The Big ADV market grows from strength to strength but not necessarily due to any perceived or realised off road capability. The emphasis on the open road adventure appears to be the new mantra as the smaller cc variants being favoured for off road antics for the everyday rider.
However if we’re looking at an adventure motorcycle to be used as an all around tourer with some mild adventures onto some dirt trails and keep you comfortable all day in the saddle, then the following list of bikes are the ones you should be looking at…but certainly not exclusively.
Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak – If you’re looking for awesome performance, a sport bike pull in an upright riding position with some pedigree on some trails, then the Ducati could be the bike…albeit you pay for the privilege, the delivery will not fail to impress and most likely keep you glued to the tarmac instead of venturing off road.
Triumph Tiger 1200 – The newly launched 1200 range in the GT or Rally variants are bringing Triumph back to the table after many had assumed they had abandoned the big ADV market after they released the 900. Highly impressive both on the road and off, the British manufacturer may offer the best overall value for money and usability.
Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin – When this bike was launched it immediately impressed and perhaps one of the better offroad capable bike with power delivery that gives confidence to remain in the saddle for the long haul. Competitively priced, usable, will get nods of approval and the usual Honda robustness are a big plus for this bike.
BMW R 1250 Adventure – You really cannot ignore the excellence of the BMW and the variations on the theme are simply impressive. The updated appearance and TFT screens in 2021 make it a joy to ride. This is a big motorcycle for the big open road, mule carrying traits and rock solid build quality too. There is a reason these bikes are so popular albeit the engine gets some disapproval from as as being old tech, but just because in has many miles…don’t rule out the tried and tested. If you’re looking for a big ADV that will perform on the grand tour, then you could do a lot worse that this beast.
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S – Monster performing motorcycle. Delivers on the road and on the dirt but remember these are big, heavy and stable bikes making it ideal for the long adventure haul. The engine performs brilliantly and the modern touches make this an all around bike for those wanting to take to the road or trail with individuality and capability.
Husqvarna Norden 901 – The recently launched Norden is the bike that has the least curb appeal in the beauty department but more than makes up for it in sheer rugged no nonsense capability. Husqvarna have produced a mighty gem here and well worth the consideration for the grand adventure and those wishing to get out off the beaten track.
However if you’re looking for an ADV that is less about the name and reputation and more about does it do what it is intended for then the following examples could be just what you’re after. They are all capable, fairly priced and great alternatives for the tour and some limited trails too.
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE – Great ride especially for the road tour.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Tour – Great capability and competitively priced.
Moto Guzzi V85TT – Italian, Individual and slightly more manageable. Not as physically big as the others but nonetheless a great option for the tour and trails.
Harley-Davidson Pan America Special – Many were surprised at how good the American manufacturer delivered with the Pan America. It is both capable and ideal for those long roads and adventures. It has become the biggest selling ADV in North America unsurprisingly and whilst it has some traits that may not make it idea in super technical off road environments, especially with the adaptive rider height, it is a perfect motorcycle to head out on the long tour, loaded up and its price point makes it one of the best value for money bikes in the market.
