From the Classifieds: Six budget adventure bikes

Looking for budget adventure bike for your post-COVID trip? Look no further

Adventure motorcyclists are spoilt for choice these days, with a wide range of high-tech dual-sport machines available for most budgets, destinations and abilities.

While we all drool over the KTM 790 Adventure Rs, Yamaha Tenere 700s, and BMW R 1250GSs of the world, sometimes our budget will only allow for a cheapie. So if you want to hit the lonesome trail, but can’t afford the latest whiz-bang mothership, check out some of the budget listings on bikesales.

Of course, you should always verify the condition of the bike and undertake an inspection if possible. You can also use RedBook Inspect's new pre-purchase inspection service. And don't for get to follow all COVID-19 and social distancing protocols. Check out our guide to second-hand buying during COVID-19 for more info.

We've listed six budget adventure bikes currently for sale on bikesales. These bikes might not be the latest and greatest, and they could possibly throw you the odd mechanical curveball, but isn’t that all part of the fun? So don’t wait – snap one up and start planning your epic post-COVID adventure ride.

2009 Suzuki V-Strom 650

Location: Redfern, NSW 2016
Asking price: $5500
Odometer: 55,000km
Running: Yes
Registered: Yes
Roadworthy certificate: Yes

This first-generation Suzuki V-Strom 650 is listed for a cool $5500, with just 55,000km on the odometer. Since its introduction in 2004, the V-Strom 650 has been a popular and affordable mid-capacity dual-sporter, with a slight bias towards tarmac. It is powered by a liquid-cooled V-twin and features an upright riding position for long-distance touring. This particular example comes with plenty of after-market accessories including pannier racks, a bash plate, and heated grips. The owner is also offering 2 Oneal helmets and a cover with the bike. It is located in Redfern, NSW.

2008 Kawasaki KLR650

Location: Western Australia
Asking price: $5490
Odometer: 14,440km
Running: Yes
Registered: Unknown
Roadworthy certificate: Unknown

The Kawasaki KLR650 is also a popular choice for adventure riders on a budget. The KLR650 was introduced way back in 1987, featuring a 651cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. It remain largely unchanged until 2008, when Kawasaki gave it a complete overhaul. The KLR650 was discontinued in 2018, but second-hand units are still sought after for long-distance touring. This example is listed as a 2007 KLR650, but it is a 2008 model, complete with the redesigned fairing, instrument panel and styling. It is price at $5490 with 14400km on the clock, and is located in Western Australia.

2011 Yamaha Tenere XT660Z

Location: New South Wales
Asking price: $6990
Odometer: 63,000km
Running: Yes
Registered: Yes
Roadworthy certificate: Unknown

The new Yamaha Tenere 700 has received critical acclaim, but its predecessor, the hard-working Tenere XT660Z, built a loyal fan base all of its own. It made its first appearance in 2008 and featured a version of the 660cc single-cylinder engine used in various Yamaha, Jawa and Aprilia models. The XT660Z was well received and was praised for its fuel economy, strong rear sub frame and adventure friendly fairing and ergonomics. This particular unit is located in New South Wales and is listed for $6690 with 63,000km on the odometer. It comes with a wide variety of aftermarket equipment.

2004 KTM 640 Adventure

Location: Largs Bay SA 5016
Asking price: $4999
Odometer: 48,500km
Running: Yes
Registered: No
Roadworthy certificate: Yes

When KTM first won Dakar in 2001, it was the start of a new era for the Austrian manufacturer. Today, KTM is one of the most popular adventure motorcycle brands, having produced many classic dual-sport machines over the years. The KTM 640 Adventure debuted in 1998 and featured a 620cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It had 21- and 18-inch wheels and a large fuel tank as standard. Its only major update came in 2004, with twin front brake discs, a low front fender, and the classic orange paint scheme added. Those changes can be seen in this particular example, which is listed for just $4999, with 40,000km on the clock. It features some aftermarket equipment and is located in South Australia.

2003 BMW R 1150 GS

Location: Bruce, Hackett ACT 2602
Asking price: $6450
Odometer: 128,372km
Running: Yes
Registered: No (will be sold with 3 months ACT rego)
Roadworthy certificate: Yes

What Dakar did for KTM, Long Way Round did for BMW. The round-the-world trip by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman on a pair of BMW R 1150 GS’s inspired a whole generation of mid-life crises around the world. The R 1150 GS was introduced in 1999 and featured a 1130cc air/oil cooled boxer engine. It was more powerful than its predecessor, the R 1100 GS, and added a new six-speed gearbox. In 2002 it was equipped with ABS and twin spark plugs on each cylinder. It was replaced by the R 1200 GS in 2004. This particular unit is listed for $6450 and has 128,372km on the odometer. It’s located in Canberra.

1983 Honda XL600R

Location: Belrose, NSW 2085
Asking price: $5950
Odometer: 63,317km
Running: Yes
Registered: Yes
Roadworthy certificate: Yes

The Honda XL600 was introduced in 1983 and was produced until 2000. It was powered by a 589cc air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine and driven by a 5-speed transmission. It went through a number of updates in its lifespan and, thanks to its enduro capabilities, it became popular with off-road focused adventure riders. This 1983 Honda XL600R is the oldest bike on this list and is the first itinerant of the model. It is listed for $5950 and has 63,317km the clock. The owner says the bike is ‘ultra-reliable’ and in its original condition and ready to ride, making it a great choice for collectors. The owner has it set up specifically for long-distance touring. It is located in NSW.