort, reliability, and fame from around the world level adventures all playing a part

One of the few bikes still in the ADV market that utilizes a boxer twin to keep the weight low and the bike agile despite its weight

2023 BMW R1250 GS Adventure specs, features, & pics

2023 BMW F850 GS/GS Adventure

The little brother to the r1250 gs adventure, but still just as capable.

Don't have the confidence for a 1250cc engine or $20,000 in the bank to make your ADV dreams become a reality? BMW has kindly provided the world with an 850cc version of their award-winning 1250GS in the form of the F850GS and F850GS GSA (depending on if you want an on-road or off-road centered model).

The robust Parallel Twin engine configuration lends itself to ample power straight from the tap; capable of producing 90 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque for smooth and agile power when getting out of off-road messes.

If difficult to list off the available features on the F850Gs because that is heavily dependent on which of the three trim options you end up settling on… But it is important to note that the $3100 premium package adds semi-active electronic suspension, a flawless quick-shifter, and keyless operation among other small things.

The 2023 version of this bike bikes virtually no changes to the motorcycle at all beyond some features being slid around BMW’s clever pricing ladder for this model.

2023 BMW F850 GS/GS Adventure specs, features, & pics

2023 BMW F850 GS Adventure

2023 Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

Just when you thought that the decade that is the 2020s couldn’t get weirder, as you’ve probably heard, Harley Davidson decided to completely pivot their entire business model and targeted demographics and now offers an ADV bike. Go figure.

With H-D being America’s bread-winning motorcycle manufacturer for the better part of a century, they definitely had enough capital to develop this bike and add as much ADV prowess to the new platform as they’d like.

The Pan America 1250 Special comes complete with semi-active suspension controlled by a 6-axis IMU, 7 rider modes, a giant full-color TFT display, and a brand new torque-heavy Revolution Max 1250 V-Twin motor capable of 94 lb-ft of torque.

With this bike generating so many headlines through its production process due to its strange styling and un-Harley-like roots, we’re more than excited to get our hands on one so we can see for ourselves if the Pan America 1250 Special really lives to its hype.

Price: $20,399

Engine: 1,252cc V-Twin

Power: 150 HP

Torque: 94 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 559 lbs

While the regular Pan American is capable, the Special is where all the fun gadgets and toys are located to make it a competent and capable multi-day tripper off the beaten path

As with most Harley's, unparalleled grunt from idle to redline with the V-Twin

2023 Harley Davidson Pan American 1250 Special specs, features, & pics

2023 Harley Davidson Pan American 1250 Special

2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 S

The undisputed King of premium ADV bikes

We’ve already covered the Multistrada V2 in this article, so what’s this “V4” we keep referring to? Meet the Italian grand-daddy of ADV touring motorcycles, Ducati’s Multistrada V4 S . With it being first introduced to the world in 2021, Ducati packaged this new model with tons of industry-leading technology such as radar sensors to monitor traffic conditions for its highly advanced cruise control system.

To add to the laundry list of trick tech you can find on this model, the new V4 S for 2023 comes with a semi-auto ride-height function which allows the bike to raise or lower itself at the discretion of the computer and sensors.

The main ingredient of this Italian mud-cake would obviously be the non-desmo 1158cc V4 engine capable of producing a staggering 170 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque (boasting power figures quite unheard of for a motorcycle designed to take the occasional backroads and pathways).

ADV riding doesn’t get much more luxurious than this.

Price: $27,195

Engine: 1,158cc V4

Power: 170 HP

Torque: 92 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 481 lbs

Has every bell and whistle you could possibly need with the base V4 S, and things you might want with packages like the Pikes Peak Edition and Rally Edition

Despite its massive power and torque, is still capable of handling any off-road duties without issue

2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 S specs, features, & pics

2023 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally

Designed to compete with the likes of the aforementioned BMW F850GSA, Triumph brings a little piece of their British heart to the mid-displacement ADV market with their Tiger 900 Rally.

Like many of these ADV models riding the recent boom of popularity, the Tiger 900 Rally made its official debut in 2020 and has already seen a few rounds of fine-tuning and revisions.

The Tiger 900 wasn’t just a tuned-up Tiger 800 (now discontinued), this is a completely new bike with not a single part spared from the 800’s dead corpse. With Triumph having the ability to create a completely new bike from scratch, they were sure to not leave a single stone unturned when building this highly-capable off-road monster.

The 888cc Inline-Three engine featured in the Tiger 900 Rally is capable of producing 94 horsepower and 64 lb-ft of torque. Beyond the sturdy engine, the bike comes complete with a beautiful TFT display, a dizzying amount of rider modes to use depending on the environment you’re riding in, and even a special James Bond edition that was a limited release in 2022.

Price: $15,695

Engine: 888cc triple

Power: 94 HP

Torque: 64 lbs-ft

Curb Weight: 432 lbs

Smaller brother to the Tiger 1200, and is a direct competitor to the BMW F850 with more standard features

Rock-solid triple cylinder engine for all day riding without worry

2023 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally specs, features, & pics

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The Best Adventure Motorcycles You Can Buy Right Now

By: Tim Huber Published: Jun 13, 2023

While scramblers and even purpose-built motocrossers had already existed since the ‘50s and ‘60s, it wasn’t until 1980 that BMW Motorrad introduced the world to what’s widely considered to be the first-ever adventure motorcycle with the R80 GS — a ruggedized R80-engined mount that would quickly prove its worth with a victory at the infamous Dakar Rally only a year after its reveal. Since that time, the segment has enormously evolved, ultimately blossoming into one of today’s most popular segments in motorcycling. This enormous interest in the adventure bike class has prompted the majority of major moto manufacturers to toss their respective hats into the ADV ring, resulting in the most diverse and abundant adventure motorcycle market of all time.

While this growing class gives interested buyers more options than ever before, it can also make it difficult to sort through the more than five dozen ADV bikes that currently constitute the market. To help simplify this increasingly complex space, we’ve pored over the segment to highlight the best adventure motorcycles currently in production — counting down our picks for the very best across the entire class, while also delving into what defines an adventure motorcycle, what makes each bike on our list unique, how to find the adventure bike that’s right for you, and what to look for when shopping.

Article Overview

KTM 390 Adventure SW

Yamaha ténéré 700 world raid, bmw r 1250 gs adventure, ducati desertx, royal enfield himalayan, husqvarna norden 901 expedition, ktm 1290 super adventure r, harley-davidson pan america 1250 special, energica experia green tourer, what exactly is an adventure bike, how to find the adventure motorcycle that’s right for you, what to look for an adv bike, the best adventure motorcycle rundown.

Best Entry-Level Pick

Best Mid-Sized Pick

Best Full-Size Pick

Best EV Pick

Best Overall Pick

Ducati DesertX

• Based on KTM’s proven 390 platform
• Equipped w/ premium componentry
• Loaded w/ advanced tech, rider aids, & switchable ABS
• Sports modern Dakar raider-inspired bodywork
• Comes standard w/ hand-guards, skid-plate, rear rack, & other ADV-focused items
• Expensive price

Best Entry-Level Pick: After years of the motorcycling public clamoring for an adventure version of KTM’s 390 platform, the Ready To Race brand finally deployed the 390 Adventure, equipping the 373.2cc-engined Austrian moto with more than 170mm of suspension travel front and aft, a skid plate, and sharp Kiska-designed adventure-style bodywork. Now offered in an SW (spoked wheel) version, the 390 Adventure also sports a host of other high-end amenities including a slipper clutch, WP suspension, lean-angle-sensitive traction control, off-road and cornering ABS, and multiple ride modes, including a decimated off-road map. And while it isn’t the cheapest option, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better entry-level motorcycle in the ADV class than KTM’s 390.

Engine: Liquid-Cooled DOHC 373.2cc Single-Cylinder Power: 43hp & 27.3ft-lbs Weight: 355LBS Suspension Travel: 170mm Front / 178 Rear Ground Clearance: 200mm MSRP: $7,399

• Hardcore turnkey rally-spec version of what was already one of the best ADV bikes
• Equipped w/ numerous components from the GYTR parts bin
• Larger tank offers over 300 miles of range between fill-ups
• Has nearly 10” of clearance & 9” of travel
• Livery inspired by Gauloises-sponsored Dakar Rally racers from ‘80s & 90s
• Not sold in U.S. market

Best Mid-Sized Pick: The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is already one of the most competent, off-road-capable adventure motorcycles in existence — made all the more impressive by the fact it costs roughly half of the segment’s full-sized class leaders. Born out of a beyond extensive real-world testing and development program, the Ténéré 700 packs the FZ/MT-07’s proven 689cc liquid-cooled CP2 parallel-twin, affording it ample power and torque while still weighing around 450lbs. Blurring the line between an adventure bike and dual-sport, the T7 also boasts an MX-style seat, proper off-road ergonomics, and slim bodywork, along with a Dakar-style navigation tower housing premium LED headlights and LCD gauges. Never one to rest on its laurels, the Tuning Fork company has recently introduced an even more capable World Raid-spec variant that gains an Öhlins steering damper, rally-spec fully adjustable long-travel KYB suspension with an inverted Kashima-coated fork, long-range dual side-mounted fuel tanks, a three-mode switchable ABS, a rally-style two-piece seat, and one of two different variant-exclusive livery options. This bike doesn’t just look the part, as the Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid is truly a real-deal hardcore off-road adventure machine, sharing much of its DNA with legimtate Dakar-style rally raid racers. 

Engine: Liquid-Cooled 689cc Parallel-Twin Power: 73.4HP & 50FT-LBs Curb Weight: 485LBs Suspension Travel: 230mm Front / 220mm Rear Ground Clearance: 255mm MSRP: $14,500

• Latest successor to what’s widely considered first ever adventure motorcycle (the R80 G/S)
• Enormously popular, premium adventure tourer in off-road-specific trim level
• Benefits from BMW’s ShiftCam variable valve timing tech
• Shaft drive requires far less maintenance compared to belt or chain
• Comes standard w/ skid plate & full suite of crash bars
• Absolutely enormous upgrades & aftermarket parts availability
• Heavy curb weight at approximately 600lbs
• Requires upgrades to extract full off-reading capabilities

Best Full-Size Pick: The latest iteration of the adventure motorcycle that kicked off the segment some four decades ago, the 2021 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is the Bavarian brand’s dirt-ready full-sized GS variant. On top of getting hard cases, crash bars, a skid plate, and a variety of other off-road parts, the big GS retains all of the base model’s mechanical and technological bells and whistles like the BMW’s variable camshaft control system, adaptive headlights, DTC and ABS Pro brakes, an adjustable windscreen, TFT display, 7.9-gallon tank, BMW’s Cruising Light-equipped LED indicators and a heated seat . Benefitting from literally forty years of research and development and real-world high-level competition, there’s a very good reason that BMW’s R 1250 GS and its predecessors are such immensely popular choices among seasoned adventure riders and long-distance tourers.

Engine: Air & Liquid-Cooled 1,254cc DOHC Boxer Twin Power: 136hp & 105ft-lbs Curb Weight: 591lbs Suspension Travel: 210mm Front / 220mm Rear Ground Clearance: 185mm MSRP: $20,345

• Zero’s first-ever purpose-built adventure motorcycle
• EV powertrain requires minimal maintenance
• Chassis engineered specifically for on/off-road riding
• Can receive 95% charge in as little as 1 hour
• Optional Power Tank upgrade unlocks 21-kWh charging capacity
• Must be charged & can’t have tank refilled when off-grid
• Limited suspension travel compared to more off-road-focused ADV models

Best EV Pick: As a company that was founded by a former NASA engineer, it’s frankly unsurprising that Zero Motorcycle produces some of the most state-of-the-art and technologically-advanced electric bikes on the planet — with the California company’s all-new Zero DSR/X adventure motorcycle being far from an exception. Constructed around an all-new frame designed specifically for adventure riding, the DSR/X features a Z-Force 75-10 passively air-cooled, torque-optimized interior permanent magnet AC motor making 100hp and 166ft-lbs of torque, plus a Z-Force 17.3-kWh battery pack that offers a combined range of 134 miles.Running off of Zero’s state-of-the-art CYPHER III+ operating system, the DSR/X also boasts an inverted 47mm Showa Separate Function Cartridge Fork and a 46mm mono-shock that both offer 7.48” of travel and are adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound damping. Tech on this electric adventure model includes Bosch Advanced MSC with Combined Braking, off-road route planning, Vehicle Hold Control, connectivity to a dedicated app, and a dedicated Off-Road mode. 

Engine: Electric Interior PMAC Motor Power: 100HP & 166FT-LBs Curb Weight: 544LBs Suspension Travel: 190mm Front / 190mm Rear Ground Clearance: 246.3mm MSRP: $24,495

• Purpose-built cutting-edge mid-sized ADV bike dressed in ‘90s Dakar-inspired bodywork
• Sold w/ optional crash bars & tail-mounted auxiliary fuel tank
• Retains Ducati’s classic razor-sharp on-road cornering
• Fantastic ergonomics
• Now offered in Audi’s RS Q e-tron Dakar racer’s RR22 livery
• Minimal aftermarket part availability

Best Overall Pick: Originally breaking cover as a render in 2019 before being revealed in concept form in April of 2020, the Ducati DesertX is the Borgo Panigale’s first-ever attempt at a hardcore off-road-focused adventure motorcycle. Utilizing the same 110-hp 937cc Testastretta 11° Desmodromic engine as the Multistrada V2  (and base model Monster), the DesertX features a completely novel chassis design engineered for go-anywhere riding. Riding on an all-terrain 21” front, 18” rear wheel set, the frame is paired with a long travel Kayaba suspension setup affording 9” of travel in front and 8.66” out back. The framework and engine come cloaked in a retro-inspired set of Dakar-style bodywork that takes aesthetic  inspiration from the Ducati-powered racers that won the Dakar Rally in ’90 and ’94. Available with a host of optional add-ons including a suite of aluminum hard luggage and a supplementary 8-liter fuel cell, the DesertX also boasts a rally-style exhaust, a six-axis Bosch IMU-regulated electronics package, a quick-shifter,  9.84” of ground clearance, Brembo M50 monobloc brakes, a skid plate, a 5” TFT display, and half-a-dozen riding modes — two of which are dedicated off-road modes. 

Engine: Liquid-Cooled 937cc L-Twin Power: 110HP & 68FT-LBs Dry Weight: 445LBs Suspension Travel: 230mm Front / 220mm Rear Ground Clearance: 250mm MSRP: $17,095

Supplementary Selections

Runner-Up Adventure Motorcycle Picks

While we’ve now gone over our absolute favorite adventure bikes on the market, the reality is they aren’t the only available options that are worth considering. Below, we’ve compiled a handful of additional selections to supplement our five favorite models above.

First launched in 2016, Royal Enfield’s Himalayan represented a rugged yet rudimentary, back-to-basics take on a modern ADV bike, employing a simple air-cooled single-cylinder engine housed in a half-duplex split cradle frame in lieu of the tech-laden big-bore multi-cylinder engines found in the lion’s share of models that comprised the segment. Despite the thumper’s displacement, the Himalayan is still good for freeway travel, and while it is short on tech — a fact that’s reflected in the sub-$5,000 motorcycle’s MSRP — this model does come equipped with Royal Enfield’s new Bluetooth-connected “Tripper” onboard navigation assistant and system.

Engine: Air-Cooled 411cc SOHC Single-Cylinder Power: 24.3hp & 23.6ft-lbs Curb Weight: 438lbs Suspension Travel: 200mm Front / 180mm Rear Ground Clearance: 220mm MSRP: $5,449

 Easily one of the most hyped and hotly-anticipated new adventure bike releases in recent years, Husqvarna’s Norden 901 quickly proved itself as one of the most capable mid-sized ADV models on the market, though in a bid to bolster its go-anywhere capabilities, the Swedish marque has opted to outfit the 901 with a host of off-road and travel accessories and upgrades as standard, transforming the bike into a turnkey all-terrain overlander. Cloaked in a new topographical-themed livery — a motif that also adorns the 36-liter soft rear luggage included on the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition is powered by the parallel-twin used in KTM’s 890 platform — a liquid-cooled 889cc mill putting down 105hp and 74ft-lbs of torque. Additionally, the Expedition-spec Norden also comes loaded with an aluminum skid plate, a host of advanced tech, connectivity to a dedicated smartphone app, a touring windscreen, multiple ride modes including off-road modes, an off-road ABS function, and WP XPLOR suspension (and steering damper) affording 9.44” of travel fore and aft. 

Engine: Liquid-Cooled 889cc Parallel-Twin Power: 105HP & 74FT-LBs Weight: 473LBs Suspension Travel: 240mm Front / 240mm Rear Ground Clearance: 270mm MSRP: $15,799

For its latest model year, KTM took its already class-leading R-spec 1290 Super Adventure, and treated the Austrian adventure bike to a top-to-bottom redesign, bestowing the V-Twin-engined on/off-roader with a new frame paired with a longer swing-arm, a 7” TFT display, top-shelf Alpina and WP componentry, a revised powertrain with lighter cases, upgraded pistons, and a reworked exhaust, and a suite of cutting-edge rider aides regulated via a new 6-axis lean angle sensor, like motor slip regulation, off-road traction control, and hill hold control. Sporting completely revised bodywork, the lighter and even more capable 2023 1290 Super Adventure R boasts the world-class performance that one would expect from a manufacturer that’s bagged an unprecedented 18 consecutive wins at the Dakar Rally.

Engine: Liquid-Cooled 1,301cc DOHC 75° V-Twin Power: 160hp & 101.8ft-lbs Dry Weight: 487.2lbs Suspension Travel: 220mm Front / 220mm Rear Ground Clearance: 242mm Purchase: $20,299

A major step in a new direction for the Harley-Davidson Motor Co , the Pan America is the Black and Orange’s first-ever purpose-built adventure model and is powered by a much more potent, modern, and sophisticated V-Twin that pumps out 150hp and 94ft-lbs of torque. On top of 211mm of ground clearance, the Pan America also sports 190.5mm of suspension travel front and back. The $2,680 premium over the base model for the Special-spec of the Pan America (seen above) gets you a slew of off-road-focused hardware and features such as a real-time tire pressure monitoring system, a center stand, a multi-position rear brake pedal, brush Guard, an aluminum Skid Plate, an adaptive Daymaker headlight, hand wind deflectors, heated grips, a steering damper, semi-active front and rear suspension with the Bar and Shield brand’s Vehicle Load Control and an Adaptive Ride Height system, and optional tubeless spoked wheels.

Engine: Air & Liquid-Cooled 1,254cc DOHC Boxer Twin Power: 102HP & 664FT-LBS Curb Weight: 573lbs Suspension Travel: 150mm Front / 150mm Rear Ground Clearance: 185mm MSRP: $20,399

Thanks to a 261-mile range, the Energica Experia Green Tourer stands as the world’s first true touring-capable electric motorcycle. Made in Italy, this battery-powered adventure bike boasts a slew of impressive specs including a 3.5-second 0-60mph time and a 112-mph top speed courtesy of a redesigned PMASynRM motor cranking out 102hp and an otherworldly 664ft-lbs of torque. Making the bike all the more conducive to touring and long—distance riding are multiple USB outlets and a set of side hard panniers and a top case that collectively afford a cool 112 liters of storage space. 

Engine: Air & Liquid-Cooled 1,254cc DOHC Boxer Twin Power: 102HP & 664FT-LBS Curb Weight: 573lbs Suspension Travel: 150mm Front / 150mm Rear Ground Clearance: 185mm MSRP: $23,750

As the class’s name suggests, adventure motorcycles are versatile machines built for near-unlimited two-wheeled freedom. Like dual-sports and enduros, adventure bikes are purpose-engineered for both on and off-road riding, and, as such, feature long-travel suspension, ruggedized and often fortified frames and powertrains, upright riding positions that are incredibly conducive to standing up on the pegs, (typically) spoked wheels in off-road-oriented sizes (such as 21”/18” or 19”/17”), and full or partial sets of bodywork that almost always sport tall windscreens, navigation towers, and other elements borrowed from Dakar-style rally raid bikes. It’s also common to see more off-road-focused specs of adventure models that come equipped with hard luggage, additional crash protection, auxiliary lighting, and other amenities for when the tarmac ends

In addition to wearing Dakar-style bodywork in favor of motocross-style plastics, adventure motorcycles tend to be markedly more touring-friendly than their on and off-road-friendly enduro and dual-sport counterparts — usually thanks to bigger, more powerful engines that enable ADV mounts to lend themselves much better to freeway travel. Adventure bikes also frequently feature large, extended-range fuel cells, allowing for ample autonomy between trips to the pump. Because these machines are designed for long-range use, they also tend to be incredibly reliable, with bullet-proof engines that boast services intervals of more than 10,000 miles.

Traditionally, the bikes that we define as adventure motorcycles have been of the big-bore variety, with displacements at or above the one-liter mark — with smaller engines also historically helping to differentiate dual-sports from full-sized adventure bikes — though in more recent years we’ve seen smaller-engined options (as well as a myriad of mid-sized models) with crash protection, long-travel suspension, unmistakable ADV-style bodywork, and other traits that place them squarely into the adventure motorcycle category. And while it makes them substantially more freeway-capable, the larger engines — which then require the bike to have a larger chassis, larger suspension, larger brakes, etc — add a considerable amount of weight, making them more difficult to negotiate off-road terrain compared to lightweight dual-sports or regular dirtbikes .

Often borrowing much of their chassis, powertrain, electronics, and suspension development straight from factory MotoGP and Dakar Rally teams, adventure motorcycles often represent the flagship offerings of major moto marques, and as a result are often bestowed with the latest and greatest, most cutting-edge powertrains and technologies. This makes adventure motorcycles some of the most advanced, high-performance bikes in existence, though state-of-the-art tech like electronically adjustable and/or active suspension coupled with large-displacement multi-cylinder engines also make adventure motorcycles one of the most expensive segments in the two-wheeled realm.

Because of their robust suspension, upright powerful engines, and a suite of protection, adventure motorcycles are also wildly versatile, and lend themselves tremendously well to just about any riding application, from fire trail exploration to cross-continent touring to moto camping. Their upright riding position also makes adventure bikes a stellar choice for urban commuting duties. And, while you may not guess it from looking, when properly set up, adventure motorcycles can offer some shockingly high performance on the road — as evidenced by a mostly-stock Ducati Multistrada 1260 winning the 2018 motorcycle class at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

There are dozens of adventure motorcycles in production right now, which can make finding the right bike intimidating — and that’s before you start factoring in the even more abundant used motorcycle market . To help start your search, begin by narrowing down your selection of bikes based on your skill level and riding experience. If you’re new to riding or have no experience off-road, then you’ll want to steer clear from full-size models, as they’re much harder to wrestle around and control. You can always upgrade to a larger, more powerful model later on down the road

Next, you’ll want to factor in your intended use. By looking at how much time you plan on riding on-road versus off-road, you should be able to narrow down your search to models designed for your intended riding applications. On top of often sporting elements like sump-guards, crash bars, hard luggage, and auxiliary lighting, the more off-road-focused adventure motorcycles will also feature better ground clearance and markedly longer suspension travel.

You’ll also want to consider how much freeway travel you plan on doing, as this will help determine which engine size will be appropriate (though again, new riders should avoid big-bore models). Mid-sized adventure bikes are also a fantastic option, as they offer a compromise with less weight than big-bore models — and therefore better off-road prowess — while still being plenty free-way travel capable. Likewise, we’d also highly recommending exploring potential used bike options, as it can be a great way to save — especially when dealing with a low-mile example or one that’s still under its factory warranty .

Now that you’re clued into what an adventure bike is and have a better sense of how to go about finding the model that’s right for you, let’s delve into the ten main areas to take into consideration before heading down to your local dealership.

Engine: As the heart of the motorcycle, an ADV moto’s engine is of utmost importance. As per usual, you’ll want to look into the engine configuration and the number of cylinders, displacement, cam setup, and fueling and cooling systems. You’ll also want to not only pay attention to how much horsepower and torque a given engine produces but also how much the motorcycle weighs as well — as a motorcycle’s power-to-weight ratio will give a much better sense of real-world abilities than simply seeing its number of ponies on paper.

Technology: Representing some of the most advanced motorcycles on earth, modern adventure bikes must be able to contend with an enormous variety of settings and conditions. In a bid to help make it easier to navigate one of these approximately 500lb machines both on and off-road , manufacturers have routinely started bestowing high-end ADV models with electronically-regulated active/adaptive suspension, live tire pressure monitoring systems, vehicle hill and hold control, adaptive headlights, electronically adjustable windscreens, heated (and sometimes cooled) seats and grips, multiple ride modes, adjustable traction control, and cornering ABS, just to name a few.

Off-Road Readiness: Separating ADV mounts from full-size sport-touring bikes is the former’s off-road prowess. Despite their hefty curb weight, many adventure bikes are capable of affording solid dirt-going capabilities thanks to advanced chassis designs paired with long-travel suspension and a generous amount of ground clearance. Alongside luggage, crash protection, and auxiliary lighting, other elements that point to a given model being more off-road-capable include spoked wheels, knobby tires, tall windscreens, toothed footpegs, and “beak-style” integrated front fenders.

Weight: Though there are smaller displacement exceptions and outliers, most adventure motorcycles tend to be on the heavy side, tipping the scales at or around the 500lb mark. This makes for a wonderfully planted ride in town or on the freeway, though it can make things difficult in the dirt — especially for less experienced off-road riders. We strongly encourage anyone even considering buying an adventure bike to first hit a dealership and experience what it feels like to operate one of these machines before going any further.

Storage: Because adventure bikes are designed for long-range use, it’s frankly unsurprising that manufacturers would opt to bestow many of these models with storage compartments — often under the seat or tank cover — that make life on the road easier. What’s more, there’s an enormous range of aftermarket storage options for practically every ADV model, including tank and tail bags, soft cases, panniers, and so on.

Range: If you plan on taking on long-distance treks or spending much of your time out on the trails, off of the grid, then fuel economy and tank size (aka range) will be an important factor to take into consideration. Fortunately, these freedom machines are built for untethered exploration and as such tend to come equipped with generously sized fuel cells. Some models even sport supplementary tanks under the seat or in other non—traditional locations on the bike.

Style: Though they all have a similar basic shape, adventure bikes can vary pretty hugely aesthetically, with some models taking inspiration from their respective manufacturer’s sport and superbike family, and others going with a more traditional Dakar-style design. It’s also worth mentioning that there are plenty of riders that like the look of adventure bikes, and opt to purchase and ride them despite having little to no intention of ever going off-road. Just like buying a pickup because you dig the aesthetic, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out an ADV bike for this reason, though we’d just recommend considering some of the more road-focused models.

Available Factory Amenities: Again, as the flagship offering from many of their manufacturers, adventure bikes tend to come outfitted with more bells and whistles than any other class of motorcycle. These optional add-ons include heated grips and seats, luggage, auxiliary lighting, crash protection, upgraded pillions, spoked wheel options, and connectivity to smartphone apps, among many, many more.

Aftermarket Availability: Not unlike the aftermarket overland sector has exploded for trucks over the last decade, so too has the aftermarket realm embraced the influx in popularity in the adventure bike market, resulting in an absolutely enormous array of available add-ons and upgrades from third party companies. You can find almost any aftermarket part you could possibly need for just about any ADV bike model, though some of the more popular mounts — like BMW’s GS range and KTM’s top-of-the-line 1290 Super Adventure R — will come with markedly more options. Many of these aftermarket items are more affordable than factory options — and at times better quality, too — though they aren’t backed by a factory warranty like the factory-installed add-ons are.

Servicing Costs & Intervals: In addition to the motorcycle itself, you’ll also want to factor in a given bike’s cost of ownership. This means looking into costs for things like insurance and maintenance, as well as what service intervals there are and what work is required when the time comes. The good news is that now, more than ever, adventure motorcycles — and motorcycles in general — are offering better reliability, fewer emissions, more power, and longer service intervals than ever before.

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Over every hill, and around every corner, there’s a story waiting to be discovered. And our Adventure lineup is designed to help you chase down your greatest dreams and adventures, one ride at a time. And here’s the best news: there’s a wide range of bikes, no matter how big or small your adventures are. Each one is loaded with the reliability, innovation, quality and value that have made Honda famous. Where will your next adventure take you? We have the right bike to get you there.

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Best adventure motorbikes of 2023

Let’s clear the air before we start; any motorbike can be used to go on an adventure. This page, however, will concentrate on the adventure bike market sector that covers mostly middle and heavyweight machines with at least some off-road capability and a nod to comfort over distance.

The obvious king of the sector is the BMW R1250GS – and, of course, the previous versions all the way back to the original top dog of the ‘big trailies’, the R80GS of 1980.

Over time, adventure bikes got bigger, heavier, more expensive and more tarmac-focused and this is where the middleweight versions came into play. These include the 2022 MCN adventure bike of the year-winning Ducati DesertX , Yamaha Ténéré 700 , KTM 890 Adventure , Aprilia Tuareg 660 and the latest models on the scene – the 2023 Honda Transalp and Suzuki V-Strom 800DE .

• Related: Best adventure motorbike clothing

Suzuki V-Strom 800DE

Spec : 776cc / 83bhp / 230kg / 855mm seat height

Price: £10,655

The V-Strom 800DE is the first version of Suzuki’s adventure bike to use a parallel-twin engine. The new motor uses a 270-degree crank to behave more like the previously-used V-twin and has a twin balance shaft design to minimise vibration.

The 800DE is more off-road capable than its 650cc predecessor but it’s still predominantly a road bike – where it is excellent.

• Suzuki V-Strom 800DE review

Honda XL750 Transalp

Spec : 755cc / 91bhp / 208kg / 850mm seat height

Price: £9499

Released shortly after the Suzuki V-Strom above and after years of speculation and spyshots, the Honda Transalp hasn’t disappointed. Chief road tester Michael Neeves gave it a maximum five stars overall and was really impressed by the lively engine and excellent road handling.

As with the V-Strom, the Honda is predominantly a road bike with some off-road capability but if you’re looking for a truly focused mud plugger then buy an enduro bike .

• Honda Transalp review

More of the best adventure bikes in 2023

• Triumph Tiger 900
• KTM 790 Adventure
• Yamaha Ténéré 700
• BMW R1250GS Adventure
• Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport
• Honda CB500X
• Honda NC750X
• Ducati Multistrada 950 S
• Triumph Tiger 800 XC
• KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

2020 Triumph Tiger 900

Spec : 888cc / 94bhp / 201kg / 850mm seat height

Price : £12,000 (used) – £13,100 (new)

For 2020, Triumph replaced their 800cc Tiger range with a new 900cc family of bikes. The Rally and Rally Pro models are the off road versions while the GT and GT Pro are for tarmac-based excersions. The new bike uses an innovative T-plane crank design in its three-cylinder engine to emulate the firing order of a V-twin for low and mid-range grunt without sacrificing top end power.

Not only did the new Tiger receive a five-star review from MCN, the Rally Pro model also took the 2020 Bike of the Year crown in the MCN Awards.

• Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro review

2019 KTM 790 Adventure

Spec : 799cc / 93.8bhp / 189kg / 850mm seat height

Price : £9500 (used) – £11,099 (new)

No motorcycle manufacturer has a better off-road pedigree than Austrian specialists KTM and, following the success of its big bore V-twin adventure bikes, its new middleweight parallel twin has enhanced its reputation further. With the lively engine from the 790 Duke , sophisticated electronics and quality spec including full colour TFT dash it’s a quality offering befitting its price and with off-road ability few rivals can match.

• Latest news: KTM launch 890 Adventure range

Two versions are available: the base, more road-orientated Adventure and the more hardcore, off-road R with top spec longer suspension, one-piece seat, low screen, high mudguard and extra Rally riding mode for £900 more. Both are brilliant, but if off-roading’s less important there are cheaper options.

BUYING ADVICE  So new (it was launched in 2019), few used examples are out there but we’ve seen ex-dealer demos already for as little as £9500. 790 Duke powertrain has no scare stories and KTMs are generally solid but watch out for off-roading scars.

• Read MCN’s full review of ther KTM 790 Adventure

2019 Yamaha Ténéré 700

Spec : 689cc / 73bhp / 205kg / 880mm seat height

Price : £8199 (used) – £8399 (new)

Yamaha’s new-for-2019 take on the middleweight adventure bike theme follows a similar path to KTM’s 790 Adventure in being an off-road-focused machine derived from a road middleweight twin; in this case Yamaha’s brilliant MT-07 . Rally styling apart, though, the Yamaha’s a less sophisticated, more affordable option, free of electronics and fancy TFTs but still with engaging road performance and even better off-road ones. If you want an adventure bike with which to genuinely explore off-roading there’s nothing better.

BUYING ADVICE  Like its KTM rival, the Ténéré 700 is so new there are few used examples on offer yet… although we have seen a handful. MT-07 mechanicals are proven but watch out for evidence of novice and off-road mishaps.

• Read MCN’s full review of the Yamaha Tenere 700

2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure

Spec : 1254cc / 134bhp / 268kg / 890-910mm seat height

Price : £16,400 (used, loaded) – £14,415 (new, basic)

The big GSA should need little introduction: The first 1150, in 2002, set the big tank/off-road enhancements ‘adventure’ template and found fame via Ewan and Charley’s Long Way Round. It’s been a best-seller ever since, was updated in 2006, 2010 and 2014 and for 2019 gains an extra 84cc, 11bhp and BM’s clever, performance-boosting ShiftCam technology, along with classy colour TFT screen, LED lights and more. A big, comfy, sporty, flexible and classy all-rounder, the improvements are enough to keep it on top – but it is big and, depending on spec, can be pricey, too.

BUYING ADVICE  BMW’s famed residual values, owner profiles and dealer experience means used GSAs are a popular (and wise) used buy. If cosmetics are good, there’s little to fear but options are huge so be sure to find one with the spec you want.

• Read MCN’s full review of the BMW R1250GSA

2019 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports

Spec : 998cc / 94bhp / 243kg / 900mm seat height

Price : £8750 (used) – £12,599 (new)

The return of Honda’s famous Africa Twin after over 20 years in 2016 was largely a success and, with its 94bhp twin, genuine on/off-road ability and slightly more middleweight proportions compared to some, proved a refreshing, well-positioned option. For 2019 this new Adventure Sports option gave it more presence, range and style thanks to a bigger tank and improved, longer-travel suspension, even if it still lacks some of the electronics and luxuries of some rivals. If you like Honda refinement, quality and the Africa Twin backstory and want a genuine dual-purpose adventure bike, it doesn’t disappoint.

BUYING ADVICE  More already available than you might expect – although many are Honda’s clever ‘DCT’ auto version. Quality and mechanicals are class with no concerns, extras such as luggage are always welcome. Don’t forget there’s a new Honda Africa Twin for 2020 , too…

2014 Honda CB500X

Spec : 471cc / 47bhp / 197kg / 830mm seat height

Price : £2750+ (used) – £6069 (new)

First introduced in 2013 as the adventure-style variant of Honda’s all-new, A2-focused, 47bhp CB500 twin (the others being the CB500F roadsters and CBR500R sports), the X was the taller, more upright option, but still a doddle for novices. A refresh came in 2015 followed by a further update this year, including larger 19in front wheel, new bodywork, engine tweaks and smart new clocks. Although no off-roader, it remains probably the best starter adventure bike out there and is affordable, reassuringly easy and unintimidating to ride and decent quality.

The CB500X took MCN’s sub 500cc Bike of the Year Award in 2020 , too.

BUYING ADVICE  Simple, understressed and with no mechanical horror stories in its six-year life, the CB500X is also popular so there’s plenty to choose from. They tend to be looked after but watch for novice-style neglect and possible damage.

• Read MCN’s full review of the Honda CB500X

2014 Honda NC750X

Spec : 745cc / 54bhp / 229kg / 830mm seat height

Price : £3600 (used) – £6879 (new)

First introduced as the NC700X in 2012 then facelifted and enlarged into 750 form in 2014, the NCX is an adventure-style commuter with more than a little scooter DNA. Novel design gives a luggage compartment in the false tank while a scooter-style twist-n-go DCT automatic version is also available. With just 54bhp it’s not the most exciting adventure bike, admittedly, but it’s effective, charming, easy to ride and impressively cheap to buy and run.

• Latest news: Honda unveil 2021 NC750X

BUYING ADVICE  Under-stressed, low-revving twin is solid and frugal, rest of bike is simple and they’re the sort of bike that tends to attract mature, careful owners. Popularity again means there’s plenty out there. Go for the DCT option if you’re feeling brave.

• Read MCN’s full review of the Honda NC750X

2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S

Spec : 937cc / 111bhp / 230kg / 840mm seat height

Price : £13,000 (used) – £13,355 (new)

There’s no argument that Ducati’s latest, range-topping Multistrada 1260 S is phenomenally capable and quick, but with 160bhp and a £17k price tag it’s also too much for some. The new 950 S has all of its big brother’s electronic brilliance (including multi modes and semi-active suspension), composure and class but with its 111bhp Hypermoto engine and £13k price is within reach of more. The ‘Strada is arguably the best road performing and sophisticated adventure bike of all. In this 950 S trim it’s more accessible than ever.

The Ducati Multistrada 950 S also took the best adventure sport category in the 2020 MCN Bike of the Year Awards .

BUYING ADVICE  So new we’ve yet to see any used examples but the 937cc engine’s proven on the Hypermotard and the rest of the chassis and cycle parts on other ‘Stradas. Condition and proper servicing is key.

• Read MCN’s full review of the Ducati Multistrada 950 S

2010 Triumph Tiger 800 

Spec : 800cc / 94bhp / 205kg / 840-860mm seat height

Price : £6700 (used) – £9200+ (new)

Although a three-cylinder adventure bike sounds odd, the Tiger 800 is a brilliant all-rounder and, in XC (cross-country) rather than XR (road) trim makes a reasonable off-roader, too. Triumph triple is a charismatic gem, handling is typically-triumph good and versatility is peerless. What’s more successive updates, most recently with improved modes, TFT screen and more in 2018 have kept it up to date plus the options list is immense. Get one with the spec you like and you won’t want for anything more.

• Latest news: Triumph unveil new entry-level Tiger 850 Sport model

BUYING ADVICE  The Hinckley Tiger has now been around since 2010 and has proved hugely popular and shown up virtually no problems. High mileages are not unusual as they’re a popular commuter but check cosmetics. Quality extras can be a bonus.

• Read the full review of the Triumph Tiger 800 XCA

2015 KTM 1290 Super Adventure 

Spec : 1301cc / 160bhp / 217kg / 890mm seat height

Price : £9500+ (used) – £14,899 (new)

The Austrian endure experts adventure bike flagship has it all: 160bhp performance, class-leading electronics, genuine off-road ability – and the whopping price tag to go with it. As a result it can do it all, too – tour, scratch and go off-road. Whether you actually need all that is a different matter and it certainly lacks the reassurance and residuals of BMW’s GS but if you can handle (and afford) it, the 1290 Super Adventure is surely some kind of ultimate.

BUYING ADVICE  There’s a variety of versions (T, S, R), KTM residuals can’t match BMWs and oil leaks and warped discs have been known with hard use. Find a good used one, though, and you could grab yourself a ballistic bargain.

• Read MCN’s full review of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure

Do I need to be an expert rider to manage an adventure bike?

Although admittedly some adventure bikes are imposing and expensive, today there’s a wider variety of sizes, types and prices than ever, ranging from budget A2-licence -compliant offerings to a new breed of off-road-centric middleweights such as Yamaha’s exciting new Ténéré 700 to luxurious, fully-laden heavyweights such as BMW’s new, ‘ShiftCam’ R1250GSA . They don’t need to be bank-breaking to buy, or indeed to insure .

What about buying a used adventure bike?

It’s possible to get your hands on a bike with with serious capability without breaking the bank, and there are plenty for sale on the MCN website too. For starters, check out our best adventure motorbikes for less than £3000 .

By Ben Clarke

Assistant Editor (Motorcycling), hick for life, two cylinders max

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Adventure Touring

With a spirit of adventure embedded within its DNA, every Yamaha Adventure bike is rugged, tough and reliable. Each Ténéré model in the Adventure segment will open up the possibilities of endless travel, and enable its rider to discover a feeling of utter freedom. The only limit is within a rider's imagination. The Next Horizon is Yours!

Adventure Touring Lineup

2023 Super Ténéré ES

Rugged, durable and built for superior long distance adventure touring and exploring beyond the pavement.

MSRP $16,299*

2023 Ténéré 700

A lightweight, no compromise adventure bike with outstanding reliability opens up a new world of possibilities.

MSRP $10,499*

2023 Off-Road Accessories Catalog

Check out all of the Off-Road accessories that Yamaha has to offer.

Moto Lifestyle Apparel

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2024 MV Agusta Enduro Veloce – First Look

2024 BMW F 800 GS, F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure Announced for USA

It took a couple of months after they were first announced internationally, but the 2024 BMW F 800 GS, F 900 GS, and F 900 GS Adventure have now been confirmed for the U.S. market. The three middleweight adventure bikes are replacing the previous F 750/850 models, and offering a smaller-displacement alternative to the flagship R 1300 GS.

2024 Yamaha Ténéré 700 First Ride

Yamaha’s popular Ténéré 700 “T7” adventure bike returns for 2024, and while it would be easy to say it is “largely unchanged” from the 2023 model, there have been some notable changes made in response to feedback from many North American riders. One wish still unrealized: the U.S. dealers won’t be getting the up-spec World Raid and numerous other versions  of the T7 the EU enjoys - at least not this year. But might that change?

2024 BMW R 1300 GS Price Leaked

Earlier this summer, BMW confirmed a new R 1300 GS model was on its way , with an official world premiere scheduled for Sept. 28. While that’s more than a month away, we now have a good idea of how much it will cost, thanks to an overzealous update on BMW’s official website.

KTM 390 Adventure: 5 Things You Need To Know

Some readers have asked us what we were thinking when we put the little KTM 390 Adventure in our South Dakota shoout  with the Aprilia Tuareg 660, the Ducati DesertX, and the BMW 1250 GS. We were saying that Adventure bikes don’t need to be big to have fun on all terrains. Significantly lighter than the other bikes in the shootout, the 390 has a lot of things going for it. The 390 Adventure has been a good seller for KTM, and we’ve really enjoyed it every time we have one in our hands. So, what makes the KTM 390 Adventure so special?

2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Aragón Edition - First Look

As we were first to report back in January, Triumph is releasing new special edition versions of the Tiger 900 to celebrate Ivan Cervantes’ win in the 2022 Baja Aragón. The new Aragón Edition Tiger 900 Rally and Tiger 900 GT models will be offered for just one year only.

Aprilia Tuareg: 5 Things You Need to Know

Last year, we voted the Aprilia Tuareg the Best Adventure Motorcycle of 2022 and the 2022 Motorcycle of the Year. Clearly, we like it, but after almost six months without riding one, we began to wonder if it was really as great as we remembered. Fortunately, we recently got to spend some quality time with a 2022 Aprilia Tuareg while adventure touring in South Dakota thanks to the good folks at Travel South Dakota , and it only rekindled our fondness for this motorcycle. This time, however, we spent more time in the dirt than we did on pavement, which only made us appreciate the balance provided by this motorcycle even more.

The 2024 BMW R 1300 GS Might Be Lighter Than We Thought

A few weeks ago, we uncovered some specifications for the yet-to-be-announced 2024 BMW R 1300 GS from Swiss homologation documents . The certification data confirmed details such as the 1,300 cc engine displacement and cited peak performance figures of 143.5 hp at 7,750 rpm and 109.9 lb-ft. at 6,500 rpm. What was less clear was how much the new GS would weigh.

An Alpine Adventure Among The Stars

Unless you’re a world-class rally racer, an afternoon spent riding with Red Bull Factory KTM’s Toby Price aboard his booming 450 isn’t a common experience. Note I said riding with , and not alongside Price. The only time I was alongside the man was when he stopped and I caught up. End the day with a cozy fireside chat including Price, Monster Energy Honda’s Ricky Brabec, and Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Skyler Howes and you’ve the ingredients for memorable uniqueness.

2024 Honda Transalp is Coming to America

The California Air Resources Board has issued an executive order for the Honda XL750 Transalp, certifying the mid-sized adventure-tourer for the 2024 model year.

2023 Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition First Look

As we expected , Husqvarna announced a new Norden 901 Expedition, adding a more adventure-capable model to its lineup. Equipped with longer-travel suspension and coming standard with a number of accessories such as waterproof luggage, the Norden 901 Expedition carries an MSRP of $15,799, a $1,300 premium over the regular Norden 901.

2023 Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition Certified by EPA

When the Husqvarna Norden 901 entered the market for 2022, one of the first things we asked was when we would see a more adventure-focused version. That is, after all, the modus operandi for Husqvarna’s sister brand, KTM , which gave the 890 Adventure an upscaled R version.

2023 Triumph Tiger 900 Aragon Edition Models Certified in Australia

Triumph is preparing to add a pair of special edition Tiger 900 models for 2023, according to updated vehicle certification data from Australia. Available for both the road-going Tiger 900 GT and the more off-road equipped Tiger 900 Rally, the special edition models are likely in recognition of Iván Cervantes’ victory for Triumph in the 2022 Baja Aragón last July.

Church of MO: 2012 BMW G650GS Sertao Review

To tell you the truth, in all the excitement, I don’t remember if I ever rode a 2012 BMW G650GS Sertao or not? Most of BMW’s attempts at middleweight adventure have been forgettable that way. But the Sertao actually comes off pretty okay in Pete’s review. And now there’s a gaping hole in BMW’s current line-up between the F750GS (which is 853 cc, don’t ask) and the rank beginner G310 GS. In any case, it sounds like a good day at the RawHyde Academy and another solid day’s work for Kevin Wing.

Church of MO: 2012 Adventure-Touring Shootout – Video

Ten years ago everybody wanted to go big, so it’s nice to see everyone coming to their senses by naming the right-sized Aprilia Tuareg MOTY 2022. If you still want to go big without breaking the bank, you could do a lot worse than a lightly used 10-year old one of these big ADV bikes (bearing in mind only one of them had cruise control). How barbaric. Duke was there, and Tom was there, Kaming Ko, and even Trizzle was there – so maybe the laddie doth protest too much about his lack of ADV experience? In the 10-minute video, they all look 10 years younger. 

MO Tested: Mosko Moto Wildcat 12L Backpack With Chest Rig

Some readers have noticed that a few of us MO rons are avid backpack users. In fact, it may have become somewhat of an addiction. The reason behind this is that motorcycle backpacks have become as specialized as motorcycles themselves, with different ones designed for different riding activities, be it day rides, adventure touring, or just commuting. Now, you don’t need a closet full of them, like Ryan, but since we are always looking for new developments in the category of gear, the Mosko Moto Wildcat 12L Backpack With Chest Rig (also available in an 8L version) caught my eye as I was preparing to ride in the 39th LA – Barstow to Vegas Dual-Sport Ride. However, it wasn’t just the plethora of features built into the bag that enticed me. Additionally, the optional attachment, the Chest Rig, that piqued my curiosity. 

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE/V-Strom 800DE Adventure First Look

The Suzuki V-Strom line is a storied one that most riders are quite familiar with, but today in Milan, Suzuki opened the next chapter: the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. While the entire bike is worthy of attention, the showstopper for the new Storms is the 766cc parallel-Twin engine. The V-Twin that gives the Strom part of its name has been assigned to the history books. So, let’s take a look at what makes this V-Strom a next generation Strom.

2023 Honda XL750 Transalp First Look

Honda has brought back the Transalp name with the new XL750 Transalp, a middleweight adventure-tourer powered by the Parallel-Twin engine introduced on the Hornet CB750.

2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 First Look

Yamaha Motor Europe announced updates to the Ténéré 700 , giving the middleweight ADV bike a TFT display, smartphone connectivity, a new ABS mode and other small updates. As of this writing, the 2023 Ténéré 700 has not been announced for the U.S., though we expect to receive official news soon. The Ténéré 700 Rally Edition variant offered in Europe (pictured below with the Heritage White livery) also received the same updates, but we don’t expect that it will be offered on these shores.

2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally - First Look

Ducati revealed a new Multistrada V4 Rally in the latest episode of its 2023 World Première web series. And while the model name hints at improved off-road capability, the V4 Rally’s feature list leans more for long distance travel and passenger comfort than tackling Dakar.

Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets for the Great Outdoors

Adventure motorcycle helmets blend the features of on-road and off-road helmets, providing adventure riders with versatility that mirrors the capabilities of their machines in the great outdoors. Manufacturers of all kinds have entered the ADV helmet market, offering riders a wide array of options. To simplify your decision, we've compiled our top three picks of the best adventure motorcycle helmets, based on our extensive review and testing process, along with feedback from trusted enthusiasts and fellow journalists. When it comes to safety, we do our best to avoid recommending budget options, so below you'll find three picks that we believe are very similar in performance quality. As a result, these recommendations are listed in no particular order, and choosing the right one for you will largely depend on personal preference in terms of style and fitment.

2023 Lucky Explorer 9.5 Prototype Test

These days, any manufacturer with pretensions to being a global player at whatever level in the marketplace has to have a dual-purpose Adventure model in its range, and MV Agusta is no exception. Italy’s most historic trophy brand – the so-called Ferrari of motorcycles, with 270 Grand Prix road racing victories and 75 World Championship titles in its locker, including 17 successive 500GP crowns – actually has a notable off-road heritage, too. Company founder Count Domenico Agusta’s dirt demons won successive Italian MX/Enduro titles in the 1950s and ’60s, as well as equipping the Italian team in ISDT events abroad. But after the Castiglioni family acquired MV 30 years ago, their focus for the brand was exclusively on the hard stuff – a focus which the company’s current owner Timur Sardarov is now in the process of changing.

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and V-Strom 1050DE First Look

Suzuki announced updates for the V-Strom 1050 , as well as a new off-road oriented version for 2023. The new 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE replaces the 1050XT model, and adds new features to make it a more capable off-road machine such as a 21-inch front wheel, longer-stroke suspension, and a larger aluminum bash plate.

Parallel-Twin Suzuki V-Strom and SV650 Successors Spied

Spy photographers have snapped images of two new Suzuki prototypes powered by a new Parallel-Twin engine. The two motorcycles, an adventure bike and a naked model, appear to be the eventual successors to the V-Strom 650 and SV650 , and the culmination of a long development path for Suzuki’s new middleweight twin-cylinder engine.

MO Touring: Building A Lightweight Adventure Tourer - Part 2

If you read MO Touring: Building A Lightweight Adventure Tourer – Part 1 , you know that I spent the first phase of my build focusing on protection, travel-worthiness, and luggage to transform a dual sport motorcycle into a lightweight adventure tourer. Although largely a success, a couple of short shakedown tours pointed the direction for further upgrades. Consider this the polishing draft of the project, in which I hone down the rough edges before committing to a longer tour.

MO Tested: Sedici Garda Waterproof Boots Review - UPDATED

Updated 8/30/2022: Our initial negative review of the Sedici Garda Waterproof Boots in January prompted a response from the  manufacturer, Comoto, and led to several in-depth conversations about the boots. After an examination of our test boots (which we returned) and several others on hand at their facilities, the designers at Comoto determined that there was an issue which allowed for too large a gap through which the adjustable strap slid.

Lightning Motorcycles Files Designs for an Electric Adventure Bike

Lightning Motorcycles has filed designs for an electric adventure bike. The designs, filed with China’s intellectual property office, reveal a motorcycle with the typical ADV accoutrements, and an electric motor and swingarm design that look similar to those of Lightning’s Strike sportbike .

CFMOTO's Other Motos: Papio, 300NK, 300SS, 650NK and ADVentura 650

Many undies were twisted, bunched, and/or soiled after last week’s exciting Review First Ride of the new CFMOTO 700CL-X and 700CL-X Sport, which gave us a chance to discuss not just new motorcycles but also international relations . Always a crowd favorite on MO. That’s because these are completely built in China, a country which is either our mortal enemy or best trading partner depending on who you ask. Here on MO, we provide. You decide. This time we’re going to have a look at the other five bikes CFMOTO’s importing via its Plymouth, Minnesota, US HQ – in addition to all the highly regarded ATVs, UTVs, and side-by-sides they’ve been dealing for decades.

Kawasaki to Release New KLR650S Variant for 2023 (UPDATED)

Kawasaki surprised us all a year ago when it brought back the KLR650 , resurrecting the venerable adventure bike with fuel injection, updated styling, and a new one-piece frame.

BMW Announces 2023 Colors and Model Updates

BMW released initial details on its 2023 model lineup, including new colors and minor updates. BMW also announced the base MSRP for most of its models, though that information is rather moot, as it also announced additional packages which will automatically be added on to all models in the U.S.

2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Review

What a beast , I thought to myself as I put my first few miles on the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. In retrospect, that thought kind of made sense given the fact that the mill tucked beneath the 1290’s new tank design is an iteration of the Super Duke’s 1301cc V-Twin – the naked bike dubbed by KTM marketing folks as “the beast.” And beastly it is. Even in larger ADV garb coming in at 542 pounds dripping wet, the SA-R is still an absolute ripper of a motorcycle that is fully capable of serially killing rear tires.

The Mystery of the Zero DSR/X Adventure Bike

We’ve been waiting for news of a model from Zero called the DSR/X for nearly two years now. Despite trademark filings and vehicle identification filings , however, there’s been no indication from the Santa Cruz electric motorcycle brand about the mysterious model.

Design Filings May Offer Clues to the Honda NX500

Last week, we wrote about trademark filings that suggest Honda was working on a CL500 scrambler and an NX500 dual sport/adventure bike. We’ve now uncovered design filings that may offer a hint at what the NX500 may look like.

MO Touring: 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4S

Although I was born and raised in Virginia and North Carolina, I’ve done relatively little riding in the two states. When I got my first motorcycle license, I literally packed my belongings on my bike and set out for California the next day for a three-month, 11,000-mile tour . So, when I received the invitation to my 40th high school reunion (OK, 41st. Thanks, Covid.), thoughts of spending some quality, two-wheeled time in the mountains of my home states immediately came to mind.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 975 and 965S Middleweight Adventure Bikes on the Way

Last week, we broke the news confirming Harley-Davidson ‘s next Sportster will be equipped with a 975cc version of the liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine, after spotting the model code “RH975” mentioned on an official Harley accessory page.

BMW R 1300 GS, R 1400 GS and M 1300 GS Expected for 2023

Last summer, we published photos of a very raw BMW GS prototype undergoing testing . The test mule was heavily disguised, to the point of having panels with a fake trellis covering the real subframe.

Can-Am to Produce a Range of Electric Motorcycles in 2024

Bombardier Recreational Products announced Can-Am is returning to the motorcycle business with a new range of electric two-wheelers. A teaser video suggests at least four different models are in the works, with BRP expecting to reveal the full lineup in mid-2024.

2022 Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid Announced for Europe

Yamaha Motor Europe announced the production version of the 2022 Ténéré 700 World Raid , a new Ténéré variant with a larger fuel tank and longer travel suspension. It joins Yamaha’s European lineup alongside the regular Ténéré 700 , plus a Rally Edition version which we don’t get in the U.S.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak Review – First Ride

As I observed to my Ducati host just before we started up the mountain toward Idyllwild (elevation 5,800 feet) from Palm Desert, California (220 ft) – this is either going to be one of the greatest rides ever or one of the worst. Pity the poor new model launch planner: If it rains hard more than a few days a year around Palm Springs I’d be surprised. But logistics have to be laid out weeks ahead of time, and as the day for our ride drew nearer, the weather forecast for last Tuesday had evolved from 20% to 40% to 100% rain, to “atmospheric river.”

2022 Ducati DesertX First Look

With all due respect to its Multistrada models, Ducati ‘s current adventure bike offerings are better suited for paved streets with the occasional sojourn on fire roads. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. After all, we did just pick the Multistrada V4 S as our MOBO winner for the best sport-tourig motorcycle of 2021 . If you were looking for a more off-road performance from Ducati, you now have a better option in the new 2022 Ducati DesertX. With long-travel suspension, a 21-inch front wheel and a large fuel tank (plus an optional second tank), the 2022 DesertX is Ducati’s new entry to the highly competitive middleweight adventure bike segment.

2022 Triumph Tiger 1200 - First Look

Triumph has finally spilled the beans on its thoroughly redesigned Tiger 1200. A substantial reduction in weight and an emphasis on power and handling is the name of the game for 2022. Bringing its big ADV into line with the 900s, the Tiger 1200 will be offered in five trims: GT, GT Pro, GT Explorer, Rally Pro, and Rally Explorer which follow the same naming scheme with the GT trims being more road-focused while the Rally versions offer off-road accoutrement such as larger wheels and more suspension travel. The Explorer models also hold 7.9 gallons of petrol with the other trims utilizing a 5.2 gallon tank.

Moto Guzzi V85 TT Guardia D'Onore First Look

Fans of Moto Guzzi V85 TT who want to ride something special should take a look at the Moto Guzzi V85 TT Guardia d’Onore. Produced to honor the 75 year collaboration between Moto Guzzi and the Cuirassiers’ Regiment, the special Carabinieri unit responsible for the honor guard and security of the President of the Italian Republic, have worked together, the limited and numbered edition will be produced in a limited number of only 1,946 units. Although the modifications of this limited edition are small in number, they are distinctive. The black paint receives a decorative white stripe running from the front fender and across the tank to the side panel. The oversized touring windscreen also receives this striping – and an Italian flag displayed front and center. Other niceties include a center stand, engine guards, and auxiliary LED lights. Matching saddlebags are also available.

MV Agusta Lucky Explorer 5.5 First Look

Anybody who’s not playing in the ADV sandbox isn’t really playing in 2022, and that’s why MV Agusta is now dipping an exploratory toe. Two toes: Lucky Explorer 5.5 and Lucky Explorer 9.5 . The 5.5, which at some point may inherit the Elefant monicker, is to be powered by a 554 cc DOHC parallel Twin to come from MV’s Chinese partner, QJ. “Despite being a mid-sized bike,” says MV, “its appearance is that of a higher displacement travel-oriented motorcycle, capable of seducing European riders looking for a sturdy and unstoppable companion.”

2022 MV Agusta Lucky Explorer Project 9.5 First Look

MV Agusta revealed two new adventure bike “projects” at EICMA, the Lucky Explorer Project 9.5 shown here, and the smaller Lucky Explorer Project 5.5 . Both models appear ready for production, but the “Project” in the name implies they are still prototypes, and it’s unclear whether they will eventually be sold with the Lucky Explorer name, or if they’ll actually be named for the bike that influenced their design: the Cagiva Elefant .

2022 Kawasaki Versys 650 and Versys 650 LT First Look

We’ve loved the Kawasaki Versys 650 for a long time. Maybe too long? For 2022, the midsized Versatile System gets a bunch of upgrades to boost it into the modern era – electronic cruise control being not one of them. Perfect for all you who eschew modern comforts.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S Review – First Ride

Ducati introduced the Multistrada 950 back in 2017 as a stepping stone into the Multistrada world. For 2022, Ducati wanted to make that move even easier, with a more accessible Multi V2 , thanks to new and rider-friendly ergonomics, a thinner and lower seat, and a significant weight saving of 11 pounds. They also supply it in a 35kW (47 hp) format for A2 license holders in Europe.

2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 Review – First Ride

The main beauty of Sardinia is the almost complete lack of Sardinians, which makes it hard to explain why the twisty roads that connect the villages on the Mediterranean’s second-biggest island are so perfectly maintained. The new Aprilia Tuareg 660 is up for all of them. There’s a lot of second and third gear work in there, which the optional quickshifter makes quick work of, and even the occasional first-gear corner when the fur is flying – also not a problem.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 Review - First Ride

Dear Ryan Adams,

2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan Review

There’s no shortage of expensive, big-displacement, powerful Adventure-Touring motorcycles. Then there’s the mid-displacement segment that is oftentimes only marginally less expensive. Further down this segment, though, exists a sub-category of lightweight, affordable, small-displacement models that are oftentimes overshadowed by their aforementioned counterparts. It’s here where the 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan resides along with BMW ’s G310GS and CSC ’s RX4 Adventure among others.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 First Look

Two years after it debuted at EICMA as a concept model, the Husqvarna Norden 901 adventure-tourer is now ready for production, arriving in U.S. dealerships this month with a $13,999 base price.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak First Look

Motorcycles aren’t allowed to race the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb any more, and it’s been three years since the Multistrada last won it, but that hasn’t stopped Ducati from producing another new Pikes Peak model, this time based on the Multistrada V4 .

2021 Honda NC750X Review

We were kicking candidates back and forth for this year’s MOTY awards, when somebody threw out as a possible Best Standard the Honda NC750X . Hey wait a minute , I’m the only guy around here who ever liked the NC! Maybe my stately mature influence is rubbing off on the kids at last? For me, it was love at first ride of the original NC700X, way back in 2012. By then, I guess I’d been subjected to enough compromising positions on exotic high-maintenance motorcycles to appreciate the NC’s practical advantages and comfort – and I wasn’t even doing any of the maintaining.

DesertX Adventure Bike Headlines Ducati's 2022 New Model Premieres

Ducati announced a slate of 2022 new model announcements that will run every two weeks starting Sept. 30 and running through to Dec. 9. Each Ducati World Première event will be presented online on Ducati.com , YouTube and on other official social networks.

Limited Edition Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition First Look

After a lengthy pandemic-caused delay, the 25th James Bond film, “No Time to Die” is finally going to premiere in a matter of weeks (Oct. 8 in the U.S.). Triumph was a partner for the film, supplying a Scrambler 1200 and a Tiger 900 for key action sequences in the movie.

2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 Review - First Ride

Which side of the fence were you on when you got the hot goss that a new KLR 650 was coming down the pike? The for the love of god don’t change it! troop, or the this thing better be a Twin- cylinder Tenere-killer gang? 

All-New Triumph Tiger 1200 Confirmed for 2022

Just more than a week after teasing us with a new Tiger Sport 660 prototype, Triumph sends us photos of another new model, this time a heavily updated Tiger 1200 . Along with this showcase of Triumph’s camouflage wrapping, the British manufacturer sent us this brief description:

2022 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports Updates for Europe

Honda Europe announced some small, but useful updates to the Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports . At the moment, American Honda has yet to confirm either CRF1100L model for 2022, but we suspect the updated Africa Twins will be announced soon.

MO Tested: Tourmaster Ridgecrest Jacket and Ridgecrest Pants Review

I think I’m always going to think the one-piece Aerostich suit, be it R3 or Classic, is the best combination of protection, comfort, and convenience for people who ride their motorcycle a lot. But not necessarily for people who stop riding their motorcycle a lot, which is what the MO crew winds up doing since the invention of the Youtube. We find ourselves stopping along the side of the road to shoot video and photos. When you’re rolling, Aerostich airflow is good. When you’re stopped, it gets hot in there in a hurry. Whipping the suit off isn’t usually the answer, since most of the time we’re shooting in sun-blasted SoCal, where there’s not much shade.

Best Motorcycle Goggles to Keep Your Ojos Safe

Motorcycling and eye protection go hand in hand. Heck, even most states without helmet laws require eye protection. When riding off-road, good goggles are an absolute necessity. Everything from bugs and sticks, to roost and rocks are coming toward you at warp speed just hoping to put your eye out. Sure, goggles are first and foremost about protecting your eyes, but as technology has advanced, so have the features of modern day off-road motorcycle goggles. There are now options such as: the best tint for the terrain or time of day you’ll be riding, dozens of anti-fogging solutions, and flashy colors with equally flashy reflective lenses.

2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special Review - First Ride

Well folks, the latest Harley machine to grace the motorcycle market jumps, slides, and rips with the best of them – “them” of course, being the heavyweight adventure motorcycle class. The entire world had its reservations, some optimistic, and plenty pessimistic. But after cruising for two days on the 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special, it’s clear that it’s adept at much more than just that. 

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Bare Thrills: Top 10 Mid-size Adventure Motorcycles of 2023 [up to 1000cc]

Can new entries from the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE and Honda XL750 Transalp top our Top 10 Mid-size Adventure Motorcycles of 2023 [up to 1000cc]?

The middleweight adventure bike class looks filled to bursting point by the end of 2023, with recent additions including the Honda XL750 Transalp , Ducati DesertX and Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE mixing with refreshed versions of more familiar bikes. 

Motivated by the arrival of the lightweight but tough Yamaha Tenere 700, rival firms have been studying the sub-1000cc mid-ADV segment closely for some time, and now they've come to play in the mud too.

Indeed, you're spoiled for choice right now, with everything from the premium Ducati DesertX to the value-oriented CFMoto 800MT, and even to the pioneering all-electric Zero DSR/X entering the pool.

10 - CFMoto 800MT Touring

The latest example of this is the CFMoto 800MT, a motorcycle that is new for the brand but otherwise very familiar as a reimagined version of the recently revived KTM 790 Adventure .

Not that this is simply a hand-me-down model, though. For a start, we reckon CFMoto has restyled it into a more attractive proposition and, while the 800MT isn’t perhaps the last word in refinement on the road, it does at least benefit from its Austrian donor’s impressive off-road capabilities.

As a buying prospect, though, the 800MT really stands out with this flagship Touring trim offering a heap of kit, plus a class-leading four-year warranty for just over £11k. Additionally, there is the CFMoto 800MT Explorer, which adds spoked wheels, revised traction control, RDS rear radar and an MMI display. They even throw in the pannier cases as standard. 

In short, the 800MT makes a very strong case for itself. Literally (it comes with strong cases).

9 - Zero DSR/X

First, we had the Energica Experia , the first proper attempt at a large electric sports tourer, and now we have the Zero DSR/X , an electric adventure motorcycle out to prove you don't need oily bits to get your boots dirty.

While the American company knows its way around the wilderness, having launched a range of motocross and enduro bikes over the years, the DSR/X is both Zero’s and the segment's first crack at a premium mid-to-large-size adventure motorcycle that drinks from a plug in the wall.

Kudos to Zero for being the first to take on such a challenge. The firm can pat itself on the back for an encouraging first effort that goes a long way to dispelling myths that linear, transmission-less, electric power is inferior to its ICE-equipped rivals thanks to its superior responsiveness making it fun on the road and eager off it.

Visordown Review | Zero DSR/X [2023]

8 - husqvarna norden 901.

Fittingly, the aforementioned CFMoto 800MT comes hot on the heels of another manufacturer pushing into the lucrative adventure market with its own KTM-based creation.

This is the Husqvarna Norden 901 , the Tesco Finest to CFMoto’s Tesco Value… it makes use of the KTM 890 platform but dresses it in a signature style that marries both premium and rugged aspirations. 

It's feedback that appears to have spurred the Swedish firm to up its game with the launch of a new flagship variant, the altogether more rugged Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition [pictured above]. 

Boasting chunky skid plates, a more palatable navy colourway, heated grips, a centre stand, 18-litre side bags and an upgrade to its trick WP Apex suspension, the Expedition wades in with a modest £900 premium over the standard model.

Visordown Review | Husqvarna Norden 901 [2022]

7 - aprilia tuareg 660.

With its boxy, upright appearance very clearly inspired by those rally-raiders we gaze back at so fondly, this - the Aprilia Tuareg 660 - is quite a departure from the slinky lines of its siblings.

It’s quite a different proposition under the skin too, with the revvy, eagerness of the 659cc parallel twin engine being toned down for the Tuareg in favour of gruntier, low-down torque. 

Even so, with 79bhp on tap there is still evidence of Aprilia’s sporting DNA out on the road, and weighing in at 187kg, the Tuareg is lighter than its rivals, too.

On the flip side, compared with the Tenere 700, it is easy to tell it prioritises on-road use over going to extremes off it.

Visordown Review | Aprilia Tuareg 660 [2022]

6 - ktm 890 adventure.

If you put ‘conquers mountains, breaks rocks and never backs down from a challenge’ at the top of your motorcycle wishlist, then the KTM 890 Adventure is the motorcycle for you.

With all of its off-roading experience and know-how distilled into the middle child of KTM’s Adventure line-up, the 890 Adventure and the hardcore Adventure R are the Bear Grylls of motorcycles.

The 2023 update to the 890 Adventure smooths off some of the rougher edges and features new styling plus internal and electronic updates, and it is shaping up to be a bit of a weapon. Further, 2023 saw the KTM 790 Adventure return to the range, coming in with similarly good looks and comparable capabilities to the 890, but from an even more considerable price of £10,499.

Visordown Review | KTM 890 Adventure [2021]

5 - triumph tiger 900 rally.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally was so capable off-road, it was even the motorcycle of choice among baddies in the James Bond flick No Time To Die .

Fortunately, you don’t need to work for an international criminal to enjoy what the new and updated Tiger 900 has to offer. In fact, far from it being ‘baddie’, it’s actually rather good.

On paper, the Tiger 900 update for 2024 looks fairly low-key. But it doesn’t take long to start to feel the extra low and mid-range grunt over the old model, and it’s hard to complain about that. 

Also, if the GT and GT Pro models aren’t quite cutting it for you when it comes to the loose stuff, there’s always the Rally Pro, with longer-travel, fully adjustable suspension from Showa at both ends. You’ll have a reach a bit further into the back pocket for the Rally Pro, though, at £14,495.

Visordown Review | Triumph Tiger 900 [2024]

4 - suzuki v-strom 800de.

Diving straight into the new metal, the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE burst onto the scene at the beginning of 2023, boasting an all-new engine and chassis platform for the V-Strom range. With heavily re-worked styling compared to the previous V-Strom 650XT, the new 800DE offers riders a fresh-looking take on mid-weight Suzuki adventure touring.

With prices starting from £10,499, the new 800 DE has been worth the extended wait with the new twin proving brisk and refined, while Suzuki put some thought into its most off-road-capable V-Strom yet. 

Unlikely to do much off-roading? You might prefer the more asphalt-oriented Suzuki V-Strom 800 RE .

Visordown Review | Suzuki V-Strom 800DE [2023]

3 - ducati desertx.

So is the Ducati DesertX better late than never… without a doubt. Indeed, Ducati - being Ducati - has taken its proper adventure debut very seriously, going to the lengths of developing an all-new chassis and frame around the well-proven 937cc Testastretta twin.

Far from betraying its novice status in the rough stuff, the DesertX is a convincing first stab at a trail bike, while it is packed to the brim with riding modes for every occasion.

Naturally, Ducati hasn’t abandoned its sporting DNA on the road either with the 110bhp engine feeling frisky, while the DesertX handles with eagerness. We also love the simple, modern-retro design that pays homage to the Ducati-engined, Dakar Rally-winning Cagiva Elefant.

So why doesn’t it win here? Well, it is arguably a better motorcycle in isolation than our winner… but at £14,995, the DesertX commands a hefty premium over similar engined rivals. 

Nevertheless, if you’re willing to pay extra, you won’t be disappointed.

Visordown REVIEW | Ducati DesertX  [2023]

2 - honda xl750 transalp.

Honda returned to the mid-capacity ADV category with the Honda XL750 Transalp in 2023. It is a model that both propels the Japanese giant into the future while harnessing the good names of its past.

Following the trend set by the Honda CB750 Hornet , with which it shares its underpinnings, Honda's new mud-slinger revives the fondly regarded Transalp moniker, but gives it a new lease of life with a motorcycle that - bravely - forges its own path.

It's reasonable to assume Honda has crunched the numbers on a model of this ilk and it seems the results show buyers are seeking a road-oriented, excellent value, well-appointed and built motorcycle... because that is exactly what the XL750 Transalp is. 

The asphalt-biassed set-up makes the XL750 Transalp noticeably more involving to ride on the smooth stuff, while the frisky new 755cc twin-cylinder engine punches above its size with a competitive 91bhp. As with all Hondas, fit and finish are second to none, it's brimming with simple but clever gadgetry, and it’s both comfortable and practical. We even think it's handsome, if understated.

So why doesn't it swoop into number one? Well, it actually will for a lot of you reading this because, if you're not fussed about getting your boots muddy, then the XL750 Transalp is the superior choice. But if you are, then its on-road gains are off-road pains. 

The good news is that that keeps prices down with the Transalp starting at a very competitive £9,499. But in a category literally named 'adventure', it has to settle for the runners-up spot.

Visordown REVIEW | Honda XL750 Transalp [2023]

1 - yamaha tenere 700.

They came for the throne, but the King is still sitting pretty.

Yes, the Yamaha Tenere 700 - now available in six distinct flavours - fends off its rivals for another stint as Visordown’s favourite adventure motorcycle .

There is a lot to like about the Tenere 700, which focuses on doing the basics very well. It’s an excellent companion off-road, proving chuckable and easy to handle, while it gives the KTM 890 Adventure a run for its money in the rough stuff.

It’s a peppy performer on the road, too, with the 689cc crossplane two-cylinder engine feeling brisker than its modest 72bhp might have you believe on paper.

Better still, having been criticised for its limiting 16-litre fuel tank in standard trim, Yamaha has not only listened to its customers, it went to lengths with its response of the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid , which comes with a vast 23-litre fuel tank, more sophisticated suspension and multi-functional GPS tech.

If that's not enough, the Dakar Rally-inspired Yamaha Tenere 700 Rally Edition [pictured above] is targeted at more serious off-road riders with its alloy skid plate, radiator protectors, re-designed seat and torque-aiding Akrapovic slip-on, while the Yamaha Tenere 700 Explore Edition leans into Tracer category with its longer range and luggage kit.

Then there is the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition, a stripped-down enduro-style variant that appears to be the lovechild of the Tenere 700 and the YZ450F. 

There are certainly more desirable and cutting-edge options out there but with prices starting at just over £10,000 going up to £13,000 for the bells-and-whistles World Rally, the Yamaha Tenere 700 is the best at a bargain.

Visordown REVIEW | Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid [2023]

* prices correct at the time of publication [December 2023]

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Royal Enfield Launches New Global Touring, Bike Rental Business

Photo: Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield has launched a new global motorcycle rental business as well as a motorcycle touring operation with operations in all sorts of interesting places.

Portals for the new services are now open at the RoyalEnfield.com website—see the bike rental sub-page here , and the touring sub-page here .

What’s offered?

What you’re getting is very straightforward, and nothing we haven’t seen before. Royal Enfield’s rental business is hooked up with third-party partners that offer the bikes in cities around the world. Other OEMs have had similar deals for years, with companies like BMW and Harley-Davidson offering flashy rental machines in popular tourist destinations. Many times, these OEMs also partner with other companies to offer tours.

It seems that bike availability varies by location, but you should be able to expect one of RE’s retro models in whatever location you go to, and many can also rent you a Himalayan (both the older air-cooled model and the newer liquid-cooled 450 are in the rental fleet, although both aren’t available everywhere). Pricing also varies by location, with rentals in India available for under $20 a day, if Google’s currency conversion is correct.

This is your chance to ride a classic machine like the Hunter in a scenic location, with rentals all over the world. Photo: Motorcycle.com/Royal Enfield

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• News /  More Royal Enfield 450 Models Coming (Maybe We Should Expect A Scram 450?)
• MO Review  /  2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450

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USA TODAY 10Best

Best adventure tours in the Untied States? Vote now

April 30, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors April 30, 2024

With summer around the corner, you might be ready to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. We're looking for the best outdoor excursions — boat tours, helicopter tours, aerial adventure parks, fishing charters, rafting trips, kayaking excursions, bike tours, and hot air balloon rides — to help our readers plan their greatest adventure yet.

A panel of experts has selected our groups of illustrious nominees across each of nine categories, and now it's your turn to vote for your favorites.

Voting ends on Monday, May 27 at noon ET, and you can vote once per day, per category.

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Click on each category below to vote:

Best Adventure Tour Operator

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking.

Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with?

Vote: Best Adventure Tour Operator »

Best Aerial Adventure Park

Zip lining and treetop tours have exploded in popularity as a way to experience the forest canopy in a safe and thrilling environment. These 20 aerial adventure parks — nominated as the best in the U.S. by an expert panel — beckon with their zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing elements, each promising an unforgettable experience high above the ground.

Which aerial adventure park would you most like to visit?

Vote: Best Aerial Adventure Park »

Best Bike Tour

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel for their fantastic guided and self-guided tours that take you around the globe on two wheels.

Which bike tour company would you most like to tour with?

Vote: Best Bike Tour »

Best Boat Tour

From whale watching excursions and sunset sails to scenic cruises past waterfalls and cliff-backed shores, there are so many water-based tours to choose from across the United States. An expert panel has nominated these 20 companies for offering the best boat tours in the country.

Which boat tour company would you most enjoy a trip with?

Vote: Best Boat Tour »

Best Fishing Charter

Whether you’re looking to polish your angling skills on America’s rivers or head offshore in search of your next big catch, these 20 fishing charters and outfitters — nominated by an expert panel as the best in the U.S. and U.S. territories — are sure to increase your chances of success.

Which fishing charter would you most like to set out with?

Vote: Best Fishing Charter »

Best Helicopter Tour

Whether it’s the majestic layers of the Grand Canyon, flashing neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip, or beautiful rainforests and beaches of Hawaii, top destinations across the United States often look even better from the air. An expert panel has nominated these 20 companies for offering the best helicopter tours in the Untied States.

Which helicopter tour company would you most like to take flight with?

Vote: Best Helicopter Tour »

Best Hot Air Balloon Ride

Hot air balloons take the act of travel to new heights, offering a fresh perspective while floating in the sky in a woven wicker basket. There’s no other experience quite like it, and these 20 companies have been nominated by an expert panel for offering the best hot air balloon rides in the United States.

Which hot air balloon company would you most like to float into the air with?

Vote: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride »

Best Kayak Tour

Kayak tours combine aerobic fitness with the chance to immerse yourself in nature on guided outings, and the diverse waterways of the United States present some of the most breathtaking paddling adventures in the world. These 20 companies — nominated by an expert panel — lead some of the best kayaking tours in the U.S. and U.S. territories.

Which kayak tour company would you most like to paddle with?

Vote: Best Kayak Tour »

Best White Water Rafting Tour

The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best white-water rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike. From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting is a great way to add a dash of adventure to a trip, and these 20 companies have been nominated by an expert panel for offering the best white-water rafting tours in the country.

Which white-water rafting tour company would you most like to traverse the river with?

Vote: Best White Water Rafting Tour »

Remember, you can vote once per day in each category. The 10 nominees with the most votes in each category will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Moscow city tour by motorbike

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Best Price Guarantee

If you find similar services at a lower price, inform us about the alternative proposal and we will make the best offer.

Motorbike city tour in Moscow

  Red Square, Bolotnaya Square, Observation platforms of the capital and much more. We will pick you up from home, take you to the most beautiful places of the city. If desired, plunge into the world of the motorcycle culture of the capital, drink refreshing biker tea in one of the themed moto bars.

City tour (day / night).

  The tour includes: Moscow Kremlin, Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Bolotnaya Square, Moscow Boulevard Ring, Chistye Prudy, Vysoko-Petrovsky Monastery, Patriarch’s Ponds, ul. Arbat, Museum-estate of L.N. Tolstoy, State Museum AS Pushkin.

Duration the program is counted for 1,5 hours (26 km).

Moscow day tour

    The tour includes: Moscow Kremlin, Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Bolotnaya Square, Moscow Boulevard Ring, Chistye Prudy, Vysokopetrovsky monastery, Patriarch’s Ponds, ul. Arbat, Museum-estate of L.N. Tolstoy, State Museum AS Pushkin, Novodevichy Women’s Monastery, Kutuzovsky Prospect, view of the Moscow-City Shopping Center.

Duration the program is counted for 2,5 hours (36 km).

Night "Biker" Excursion

    For the sophisticated or just deciding to learn more about the international biker culture, listen to biker traditions, signs, as well as plunge into the world of motorcycle nightlife. The tour includes:  Moscow Kremlin, Observation Platform near the Moscow-City Shopping Center, Bike Center “Sexton”.

Duration the program is counted for 1,5 hours (29 km).

   For the sophisticated or just deciding to learn more about the international biker culture, listen to biker traditions, signs, as well as plunge into the world of motorcycle nightlife/ – we made a route 54 km long: Moscow Kremlin, Observation Platform near the Moscow-City Shopping Center, Bike Center “Sexton”, Observation deck on the Sparrow Hills, Biker Bar “Night Train”.

    For the sophisticated or just deciding to learn more about the international biker culture, listen to biker traditions, signs, as well as plunge into the world of motorcycle nightlife – we made a route of 65 km: Moscow Kremlin, Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Marsh Square, Observation deck near the Moscow-City International Business Center, Bike Center “Sexton”, Observation deck on Sparrow Hills, Moscow State University Building, Biker Bar “Night Train”.

Duration the program is counted for 3,5 hours (65 km).

*Additional services:

Services of a professional photographer for photographs in the process of moving motorcycles (the photographer rides a passenger on another motorcycle) – 3500rub / hour

Attention. The number of participants is limited. Book your tour in advance!

Please prove you are human by selecting the truck .

Frequently asked Questions

Are there any restrictions on participation?

– By weight: not more than 90 kg for sport bikes and not more than 110 kg for grand tourists (Goldwing);

– All pilots are prohibited to take passengers in a state of alcoholic or drug intoxication;

– The volume of luggage (handbags, backpacks, etc.) is not more than 15 liters. Larger volume of baggage – must be reported in advance (for the carriage of goods a number of motorcycles are foreseen);

  – It is strictly forbidden to ride without a helmet. (helmet provided);

Is it safe?

    Our equipment is completely safe regardless of the chosen route and kind of entertainment. We also recommend that you have insurance in force in the territory of the Russian Federation.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Johnny Campbell to Lead Honda True Adventure Tour

American Honda announced today that 11-time Baja 1000 winner Johnny Campbell will lead a hybrid influencer/demo-ride event—the Honda True Adventure Tour—next month.

This is a press release from Honda…

Based around an adventure motorcycle ride from Northern Washington to Southern California, the event will feature social-media influencers riding Transalp and Africa Twin adventure bikes, with the group making periodic stops at Honda powersports dealerships for public demo rides. Making guest appearances at different points along the ride will be factory Monster Energy Honda riders Ricky Brabec (a two-time Dakar Rally winner) and Skyler Howes.

A total of approximately 1,500 miles in length, the Honda True Adventure Tour will start May 5 in Lakewood, Washington, with Campbell leading a group of four influencers to overnight stops in the Oregon municipalities of Sisters, Eugene and Coos Bay, before they finish up in Eureka, California. There, a second team of influencers will take the baton for an all-California stint, to include overnight stops in Roseville, Paso Robles and Huntington Beach, before the ride makes a ceremonial finish at the American Honda Collection Hall in Torrance on May 14.

Along the route, the group will stop at a trio of Honda powersports dealerships—Lakewood, Washington’s South Bound Motorsports on May 4; Roseville, California’s Roseville Honda Motorsports on May 11; and Huntington Beach, California’s Huntington Beach Honda on May 14. The public is invited to these stops, where they can meet Campbell and join Honda’s demo team in local rides aboard new Honda powersports models, including Transalps and Africa Twins.

“ADV enthusiasts know that springtime means riding time, so we can’t wait to get started on this adventure extravaganza,” said Jeremy McGuire, Senior Manager of Customer Engagement at American Honda. “With both influencer and demo-ride components, the Honda True Adventure Tour will give participants the opportunity to try out Honda’s adventure models firsthand, and the fact that it’s all being led by off-road legend Johnny Campbell makes it a can’t-miss. We look forward to seeing some great content from the participating influencers, and to spending quality time with our customers at the demo-ride events.”

For more information on the Honda True Adventure Ride demo rides, visit powersports.honda.com/events .

Click here for more Press Releases on Cycle News .

Triumph Motorcycles Becomes Newest Manufacturer Partner and Competitor of Pro Motocross

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The special edition 10th issue of The Bikepacking Journal is one you won’t want to miss! It features 25% more pages with extra stories, bonus art and maps, and much more...

Issue 09 takes readers on trips through time—one to the early days of bicycles—and offers several reminders to be grateful for supportive friends and family, and strangers we meet along the way...

For Issue 08, we invited several contributors to return and pick up where earlier trips and ideas left off and also feature a handful of first-timers whose perspectives we’ve long been eager to share...

The Maine Connection: A Snowy Hut-to-Hut Adventure

Over the winter, Trevor Browne and a group from Panorama Cycles in Canada headed to Maine for a three-day hut-to-hut fatbiking journey through the beautiful Carrabassett Valley. Read on for his story of finding friendship and flow while pedaling along snowy trails through the northern woods with a blissful photo gallery that almost has us missing winter…

Words by Trevor Browne , photos by Trevor Browne and Louise Philipovitch

When I started bikepacking over 15 years ago, I would have never imagined where my bike would take me. Embarking across deserts, mountains, and valleys, I still get surprised by what I discover and how I connect with the land and the people I meet and learn from along the way. It’s these connections that keep me coming back for more. This year would lead me to a new encounter of a slightly different sort: encounters on a fat bike that would lead me to explore places blanketed by snow and ice. I had dabbled in winter travel on skis, but not so much on a bike, and no more than a dozen kilometers at a time.

It was January, and our ambassador crew of seven from Panorama Cycles had been emailing back and forth for weeks to get everything organized for a three-day fat bikepacking trip in Maine. All we wanted to do was get out of the city and enjoy riding our bikes in the snow. The plan was to plod around in the snow for 5 to 25 miles through Northern Maine’s beautiful Carrabassett Valley and take advantage of their backcountry hut system for sleeping at night. The concept of hut travel has been around in Europe, Canada, and the United States for a while, but there are few hut networks appropriate for multi-day fat bike adventures in the winter months.

Fortunately, with a little digging, the folks at Panorama Cycles managed to find one close to our home base in Montreal, Quebec. The Maine Huts and Trails system is a shared trail system that caters to backcountry skiers, snowshoers, and yes, even fat bikers. This vast network offers over 130 kilometers of free public trails, nearly 80 of which are accessible by fat bike. On top of that, there are three huts—much larger and more comfortable than the name “hut” would suggest—that cater to folks wanting to take unique adventures. The huts have fireplaces, warm showers, chefs, and all the craft beer you’d want after spending six hours (or more) riding a loaded bike with tires pumped up to 3 PSI. Because you spend your nights on cozy bunk beds in these huts, you don’t need to carry a stove or shelter on your bike. The only thing required is a sleeping bag, some extra clothes, snacks, and camera gear. Plus, the amazing part is that the Maine Huts are carbon neutral. The impressive heating and efficient composting systems run on solar or hydro power, creating low emissions.

I would be cycling with other fine folks from Panorama who have cycled around the world, competed in races, and gone places where bikes haven’t been before. We were about to embark on an unforgettable adventure amid the snow-covered valleys, exploring frozen waterfalls and cruising around lakes along the way. There’s something unique about riding with like-minded people for a few days, doing what we love. Everyone has their different gifts and with this group, we all contributed in our special way. But, for me, I needed a mental lift. I was looking to get inspired. Inspired to create, to be present and reconnect, to get back in touch with people and the land.

Hut to hut to hut

Think of winter hut travel by fat bike like a slow style of bike touring through a forest covered in a few feet of snow in sub-zero temps. The trails, in this case, are groomed and packed by the guardians of the hut system regularly, so they are relatively smooth. In our case, there was 15 centimeters of snow predicted to fall the day we left. This would make things interesting in the days to come.

After all our planning, departure days finally arrived, and we were gathered around the Stratton Brook Trailhead in the rugged northwestern portion of Maine. The temperature was hovering near 0ºC, almost too warm to be setting off on a dream route of hut-to-hut fat bikepacking for three days. After an hour of preparing and packing our bikes, we headed out for three days to find that reconnection and heed the siren call of these snowy Maine mountains to see what all the fat bike excitement was about and experience the trail (and hut) magic firsthand.

Snow was falling in big fluffy flakes and almost instantly melting on our skin. It was calm, though, and we watched the trees sway in a slight breeze. Standing in the parking lot waiting for the others to arrive, we all exchanged stories of our other biking adventures. I tend to be a listener and not so much a talker in groups, so it was nice to get to know the others better by hearing about their exploits. It was stimulating to hear how far they have pushed themselves in their adventures and experiences. It inspired g me to dream up future adventures of my own. Eventually, the others arrived, and we all set out assembling our bikes up and strapping on our various bags. I loved looking through my camera’s viewfinder as everyone was getting ready. People were laughing and smiling, giving tips, and lending a hand to make sure we were all rolling safely.

I had set out a bit ahead of everyone to find a good surprise shot of them coming around a corner on the trail. It was impossible not to get a good shot. Everyone passed by, with massive smiles on their faces, whooping and hollering. Something about rolling through a snow-covered forest bouncing around on big fat wheels transported us back in time to when we were kids hitting the trails on our bikes. The happiness was contagious.

Flat and winding trails soon led to narrower trails climbing uphill, with the grades getting steeper and steeper as we entered the Bigelow Range. Smiles turned more into concentrated looks. Our goal was to reach Stratton Brook Hut to gain some nice views and maybe have a beer, even though it was a bit out of our way to make it to our evening destination at Poplar Stream Falls Hut. The snow was getting heavier and heavier, which made the trip more magical but also more difficult. A few hike-a-bikes and switchbacks later, we made it to our destination, greeted by a plump snowman getting bigger by the minute. The views had disappeared because of the storm’s cloud cover, and the beer wasn’t being served. We were a little disappointed, but we didn’t let it get us down. We still had about 13 kilometers to go, but all that climbing we did earlier meant we would have some nicely flowing downhill sections ahead of us.

This is where I made my first big mistake. I’m a pretty good mountain biker, so I wasn’t too worried about the downhill, and I knew to trust my bike. But there was one big thing I didn’t think about. Because the trails were groomed, they were nicely packed, but once you went off the trail, there was about two feet of unpacked snow. It didn’t occur to me that a person would quickly sink into that snow if they went off the trail. I could see some backcountry skiers coming up the trail, so I thought it would be best if I gave them space, and they did the same. Their skis kept them on top of the snow, but my tires did not. As soon as I slightly veered off the trail, I did an endo deep into the snow, flying over my bars like Superman. I hit the snow hard, knocking the air out of my lungs. I got up quickly and made sure the skiers were alright, but I think they were more concerned about me. Luckily, nothing was damaged except for my pride. I laughed it off and kept cruising down and never again did I veer off the trail at high speeds.

The afternoon faded into the evening as we rolled down the Carrabassett River Valley. Sunlight was replaced by headlamps, and we had one final stretch of uphill to get to our destination for the night. We all rolled at our own pace, trickling into the Poplar Stream Falls Hut just before dinner time. The thing I soon realized is that fat bikes require a huge amount of physical energy to propel through all the powdery snow. We were constantly spinning more than we would on normal bikes, and our legs were feeling the effort even though we had only gone about 25 kilometers.

Our day was challenging, but here’s where the hut system shined. Instead of having to set up camp and start up the stove on a cold winter’s night, there was a welcoming hut waiting for us, complete with warm showers, cold beer, and a roaring fire. By “hut,” I don’t mean a tiny refuge warmed by a wood stove. Think of it more as an off-grid eco-lodge complete with food and drink and linked to warm cabins with bunk beds. As the hut crew grooved to Bruce Springsteen and crafted our meals in the kitchen, we melted into our seats with a local brew.

Our cheeks were aglow from the day’s efforts, and we connected around the family-style table, recounting tales from the day’s adventures. Poke bowls were on the menu, and we were thankful to have a great spread served to us by such warm and generous people. Afterward, we took a tour of the basement, where all the eco magic happens—solar power banks, hydropower harnessed from a nearby stream, wood heat, a composter named Clivus, and a recycling program made this system one of the most impressive off-grid cabins we had ever seen. Sleep soon followed us as our heads hit the pillow and we drifted off in our sleeping bag cocoons.

What goes up must come down

We awoke to a magical white wonderland the next morning as the snow had slowly accumulated all night. This would make the trails challenging for the next day’s ride but in a good way. With our next destination of Flagstaff Lake Hut only about 16 kilometers away, we had plenty of time to explore what the area had to offer. After the staff served us a nice warm breakfast and made us paper bag lunches complete with a sandwich, fruit, and a classic homemade whoopee pie, we packed our bags on our bikes. We managed to stop every few kilometers to take in beautifully frozen waterfalls, meadows blanketed in fresh powder, and tall pines quietly creaking and swaying in the breeze. So far, the trails weren’t bad, if a little on the soft side, but a long uphill ahead proved to be the biggest challenge of the ride.

There was a yurt halfway to our destination, a perfect stop to eat our lunch. Normally, it should have only taken half an hour to get there, but a groomer hadn’t passed through this area for a couple of days, and the conditions were getting softer and softer. We ended up letting a bunch of air out of our chunky tires; somewhere around 2-3 PSI seemed to be the sweet spot. We tried to ride as much as we could, but walking seemed to be faster. Balancing at those slow speeds seemed to be tricky, and as we tumbled over, we ended up getting swallowed by the deep powder. Lending each other a hand, we pulled one another out of the deep snowbanks. By the time we reached the top of the summit, we were all drenched in sweat. Our efforts were soon rewarded at the peak by reaching a tiny yurt that already had a fire burning in the stove lit by the previous visitors. Guzzling down our water and wolfing down our prepared lunches, we assembled around the stove trying to dry off. Laughing and chatting and connecting soon ensued, and we were ready to tackle the remaining trail that plunged us down to Flagstaff Lake.

The word “flow” came to mind when rolling down the hill: just letting go and hitting that sweet spot of effort, skill, and speed. My first instinct while heading down the steep, powdery track was to brake. But by watching the other skilled riders in front, I soon learned the less you try to be in control, the more you can flow down. Just trust the bike. We were connecting to something deeper. It was like carving down a slope on skis. The clouds briefly cleared as we cruised down, revealing the lake in the valley below. The beautiful descent blew my mind. Another snowstorm soon swooped into the valley bottom, though, and we were enveloped in white again.

We arrived at Flagstaff Hut early in the day with daylight to spare. After checking in, we decided to explore the manmade lake, the fourth largest in Maine. Surrounded by the Bigelow Range, we watched the approaching storm encroach the windswept lake. We spent the rest of the afternoon playing around in the snow, sipping on frosty Quebec gin from our flasks. Again, it was about creating new connections with each other and with the world around us that made this moment so memorable. It wasn’t about being “epic” or extreme. It was about connecting to our basic needs to be creative, play, laugh, converse, and soak in the world around us.

The rest of the trip seemed to echo that sentiment. The more time we spent exploring the Maine wilderness by fat bike, the more we shared a part of ourselves with the rest of the crew. Sharing a meal, sitting around a fire, or doing puzzles together by the light of headlamps, we all came away from that trip connecting more with each other and our environment. That’s what makes biking special. That’s what all the hype is about.

Bikepacking Huts & Trails Video

In addition to my written account of our time on the trail, filmmaker Yanouk Paquette from the Perdons les Pédales YouTube channel shot and edited a 13-minute video from our trip that offers a different perspective on the experience. You can watch it below (in French with English subtitles) if you’d like a deeper look at our winter adventure. Thank you, Yanouk!

About Trevor Browne

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The Best E-Bike Tours In America Are Perfect For Adventure

Posted: February 27, 2024 | Last updated: February 27, 2024

E-bikes are surging in popularity and for good reason: they allow you to travel further and faster without having to break much of a sweat. They’re an ideal and accessible way to see more of America – and these brilliant tours are a great place to start. From small-group adventure trips to guided city tours, here are our favorite e-bike tours throughout the US.

Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour through Hidden Santa Fe, New Mexico

A treasure trove of Indigenous artifacts, desert-like southwestern landscapes and fascinating Spanish forts await you on this three-and-a-half hour guided tour. Run by Heritage Inspirations , the trip aims to uncover lesser-known gems in the New Mexico capital, all with the ease of battery-assisted bikes – which come in an aesthetically pleasing mint green color.

Starting at the Cross of the Martyrs in Fort Marcy Park (pictured), cyclists will pedal their way through the city, visiting attractions including the Randall Davey Audubon Center, the stunning River Park and the hip Railyard District. According to recent Tripadvisor reviews , guides are highly knowledgeable, and the tour takes guests along quieter streets, while thorough lessons in how to use the e-bikes are provided. 

17-Mile Drive Tour, Big Sur, California

Although it’s better known as a road trip destination, California’s wild and windswept Big Sur coastline is perfect for exploring by e-bike. This well-planned tour , which takes you along an ultra-scenic 17-mile section of the road in around two and a half hours, is a great way to experience some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes along this storied route.

Beginning at Asilomar State Beach, you’ll learn the history of this beautiful surfing beach before hopping onto your e-bike and cycling along the rugged coastline towards the start of 17-Mile Drive. Memorable stops along the way include Lone Cypress (pictured) – a starkly beautiful Monterey cypress set on its own headland jutting out to sea – as well as the pristine stretch of sand at Carmel Bay and Bird Rock point, where you’ll get to watch sea lions frolicking in the water. 

3-hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike, California

Although they offer something a little different from the conventional e-biking experience, the e-trikes provided by Pushpak Motors are a fun and environmentally friendly way to explore California’s wine country. With space for two riders apiece, these three-wheeled electric trikes will whizz you past scenic vineyards in no time – with plenty of stops along the way.

And it’s not just sightseeing you’ll get to do on this no-holds-barred tour. Over the course of three hours, guests can enjoy stops for wine and cheese tasting at prized local wineries. If you want a little more time to relax and enjoy the views (and wine), book onto the more elaborate five-hour tour, which includes an additional winery visit and plenty more time to explore lesser-known roads.  

Fat Tire E-Bike Tour through Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Covering more than 500 square miles of Hawaii’s Big Island, including two active volcanoes (Kīlauea and Mauna Loa), Volcanoes National Park is jam-packed with awe-inspiring landscapes. And what better way to take them in than on an electric bike? Volcano Ohana offers a three-hour experience on its trademark fat tire e-bikes, which are just the thing for navigating the region’s challenging volcanic terrain. 

Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour, North Carolina

Surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and full of historic attractions, Asheville is a great city to discover by e-bike.  The Flying Bike  offers a three-hour tour of downtown, allowing you to learn about the city’s inspiring architecture, discover its fast-changing arts and cultural scene and pick up some brilliant recommendations from local guides. 

Half-Day Electric Bike Tour of Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas, Nevada

With the option to take either a guided or self-guided tour via e-bike, Escape Adventures ’ half-day experience is an ideal way to see this National Conservation Area. Recent Tripadvisor reviewers have praised the tours’ organization and the quality of the bikes, with many reporting that the added help of an e-bike was necessary to manage the hills along the route.

Guided E-bike tour of downtown St Petersburg, Florida

Tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, St Petersburg is one of Florida’s most charming cities and it’s perfect for some pedal-powered adventures. With Bay E-Bikes’ downtown tour , a local expert will take you around the city’s most noteworthy attractions, including colorful murals, waterfront parks and St Pete Pier.

The family-friendly three-hour tour, which has received rave reviews on Tripadvisor , includes bike, helmet and lock rental, as well as drop-off and pick-up. Bay E-Bikes also offers a wildlife and history tour around Fort De Soto Park, located just southwest of the city, during which you’ll get to explore these gorgeous offshore keys and learn about the plants and wildlife they support.

San Juan Islands biking tour, Washington

If you’re after a full-blown, multi-day adventure, this incredibly beautiful bike tour through Washington’s San Juan Islands is well worth considering. The seven-day adventure covers a total of 134 miles by either regular or e-bike, including ferry trips across the Salish Sea, six nights of accommodation at boutique inns and a tried-and-tested, detailed itinerary.

Ketchikan Electric Bike and Rainforest Hike Ecotour, Alaska

For an intrinsically Alaskan tour experience, look no further than this highly rated excursion from the Ketchikan Kayak Company . Taking visitors around the most scenic parts of Ketchikan – famously the entrance to the Inside Passage – it includes a journey down the so-called ‘Road to Nowhere’ and a guided hike through the Tongass National Forest.

You’ll get the chance to spot some incredible wildlife, including porpoises, seals and sea lions, along the coastal section of the route. Meanwhile, the journey through the rainforest gives you the chance to see an active salmon-spawning stream, a waterfall and plenty of native Alaskan flora and fauna. The trip includes a smoked salmon meal (or vegan option) and beverages, plus round-trip transportation from Ketchikan downtown. 

Boston City View Bike Tour, Massachusetts

The historic city of Boston can be explored on foot, of course – but a little pedal power will allow you to see many of its most important sights in a shorter amount of time. Urban AdvenTours’ flagship e-bike tour , which takes around two and a half to three hours, takes you through Fenway Park, Boston University Campus, Boston Common and past plenty of attractive brownstones.

Original Electric Cruiser Fat Tire Bike Tour, Boulder, Colorado

Boulder is a great city for cycling, with more than 300 miles of bikeways , including designated cycle-only paths, bike lanes and multi-use routes. And the fat-tire, electric-assisted cruiser bikes offered by Electric Cruiser Bike Tours are a great way for all the family to get out and explore the city. 

During a two-hour trip you’ll get to see some of the city’s best-loved neighborhoods, including the University of Colorado, the historic downtown, Chautauqua and along Boulder Creek. According to recent Tripadvisor reviews , the tours are well-paced, guides are knowledgeable and there are a good number of stops at interesting locations along the way. 

Now discover the amazing North American destinations to visit with your EV

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