Adventure Bike Truth
2022 ж. 2 Нау.
533 653 Рет қаралды
Adventure Bike Truth - Marketing V Reality
I take a look at what the marketing people tell us about adventure bikes and compare that to reality.
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Finally someone that gives a true review!! YES!!! I have an Africa Twin and would trade it for nothing!! I love this bike! But it's just like this review says.. it's for touring and a little off road (gravel roads).. not heavy off road or single tracks!!!
Thanks for your honest comment Bert. I too loved my Africa Twin for off road touring, but in the end I wanted to explore further off road and needed a smaller/lighter bike.
Yup. Have had mine for 100k miles now, realized early on that she's a pig in single track. Everything else though, its the perfect bike for me. I love the platform she's goldilocks!
That is why you have two bikes....
I have an Africa Twin. It has its limitations compared to a crf 450.. but I most definitely rock this thing off road on muddy single track and on the jumps. But I’m also 26 and pretty large so I can handle it easier.
Exactly. People see the ads, IG posts and forget that even pro riders have difficulty using big bikes. Ask most of them and they will say their favorite bikes are smaller.
I used to ride KTM 690 Enduro. That was a truly capable off road bike. Rode it in every terrain possible, even rode it on a sandy motocross track once. But even that bike felt too heavy and powerful. The way that I see it, the main advantages that big adventure bikes have is that they are far more comfortable on long trips, can carry much more cargo, and have bigger fuel tanks. But smaller bikes are far better at pretty much everything else.
Yup
How dare you lay bare the truth, the big boys may cry.
yeah the KTM 690 might be too heavy already I never felt it was about the power but about the weight. There's nothing more scary than riding a 300kg travel bike up a steep ascend knowing if you screw up you might have a broken leg. I once owned a Husqvarna TE 610 (non E) from 1995 which only weighed 120kg wet and 180kg with luggage. It had like ~65 hp and was super controllable. In my eyes that was the perfect adventure bike (after I fitted a 15 liter tank for ~300km range) Since it wasn't really road legal (due to emissions you had to reduce the power to 24hp) I sold it after a year or so but I had lots of fun with it and even fitted some supermoto rims for street use. I drove it with full power all the time of course. Nowadays I only ride street bikes (cbr 600 pc35) but I always think back to that great time when I owned this super lightweight, high performance Enduro
Exactly I ride a Husqvarna 701 Supermoto with 70/30 tyres and the only thing it is good for is twisty roads, gravel and hard terrain. It's 150 kg will prevent any Enduro type usage. For what do people buy a 300 kg bike with dishwasher? Get a car. The Porsche is faster on the road and more comfy, in a van you can sleep and with a Hilux you can carry your bike with you for the suicidal hillcllimb.
Here in India a 100cc bike does everything at everywhere for years without fail 😊
So true. I've been lucky enough to have a riding adventure through Rajasthan. From what I saw, a 100cc is enough for Mum, Dad a five year old AND a baby. All at once 😂. I take my hat off to Indian motorcycle riders. You guys are something else. I saw one guy on the freeway between Pushkar and Jaipur who was leaning back on his bike, controlling the handlebars and throttle with his feet while he rolled a cigarette. Mad skill.
@@DmacDomage 👍
In Africa, Bajaj and TVS 100 cc bikes rule
It does here too in the US. Ask every grom/z125 rider
Same in Mexico 🇲🇽 brother
Dude, you are hilarious -- I laughed out loud in multiple parts of this video! Your no-hype delivery and dry humour are perfect. This is the brutally honest commentary that no one else will do. I have a Super Ténéré...so I know a thing or two about "heavy" (it even surpasses your Africa Twin weight-wise). It's a "travel bike", and a very good one; but I shan't be taking it on much more than gravel or dirt...sure as heck won't be going through mud or sand!
Haha... thanks mate, I'm glad I could make you smile. The Super Ten sounds like an awesome travel bike 👍
As a rider of a +600 Lbs 1250cc BMW GSA I concur. Now looking to add another bike for off road. Around 300CC.
Don't be a sissy. Got a scrambler 1200 as my first bike, and I'm enjoying sand and mud. I don't even have any real skills.
The Super Ten is a big heavy bike, surprisingly does better then I expected offroad, just don't drop it.
When I tried off road riding over fifty years ago, I immediately concluded that any bike that weighed more than a hundred kg should stay on the pavement. I could pick up my CZ 250 when I dropped it and carry on. When people began claiming that bikes weighing more than 220 kg were suitable for off-road adventuring, I went to a Honda dealer and looked at an Africa Twin, just to see how big it really was. I decided that somebody was lying. As Itchy Boots Noraly nears the end of her solo journey from South America to the northern reaches of Alaska, her Honda CRF 300 has proven the lie. Smaller really is better.
So true, most of the heavyweight adventure bikes stay on the hard stuff, especially when they are fully loaded. I’m just back from NZ on my CRF300L and it was the perfect choice for a mix of terrains and quick enough for the A to B sections too. I think it is slowly filtering through that the big macho bikes are no match for the lightweight dual sports when the going gets rough
@@xcaceuk A crf300 weighs in at +150kg, A 690/701 about 150kg....so don't agree with your 100kg statement
@@marcelfacd I think what he was on about was just size and weight. The lighter the better. And to tall creates problems when you need to put a foot down to help. These adventure bikes are great for road use. But would kill you off road. I have a adventure bike a gravel road is as near off road as I would take it. I have a few old enduro bikes for the harder trails.
An Africa Twin weighs almost 225lbs more than a Honda 300L. And Noraly is a light person. And she still gets stuck, and has issues getting up loose, rocky hills. Those huge displacement bikes wouldn't make it.
@@adrianrouse5148 so am I , but to say any bike that weighs more then 100kg should stay on pavement is plain bulls**t. A fully equipped dakar bikes weighs about 150-165 kg….my 690 150kg…..dare me.
You just said what I've felt for years. Downsized to a KTM 390 Adventure and couldn't be happier when the paved road ends.
İ have 250 Ktm Adventure and it is a great bike. On and off road.
Didn't someone once said that an "adventure" is to take inappropriate equipment to out of the way places?... For long distance touring and exploring, those big bikes are kind of nice... but for exploring off-road, we'll stick to our WR250R thank you.
@@ugrdncr They dont make a KTM 250 Adventure. They make an EXC dual sport bike.
@@bradsanders6954 KTM makes a 250 Adventure in India
@@bradsanders6954 we have the 250 adventure in Greece
I have an 05 GS 1200 and I love it. I'll go on gravel roads occasionally. We see these beautiful slow motion videos but realize that the people riding in them are many times the equivalent to an Olympic athletes. I don't watch the Olympics then go jump on the parallel bars and say, hold my beer and watch this!! Truthful video, thanks.
Yet another spot on video, Shonky! I’ve always been a Honda geek, and anyone who is has no doubt drooled over an ad or brochure of an Africa Twin. Picked up my 300 rally a few weeks ago, and the dealer had a used AT I looked over and sat on for a bit. BEAUTIFUL machine, but I would never even think of attempting a back country ride on that monster! Week long touring ride? Absolutely where that machine fits. Hats off to those who choose to wrestle these huge machines, for me I’ll just pack a bit lighter! Ride Red, ride on!
I could not agree with you more!! I upgraded from Gs1200 to T700. My next upgrade will be a CRF300👍
Well done! Yes, UPGRADE! Not Down Grade. very few realize that less could prove More, I don't understand why so many people are afraid to go down in CC like its a Sin to ride smaller CC bikes.
very sensible
KLE500 4ever
@@ripmax333 because of marketing. You need bigger bikes. IYou need 100, 200hp and you only 30 40. I bought a CB500x back in 2021 , and put it down on my first dirt road. It had 870km at that moment. Ok, I don't have experience with bikes on dirt road and don't ride it hard, but at 5km/h, the fork didn't take the bump and I was on the ground. Now I'm looking at Himalayan or a new jawa. But I don't think I would keep my cb500x for long.
ADV bikes in the 450-480 lbs range are truly the perfect all rounder bikes. Now if only we could convince one of the Japanese companies to make a Tuareg so I can have cruise control.
Choose the right tool for the job. It really is that simple. I have an Africa Twin and a KTM 350. Would I use the Africa Twin for riding technical single track or straight out rough as guts bush bashing? Of course not, it’s highly capable for what it is, but it’s too heavy. By the same token, would I load up the 350 with gear, slab it out 1000 ks to Broken Hill, camp overnight, and then spend a week riding The Flinders? Absolutely not. Two completely different bikes, two completely different purposes. It’s like comparing a shotgun to a rifle: they are both firearms, but that is about the only thing they have in common.
Finally someone with common sense, thank you!
This comment should be pinned. Exactly my thoughts. Not everything is black or white.
Nailed it!
You can understand the level of actual experience at off road riding that people have by their comments.
Right on point. I was almost sucked in recently. What saved me was that all those big adventure bikes were all too freaking tall for me. On top of that they failed to properly address short riders. So, I was so pissed that I bought a used Sport Touring bike instead and I'm very happy with my decision since I had enough money left to buy a much smaller 300 cc dirt bike so I could go and do some real adventure. Thanks for proving I did the right thing.
Hands down the best video essay I have seen on the subject. Well done, and I 100% agree with you!
I bought a DR650 years ago. Not even sure why I bought it, because I was very unexcited by it. Turned out to be a superb bike. Very capable in most conditions, comfortable, next to no maintenance. Guy who owned it before me rode it from the US to Brazil and back. Now I just stick to dirt. That's where I have the most fun.
Same here: got a DR650 a few years ago and can't stop riding it! Loving it so much, that I sold my "modern" adventure bike and kept the DR...
I had a 1991 Dr 650 Rs, 46hp, kick start, air cooled, 170kg..loved it so much. It's such a pity that all Japanese motorcycle manufacturers have given up on this market of simple, easy to ride and easy to maintain enduro bikes. I miss motorcycles like the XT, KLR, XL or DR.
@@massaberlin the new klr is pretty simple as far as adv bikes go.
I downsized from a KLR650 (great big guy bike) to a DR650 (I'm only 5'4") and it's better for me in every way. I consider the DR650 my large adventure bike as I have an XT225, although I like my TW200 even better on hilly trails.
Felt the same with my KLR. Quickly became my fave bike
While I agree mostly with this video, its about being true to yourself in what you want, what you're going to do and the compromises you are willing to make. Are the big ADV bikes heavy? yes. The down side to it is when you gotta pick them up, or go down slippery steep trails. But the upside is I can carry all my camp gear, get where I am going without being blown all over the road from trucks, feeling more stability on gravelly roads. Do you need 100HP? Yes and no. On the trails with no luggage? No I agree, its a hinderance more than help. BUT 100HP with a bike full of luggage, on a freeway that everyone is doing minimum 85-90mph, yes. ADV bikes are geared to do everything. In this, you are going to do nothing the best. I am personally ok with it as I understand the limitations of my bike, I understand other bike are better in some situations than mine, but by the same token, those better bikes off road are way worse in other areas than my bike. Would I want to take the light and nimble 390 down to the dragon on the freeway with all my gear, hell no. Is it better on single track than my Tiger? In some circumstances, yes, in others no. One example I noticed is the 390 being so light is horrible compared to the Tiger on things like deep gravel roads. The Tiger feels like a boat cutting the water, easy to steer and maneuver on it, the 390 feels like a rowboat in high waves in it. Like anything, you got to get to know your capabilities, and also important, your bikes. (I own a 2015 too-top-heavy Triumph Tiger Explorer XC and a KTM 390 Adventure (which has been in the shop since Oct :/ ).
I carried all my camp gear etc on a Honda Varadero.... No not the 1000, I had the 125, with some 50/50 road/trail tyres, and it was awesome. Took longer to get somewhere to then be where I wanted, but it went places.
Most bikes are capable of adventure, mopeds(100/150ccs) no problem climbing in mountainous off road areas in my country and 3up, or in some occasion more than 3 people on it.
I finally had time to take my CRF300 Rally for a 3 day trip last weekend, took it from Belgium to Luxemburg and was able to pack everything I needed and more tbh. Only carried food for one day but that's because my winter sleeping bag when compressed takes up about as much space as food for 4 days... I even carried a camping chair with me and a rather large 2 person tent so I could keep all my gear inside to keep it from freezing during the night. The test came when I entered Luxemburg, on the windy roads where signs indicated a 15% incline and it did it quite easily... On the way back I was on a steep incline doing about 90 km/h and only then did I have to shift back to 5th because my speed dropped a little and it got through it doing 90 easily. I tend to avoid highways, which I have always been doing, even with my larger Diversion900 back in the day because I find it boring. But that said, even with all my gear on the Rally, it behaved as expected, sure it was a tiny bit more work in the strong winds but not really much more than on my Diversion, my guess is that despite it's weight it also had a larger "side surface" which sorts of made it a large sail for side winds :) Have yet to do offroad with all my luggage on it since I haven't had the time to go out to places where offroading is legal or at least tolerated. I think the (lack of) power on smaller bikes is often times judged incorrectly as being insufficient. The big BMW GS has always been my dream bike since I watched Long Way Round but when I finally saved up enough money to get one, I realized that I wouldn't be able to handle it offroad so I looked at smaller bikes and settled on the Rally. Hope to get a BMW GS as well at some point, but tbh, for the kind of riding I want to do with all the luggage I need, I have found that the Rally is sufficient :)
thats pure bs we did montain pass in svaneti and trip around Georgia on 250-300cc bikes, and tell you what we passed heavy bmws on trails with our bikes...
The reality is adventure bikes sell you on something the bike can't really do. Have a tiger 800 and would not even think of taking it in anything more difficult than gravel roads. Just too heavy. Only 5% of anyone that buys a tiger 800 will use it in serious stuff and most of them would complain and find it more exhausting than fun.
Great points. I love my V-Strom 650; I put some Michelin 80/20 adventure tires on it and it is surprisingly capable off-road, but I have no illusions of it being a hardcore off-road bike. I spend most of my time on-road, but I like being able to turn off and explore wherever I feel like it. If I had a second bike, it would definitely be a small dual-sport. I like the names you suggested: "Travel bike" or "Off-road Touring bike". That's pretty much how I see mine.
The best bike is the most comfortable you feel when you are on . Simple, neat and concrete truth. Kudos mate, agree with you on each point.
Thanks
I was VERY reticent about buying a Royal Enfield Himalayan because of the minimal HP - eventually the price and the fact it was the only “Adventure” type bike that I could “flat-foot” decided for me. Having been riding for over 50 years and numerous bikes from a “Postie” to Trail Bikes and big HP Suzukis / Kawasaki road bikes, the 24HP was initially a concern BUT if you forget about electronics completely controlling how you ride and actually use the gears as they were meant to be used, 24HP is sufficient even for cruising at 100kph on the highway but becomes eminently suitable and useable in the bush - especially with similar Torque figures. I can slowly chug up steep loose inclines, while my mates on big KTM’s and BMW’s are sliding hopelessly backwards with their rear wheels spinning at insane revs. Yep - a big difference between marketing dreams and reality.
I've had a Himalayan for about 4 years and it's a fantastic bike. I'm a big guy and I took it and all my gear on a 2000km backroads trip a couple summers ago. It was perfectly capable and gave me no problems.
My 1090R has Off-Road mode on Traction Control. It eats the steep gravel roads effortlessly. In any adventure ride the pavement is 80% and the dirt 20%. Yes, it's heavy to pick up but that rarely happens.
Ive rode Himalayan on some pretty long trips and the horsepower shortage was never felt. I daily ride RC390 so half the HP on touring might feel less but the bike gives plenty of torque at low RPMs so I never felt I needed the acceleration I'm used to. Ive done light offroading on it using 17 inch street tyre on back and it still held up pretty okay.
New himalayan 450 will be better
I have a himalayan, I have been told by guys on 900cc's "holy crap that thing moves better than I thought" the bike has been amazing. It takes me everywhere, no issues. When I tell people what the engine in it is they always make a face, but I know the thing rides wherever I want it to
Thank you for bringing reality out. Many people fall in to traps emotionally and can't handle the bike. Thank you again 🇮🇳🙏
Thanks for the video, I've been thinking about the smaller lighter Honda XR150L and the more I learn, the more I realize that smaller and lighter is the logical choice for off-roading.
Got a CRF250 Rally and it's the best bike I've ever had. Does everything I need it to and goes everywhere I want to go. I will admit it could be lighter but it's still manageable. Edit: One other gripe is the slipper ring in the clutch. I swapped my clutch with a CBR300 pack. The stiffer springs and lack of slipper lets you use a lot more of the low end grunt rather than top end power, which reinforces the point that you don't always need high power for off roading.
I actually had a deposit on an AT abs was convinced it was the be all end all ADV for me. But luckily before the 2022s came in I had a realization that I’d really have more capability and a better time on a dual sport. I’m 2 months in on my 300L Rally and loving every minute of it
Great decision Travis. The 300L Rally has opened up so many more possibilities for me.
I'm on my third adventure bike in 20 years. For older riders they offer the most relaxing riding position. I occasionally go up gravel roads, but have no interest in serious off-roading.
Great review. Getting older now heavy bikes are more difficult. You have perfectly demostrated the down falls of heavy bikes in slippery conditions. You have have helped reset my mind in the next choice of bike.
Agreed, I’d never take a Africa twin to the dunes. But I would 100% take a AT on a RTW trip though the Himalayas and Pamir highway. When I think “adventure” that’s what comes to mind, not mud bogging or single track or dunes, that’s what dirt bikes and dual sports are for.
Be honest about your intended use and you’ll choose the right bike. Get a small bike, but consider how you’ll get to those single tracks. Get a big bike and learn how far you personally can take it. I have a big, heavy Super Ténéré, that works great for where I live; more touring focused (as stated), but It does off road surprisingly well.
Exactly!
"Get a small bike, but consider how you’ll get to those single tracks." EXACTLY! The big bikes help you get to those places where you can veer off on dirt roads and trails. Once there, you might wish you had a smaller, more agile bike, but that wouldn't be the bike that got you there.
100%, I have the S Tenere too, only since I have no adventure/offroad skills or intentions.. But I need it for the road mostly so it works for that purpose. Also, since I am touching 60, I prefer the space and riding position as well as the wind protection. The one point I have to agree with fully and strongest, I believe the big bikes were always too heavy in my mind to take it on the sand or any undulations, once you start loosing it, there is no recovery or comeback. you (I) am going down.
I agree. Here in CA, any freeway travel needs 75mph+ capability just to stay in the slow lane (to get to your destination). So it's all back roads on a light bike or being honest about the smooth unpaved roads for the heavy ones.
You give a great review of the problems with heavy adventure bikes. I have been going on somewhat long multiday group rides using a Suzuki DRZ400. The guys with the 1000cc+ bikes need to be really big and very experienced to handle those bikes where we go. The DRZ is very capable on the highway at 70-75mph, but really shines off road.
I cannot believe what I just watched. A bloke that actually knows what he is talking about. Good Job!
Thanks mate.
I totally appreciate your video. This is applicable to all advertized items. This is what i learned to be expectation management. I can't even begin to add up all times me with a sad face when toys didn't do what I saw them doing on the commercial. And now, my golden rules are; -Sleep it over before purchasing -Try before I buy -Talk to people, ask them about their experience/tell them my plan or expectation. You had me laughing outloud 😅
I agree 💯!! That’s one of the reasons I sold my KLR 650. Just to big and heavy. I’m 5’6 and couldn’t Imagine riding a H-D Pan American in the same places I rode my KLR. Awesome video!! Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
Thanks Mark, glad you like the video. The marketing guys think you are ready for that H-D Pan America and are willing to sell you one for a great price!
Same here. Sold my Klr and bought a Drz. Now I’m happy!
But klr is not big, just the right size imo.
Yep ! I owned a GS and sold it for a DR single. Did the GS turn heads? Yes, but only when I passed a cafe. Did the DR turn heads? No, but it went bloody everywhere. I rode like I was 16 again. Light, no shiny paintwork to scratch. Going to try an even lighter CRFRally next. I learned the motto ‘less power is more’ when it comes going off the beaten track ! Great vid Shonky 😊!
The bad thing about buying a DR is that it might be the last bike you ever buy
Totally agree. Had big Triumphs which I still love, but after you've struggled to pick it up a few times and constantly nervous that you could be stranded somewhere off road you realise this. I now ride a KTM 390 ADV and it really can be an adventure riding it just about anywhere.
Thank you for this! Exactly why I’m considering the Himalayan or CRF 300. I have a street bike for road riding but I definitely would like to do some dual sport adventures
Love the BEEPs lol. I work at a motorcycle shop where we work on Japanese sport, dirt and cruisers. Whenever an adventure bike comes In we can't wrap our heads around how anyone could possibly take those tall, massive things off road. Your video solidifies this in my mind. Maybe the tenere 700 could handle it as a lighter, "smaller" bike. But I agree anything sub-500cc would be great offroad. Cheers!
Tenere 700 weighs more than 200kgs! Bonkers!
Spot on, mate! I sold my CRF 250 Rally for a Ducati Desert Sled thinking it's more Adventure Ready with that big powerful L-twin engine, retro scrambler offroad ready looks but I was wrong and now I am getting a CRF 300 Rally again! It's small, lightweight, and it will go anywhere you take it. I have taken my Rally up the high mountain roads in Nepal, so much fun and confidence inspiring! That little single cylinder Honda is the perfect machine for offroad touring!
Nailed it. I have a DRZ400S, been riding for 35yrs and the stock “dual sport” tires were absolutely treacherous off the road. With knobby tires it’s a true “adventure bike”.
I have a CRF300l and was getting a bit obsessed about getting a new AT. Thanks for bringing me back to my senses!
Hi Dale, the AT is a great bike but just remember, it can't go everywhere you take the CRF300l as easily. 👍
Your video was great and eye-opening. I will keep my CRF300 here in Nicaragua and points south then maybe the AT for the States later on. 👍all the motos here are -150 anyway.
@@daletalaplaya5086 Great choice 👍
It's Funny. I categorise this advice in 2 groups :- 1. You NEED the big adventure bike - From people who spend most or all of their time on road 2. You WANT a smaller bike - From Offroaders, who've had to pick up a bike 8 or 9 times a day, every day. Adventure is what you make of it, and if you're going places to see them, why do you want 100hp to fly past at 70+ ? You're supposed to be seeing places. I've go 68hp, and I never open full throttle, I do wind up the speed a bit, but can't recall going Wide open on the grip.
It's taken be a while to understand that the journey is more enjoyable at a slower speed.
Location makes a difference 😁 herein Australia the phrase "just up the road" can mean anything from 300m to 3 days ride. Horses for courses..... While we have some stunning scenery, three days of red dust and Spinifex is much more enjoyable at highway speeds In contrast, Tasmania is a state where travelling on a 300 would-be my recommendation
@@tazpartridge1612 You're right Taz, "Horses for Courses". I'm not trying to tell anyone what bike to get, just pointing out that you need to make your own choices, not just listen to the marketing hype.
Great video, and spot on. I just traded my Africa Twin for a smaller Z900RS. For the type of riding I actually do (weekend warrior, on road), the AT just wasn't well suited to me. The AT was a great bike, but definitely more than my skill level can use.
The much needed reality check for every adv daydreamer 😊 (Like me) who know that they can really do with a Smaller rally bike but they "need" that big bike Thank you
100%. Another happy RE Himalayan owner and its exactly what I was looking for. It will go almost anywhere I can take a dedicated dirt machine (50 years riding experience, including rock gardens in Colorado at 13k ft). And the RE or similar class dual sports will still do reasonable miles on hardtop when needed or desired. Lighter and simpler is better every day of the week and twice on Saturdays.
Been on one for couple years now & it's better than my last few bikes
The Himalayan is almost 200 kg.
Since when is Himalayan light. It's a best.
Love my Himalayan! So glad to read your comment! Agree %100 the Himalayan does everything amazingly well and handling is outstanding off-road.
@@sameerdawood8277 the Himalayan is super light feeling because of its incredibly low center of gravity. My KLR weighs probably about the same but is four times as hard to throw around
I fully agree. These big bikes cost a fortune and includes massive tech, but most riders don't use half of their ability under normal circumstances. I was almost suck into the marketing hype, but fortunately saw through it. I bought a Honda NC750X in 2014 and spent almost half its original price in luggage and other upgrades to make it comfortable as a two-up tourer. It was still almost a third of the price of a basic large adventure bike. We have since toured our country, and a few others, over a distance of almost 100 000km and still have not spent as much as the price of a big bike. It is more than powerful enough to travel national speed limits with ease and we have had awesome adventures, even on dirt roads.
Well done mate, sounds like you have a great bike for you and your partner.
thanks for the comment. im buying an nc750x next week after a 40 year hiatus from riding. im going to use it mainly for an every day ride but would like to take my wife on it on occasional long trips. any thoughts on 2 up touring on it? thanks
@@tschoonhoven2011 Unless you love the massive power of the liter plus sport tourers and racing friends through mountain passes, the NC will fill all your needs. It will exceed the national speed limit with luggage and a pillion if you want, but runs best up to 140 km/h fully loaded. It has enough power to pass cars at national speeds, but you need to ride it like a car. The torque is very good at low revs. The seats can be hard over long distances and you will need to make it more comfortable or use e.g. Airhawk cushions. Although it is intended as a daily commuter, small improvements can turn it into an excellent tourer. I extended the pillion pegs further forward to better the leg angle for my wife, added Honda topbox and luggage, added heated grips and a touring screen, etc. We mostly tour two-up and, as mentioned above, have done many kilometers that included some dirt roads and we use about half the fuel that our friends with their big bikes use. We tested most large adventure bikes over the years, but have not yet found a bike worthy of replacing the NC.
I've gone from BMW R1150GS to Honda Transalp 600V to Surron Ultra Bee. Each downsize saved me about 100kg. The Ultra Bee is 85kg and I can pick it up time and time again. It's not a travel bike since it's electric but it takes me on insane terrain that I wouldn't have dared on my previous bikes. The BMW's were a nightmare in Mongolia where I live, for Charlie and Ewan when the going to rough. Even the Honda Transalp got bogged down in the Gobi sands when I tried it. I became exhausted from picking it up and it's only a "mid-weight" adventure bike. For petrol bikes, I think a maximum of 250cc is probably okay but I look at weight first and 100kg is about the most I want to deal with. There's precious few motorcycles with petrol engines in that range. That's one of the reasons I went electric.
This exactly what I needed to see! I’m looking for a dual sport and ADV bike, tons of marketing with KTM and software upgrades . What I needed was the reality check and this video help assess the difference!
Glad to help. Just work out where and how you like to ride and choose a bike that lets you do that with ease.
That's why Royal Enfield have hit the sweet spot with the Himalayan, sturdy, 25hp, good fuel range, and inexpensive to buy/maintain. The bike is built to go anywhere in India, so it can handle whatever I throw at it.
Sounds perfect. I haven't ridden one yet, but am looking forward to testing one in the future.
@@ShonkyProductions it's slow as for HP but the torque is what pulls it through most stuff & it's brought on at a low idle, done many trails on it, did sputter out on EXTREME inclines, & is very top heavy in sand & mud but everything else has been wonderful few other nit piks but out weigh by the good stuff
a bit more power would be nice. the 400 should put out 30-35 hp but REs are old, slow tech.
@@franmitch3589 i never gave mine the chance to sputter out. if it was an extreme incline i was hitting it at full speed, full throttle, and wheelspin haha.
@@0xsergy actually it's a new engine design
You said what everyone knows out loud! I have a friend who bought a T7 and sold it in less than a month because he had zero skills offroad! Now he rides a Ducati Multistrada V4 and keeps her on the tarmac. For me has an experienced enduro and motocross rider, the T7 was sweet when he let me ride it. The thing is that marketing tries to sell the bikes like they will make anyone a great offroad rider but actually you have to have the skill and experience! Great video.
Thanks mate, that's it exactly... They seel the idea that you'll be able to ride it like they show on the advertising.
The best and most truthful video I have watched in the last 12 months. Cheers buddy well done
Good point and good video for anyone that wants to do more off-road than highway. Often adventure touring means *touring* and it is here that the big bikes excel. Bringing camping gear, changes of clothes so that you can walk around the city or area you’re visiting, and some camping amenities - the big bikes shrug this off. Clicking on the cruise control for a few hours between the sections of dirt road or Jeep trail is where the big 1000+ CC bikes shine. You’re not wrong though, if your idea of adventure is more sand and mud than asphalt by all means, less is absolutely more.
I took my Multistrada with standard Pirelli 17 inch tires across Africa - South Africa, Namibia, Angola etc - over hills, mountains, deserts, sea, sand and much more - no issues except for burst backtires which I had to get guys to fly in spares. Most awesome trip - alone - but then I was at that time seriously competing in S1 Supermoto Nationals as well as Off-road races such as Roof of Africa etc. It can be done, and most enjoyable - camping in the veldt, where you want, not seeing another human for 100kms. At exactly 118km/h, the Ducati lifts out of the sand and becomes a plaything, wheelies galore... What you said is 100% accurate though as you will need experience to do it and the crappy feeling of trying not to crash an expensive bike in the middle of nowhere. The Multi itself came through with flying colours - with the last couple of 100km's home, flat-out on highways. My reason was that I still wanted a quick bike on tar with off-road abilities. That in itself is a complete and utter BS statement from marketeers as my first trip from South Africa to France through Africa was on a standard BMW RT with full fairings - NOT an off-road at all. As you mentioned - weight kills it. The problem here is also - even if you use a smaller bike, all the gear you have to take along also weighs a ton - making small bikes terrible on tar. I'm ranting more than giving my previous experiences but I would still take a larger, more powerful bike - what is now deemed "middle weight", rip off all the crap you do not need, make it as light as possible, and just go for it - add more powerful lights, try and get rid of all electronics..but this time more relaxed and not the almost 300km per hour top speeds that you used to do. My incoherent 2c worth...
I've wanted a GS ever since watching them roost through the Sahara dominating the Dakar back in the day. Well I finally got mine (a beautiful red 2013) a couple years ago. I've been riding dirt bikes my whole life so I was quite confident in my ability to take it off road and headed to this big sand pit I know well from dirt biking. Ripping down the gravel entry road I was so jazzed for the epic Roosting I was about to do. Then I hit the soft sandy stuff with my 70/30 tires and images of expensive shiny parts bouncing and scraping along the ground ran through my head as this behemoth of a bike squirmed under me. I quickly turned around and headed back to firmer terrain. The GS is not a dirt bike. At first I was a little bummed but since then I have fallen head over heals in love with the bike for what it actually is. A comfortable, stable and powerful sport tourer that can do light off-roading and look totally badass while doing it.
Gary, A lot of us have done very similar things. With my Africa Twin, I was sold by the advertising of it blasting over sand dunes through the desert but when I took it on a beach, I couldn't wait to get mack to the formed dirt roads.
that's just how ADVs ride in sand brother. I learned to ride my first motorcycle ever offroad on 70/30 tires in sand. It was exactly as you described, squirmy and all over. 400+lbs on the same size tires as your dirtbike means it will sink more, you just need more momentum to start "floating" across the sand. I'd suggest to try again. Find a nice deep sand pit where there is no damage to be caused. And maybe drop the tire pressure a tiny bit, 22F/26R might help you.
Well it’s just a GS they don’t look that good
I agree with your perspective whole heartedly, when solo riding. When 2 up and loaded down, the middle weights struggle more than I’d like. I have a 500exc for rough stuff and the adv is for riding mostly road with wife or kids.
The perfect pair!
I started my "adventure" some 20+ years ago on African Twin. First I thought I will never learn to handle or ride properly, bike was constantly stuck or on it's side. After years of try and regret I finally got myself much lighter KLX dual sport, which for me was more like a dirt bike and so much nicer to ride. Big bikes are travel bikes and hp is for highways.
Great Video. I totally agree with the offroad capability of the smaller ADV bikes. But I'm a 300-pound dude riding 600 pounds BMW GSA. Even while getting my buddy's KLR 650 unstuck from the mud, the KLR seemed like a tiny bike. I've had a 2016 Yamaha Super Tenere and recently a Pan America Special in the past. I've had several dirt bikes like the WR450 and such. The most significant advantage bigger bikes have over smaller bikes is the extended range. I live in Northern Nevada. Nevada is one of the most mountainous states in the US. The average valley between mountains is 70 miles long by 15 to 30 miles wide. These smaller single-cylinder ADV bikes can quickly deplete a gas tank just getting from one mountain range to the next. Not to mention their comfort level at 80mph speeds. There are many scenarios that a Large ADV Bike outshines the smaller bikes except for the technical ability, of course. Most Deserts are enormous, and so are the bikes I like to ride in them. For myself, I'm going to look just as awkward riding a 300cc Rally with 5 gallons of gas strapped to the back as I do digging out my 600 pound GSA from a sand dune. LOL. Love the vid. New sub. Keep it up. On a side note, the Pan America is far from an adventure bike; it was a total POS that blew the engine at 5000 miles. If you get time, check out my vids.
Hi Adventure Glide, thanks for your detailed reply. I agree with you 100%... it's about people making their own choice about what best suits their individual needs, not what marketing tells them they need. The 300 Rally is certainly not for everyone, especially if you are a bigger guy. I'm only small and light so it suits me fine, while I can, and have in the past, ridden big bikes, the 300 suits me. I don't want people to buy a 300, I'd just like them to make informed choices. I have had a quick look at your videos... you have some amazing riding areas and I hope one day to get over there. I'll be watching more tonight. 👍
@@ShonkyProductions Sat on a 300 standard at a dealer and it almost turned into a hardtail. I think I had 2 1/2 inches of rear suspension left. However I only weigh about 250 lbs. These days however, it would not be safe to ride for me without spending 4k in suspension upgrades.
I agree: bike weight is overwhelmingly important on anything more 'off=road' than simple gravel. I had an ancient XR 200 and that thing would go down once a day but I could always pick it up and it never destroyed itself or me. As for the quality argument I promise everyone that a CRF 300 Rally is at least as well built and of at least the same quality as any Euro bike of any spec at all - and I am currently a happy owner of a BMW road bike.
Great video. As an owner of both an ATAS and a CRF300l, your analysis is spot on. I use the twin for touring and gravel/forest service roads where there’s little chance of dropping it. The 300l is for the gnarlier stuff where a big bike would be a nightmare.
The perfect stable of bikes to cover all rides 👍
Really loved your video. It really made lof of clarifications on the concepts. Thnks for this bro n pls continue making such. I have a 310gs bmw n love it but will never go higher on CC.
Thanks mate. I have been sampling bigger bikes lately, but they only show how much easier small bikes are when you take them off road.
Great video, I totally agree, I never understood those really big bikes going off road if you’re unable to pick them up on your own
Exactly!
I dropped my DR650 on single track the other day. Stood up and picked it up from the low side of the hill. 42 bhp…plenty. Smaller bikes are fun off-road but touring can be a bit uncomfortable. Bigger bikes are good for road touring but on dirt they are a pain. Everything is a compromise. DR650 is in the sweet spot for both. Always aim for as close to that as possible on the smaller side. 👍🏻😁
I'm thinking the DR650 might be the sweet spot for me as well.
@@ronsexton3685 find a good recent model second hand one where the owner has spent a fortune on mods…it’ll save you spending 😀
@@ronsexton3685 Can't beat the DR - simple, effective, light, versatile and 1001 aftermarket accessories. The last bit might be a drawback! 🤣
I liked this video review and yes, I think you're spot on. I've owned maybe eight or nine bikes in my life and the best for going off road were under 400cc. They are just more nimble and easier to wrench on. The right ones will pull wheelies and scare the daylights out of you if that's something that you want too. Big bikes are so much harder to lift off the ground and throw around.
Absolutely true brother, cutting through all the screens and filters that are bogging our senses by too much advertisements you have given a truthful opinion which I can relate to. In my younger days I had a blast with my Yamaha RX 100 2 stroke in almost all terrain. Now to revive those years I've set sights on the KTM 390 adventure but I know deep in my heart it will never be like the RX.
I generally agree with you, and definitely don't follow the hype of needing the biggest, baddest, fastest, heaviest bike out there. The middle-weight range is really where it's at for balancing off road capability and on road comfort. I have a Tenere 700 I expect to adventure on for the next several years and really like the balance they've achieved here.
Yes, I agree. The middle-weight ADV bikes are very close to being the perfect "Adventure" bikes. But, only if you can handle their size and weight. I have a mate who is 6'6" and he throws one around like an enduro bike. Enjoy your bike, you made a good choice. 👍
The T7 is a nice looking bike but way too heavy and also top heavy for solo adventure riding. 160kg or less is my ideal wet weight which once you add luggage is still considerable in muddy and Sandy conditions
Man, I really wish Honda would produce a "rival" to the Tenere :)
@@gokulkrishm51 they are working on it, a 750. However I still think the “perfect “ size would be a crf 450 rally, just like the 300 but on a 450 base. Or the 701/690 on the 500 platform with adventure kit, in other words a 901 on a 501 platform.
@@O_Xixas My ideal motorcycle would be a blend between the Africa twin and Tenere. There's no perfect motorcycle. To each their own.
I had the Yamaha Super Tenere, awesome touring bike that is capable of going on unpaved roads. I traveled a lot on it. After pushing it out of the garage a while back, I decided it was too heavy to enjoy off road. Got a KTM 690, think it’s going to do the trick!
Damn! Finally! This is the single most informative, neigh BEST, motorcycle vid I've seen in a long time! I have a V-Strom-650 XT (not that big) and I had to stop riding at my local motorcycle park because it was the "wrong kind of bike" (too heavy). Now I'm thinking about downsizing to a 250 (I'm 5'6" 150 lb). Thanks for the confirmation that I'm not crazy!
WE're not crazy!
You are certainly on the money with this video and I can relate in my own way. Right now, I ride and really love my CF Moto 700 CL-X. Before that bike, I rode a Harley Ultra. Around town, 50% of riding the Ultra for me was just making sure that I didn't drop the thing. For road use, the CF Moto is so light and maneuverable.
You hit the nail. I have an Africa twin and love it. I grew up in a similar gravel roads in Pakistan where it was normal living. I can't imagine having a +500 lbs (or + 700 in case of a GS) bike and lifting it up lol.
But the Africa Twin IS a 500+lb bike.
Totally agree. I really want a fantic caballero 500 as that seems like the perfect option for decent offroad ability but also fun on-road
Sounds like a great bike.
thanks for pointing this out. This really opened my eyes
Glad to hear it. Have a good think about where and how you want to ride, then choose a bike that lets you do that easily.
I know there are "better" bikes out there, but I always consider cost and used market availability into the equation. So my practical lighter bike choices were the TW200 at 128kg/278 lb and XT225 122kg/268 lb. Although I appreciate the 25 extra cc's, it's the six-speed transmission that I like most about the XT225. I was surprised to find that the TW200 is easier for me to ride up hills, through ruts, and on twisty roads. I really can't decide between the two. So if time and money allow, my next winter project will be to make a TW225 6-speed. And possibly have an XT200 5 speed left over and maybe up for sale. I considered the Himalayan 400 and the CRF300 too expensive and I got both the TW200 and XT225 for much less than one of those.
I bought my first bike and it's a tw200. For now, it's more than enough!
Soo true. I have a GS1250 which is awesome for long road trips two up carrying luggage with occasional adventurous potholes🙄. If I want to get dirty I have an old xr400, perfect combination. Completely different tools that excell at what they are designed to do. Keep up the great videos👍
Love my Tenere 700 but on all the trails I take it on I usually pass someone who's got there first in the family car.
😂
Adventure is what YOU make it.
That's my experience as well lol... Riding through some Titus canyon in Death Valley... Passing a family of four doing the same route in a Rav4 :))
@@alvk3996 meanwhile your out in the sun sweating balls and getting dehydrated lol
Those Subaru drivers are pretty damn brave though.
Pretty spot on. For myself I am happy to stay with my 657cc XR650L which has been on a diet so it is pretty light. 149kg with a full Clarke tank and decent suspension too. There is more fun to be had with a lighter bike. I still rate the 650 class aircooled bikes as a fantastic compromise that combine decent power, suspension and the ability to do things from mild to wild.
I just watched a couple of your videos and your bike does look very well setup. Congratulations on a great build.
Wow !! Nice !! That is lighter than my old XL500 wet weight !!
@@davidnobular9220One of my first bikes was an XL250!
They do seem like a good combination. I am after about 40 years thinking of getting a DR650. (shorter seat height, 34.8")
Being able to leave my garage, ride interstate at 90mph fully loaded, race up and down mountains roads fast at full lean against traditional sport tourer, then ride off-road, then ride back home to my garage is why I enjoy my 1190 adventure. That is a dawn to dusk full day ride. To really enjoy off-road might mean just using a trailer and proper dual sport or dirt bike.
Well said mate! =i still ride an 89 CR, same as i had 35 yrs ago, whats traction control?
Great analysis. In 2014 I really wanted a 6 speed DRZ400E. Say 500cc, 6 speed, 120Kg, long range, lower, better seat, v twin, small wind protection for the long hauls, good lights, adjustrable suspension, solid robust rear frame - the list goes on. The first 500cc Tiger (KTM, Honda or anything) modern dirt biased adventure bike not man nor mountain can kill and one person can pick up when loaded in hot sand, will sell like hot cakes. Particualy once the marketing team do their spin. Keep up the good work.
Thanks John, I hope the manufacturers are reading your reply, because that is the bike a lot of us are waiting for.
With EFI! and a big tank. The single was fine for the dirt. Lighter.
Probably the closest thing to those specs currently is ktm 500 exc.
@@megapet777 which I own and I agree 100%. Moreover, few people realise that the power-to-weight ratio of the EXC500 is better than many 100+hp "adventure bikes". So it's faster, half the weight, with much better suspension and almost nothing to break when you eventually drop her.
@@C_R_O_M________ Yep it sure is awesome bike and really fun too. There's also ktm 690, bit heavier but it's pretty good choice if you aren't going into the absolutely gnarliest places.
Nicely done, I went through the same process, started with a Moto Guzzi V85, and found out the hard way that it was too heavy, did not have the right tires, and was total overkill. Great travel bike to go occasionally off-road. Switched to a KLX 230 and could not be happier. I think the biggest problem for a lot of folks is that we want that one bike that can do it all, but you really need different bikes for different riding. Cheers!
Ive got three "bikes" all different.. One is my "go camping bike" a BMW F650GS.. The next is my Royal Enfield 500 Classic for just tootling about the city.. And the third is my "open roader" a CanAm F3S Spyder Daytona... Definitely different than the other two...
@@sirgalah561 I have a CanAm Ryker that I am thinking to change to a Spyder, I know most folks don't like them but they are actually great for what they are!
sold my svartpilen 401 for a liter bike... one season later, I kinda miss that little thumper. I mean, I was able to follow 600cc or even 1000cc in the canyons, i'm always ready to hit the gravel if there is construction zone or unpaved road. now I'm thinking to switch to something a little more upright and less hp, passenger friendly so I could maybe convince my wife to join me. As a single rider, 400cc to 650cc is really more than enough for all day situations.
100% agree with all of this. I have similar discussions with friends all the time. Those big bikes are for highways and easy gravel roads ONLY.
Before the Adventure Bike term was invented we called them trail bikes in UK. They were usually around 125 to 650 single cylinder two or four stroke machines. Back then you just picked the tool for what you wanted to do, much as you have. Most of mine were either 400 or 600 cc four strokes. The latter being better on the road, the former better off-road. When it came to what I called extreme trail riding it was a cross between a trials and trail bike. In my case a 1986 Honda TLR250R. 6 speed gearbox, so it could cruise at 55 to 60 mph on road, topping out at 70, but still climb very steep rocks and slopes. Twin fuel tanks as standard with around 60 mpg imperial gallon. The second tank was where the air filter normally is, as the filter was in the headstock which allowed the bike to keep running even when the exhaust and seat were under water. Anyhow you get my point. These days however as I approach 70 I have an ‘adventure’ bike, but one with a 19” front wheel which has 2” less suspension travel than its more off-road orientated brother which has a 21”. So, my bike is just a motorcycle that can do gravel roads with my Dunlop Mutant tyres. That’s less than 1% of the time. What’s more important is it’s very comfortable on road, having way more suspension than a sports bike, a sit up riding position helps that too. The brakes are incredible, all of the above which I need for Scotland’s poorly surfaced tarmac backroads. Is it an adventure motorcycle? Yes, if you want it to be. It would take me around the world. To me it’s just a motorcycle, my 53rd one and does exactly what I want it to do at this stage of my life. It’s a far cry from what I started out on 55 years ago. If it’s got two wheels it’s whatever you want it to be…within its design limitations.
Every bike I ever owned was a adventure bike, my street bikes took me on many adventures on and off road.
That's exactly it... We decide what is adventure for us.
Not wrong.. my $25 1972 Hodaka Wombat 125 is on its fifth speedometer
True. I have been on board on an Africa Twin 1000, a 650, 450 and 250's (sold some and handed down some as a gift to my brother) but I seem to have been missing all the fun.. Now the CRF 300L has given me a new light in riding. Realizing that a smaller displacement is all you ever need. I was riding through a typhoon drenched road yesterday here in the Philippines and come across heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, flood, mud and high current water overflows whilst having a big smile on my face just to see and be with my kids on other side of the island. Indeed, I got through them all obstacles with all the fun on a 300. For me it was a true adventure. Cheers!
I'm currently in Colombia on a KLR 650 and completely concur with everything you said. I've had this bike 20 years now & years ago I could pick it up if I dropped it. Today? No chance. As you get older you lose your strength, consequently, some of the roads I want to go down are now off-limits to me. Next bike I get will be something in the 250/350 range.
Well said mate “ a WISE ADV traveler once said NO ONE ☝️ complains about smaller and lighter “ just bigger and heavier “
Haha... That's great. I hadn't heard that before.
Totally agree. I grew up riding dirt bikes, and now have a Tiger 800. While I do love the Tiger (I ride on roads exclusively these days due to a back injury), I can't imagine taking that thing off-road and expecting good results. It's gonna get dumped...a lot. There are reasons that they make lightweight dirt bikes.
i rode with a guy on a tiger and he did good. he had some decent tires on it though.
I have Tiger 900 Rally Pro and go to offroad all the time. Granted, I dont have deserts anywhere withing thousands of miles where I live so I dont drive those, but small forest roads/paths are perfectly doable with it and I have dropped it less than 5 times in 20k miles. Mostly touring yes, but to me going long distances and spending 2 weeks on the bike with camping in wilderness all the time IS an adventure, while finding the hardest enduro tracks and testing my technical riding skils on it is NOT. I disagree with the video about the definition of adventure.
I appreciate this video so much. Thank you. I am planning a fall trip to Colorado to attempt the Ducati Challenge, 12 passes above 12,000’. I am taking my 1200 Multistrada Enduro. Trailmax tires, crash bars and sliders added. Hard panniers. I was going to ride out from central Texas but now I think I will trailer out to Telluride.
A great review of reality. I'm a smaller guy in my 60's and ride a dr650. Was offroad, tore my knee and passed out. Awoke to the bike on top of me on rocks with my good leg trapped hard underneath with my upper body in a bad position. It took some time but eventually I got out. If I was on something much bigger I'd still be there feeding the critters. It's not super light but it's not 220+ kilos either. I've read similar stories....
I’m glad to have gotten this perspective. Thank you
Great video mate, love it. Marketing is to sell people on what they could do, not what they will do! 😜 The problem for marketers is they have to sell the same dream to many people with different intentions so they instead have to be broad and just excite the potential customer with fancy images and visuals. It’s like lotto, they sell tickets based on what you will do when you win, even though you won’t.
That's a great explanation!
It's pretty much the same for Jeeps and even Land Rovers that will never see dirt. The commercials a re great though.
Yes! I couldn't understand ADV bikes until I started to think of them as touring rigs that can venture off-road without falling over.
That's a great explanation of these big adventure bikes.
@@ShonkyProductions if they were marketed more as "Dual Sport Touring" bikes, I think there would be less marketing fluff (though obviously, "adventure" bikes sells, just like "overlander" bullshit 4x4 rigs do) I keep my Africa Twin away from mud because it's too tall/heavy, and the rear immediately breaks loose and tries to kick out from under you in the muck. BUT, for interstate cruising at 80+ miles / 130+ kilometers an hour on the highways, then hitting rock and gravel service roads to explore, it's sublime. You're never worried about dragging exhaust or cracking the engine casing from a random rock. Depending on how Honda handles the new Trans Alp, I may be downsizing from the CRF1100 to that 750cc build, but the trade off here in Wyoming is < 500lbs bikes are very easily blown off the highways. Even the big liter bikes can find themselves on the shoulder or getting pushed into the other lane by gusts.
Great video mate. I have owned an 1190R KTM and I'd like to think that I did put it through its paces for someone who is an average rider and only 5'9". It bothers me that manufacturers put so much r and d into their big bikes yet as you have described its really the smaller bikes you want if you really want to go an "adventure". Cheers man
Very true 👍 said. I use to had bigbike for touring. But in recent year. I use only 200 or 250 even for long touring usage. It don't wear you down. During pushing that dead weight of the bike. Love you high like n comparsion
Bro 🙌🙌🙌 You’re making me feel better about my RE Interceptor with 47 HP and knobby tires. 😂
why? you were unsure of your decision? Trust me, if you start to like going deeper into offroad you would soon buy even a smaller, lighter motorcycle. been there.
I have a friend like that, he lives in downtown Toronto, Canada and rides a KTM Adventure 1290 I think, anyway the big KTM bike. All he does is riding around the city calling himself a "real" adventure rider while making fun of anyone riding a smaller bike. I would love to see him go off-road riding , just once.
Yes, I see a few of those riders too. I see them in the city and at the coffee shops and small town cafes. I never see dirt on their bikes...
Yup, just like the jackass with his Pan American in the video!😂
Great review, real and useful conclusions, excellent comparison between marketing and reality. Thank you a lot.
Offroad touring is a very appropriate name for ADVs in my opinion. Dual sport or enduro is for serious offroad work. I did know the limitations of my ADV before I bought it. because I started my offroad journey on a dr250. Slow is the way to go if you wanna progress fast.
Totally agree. The closest to the ideal adventure motorcycle is the 701. In off road riding no one needs 70 hp but it's strong enough to enjoy pushing hard on winding roads. The downside is the pillion that can't enjoy the situation, proper windshield and the uncomfortable height . A little lower and comfortable and the 701 could be perfect adventure bike.
Well said. The 701 is pretty close to the perfect "Adventure bike"
@@ShonkyProductions i had the 690 smc-r and currently own the 890 adv r and the 1290. I think the 690/701 is the better dual when offroad is a big thing but distances on the highway also common.
I have 690, still heavy for offroad or trails. Unless you learned in smaller 250 or 350. If your trying to learn on 701 or 690 your done.
@@sameerdawood8277 depends, sumo rider for long time. First bike was a 550 sxv which was tuned to 100hp. The 250/300 are amazing for technical trials but i can do it with the 690 and i guess a lot of people will be able to.. maybe with some additional effort. But you can still drive home over the highway, try that with your 250/300.
Oh don't get me wrong. If there is a more reliable for road use 300 i would instantly buy it
I think the best marketing win for adventure bikes is the rider skills element. They sell you a bike that is difficult to ride, then they sell you courses that teach you how to ride it. Day one of the course? Learn and practice the special technique needed to pick up your monster bike! This is the most important skill for ADV motorcycling.
Very true Bernie. I wonder how many adventure riders know the techniques or actually practice them before they go riding.
Mate- nice video. Totally with ya. Small displacement Motos are the way i roll these days too. On the track, street and trails. I love my CRF too 👌
Thanks Mate. Yes, I am liking mine more and more. just makes everything easy and enjoyable... Even just running down to the shops for milk!
You nailed it. The definition of "adventure" is key. But we humans are suckers for marketing. My funnest times on motorcycles (adventures, touring and travel) have been on a 300, 150, 125, and 110.
Yes, I have found that when you are not worried about being restricted by a heavy bike, you just enjoy the adventure more. I now enjoy the slower pace as I get to look around and take it all in.
@@ShonkyProductions totally agree, see more and spend less, win win.
I got an nc700x as my first and current bike and the previous owner piled $2k+ in of mods onto it, mostly "ADV" mods. Most of what he added is actually useful but he only rode it 1500 miles over 7 years, so I'm thinking he had some aspirations that it's just not capable of fulfilling. It's a perfect commuter and cheap touring bike, which is what I got it for.
You nailed it. I did the same thing. The T7 came out, and I was head over heals. Less than a year later I sold it. Highway, and gravel roads, it was brilliant, but rough dirt roads, nope. Sure if I was a better rider, I could have gotten more out of it, but if I dropped it, which I did numerous times, I was in trouble. The first day I had my 300 Rally I took it to a rocky, muddy pitch, that had given me fits on the T7, and guess what, I rode right up it. Some of the big rocks I delicately rode around, some I simply rode over. I steered it into the muddy, rocky rut and both the bike and I laughed out loud. Yep, love at first ride.
Hi JM, thanks for your comments. I wonder how many people have had the same experience as us? Great choice you made with the 300 Rally. While it's not for everyone, it is perfect for me.
Same here, sold the T7, too top heavy and not built to drop. Ordered a 701
Exactly 🎶
How do you rate the CRF’s mile munching capability? Can you ride it all day long?
@@vwsyncro With the SeatConcepts seat, I sure can. I have done several 300km+ days and a few 600km+ weekends.
Which is why I bought the CT125 when it came out and not a big bike. I take it on narrow forest trails, and camping trips, I can pick it up and it can get up and down steep rocky hills (I put some knobbly tires on it). Loved every minute of owning it and have no regrets over a big bike. C90Adventures showed the logic of owning a small, simple bike that can be repaired anywhere.
I bet you can get to some amazing places on that bike 👍
Accurate video. I look at it this way: Offroad or mostly offroad - single cylinder. Road (tarmac and dirt) with the goal of riding more than one hour comfortably - two or more cylinders.
That''s a great, and really simple way to explain it 👍