10 used adventure bikes that will continue to redefine exploration in 2025

Adventure bikes are actually a relatively new type of motorcycle. The concept was introduced way back in the 80s, but really started to catch on in the 00s. But recently the segment has exploded as more and more motorcyclists want to get out and explore. With the increasing demand for these types of motorcycles, manufacturers have launched one impressive motorcycle after another.

The one thing that has always been up for debate is where the balance between travel features and weight savings really lies. As you add features, the weight increases, and as the weight increases, the off-road potential decreases. Only the individual rider will be able to decide which one he prefers, but one thing is certain: there is now an affordable used ADV for everyone.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure from 2010

Price range: $6,000 – $8,000

The most surprising thing about the old R 1200 GS is its weight. Compared to newer bikes with more features, it is significantly lighter. Liquid cooling also added some weight to the newer bikes, and quite a bit of horsepower. But for those willing to take care of basic maintenance themselves, this is a much easier bike to work on and, by most accounts, a more durable bike too.

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2013 KTM 990 Adventure

Price range: $7,000 – $9,000

Karolis Kavolel via Shutterstock

KTM has been in the news for all the wrong reasons lately, but the one thing that has never let the brand down is the LC8 V-twin. Although the BMW was always the superior touring bike, the 990 Adventure was always the better off-road bike. For its weight and size it’s a very capable machine, but it’s still a heavy bike without electronic safety nets, so it really needs an experienced hand at the helm.

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Husqvarna TR650 Terra from 2014

Price range: $3,000 – $5,000

Husqvarna

In many ways this is a bit of a wildcard. While very capable, it’s a motorcycle with a complicated history and certainly no dealer support. The motorcycle uses an old Rotax engine, which was also found in the BMW F 650 GS. So parts shouldn’t be a big problem, just explaining why you’re buying BMW parts for your Husqvarna can get tiring. That strange quirk makes it a bargain today.

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2017 KTM 1090 Adventure R

Price range: $8,000 – $10,000

KTM, Chytka M.

Usually it’s nice to save the best for last, but in our opinion this has to be the best used ADV money can buy right now. It has just enough electronics to save you when you need it, without being intrusive or overly complicated. In an effort to differentiate this from the higher spec 1190, the LC8 is actually in mild condition here, which is all the better as 125bhp is already plenty for what is still a relatively light ADV.

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2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled

Price range: $5,000 – $7,000

Ducati

The Scrambler range has done what the original Monster once did for the iconic Italian brand, and that is offer enthusiasts something more attainable. For the most part, all bikes are an exercise in retro design, but for a brief moment, Ducati actually made a Scrambler that could actually scramble. When new the Desert Sled was quite expensive compared to the other bikes in the range, but it was well worth the premium as it was and still is a capable ADV. Nowadays it’s a bit of a bargain.

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2021 Yamaha Tenere 700

Price range: $8,000 – $10,000

The original Tenere represents just the right bike at just the right time. For the first few years, Yamaha struggled to meet demand, and that speaks volumes about its popularity. Since then, we’ve become a little numb to how good it was when it came out, thanks to the many great options we now have at our disposal. Today, prices are finally starting to normalize, but its value still remains remarkably well preserved.

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Aprilia Tuareg 660 from 2022

Price range: $6,000 – $8,000

Aprilia

Of all manufacturers, Aprilia perhaps came up with the most comparable alternative to the impressive Tenere. If anything, the Tuareg has raised the bar by adding a few features without compromising weight. Like most Italian products it has been hit considerably harder by depreciation, and we believe this is the best used middleweight ADV you can buy right now.

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2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure

Price range: $8,000 – $10,000

Suzuki

Suzuki was a little late to the middleweight ADV party, and once the V-Strom 800DE arrived it was already a bit behind the fast-moving competition. We believe that this actually makes the most sense in this Adventure version. Essentially, it’s still a great travel companion and it certainly won’t let you down. Getting this turnkey ADV for under $10,000 is simply a great value.

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2023 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure ABS

Price range: $4,000 – $6,000

Kawasaki

Kawasaki surprised everyone when the venerable KLR got an update, and with that update, fuel injection and this Adventure trim. It’s an unapologetic stopgap, but knowing full well that most buyers use this dual-sport as an ADV, Kawasaki ultimately gave us a great exploration tool for a bargain price. It’s even cheaper on the used market. Just be willing to embrace a slower pace.

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2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan

Price range: $2,000 – $4,000

Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield organizes tours that go through the most rugged terrain in Nepal and this is of course the bike of choice. To be honest, it makes the aforementioned KLR look pretty fast in comparison, but ultimately it does reach highway speed. It’s the real mule of the motorcycle world and proves you don’t need an expensive ADV to get out and explore the wilderness.

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