Best Adventure Motorcycles for Beginners Tier List (Updated for 2025)

[@DorkintheRoad]

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[@OffThe_Blacktop]

@@DorkintheRoad I have the older version. The hose stripped out rather quickly. But Fanttik makes a replacement hose with a quick release. I highly recommend everyone who buys a pump get the upgraded hose. It’s a perfect combo!

[@jameserskine8246]

Mine is fantastic! I've used it for my motorcycles, car, bicycles, and exercise balls. Thanks for recommending it.

[@jackbankson927]

@@DorkintheRoad hey man, just an update, the price is out for the new 390 adventure R.

[@67daltonknox]

The best bike for a beginner is a ten year old small capacity dual sport. Light and easy to ride, you can drop it, run into things, pick it up and carry on. After 6 months you can sell it for what you paid for it and get something more interesting. You don't want to be falling off a brand new bike and if you spend some time with it in the dirt, you will be a better rider.

[@caleroby9483]

100% agree. Good stuff!

[@petterbudt]

Totally agree. But something cheap you will upgrade when you drive for a while. Went from stupid new bmw-gs 1150, to old Honda transalps.

[@siouxunit17]

Crf300l

[@alexandrelegault3400]

TW200 entered the chat

[@Ovokor]

Very true, just completed my first season on a motorcycle and I picked up a 1991 KLR650 for $2,000 and that thing performed very well and having a bike where when I did drop it, the damage just kind of disappeared with all the other scratches and damage. My dumbest drop is I dropped my glove and leaned over to grab it and bike tipped over. I have fallen in love with duel sport adventure bikes because I can go exploring and the bike just does not care. A street princess like a Harley just hisses at gravel and runs away scared when a $2000 bike just wants to do it again.

[@billyandriam]

As someone who blindly bought a bike to cure my depression, I ordered the 450MT from China without any much knowledge. I'm so happy to realize that I've chosen the best beginner ADV out there, it's really great for my mental health. Greetings from Madagascar and happy new year everyone!

[@roadkill8161]

I done the same thing. Turns out riding is the best therapy. You meet great people and build and find places in your country you had no idea even existed. Good luck with your bike man and I hope it helps you as much as its helped me

[@e2298sg]

How did you order it from China? Mostly interested in who you ordered it from.

[@billyandriam]

@ I'm in Madagascar, so I don't know about your country and how your import/customs/duties tax laws apply. In my country it's quite easy for indivuals to order vehicles from abroad. I did this by contacting a local shipping agent in Antananarivo who have offices in Guangzhou and Foshan, and they ship to my country by sea freight. I paid the money in my local currency at their offices, and they shipped my bike afterwards. Again, the only thing I could advice you if you plan to do it like is: "PLEASE BUY THE INTL VARIANT NOT THE CHINESE ONE". There are 3 variant for this bike: CF-4008 (intl version), CF400-F (EU version), and CF400-8F (China version). I totally didn't know about these version and my agent ended up buying the Chinese version. It works flawlessly but the interface on the dashboard cannot be paired with the CFMOTO RIDE APP. It can only be paired with the Chinese CFMOTO-APP which is totally in Chinese and it sucks big time!

[@dennylowery8546]

I’m a new ADV guy. Got the 2024 KLR 650 S. Short legs lol. 56 years old and I couldn’t e happier with this bike. Already have every Tusk accessory. 2300miles

[@SkintSNIPER262]

I got the 2024 standard model as my first 👍

[@bseidem5112]

Replace the doo-hickey?

[@p.s.1815]

Nice Bike congratz. I wish the new KLR would be available in europe.

[@3Telecasters]

I have a 2007 first gen KLR650 and it's my do everything motorcycle.

[@Scrubadubsuds]

Just turning 60 years young. Haven’t owned a bike for 25 years. Bought a 2010 KLX 250 6 months ago. My riding skills are not what they used to be. After a lot of research I purchased a used 2023 RE Himalayan 411. Yeah it’s underpowered but for the smiles per gallon I love it.

[@twloughlin]

I know I am probably gonna get laughed out of the comments, but a very nice beginner bike for off-road fun is the Honda CT125 Trail Rider. Yes, only 125cc, so you are never taking it on an interstate, or any road over 55MPH for more than 30 minutes, but hear me out. This is a bike for people who are "slow rollers" and not into riding the most challenging courses on the planet. This is for people who like to cruise back country roads, wide open dirt/gravel roads (forest roads), watch the scenery go by, and take things easy. Everyone's definition of "adventure" is different, and for a lot of people - senior citizens in particular - this makes a very capable "adventure" bike. At 262 lbs wet it is pretty easy for a guy like me - north of 70yo - to handle if dropped. I have a hitch/rack system I can put this on and drive to anyplace I'd like to ride. And yes, people have done the TAT and BDRs on it (Ange from Some Guy Rides et.al.). Sterling at Motorcycle Travel Channel has a lot of content on riding this on AZ back roads. So in the "Senior" category, I list this one. It's a great bike for seniors, those with some other riding limitations, and people who like a slower pace of adventure life. Thanks for listening.

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

I love the little Trail 125. I wanted one even before Sterling made the gorgeous Motorcycle Travel Channel videos. Most of my rides with friends are 45-60 MPH on secondary roads and the Trail 125 wouldn't quite keep up, and while I don't enjoy it, I occasionally ride highways where I wouldn't take a 125 cc bike. However, I could definitely see myself on a Trail 125 for solo back roads, dirt roads and trails.

[@jvf7762]

Man that takes me back. As a teen I spent a lot of time on a 1977 Honda Trail 90. It had a max speed of about 60 downhill with the wind at my back but most of the time it was on dirt roads anyway so top speed wasn’t a concern.

[@scottstringer4]

@@twloughlin I’m 38 and I’d love to have that bike, for all the reasons you mentioned. My only concern is its carrying capacity. At 260, I’m likely too big for it!

[@twloughlin]

@@scottstringer4 Well, depends on where you get your info. Honda seems not to list a capacity limit, but there's evidence it can handle 300lbs. So you plus 40lbs of gear would be OK. Just don't expect to crack 50MPH! 😄

[@markusludwig6023]

I absolutely agree, and I take my Rieju 125 MRT Pro with 15 HP with my campervan and explore european Countries offroad.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I'm sorry I kept saying KTM 390 Adventure RALLY. I know it's the 390 Adventure R. I don't know why I kept saying that.

[@TaranisBlue]

Don’t apologize for anything bro you are awesome for making the video. Period.

[@davidc1961utube]

Drink AFTER filming. JK, LOL. The error likely was Freudian, referring to the bike we WISH we had...

[@elee9956]

390 adventure R looks amazing. But I bet it will be expensive after you add the Explorer suspension and other goodies

[@Mark-ou8nu]

Waiting if the bankruptcy allows either to be delivered...

[@OPRINTING]

Ur good baby girl

[@daletroy3348]

As someone that owns both CFmoto 450MT and a highly modified CRF 300 Rally I’d recommend both bikes obviously the CRF if you’re wanting off road predominantly or the CFmoto is brilliant if you have a little more tar roads in mind , I’m in Australia where we have lots of open spaces to ride and I can have both of these bikes for the same money as a T700 how good is that 👌 keep up the good work Ben I’m a life time rider x racer and enjoy you channel more than I imagined I ever would 🤣 👍👍👍

[@ianbray3580]

Hi Dale I’ve got a crf300l with 14/48 gearing an FMF exhaust and yss rear shock it’s awesome in the dirt for me at 64 years young perfect for me in Aus might add an XR650 to my shed soon

[@rick_zonte]

I just bought a hero XPulse 200 here in El Salvador: it’s cheap, very reliable and has great off-road capabilities, especially on demanding single tracks in the jungle. It’s produced in the millions in India and costs less than $2600 with a four year warranty. Have a lot of other other bikes in Europe, but it’s the perfect choice for this country, although it has only around 18 hp. Love this bike.

[@bullsharkdb]

He is focusing in the USA market bro

[@billyandriam]

Xpulse are great!!! They sell like hot cakes here in Madagascar.

[@BillErrico]

Honda Trail 125, It's a silly underpowered machine but will give you miles of smiles and is a real challenge to ride off road. My friend and I have ridden and completed the PaBDRX, MABDR and the NEBDR on ours this last year. It never failed to draw a crowd when we stopped on the routes. The plan is to do the TAT in a year or two with them.

[@izaacmp]

Why is it so challenging off road? Accidental heel-shifting when standing? Suspension/wheel size? Or something else? It's awesome that you've been using the trail on the trails!

[@aviduke]

A colleague has one along side he goldwing, xr650 and bonneville. He loves it, no idea why honda put such a tiny tank and feeble engine

[@jamesb.armstrong5433]

I do like my Trail 125. I ride it on back roads (55 mph). I ride my Monkey just for fun. I ride my Rebel 500, if I'm going on higher speed roads or longer distance. I have more miles on the Trail.

[@alphawolf2993]

I have a cb500x and its solid b-tier. If you're so short that your bike choice is limited, it's near A-tier. Done some crazy adventures with it and its never let me down.

[@robertedwards4904]

I have a 2024 DR650 and a 2025 Cfmoto 450MT. Love them both. The 450 MT is a dream to drive on the road and extremely capable off road. The DR 650 has the edge off road.

[@RealmXplore]

Purchased my first motorcycle last march never rode a bike except for the training class for my license. I purchased a 2024 Honda Transalp XL750 and it was a little intimidating at first. Put about 6500 miles on it during the spring summer and fall. Absolutely love the bike became very comfortable on it pretty quickly. Now when i look at the bike it looks friendly and kind of smaller lol. I personally recommend The Honda Transalp XL750 as a first bike for someone who is a quick learner at things and who is motivated at succeeding at whatever you put your mind to. Side note im only 5 foot 9 and i purchased the lowered honda seat to feel more comfortable on it and get better footing which really helped and it is not that much less comfortable than the stock seat. I travel for work and some days put over 200 miles on the bike and is on and off it for about 12 hours doing my route and my butt and back gets tired however not that bad at all.

[@NunyaBusiness...]

I started out on a CB500X thanks to your channel, and several others. It was a great decision as it got me back on a bike after some poor decisions many years ago. I've since learned what I'm after and built better skills/habits so I passed the CB500X on to a friend at a steal of a deal price. Moved on to a Super Tenere 1200 and loving it for what I need. True, I'll never run the BDR stuff with it, but I learned that's not what I love about a being on a bike. I like to travel more with it. Still following your channel to support your growth as you showed me I'm not too old, fat, or terrible at it to enjoy a motorcycle! Thank you, Ben!

[@mikerechner3533]

Don't sleep on the Versys x-300! Glad it made your list! I have pointed mine down some trails I had no business taking her on and she did great! But I have a deposit down on an Ibex 450 (still waiting!) so looking forward to climbing to the top of your list! Excellent content as always!

[@allenantonio4389]

He is too fat for the bike plus he is clueless only looking for ADS

[@frederickjeremy]

Love my dr650 transformed adventure bike, not great at anything but good at most, bought it to commute, still commute with it, just so happens all the adventure gear available for it made my commuting better. Bike paid for itself long ago with the money my work pays me for wear and tear on my vehicle. I have been impressed with it on backroads, and even a few hunting leases back in the woods. Has made 1000 breakfast runs to the doughnut shop in town. Im currently at a tad over 22,000 miles, zero issues, still runs like a brand new one but better with the upgrades ive done. I will always have that bike in the stable.

[@Berw52]

72 years old, live and tour in S E Asia for 30 years, mainly on a cruiser, but just moved to Indonesia, where roads are awfull, bought a versys 250x, which is a tax efficient bike made for limited markets, did a few day trip round the volcano behind the house, and just did 1800km tour of Java, bike was fantastic, did two days on true off road, but most days involved long streches of broken tarmac and gravel

[@louispaulter8733]

Dork, the KLR 650s are misunderstood by a lot of riders because of specs / lack of new electronic features, etc. So, dealers have a ton still on the floor & have to move them. Ergo, great deals. Like a NEW 2024 KLR 650 ADV. for $ 6800.00 OUT THE DOOR. And if you are just a Slow Speed EZ Going Explorer rider, the KLR 650 rules for the $$$ !!! You sold me on it with your reviews. And keep those great reviews coming , Ken !!!

[@lastsonofkrypton36]

But that would buy you the Ibex 450, which is lighter and has just as much power. The KLR was a good budget choice for a long time, but the new midsize bikes are pretty much going to make it irrelevant.

[@_JimS]

Hey Dork, new to the channel here. One thing I thought of that the CF Moto reminded me of is ease of maintenance, which may be something you want to include when recommending these bikes. The reason I mention this is I watched a video on this guy, "Can You Work On Your CFMOTO Ibex 800T / 800MT? by Ozarks Backroads. I made a living as a motorcycle mechanic years back and can tell you this video wore me out. If there are beginner riders then there are beginner mechanics too. I know the CFMoto 800 is out of bounds on this video but it may be something to consider going forward. If you have to take half the bike apart to get to the plugs or air cleaner then that could be a factor to purchasing. Thanks, cool channel you heave here.

[@JimGoryeb]

This list is pretty much spot on. Well done!

[@pnwguy221]

My vote is still the klx300. I have been riding for over 20yrs and I love this bike. Out the door new price is 8k, add on another 1k for accesories and you have a good entry level light ADV bike. It’s not the best highway bike for over 65mph but its great offroad and on fire roads. When you drop it in the nasty stuff mosy folks can simply pick it back up and continue on your journey. For rides under 100 miles per day it is a great bike. I have had many rides and this is #1 for light ADV use.

[@SBC-Dualsport]

I'd add the KLX300 also. Had mine for a while and love it, the Norden 901 seems to sit more than not.

[@aknmtbr]

Out the door for 8k?! You got ripped off.

[@pnwguy221]

@@aknmtbr I live in northwest washington. Nothing is budget or cheap up here, nothing. That is the going rate for otd at the time everywhere within 100+ miles

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

I bought a G310GS for my 60th birthday for old man moto camping adventures, and that prompted an old friend to buy a CRF300L Rally and now he wants to go gnarly dual sport places my baby GS probably shouldn't go, so now I'm seriously considering the KLX300. If the CRF300L made this list, the KLX300 should too. Way better suspension, and the price dropped $750 in 2025. That's crazy!

[@pnwguy221]

@@UltralightMotorcycleCamping I would agree that the klx300 suspension is really good for what it is. I am 200lbs with riding gear and another 25-30lbs of accesories on the bike and the suspension is still pretty good. It does bottom out a little on big washouts but that is to be expected on any bike. And with the klx weighing in at about 330lbs loaded I can still pick it up off the trail side after a tip over.

[@alexmoreno8156]

I started riding on a KTM 390 adventure. I wouldn’t recommend it; basically it’s too compact and you will outgrow it quickly. I then got a T7. Fantastic bike. It has a docile powertrain and can do it all. I then got a Tuareg 660. Fantastic bike! A step above the T7 with better suspension and electronics. Now I ride a Husky 701 built to be an adventure bike. My recommendation, don’t get anything smaller than Ibex 450 or Himalayan 450.

[@Sven-jg4jf]

Hey Dork! I’d like to throw in the XR650l… only because you mentioned the DR650. Yep, it’s tall but I lowered mine with both a link and Seat Concepts lowered seat and it works great with my 30” inseam. I own both the 300 Rally and the XR and honestly can’t decide which one to keep! Love them both!

[@lennygumm642]

Great video! I bought the Himmy 450, love it so far. It's my first road bike, and with a 20yr break from riding dirt bikes, I appreciate the stability and sure footed-ness of the ride. I think it is going to be a great, and inexpensive, intro to road and ADV riding.

[@Ufbwgeufjdo]

I used to ride off-road my Classic 500. The only mod was a pair of dual sport tyres. It is a really fun and surprisingly capable bike on dirt and gravel roads pretty much like the old VW Bug.

[@mindful_moto]

The versys x300 is actually pretty good off road with some light modifications. I recently did an off road video on my channel showing it’s potential I personally ride a modified WR250r and it’s a fantastic machine

[@jimmyshanks4580]

Didn't see the bmw 310gs, or it's replacement coming out either. Sure has the higher price tags, and without the large amount of dealers stateside either. But still a good alternative to the cfmoto 450ibex. Especially for beginners, and everything else mentioned. The new replacement coming out is better than the outgoing 310 in several areas. But still fits your criteria in this video, and will certainly be a great competitor for the cfmoto, an also new ktm.

[@andrewstambaugh240]

Those are great little bikes. The problem is in that little bikes category, they are outshined by the ktm 390 a and the versys x300. If you are concerned about reliability, kawi is the obvious choice. If you want most diverse capabilities, the ktm is the clear winner. And if you are concerned mostly with looks, then the Himalayan is the way to go. None of that is saying the bwm is bad in any way. Just had too many competitors on a 'best' list. What's odd is he included so many sub par bikes on a best list instead of obvious honorable mentions like the bmw 310

[@pbeardy]

I made the ‘B’ list with my brand new KLR!! WOOHOO!! 🎉👍🏻

[@kefahuchi]

Great video. The CRF300Rally may technically be a dual sport but lots of people have adventures on it. I rode mine 7000 miles London - Pamir Highway/Wakhan Valley last Summer. Even got used to the seat. Interestingly, I saw 5 or 6 others doing the Pamirs. Perfectly at home on the rough roads of the ‘Stans, long range and easy to pick up.

[@ruley74]

G310gs… wife just picked one up, pretty basic but reasonable consideration for beginner Adv

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

I bought a new G310GS over four years ago for US $4920 out the door, with a three year factory warranty that I never used. It's never been back to the dealer. I do all of the scheduled maintenance and it's been very cheap and easy to keep, and so far, 100% reliable. It's easy to ride and comfortable. I avoid highways most of the time but I've done some 500 mile day rides on major secondary roads that would have been murder on most of the bikes on Ben's list. I mostly got the G310GS for secondary roads, gravel and dirt roads and mild trail riding to camp in the woods... in other words, ADV riding, and it's been great for that. Even though my idea of ADV bikes is lightweight and off road oriented, I like the 19/17 wheel combo on ADV bikes. 21/18 wheels are more for hard off road dual sport bikes. I've done many mods to make the baby GS better for off road, where it's surprisingly capable. I would have preferred tubeless spoke wheels but the alloy wheels are tubeless (very nice) and they're actually strong enough for the slow off road riding that I do as an old man. Again, if you need spoke wheels, you should be riding a dual sport.

[@davidc1961utube]

As a previous owner of the RE 411, I agree with where you put it. I was muttering DR under my breath until you mentioned it, and would definitely replace the KLR with the DR on my list. Especially considering that aftermarket parts for the DR is an industry all unto itsself. Would love to try the CF Moto, and also hope Triumph make a 21/18 version of the 660 Sport I own. Thanks for the video!

[@GrantRTanner]

Great vid! Wow...that into and outro really rook me back. Looking for my first bike as a 6'5" tall rider.

[@canadagoose62]

I started out on a husqvarna 901 and had a dirt bike background but had not ridden for 30 years. You are right Ben, too heavy and too much power. I think the CF Moto will be a great first adventure bike. Look forward to a review when you get your hands on one👍🏻

[@stephenbecker1463]

Dork....You are recommending a motorcycle based on thr spec sheet. I will just say Transalp...😁 I remember the spec sheet. I have always said I wish I had KTM money based on the perception of reliability. Now with KTM financial issues, no way I would go that route. Thank you for what you do. Keep on keeping on

[@alm4132]

+1 on the TransAlp

[@piotrpilinko639]

Also KTM service in my neighbourhood is the most expensive. So I stick to Honda: for reliability, reasonable service prices and availability of parts for a very long time period. Transalp is too big for my needs, so I got NX500.

[@d.a3446]

Think I’ll go for the Tuareg 660. I’m 65, rode motocross bikes in my youth, took 30 years off then bought a big cruiser in my late 50’s. Ridden the cruiser 35k miles but getting bored with pavement only. Don’t plan on anything technical but want some easy dirt under my tires. No long road trips either. I haul my bike around the country in a toyhauler and then ride the area around camp, sometimes with my wife on back. She weighs less than most folks luggage I see 😂. So despite all the reliability paranoia I read about, gonna give the Aprilia a try.

[@jacvpt8778]

@@d.a3446 It's an amazing bike. Just keep in mind it weighs more than 200 kg (fueled).

[@d.a3446]

@@jacvpt8778 good point. I drop my road king on occasion doing slow speed maneuvering practice, and while difficult I can still pick it up. It’s over 800 lbs so I’m hoping I can handle 450, even on unpaved surfaces

[@raymondmalone5661]

Most underrated bike on the market. Lighter and more powerful than most other mid sized twin cylinder Advs on the market

[@TimsMotorcycleAdventures]

I started adventure riding on a Vstrom 1000. Not too smart. This list would have been very helpful, lol. Great video.

[@ZephyrCalhoon]

While not an adventure bike, I got a 2009 KLX 250 and it had been a fantastic beginner bike. 6 speed gearbox so it can do 115 km/hr on highway. But it is best to keep the highway stints short. It has also been bulletproof reliable.

[@SoCalSlaughter]

I have a 23 Honda CRF300L and a 24 Honda NX500. Love them both. Each has its own personality. Fun to ride in the Malibu mountains.

[@colinshurey976]

@@SoCalSlaughter I just spent 14 days riding the NX500 and 5 days riding a crf300 in the mountains of north thailand I agree with both of these 😀👍

[@Haytifdad]

For any new rider to recommend anything from KTM in the current manufacturer environment, it is inprudent. Costs too much for a beginner, and the potential for reduced parts available is real. Agree with the Himalayan and KLR. Both of whom are so prevalent used and new. The CF could be awesome, and I'd take a chance on it. Thanks for the thought exercise Brother!

[@matts1521]

I'm surprised the bmw f 310 gs did not make the list, I had my gf get it as her first bike (never been on one or driven one before) and has been fantastic, I've taken it out myself and it's a ton of fun, pretty lite and very easy to ride, also pretty cheap to buy!

[@roysteves]

Yep, I love my KLR650S, and while the Ibex sounds amazing, I am glad that the KLR has so many aftermarket parts out there. Customizing the bike to my satisfaction has been a great part of my new rider experience, and gave me confidence working on it ahead of needing to make field repairs. Is it heavy? Hell yes it is, but some of that is the HUGE gas tank. When I was out riding with KTMs at the Giant Loop rally, I served essentially as the group's emergency reserve. I only need half the tank most of the time, but every once in a while, I am so glad to have the range. Is it slow? Hell yes it is, but I'm fine with a top speed of 80ish, considering I bought it to tractor around logging roads. But it has good wind protection, and that huge seat is comfortable even on 4-5 hour rides (and if you're taller than I am, the standard seat is even cushier than the S model's thinner one). Cheap, indestructible, and capable in the ways I need it to be. Might I get something lighter someday? Sure, but for now, the best bike for me is whatever is in the garage already, and I'm lucky to say it's my customized KLR650s. :)

[@papatorr3669]

@roystevens sounds like a great choice for you. I think that something that cannot be stressed enough is that a motorcycle has to fit your body. I had a beautiful Kawasaki bright green KLR set up for adventure. But I am 5'3.5 in and I did not like picking it up and my mechanic and I figured out that by the time we lowered it from 35-in seat height to 32 it would have defeated the purpose/design of going off-road. Although it would still be capable on gravel and fire roads etc. I think the 96 and newer DR650 that can be lowered is the much better choice for shorter riders. And It can be modified as an adventure bike. And I believe it is 40 lb lighter than a KLR. Although not currently available my personal choice ended up being the DR350 with a wide range 6 speed transmission.

[@yardbird-wh2bx]

My brand knu klr model 12 has been fun!! Will roll its wheels till the end of the earth, if I have any choice in the matter!

[@DirtChainy]

Great list. Completely understandable a couple dual sports made it in the list, blurring the line between ds/adv. I’m excited to see when the Bavarians come out with the F450Gs

[@moorepower13]

Nice to see the DRZ400 come out on top once again.

[@adventuresofasimpleton]

@@moorepower13 the DRZ400 has about a 100mile fuel range before the engine dies suddenly. That is not an adventure bike lol.

[@TheChillBison]

Thanks for the X9 Pro recommendation! I realized that was missing from my fresh toolkit as I've just finished building up my DRZ! Ordered from Amazon at 5, showed up at 9!

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I’ve made the mistake of getting too much bike, then discovering that I bought way more than I needed. I used to recommend that people just grow into their bikes to save money, but now I’d say start at the Versys 300x / crf300l rally level.

[@thomasweirs1971]

Same, my friend!! The 2023 KLR 650 is probably my tenth bike over the past 20 years but every time I ride it, I think it should have been my first.

[@micahnuckols5046]

Shcok pumps also work well for inflating tires and they take up less space and they will inflate to 300 psi by hand. They won't inflate as fast as a floor pump, but it's a trade off. I keep one in my camelbak when I ride so I can adjust my tubliss/tire pressure depending on the conditions. Wp, RockShox, Tusk, they are all the same digital pumps just rebranded.

[@TerraPruett]

My last off road, non-street legal dirt digger was the 1978 Yamaha TT500. Full knobbles, Brutal and unforgiving. Brakes were merely suggestions. A powerhouse in it's day. One careless twist of the throttle and dump of the clutch and you're on your ass. It even had a compression release to get it kick started. No battery or lights.

[@cr4zyw3ld3r]

One that you won't hear too many folks mention, the Christini 450DS it had a limited run, but I got to ride it recently through Metcalf and I was pretty dumbfounded by the performance. The AWD aspect can be unnerving because it pulls you in the direction that you are steering if you enable it but at the same time in loose dirt its also a bit of a cheat code especially as a beginner. The seasoned ADV/dirt bike riders hate it, but I found it to be pretty amazing. Plus you will climb muddy ruts on it like its nothing while the rest of the group are pushing and tugging and spinning wheels.

[@CountryBoy1069]

I own a 2021 Benelli TRK 502X and it's been nothing but AWESOME!!! I'm 55 yrs old, 6'5 256lbs and I can handle the weight of the bike, because it's a pretty heavy bike. It's also a little under powered for a bike with that much weight, but! with that said. I have owned it for over a year and a half and I have nothing bad to say about it. I like that it is not a crotch rocket so to speak and it does just fine off road and believe you me. I live in East Tennessee and I have some rough roads around where I live and the TRK handle them just fine. Also. Remember this. The Benelli TRK 502X out sells the BMW over in Europe just about every year so that tell me that it is a reliable bike. I would tell anyone who isn't afraid of a little weight to get one.

[@gordonlunna2522]

I grew up riding dirt bikes and then went to sport bikes in my 20s. My first ADV bike was a gen 1 KLR. I had a lot of good times with that bike. Torture on the highway, but very good off road. Current bike is a R1250GS Adventure. I've had it for four years and been on some really cool rides, but I'm looking to downsize for next year.

[@KosmicKorgi]

The only 2 that I could think of that was left out are the BMW 310 GS and the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401. I feel like the 401 is somewhat similar to where the Triumph 400X Scrambler is. Also its like a Cyber scrambler version of the KTM 390. lol. All and all its a great list and you are truly the best at what you do Ben. I know I have said this before but you are an inspiration to all of us older guys that want to get out and be adventurous. I wish I could have gone to the Touratex rally, it looked really awesome!

[@osxar84]

I was surprised that the 310GS didn't even make the list. I got one myself and it's pretty capable. Sure a 21" front would've been nice and slightly knobbier stock tyres too wouldn't have hurt.

[@KosmicKorgi]

@osxar84 so you would definitely recommend it? I have been eyeing that one myself.

[@skierboy85]

The only drawback to the kawasaki versys x300 is the lack of tourqe and super light and unresponsive clutch feel. The stock suspension setup is right in the sweet spot for most people. I suppose you could also fault it for the hard seat. I still think it's at least a b tier maybe even an a. Great breakdown of all the beginner bikes. Keep up the great work.

[@andrewstambaugh240]

And most off-road bikes get modded, so I'd definitely repipe, intake, and chip it - if i had one. I came really close to buying an x300, but ended up going with a dr650.

[@skierboy85]

@andrewstambaugh240 Dr650 is a solid choice. I had a first gen KLR and have been on a XR650 and I would say all 3 are great bikes, only downside I can think of is the XR on the highway is not great, but I have heard that the DRs road manners are pretty good. The biggest plus I can think of for a x300 is that they are fairly light, but just heavy and short enough to not get blown all over the place on the highway.

[@mannygarcia1810]

I have a 23 KLR 650 and a CF Moto Ibex 800 here in Texas, love them both and i actually put a deposit on the IBEX 450.

[@MontanaDirtRoads]

Love my gen 2 klr, bought it new in 18 and my first off road bike too. I've put almost 18k miles on it doing adventure trips .best bike to break out on.

[@fordesignphreshair1453]

Stoked with my 2025 450MT - I'm not a beginner, far from it, but i'm not a kid anymore, mid 50's... this has all I wanted - once I put good tires on it

[@JasonBevers]

Nice list and love the videos. My wife and I do a lot of longer road trips in the summer and this last year we picked up some more capable bikes. Both tiger 900s but she got a 23 gt pro and I got the 24 rally pro. My thought at the time was to grab something I could do both on and off road if/as needed. Id love to see a video of tips/trick for those of us clueless enough to jump in feet first. I've ridden a bit of dirt/duel sport as a youth but it's long enough ago that I really can't depend on any skills picked up back in the to day. Thanks again for all the content

[@Paulthenutter34]

I own one of the worst on your list, a Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE. It's tall, wide and heavy. I'm always conscious of where I stop because of what it is. I've test ridden and ordered a CFMoto 450MT. It's extremely easy to ride by comparison. Not intimidating, soft and plush, low and narrow between the legs. I don't entertain certain rocky technical trails on the Scrambler but after 15 minutes on the 450MT I was happily doing rocky hill climbs.

[@thomasweirs1971]

As a long legged rider, my issue is usually the seat to peg distance. The CF Moto looks awfully cramped. I had a 2018 Vstrom 650, felt that was pretty cramped so went back to a 900lb pig of a cruiser. I started watching your reviews on the Gen 3 KLR 650's but I was stuck on that 39ish HP. I went to a dealership that I have had some good experiences and he had one more 2023 KLR 650 for $4999!! He paid off the cruiser and I threw a leg over that gem and have not looked back. Plenty of power on the backroads and she'll keep you legal on the highway. Folks talk about weight but I think it feels like a bicycle after my last few rides. I bought a ton of accessories and plan on staying busy in the garage this winter. Ride safe!!

[@gasdive]

There's a tall seat option for the V-Strom that makes it much less cramped.

[@dandersonjr]

I'm not interested in any of these bikes but your video's are usually pretty entertaining so I watched it anyway. Thanks.

[@MotoCocoTV]

I hate the term beginners but it is what it is....also the bmw 310gs, suzuki 400..and for shorties the😂 xt250...(even though yours was a bust) much love ❤️ to you and the family Ben...love your videos!

[@armored-clown]

You rock Ben! Keep it up, met you at Get On Adv Fest in Sturgis this summer and you’re a great addition to the adventure/dual sport/off road riding communities. I’m almost a 100% off road trail rider on a KTM 500 EXC-F but I enjoy all of your content and it is very well done.

[@DrFerazza]

May will be 2 years of riding. I'm a big guy, wanted a bike that "fit" me and went with a Gen 3 KLR 650, based greatly on your review calling it "boring". It's actually what I was looking for and something that wouldn't run away from me. Now, me and "Possum" have had some falls and scrapes, but I love it to death. I've gone places I never considered exploring and found a new escape from the humdrums of life.

[@karisumner4709]

I recently traded my 23' CB500X for a 24' F800GS. After watching tons of ADV stuff during the ''lockdown" I sold the bagger and bought the Honda. Outstanding bike, but after much thought realized ADV riding is not a direction I will go. Nothing else to compare the CB500X to but I really did like it, and was a great transition bike from heavy baggers.

[@ShaggyCactusAZ]

I'd like to put a plug in for the Honda CRF 450 L. I started my adventure riding on a BMW 800 GS adventure. I did the Washington PDR as well as the northern section of the Utah PDR on it. I found it to be very capable, but somewhat limiting based on my skills And the weight and size of the bike. Basically, I would not take it up trails that were more challenging because I was afraid to drop it beeing out there alone. So I sold it and picked up a Honda 450 L and did both the Colorado BDR and the Arizona BDR solo and found that I had no limits. I could go anywhere and do anything with confidence.

[@wiscomoto]

I bungled this one up bad! I'm a veteran street/track guy even though I started on dirt bikes as a kid. A bunch of years ago, after reading Long Way Down, I went and found an R1100GS used and sent it. Had several off and on through the years with my street bikes. Still have an R1200GS as my main today, but I picked up a KLR about 10 years ago and realized how much easier the learning curve would have been.

[@roddyeskew3909]

Bought a secondhand Versys 300 after watching your review video from a couple of years ago. I’ve loved it so far. I went up a couple of teeth to make the gearing more highway friendly and it’s a great all arounder (highway, gravel, mountain roads, dirt/rock trails). It could definitely use a bit more ground clearance if you want to ride more gnarly stuff (namely at the engine manifold), but I’ve ridden things more chunky than what’s shown at 15:20 with no problems. Love the video as always; hope riders also realize that what doesn’t work for someone else might work for you. It’s down to what you’re looking for in a bike.

[@AT2021Rocker]

The term “Adventure Bike” is a tough one, imho. Rather it should be “bikes that you can adventure on”, because the term “adventure” means many different things depending on who you are. But your analysis is correct.

[@machupikachu1085]

If they get the gearing right, I believe the new DR4 will be the sleeper. Add a windscreen, soft bags a better seat, and a rotopack, and you are going anywhere.

[@marcusfollosco3986]

Your 👍 right 450 MT CF moto I'm going to get this bike

[@davidbethea7610]

Maybe the Honda Transalp. 750. I have one. A Very friendly ridding bike. Thanks for the great video.

[@scottychop1]

Lots of comments I hear about cheap used beginner bikes. I’d love to see you do a list of used bikes and rank them. You could even look at actual ads in the PNW so some side by side compares. As a newbie ADV rider, the money/performance/mileage research gets very tiring. Although I never trust an expert…😅

[@SuperDerrickbell]

I've got money down on a CFMOTO 450! End of February if all goes well. I'm really stoked!! Your reviews helped with the decision and makes me excited to get it.

[@ShadowVonChadwick]

I still see that KLX behind you 🙂 Mine was such a great bike after full suspension upgrade, Tank, SC Seat, & all the other minor bits n pieces. Have you noticed UNA Moto ? True beginner there. I get a bit frustrated watching at times, and jealous 🙃 Cheers. PS: I think I have watched this before, good sign for you 👍 And I'm a recycled beginner too. My brain remembers, but the body forgot. Been three years now, so a bit of confidence has returned.

[@neilmeiskey5482]

Thanks for the list. I am a beginner (street rider on and off for 50 plus years, age 75). I bought a used Honda CB 500 X with the full high level Rally RAID kit. I wish I would have started with a stock one or maybe the new Himalayan or CF Moto. The Honda with the kit is way beyond me.

[@halan236]

Phew, I'm glad I'm starting on a used 2016 F800GSA. It's kinda tall, but 500s are two small loaded with gear and my 6'2" 230lb frame.

[@sirgalah561]

I started out on an old 80s model Honda XL250 (red tank and plastics), then a newer Honda XL250 (white tank with a hideous blue seat), then a Kawasaki KLR600 (the first one with electric start), then I went BMW.. R1150GS was my first, did a ton of offroad in outback Australia, traded it on an R1200GS Adventure with the big petrol tank, but I crashed it, a provisional driver pulled oyt of a carpark without looking and I T-boned her, I did a superman over her bonnet.. Sadly my insurance wrote the bike off (I miss that bike almost as much as I missed my R1150GS).. After I healed from the crash, I went for a slightly lighter bike and bought a second hand F650GS.. I've had it for 15 years now.. I'm liking the look of that new 450 Royal Enfield because I'm getting old and am looking at maybe something a bit more simple to ride.. I can't be bothered with gadgets and fangles anymore.. That 450 looks like a retirement bike for me... What do you think?

[@RonnieNightDive]

I did 4000 miles across America on my Triumph Scrambler 400x. With a few minor upgrades it’s totally doable and a lot of fun.

[@BIBuildy]

Wow, that's awesome! I love my 400x. You probably upgraded the suspension I'm guessing?

[@RonnieNightDive]

@ no. Suspension is the same. I added a 15t sprocket. I did all US highways and back roads. No interstates from Knoxville to Nashville to Natchez to Lafayette to Austin to Midland to AbQ to Clovis to Lawton to OKC to Tulsa, Branson, Memphis, Nashville, and back home.

[@BIBuildy]

@@RonnieNightDive Absolutely cool, that must have been a blast! Memories for a lifetime, no doubt. Wishing you great rides!

[@RonnieNightDive]

@ I’m planning many more adventures. No doubt.

[@swamp033127]

XR650l. I bought one new April of 23. I have a little under 23,000 miles on it now. Extremely fun and reliable and very easy to work on and maintain.

[@josephrockey2000]

Thanks for the rundown. I have a cruiser, but live by a ton of trails and think I might like to try that. Keep it shiny up, Dork. Love the channel.

[@Sleepykek]

I have an old KLR and a new Himalayan 450. Love them both and totally agree with your placement of them both in those tiers for beginners.

[@louispaulter8733]

The new RE Him. 450 is a great MC, ( & so is CFMoto 450 ) but low # of dealerships compared to the 3 Japanese dealers, and fewer mods, fewer & cheaper spare parts compared to MCs on the markets for decades as compared to Himi new design/ motor took it off my list of a poor man’s ( me ! ) Adventure MCs. But if I win a lottery…. LOL !!! PS - the scary elephant in the room for me is the crazy high prices to do Valve checks / resets costing $1000s - YIKES !!!

[@djangounhinged7634]

I bought a 450MT as soon as they were available here in the Philippines. Great bike - suits fine as we have few highways or high-speed capable roads. No need for 600+ CC here. In fact, here we have the option of the Suzuki VStrom 250 SX - I was about to test ride that when the 450MT popped up instead - the twin cylinder advantage was a no-brainer.

[@kialmiart5928]

@@djangounhinged7634 hey kabayan, what about after market spare parts, its chinese right?

[@iridium771]

I personally ride a WR250R that the previous owner modified with (among others) a windshield and a larger gas tank, making it a pretty similar option to a 300L rally and it's never disappointed me so far. Very worth considering ADV'd out dual sports as an option depending on how much tarmac you'll be riding.

[@Dansk55]

Just got a 450rl. Can't wait for the weather to get better.

[@blank2832]

Remember folks it's a personal opinion and for me this list are pretty accurate and reasonable. *I'm a 5' 2"(156cm) CFMoto 450MT owners I had it set at high setup(820mm) and not a problem with all the training I had.

[@graemecasorso8851]

So glad you gave the tip of the hat to the ol' KLR! Perfectly placed on your list...in my opinion as well!

[@FlatBrokeAdventures]

Hey Dork Man cool video with a lot of info. I've had my CF Moto 450MT since late June and Love it. I've been riding 7 years and this is my 1st adventure bike. I did a 256km (about 170 mi)) ride 3 days ago. I was with 2 Nordon 901's and only held them up due to my lack of off road skill. We scaled a mountain with large erosion mounds and crossed some rocky bottom rivers/streams. On road it will sit at 120kph all day even though its doing 7000rpm

[@mutstang66]

Iv got the 300L. Love it. Very capable offroad. Good video

[@Forest_Rebel]

Really considering the Kove 800x Rally for my 2nd bike for ADV-use in a year or two, moving on from a 450 Himalayan as my first bike. Himmy is a great bike and has really helped move my skills along, on and offroad.

[@donnieyoung2774]

Cool video. I disagree that these are "beginner" bikes. Im 64, been riding over 50 of those. Ive had the big adv bikes in the past. They got to be too tall and heavy. Ive had a Honda Rally for a couple years, did the MABDR on it. Currently have a '22 CB500X. Just did a cross country tour of the U.S. on it. 44 days, 19 states, 9k miles. Great bike, sketchy off road. Deposit down on Ibex 450. Thanks Ben !

[@DorkintheRoad]

Good for beginners does not mean bad for experienced riders Some bikes are just good

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

I know many old guys who are down sizing to small ADV bikes to keep riding. The idea of dropping a 1250GS, even in the garage, is becoming untenable. The real shame is the Big Moto cartel was finally forced to offer smaller ADV bikes but designed and marketed them as beginner bikes to get new customers on the upgrade path to a bloated and expensive mid size or full size ADV bike as soon as their credit would allow the upgrade. The Big Moto cartel was slow to realize that older riders are downsizing and we typically have more discretionary income and are willing to pay more for a lighter weight bike with nice features. We're only now starting to see higher quality small displacement ADV bikes, ironically, because Chinese manufacturers disrupted the ADV bike market. The F450GS that recently premiered at EICMA looks very nice.

[@J8zzy]

CRF300 Rally now for third snowy and icy winterseason. I have modified it and like how it goes everywhere. Rally Raid suspensions modified Air intake and Elektronic Jet Kit are the best mods. Fun factor is great 24/7/365 in every weather. ❄️☃️🤍💙🇫🇮🤍🏁👍🎅 Ho ho hoo... THANKS FOR THIS SAME ADVICE YEARS A GO SIR DORK!

[@searchingfor6thgear44]

We started adventure touring on a 2008 and a 2013 KLR 650. Cost of both bikes together, just under $6K. So much info out there on maintenance and upgrades. Easy to work on. Heavy. Underpowered for the weight and the highway head shake can be a bit disconcerting. I have to agree with your placement. I think it’s too heavy and the suspension is too soft for a true dual sport, as I define one. After picking up the KLR a few times, the CF Moto (or something like it) is what I’ve felt should be the ideal beginner adv bike.

[@caleroby9483]

Solid list.! The KLR.... Yea, a go to recommendation of mine. Heavyish so limiting for some. New motorcycle rider i met just got himself a 2019 KLR for $5,500 and fitted out well, clean too. He's 6'1" and will fit perfectly. The Scram and Him 411's are my other recommendations for those smaller of stature.. Above bikes are Sooooo Goood! Whether new or seasoned rider.

[@CaptBucket]

I have been considering a ADV bike as i have been looking at something more road comfortable than my KLX300 (Fantastic bike btw). It is good to hear opinions on bikes as it helps me stay informed. Although it would be interesting to have a list for those exiting Duel sport and moving to ADV.

[@Colin.Gilroy172]

I’ve been wanting to get a crf300l rally for about six months. This would have been my first motorcycle and my spec Miata racing budget has kept me from saving up enough to buy a brand new bike. Tomorrow I am picking up a CRF230m with dual sport tires. Super stoked to get my first bike and I think this will be a better intro to the hobby rather than spending a year’s savings. Seems like a good machine for me as it will spend 80% of its time at Sebring, Daytona, Barber, Road Atlanta, and Roebling as my pit bike I’ll try to take one or two riding trips loading up the race trailer with a few bikes and have some fun with the boys. Not super interested in riding on road but having the option is why I didn’t want a dirtbike.

[@sustenance5300]

This was a great video, had most of the information I was looking for . I would have liked to see the BMW g310 GS and the Suzuki V-strom 250 on this list somewhere

[@NunyaBusiness...]

Glad to see your channel just cranking along. Over 132K subs now! Well done, Sir.

[@dougB4454]

I like my CRF300l Rally because it is light and reliable. I can easily put it in the back of my F150. Plus the 75 mpg works for me.

[@lloyddsouza4544]

Papa Dork Great video. I appreciate your insights and attention to detail .I'm looking forward to your video about the upcoming adventure bikes like BMW 450GS, Kawasaki KLE 500 & Suzuki DRZ4S.

[@mnap89]

Suzuki announced price and its very expensive. I think more then 9k usd.

[@davidrawlings3460]

Make sure if you like the cfmoto 450 you sit on it for a while. It sqaushes my man parts, With that sloped seat, which moves back and forwards about 5mm. The himalayan feels a lot more comfortable riding position. And better made. And we don't have enough CFMOTO garages in the uk. And that effects warranty if not serviced with a cf dealer.

[@tylertoole3058]

I love your videos. Been riding dirt bikes since i was a kid but have very little experience on pavement. I'm going to try some adventure bikes out and see what fits me best. But i love that klr 650 just from everything I've watched. Reliability is important plus I'm 6'2 280 pounds. I don't know if the cf moto 450 or the Honda 500nx are big enough bikes for me. And i want something i can hit the road with but i don't want to kill myself either or my pocket book 😅. Thanks for all your videos i love it.

[@patbramble8958]

Im a dirtbike rider. Been riding for 35yrs. Still ride a KTM 500 XCW and love this bike. I also have a Harley Road Glide that I love. So my off road and on road experience is pretty good and can ride with anyone. SO, what adventure bike would you suggest?