We flip the script by putting together ten adventure bikes that offer a combination of strong low-end torque and a punchy performance curve to handle challenging off-road situations, along with an underpinning that gives it a more civilized side, allowing it to cover many miles on tarmac. By HarleyFrom the first ever ADV, which has proven to be a big hit, to the most affordable ADV available for under $6,000 with adjustable seat height, this list is lively.
To give you the most current and accurate information, the data used to compile this article is from authoritative sources including Aprilia USA, Yamaha Motorsports USA, Royal Enfield USA, CFMoto Motorcycles USA, KTM USA, Triumph Motorcycles USA, Honda Powersports USA, Harley-Davidson USA, Ducati USA and BMW Motorrad USA. This list is arranged in descending order of price, from the most expensive to the most affordable adventure bikes that shine equally well on asphalt and off-road.
Here are the most expensive adventure bikes from all the popular brands
With the rise and rise of the adventure bike segment, all the major manufacturers have something high-end on offer
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Price: $19,999
The very first Harley ADV is also the only HD that perfectly combines off-road and on-road finesse. Its 1,252 cc Revolution Max V-twin is eagerly tuned and ready to kick up a storm. It produces 150 horsepower and 95 pound-feet of torque, peaking at 8,750 rpm and 6,750 rpm, respectively.
It has a solid torque curve that should help the Pan America 1250 in its urge to climb mountains. Other notable features include electronically adjustable suspension with 7.5 inches of travel, switchable ABS with cornering function, linked brakes and Hill Hold Assist.
Ducati DesertX
Price: $18,495
The most affordable Ducati adventure bike is also the brand’s most capable off-roader. With a lightweight package and a meaty V-twin engine, this Ducati balances on- and off-road capabilities like a boss. It is powered by a 937 cc V-twin engine that produces 110 PS at 9,250 rpm and 68 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.
Combine that with its relatively low curb weight of less than 500 pounds, and this Ducati exudes an agile and spirited appeal, even through dense dunes. The capabilities are further enhanced by features such as the fully adjustable KYB suspension and knobby Pirelli Scorpion Rally STRs wrapped around wheels.
Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Price: $17,595
This is clearly the most balanced Triumph Tiger 900 series. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro is known for its versatile character. It features a combination of 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels with fully adjustable long-travel suspension.
Complementing its off-road capabilities is a robust 888cc inline-3 engine that produces 106.5 hp and 66.4 Nm of torque. By engaging peak torque early, this Triumph ADV can handle all challenging terrain. Its road appeal is enhanced by comfort, thanks to an adjustable seat height, a relaxed rider triangle, a low curb weight of 503 pounds and a total driving range of more than 370 miles.
10 cheap used adventure bikes under $5,000 that are perfect for off-road riding
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Honda Africa Twin DCT
Price: $15,599
The Honda Africa Twin has made a name for itself with its versatility and features a 1,083cc parallel-twin engine that is also shared with a cruiser bike and a banned cafe racer. It produces 100 horsepower and 82 pound-feet of torque, commendable numbers for an ADV that weighs 535 pounds.
A smart and adjustable suspension, knobby dual-purpose tires and 9.8 inches of ground clearance ensure it excels at off-roading. The standout feature of this Honda, however, is the six-speed automatic transmission, which takes driving pleasure to a whole new level.
BMW F900GS
Price: $14,275
While the BMW R 1300 GS is worthy of all the praise and notoriety, the F 900 GS is the underdog that rarely gets the recognition it deserves. It is an adventure bike designed to strike a perfect balance between on-road and off-road capabilities. Its long riding position, slim design and sit-stand triangle.
This is accompanied by a robust suspension with 9.05 inches of travel at the front and 8.46 inches at the rear. Under the skin lies a versatile 895 cc parallel twin engine that produces 105 hp and 68.6 Nm of torque. This engine can also be found on the F 900 XR sports tourer and the F 900 R streetfighter.
Aprilia Tuareg 660
Price: $12,499
This is a lesser-regarded arch-rival to the Yamaha Tenere 700, and that speaks volumes about what this Aprilia is capable of. The Tuareg 660 is an all-rounder, a rally bike-inspired do-it-all ADV with serious long-travel suspension, 9.5 inches of ground clearance and knobby dual-purpose tires.
The 659cc parallel-twin engine is a modified version of the same mill that powers the RS 660 sports bike. It produces 80 horsepower and 51.6 pound-feet of torque, with torque substantial and strong in the mid-range, allowing the Tuareg to rally effortlessly, even on challenging terrain.
Yamaha Tenere 700
Price: $10,999
This adventure bike is known for its exceptional off-road capabilities, thanks to Yamaha’s innovative design and clever combination of hardware, which is designed to withstand significant abuse. Power comes from the popular CP2 parallel-twin engine, which is well-seasoned with 72.4 horsepower and 50.2 pound-feet of torque.
Despite having a commendable 9.4 inches of ground clearance, knobby dual-purpose tires and long-travel suspension, the Tenere 700 also excels on tarmac. The latest update also brings some much-needed tech to help it take on its rivals and get more bang for your buck.
Here are the cheapest adventure touring bikes from all the popular brands
There’s an adventure touring bike to suit every budget and purpose, and these are the most affordable of all the leading manufacturers
KTM 390 Adventure R
Price: $6,999
The latest generation of KTM’s popular entry-level adventure range has put its best foot forward. With a turbocharged 399cc single-cylinder engine, the 390 Adventure R produces 44 horsepower and 28.7 pound-feet of torque. This engine, which is also used in the track-ready KTM RC 390, has been tuned to make the Adventure R feel at home on unpaved terrain.
This is further enhanced by the adjustable suspension, which offers more than 9 inches of travel at both ends. Other cool tech features like switchable ABS, traction control, a quickshifter and riding modes help maintain this unmanageable KTM composed on the asphalt.
CFMoto Capricorn 450
Price: $6,499
CFMoto Ibex 450 is one of the most affordable adventure bikes available today. It is powered by a versatile 449cc parallel twin engine that produces 44bhp and 32.5Nm of torque. It provides enough muscle for asphalt work and also helps the Ibex 450 fly on the trails.
The do-it-all appeal is further enhanced by features such as fully adjustable suspension, adjustable seat height, fairly high ground clearance and a relaxed rider triangle. That aside, the MSRP puts the company in a strong position among its European and Japanese rivals.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
Price: $5,999
This is the most affordable ADV that excels in the do-it-all category. The 450 maintains and enhances Royal Enfield’s ‘Himalayan’ heritage, gliding over challenging trails thanks to a capable long-travel suspension. The chassis is also designed to take a beating.
The 452cc single-cylinder engine is all-new and produces 40 horsepower and 29.5 pound-feet of torque. This is also Royal Enfield’s first-ever liquid-cooled mill with a speed of over 8000 rpm. Notable technological features include switchable ABS, two driving modes, a by-wire accelerator pedal and a fantastic round TFT display.
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