Six reasons to buy an adventure motorcycle

Looking for a new motorcycle can be a tough gig, especially if you don’t specifically know what type you want. Do you want a road bike? Do you want a dirt bike? Do you want something fast? Or do you want something comfortable? Fortunately, there is a solution.

Once upon a time, sportsbikes were the aspirational choice for rev heads around the globe. But tastes have changed over years and riders are now looking for more versatility, practicality, and a way to see the world.

And that’s why adventure bikes are the new kings of the motorcycle jungle. They are like Swiss Army knives and there are options to suit a wide range of abilities, styles, and budgets. Still not convinced? Here are six reasons why an adventure bike should be your next purchase...

Adventure bikes are designed specifically to tackle a wide variety of terrain and conditions, often in remote locations. Nearly all adventure bikes are built with a ‘dual-sport’ philosophy, which means they can be ridden both on- and off-road. While some models, like the KTM 890 Adventure R, Aprilia Tuareg 660, and Yamaha Tenere 700, are more capable than others, most true adventure bikes are able to tackle off-road conditions better than the average road-going motorcycle. So, no matter where your adventure (or commute) takes you, you can be sure your bike will handle it.

While their size, weight, and height might suggest otherwise, adventure bikes are actually some of the safest machines on the market. Adventure bikes are usually very stable, easy to handle, and equipped with advanced suspension designed to soak up rough terrain like bumps, rocks, and potholes. Many of the premium offerings also have advanced ABS and traction control systems, as well as technology like ride modes, hill hold control and, increasingly, radar cruise control and blind spot detection.

This doesn’t apply to every brand or model, but many adventure bikes can offer great resale value depending on a few key factors. Well-maintained bikes with low kilometres and thorough service records can command strong second-hand prices, even at five to 10 years old. This is especially true for reputable brands and models. Check out listings for adventure bikes on bikesales.

Long distances are par for the course for adventure riders, so comfort is essential. Adventure bikes have upright riding positions, plenty of leg room, tall windshields, and comfy seats, so they are generally a lot less tiring than crouching over a sportsbike or stretching out on a cruiser. Many bikes also come standard with features like cruise control, heated grips, and heated seats, while electronic windshields, adjustable seat heights, and electronically adjustable suspension are also common.

By definition, adventure bikes are made to take riders to faraway places, usually over the course of multiple days. For that reason, adventure bikes are made ready to accommodate luggage and supplies. Most bikes come fitted with a luggage rack of some sort, while pannier racks are also often fitted as standard. Some bikes, like the new Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition, actually come with panniers or side bags as standard. Fully decked out, an adventure bike can accommodate two side panniers, a top box, and a tank bag, resulting in loads of storage capacity.

Going on an adventure is fun, but it is usually more fun with other people. And it is also fun to share your experiences and learnings with likeminded riders. As a result, an entire global community has been built around adventure motorcycling. There are loads of forums where riders share tips, tricks, and stories, while events around the world allow riders to congregate and share their passion. Once you own an adventure bike, you gain automatic membership to the universal adventure family.

This article was originally published on May 3, 2023.