2020 Dual Sport Shootout - Dirt Bike Magazine

#dirtbike #offroad #motorcycle #adventure
The 2020 Dual Sport Shootout by Dirt Bike Magazine. Beta vs Husqvarna vs SWM vs KTM vs Honda. After all this time, we admit: we still don’t know what the heck a dual-sport bike is supposed to be. Manufacturers and riders use the term freely, as if everyone has the same interpretation, yet the bikes sold under that banner are wildly diverse. Just look at the current 500 category. The Beta 500RR-S, Husqvarna FE501S, KTM 500EXC and SWM RS500 represent a broad range of designs and capabilities. We’ve gathered those four to explore their differences and also included the Honda CRF450L as the nearest candidate offered by Japan.
All five bikes are fully street legal in all 50 states. All are quiet and clean, as defined by the EPA and various state authorities. The main point of contention, of course, is dirt versus street bias. These are the most dirt-oriented dual-sport bikes offered in years, but even they cover a wide range of capabilities. For 2020, three of the five are new. The Beta, KTM and Husqvarna have redesigned frames, new bodywork and significant engine changes. The Honda and SWM are completely unchanged, although they were new models in 2019. Here’s how they line up.
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[@KTMsteve]

Kinda wish they would compare the machines on the basis of basic maintenance requirements. It’s certainly a factor to consider when choosing your next bike.

[@Dashriprock4]

Then the SWM would win hands down

[@aakashk530]

@@Dashriprock4 is it really the most reliable? Genuinely don’t know about brands like swm or beta

[@Dashriprock4]

@@aakashk530 I have a 2008 Husqvarna and it has been absolutely bulletproof and I have beat that bike hard. The serviceability is dramatically easier than my KTM.

[@TraveladvRajanSRai]

Husq has long intervals

[@jdirt1982]

Which one of these bikes would be best to deliver gay porno and perkeset around provo ??? I'm really cleaning up out here, but these biden gas prices are killing me...

[@88Heckenlively]

It's funny how I go straight to the comments before I even watch the video. You guys crack me up 🤘

[@brockhalter3564]

The most valuable part of the dual purpose...the license plate. hahahahaha.

[@scottclark1975]

First thing you shorten.

[@OGPokey151]

I have a CRF450L all uncorked. VORTEX, full exhaust, smog delete, thermostat delete etc. What a different machine. I love it

[@j.hyland1486]

Im curious, why delete the thermostat? Im assuming to get as much coolant flow when offroad keep the temps down. But what about when on road? Runs too cold no?

[@fynn8252]

​@@j.hyland1486 I left mine alone because it keeps the engine at a constant operating temp and limits flow by giving the coolant more time to cool in the radiators. I never have to worry about engine temp management because the thermostat takes care of everything.

[@romanurbom2425]

I have one just like that too yay

[@coderedcamaro4812]

The dualsport sector of motorcycle riding is on fire!!!

[@ThomasFunnyCarGuy]

Tdub life

[@anthonyadams9520]

Yeah.. Dual sport also can be convert into Supermoto... Love it

[@youtubeaccount5153]

But they are overpriced.

[@tbahry202]

I've owned a 2014 KTM 350 exc-f, a 2017 Beta 390 rr-s, a 2019 Beta 430 rr-s, and now a Honda CRF450L. After changing out the exhaust system, and installing a Vortex EFI, the Honda is, by far my favorite. Why? Because is is the best balanced for dirt AND hiway, easily has the best stock suspension (closed cartridge). I can take rough lines with the Honda I would stay away from on any of the other bikes. The Vortex lets the bike rip, and it has great torque and powerful rev-out. The quality of build is superior also, especially the wiring systems. The very conservative Honda maintenance schedule is proving to be overkill, most riders are seeing no or little valve movement, and no problems at all with more mileage being logged on. I pulled the excess sound plastic, and with the exhaust change the weight dropped about 15 pounds (making it similar to how a KTM or Beta equips). This bike I plan to keep for a while.

[@zzxx33mh]

You nail it✌️🌠.. #soloride_zx

[@Jakalwarrior]

Not gonna lie, they lost me at launch with the maintenance schedule. I put up with the extra weight of my 690 for reduced stress. Super high maintenance bikes make me avoid riding them, especially when they get near an interval. Also, my 690 is approaching the mileage that Honda says their bike needs a complete rebuild :( I would probably damn near park it at that point out of dread.

[@Abstract180]

T Bahry I did the exact same thing to my 450L. I love this bike since the pipe and ECU swap. It’s rips the highway easily, low vibrations, and I can take it on hard single track. It’s does it all, I love this Honda. And I own a KTM 250xc for the woods. Honda all day for the dual sport!

[@zzxx33mh]

@@Abstract180 windshield will be good add for Highway..

[@DIRT2021]

@@Jakalwarrior I agree. My 690 is a better 'dual sport' then any of these.

[@garygrinkevich6971]

I hope your paying your production crew well these shots, edits, and motion graphics look slick AF, makes me want to grind up 10k and buy a bike.

[@jeffstinchcomb9480]

Right???!!!??

[@kavik526town2]

10K?? I thought they were 14k now!!!

[@jonbooth4416]

I've had lots of bikes in the past 30 years. The last one I had was a 2016 Beta 430RR with LED lights all around. Hands down the best bike I have ever ridden for an "everything" bike. I swore if I bought another bike it would be a Beta or nothing. They are just simply amazing machines!

[@bhenderson7651]

Did you have any trouble in sand on your Beta?

[@drott150]

So you're a Beta boy? got it.

[@ka4172]

This Betas use the good old KTM EXC engines.

[@JohnWilliams-ig4ts]

@@drott150 yeah me too what’s it to ya buddy 😂

[@DavyRo]

I honestly wouldn't care which one of these I got, I would love anyone of them.

[@thatstyte]

Yeah idk, I still think the DR and XR 650's are the kings of dualsport. Bulletproof with minimal maintenance, as comfortable on the freeway as on the trail, cheap, and far more capable than most riders are skilled.

[@RantzBizGroup]

The problem with the DR and XR is weight.

[@michaeldixon6619]

Dr is Paris to Dakar bikes

[@Bush_Tucker]

The bikes in the video aren't dual sports they are enduro race bikes some of them even say enduro on the bloody plastics these guys are hopeless

[@samueljlarson]

A wr250r is lighter, handles better and is more reliable. Re gear it and the power is there for off-road and it will cruise comfortably at 65 on the highway. Owned all the Japanese dualsports and found the Wr best so far.

[@benmartin6476]

I just got back from a trip Brought my brand new husqvarna te300i and my dr650se and that Suzuki is nice because it’s a dual sport but it’s a freaking tank and bottom gears are way too fast and well it’s a 1980’s technology tank of a dual sport I’m selling it and going to buy a beta or Sherco dual sport. I’d go Husqvarna but my only choice in Canada is the 701

[@thekingoftheworld9553]

Woah! I remember when dirt bikes where the cheapest type of bike you could buy! 10k for a dirt bike! Crazy!

[@bcad4066]

17k for an Africa Twin!

[@dennysugardo9398]

10k usd?

[@daveritschel3599]

Fucking depressing keep it..the motorcycle stealerships wonder why they haven't rebounded🙄

[@petergriffin4629]

I don't know which time you remember, but dirtbikes were never cheap. The Japanese built some cheap ass Enduros, Back in the day, but at no point in time was a dirtbike cheap.

[@thebigchungus3222]

Must not understand how inflation or technology changes wonder why a old harley would cost $2000 and now it cost $28k same thing. Cars too 🤷‍♂️

[@pinktacotuesday4573]

Just bought a 2020 exc500 and I absolutely love it!!!

[@ka4172]

All these bikes called here "race ready competition bikes" ! A Dual Sport doesent need every 500 miles oil change (Oiltanks are very small around "1 quart" ),every 40 Hours change the piston,crankshaft bearings . This are part of the maintance plan for this bikes here in Europe .DR650 i called a Dual Sport you can travel on the street 200miles or 100 of miles through the Desert and maybe some thougher trails. Dual for street and dirt use. Dual Sport was first named by Suzuki DR 350S 1990 (like i can remember).with passenger pegs and possibel to carry stuff for camping. Blinker and mirrors doesent make them Dual Sports.

[@bertbroeder1832]

Dirt Bike should make a test with: Honda XR650L Honda CRF250L Kawasaki KLX250 Suzuki DR650SE Suzuki DRZ400 Yamaha WR250R Did I name all those last real dual sport in the US? You can't buy none of this new in the EU anymore.

[@fredtracy3931]

...and better off just getting a Suzuki DR-Z 400!

[@Solar_Daddy]

Ive had 2 ktm 500s, changed oil every 10 hrs. 1.5qt oil tank and did a top end at 250.

[@hammerhead2869]

Personally 2 of those bikes would interest me if I were on the market at the minute... The Beta for its shear off-road performance. That thing is a beast and a beauty. The SWM for its balance between road and off-road. Plus with its low price you could add a few accessories and make it a perfectly acceptable lightweight ADV motorcycle for the cost of the KTM/HVA. For me that's what a dual-sport motorcycle is all about.

[@hammerhead2869]

@J Bar True that... I totally agree with you. Indeed those bikes that you guys call in the USA "dual purpose" in this video are what us European people would call "Enduro" motorcycles... Pure racebred fire breathing off-road machines ! Motocross bikes with a reg plate and a headlight basically... A DRZ 400, a CRF 250L, a WRR 250, a XR 400 or a TW 200 are what we European would call a proper "dual purpose" motorcycle. Motorcycles that are mechanically simple and robust for extended service intervals, reliability and serviceability on the side of the road. Bikes that are not too heavy and reasonably powered (or not too under-powered) to be equally at ease on the road and off-road. In other words bikes you could take round the world in a heartbeat, take offroad and even use daily if you ever wanted to. The bikes on this shootout are Enduros. And they must be equally exhilarating to ride as they must be exhausting to ride. I've got a 450 myself and that thing wears me out over a long day ride... And it's not about the power. It's got loads, arguably more than I can handle off-road if I want to go fast. But it's got lots of torque and I can use that to cruise comfortably at moderate speeds off-road. The things is that 450 vibrates so much it is really is exhausting on long rides. Hence a bigger single cylinder engine is likely to be even worse. Still I have to admit I'd like to have the SWM or Beta though for the reasons I mentioned in my previous post.

[@hammerhead2869]

@J Bar nice bikes... Since you mention them I assume you own them all or have owned them all before, am I correct ? As for me I have several bikes as well for various purposes... A HVA WRE 125 (dual-purpose 2str), a HVA WR 250 (2str Enduro), a CCM GP 450 (4str ADV) and a SVS 650 (my daily commuter street bike). And for as surprising as it may seem, the one that I have the most fun with is the 125. Over the years I've transformed that 125 into an ultra lightweight ADV machine. I've owned it for well over a decade now and done up to a thousand miles in a week with it when I was going for road trips with all my camping gear. It's lightweight, nimble, reliable and surprisingly fast in tight corners on mountain passes... I absolutely love it ! Riding it on a narrow twisty road is just so much fun !

[@saltyfloridaman7163]

The SWM is 90% of what anyone could ever ask for in a dual sport for 30% less than its competition in this video. The only other bike that's a threat to it in terms of quality, performance, and price is the GPX FSE 450R

[@worstteammate4377]

Performance? Beta. Durability? Honda. Price? SWM. Winner? KTM ? ? ??? ?????

[@jeffstinchcomb9480]

By far one of the best analysis / reviews I've ever seen. Far better than some of the chin-strap camera stuff that is all over the interenet. (Don't get me wrong... I dig those too.) I loved watching these guys carve up these trails. Thanks.

[@nakachinjah7240]

can someone please explain the difference between enduro, trail, motocross, dual sports??? i thought that all dirt bikes are the same, i live in a third world country, i wish someday i saw atleast on in real life, since i was three or four i was just so obssed with dirt bikes,,,

[@photographerjonathan]

I wish at the end of this video that they asked all the riders which bike they would buy with there own money. I think that is the best conclusion you can get from a comparison video. instead of this bike is good at this, and this other bike is good at that. which leaves you having to weigh a bunch of things you can't really weigh because you haven't personally ridden any of them.

[@eastbaymauiboy]

You know you got a quiet bike when you hear more mechanical sounds than exhaust from 30 feet away. The beta sounded like it had some thump though

[@flyhinski]

They do! I was with someone that has a 350 race edition Beta and when he starts it up if you are within 6 feet of the back of him you can feel the thump in your chest.!

[@Hugeroost]

they forgot to mention one thing, maintenance, the KTM needs as much as a motocross bike, constance, much more than any bike on here. The Beta hands down best bike here

[@motominded5275]

Wrong, service intervals are MUCH longer than moto bike....most guys go 15 to 20 hrs between oil changes

[@kavik526town2]

@@motominded5275 thats not bad at all

[@jakobcrawford2753]

​@@motominded5275 yup! I change mine every 15 hrs per manual spec. have over 5k miles on my 2017 model. it sadly has sat for a year though because of life/work 😭.

[@jasenhicks]

OMG, using the same tires across all bikes. What a concept! I hate it when bikes get dinged in comparison reviews based on something the owner is going to change as soon as they get it. Thanks for the apples to apples comparison.

[@Kickstart500]

I just bought a Ktm 500 exc f two days ago.. I’ll watch this video when I can stop riding and staring at it for 20 minutes

[@zzxx33mh]

You can equipped it as Adventure one..

[@evanr648]

I envy you lol A month later, any complaints/criticisms?

[@sproesser1]

Maybe you should change your name to "Electric Start" then! 😁

[@jordanJohnn]

It’s been four months! How’s the bike treating you how many hours are you at? Any work done yet ? Let us know ;)

[@garybrice3941]

@@sproesser1 Right!

[@gonzo5738]

Love my DR650 but that KTM has me drooling 🤤

[@jamesbrown8173]

You would have to rebuild a ktm 2 or 3 times a year. These are not duel sport bikes, they are enduro bikes.

[@br6489]

Yamaha should really build a WR450r.

[@boomer8393]

The first manufacturer to build a 450 Rally with multiple fuel tanks and rally-style fairing (wind protection) will sell out immediately.

[@wackophobe2827]

ktm and honda already do, ktm builds like 80 a year and they sell out like nothing

[@KTMcaptain]

@@wackophobe2827 they meant a mass produced model...

[@wackophobe2827]

@@KTMcaptain Honda I think does, dont @ me tho, but they do sell them

[@A1.CLiiiPz]

Im digging that SMW thoe...the price tag is one of the most attractive things about it ! Lol

[@sickunit2096]

There should be a back to back test done with a CRF450L and a CRF450L with a Vortex ECU. The Vortex drastically changes the engine characteristics. I hated my CRF on tight trails. Now its way more fun and rideable! Also, the headlight is outstanding. I got a 2019 for $8600 OTD after Honda offered rebates. I had to jump on it!

[@jamesleighton3516]

yeah, after all of that considered, and pondering over a 501 ($12999) and a beta 390rrs, ($11600) i just put a deposit down for a 2020 crf450L for $9999 CAD! (MSRP $11999 CAD.) i could not say no. i dont want to be doing engine overhauls every 90 or 135 hours! ill go with a vortex ecu with map switch, yoshi rs4 full exhaust, some new tires, barkbusters and 32000kms rebuilds, thanks.

[@stevebuckmaster13]

CRF 450L Reliable AF !

[@kanon0853]

This review was clearly anti-aftermarket. "You may want to change out the mirrors and turn signals." Wtf does that even mean? People actually keep those shitty mirrors. And for turn signals, shit, I rode five years without them on my last bike. The dirt bike world has gotten soft.

[@magnetsignstimmins8627]

Where abouts are you in Canada to have gotten a deal like that? I’d love to use it as an example at my local dealership as they still have a 2020 450L. Thanks

[@robocombo]

Noise is the biggest enemy of trail riding. Quiet bikes save hobbies.

[@nikolasgibson3438]

THANK YOU for putting good tires on all of them

[@jeffz2353]

Truly an excellent test & review. Your magazine & videos are top notch & the very best. Good job once again guys.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Two points 1. 2 different size safari tanks go on the SWM & a IMS tank - both that also were used for the Husky TE 510 2. The CRF 450 L unlike its smaller brothers the 250 L & rally only has a small engine oil capacity and that’s what let’s it down for long why Duel sport miles . As oil changes are every 700 miles . The RS 500 had a large 1.6 lt oil capacity and I will Agee is a long distance TRUE DUAL SPORT bike that can be fitted with the SWM 650 Wheels- rear Cush hub and the screen as well . It’s the perfect replacement for the trusty old DRZ 400 ( and lighter ) plus fuel injection and that extra gear .

[@postmortemspasm]

what is an rs 500?

[@francescoporcari8597]

@@postmortemspasm SWM RS 500

[@danielryle5596]

Being an owner of an swm rs500 2019 I agree mostly with what your saying though the bike is a little bit behind on quality control vs the drz the obvious one is plastics with no aftermarket option unless going full husqvarna there is a few shit parts on this bike from factory though throw a $1000 at it and there is replacement options to overcome this! What I do find disappointing is swm have really done nothing with this bike since husqvarna take over, it would make a great drz replacement, they rave on about the kyb suspension but the last year model tc510 2010 had this they have used there own plastics which are shit quality and the 2015 to 2018 were down right ugly and left the tight ratio transmission in it which I find strange, clearly they don't seem to understand the market for this bike!

[@michaelhutt4902]

... where are normally priced 350's or else ... bought my XT 600 in 1992, never left me .... 43 hp, 300 lbs, 14 ltrs Tank and did cost 3000 Dollars ... there are no choices on the market for a 'fun bike' ... only one left is a used Kawasaki KLX 250 ... I miss those ... fun we had :-) ...sorry for bad english, I'm from Germany :-) ...

[@carlki]

Ditto. Same bike and year. Still runs great!

[@flashdrz]

The KTM, Husky and Beta do offer performance above anything else. Suspension and motor wise both. But none of them will offer the reliability of a good ole Suzuki DRZ400.

[@SlowishActual]

I'm a simple man. I see a DR-Z reference, I upvote.

[@driftke70]

@@SlowishActual I ride an rmx450 as a dual sport and I feel like it bridges this gap well.

[@crimzikk]

You must ride in a horse and cart to work too

[@Uninfluenceable]

DRZ is a completely different category of bike. If the KTM is an M3, then the DRZ is a Camry. My point is that they are not direct competitors. I would say the SWM is kind of like a WRX, M3 performance (and reliability) but for Camry price...

[@ADVlife287]

The “Camry and Corolla” (dr650 & drz400) are no where near these bikes. Honestly for 95% of people the “Camry or Corolla” of motorcycles will do 95% of what you actually would want to do. I ride one of the mentioned, and previously owned a crf450x. No longer own the 450

[@spacetruckin6555]

At half the initial price, and with half the maintenance requirements, the DRZ is still the clear winner. You don't need a better bike, you need a better rider. "When Suzuki gets around to updating it, forget about it!" --Christopher Moltisanti

[@Jakalwarrior]

I went with the KTM 690. A lot more expensive, but also very low maintenance and a ton of power. Both are a lot heavier than the bikes in this comparison though.

[@ThatGuy-qg4ww]

Drz is slow

[@postmortemspasm]

@@Jakalwarrior low maintenence untile the head gasket gives up or the rocker arms explode

[@connor3288]

Are you sure he said that, T?

[@icatenej]

There is a mistake in description of SWM... SWM 500 is not based on 2006 Husqvarna 450, but is virtually the same bike as Husqvarna TE 510ie from 2009 (last generation of "Italian" Husqvarnas, before BMW acquired Husqvarna) apart from different suspension. Many components of bodywork as well as complete engine (which means all engine parts) can be swapped between these two. For example, you can put factory Husqvarna TE 510 single muffler Arrow exhaust system on SWM without single modification. With this price point advantage, IF service network and parts are available, I think SWM is a great deal.

[@Davidkxf]

I though the version was a Te 511

[@dannuthals7045]

One thing that is not mentioned is the basic maintenance and wrench time that you need for these bikes. I own a 2020 KTM 500 EXC-F and a CRF450RL. While both are outstanding bikes, you have to remember that when you buy a KTM that you are buying a race bike. These bikes perform the best, BUT THEY REQUIRE MUCH MORE WRENCH TIME than a Honda to keep them running well. That's just a fact. KTM are built across their line to be the best, fastest, race bikes. Honda's are always built with reliability and dependability at the top of their priority list. The older that I get, the more that I appreciate Honda's dependability.

[@erixlast6020]

@@revarmstrong beta is ktm

[@erixlast6020]

@@revarmstrong sory, old betas used exc motors i guess, gas gas is new ktm, branding is crazy this days

[@flatman]

How the swm didn't win is beyond me. With the difference in price you could almost have two of them for one ktm

[@oscarbear7498]

I was thinking this too

[@jeffestrada6857]

That SWM is very impressive!! For the price I think best value 👍

[@dickheadbrian]

I tried like hell to buy one two months ago. Not Possible. ? Maybe soon

[@garageliving3658]

Sucks being a short rider at 5'6". got the crf250l but I'm super happy with it..... wish it could wheelie better and handle bigger jumps though. Havent changed gearing yet, but its next on the list

[@ThomasFunnyCarGuy]

Tw200

[@leonwelch3128]

All Betas can be ordered with a 2" lower ride height. And they're 37 seat is already lower than KTM/Husky

[@PatWendorf]

I'm the same height and and ride a stock height 450L and YZ250X (even taller). You won't flat foot them, but you really shouldn't need to.

[@sarahdell4042]

The beta xtrainer is tiny.

[@romydomdom]

I'm 5'7". Ride a Beta 500 with a lowering link Handlebar riser and low profile seat. It feels pretty good for me. I think the newer models are a bit taller though.

[@brianmorrison9066]

Pretty soon bikes will be 20k usd Isn't that the same 650l honda sold 15 years ago for just under 6k?

[@pkbaker100]

I mean inflation does exist but I get what you are saying, close to 10k is crazy for a machine you are supposed to beat on!

[@thevtadventure1062]

I like the SWM but I would be worried about parts and dealers....

[@Uninfluenceable]

95% of the old Italian Husky parts are interchangeable, and are readily available for order from any KTM dealer. The longest I have had to wait for a super obscure part was 10 days to ship from Austria (this was pre-covid)

[@Snide01]

@@Uninfluenceable Pre plan-demic

[@alexfrankl7861]

Heaps of parts , no dramas

[@alabamatoy]

Virtually no mention of maintenance. Will these things require a top end rebuild after a hundred hours, or a thousand hours, or will they go forever like my old XR650? What about oil change requirements, will I hafta change the oil during a multiday ride?

[@michaeldixon6619]

Nothing is as good as old school

[@koul_2482]

You can get power or low maintenance, you only get one

[@xXRedEyedStrangerXx]

Buy a brand new one run it for years and years doing the basics and sell it to someone and repeat. Worked many times for my family and I, never a problem with ktm

[@vespers119]

That's why street bikes have 4 times the power and ned an oil change every 10000km instead of every 15h i guess.

[@koul_2482]

@@vespers119 um don't know if you're being sarcastic or not, but sport bikes weigh twice the amount as dual sports. Its basically a small car engine in a motorcycle frame.

[@rudydalessandro1094]

The SWM looks great and an excellent prize.

[@csbalazs01]

Rudy D'Alessandro I own one. Great bike if you are experienced dirt bike rider. However for beginners is a bit heavy.

[@rudydalessandro1094]

@@csbalazs01 thanks

[@drfeelgood5870]

They also produce a supermoto bikes.

[@trenthaddock]

@@csbalazs01 where did you find a dealer

[@csbalazs01]

@@trenthaddock in Spain :-)

[@wadesworld746]

Awesome bikes, but I'll stick with my Yamaha WR450f. Great video!

[@jeffreymoran6234]

I'll take them all, put them on my tab lol

[@sebastianbarreto5364]

the guy riding the honda was absolutely sending it!

[@cashmeeks4697]

That’s what us Honda people do

[@archery30x]

Well ya it’s a Honda

[@kennethtemple4448]

@@cashmeeks4697 1¹¹

[@Adioownz1]

@@cashmeeks4697 Honda nation brother 😤

[@lukefish7562]

Yep! Got a 450RL and loving it.

[@dudleyfecht3364]

I love my 2019 Beta 500RR-S

[@jakobcrawford2753]

the introduction to this video lifts my spirits and brings back a lot of good riding memories.

[@deborahchesser7375]

It’s worth the effort to run rim locks, trust me.

[@jasonr428]

The Husqvarna, no question.

[@johnnyturbo8460]

AND THE WINNER IS........ THE SUZUKI DR650!!

[@Bug_Man_Semo]

We all know the real winner of any vehicle category is a Honda. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@johnnyturbo8460]

@Dad Bod BMX nah. Not for luxury, off road trucks, towing, exotic etc... they are good, but definitely not any vehicle category

[@Redwood414]

That has 35 horsepower LMAO

[@johnnyturbo8460]

@@Redwood414 still wins.

[@johnnyturbo8460]

@Bug_Man_Semo Nah, their side by sides are not that great, honestly.

[@woodsrider117]

What never gets mentioned for some reason is that Beta RS get a ONE YEAR warranty. The rr’s get a full 6 months and it’s a real warranty too. It’s part of the buy.

[@SeanSR]

You need an updated video with the GPX fse 450 included in this.

[@dopesquatch]

My beta's blinker melted off lol

[@wesleycotter1853]

dopesquatch ruler of all buddy of mine just got a 350 beta. Essentially a trail bike they slapped lights on. After one ride they all fell off and he had to put aftermarket lights on 😂 still a sick fucking bike

[@dopesquatch]

@@wesleycotter1853 i bought the off road bike subframe looks way better and moves the taillight up under the tail still room for a plate and no blinkers... i just use hand signals now... they also gave me 4 new blinkers for my bike that are shorter from beta bc they are aware of the problem now. I posted a shitty video of mine

[@jpccc7643]

Mine fell off on first ride😝 Other than that, perfect bike

[@daryllmroberts7958]

i bought a guys 2019 crf250l,,he bought the beat,,also melted its blinker

[@TheFirstShotCounts]

i bought a 2020 430 and luckily haven't melted it off yet

[@FreeAgentDaBest]

When I bought my first Dual Sport in 2014, to me my only options were basically 250cc bikes with the exception of a Suzuki DRZ which is a 400cc... these 500’s didn’t exist, as far as I was aware. The options I knew about and had to choose from were the Yamaha WR250R, Honda CRF250L, Kawasaki KLX 250, Suzuki DRZ 400... and I think that’s pretty much it that I can recall. I ultimately went with the Yamaha WR250R as it seemed to be the most off road worthy out of the bunch and was always at the top of reviewers and moto vloggers lists.

[@postmortemspasm]

KTM have been making the 520/525/530/500 since the start of the century

[@fuckyuashol]

Kind of sounds like Beta won,... just afraid to tell the truth. Can’t have KTM/ Husky mad

[@David-my2tv]

@JMax 01 husqvarna and gas gas are owned by ktm but beta isn't.

[@ManicMotoAZ]

Beta is not owned by KTM. where did you get that crackhead idea?

[@americandirtrider7662]

Beta is smoothest, fastest, best suspended, nicest features and components, better tires ..... and KTM wins 🤔

[@pedereriksson7]

@@americandirtrider7662 Well...not sure about the suspension. Beta's got linkage, remember? Not my choice. KTM is the only one with PDS (linkage-less) which, for me, is a huge major factor for choosing the KTM.

[@americandirtrider7662]

@@pedereriksson7 Yes I remember that Beta has linkage, I see it every day in my garage.. To each there own, and for different purposes. But remember that KTM runs linkage in SX, MX, MXGP, Dakar, Baja, etc. Riders like myself aviod KTMs PDS intentionally, because I've never liked their progression rate. The linkless is cool for getting over 2 foot logs, but that is probably less than a fraction of a percent of the riding a lot of people do. In regards to front suspension, I think open cartridge is inferior to closed; so the Honda has all these bikes beat in that department. But my original point was that the reviewer likes how the KTM is better than it was last year, but it doesn't seem it was the best at anything. Whereas the Beta has best in class with a few things. Seems strange. Again, everyone is different and rides in a different manner. So if the PDS is your thing, I'm happy KTM makes a bike for you 👍

[@otter7467]

Service intervals is why i opted for the 701e. It was larger than what I was really looking for but I'm happy so far.

[@joshsmith9058]

Like riding a tank off road...?

[@AddToCartEtsySuccess]

the beta comes with a voyager?!?

[@dg1019]

They do, stock

[@Velolion]

The Husky (and KTM) DOES have a charcoal canister...it’s hidden inside the frame member underneath the steering head. California even made KTM retrofit the canister (and all the other emissions crap) to the “dedicated offroad” ‘20 500 XCF-W and FE 501 bikes when they landed here last fall, which is why they were delayed a couple months in getting to the dealers’ showroom floors.

[@billallen4793]

Is the charcoal can removable??....from Wyoming USA 🔫🤠🇺🇸p.s stay safe and healthy everybody GOD BLESS OUR COUNTRY

[@MR.TOYBOX]

Why any Manufacture gets pushed around and bullied by California is beyond me. Time for this Manufactures to give CALIFORNIA the MIDDLE FINGER! California is destroying the Car scene across America and there coming for our bikes next. CALIFORNIA needs to be labeled as a Sponsor of TERRORISM. That state has been terrorizing its own people for decades.

[@remygarato4268]

What do ya call the xr600 the original dualie and still the best .these bikes wont be around in 20 years

[@johnhenson8244]

I wouldn’t be surprised if the 450l hangs around for a while. I’ve gone from the 650r to this and it’s better in every way. I did love the old pig though.

[@craigbielsky115]

@@johnhenson8244 XR650R? OR XL650R? BIG DIFF IN BIKES THERE.....

[@Dashriprock4]

I'll take the SWM, a JD 6x tuner and a single Arrow exhaust system and bank $2400. 🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪

[@kaiglembocki]

What is a JD 6x tuner and how would that make it comparable to all the other bikes ?

[@Dashriprock4]

kai glembocki It is a FI interrupter. It will help you fine tune the FI for more performance. I have one on my 2008 Husqvarna. The Arrow exhaust would require a bit of tuning. So with the tuner and the weight loss and performance from the Arrow the bike would be more than enough than 99% of the riders could handle. And you get to keep your money. $11,000 for a dirt bike is insane and we should all say NO by supporting those who offer value. There is no way the KTM is 30% better than the SWM...

[@plt4415]

@@Dashriprock4 As I know old Husqy EFI and SWM EFI are not same. There are tuners for 630 models but it doesn't fit to SWM650(old 630 indeed) models. I think they switched to Mikuni which was not used before or something like that.

[@Dashriprock4]

PLT The JD tuner for the Husky 510 works on the SWM. Both have Mikuni FI as does my TE250

[@kimojon9665]

@@Dashriprock4 Agree, but go to resale your SWM and good luck, go resale your KTM and you'll have a line of people with cash

[@blockhead52]

A good comparo I would like to have more info regarding service intervals and cost of owning each of these bikes.

[@sevenrule3135]

i've owned a 2018 Husky 501 for going on 2 years now and it has never had a single issue aside from the speedometer breaking due to water damage. I have over 250 hours on the bike and all I have done is change the oil, clean the air filter (regularly), and had the valves adjusted a single time. I ride it on the road primarily but it sees plenty of track use and has held up perfectly.

[@kanon0853]

Service intervals? It’s a dirt bike, look at the sight glass, if the oil looks spent, change it. Check your valves and plug every k and if it acts up, chase down the problem and fix it. These things aren’t 90’s lambos.

[@srrtbb]

Can you guys do SWM RS300R in depth review please!!!?!? Thanks.

[@laridfamilymx5789]

Definitely would go with the husky or ktm. But the swm is interesting with its price.

[@cyclopathic998]

TE:510 aftermarket tanks fit SWM you may have to slightly alter plastics

[@turb0diesel]

cyclopathic I had a ‘08 510... you had to alter plastics to get IMS tank to fit then too, haha

[@josh4154]

I'd love to see a 300cc shootout!!!

[@aaroncaldwell8278]

Not manner to chose out of! Mates got the ktm300 off it’s guts mad bike 👌🏽

[@HS-hr5wp]

2 stroke

[@josh4154]

Of course 2t!!

[@octaviosilva5122]

Josh 415 there’s only like 3 companies that make them and 2 of them com outta the same factories

[@josh4154]

Ktm, husky, beta, gas gas, tm and sherco all make 300 2t bikes.

[@MDHenry4]

Thanks for shooting in 4k HDR. Small bits are not good. Great review

[@jeffconley6366]

You miss the whole point of dual-sport. What you reviewed are dirt bikes with lights and turn signals. But, what else should I expect from a magazine named dirtbike.

[@zacha1408]

Beta one in every category and somehow KTM was given the nod sounds like someone is getting paid money for fixed results.

[@tomcat6933]

Won not one. Lol. I agree

[@RadialHead]

@JMax 01 KTM do not own Beta, not sure where you got that idea from. KTM own Husky & Gas Gas.

[@lukasdewaal7080]

SWM all the way

[@kanon0853]

I just sold my 08 te450, no way in hell am I going back.

[@srrtbb]

Can you please do a 300cc dual sport review as well!?!??!?!!? Thanks! Awesome review, keep up the good work. Also btw what model is that FXR helmet at 18:12 mark??!?!? Thanks!

[@srrtbb]

Found it, it is FXR 6D, good lord that's expensive ass helmet!

[@joelrawlston2688]

Say what you want but I love my DR650

[@wyattblessing7078]

Love my DR650 also, but I wonder about that 6th gear.

[@DasAlpaka]

"Dual-Sport"-Bikes with high maintenance... For me a Dual-Sport should at least survive 5000km with no oil change an an engine rebuild after 75000km+

[@oConshien]

curious: what is your recommendation? Wr250r?

[@DasAlpaka]

Good question... I'm still looking for the perfect bike. Currently I have a Yamaha XT 600. Not the fastest nor the strongest but indestructible. Maybe a KTM 390 Enduro? Moderate Power, lightweight and still reliable enough. Hoping to see something in this category.

[@mdc1544]

@@m.d9726 do u have some info about it for 2021 2022? in italy we have 450 xr, a revisited model with more cv then "L version" but less then "rx one" but still with 1000 km oil and outside still the same bike.

[@Zedinator593]

That’s a trail bike

[@mikegrady4]

KTM 690 or Husqvarna 701.....those are dual sport bikes. You can ride them comfortably on the interstate or ride a single track in the woods. They have 6000mi service intervals. You can ride without doing an oil change every 3 days. This review is of detuned enduro bikes....

[@daveritschel3599]

Love em but what good are they if one can't afford them?

[@graydensgarage]

Pretty much the same price as all the other trail and motocross bikes

[@cavscout62]

That’s it, no more Dirt Bike articles. Too damn many commercials!

[@JumpingWatermelons]

Gotta watch on a computer, with adblock. No commercials then

[@SamuelBarrPhotography]

Were there any reasons why the Kawasaki and Yamaha offerings weren't included in this roundup?

[@boringsoaring]

Because they weren't rebranded KTMs

[@johnhenson8244]

Not so sure about leaving the honda stock. Throttle response down low is tweety crap. Modified ecu and pipe fixes this for the single track running and makes this bike even better. Fmf pipe leaves it quiet, which I also like.

[@MBCITB]

Could you explain this a bit for me? I'm thinking of getting a 450L but am not a gearhead.

[@johnhenson8244]

@@MBCITBvortex ecu control, changes your fuel injection making it a smooth delivery of the fuel. Factory is a cut off fuel deceleration for environmental compliance. So when you accelerate fuel is delivered from a virtually zero point, making it jerky. You can smooth this out manually using the clutch but this takes some work.

[@sc7244]

Is the CRF450RL a good bike?

[@manchesterroofingsystems8016]

@@sc7244 Pros: Honda reliability/durability; dealer network; price vs. KTM/Husky Cons: 40+LB heavier than KTM/Husky; need Vortex ECU to get rid of jerky throttle down low; no hydraulic clutch

[@maxfaxdude]

The KTM is a GREAT bike...however you can make it even better by: 1) Removing the airbox reeds 2) Replacing the stock muffler with a FMF 4.1 muffler. 3) Changing the stock ECU with a programmable Vortex ECU unit. These simple changes that just about anyone can do really "wakes the bike up" increasing bottom but mostly mid and top end power.

[@stefanagiovlasitis2669]

And then you can get ur knee pads ready when you go to the dealer to get it fixed bc the kid graduating vocational mechanical school installed it all 🤣

[@DaBinChe]

I'm sold! CT125 it is.

[@fedswithful]

Hell yes

[@andrewj.6728]

How mush is one of those?

[@DaBinChe]

@@andrewj.6728 it is on the Honda website

[@AvidEnduro]

Andrew John $3,900 US. I’m thinking seriously about getting one. May trade my super tenere haha

[@ADVlife287]

No question, I’m buying one. Can’t wait for November.

[@BikerDarren24]

Great bikes but Yamaha is really lacking in this dual sport department, would love a dual sport WR450 or WR450 rally type model but still nothing, love the Tenere 700 bit still a bit big for me needs, it's hard to get a road legal WR450F here in UK and lighting kits are hard to find here as well, Honda did great with the release of the CRF450L and being all road legal but in Europe it is so choked up with emissions stuff that the HP is just pathetic compared to the rest of the world for the price hence why these Euro bikes are so dominant over here, please Yamaha make a new 300-500cc dual sport please 🤞

[@paulgaughan1393]

Pro racing do the light kit for the Yamaha WR450F. Road registered and fully legal in UK. Dealers usually take off all the restrictions such as throttle lock, exhaust restrictions and air filter plastics. Haan wheels do a rear wheel with cush hub for a good price. A litre of oil every 1000 miles. Change the front to a 14 and the rear to a 46 and nice compromise on and off road. Total price with all the changes; £9,000.

[@helenodetroyo7035]

dont like water cooled bikes. That is another possible part that can break in a motorcycle. The more simple, the best

[@austincameron9814]

Unga boonga u scared of that ther fuel injection? I always liked them controlled fuel leak carbeuraterz

[@dopesquatch]

Love my beta 390rrs

[@jeffloucks2120]

So dig that bike. Only ridden it in single track but the motor was so good.

[@Thebassguru84]

Of course Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki on the side lines like always. The drz400 needs a big upgrade

[@swColoradoful]

The price man, you could almost get two for the price of one. If the upgrade gets adjusted the price it might lose its biggest advantage

[@mrockerdude8397]

At least a sixth gear.. I would definitely be looking closer at a DRZ if it had it.

[@boris2873]

I'm in Alaska & always liked my bikes loud because it let's the bears & moose know I'm coming. I almost rearended a brown bear on a bike with the stock exhaust.

[@molson62]

unique

[@SteveHo1961]

Yeah those brown bears always ride way too slow. The buggers need to drop some Kilograms. It’s the diet I think 👍🤣

[@manchesterroofingsystems8016]

@@SteveHo1961 🤣🤣🤣

[@derekdreke4990]

Good to see honda putting on a skid plate from the factory ! For 10k dirt bikes this is the least they can do

[@jacko4483]

It may be a little bit of a hassle to change oil but I like the fact that Beta has two separate oiling systems. One for the engine and the other for the transmission and clutch. Anyone have thoughts and opinions on that?

[@donniemcfarland3160]

You hit the nail on the head !!!!!

[@double-oseven5725]

Spring rates are rarely soft...testers have been eating to much cake😉😎

[@csbalazs01]

I own an SWM RS500 but would trade it for KTM 500Exc. Lack of parts (even finding rear disk protector is a no-way challenge) and overall quality is oldish. I have continous problem with the clutch but the most significant down point is its weight. Far more heavier than a modern off-road orientated dual sport bike should be. 130 kg (286 lb) wet (don’t beleive in factory specs)

[@karlcain1068]

Full-time maintenance?.... Ain’t nobody got time for that...

[@PieMaster928]

Tough to beat a DR650

[@bluejack644]

What ever happened to comfortable ass friendly seats? It's like these new dual sports were designed by Mr. Skinny Jeans. Just a small minimalist nut cushion in case your ass accidently bumps the seat. They look fun, but I'll keep my dr350.

[@douglasyoung3992]

Yes, keep the bikes quiet. Great riding and great review.

[@commentaccount49]

This particular review was a major factor in choosing my dual-sport bike. I went into it wanting a KTM 500 EXC-F... I came out of it knowing the Honda was the better choice, given the amount of on-road use it would see. I bought a CRF450RL and have gone 8300 trouble free miles as of today. That top notch lighting will keep you alive when you're braking in traffic, or making a turn, or see a deer at night. Since this review, the MSRP of the Honda has actually dropped down to $9999 in the U.S. The other bikes would be awesome for a weekend, but if you want a bike you can live with for years... Honda.

[@geraltofrivia4651]

If you look at other KZbin videos though most people that buy the Honda end up selling it within months

[@commentaccount49]

@@geraltofrivia4651 Most people? No. Most people who make youtube content about their bikes, maybe. I think you'd find that those types of people change bikes often regardless of brand or quality. You can't extrapolate what "most" people do based on youtube content.

[@GMarsh-gn1iw]

Sorry, but I don't feel that these are dual sports. These are dirt bikes with lights. Nothing like the Xr, Dr, or Klr's of days gone by. These engines are too high strung to last 50k, 75k, or even 100k with nothing but valve adjustments and general maintenance. I also seriously doubt seeing someone "feel" like putting 500 plus miles on roads, gravel and fire paths in a day.

[@algee8228]

This is DIRT BIKE magazine...this is as road-worthy a bike you're gonna see here.

[@AA-bg5rc]

Sorry if you want a shootout of your favorite dusty ass 650's feel free to go back In time 2 decades ago.

[@TheNovaks47]

Sadly, when it comes to dual sports, it's either expensive dirt bikes with lights like these, or the old heavy, still kind of expensive for what they are, reliable thumpers. Nothing in between. For some reason, nobody wants to fill that gap, unfortunately.

[@Kickstart500]

You have a point.. but those bikes are not making 30% more horses at 60% of the wet weight.. times are a changing

[@GMarsh-gn1iw]

The Yamaha tenere 700 is a modern day dual sport in my opinion. It’s far more modern than the dated bikes I’ve listed. The Yamaha 700 fits quite well into dual sport category than the bikes in the video.

[@Porsche996driver]

The SWM only $7k that’s a huge bargain for this class. I’ve been looking at the Kawi KLX300 at $6k hmmm ha.

[@benmartin6476]

I’m pretty settled on the husqvarna ( love my 2022 te300i) I really want the beta but I was told they aren’t available in Canada, I’d love to try the swm though , love the old Husqvarna’s

[@4x4erik]

Would love to see a GPX FSE450R in yall's reviews. I know it's different, but it's definitely comparable now days, and I think this is the future. We will see.

[@drzrider3440]

What no drz400. Oh I get it. This is a test of the high maintenance bikes not the super solid reliable 50,000+ miles reliable Kind of bikes.

[@ryanlynch2259]

These bikes just end up sitting in people's garages. People with suzukis ride on

[@Hypure2wheels]

Amen, Suzuki!

[@alexfrankl7861]

The SWM donk has been around for a long time and is pretty solid .

[@1keykneedeep]

DRZ is almost half the price too

[@Pamberjack_]

You said what I was thinking...

[@adambatchelder4121]

Witch one has the widest raito transmission. For real ds ridding we need a sub 5mph first gear and a nice low rpm at 70.

[@georgebanker2669]

“Witch”?

[@SD-ir1vf]

All these bikes are just stupid over weight clumsy dirt bikes with 6 speed gear box. They would handle like shit at 70-MPH.

[@Wavelover33]

@@georgebanker2669 you know 10 out of 8 people are dyslexic!

[@ampm9771]

sub 5mph? like 8kmh! 1st gear cannot be that short to be considered a gear. 20kmh is more like it.

[@adambatchelder4121]

@@ampm9771 Ya if you ride tight technical mountain single track. 13,53 is comon gearing for us but we need wider raito for the occasional dirt road section

[@kuhndj67]

Service interval, service cost, and dealer network? Usually dirt guys don't care as much about this but if you're interested in a lightweight adv bike these could fit the bill if they don't need expensive maintenance at absurd frequencies (something that's given KTM a bad reputation). IIRC the 2019 EXC 500 had a 250mile oil interval...that makes it fairly useless for any sort of distance (basically it's street legal but I'd end up trailering it to anyplace more than a couple hours away).

[@MotoAdventurer]

If I called a Tiger 900 a "Dual-Sport", I suspect that many people would get their knickers in a bind. Inversely, calling a race-spec dirt bike with a plate a "Dual-Sport" should receive similar scrutiny. I am VERY happy that these bikes exist, especially here on the east coast (I plan to buy one of these bikes in the near future). I understand this is semantics, and I understand this is a matter of buyer education, however, I think it would be wise if we redefine "enduro" or something of that measure to more clearly define the difference between the DR-Z400 and the KTM 500 EXC... because the chasm between the two bikes is VAST. Ideally, "newer" riders looking to get into this segment will find reputable dealers that will educate them on the difference between the CRF450L and the CRF250L, which includes a lot more than displacement and performance, but I fear that's not what's going to happen. With that, ideally "price" will separate the casual "dual-sport explorers" from the "trail to trail" single track riders, but I still want to ask the question, should we re-evaluate what we call these race-spec bikes with DOT required equipment?

[@mikdavi3254]

Moto, excellent poimt as there should be different categories for these machines. I ride a dualsport that is even more narrowly focused than these bikes, a street legal 2 stroke used to connect as much technical singletrack as possible. While I do occasionally use it to run errands it certainly isn't the happiest camper on the roadl

[@paulcondie2520]

Swm baby!