6 Best Used [Multi-Cylinder] Adventure Bike Bargains Under $7,000 USD | Ride More, Spend Less

Don't want to drop $15-25k on a shiny new adventure bike? You don't have to, and maybe a used bike is a better option anyway! I have taken my 20+ years of experience of owning almost 30 different bikes to bring you this detailed buyers guide to what I think are the 6 best ADV bikes you can purchase for under $7,000 USD. I compare the bikes and tell you which one(s) might be best for your intended use. I give you details on the common issues with each bike to watch for.
Featured:
BMW F800GS
BMW R1200GS
Triumph Tiger 800XC
Yamaha Super Tenere
Suzuki V-Strom 650
KTM 950 and 990 Adventure
6 Best Dual Sports Under $4k [250-500cc]
• Top 6 Used Dual Sport ...
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[@philmay7834]

I just found your channel today, and have spent the last 3 hours watching some of your content. I can tell when someone believes in what they are doing, and that attitude shines through in your videos. Great comparisons, honest delivery and straight up facts make this relevant and timely. Good job!

[@BigRockMoto]

thank you it means a lot!

[@rjsalameh]

agree 100%

[@UncleWally3]

Excellent discussion; here’s my two cents worth: Been riding for fifty years, lucky enough to have ridden long and hard on many bikes including three new V-Stroms (cumulatively, used over 200 000 kilometers). I hope to always have a Wee in the garage. Based on my experience, the 650 is one of the most comfortable and dependable bikes with a ridiculously low cost of ownership. It’s far from state-of-the-art and it has a face only a mother could love, but the fully farkled “pre-owned” examples I see available make it my recommended sub $7000 purchase.

[@BigRockMoto]

Yep. Well said.

[@TwistedAnkles]

I’ve been riding 75 years. My favourite is a brontosaurus

[@RS-xh8rq]

@@TwistedAnkles that’s funny!!

[@archuk786]

What 650 bike? What is the make model of it?

[@archuk786]

Nevermind I saw it by watching the full video 😤😤😤😤🙄🙄🙄🙄

[@erictimothyanderson7469]

I bought a vstrom 650. I bought it AS IS from a local online classifieds ad. I bought it for less 3000 CAD. It is my first ever bike and it has been amazing learner bike for me as I am 6'4" and over 250 lbs. I have fallen in love with this sport!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing

[@got_to_roll]

6'4" 255#, just sold my modded to fit V-strom650 and am now on a Super Tenere. The V-strom650 was perfect for 3 years, 33,000 miles, riding more 2up and mountain passes now. Safe travels friend~

[@alphawolf2993]

You should consider redoing this for 2022, considering all the model changes and covid pricing. I think the new styling on the v-strom 650 is very competetive and there seems to be loads of them around used. Honestly, lots of people expected the t700 to be a silver bullet and sold their bikes to buy one, which is good for us used bike buyers.

[@explorationmoss1015]

I bought a Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 with 10k milles on it for 4000 dollars. Worth looking at one .Love it.

[@beemerfool]

Interesting and informative review. I've had an VStrom 1k, an 02 GSA, 07 GSA, 2016 Tiger 800, 06 Tiger 955i and finally a Super Tenere'. All were ridden for at least 20k miles (up to 45k) Best road bikes split between the Beemer's and Tenere'. Best off-road (as in dirt/gravel roads which is what you showed) for me was the Tenere' hands down. Felt planted, didn't want to squirrel out on rutted/gravel turns. Chugs up and down in 1st rear and through sand (Baja) like a champ. Stone axe reliable. (Couldn't say that about the Beemers) Maintenance a breeze (except valves and air cleaner). All bikes (except Tiger 800...never jelled with it) were taken on a road in Utah/Arizona through the Valley of the Gods to the Mokee Dugaway. All were loaded for extended (2wk +) travel/camping. Road is gravel, sand, rutted with wash-outs. Tenere was the only bike that I felt completely comfortable riding a relatively high speed on the pegs. AND, the ABS works amazingly well off road. My (mostly unbiased) opinion.

[@Nexus-6]

Yamaha is also rated as the most reliable brand on the planet, overall. Yamaha's also have the longest valve check intervals at 42,000 kms (26,000 miles). My concern with owning a BMW or Triumph is that the closest dealers to me (I live in north, central British Columbia, Canada) is that they are 800 kms (500 miles away).

[@highwayman1218]

I felt the same also. My Tenere with specific tires like Pirelli Scorpions it does very well off road. Currently Im on Dunlop Trailmax missions which has been a better blend of on and off road vs the Pirellis.

[@lino100x100]

I owned a 2016 f800gs, it's a fantastic bike on and off road, the engines consumes nothing, ad it's incredibly reliable. The engine is great even if it warms a lot and it vibrates a bit. The front suspension it's incredibile for off road (23cm of travel) but a bit too soft for road, especially if you travel with a passenger! I sold it, but i still miss it!

[@BigRockMoto]

agreed, great bikes

[@harolddavis4138]

I really enjoyed your video. You put together real personal experience which is better than other reviews. I'll add: Remember final drive failures of the BMWs. And even if they don't have final drive failures, just the extremely high scheduled maintenance cost. And they better get their maintenance. I got rid of my BMWs a long time ago and have been on V-Stroms. Never a problem since. Maintenance other than oil changes and tires you can pretty much ignore, and still go quarter of a million plus miles. Don't forget the VStrom 1000. Today I'm riding a 2019 V-Strom 1000 and it doesn't lack for power at all. My 1,000 VStrom doesn't care if I have a passenger on the back or fully loaded, it just goes.

[@stube49]

Great comparison! I just bought a 2020 V Strom 650 XT Adventure model with 1684 miles six days ago. And in defense of V-Stroms, their suspension travel is only 16%-30% less than the other five bikes. I realized when I bought it that I probably will only travel on gravel roads in pretty good shape when I am off the tarmac. And I purchased it for only $7300 plus tax but no dealer or set-up fees and rode it 643 miles home in the wind and rain with occasional blistering heat up over 100F. The bike handled well and seemed very smooth to me. So I feel very fortunate. I see great deals on BMW 1200 GS models but like you said, the maintenance is expensive; also, the dealers are scarce. I look forward to more videos!

[@rodholmes57]

I decided to get into the ADV market last year. My twist is nearly all of my trips will be 2-up and nothing more technical than dirt/fire roads. I did tons of reading and comparing and ended up going with a 2012 Super Tenere for three reasons: 1) Price: I was able to buy a 2012 with 30k on it for a little under $5k. As you noted, people put hundreds of thousands of miles on Super 10s. I was able to meet the previous owner and knew he would have treated it lovingly. At 30k...it's just getting broken in (yes, I know I need to have the valve clearance checked), but in the market's mindset, 30k is a lot of miles, so the price dropped. 2) HP and ability to carry camping gear and 2 not-small people comfortably. I've had to beef up the rear spring, but all it good. 3) Reliability. Nuff said. I'd love to get a 2014 or newer to get some of the upgrades that came in that year, but on the whole I'm really happy with the 2012. It's not perfect for everyone, but my wife and I love the Super 10.

[@BigRockMoto]

Perfect bike for what you describe! Enjoy

[@Pat-RickSmith]

I had a 06 KTM 950 Super Moto I have owned 15 bikes in my life hands down the best bike to put a smile on my face every single time I loved this bike .

[@richardhretczak536]

Pretty good comparison. As a V Strom guy (presently on 2017) and without any experience on any of other bikes I must agree with one of the comments above. For $7000 you can get brand new 650 (perhaps even XT). You can't get better value and reliability than that. This is my 13th V Strom and I've never had any single issue with them. Of course it doesn't have the same power and off road capability of the other bikes mentioned but for average Joe it is the way to go.

[@BigRockMoto]

Agreed 100%. But don't expect high levels of offroad performance and you will be fine

[@richardhretczak536]

Big Rock ADV you're absolutely right on this but, average Joe doesn't need it.

[@ClinttheGreat]

I have an ‘06 VStrom and have had very few complaints. It does need more ground clearance, suspension travel and power. You quickly find the limits of the ground clearance and suspension travel off-road unless you are just going very slowly down the trail. Also, loaded for a 10 day camping trip, the bike runs out of steam when you’re trying to pass up hill or are battling the wind.

[@billlloyd7423]

At first I thought this might be a sorta BS review but after listening I thought it was well balanced without a lot of bias. Good job!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks I am 100% independent.

[@oxman1834]

I purchased a super Tenere a few weeks ago I love it! I have been riding off road since 95 and as a first dual sport/ Adventure bike its killer!!

[@johnherbert5919]

As an 800gs owner I will say the bike is completely transformed with stiffer fork springs and 10 weight oil. No more front end dive under braking and offroad it becomes a lot more stable on gravel roads. Also the 800 engine can do really high miles, 300,000 plus.

[@randydriewer5847]

Mine was on it's third set of cam Chain and sprockets in 62k miles was starting to rattle again!!

[@12bravo68]

I have a KTM dirt bike and a Honda F6B for the street. My next purchase, someday, is an adventure bike. I've watched 100s of hours (seemingly) of adventure bike videos. This is the first one I've seen like this. Great idea! Very well done!

[@orical2832]

The problem with these new huge 'adventure' bikes is the cost and crucially, the maintenence costs when things go wrong. I got rid of my GS because the ABS system failed and BMW wanted several thousand to fix it. Sold the bike. If the majority of milage is on roads or dirt roads!/tracks where weight isn't going to be a problem, and your doing huge distances, the smart money goes on a Super Tenere... Ultra reliable, comfy, tough and dependable.

[@BigRockMoto]

Can't argue with that a Yamaha will likely have less issues.

[@ckkrons2338]

ModuleMasters in Idaho rebuilt my 07 1200GSA ABS pump for $250. Works great now.

[@kawabungah20]

This video is very helpful. Even though I'm ready to buy a new (vs. pre-owned) bike, your fact-based and experience-based observations really focus me on my own preferences and choices to make. Since I live in a remote area, far from major cities, the available dealer support that I will get for parts and service will be a big factor in my selection of a brand of motorcycle. As much as I have always admired Beamers as the ultimate machine to ride. I'm not convinced that the reliability and service support would be there..... Thanks for the help.

[@papatorr3669]

The F800GS was so good that FortNine picked it as his adventure bike...until the Tenere 700 came out! I gave the video a like because it's well done, even though I'm not in the market for a dual purpose bike any heavier than a KLR, and I'm looking to trade that for a lighter bike. So many people have gone off road around the world on bikes much smaller. Itchy Boots has used the Himalayan and now the CRF300 Rally to good effect.

[@matthewchandik7657]

Your subject matter expertise, fact based opinions and professional delivery is greatly appreciated. I have really enjoyed discovering and watching the content on your channel.

[@toslow9045]

i really like your honesty on your reviews, thank you

[@boodog4023]

Got a 2018 vstrom OTD 6 months ago for 7500. Been awesome; so if you want new--look at the Suzuki.

[@lancealbon46]

Boo Dog ... I’ve been considering the V-Strom 1000 here in New Zealand, with the spoked wheels, for NZ$14,995 (US$9,300) but on the fence if I should go new Suzuki or used Honda Africa Twin.

[@boodog4023]

@Daniel Smith It's not a "mediocre" bike because it doesn't specialize in a task. Reliability, bang for buck, make it an excellent bike--for those whom wish to ride and not merely posses a brand, and head aches..

[@wworld00]

Thanks for this! I'm currently trying to decide which used adventure bike to buy. A Tiger 955i was my previous ADV bike and I haven't had one for about 4 years now. That was the most comfortable motorcycle I have ever ridden, but just so top heavy. I have watched several of your videos and always find them helpful.

[@northeastadventuremotorcycleri]

That's what I've got Wayne, yes very top-heavy but I love the challenge of it and I do take it off road... it is my first adventure bike so of course I've nothing to compare it with

[@wimdriessens864]

IGreat magic move of the globe @ 25:26 😁 All kiddin’ aside, nice overview and feedback based on actual experience as you seem to have owned each of them at some point in time.

[@gordonjames8811]

I always dreamed that Yamaha would revise their big tenere. And oh yes the vstrom is a good pick and cheap to buy just buy stiffer front springs and keep note of the switch relay,thank you for your reviews

[@madmaxthemotomutt6464]

For 4k my versys x 300 is amazing, surprising amazing off road and has the highway speeds! And usually it still under warranty! It’s a real under rated bike!

[@ju_rld]

I tried a 1200GS, an AT and a super tenere the same day - liked the GS, loved the AT motor but not its confort and protection, I found in a super tenere a fusion with the motor of the AT and the confort and protection of the GS. Regarding the weight, the ST is heavy when stopped - but even at slow speed I found it so much balanced and easy, I was really impressed, to me so significant difference with a GS, except when the bike is stopped. I disagree with the top heavy, I found the weight pretty low - a vstrom has much top heavy weight to me for instance.

[@augustinee.salazar8742]

Very useful; appreciated. I have to conclude that it may be better, if able to afford, to go for the new bikes. The risk, as you mentioned, taking the depreciation hit. But with the improvements made on the new bikes it may be worth considering. However, as you will agree, you do not want to choose the wrong one and end-up unhappy with your bike. A very honest and down-to-earth video; thanks very much.

[@kueppi96]

I'v owned a 990 smt. Rode it onroad only, probably one of the most capable bikes there is. Be sure to have enough money after purchase. Service can be very expensive and ktm's are known for not being the most reliable. Mine had problems with the fuel injecting which even the ktm dealer couldn't fix over a period of 2 years.

[@WILLFROMBRASIL]

Took me 30 seconds to refocus after the random Titanic picture... GS: Angry German noise. *all of the German language sounds angry to me, including this beauty. #imthekingoftheworld #titanic #dicapriomemes 😝😝😝 great content mate!

[@gg48gg]

You really excel in these research based, analytical reviews and comparisons. Your methods for collecting and presenting relevant information without hype are superior to most.

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks

[@jonr4651]

I know this is an old video of yours, but for those watching the weight numbers are slightly inaccurate; the BMW R1200 is DRY(450-500lbs)/WET(540-590lbs)! The 950 is a hard one to pin down but I've seen reports of it weighing around 480 wet

[@nigo1787]

got a Tiger 800, absolutely agree with everything you say. It's not perfect by any means and it is barely a real adventure bike. But use it as a Tourer and it's great (foor a 800 that is) and it was also great value at the time (which I why they compromised here and there). I think the new Tiger 850-900 are now too expensive given they have more or less the same design flaws

[@muf722]

Globe moved! 25:22

[@ClinttheGreat]

Good comparison video, although I disagree about the VStrom and Tenere off-road. The Tenere’s electronic suspension is amazing and smooths out a lot of terrain. The VStrom does fine off-road as long as you keep your speed down and remember it’s limits.

[@BigRockMoto]

Fair enough!

[@kymstock1852]

This is a very accurate review. I owned a 2013 VStrom 650 and it was a nice bike, held back by its agricultural suspension. Hit a set of corrugations on a dirt road corner and it went haywire. I have ridden and ridden with the 990 KTM and GS800 on long rides. Your assessment is great, with the possible exception of off road ability of the BMW. When loaded for travel the front end gets flighty on sand roads, even after suspension work and steering dampers being fitted. The Tiger 800 is so much better after the update in 2015. I owned one for 5 years and rode it all over Oz. It handled rough dirt roads well and once underway the top heavy feeling seemed to disappear. The electronics ( ABS/ TC) and riding modes worked. If you are considering a Tiger, pay a little extra for a 2015.

[@robgielen5711]

thanks for the helpful video. Im looking to upgrade to a more offroad capable bike and im drawn to the ktm 990 at the moment but with my lack in mechanical skills and the high fuel consumption of the bike your video has made me consider the bmw 800gs aswell. Keep on going with the great content!

[@St4ticBloodLust]

I really appreciate this video. I just got into the market for a bike, but having had back and hip surgeries I want an adventure bike due to the fact that they are a great balance between touring and off road... Which i would love to have a camping/ off the map bike.

[@firesail6707]

Make sure you have buddies to help pick up the dropped 500-600 lb. bikes off road...:)

[@86BusinessSolutions]

Great video and fantastic comparison data provided. Just moved to Namibia and am looking to buy a used adventure bike so your video was very helpful. Thank you!

[@Titan500J]

I own a 05 GS1200 and I get the break system flushed every year. The rest of the maintenance I do myself. The gear box is clunky, missing 3rd has happened mire than I care to admit. Thanks for the video.

[@St3veWK]

Lol......so Im apparrently not the only one who suffers from "buy and then sell" syndrome ;)

[@smileycamel5635]

Having offroaded a fully moded super tenere ,I can attest to it just being hard work, it's just feels all the weight, especially when fueled up,...it carries the weight high, and you fight it. But if you keep it on asphalt, it's a blast.

[@thechernegroup5123]

Well done! You did a lot of research and shared valuable owner experiences and information. Thanks for putting this together!!

[@jimsnow9183]

Well done, rings true, I like how you invite others' preferences and input. I bogged down in the sand the other day for the first time on my v-strom 650. That was a humbler... Bags of fun any-way.

[@sergioscalia5922]

Maybe the best comparative video on adventure bikes.....compliments👍

[@2WheelsGood.01]

Ian, I'd love to see a new Super Tenere review. I feel like this bike is slept on super hard.

[@stevemillen_Realtor]

I got back into riding after a 6 year break following an accident. Spent a year on the Kawasaki versysx300 that I got for a steal with all the farkle you could imagine. I'm torn on the next bike but thanks for helping me narrow down the list!

[@InSaNeOski]

The best video I've found on this site. I'm trying to upgrade from my TENERE 660 because its too small for me and this video is perfect for me and my tastes.

[@highwayman1218]

Always cool to see ya hitting nearby roads and spots. 👍 Have a few bikes and my Tenere has become an enduring favorite. Ive run a few different tires on it and with a good knobbie like Pirelli Scorpions it does quite well off road. My Tenere is mainly my interstate tourer and foul weather commuter so I usually keep a set of Dunlop Trailmax Missions on it that work better for my needs and still do well offroad. Yes its best with a few $$, but once spent its nearly perfect as a do it all.

[@shmac96]

Im still new to your channel but man I am enjoying your content! Keep 'em coming! Solid!

[@daveylocker8]

Great job. Thank you for this. You have a lot of knowledge and experience. Great video editing.

[@a1scoot]

Perspective is a funny thing…..Rode a Honda F6B for 72,000 miles thru 35 states…Got bored with it and picked up an 18 Super Tenere ES and it feels relatively light after the Wing… Recently added a Honda XR 650L for the more extreme off road jaunts as it feels like a flyweight….Perspective.

[@AndersLiljeqvist]

Great videos! A silly request from a non-American (I'm in Sydney, Australia). For future videos, it would be awesome if you in addition to the imperial metrics (e.g. bike weight in lbs, suspension travel in inches, fuel capacity in gallons) also translated the specs to metric values. Reading weights in kilograms, lengths in centimetres, and volume in litres is a lot easier for viewers (like me) who are not familiar with US measurements. Cheers!

[@BigRockMoto]

Will do thanks

[@itinensanzen]

The same for me in Brazil, even tho i watch lots of videos using nautical miles, knots, miles per hour, pounds, galons and feet it is still quite difficult to process since we use kilometers, centimeters and liters.

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

Good job on the comparison video. I don't think that you will get much push back from boxer owners. lol... even most of us complain about the shifting on a boxing being closer to a John Deer tractor than to any other motorcycle. The best part is that with the dry clutch you are free to use super good oil with friction modifiers in the engine, and tweak the gear oil to help the clunky shift a lot. The bad part is that changing out the clutch is just like on a car. You have to take the whole damned bike apart and separate the engine and transmission to get at it. You only want to do it once, so you buy super expensive, super high quality parts the first time, and you replace EVERYTHING with new BMW parts... and I mean everything - down to bushings, cables, pins, bolts, etc. You never want to do that job again. You will never see a Beemer owner abusing a clutch that they had to pay to replace. lol God forbid that you can't do the work yourself and have to pay BMW shop rates on top of the cost of the parts.

[@BigRockMoto]

The water cooled bikes fixed those issues right? I do remember the horrors stories of those older clutch jobs.

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

@@BigRockMoto I'm not an expert - maybe one will weigh in, but I think that all of the water cooled bikes (K series) are vertical in-line 4 cylinder with the cylinders lined up fore to aft instead of athwart ship like most rice burners, either that or Rotax motors on the ADV bikes, and they are absolute powerhouses vs the old boxers. Mine is a boxer which to my knowledge are all air/oil cooled now (oil heads) opposed cylinder twins. I love it (BMW R1100RT) Very quick with loads of torque, but only around 100 ponies. For a dual-sport/ADV bike I have a carb model KLX250S with the Bill Blue big bore kit (351cc), a pumper carb, soft saddle bags, air intake and exhaust mods, air pocket seat pad, programmable ignition module for advance curve maps - variable rpm limiter, and other tweaks... It has the weight of a 250 with the power of a 400. I also have a modified horse trailer that will carry both bikes in dry safety behind my SUV with room for tools gas and other extras, while the kayak or canoe goes on the roof (or both), and camping gear, and food/supplies in the back. I could take the KLX across country, but I am old, fat, and spoiled. lol I do believe that BMW finally fixed the clunky transmission... It has been a sore point for BMW owners for years. Pretty expensive and refined bikes for them to shift gears like a tractor.

[@ClinttheGreat]

Water cooled R1200gs is still a boxer 2 cylinder.

[@rogermeyer860]

Another great video Ian! I recently upgraded my 06 BMW R1200GS w/ 65k that I loved to a more off road capable 2012 R1200GSA for $10k which I like even better due to larger tank, more HP, better suspension and wind protection. Next I'd like to add a smaller dirt bike like a Yamaha WR250 or Honda CRF300 to my stable.

[@PeterErikson-rd5tj]

the ktm. looks. like. the. best. combo on this list. for $7.000. A lot of the other bikes were heavy road bikes w/ big shocks. A used. 10. year old. . Kaw KLR 650 for $4000. is. my. happy. place.

[@tiperik99]

Great review!! Thank you for being so detailed!!

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hemmatv1582]

Thanks! So the 800xc - beacuse its lighter, strong engine, high suspention, and good score on road/offroad handeling.

[@rkroz4005]

Very comprehensive analysis is really helpful. Thanks!

[@tradmanmike3360]

AFTER WATCHING THIS GREAT INFORMATIONAL VIDEO, I'M BACK TO THE HONDA CN750X. I THINK I'LL NOT MAKE THE 7K PRICED AS I WANT A 2021. YOUR VIDEO HELPED ME TO MAKE A DECISION. THUMBS UP!!!

[@americanflyer4126]

Good video. I just wish someone could build a twin ADV that weighs no more than about 400 lb or 200 kg. The Tenere 700 comes closest I think.

[@BigRockMoto]

When you consider a klr weighs over 400 building a twin at that weight seems hard.

[@richardhretczak536]

And KTM 790

[@ethanc667]

Versys x 300. 382 lb wet. Uses Parallel twin from ninja 300

[@mimi1girl2dempsey3]

@@ethanc667 I have one and mostly ride dirt roads and ATV trails. Suspension could use some upgrades. Probably going to invest in progressive springs and better rear adjustable rear shock.

[@rodrigomrp3004]

Excellent, honest and useful analysis, as always. Thanks Is the F800GS (2010-15) best value used bike to buy in 2022? Why? Which are best web sites to buy pre-owned bikes in US?? Thank you!!

[@TsvetanVR]

I just bought a 2001 Honda Transalp 650 the other day in almost like new condition for 2300 Euros (good tires, brakes, chain, LED bulbs in the headlight, USB power, crash bars, rear/side luggage racks included).. It's awesome both on and offroad. Easily rides at 120-30kph on motorways with enough power to reach 150-60 easily when the need for that arises. 21/17-inch spoked wheels, 200/180mm travel and just 200kg fully loaded means it feels great off-road as well. I can't believe I got so much bike for the price of my S1000's forged wheels. It's also very comfy 2up.

[@1dancier]

Great comparison, but each bike could be a separate video of 3 minutes, and sum it up at the end, that way you keep your channel alive with new content.

[@BigRockMoto]

That's probably true but I'd rather provide a better viewer experience that chase more views. I don't make hardly any money anyway.

[@JRClaybrook1]

@@BigRockMoto I agree and for the purpose of this review I find this format very helpful in lining them up all in one video; those charts were very helpful too in keeping things in perspective as I would've forgotten each bike's specs as you move on to the next. Thanks so much for the time and effort in making your reviews!

[@keinname629]

unfortunately BMW 1200 GS from 05 to 08 in Europe is about double the price mentioned (2 x $7,000 USD) ...

[@marcready6369]

Really useful video. Thanks for this. I need a cheap mount for touring on dodgy roads.

[@hedwigleemans6249]

When you are over 6ft5 tall, the choice is very easy. Bmw has gone the harley way by overpricing everything w their label on it - a rip off My 03 carburated ktm950 has 100kkm… spent half of those km on bad and off road. the only thing i replaced was the fuel pump and a couple of bulbs. Says it all

[@bseidem5112]

Take note! You been spending serious time kissing your bike so it does not break? It's a KTM , the water pump should've failed at least 3X.

[@donholmes3267]

One does not need all that distracting electronic items in the dash . No one needs a distracting dashboard. Attention should always be focused on the possibilities in front of them !

[@GK479854]

Great video. Own a 2012 990 ADV. Fully agree with all you said. Thx

[@jurgenb3147]

This video moved the world

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

I thought maybe I would be number 20k subscriber 😂 still 19.9k 👍 good show

[@BigRockMoto]

So close!

[@johnweymouth5685]

Nice informative presentation. What are ur thoughts on the Honda cb500x for a 60% street/40% adv? Would like ur thoughts b4 I buy one.

[@BigRockMoto]

That would be great. Just don't go on more than fire roads.

[@johnweymouth5685]

@@BigRockMoto Ok, thank you much for the info.

[@ONEFAITHofJESUS]

@@BigRockMoto “...don’t go on more than fire roads.” Please would u explain? My understanding is that the smallest dirt bikes that are street legal are fun, beginner bikes and good enough for local streets and the slow lane on highways.

[@davidc1961utube]

Having ridden the F800 and F750 I hated the 800 and loved the 750. The 800 was tall and twitchy, and the 750 was a breeze to ride. I owned a 2006 V-Strom for years, set up for ADV touring. Really affordable, lots of accessories available, and bulletproof reliability. Fine for dirt roads or even quad tracks if not too steep or loose. Ride before you buy, because YMMV!!!

[@misteryman5109]

Good video. Well put together.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you liked it!

[@twowheelrodeo]

Great breakdown of all relevant points.

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks

[@jerseycowboy1]

The tiger seemed to me to have the best all around specs.

[@garyfff4757]

You certainly know what your talking about,I'm interested in a ADV,no interest in off Road whatsoever.ive narrowed it down to two Bikes. Triumph Tiger or Bmw GS ..I'm 6' 2" and main criterias are reliability and comfort. Which would you choose?and which year? Thanks.

[@markbikeman]

would have liked to see the Honda Varadero in there and - triumph or 1 BMW, but I do like what you say.....WHEN YOU first start I kind of expect CAPTAIN of the math team blah blah boring >>>>> but no you are very well experienced and informative keep up the good work and thank you for the info >>>>>>>>>>>

[@DDay9000]

To me, the important specs are suspension (travel/adjustibility), weight, and TORQUE (vs HP), and where the torque can be used. For off-road and for casual on-road, roll-on torque makes a huge difference. That's why the Tiger lags behind for off-road use, you have to keep it in the upper rev range.

[@marklescault9429]

How would you rate the bmw f800 for a beginner rider? Worth the learning curve of starting with the bigger bike? To much for a novice? I'd love your advice on this

[@zandlerthewizard]

Thanks for listing the bikes in the description.

[@BigRockMoto]

You bet!

[@joaodanunciacaonunes7539]

Hi, nice inputs! i´m selling my first bike, a CRF 250 Rally, and i´m looking for some middle size adventure bike, I still consider my self a newbie rider. I would like to have your opinion about having the f800 gs as my second bike. By the way i´m 50 years and 1,74 cm. thanks

[@pietervandermerwe4235]

Very good video Well delivered and researched Only thing I disagree with is the off road score for the Super Tenere I own a 2010 ST which I regularly ride off road/gravel roads and I find it very good What is the reasoning behind your low score other than weight?

[@travelinben1966]

I like the Super Tenere,and I appreciate your comments about it,having owned one previously.Since I prefer shaft drive, it's between the S10 and the Moto Guzzi V85TT.

[@BigRockMoto]

GS has shaft as well

[@travelinben1966]

@@BigRockMoto Yes,but too expensive.

[@lovelessissimo]

The Tiger 1200 is also shaft drive.

[@travelinben1966]

@@lovelessissimo Yes,but I've read it's a tank and top heavy.

[@lovelessissimo]

@@travelinben1966 Yes, that it is. But so is the S10. Just another option if shaft drive is a sticking point.

[@Scott___T]

Thank you for the comparisons! Any chance for a used 1200 shaft drive comparison; Tenere, Tiger BMW? Maybe a $10K limit?

[@davidc1961utube]

A note on your slides. Graphs comparing values should start at zero! Otherwise the differences are exaggerated, and a 10% difference can look like 30%!

[@Oculus729]

Graphs don't need to start at "zero." What a dumb comment. You just need to be better at interpreting graphs. You are obviously not an engineer or a mathematician.

[@davidc1961utube]

@@Oculus729 I am an engineer, with a master's degree. Graphs are just another way to present data. Graphs that do not start at zero exaggerate the differences between the data points, which can be helpful, deceptive, or anything in between. Those are facts. In my comment I was expressing my OPINION that when deciding between bikes, it would have been clearer to start at zero for the data being represented. Your opinion may differ, but the exaggeration due to the presentation method remains.

[@jim5alive]

@bigrockmoto I am watching this and wondering how the new Moto Morini X-cape would stack up against the older bike. The bikes you note here are approximately the same cost as the X-cape new (with discount). While the X-cape has Chinese sourced bits, in person it seems like the bike is well built! I don't mind it being low on power or driving too far down those rutted trails. Roads and gravel trails and covering miles are my interest!

[@yohann2768]

Thank you for the review. I always thought that 1200GS was out of budget but you finally can find some at reasonable prices. For ADV-touring bikes, I think shaft drive is a must. Cleaning/lubing/tensioning your chain every 500km is really a chore, espacially if you ride in the dirt.

[@anymouse6202]

Thanks for the video.

[@coachdan1235]

Any thoughts on the bmw f 650gs? a 2005 came up for sale in my neighborhood for a what looks like a great price (shopping around for my first bike)

[@chrishart8548]

Is that the twin cylinder with single disc front brake

[@STRUTZKOFF]

Don’t forget the tiger 955!

[@BigRockMoto]

I probably should have included it.

[@bfrederick1529]

If you had $7k to spend on an ADV bike with panniers for a trip to AK, followed by a trip to Central America, which bike would you choose and why? 60% touring 30% double track, 10% single track. I keep returning to the BMW F800GS, but you appear to like the Triumph as well...my concern would be parts availability and maintenance on non-Japanese, but there do not appear any stellar options between Yamaha and Suzuki for this type of riding. I haven't come across an Africa Twin in this price range...

[@UhYeahWhateverDude]

XR650l or old KLR. Unless you are in North America or Europe, you are going to have a real hard time getting parts for anything else. And don't expect anyone to know how to actually work on it. And the fuel quality is some of these places? Buy a carbureted Honda for 2k and save the rest of your cash for the trip. After all, the other bikes are just faster on the highway. That's it. What's the hurry? It's a trip, right? Or...do your North America/Europe type stuff on a big tourer, then sell it and get an old Honda for the other places.

[@BigRockMoto]

That's hard because to ride to Alaska I'd take a Super Tenere or R12GS. But for South America I would not take any of these big bikes. I'd take a DR650.

[@kuladeeluxe]

My brand new 2017 Vstrom 650 cost $5300. It is the best value touring bike you can buy for most real world travels. I would not take it off road with that suspension, however, these bikes all suck off road. Gravel roads is about tire choice.

[@jerseycowboy1]

What is a good mid weight expensive two up motorcycle for adventure riding? I been looking a long time what's everyone's opinion and why? Thank in advance!

[@adamdietz6960]

Got a 2016 Tiger XCA for $6500 two weeks ago :D

[@SamOnABikeSweden]

Is the Triumph Tiger reliable? I want to buy one, do not know which, 800 XC or 1200 ... But I am also used to the quality of Japanese motorcycles. Are you still happy with yours?

[@adamdietz6960]

@@SamOnABikeSweden the Tigers are great and can be just as reliable as the Japanese. The build quality is very good in my opinion. The triple motor is sublime, only downside is the need to rev it up a bit/feather the clutch if you take it off road, but if you’re tarmac only it’s as good as anything else. I just traded mine last week on a KTM 1190. I had no intentions of moving on from the Tiger but the deal was too good to pass up. I put 10k miles on it in 7 months, got more for it on trade than I paid! The main fuse module was the only problem I had with the bike, simple $40 fix.

[@joecarlson5418]

Very informative video.

[@lelanangingjagad...6350]

Great review...❤

[@leonvdb8388]

He man, thanks for the vid. Timeless content! I'm thinking about buying a KTM990s Dakar from 2007 (blue metallic). Love at first sight. However, what are the main issues I should ask more about? Thanks again

[@stevemason7790]

Nice unbiased review,well done.Nice that you actually owned and used some of these bikes,thoroughly enjoyed that.Currently in research mode,seems there is a big gap in the mid-range duel sport ADV market.As an old bloke with a few broken bits and some missing,going to sell my 2 older club bikes(road)keep my little wicked W800 road,and get myself something to tootle around on.I live in a great spot in Australia,and fancy taking advantage of some low key trails near home.I really don't get that that market is poorly catered for.Maybe you could do a review on that.Think RE definitely nailed it with the Himalayan,but poor quality build,reliable enough though.Thinking the CB500X probably way to go,but they too need a little work.Would like to hear your thoughts,cheers from down under,Steve

[@BigRockMoto]

Tenere 700