4 Small AFFORDABLE Adventure Bikes you probably ignored but SHOULDN'T have!

[@stevencarter7031]

I ride a 2018 cb500x..it does everything, touring 1 or 2 up, commuting, back roads and fire roads...wet or dry...it goes every where...love it...

[@aviduke]

I had cb500x for 30,000 miles. I agree with you

[@jameslast3192]

I’m thinking of getting one as my first bike. I’m in NZ in the country with heaps of forestry and metal roads. It seems to have everything and I keep coming back to it. I’d better get my arse in gear and get that provisional done!

[@leeinwis]

Trying to find one..aint easy , for now I have a 250L rally

[@krystianzasko6934]

I've 2018 cb500x as my first bike

[@StansE250]

Phenomenal powerplant. Parallel 270° Twin is about as Good as it gets!

[@luvnotvideos]

I have a Versys X300 and 11,000+ miles later can attest to how much fun it is to ride. After swapping out the 14t front sprocket for a 15t sprocket, it will keep up with interstate traffic (65 to 80 MPH depending on the road) without complaint and still have grunt to pass if needed. And since it's a relatively light bike, I can pick it up if we decide to take an unexpected dirt nap on a trail - important since I'm a 5'4" woman.

[@GS-uy4xo]

Great to hear the height - I’m 5’5” and was a little concerned about it - good advice on adding a tooth, did it require a new chain?

[@indee105]

@@GS-uy4xo No you can keep the same standard chain.

[@GS-uy4xo]

@@indee105 Thanks - good to know.

[@jeffwilliam7500]

It's a twin cylinder?

[@tomcooney183]

I really like the look of the 250SX, good looking, comfortable, big fuel range, light weight, cheap plus its a suzuki so should last forever

[@OnThrottle]

“More bikes equals more better.” Truer words have never been said.

[@MartialGandhi]

X300 owner here. Its a great bike, comes pretty close to being that unicorn

[@MikMech]

2:55 The lower exhaust also allows for decent panniers. (Edit) The more I look at the Suzuki, the more sense it makes. Standard Forks - No Chrome getting dragged against rocks and drowned in creeks. Super Low seat height with removable pillion pad - can comfortably move back on the seat for sand riding. 6 speed box - That's a win. LED Lighting - Check 2.78lt per 100km fuel economy. : ) 3 Year Warranty $6,500 Ride Away (12 months Rego) Comes in a funky Orange. Sign me up!!

[@Aniketgdm]

Not sure about low height 😅 as a 5'4" myself. But yeah bike is so good. I bought it just at a single glance literally.

[@DmacDomage]

I wonder if many riders would pass on a 250cc bike these days given you can get a LAMS approved 650cc bike. I'm on a litre bike now but sometimes miss my old Honda Spada. There's nothing quite like putting smaller bikes through their paces to put a smile on your dial.

[@MikMech]

@@DmacDomage I agree. Fun comes from small CC, Adrenalin comes from large CC. My adrenalin days are almost over..

[@fluffylittlebear]

@@MikMech Depends what you're looking for. If you like trail riding in 1st, you're definitely going to notice the lack of low-end torque. Probably gonna notice it if you want to cruise on the highway at 75 loaded with gear, or if you're a heavier rider. It's a great bike I agree, but no matter which 250 you buy, it's still a 250. It's going to have a few major weak points that only more displacement can make up for.

[@trd4d]

I am so happy with my 2023 versys 300. Been riding for 50 years, and this is my favorite for my current riding. I will never put more miles on something like i did my CB750K, but i was riding the freeways of California when i had that. I did love that bike.

[@chrisdavisunofficial]

I rode a friend's Africa Twin in the US and rented a CB500X in Thailand earlier this month and you're dead on with that 90% comparison. It is a great bike at a great price. All that said, I'll stick with the T7.

[@bikesbabes4721]

Im like you, cheating on my T7 with all kinds of strays, and as much as I like many of them the T7 retains my vote. Imagine a 270degree Crank on a 500 CC bike with T7 Styling, lower weight and cheaper...

[@mickstafford456]

The 250 V Strom is incredibly affordable. Here in the Philippines it's about 80k pesos cheaper than the Scram 411 (about 2.2k AUD). Suzuki also have a much better dealership network than RE, meaning that you are more likely to be able to find one.

[@ajaxsid9034]

But it doesn't make Suzuki a greater bike. It's decent bike for highway, roadway highspeed touring. But Off road capabilities isn't good. They have given a sports bike engine with less low end torque. Even the foot pegs ain't that good for saddling. I have ridden both, trust me RE is miles ahead. If you have an option I suggest you to go with RE Himalayan. It's scram but longer suspension travel with a wind screen.

[@mickstafford456]

@@ajaxsid9034 Most of my riding is on the road, although some of the roads aren't wonderful. If I wanted to ride off road, and too put the prices into perspective. For the price of the Scram I could could buy the Suzuki and a Honda XR150. The Himalayan is 40k pesos more expensive than the scram. I like RE, but they are not a cheap bike here in the Philippines.

[@waynewalker3064]

How did you go finding neutral. I have bought a 250 SX a month th ago and find the gear selection needing a very positive action and finding neutral is almost impossible I forgot to add I am also in the Philippines, Panglao

[@mickstafford456]

I ended up getting a Svartpilen 200 in the end, as they had a 30k peso off the list price offer at my local dealers. @@waynewalker3064

[@Aniketgdm]

Proud vstrom 250 owner. Never been so happy as it having my very first bike. It is just perfect.

[@george4781]

What's your experience. I'm gonna buy one soon next month

[@Aniketgdm]

@@george4781 it’s pretty neat. It does everything it is supposed to.

[@nicky_vibe]

5000+ km on a Scram 411 so far. Long rides only. Last trip was 1100+ km to and fro with four stops. Never felt like I was lacking power. Good roads, bad roads, it just kept going asking for more. I was tired at a point of time but the Scram wasn't.

[@papatorr3669]

I'm genuinely glad for all the riders that can afford $6,000 - $11,000 "AFFORDABLE" ADV bikes! They keep the manufacturers in business and future used models in the pipeline. But for many, and for now, there is a VERY long list of used dual purpose bikes between $2,000 - $4,000 bikes that fill the smaller ADV category for everything but a race! So many choices, so little time and garage space. I plan to cut it down, but I find myself with a $1,650 TW200, a $2,000 XT225, a $1,850 DR650, and a $2,700 F650GS DAKAR bike!

[@GratefulEd907]

I’d get the dr650. I had an xt225 and felt kinda goofy getting on it because it was too small. I sold it for $1,500 and bought an XR650L with that same $1,500 the same day

[@basedpatriotLT]

Affordable is always used in a context with other things in that category. Not that affirdable = every person cam afford that thing.

[@papatorr3669]

My update is that I picked up a project DR 350 that I can customize to my 5'3 frame. I'm going to sell the DR650 because it's a 1995 and can't be lowered like the 1996 and newer can be. And I'm going to sell the DAKAR because I'm not going to make a trip from Patagonia to Alaska on a motorcycle. I'm going to trailer or use a hitch carrier and ride trails on a bike I can more easily pick up from a dirt nap wherever I go. The DR350 may replace my DR650 and my XT225. But nuthin's gonna replace my TW200!

[@GratefulEd907]

@@papatorr3669 I’m in Alaska. A lot of the state it’s legal to ride on trails next to the roads. It’s how a lot of people get around. Ya might see dirt bikes, ATVs, side by sides, a jeep, some times it’s kids playing sometimes it’s adults going to the store. Maybe they drive it for fun or maybe they lost their license for a DUI ya never know? LOL I love that I can go from cruising down the street to the trail and back to the road though it’s awesome.

[@carlarthur4442]

Sounds like a better plan to me , Brother , especially with the price of petrol these days 😊

[@Liberty4Ever]

I have a G310GS and love it for the old man adventure riding I do, mostly back roads and no hardcore off road, but I appreciated this video. I sent the link to a friend who is in the market and was disappointed that he couldn't write a check to the local Honda dealer for a CRF300L Rally.

[@GLHS592]

In my search for an entry level adventure bike, I decided the Kawasaki Versys-x 300 is the best bang for the buck. I bought a used 2018 model with 2600 miles and love it. Some people wish for a V-x 400, but I find the 296 cc engine to make good power. 250 cc to 300 cc is really ideal for a beginning motorcycle rider. I like the seating position and the big fuel tank. I only have three gripes about the bike. 1. It revs to 12,000 and that is hard to get used to coming from pushrod V8s. That also makes it loud. 2. It appears to be a pain to check and adjust the valves. You have to take a ton of parts off to check them and remove the cams to adjust the valves. 3. It comes with street oriented tires. I like all of these bikes you listed. That Suzuki V-Strom 250x looks like a cool bike (can't get it-USA) even with the weirdo styling, but it seems to me that it would have to be closer to 300 cc to complete with the Kawasaki V-x 300. I looked at the Himalayan, the Scram's brother, and loved the styling. If it had a 6 speed transmission to make it a better highway bike, I would have looked harder for one. The Honda CB500X is probably a better bike than the V-x 300, but it costs more. It also needs wire spoke wheels. I may look into upgrading to a CB500X in the future because I don't have Africa Twin money.

[@gantin100]

I would say if you also want to mount engine guards stay away from Kawasaki's engine guards, biggest pain the in ass to put on. The one big issue I've had with my 300 is the speedo being off by 5mph.

[@l.a.raustadt518]

Could not agree with you more only with me I like cast wheels and tubeless tires easy change I can do.

[@terryoleary8219]

The ninja 400 seems to offer more power, more torque, is lighter and gives better fuel economy compared to the ninja 300. This strongly suggests a Versys 400 X would be better in every way compared to the 300. I've given up on Kawasaki making a Versys 400 X.

[@gantin100]

@Terry O'Leary I doubt they'll make a 400, they just made a 250 version. They seem to be going in the lower cc direction

[@anthonysilvestri4946]

The CB500X is the clear and obvious choice! More power and much better looking than any bike in the class with the bulletproof Honda reliability baked in from the factory 🙂

[@xdx2653]

totally agree.i found this bike ok for my height(187cm)

[@Robert-t1p]

Suzuki 300 vstrom.kawasaki versy.

[@quintessentialtravel1966]

I've ridden my Versys X-300 from Cabo San Lucas, Mexico to Fairbanks, Alaska. It is a capable motorcycle.

[@ed.barker7069]

Wouldn't it be nice if Suzuki enlarged that V-Strom by 100cc and gave us a new DR350 style trail bike?

[@thomasd9237]

I used to race MX and I've raced cars but I always had a thing for what we called in the old days "Enduro Bikes" These new ones are pretty fancy in comparison, but the ability to do on & off road is where it's at. 👍👍

[@MichaelTodd-tq8dk]

As I understand it: Enduro... A dirt bike made street legal from the factory. Duel-sport... A road bike, adapter to do some dirt.

[@TassieT]

After many years of having bigger 750cc plus bikes I'm enjoying the move to downsize your comments about the 2022 CB500x are spot on, underrated cost effective versatile touring bike which I've covered 12K across Australia in 6 months + tomorrow I'll be picking up a Vstrom 250sx thank you Suzuki for producing a lighter sports crossover at an affordable price with a 3 year warranty 🙂

[@pieterbrink504]

Hi COS, I have a Vstrom 250 sx in Perth for you to test. Let me know if interested. I am very happy with the bike! Best fuel consumption - 41km/l, avg 36-38km/l

[@faisalarh]

Me too man, 39 KM/L on 1st 500 km odometer, still in the breaking engine period though.

[@hns01]

I have owned a CB500X and didn't like it much. I found it ok around town, but too small for touring. I now own a Suzuki V-Strom 650 and am extremely happy with it. I think the V-Strom actually fits your description of the CB500X (big bike for small bike money).

[@moreorlesdone1497]

The Vstrom is about $15,000 in Australia, which is definitely not small bike price.

[@TSense_]

Stromtroopers Unite! :) I got a 2022 V-Strom 650 last year after riding a Ninja 650 for my first couple years. I commute via motorcycle almost every day. For the price I paid I'd say the V-Strom 650 provides a great value and with further investment (tires, crash bars, etc.) it could be used in so many different ways compared to other daily driver-type street motorcycles. Plus Suzuki is made in Japan so parts are cheap and I know it's going to be solid so long as the maintenance schedule is followed.

[@thedriver8174]

@@moreorlesdone1497 In Canada the Vstrom is only $1,400 more in base version than the CB500X but it has the advantage of having variants with spoked wheels and luggage but that cost $13,000. So yeah not the same price category as the small affordable bikes.

[@RoadAndTrailNet]

@@thedriver8174 Correction: in Canada the 2023 DL650A lists for $10,699 + fees + taxes. The 2023 CB500X lists for $9290 which includes $899 in fees plus taxes on top. All the dealers that I checked are charging quite a bit more (non-negotiable) than $899 in fees for the CB500X, and many have already sold out of the bikes.

[@thedriver8174]

@@RoadAndTrailNet Thanks for the correction. I was just pointing out that the Vstrom is over the $10,000 threshold and weighs 40 pounds more which puts it in a different class. Middleweight vs Lightweight. I also love the Vstrom. In my opinion it is the best bang for the buck. The Vstrom is just not in the category discussed in this video.

[@mikecarr1484]

My 2001 Yamaha xt225 weighs only 240 lbs. Then I put a 4 gallon tank . I can go 400 miles between fill ups. That is an adventure bike.

[@pauldavies5541]

I’ve got a 2016 xt250 and a t7. The xt is the ultimate go anywhere machine.

[@AdventuringEden]

Owned a Himalayan, then CB500X and now a 310GS which for me sits in between the two. Better on road than the Himi and better off road than the CB, a real sweet spot for the UK and green lanes if you can only have one bike. The best thing is the low weight 👍

[@xdx2653]

but what about your height bro?i am 187cm tall and i found the gs310 a joke to me.that bike is for people under 172cm height for sure .my girlfriend is 176 and still dont fit her well

[@AgricUltra]

Loving my X-300. Perfect for a beginner ADV, especially with its light weight and spoked wheels. Revvy, but that can be fun too!

[@dracer35]

+1 Ripping my X-300 up a hill climb or out of a corner at 12,000 rpm is a ton of fun. And when I need it to go the distance, getting 60 mpg gives me plenty of range for the long trips. I love this bike after I built my own custom taller seat.

[@jeanpequignot80]

You can rev it without reaching deadly speeds, which is super fun!!

[@trd4d]

It's a great bike for someone who has been riding off road 50 years too.

[@rubenangelvarisco4233]

The Versys 300 is perfect for adventure. You missed Benelli TRK 251 which is excellent.

[@mt1885]

I wish Suzuki would build a Dual Sport DR350 again! Will they bring the VSTROM 250 to the USA ?

[@jimthompson717]

I've had smaller dual sport bikes:Honda XL, Yamaha, and my favorite; a DRZ. I now have a 2022 r1250gs, which I absolutely love. But I wouldn't ride it off road on anything worse than smooth gravel. Its big, tall (I'm 6'5"), fast and carries anything I choose to bring. It looks amazing. Starts conversations with men, women, friendly cops. It's magic.

[@Ichibuns]

I had a 2021 CB500X for about a year. I absolutely loved the bike. I found the exhaust note was a bit throatier than I was expecting from a smallish P-twin. The bars did vibrate an uncomfortable amount above 60 mph. I believed a 270 degree crank 750cc and a longer top gear would've made the bike absolutely perfect. Once the Transalp reaches the USA, I'll need to check it out. It looks like it might be my ideal bike.

[@nobleharbor265]

It’s here (Indiana). Sat on it at the dealer. Seating is flat footing with a 29 inch inseam. I’m light (135 lbs) so I admit the Transalp is up there in weight, but unbelievably, the Transalp feels better and lighter than the 300 Rally. That said, I compared it to a 300 Rally right there… hard to believe, but the 300 Rally was hard to stay on comfortably, and didn’t come near to flat footing, more like tippy toes. I realize you could lower it, but there goes the ground clearance. The 300 Rally has better pipe mounting (higher) than the Transalp though, and it weighs way less. What was Honda thinking when they routed the pipes below the frame? Hardly a good place for an adventure bike. The color of the Transalp is lots stealthier than the bright red 300 Rally. If that bike had a reasonable seat and good color options (mini-Trsnsalp) it would be ideal. Haven’t ridden either of them yet, so things could change.

[@natekerx85]

500x is a great bike. I had a 2014 and it ignited my love for offroad riding. Three years later I have a dual sport and a 250 2 stroke but I still think about that 500. Particularly awesome with the rally raid wheels and suspension

[@jed4265]

@AVI8ER you almost just described the NC700X 😄. Look into it! Pretty affordable. I just got one. The only quirk is its funny engine characteristics (6500 max rpm and nice low end torque).

[@jed4265]

But basically, the NC is soo much more at home on the highways. Did a 1200 mile highway trip a week after I got it, hours at 85-95mph, it was so smooth and confident.

[@arbindasingh2066]

I have a v-strom 250 SX and it has the best engine in 250 segment and this sports tourer bike won't disappoint you during your long ride✌️✌️✌️✌️I have even rode Himalayan, dominor 400, pulsar 220, ktm adv 390 and compare to all this bikes SUZUKI V-STROM 250 SX has the best engine than the others✌️✌️✌️🙏🙏🙏

[@BitBetr1957]

KTM 390 Adventure deserves a mention in this line up. I think it's on par with the Honda CB500, though I'll admit that KTM reliability doesn't measure up to Honda in the long run.

[@HartyBiker]

I don't think the 390 counts as underrated though

[@terrymcv7064]

I don't think the KTM is considered Affordable like the narrator was trying to imply for the bikes he mentioned.

[@anthonyburke5656]

About 45 years ago I had a second hand Yamaha 250 cc, it had a lever on the gear box, if you were off road (it was an off rad bike) and wanted extra low and strong, you stopped and swung the lever, then ALL gears reduced and you could go up a mountain in top, not going faster than 20 km/hr!

[@skaraborgcraft]

Always thought the old DL250 Vstrom was a good little bike, but this looks even better. Not sure it will make it to Europe where small bikes have fallen behind. It has a better power-weight ratio than my old XL250, and better than 6 volt lighting.

[@chrishart8548]

Anything was better than 6v lighting. I think the brake light was brighter than the headlight.

[@soilsmanadv6673]

I think the ktm 390 for 2023 is very under rated.. It gives enough room for you to upgrade the rear suspension.

[@mickstafford456]

The 390 is a very nice bike. But a fair bit more money than the Scram 411, and seriously more money than the Suzuki. Honestly, in the local market, if I wanted the performance of the KTM ADV, I'd but the Dominar 400 instead. Latest model is more ADV, touring, setup than the old model, and about 150k pesos cheaper ! More than enough for tyre and suspension upgrades, with money to spare.

[@powersports4life594]

390 just does not allow for standing off-road. Almost mandatory to sit down on the 390 to do most riding, unfortunately. Good bike otherwise, though!

[@moreorlesdone1497]

The downside of the 390 seems to be quality. I can’t think of any bike that has more KZbin clips on quality issues.

[@katherinesilvas5735]

Agree. Top motor. Poor ADV ergonomics. You sit on top of it rather than in it.

[@andrewgills1306]

Nice to see the VStrom 250 on your video. I bought one and love it! A fun ride. Cheap. Lightweight. One of the most fun bikes I’ve ridden in ages

[@emmanuelsehlabele1396]

I'm thinking of getting one, so u suggest or yr opinion is tht is best I will enjoy it???

[@tedosmond413]

@@emmanuelsehlabele1396 I bought one a year ago. My first bike. I really like it. Looks good, runs well, easy to ride. I ride it pretty much everyday for errands and on weekends longer rides. Also comes with handguards, luggage rack, engine guard, ubs charger

[@unclebadger597]

Why does everyone make such a big deal about spoked wheels? How many times have you bent a rim vs how many times have you gotten a flat? I ride every single day, and I'm good for 1 or 2 flats per year. And I've done all kinds of off road riding and I've NEVER bent a rim. Spokes can "get bent" 😄

[@Liberty4Ever]

I have a G310GS with alloy rims and thought the same thing. I was talking to another baby GS rider on Saturday and he told me that his brother hit a pot hole at 60 MPH on his G310GS and bent the rim, causing a flat. He had to buy a used rim on eBay to fix it. I don't mind alloy rims for lower cost and lower weight. I wouldn't have a bike that uses tubes in the tires.

[@IrnMaiden304]

Yeah, but if you bend a spoked rim, as long as the tube is fine you won't have to worry about a tire that won't hold air. A tubeless rim if bent or cracked too much the tire might not seal right and then your always leaking air or worse, won't hold any, are you / can you carry a spare tubeless rim ? Perhaps. There is definitely a trade off, and spoked wheels are often but not always a steel rim as opposed to a full aluminum wheel and stronger, plus you can put a rim lock in and run your tires at a lower psi to get more off-road traction more than a tubeless rim, without spinning the tube inside the wheel and getting a flat that way.

[@SilentZephyrs]

Riding a Yamaha MT125, not an adv bike by any means but stupidly ramped off the side of a soft bank corner going about 40mph round a bend in low visibility fog, launched a good 2-3 meters away from the road onto grassy plains and landed with a big clunk. No damage to rims or tyres or suspension, hurt my ass but got a few claps by some passers by who thought I was trying to take it off road hahaha. So if my bike can survive it, just about any other bike should be able too aswell, unless it's got shitty suspension

[@suicidenotebeats]

i got you but having spoke in adv bikes much better when come to go extreme offroad . i ride tereno allow one and spoked both and heat spred is less in spoked high in allow

[@jamesadams2334]

They are heavy.

[@Grovreicraynth]

To be honest, the CB500x is a good value for money bike, but I think you can get a better option at that price point. I had one and I sold it after a year. It doesn't go as fast for a 471cc bike. The brakes aren't as capable too, so if you're planning to go on an adventure and load it up heavy, the brakes will leave you wanting. From this list, the Vstrom is the strongest bet. That's my take though. If you want, you can mod a mid displacement scrambler to serve as your touring bike. I have the Svartpilen 401 and it doesn't have the windscreen but the single is light, there's a tank rack, and I can pack a compact load on the rear.

[@JMsurYT]

This video has been in my "watch later" playlist for months. I finally watched it and you sir earned a like and a subscribe. Genuinely great video, with stupid humour just as I like it. I'm sold.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks mate, welcome aboard 👍

[@AR-bm2xg]

Spot on list, I own the VStrom SX 250, It is tough, built to last and might even prove to be "unbreakable" in the coming years. It has high quality components like DID chains, Enkei rims. Aussie buyers don't even compare it to Scram. Here in India, Scram costs lesser than VStrom SX. But it was shocking to see it is about 2200 AUD costlier than VStrom SX. At that cost it is definitely NOT worth it. The Scram has run of the mill poor quality parts and it's sibling Himalayan is infamous for its cracking, poor quality frame. So, my humble advice for Aussie buyers is don't spend money on Scram, it is overpriced in your country.

[@jeffreystorer4966]

Good on you thanks

[@PrimoStracciatella]

I'm a Honda man. Had a CBR500R and a CRF250M supermoto. I'd get the unpretentious CB500F for trips and the CRF300L for adventure.

[@aatee5840]

We need the KTM490 , DR-Z 450 , KLR 500, kawi X-450, V-strom 450 , CRF500l , Triumph 500 scrambler, WR450F dualsport, 401 svartpilen .. . oh that was already done..

[@phantom2k858]

not everyone can afford them

[@JPspinFPV]

I was really hoping KTM would follow through on the 490, it's exactly the recipe I've wanted for years. In fact, I'd even prefer in Yamaha would do a T5. Give me 50hp, 300 miles range, 21x19 spoked wheels, and proper suspension.

[@court2379]

We need them to stop tuning them to be race bikes. Yeah they won't have as much power, but regular riders don't want 100 valve service intervals and 50hr oil changes.

[@broosewee]

CB500x is amazing! Love my bike!

[@shira_yone]

I'm glad the V-Strom 250SX is available at my place, I'm really considering it if I couldn't find some older more affordable dual sport.

[@vijayam1]

Finally someone sung itfor the V Strom 250 SX and first.. The bike is just a great little do it all one.. Not the best one, but a really great one..

[@Thelivewire64]

I want them all! But I'll settle for my new CB500X. I just ordered crash bars, radiator guard, kickstand footprint enlarger and paddock stand. It's done a whole 830Km. Taking it to Bairnsdale in a couple of weeks for 1000Km service.

[@gammash]

Suzuki V-Strom 250SX is my choice because I'm currently using the same oil cooling engine in my Suzuki gixxer 250 and I love it.

[@RacingRalphEVO]

Although big adventure bikes are misadvertised they at least have some purpose. Small adventure bikes on the other hand seem a little bit pointless to me. With big adventure bikes you get a highway/travel bike that is gravel road capable. But when sacrificing power/engine smoothness just get a dual sport bike and install an aftermarket windshield. It's lighter and actually off-road capable. I know the video mentions the price of the Honda CRF300 as an Issue but there are cheaper KLX variants around depending on the region.

[@GeezerWheels]

Another great vid, Barry!!! I've commented on your vids before (I'm the guy from SW Colorado). I'm on my 4th year of a Versys X300 and still love it. I've ridden some of the Trans America Trail on it (with Mitas E07 tires) and a number of rocky Jeep trails in Colorado and Utah. IF I don't outrun the limited suspension (not too fast for the conditions) it gets me to some amazing places. I have bottomed out the suspension twice, but I'm in my 70s and ride pretty conservatively. I usually ride a Husaberg FE390 off road and a Vstrom 650XT for trips, but the X300 is just fun, light and if I rally baby it, I get over 70 mpg on local county road - great commuter. Thanks for a great vid that will be useful for so many. (Our snow melted in the last 2 weeks (live at 7550 ft elevation, or 2301 meters) - had 12 feet, or 4 meters this year. Just the last two days have been rideable here. Keep up your great work!!! - Geezerwheels.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks mate and nice collection of bikes 👍

[@GeezerWheels]

@@chroniclesofsolid OOPS!!! After midnight here... just realized I addressed you as Barry... sorry!

[@WilliamShinal]

The Suzuki V-Strom is right up my alley. That's gonna be my first motorcycle for sure.

[@KurtGAndersen]

KTM 250 adv, Hero X-pulse 200, Voge 300 Rally or DS. Yamaha XTZ250 Tenere (south and cebtral America) Honda XRE300 and 190. So many models that are available only a few countries

[@being_happy_]

1. RE himalayan 450 (release this year) / scram 450 (release 2024) 2. Triumph Scrambler 400 (upcomming) 3. Ktm 250 adv 4. Suzuki 250 vstrom

[@LooxJJ]

For those serious Adventure riders out there, I highly recommend Suzuki V-Strom 650. Probably the best Around-The-World trip bike.

[@smiththers2]

As a cb500x owner I was genuinely surprised to see it at the top of your list. I do love my bike but I don't take advantage of what it's made for, so personally I think there's a better fitting bike somewhere out there for me.

[@geofferyrobertson6608]

hang onto it mate

[@domenik8339]

Yup, as a former 2016 cb500x owner I think the bike is perfectly rated, not over or under. The bike just never fit me right, didn't offroad particularly well nor did the highway too well either . . . biggest issue was that there is too much weight up high due to the huge gas tank, it makes for a sketchy, tippy feeling bike.

[@leeinwis]

Like ALL adventure bikes .@@domenik8339

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

Great list. I. hadn't seen the lil vstrom, not sure if we have that here in the states. As an owner of an Africa Twin and former owner of a CB500X, it truly does get you 90% of the way there, or if you are riding dirt and gravel, it gets 100% of the way there. The only real advantage the AT has on the CB comes on the Highway, not the backroads or trails.

[@SimonBrisbane]

Yeah, no. Not even close. The CB500X is not even 70% of the Transalp, let alone the AT.

[@sunhead-x]

@@SimonBrisbane please elaborate...because in my personal experience, it indeed is. for me, the AT´s only real advantage was on the highway. in every other scenario, there wasn´t anything I wasn´t able to do with the CBX, in some situations I wished I went with the CBX instead of the AT (weight!!)

[@MrBenHaynes]

Outstanding price point and breadth of ability with the new 250SX Strom. Watching closely. I tried putting my son on one at university, but we ended up with a near new Ninja 400 for $6500.

[@Fiatmannen1]

Got a versys 300. Absolutely great bike!

[@leeinwis]

I hated the sound of the engine roaring ,if you can call it that, even at idle .

[@newlife155]

@@leeinwis F1

[@donlowdon]

I have X300 & Honda NC750X DCT and I find myself riding the X300 more than the NC750. Don't get me wrong the NC is in my opinion a very under rated adventure bike but clearly more road biased and great for touring, it's biggest downside is weight at 235kg although that is carried low down so very unnoticeable when riding and with 77 MPG (UK) range is very useful. A bit more power would also not go amiss on the NC. So in summary the NC does most jobs fairly competently and the X300 does two jobs very well.

[@Rusty-Hinge]

A TW 225 with a 6 speed box (would use almost all standard Yam parts), a bigger tank and modern lighting would go be ace and cheap.

[@hazcat640]

Just bring back the DR350. We need a good 300 - 450 cc dual sport instead of these pretend 'adventure' bikes.

[@jaybob4627]

KLX 300

[@NorfolkTrailRiding]

The 300l is a good dual sport, and much lighter than the old xt660 or klr650s.

[@hazcat640]

@@jaybob4627 Probably best in class today.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Definitely in the 450cc-500cc range we need more reliable and affordable dual sports and adventure bikes sporting efi and 6 speed gear boxes. I have a KLX300 and it needs 100cc more umph.

[@leep814]

If only they would modernize the drz400 with FI and 6th gear

[@TRAVERSE_ADV]

CB500X wheelies just fine! My one did anyway. Easier to wheely than my CRF1000L. Whats wrong about honda service? Ive only bought used bikes and service them myself, so never had to deal with them.

[@burddog0792]

As a pure beginner who would love to get into riding, a CB500X DCT would be amazing. New 390 ADV is only $100 more MSRP here with a lighter weight and spoke wheels. That could possibly fit the bill with an auto clutch and quick shifter. 390 Enduro with 18/21 and sub frame fuel tank would be even more😗.

[@davgb7904]

Having added a downsized Scram to a long line of big bikes over many years, I now regret ignoring small capacity bikes all that time. It's an awesome bike, as most reviews and owners are reporting and I haven't had so much fun for a long time. I'm not an off road rider so I can't comment on that. However, your video shows it as perfectly capable. On the road, it's performance is more than adequate in most situations (as you explain), it's amazingly sure footed and a permanent smile. Friend has a CB500X as well as a much larger bike and also has nothing but praise for that. Where I live, I had to travel a fair distance to find any road capable of stretching my larger bikes and then still only used maybe a third of their power and performance. We migrate to larger machines as quickly as we can for what are often purely macho, ego reasons and forget the greater fun that a more challenging machine can provide.

[@jrsforest187]

A friend of mine when he was a teenager rode his Honda 90 from Michigan to a concert known as Woodstock and then rode back home. You don't need a big bike to go on a real adventure.

[@scottbrock884]

I love the ADV bikes, but... They all look kind cookie cutter in style. I wonder when the companies will build a "Senior" addition? You know, low enough for those of us with messed up hips and cant' quite swing our legs up and over. ;) Something like an old retro style DT/RT 360 Yamaha... Awesome video!

[@danieldorfman4408]

I had the cb500x (2021) for 2 years. road it more like a dual sport, and took it also to some technical trails. it can do a lot more then people think. just need to put some engine guards and a skid plate.

[@Andy_ATB]

People think they need massive Adventure bikes, thanks to Euan & Charlie, but most would be better off with a smaller, lighter bike. And too many bike journalists/You Tube channels are the same.....The only bit of off-road they see is the pub/ cafe car park.

[@andrewstambaugh240]

Indeed. And when they fried one bmw, his friend was having so much fun riding a much lighter 500cc bike.

[@LogicAndReason2025]

Years ago I bought a new 230 Suzuki quad because it was slightly less up front than the Honda 250, but paid dearly in replacement parts. Later I bought a beat-up used Honda 300x and never replaced anything beyond standard maintenance. Same with Honda cars.

[@chrisfs150]

Passed my test at 54yrs old and ive been enjoying my crf250rally no end but i do think im heading for a scram 411 or a cb500x next....

[@chrisfs150]

Scrub that triumph have released a 400 scrambler and royal enfield have launched a new 50hp himalayan and honda a new updated cb500x in the form of the nx500 So now what....?

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

What about the GS310 apparently more capable than most would think 🤔. I personally, have dropped my stable to two bike ( and one old favourite 😜- my Kawasaki 250 super Sherpa - only 7000kms and can put on histrionic rego 40 dollars per year that’s gold 👍, plus can still get all new parts as they still make the stockman new . So now I have a Moto Guzzi V85tt as my road and soft off road bike and my 300 rally for all the snotty stuff.

[@kaydars]

Our 2020 250 V-Strom is WAY better than our 650. Except for it's power, that is. I got 554km out of a 17L tank. I plan to get a smaller rear sprocket to improve the range of 1st gear, and to get more range out of it. It's a very capable bike, that can take an adult passenger on the highway.

[@posteroonie]

I'm glad that the Scram is minus all of the ADV "crap" stripped off the Himalayan that you thought was so great when it was included on the 250SX. Put kindly, hmm... If Kawasaki would turn their Z400 into an ADV, the lighter weight would beat the CB500X (and easily the Royal Enfield lineup) and the greater power would overcome my main objection to the Versys X-300. Hey Yamaha, when are you going to enter this segment?

[@Cabooseified]

Comfy seat for the X-300??? They must have given you the upgraded seat. The stock seat is as hard as a piece of wood. The 6- speed is way too much of a close ratio. At highway speeds here in the US I would be at 7K-8K rpm and the entire bike just buzzed. Heck the clutch adjustment nut, would always back out because of the vibration. I owned one for three years and put north of 5k miles on it. for the US market they need to put the 400cc engine in it with a taller 5th and 6th gear to really make it something to talk about. Other than that, I loved that bike and can agree, if you can get one cheap, go for it! A ton of fun and it truly was versatile. I rode it like a street bike and it loved it, rode it like an off-road bike with better tires, it loved it!

[@EagerMartialArts-cl7vd]

I’d love the Suzuki 250 but not sold in the states. Bastards.

[@stevies4525]

I have a 2015 CB500X. Unfortunately I only have the 17" front tire. Where I live in the States I never see them around, but people always ask me what it is.

[@keithquinn5624]

The versys 300 is the best of them all, smooth and can cruise at 120kph all day throw a windscreen on for full protection…very good offroad for what it is way better than ones in this list

[@Al.j.Vasquez]

I own the Versys X300, it is not 40hp but 38, and it will not get you 480km with the tank, bur rather about 430 if you ride until you're totally dry, i have done refills after 400km but I'm pushing my luck, also, it needs a 7th gear because the 6th gear still pulls strong and it doesn't feel like the bike is relaxed. I highly recommend to swap the 14T sprocket for a 15T, i also swapped the 46T rear sprocket for a 45T, now i can cruise at 70 mph on eco, but as i said, don't expect to get more than 430 km to the tank if you actually hit 70mph. Another recommendations: A mesh seat cover will improve comfort by a mile, an aftermarket windshield or extension is highly necessary, I'm 5'10 and the wind buffeted strong with the stock one, just don't buy the Puig windshield if you're gonna do off road, it's too thin and it will fall apart eventually, I've tried 3 of them and done many fastening tricks, nothing truly works to mitigate flex, it'll break. Having improved my bike for my taste, i can tell you it's waaay more comfortable and usable than stock, so if you kind of like it at stock, you'll love it when you swap the sprockets and get the seat cover.

[@BikeRiderReviews]

Not sure if you can get Benelli TRK 502x in your country but if you think the honda CB500X is a great bike, you really should check the Benelli out. In Italy, they are now the number 1 selling adventure bike, outselling the BMW GS. I'm located in the UK, I bought one in 2018 as a temporary bike while I waited for the 1100 Africa Twin to come out. I still have the Benelli today. 12000 miles on the clock, very reliable, looks great, fun to ride and reliable. I would take it over the CB500X any day of the week, which is a big statement as I am a die hard Honda man, through and through. Ride safe. 👍

[@DennisMerwood-xk8wp]

Xenophobic prejudice against Chinese products by ignorant bikers. Mostly by people using iphones!!!!

[@robbyclark6915]

Man, I walked into the local Honda/Indian/BMW/Polaris dealership down the street with every intention of buying my very first motorcycle! I wanted the CB500X or possibly a scout, wasn’t completely sure but I was there to figure it out and go home with my first motorcycle! Only problem is no one could be bothered to help the guy looking for his first bike? They were busy on their phones and the computer. I said I was looking for my first ever bike, and they said, there they are, without even looking up from their phones. 🤯 my wife and I were absolutely shocked!! We’ve bought several new cars before and you typically have to beat the salespeople off of you as soon as you walk in the door! Well, we went to the local Harley dealership and I had a black, 2020, iron 883 delivered to my house that night and a date with their MSF course! Been on Harleys ever since. That CB500X still looks mighty tempting to me though! Mad respect for Honda!

[@Diego-SocialSkills]

yes !! I have V strom 250 SX, and its amazing !!! I live in América (Central América) Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador we have Suzuki v Strom SX, and in South America too. Only US doesnt sell this amazing bike.

[@urbanadventurer5]

I own the Versys X-300 and really enjoy it. I keep testing out bigger and nicer ADV bikes, but then I ride mine and haven’t upgraded to anything else yet. I think I am just going to go ahead and deck this thing out for more off-road riding capability and enjoy it for a while. I will make up my mind later about what I need next if anything at all. To be fair though, I really do dig the base Husqvarna Norden 901 most out of all the bigger bikes.

[@willisbcteoh9840]

Solid review as usual. My pick on the lot is the Honda CB500X

[@bolo19213]

Hi. I test rode two small ADV just 4h ago. I rode each of these two bikes ca 20km half of way in a city, squeezing between cars, half on a highway. Honda CB500X was the first ridden bike and immediately after I sat on KTM390 ADV. In Poland, where I live, price of these bikes is very similar, ca. 7600 US $. What can I say? Honda is just a normal, plain, ordinary bike. No thrills when riding it, like it lacks of that "something". And its weight, you can feel it. Folding myself into corners on Honda needed more effort. Power delivery is linear on each gear. Seat is little lower, that is nice, but not to much. I am 1m72cm tall, rather short legs, 95kg. Then I sat on KTM... stiffer, more agile, greedy for changing directions, lanes. Corners felt more under control. And power delivery, very fun, over 4000RPM it gives you a noticeable kick which is fun. I noticed light vibrations on foot pegs when over 100km/h, but this is bearable. Then you have all this technical spec, switchable ABS for rear wheel, traction control, cornering ABS. KTM won me, and I ordered one :) KTM is a choice of a heart, Honda I would say is a choice of a mind :) Anyone fighting between these two just HAVE to test ride them and decide upon own preferences.

[@mjordan812]

I can not unsee the video clip of the dog when you said a "butt scraping" seat height. Having put almost 100K miles on a 2003 VStrom 1000, I'd get the 250 in a heartbeat - but, alas, I'm in the USofA. Maybe next year.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

You’re welcome 😆

[@lokeshdeshwal5288]

Any engine rebuild done on your 2003 vstorm??

[@mjordan812]

Had to think back over 20 years - the only failure that I had was the clutch slave cylinder that started leaking at about 85000 miles. @@lokeshdeshwal5288

[@samhill3496]

Great vid Dave. 33% off the top and I'll be Nuggets agent. Nothing from nothing leaves nothing. Man a spectacular glimpse of the mountain. Those rock slides are nothing to make light of for certain. It can be over before you know what happened. My first accident investigation was of similar circumstance. A big rock was pushed off a mine wall and it hit another on the bottom. A piece like a football hit the Supt. in the head knocking him 15 meters over the mountain. Great trip. I dream of making it as well. I'll see.

[@MotoEscapadas]

V Strom 250 SX is not ignored in Guatemala and Colombia, is the best selling small ADV in our history !!!! I own one to travel !!

[@ramishrambarran3998]

I am 68 with 51 years on motorcycles. Two years ago, I had a choice between the Indian-market Yamaha FZ25 (US$4,400) and the Colombian market Suzuki V-Strom 250.(US$6,200). I went for the Yamaha, because the dealer is more established and there are far more of their bikes on the roads, than Suzukis. But sometimes I have pangs of regrets about not buying the V-Strom 250 ! Trinidad & Tobago. West Indies.

[@user-sv9je7bz4j]

The unit Newton-meter is "Nm". "nm" is the abbreviation for nanometer or 1×10^-9 m.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Noted 👍

[@0menadds]

I like my BMW G310 land canoe maate ! It’s parked in place of the table. “ In the Pool Room “ Had to get rid of the pool table, my Castle has a German stead in the stable.

[@jimwojciechowski1808]

Like your video's, especially when giving specs in metric and U.S. Thanks!

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

I think the Suzuki DR650 needs more love. There are 300cc bikes that weigh more. Reliable, been around for ages so lots of support.

[@chrisdugal3002]

Cant believe how much a small bike has gone up . Got my 250L for $4990 new, ride away, 8 years ago and still going strong.

[@jasoncee666]

How many km are you up to on that mate?

[@kmwalsh84]

My 250l is a 2014 and has 26k miles

[@christopherpekel6096]

USD or aid?

[@LuMack]

You made me fall in love again with my big little Honda😂 subscribed.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Welcome aboard!

[@magicalcat2000]

Nice video - these smaller adventure bikes, I think, are so much more fun than the big, expensive bikes

[@MrDertien]

Great show, I winced for a sec when that 'how dare you phenomenon' showed her face...however the dog scratching his arse on the carpet was priceless...

[@KeepItSimpleSailor]

Test rode a very low km very clean 2022 CB500x today. Very tempted. Update: bought it, she’s run in now and I’m stoked. Very happy with my choice of the CB500x

[@sarge27271]

"90% of the way there for 50% of the cost".......That's a perfect example of the curve of diminishing returns. Great video. Cheers

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Cheers 👍

[@fluffylittlebear]

Definitely agree with the Honda CB500x. Those are amazing little bikes. The price makes it the best motorcycle on the market if you ask me.

[@stephenbushway901]

Great choices, Solid. How about the mighty Bush pig! I love mine. Doesn't look as modern or cool as the Kawi of Scram but it beats them bad on power to weight and still can be wrenched on anywhere by just about anyone. Too bad it needs a carb tweak to eliminate the off idle bog (too bad it's got a carb to begin with...) otherwise it'll be the most missed dinosaur of the mc world.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks Stephen, Saving that for a dual sport vid👍

[@314adv]

Great Video with a focus on PRICE to FUN ratio. Like the newbie I was in 2018 - I picked up a 310GS for $5,500 US and then tried to ride it like a KTM500EXC. While clearly not a Dual Sport bike - it was a great little adventure / gravel bike .... had it been a 410. At 6'2" (183cm) and 225lbs (102kg) - it was just a little underpowered for me. I have since ridden the KTM390 - and it is a much better ADV bike.

[@alastairday8451]

Excellent vid. I've downsized from huge ADV bikes and have now had 2 Honda NC750Xs, the latest of which is superb although no real off road ability. Depends what your definition of adventure is

[@jed4265]

I recently got an NC700X after learning on a CB500F (naked). The 700 is a solid bike. only a touch heavier than the 500X, much smoother on the highways, more storage. Feels a bit heavier but you get low-end torque to make up for it. It's got more of a cruiser engine though, so it's a funny bird.