Adventure Bike Truth

[@TimRHillard]

First time you drop a 600lbs bike, and have to pick it up by yourself in sloppy conditions… you realize what this guy is saying is so true.

[@bertbirge3617]

Finally someone that gives a true review!! YES!!! I have an Africa Twin and would trade it for nothing!! I love this bike! But it's just like this review says.. it's for touring and a little off road (gravel roads).. not heavy off road or single tracks!!!

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks for your honest comment Bert. I too loved my Africa Twin for off road touring, but in the end I wanted to explore further off road and needed a smaller/lighter bike.

[@AnyMotoUSA]

Yup. Have had mine for 100k miles now, realized early on that she's a pig in single track. Everything else though, its the perfect bike for me. I love the platform she's goldilocks!

[@Deontjie]

That is why you have two bikes....

[@chasearrington1234]

I have an Africa Twin. It has its limitations compared to a crf 450.. but I most definitely rock this thing off road on muddy single track and on the jumps. But I’m also 26 and pretty large so I can handle it easier.

[@Mr_BRRRRT]

Exactly. People see the ads, IG posts and forget that even pro riders have difficulty using big bikes. Ask most of them and they will say their favorite bikes are smaller.

[@feezee82]

I used to ride KTM 690 Enduro. That was a truly capable off road bike. Rode it in every terrain possible, even rode it on a sandy motocross track once. But even that bike felt too heavy and powerful. The way that I see it, the main advantages that big adventure bikes have is that they are far more comfortable on long trips, can carry much more cargo, and have bigger fuel tanks. But smaller bikes are far better at pretty much everything else.

[@keithquinn5624]

Yup

[@greglenoir7674]

How dare you lay bare the truth, the big boys may cry.

[@Squee7e]

yeah the KTM 690 might be too heavy already I never felt it was about the power but about the weight. There's nothing more scary than riding a 300kg travel bike up a steep ascend knowing if you screw up you might have a broken leg. I once owned a Husqvarna TE 610 (non E) from 1995 which only weighed 120kg wet and 180kg with luggage. It had like ~65 hp and was super controllable. In my eyes that was the perfect adventure bike (after I fitted a 15 liter tank for ~300km range) Since it wasn't really road legal (due to emissions you had to reduce the power to 24hp) I sold it after a year or so but I had lots of fun with it and even fitted some supermoto rims for street use. I drove it with full power all the time of course. Nowadays I only ride street bikes (cbr 600 pc35) but I always think back to that great time when I owned this super lightweight, high performance Enduro

[@alielabdimarras7965]

Exactly I ride a Husqvarna 701 Supermoto with 70/30 tyres and the only thing it is good for is twisty roads, gravel and hard terrain. It's 150 kg will prevent any Enduro type usage. For what do people buy a 300 kg bike with dishwasher? Get a car. The Porsche is faster on the road and more comfy, in a van you can sleep and with a Hilux you can carry your bike with you for the suicidal hillcllimb.

[@jeffwilliam7500]

701 all day

[@eyedrz]

You just said what I've felt for years. Downsized to a KTM 390 Adventure and couldn't be happier when the paved road ends.

[@ugrdncr]

İ have 250 Ktm Adventure and it is a great bike. On and off road.

[@michelt4390]

Didn't someone once said that an "adventure" is to take inappropriate equipment to out of the way places?... For long distance touring and exploring, those big bikes are kind of nice... but for exploring off-road, we'll stick to our WR250R thank you.

[@bradsanders6954]

@@ugrdncr They dont make a KTM 250 Adventure. They make an EXC dual sport bike.

[@durlabhdautichakma7090]

@@bradsanders6954 KTM makes a 250 Adventure in India

[@dadrider3]

​@@bradsanders6954 we have the 250 adventure in Greece

[@Titan500J]

I have an 05 GS 1200 and I love it. I'll go on gravel roads occasionally. We see these beautiful slow motion videos but realize that the people riding in them are many times the equivalent to an Olympic athletes. I don't watch the Olympics then go jump on the parallel bars and say, hold my beer and watch this!! Truthful video, thanks.

[@rel62]

Dude, you are hilarious -- I laughed out loud in multiple parts of this video! Your no-hype delivery and dry humour are perfect. This is the brutally honest commentary that no one else will do. I have a Super Ténéré...so I know a thing or two about "heavy" (it even surpasses your Africa Twin weight-wise). It's a "travel bike", and a very good one; but I shan't be taking it on much more than gravel or dirt...sure as heck won't be going through mud or sand!

[@ShonkyProductions]

Haha... thanks mate, I'm glad I could make you smile. The Super Ten sounds like an awesome travel bike 👍

[@usbackcountry]

As a rider of a +600 Lbs 1250cc BMW GSA I concur. Now looking to add another bike for off road. Around 300CC.

[@bobjohnson1633]

Don't be a sissy. Got a scrambler 1200 as my first bike, and I'm enjoying sand and mud. I don't even have any real skills.

[@magarj]

The Super Ten is a big heavy bike, surprisingly does better then I expected offroad, just don't drop it.

[@yurart]

@@magarj I can also add a bit. I also own a Super Tenere 1200 2015. It is also quite fine in the sand (even a beach sand), but you need to add some throttle all the time and maintain some speed when you move through the sand. it requires some skill.

[@Hopeless_and_Forlorn]

When I tried off road riding over fifty years ago, I immediately concluded that any bike that weighed more than a hundred kg should stay on the pavement. I could pick up my CZ 250 when I dropped it and carry on. When people began claiming that bikes weighing more than 220 kg were suitable for off-road adventuring, I went to a Honda dealer and looked at an Africa Twin, just to see how big it really was. I decided that somebody was lying. As Itchy Boots Noraly nears the end of her solo journey from South America to the northern reaches of Alaska, her Honda CRF 300 has proven the lie. Smaller really is better.

[@xcaceuk]

So true, most of the heavyweight adventure bikes stay on the hard stuff, especially when they are fully loaded. I’m just back from NZ on my CRF300L and it was the perfect choice for a mix of terrains and quick enough for the A to B sections too. I think it is slowly filtering through that the big macho bikes are no match for the lightweight dual sports when the going gets rough

[@marcelfacd]

@@xcaceuk A crf300 weighs in at +150kg, A 690/701 about 150kg....so don't agree with your 100kg statement

[@adrianrouse5148]

@@marcelfacd I think what he was on about was just size and weight. The lighter the better. And to tall creates problems when you need to put a foot down to help. These adventure bikes are great for road use. But would kill you off road. I have a adventure bike a gravel road is as near off road as I would take it. I have a few old enduro bikes for the harder trails.

[@SophisticatedBob]

An Africa Twin weighs almost 225lbs more than a Honda 300L. And Noraly is a light person. And she still gets stuck, and has issues getting up loose, rocky hills. Those huge displacement bikes wouldn't make it.

[@marcelfacd]

@@adrianrouse5148 so am I , but to say any bike that weighs more then 100kg should stay on pavement is plain bulls**t. A fully equipped dakar bikes weighs about 150-165 kg….my 690 150kg…..dare me.

[@windshieldraindrops8228]

Here in India a 100cc bike does everything at everywhere for years without fail 😊

[@DmacDomage]

So true. I've been lucky enough to have a riding adventure through Rajasthan. From what I saw, a 100cc is enough for Mum, Dad a five year old AND a baby. All at once 😂. I take my hat off to Indian motorcycle riders. You guys are something else. I saw one guy on the freeway between Pushkar and Jaipur who was leaning back on his bike, controlling the handlebars and throttle with his feet while he rolled a cigarette. Mad skill.

[@windshieldraindrops8228]

@@DmacDomage 👍

[@gopuprakash160]

In Africa, Bajaj and TVS 100 cc bikes rule

[@killroy2993]

It does here too in the US. Ask every grom/z125 rider

[@LaMulaMotovlog]

Same in Mexico 🇲🇽 brother

[@Splintermill]

Yet another spot on video, Shonky! I’ve always been a Honda geek, and anyone who is has no doubt drooled over an ad or brochure of an Africa Twin. Picked up my 300 rally a few weeks ago, and the dealer had a used AT I looked over and sat on for a bit. BEAUTIFUL machine, but I would never even think of attempting a back country ride on that monster! Week long touring ride? Absolutely where that machine fits. Hats off to those who choose to wrestle these huge machines, for me I’ll just pack a bit lighter! Ride Red, ride on!

[@Spiderwebsider]

Choose the right tool for the job. It really is that simple. I have an Africa Twin and a KTM 350. Would I use the Africa Twin for riding technical single track or straight out rough as guts bush bashing? Of course not, it’s highly capable for what it is, but it’s too heavy. By the same token, would I load up the 350 with gear, slab it out 1000 ks to Broken Hill, camp overnight, and then spend a week riding The Flinders? Absolutely not. Two completely different bikes, two completely different purposes. It’s like comparing a shotgun to a rifle: they are both firearms, but that is about the only thing they have in common.

[@adrienmarchetti1303]

Finally someone with common sense, thank you!

[@dafebeme2]

This comment should be pinned. Exactly my thoughts. Not everything is black or white.

[@wirebrush]

Nailed it!

[@nickg2431]

You can understand the level of actual experience at off road riding that people have by their comments.

[@rustyshackleford5509]

Adventure bikes have the same problem as Mountain bikes. There is no beer, women, or good restaurants out in the wilderness.

[@TimRHillard]

That’s the truth.

[@jarrod1687]

Fine by me

[@richardahola692]

@@rustyshackleford5509 you point where it goes.

[@guntekinnoyan5924]

The best bike is the most comfortable you feel when you are on . Simple, neat and concrete truth. Kudos mate, agree with you on each point.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks

[@jimbrown9885]

I bought a DR650 years ago. Not even sure why I bought it, because I was very unexcited by it. Turned out to be a superb bike. Very capable in most conditions, comfortable, next to no maintenance. Guy who owned it before me rode it from the US to Brazil and back. Now I just stick to dirt. That's where I have the most fun.

[@peterbojkov4669]

Same here: got a DR650 a few years ago and can't stop riding it! Loving it so much, that I sold my "modern" adventure bike and kept the DR...

[@massaberlin]

I had a 1991 Dr 650 Rs, 46hp, kick start, air cooled, 170kg..loved it so much. It's such a pity that all Japanese motorcycle manufacturers have given up on this market of simple, easy to ride and easy to maintain enduro bikes. I miss motorcycles like the XT, KLR, XL or DR.

[@tomasagustin45]

@@massaberlin the new klr is pretty simple as far as adv bikes go.

[@papatorr3669]

I downsized from a KLR650 (great big guy bike) to a DR650 (I'm only 5'4") and it's better for me in every way. I consider the DR650 my large adventure bike as I have an XT225, although I like my TW200 even better on hilly trails.

[@tylerrandolph6193]

Felt the same with my KLR. Quickly became my fave bike

[@heleti0000]

I was VERY reticent about buying a Royal Enfield Himalayan because of the minimal HP - eventually the price and the fact it was the only “Adventure” type bike that I could “flat-foot” decided for me. Having been riding for over 50 years and numerous bikes from a “Postie” to Trail Bikes and big HP Suzukis / Kawasaki road bikes, the 24HP was initially a concern BUT if you forget about electronics completely controlling how you ride and actually use the gears as they were meant to be used, 24HP is sufficient even for cruising at 100kph on the highway but becomes eminently suitable and useable in the bush - especially with similar Torque figures. I can slowly chug up steep loose inclines, while my mates on big KTM’s and BMW’s are sliding hopelessly backwards with their rear wheels spinning at insane revs. Yep - a big difference between marketing dreams and reality.

[@Makermook]

I've had a Himalayan for about 4 years and it's a fantastic bike. I'm a big guy and I took it and all my gear on a 2000km backroads trip a couple summers ago. It was perfectly capable and gave me no problems.

[@seabiscuit726142]

My 1090R has Off-Road mode on Traction Control. It eats the steep gravel roads effortlessly. In any adventure ride the pavement is 80% and the dirt 20%. Yes, it's heavy to pick up but that rarely happens.

[@Sandesh98147]

Ive rode Himalayan on some pretty long trips and the horsepower shortage was never felt. I daily ride RC390 so half the HP on touring might feel less but the bike gives plenty of torque at low RPMs so I never felt I needed the acceleration I'm used to. Ive done light offroading on it using 17 inch street tyre on back and it still held up pretty okay.

[@dibyendudas3726]

New himalayan 450 will be better

[@Spoons81]

I have a himalayan, I have been told by guys on 900cc's "holy crap that thing moves better than I thought" the bike has been amazing. It takes me everywhere, no issues. When I tell people what the engine in it is they always make a face, but I know the thing rides wherever I want it to

[@nomadben]

Great points. I love my V-Strom 650; I put some Michelin 80/20 adventure tires on it and it is surprisingly capable off-road, but I have no illusions of it being a hardcore off-road bike. I spend most of my time on-road, but I like being able to turn off and explore wherever I feel like it. If I had a second bike, it would definitely be a small dual-sport. I like the names you suggested: "Travel bike" or "Off-road Touring bike". That's pretty much how I see mine.

[@pareshprajapati7916]

Thank you for bringing reality out. Many people fall in to traps emotionally and can't handle the bike. Thank you again 🇮🇳🙏

[@SuchanBajracharya]

Spot on, mate! I sold my CRF 250 Rally for a Ducati Desert Sled thinking it's more Adventure Ready with that big powerful L-twin engine, retro scrambler offroad ready looks but I was wrong and now I am getting a CRF 300 Rally again! It's small, lightweight, and it will go anywhere you take it. I have taken my Rally up the high mountain roads in Nepal, so much fun and confidence inspiring! That little single cylinder Honda is the perfect machine for offroad touring!

[@desgoslett5047]

There is good reason why the bikes competing in the annual Dakar race are 200-450cc engine capacity

[@vstromwayne4864]

There is a good reason why they use 450cc bikes. The organisers changed the rules, and limited the capacity to 450cc. You can't ride a bigger bike. Probably because of safety concerns and the fact that KTM kept winning.

[@hdcvisser]

I took my Multistrada with standard Pirelli 17 inch tires across Africa - South Africa, Namibia, Angola etc - over hills, mountains, deserts, sea, sand and much more - no issues except for burst backtires which I had to get guys to fly in spares. Most awesome trip - alone - but then I was at that time seriously competing in S1 Supermoto Nationals as well as Off-road races such as Roof of Africa etc. It can be done, and most enjoyable - camping in the veldt, where you want, not seeing another human for 100kms. At exactly 118km/h, the Ducati lifts out of the sand and becomes a plaything, wheelies galore... What you said is 100% accurate though as you will need experience to do it and the crappy feeling of trying not to crash an expensive bike in the middle of nowhere. The Multi itself came through with flying colours - with the last couple of 100km's home, flat-out on highways. My reason was that I still wanted a quick bike on tar with off-road abilities. That in itself is a complete and utter BS statement from marketeers as my first trip from South Africa to France through Africa was on a standard BMW RT with full fairings - NOT an off-road at all. As you mentioned - weight kills it. The problem here is also - even if you use a smaller bike, all the gear you have to take along also weighs a ton - making small bikes terrible on tar. I'm ranting more than giving my previous experiences but I would still take a larger, more powerful bike - what is now deemed "middle weight", rip off all the crap you do not need, make it as light as possible, and just go for it - add more powerful lights, try and get rid of all electronics..but this time more relaxed and not the almost 300km per hour top speeds that you used to do. My incoherent 2c worth...

[@markl8043]

I agree 💯!! That’s one of the reasons I sold my KLR 650. Just to big and heavy. I’m 5’6 and couldn’t Imagine riding a H-D Pan American in the same places I rode my KLR. Awesome video!! Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks Mark, glad you like the video. The marketing guys think you are ready for that H-D Pan America and are willing to sell you one for a great price!

[@jimperry4420]

Same here. Sold my Klr and bought a Drz. Now I’m happy!

[@texbacalian5036]

But klr is not big, just the right size imo.

[@IdeaStudioBKK]

Hands down the best video essay I have seen on the subject. Well done, and I 100% agree with you!

[@daletalaplaya5086]

I have a CRF300l and was getting a bit obsessed about getting a new AT. Thanks for bringing me back to my senses!

[@ShonkyProductions]

Hi Dale, the AT is a great bike but just remember, it can't go everywhere you take the CRF300l as easily. 👍

[@daletalaplaya5086]

Your video was great and eye-opening. I will keep my CRF300 here in Nicaragua and points south then maybe the AT for the States later on. 👍all the motos here are -150 anyway.

[@ShonkyProductions]

@@daletalaplaya5086 Great choice 👍

[@pesticlespete8399]

Yep ! I owned a GS and sold it for a DR single. Did the GS turn heads? Yes, but only when I passed a cafe. Did the DR turn heads? No, but it went bloody everywhere. I rode like I was 16 again. Light, no shiny paintwork to scratch. Going to try an even lighter CRFRally next. I learned the motto ‘less power is more’ when it comes going off the beaten track ! Great vid Shonky 😊!

[@dashuntas.m4045]

The bad thing about buying a DR is that it might be the last bike you ever buy

[@spooner9440]

True. I have been on board on an Africa Twin 1000, a 650, 450 and 250's (sold some and handed down some as a gift to my brother) but I seem to have been missing all the fun.. Now the CRF 300L has given me a new light in riding. Realizing that a smaller displacement is all you ever need. I was riding through a typhoon drenched road yesterday here in the Philippines and come across heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, flood, mud and high current water overflows whilst having a big smile on my face just to see and be with my kids on other side of the island. Indeed, I got through them all obstacles with all the fun on a 300. For me it was a true adventure. Cheers!

[@atilathesonofdanubius4277]

Right on point. I was almost sucked in recently. What saved me was that all those big adventure bikes were all too freaking tall for me. On top of that they failed to properly address short riders. So, I was so pissed that I bought a used Sport Touring bike instead and I'm very happy with my decision since I had enough money left to buy a much smaller 300 cc dirt bike so I could go and do some real adventure. Thanks for proving I did the right thing.

[@donm6578]

Love the BEEPs lol. I work at a motorcycle shop where we work on Japanese sport, dirt and cruisers. Whenever an adventure bike comes In we can't wrap our heads around how anyone could possibly take those tall, massive things off road. Your video solidifies this in my mind. Maybe the tenere 700 could handle it as a lighter, "smaller" bike. But I agree anything sub-500cc would be great offroad. Cheers!

[@johnDukemaster]

Tenere 700 weighs more than 200kgs! Bonkers!

[@motorcyclecafe]

I cannot believe what I just watched. A bloke that actually knows what he is talking about. Good Job!

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks mate.

[@Thromby]

While I agree mostly with this video, its about being true to yourself in what you want, what you're going to do and the compromises you are willing to make. Are the big ADV bikes heavy? yes. The down side to it is when you gotta pick them up, or go down slippery steep trails. But the upside is I can carry all my camp gear, get where I am going without being blown all over the road from trucks, feeling more stability on gravelly roads. Do you need 100HP? Yes and no. On the trails with no luggage? No I agree, its a hinderance more than help. BUT 100HP with a bike full of luggage, on a freeway that everyone is doing minimum 85-90mph, yes. ADV bikes are geared to do everything. In this, you are going to do nothing the best. I am personally ok with it as I understand the limitations of my bike, I understand other bike are better in some situations than mine, but by the same token, those better bikes off road are way worse in other areas than my bike. Would I want to take the light and nimble 390 down to the dragon on the freeway with all my gear, hell no. Is it better on single track than my Tiger? In some circumstances, yes, in others no. One example I noticed is the 390 being so light is horrible compared to the Tiger on things like deep gravel roads. The Tiger feels like a boat cutting the water, easy to steer and maneuver on it, the 390 feels like a rowboat in high waves in it. Like anything, you got to get to know your capabilities, and also important, your bikes. (I own a 2015 too-top-heavy Triumph Tiger Explorer XC and a KTM 390 Adventure (which has been in the shop since Oct :/ ).

[@biscuitonabike4425]

I carried all my camp gear etc on a Honda Varadero.... No not the 1000, I had the 125, with some 50/50 road/trail tyres, and it was awesome. Took longer to get somewhere to then be where I wanted, but it went places.

[@metalsadman]

Most bikes are capable of adventure, mopeds(100/150ccs) no problem climbing in mountainous off road areas in my country and 3up, or in some occasion more than 3 people on it.

[@tweetdezweet]

I finally had time to take my CRF300 Rally for a 3 day trip last weekend, took it from Belgium to Luxemburg and was able to pack everything I needed and more tbh. Only carried food for one day but that's because my winter sleeping bag when compressed takes up about as much space as food for 4 days... I even carried a camping chair with me and a rather large 2 person tent so I could keep all my gear inside to keep it from freezing during the night. The test came when I entered Luxemburg, on the windy roads where signs indicated a 15% incline and it did it quite easily... On the way back I was on a steep incline doing about 90 km/h and only then did I have to shift back to 5th because my speed dropped a little and it got through it doing 90 easily. I tend to avoid highways, which I have always been doing, even with my larger Diversion900 back in the day because I find it boring. But that said, even with all my gear on the Rally, it behaved as expected, sure it was a tiny bit more work in the strong winds but not really much more than on my Diversion, my guess is that despite it's weight it also had a larger "side surface" which sorts of made it a large sail for side winds :) Have yet to do offroad with all my luggage on it since I haven't had the time to go out to places where offroading is legal or at least tolerated. I think the (lack of) power on smaller bikes is often times judged incorrectly as being insufficient. The big BMW GS has always been my dream bike since I watched Long Way Round but when I finally saved up enough money to get one, I realized that I wouldn't be able to handle it offroad so I looked at smaller bikes and settled on the Rally. Hope to get a BMW GS as well at some point, but tbh, for the kind of riding I want to do with all the luggage I need, I have found that the Rally is sufficient :)

[@noobblet1996]

thats pure bs we did montain pass in svaneti and trip around Georgia on 250-300cc bikes, and tell you what we passed heavy bmws on trails with our bikes...

[@michaelidarecis]

The reality is adventure bikes sell you on something the bike can't really do. Have a tiger 800 and would not even think of taking it in anything more difficult than gravel roads. Just too heavy. Only 5% of anyone that buys a tiger 800 will use it in serious stuff and most of them would complain and find it more exhausting than fun.

[@MotoVania]

I actually had a deposit on an AT abs was convinced it was the be all end all ADV for me. But luckily before the 2022s came in I had a realization that I’d really have more capability and a better time on a dual sport. I’m 2 months in on my 300L Rally and loving every minute of it

[@ShonkyProductions]

Great decision Travis. The 300L Rally has opened up so many more possibilities for me.

[@ivyking4149]

I totally appreciate your video. This is applicable to all advertized items. This is what i learned to be expectation management. I can't even begin to add up all times me with a sad face when toys didn't do what I saw them doing on the commercial. And now, my golden rules are; -Sleep it over before purchasing -Try before I buy -Talk to people, ask them about their experience/tell them my plan or expectation. You had me laughing outloud 😅

[@Yoda8945]

You give a great review of the problems with heavy adventure bikes. I have been going on somewhat long multiday group rides using a Suzuki DRZ400. The guys with the 1000cc+ bikes need to be really big and very experienced to handle those bikes where we go. The DRZ is very capable on the highway at 70-75mph, but really shines off road.

[@ruimatos46]

You said what everyone knows out loud! I have a friend who bought a T7 and sold it in less than a month because he had zero skills offroad! Now he rides a Ducati Multistrada V4 and keeps her on the tarmac. For me has an experienced enduro and motocross rider, the T7 was sweet when he let me ride it. The thing is that marketing tries to sell the bikes like they will make anyone a great offroad rider but actually you have to have the skill and experience! Great video.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks mate, that's it exactly... They seel the idea that you'll be able to ride it like they show on the advertising.

[@theeschatechannel2854]

Agreed, I’d never take a Africa twin to the dunes. But I would 100% take a AT on a RTW trip though the Himalayas and Pamir highway. When I think “adventure” that’s what comes to mind, not mud bogging or single track or dunes, that’s what dirt bikes and dual sports are for.

[@Thatbeardedguy86]

Watch Adam Reimann. He’s a KZbin from Aus that perfectly explains it. He handles a T700 like a dirt bike, but for him it’s just getting out and exploring. Not just finding single track.

[@67daltonknox]

I'm on my third adventure bike in 20 years. For older riders they offer the most relaxing riding position. I occasionally go up gravel roads, but have no interest in serious off-roading.

[@shakey2634]

I’ve been riding BMW RT’s for years. My buddies with GS’s have spent as much time on dirt as I have. I also have a Vstrom 650 and even it is too big.

[@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985]

Be honest about your intended use and you’ll choose the right bike. Get a small bike, but consider how you’ll get to those single tracks. Get a big bike and learn how far you personally can take it. I have a big, heavy Super Ténéré, that works great for where I live; more touring focused (as stated), but It does off road surprisingly well.

[@JCBigCat]

Exactly!

[@zatoichi101]

"Get a small bike, but consider how you’ll get to those single tracks." EXACTLY! The big bikes help you get to those places where you can veer off on dirt roads and trails. Once there, you might wish you had a smaller, more agile bike, but that wouldn't be the bike that got you there.

[@danielburger1116]

100%, I have the S Tenere too, only since I have no adventure/offroad skills or intentions.. But I need it for the road mostly so it works for that purpose. Also, since I am touching 60, I prefer the space and riding position as well as the wind protection. The one point I have to agree with fully and strongest, I believe the big bikes were always too heavy in my mind to take it on the sand or any undulations, once you start loosing it, there is no recovery or comeback. you (I) am going down.

[@firesail6707]

I agree. Here in CA, any freeway travel needs 75mph+ capability just to stay in the slow lane (to get to your destination). So it's all back roads on a light bike or being honest about the smooth unpaved roads for the heavy ones.

[@slednut2000]

Cheers from Canada. This is the best comparison I've seen. Own a DR650 and a Vstrom 1050. My 1050 rules the road and delivers comfort and easy riding for thousands of miles. The DR650 is the zombie apocalypse bike. Never think a gigantic bike will be that bike you had as a kid exploring the back yard.

[@vohannes]

I fully agree. These big bikes cost a fortune and includes massive tech, but most riders don't use half of their ability under normal circumstances. I was almost suck into the marketing hype, but fortunately saw through it. I bought a Honda NC750X in 2014 and spent almost half its original price in luggage and other upgrades to make it comfortable as a two-up tourer. It was still almost a third of the price of a basic large adventure bike. We have since toured our country, and a few others, over a distance of almost 100 000km and still have not spent as much as the price of a big bike. It is more than powerful enough to travel national speed limits with ease and we have had awesome adventures, even on dirt roads.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Well done mate, sounds like you have a great bike for you and your partner.

[@tschoonhoven2011]

thanks for the comment. im buying an nc750x next week after a 40 year hiatus from riding. im going to use it mainly for an every day ride but would like to take my wife on it on occasional long trips. any thoughts on 2 up touring on it? thanks

[@vohannes]

@@tschoonhoven2011 Unless you love the massive power of the liter plus sport tourers and racing friends through mountain passes, the NC will fill all your needs. It will exceed the national speed limit with luggage and a pillion if you want, but runs best up to 140 km/h fully loaded. It has enough power to pass cars at national speeds, but you need to ride it like a car. The torque is very good at low revs. The seats can be hard over long distances and you will need to make it more comfortable or use e.g. Airhawk cushions. Although it is intended as a daily commuter, small improvements can turn it into an excellent tourer. I extended the pillion pegs further forward to better the leg angle for my wife, added Honda topbox and luggage, added heated grips and a touring screen, etc. We mostly tour two-up and, as mentioned above, have done many kilometers that included some dirt roads and we use about half the fuel that our friends with their big bikes use. We tested most large adventure bikes over the years, but have not yet found a bike worthy of replacing the NC.

[@j7238]

100%. Another happy RE Himalayan owner and its exactly what I was looking for. It will go almost anywhere I can take a dedicated dirt machine (50 years riding experience, including rock gardens in Colorado at 13k ft). And the RE or similar class dual sports will still do reasonable miles on hardtop when needed or desired. Lighter and simpler is better every day of the week and twice on Saturdays.

[@franmitch3589]

Been on one for couple years now & it's better than my last few bikes

[@Hibbicon]

The Himalayan is almost 200 kg.

[@RichOxonard]

Since when is Himalayan light. It's a best.

[@mikerobinson8734]

Love my Himalayan! So glad to read your comment! Agree %100 the Himalayan does everything amazingly well and handling is outstanding off-road.

[@greengoat5654]

@@RichOxonard the Himalayan is super light feeling because of its incredibly low center of gravity. My KLR weighs probably about the same but is four times as hard to throw around

[@NevRS32]

As a product designer who used to work in marketing, not only you're absolutely right, as it also applies to every other product, be smartphones, cars, tvs or even digital products and services. We develop products that no one needs, and then we try to convince people that they really really need that thing. Not proud of that... xD

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks for your honest comment. I guess it's just business.

[@jeepinj4]

For what it’s worth, I own a 1090 Adventure R, my dad owns an Africa twin, I know it’s not ever going to be the fastest bike on single track but I’ve put 30k miles on it (in under 3 years), ridden across the country, out of the country, ridden single track in the middle of nowhere, I truly have had many adventures on it. I decided buying a bike with that much capability would test me as a rider and improve my skills and it’s done that quite well. It has a ton of trail rash and shows proper use. I really have crossed rivers, ridden over mountains, sand, mud, etc. You have a great point, it’s a big undertaking for a lot of riders, but so is hopping on a sportbike, 2 stroke dirt bike, or big Harley. There’s always more people encouraging you to try them then people trying to caution you. And to that I say riding a motorcycle is a dangerous endeavor, you throw caution to the wind every time you get on one, and if you’re not grinning ear to ear when you dump your 500lb $10k+ ADV bike you’re going about motorcycling the wrong way.

[@biscuitonabike4425]

It's Funny. I categorise this advice in 2 groups :- 1. You NEED the big adventure bike - From people who spend most or all of their time on road 2. You WANT a smaller bike - From Offroaders, who've had to pick up a bike 8 or 9 times a day, every day. Adventure is what you make of it, and if you're going places to see them, why do you want 100hp to fly past at 70+ ? You're supposed to be seeing places. I've go 68hp, and I never open full throttle, I do wind up the speed a bit, but can't recall going Wide open on the grip.

[@ShonkyProductions]

It's taken be a while to understand that the journey is more enjoyable at a slower speed.

[@tazpartridge1612]

Location makes a difference 😁 herein Australia the phrase "just up the road" can mean anything from 300m to 3 days ride. Horses for courses..... While we have some stunning scenery, three days of red dust and Spinifex is much more enjoyable at highway speeds In contrast, Tasmania is a state where travelling on a 300 would-be my recommendation

[@ShonkyProductions]

@@tazpartridge1612 You're right Taz, "Horses for Courses". I'm not trying to tell anyone what bike to get, just pointing out that you need to make your own choices, not just listen to the marketing hype.

[@bobbellendovich6825]

OCTOBER 2024: Itchy Boots building a 1987 Yamaha Tenere 700 for her next ADVENTURE.

[@MeerkatADV]

I generally agree with you, and definitely don't follow the hype of needing the biggest, baddest, fastest, heaviest bike out there. The middle-weight range is really where it's at for balancing off road capability and on road comfort. I have a Tenere 700 I expect to adventure on for the next several years and really like the balance they've achieved here.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Yes, I agree. The middle-weight ADV bikes are very close to being the perfect "Adventure" bikes. But, only if you can handle their size and weight. I have a mate who is 6'6" and he throws one around like an enduro bike. Enjoy your bike, you made a good choice. 👍

[@xcaceuk]

The T7 is a nice looking bike but way too heavy and also top heavy for solo adventure riding. 160kg or less is my ideal wet weight which once you add luggage is still considerable in muddy and Sandy conditions

[@gokulkrishm51]

Man, I really wish Honda would produce a "rival" to the Tenere :)

[@O_Xixas]

@@gokulkrishm51 they are working on it, a 750. However I still think the “perfect “ size would be a crf 450 rally, just like the 300 but on a 450 base. Or the 701/690 on the 500 platform with adventure kit, in other words a 901 on a 501 platform.

[@gokulkrishm51]

@@O_Xixas My ideal motorcycle would be a blend between the Africa twin and Tenere. There's no perfect motorcycle. To each their own.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Well said mate “ a WISE ADV traveler once said NO ONE ☝️ complains about smaller and lighter “ just bigger and heavier “

[@ShonkyProductions]

Haha... That's great. I hadn't heard that before.

[@zamdrang]

You nailed it. The definition of "adventure" is key. But we humans are suckers for marketing. My funnest times on motorcycles (adventures, touring and travel) have been on a 300, 150, 125, and 110.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Yes, I have found that when you are not worried about being restricted by a heavy bike, you just enjoy the adventure more. I now enjoy the slower pace as I get to look around and take it all in.

[@zamdrang]

@@ShonkyProductions totally agree, see more and spend less, win win.

[@peterholthoffman]

Yes! I couldn't understand ADV bikes until I started to think of them as touring rigs that can venture off-road without falling over.

[@ShonkyProductions]

That's a great explanation of these big adventure bikes.

[@cavscout43]

@@ShonkyProductions if they were marketed more as "Dual Sport Touring" bikes, I think there would be less marketing fluff (though obviously, "adventure" bikes sells, just like "overlander" bullshit 4x4 rigs do) I keep my Africa Twin away from mud because it's too tall/heavy, and the rear immediately breaks loose and tries to kick out from under you in the muck. BUT, for interstate cruising at 80+ miles / 130+ kilometers an hour on the highways, then hitting rock and gravel service roads to explore, it's sublime. You're never worried about dragging exhaust or cracking the engine casing from a random rock. Depending on how Honda handles the new Trans Alp, I may be downsizing from the CRF1100 to that 750cc build, but the trade off here in Wyoming is < 500lbs bikes are very easily blown off the highways. Even the big liter bikes can find themselves on the shoulder or getting pushed into the other lane by gusts.

[@AdventureGlide]

Great Video. I totally agree with the offroad capability of the smaller ADV bikes. But I'm a 300-pound dude riding 600 pounds BMW GSA. Even while getting my buddy's KLR 650 unstuck from the mud, the KLR seemed like a tiny bike. I've had a 2016 Yamaha Super Tenere and recently a Pan America Special in the past. I've had several dirt bikes like the WR450 and such. The most significant advantage bigger bikes have over smaller bikes is the extended range. I live in Northern Nevada. Nevada is one of the most mountainous states in the US. The average valley between mountains is 70 miles long by 15 to 30 miles wide. These smaller single-cylinder ADV bikes can quickly deplete a gas tank just getting from one mountain range to the next. Not to mention their comfort level at 80mph speeds. There are many scenarios that a Large ADV Bike outshines the smaller bikes except for the technical ability, of course. Most Deserts are enormous, and so are the bikes I like to ride in them. For myself, I'm going to look just as awkward riding a 300cc Rally with 5 gallons of gas strapped to the back as I do digging out my 600 pound GSA from a sand dune. LOL. Love the vid. New sub. Keep it up. On a side note, the Pan America is far from an adventure bike; it was a total POS that blew the engine at 5000 miles. If you get time, check out my vids.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Hi Adventure Glide, thanks for your detailed reply. I agree with you 100%... it's about people making their own choice about what best suits their individual needs, not what marketing tells them they need. The 300 Rally is certainly not for everyone, especially if you are a bigger guy. I'm only small and light so it suits me fine, while I can, and have in the past, ridden big bikes, the 300 suits me. I don't want people to buy a 300, I'd just like them to make informed choices. I have had a quick look at your videos... you have some amazing riding areas and I hope one day to get over there. I'll be watching more tonight. 👍

[@evertcleveland2578]

@@ShonkyProductions Sat on a 300 standard at a dealer and it almost turned into a hardtail. I think I had 2 1/2 inches of rear suspension left. However I only weigh about 250 lbs. These days however, it would not be safe to ride for me without spending 4k in suspension upgrades.

[@dirkbodschard3961]

You are right in every aspect. But it's hard to face the truth that the bike that we want isn't the bike that we need. And it's even harder to dream of an off-road adventure and realizing that the own skills are not sufficient for it.

[@mtscott]

I dropped my DR650 on single track the other day. Stood up and picked it up from the low side of the hill. 42 bhp…plenty. Smaller bikes are fun off-road but touring can be a bit uncomfortable. Bigger bikes are good for road touring but on dirt they are a pain. Everything is a compromise. DR650 is in the sweet spot for both. Always aim for as close to that as possible on the smaller side. 👍🏻😁

[@ronsexton3685]

I'm thinking the DR650 might be the sweet spot for me as well.

[@mtscott]

@@ronsexton3685 find a good recent model second hand one where the owner has spent a fortune on mods…it’ll save you spending 😀

[@mtscott]

@@ronsexton3685 Can't beat the DR - simple, effective, light, versatile and 1001 aftermarket accessories. The last bit might be a drawback! 🤣

[@RichardS-qh8mi]

Think my mind is set on the cf Moto 450MT - light, nimble and all the power I need as I get older.

[@adv_spokes]

Great analysis. In 2014 I really wanted a 6 speed DRZ400E. Say 500cc, 6 speed, 120Kg, long range, lower, better seat, v twin, small wind protection for the long hauls, good lights, adjustrable suspension, solid robust rear frame - the list goes on. The first 500cc Tiger (KTM, Honda or anything) modern dirt biased adventure bike not man nor mountain can kill and one person can pick up when loaded in hot sand, will sell like hot cakes. Particualy once the marketing team do their spin. Keep up the good work.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks John, I hope the manufacturers are reading your reply, because that is the bike a lot of us are waiting for.

[@gregjetnikoff7124]

With EFI! and a big tank. The single was fine for the dirt. Lighter.

[@megapet777]

Probably the closest thing to those specs currently is ktm 500 exc.

[@C_R_O_M________]

@@megapet777 which I own and I agree 100%. Moreover, few people realise that the power-to-weight ratio of the EXC500 is better than many 100+hp "adventure bikes". So it's faster, half the weight, with much better suspension and almost nothing to break when you eventually drop her.

[@megapet777]

@@C_R_O_M________ Yep it sure is awesome bike and really fun too. There's also ktm 690, bit heavier but it's pretty good choice if you aren't going into the absolutely gnarliest places.

[@chriscampbell7776]

This was great. As an American in the Philippines, I bought a little 125 scoot first. Does 95% of what I need, but I fell into a group of very experienced adventure riders and occasionally we end up in absolutely crazy off road situations, that we rarely know is coming. One of them sold me their Suzuki VStrom 250 SX. I ride it 95% of the time now and it can do *almost everything the bigger bikes can do. Skill and judgement does the rest. As mentioned, if you really play hard, you have to be able to pick the bike up. I can always do that. Soo glad I didn’t get a bigger bike. Great vid.

[@ShonkyProductions]

The 250 VStrom is a great bike. Enjoy your adventures!

[@edouardl2]

If you live in metro Manila, it is best to have a tollway legal bike. The vstrom is already 170 Kgs which is far too much for offroad and not tollway compliant. Good bike for Asia but not for Philippines unless you live in Palawan.

[@garykleinsteuber4529]

I've wanted a GS ever since watching them roost through the Sahara dominating the Dakar back in the day. Well I finally got mine (a beautiful red 2013) a couple years ago. I've been riding dirt bikes my whole life so I was quite confident in my ability to take it off road and headed to this big sand pit I know well from dirt biking. Ripping down the gravel entry road I was so jazzed for the epic Roosting I was about to do. Then I hit the soft sandy stuff with my 70/30 tires and images of expensive shiny parts bouncing and scraping along the ground ran through my head as this behemoth of a bike squirmed under me. I quickly turned around and headed back to firmer terrain. The GS is not a dirt bike. At first I was a little bummed but since then I have fallen head over heals in love with the bike for what it actually is. A comfortable, stable and powerful sport tourer that can do light off-roading and look totally badass while doing it.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Gary, A lot of us have done very similar things. With my Africa Twin, I was sold by the advertising of it blasting over sand dunes through the desert but when I took it on a beach, I couldn't wait to get mack to the formed dirt roads.

[@0xsergy]

that's just how ADVs ride in sand brother. I learned to ride my first motorcycle ever offroad on 70/30 tires in sand. It was exactly as you described, squirmy and all over. 400+lbs on the same size tires as your dirtbike means it will sink more, you just need more momentum to start "floating" across the sand. I'd suggest to try again. Find a nice deep sand pit where there is no damage to be caused. And maybe drop the tire pressure a tiny bit, 22F/26R might help you.

[@youngboomerragevictim8857]

Well it’s just a GS they don’t look that good

[@MotoRidesAustralia]

Great video mate, love it. Marketing is to sell people on what they could do, not what they will do! 😜 The problem for marketers is they have to sell the same dream to many people with different intentions so they instead have to be broad and just excite the potential customer with fancy images and visuals. It’s like lotto, they sell tickets based on what you will do when you win, even though you won’t.

[@ShonkyProductions]

That's a great explanation!

[@firesail6707]

It's pretty much the same for Jeeps and even Land Rovers that will never see dirt. The commercials a re great though.

[@RutwikGulakala]

You can do all that offroading with a 100cc bike called Hero Splendour. Big bikes are for men with low self-esteem and showoffs. Most you need in an adventure bike is 450-500cc with 50hp at most.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Right on. Anything more than 50hp is just wheel spin.

[@JM-dz4ii]

You nailed it. I did the same thing. The T7 came out, and I was head over heals. Less than a year later I sold it. Highway, and gravel roads, it was brilliant, but rough dirt roads, nope. Sure if I was a better rider, I could have gotten more out of it, but if I dropped it, which I did numerous times, I was in trouble. The first day I had my 300 Rally I took it to a rocky, muddy pitch, that had given me fits on the T7, and guess what, I rode right up it. Some of the big rocks I delicately rode around, some I simply rode over. I steered it into the muddy, rocky rut and both the bike and I laughed out loud. Yep, love at first ride.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Hi JM, thanks for your comments. I wonder how many people have had the same experience as us? Great choice you made with the 300 Rally. While it's not for everyone, it is perfect for me.

[@Ed00032]

Same here, sold the T7, too top heavy and not built to drop. Ordered a 701

[@xcaceuk]

Exactly 🎶

[@vwsyncro]

How do you rate the CRF’s mile munching capability? Can you ride it all day long?

[@ShonkyProductions]

@@vwsyncro With the SeatConcepts seat, I sure can. I have done several 300km+ days and a few 600km+ weekends.

[@jaygoodman156]

Had big bikes for years...then realized the most fun and enjoyment I had was on the smaller ones.

[@derweibhai]

100+ HP is real handy on mountain roads when you have to pass a damn motor home with 1/4 mile of backed up traffic behind it.

[@greatbethy]

Great video, I totally agree, I never understood those really big bikes going off road if you’re unable to pick them up on your own

[@ShonkyProductions]

Exactly!

[@wollongongbiker]

That's why Royal Enfield have hit the sweet spot with the Himalayan, sturdy, 25hp, good fuel range, and inexpensive to buy/maintain. The bike is built to go anywhere in India, so it can handle whatever I throw at it.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Sounds perfect. I haven't ridden one yet, but am looking forward to testing one in the future.

[@franmitch3589]

@@ShonkyProductions it's slow as for HP but the torque is what pulls it through most stuff & it's brought on at a low idle, done many trails on it, did sputter out on EXTREME inclines, & is very top heavy in sand & mud but everything else has been wonderful few other nit piks but out weigh by the good stuff

[@0xsergy]

a bit more power would be nice. the 400 should put out 30-35 hp but REs are old, slow tech.

[@0xsergy]

@@franmitch3589 i never gave mine the chance to sputter out. if it was an extreme incline i was hitting it at full speed, full throttle, and wheelspin haha.

[@franmitch3589]

@@0xsergy actually it's a new engine design

[@acepilotson3331]

Nailed it. I have a DRZ400S, been riding for 35yrs and the stock “dual sport” tires were absolutely treacherous off the road. With knobby tires it’s a true “adventure bike”.

[@vincentbeales3302]

Congratulations. Stating the obvious is just what's needed sometimes. As I've gotten older my bikes are getting smaller - I'm 64 and my next bike will be a Honda XRE300 or Yamaha XT250 in Brazil. Now there's an adventure - even getting the visa verified!

[@tonyg3793]

I agree: bike weight is overwhelmingly important on anything more 'off=road' than simple gravel. I had an ancient XR 200 and that thing would go down once a day but I could always pick it up and it never destroyed itself or me. As for the quality argument I promise everyone that a CRF 300 Rally is at least as well built and of at least the same quality as any Euro bike of any spec at all - and I am currently a happy owner of a BMW road bike.

[@martinfoster5163]

I've gone from BMW R1150GS to Honda Transalp 600V to Surron Ultra Bee. Each downsize saved me about 100kg. The Ultra Bee is 85kg and I can pick it up time and time again. It's not a travel bike since it's electric but it takes me on insane terrain that I wouldn't have dared on my previous bikes. The BMW's were a nightmare in Mongolia where I live, for Charlie and Ewan when the going to rough. Even the Honda Transalp got bogged down in the Gobi sands when I tried it. I became exhausted from picking it up and it's only a "mid-weight" adventure bike. For petrol bikes, I think a maximum of 250cc is probably okay but I look at weight first and 100kg is about the most I want to deal with. There's precious few motorcycles with petrol engines in that range. That's one of the reasons I went electric.

[@nelsondavis4310]

Every bike I ever owned was a adventure bike, my street bikes took me on many adventures on and off road.

[@ShonkyProductions]

That's exactly it... We decide what is adventure for us.

[@hodaka1000]

Not wrong.. my $25 1972 Hodaka Wombat 125 is on its fifth speedometer

[@sagheer.a4988]

You hit the nail. I have an Africa twin and love it. I grew up in a similar gravel roads in Pakistan where it was normal living. I can't imagine having a +500 lbs (or + 700 in case of a GS) bike and lifting it up lol.

[@Peter-ff1tp]

But the Africa Twin IS a 500+lb bike.

[@CurtisMaron]

All true. I have a Pan America. It is hands down the best bike I have ever owned. Great for long miles on paved roads and good on gravel and hard packed light off road or camping. However, if you plan on doing sand, mud and single track, you need an enduro, 300 to 800 max, but the smaller bikes are better. You also need to buy the right tyres and protection. You need to be realistic and buy the right tool for the job. Good advice in this video. 👍

[@ShonkyProductions]

I love your line "You need to be realistic and buy the right tool for the job". This is what everyone should be doing. 👍

[@thorstenwanoth6774]

Pretty spot on. For myself I am happy to stay with my 657cc XR650L which has been on a diet so it is pretty light. 149kg with a full Clarke tank and decent suspension too. There is more fun to be had with a lighter bike. I still rate the 650 class aircooled bikes as a fantastic compromise that combine decent power, suspension and the ability to do things from mild to wild.

[@ShonkyProductions]

I just watched a couple of your videos and your bike does look very well setup. Congratulations on a great build.

[@davidnobular9220]

Wow !! Nice !! That is lighter than my old XL500 wet weight !!

[@ShonkyProductions]

@@davidnobular9220One of my first bikes was an XL250!

[@ronsexton3685]

They do seem like a good combination. I am after about 40 years thinking of getting a DR650. (shorter seat height, 34.8")

[@MichaelJLong]

Bro 🙌🙌🙌 You’re making me feel better about my RE Interceptor with 47 HP and knobby tires. 😂

[@ripmax333]

why? you were unsure of your decision? Trust me, if you start to like going deeper into offroad you would soon buy even a smaller, lighter motorcycle. been there.

[@najaziz08]

Thank you for being honest and giving the actual riders view & not the sellers story.

[@ParagliceCayenne]

started with a GS1200, found out it isn't the bike I need, bought a Tenere 700, found out I lode it is not the bike for adventure, i am nie loving my Crf 300 Rally, 10000km with 60% Of road, and much more to come. i totally agree. all my bikes are great, but only the CRF I am capable to really find adventure without shitting my pants.

[@JohnRushworth]

Before the Adventure Bike term was invented we called them trail bikes in UK. They were usually around 125 to 650 single cylinder two or four stroke machines. Back then you just picked the tool for what you wanted to do, much as you have. Most of mine were either 400 or 600 cc four strokes. The latter being better on the road, the former better off-road. When it came to what I called extreme trail riding it was a cross between a trials and trail bike. In my case a 1986 Honda TLR250R. 6 speed gearbox, so it could cruise at 55 to 60 mph on road, topping out at 70, but still climb very steep rocks and slopes. Twin fuel tanks as standard with around 60 mpg imperial gallon. The second tank was where the air filter normally is, as the filter was in the headstock which allowed the bike to keep running even when the exhaust and seat were under water. Anyhow you get my point. These days however as I approach 70 I have an ‘adventure’ bike, but one with a 19” front wheel which has 2” less suspension travel than its more off-road orientated brother which has a 21”. So, my bike is just a motorcycle that can do gravel roads with my Dunlop Mutant tyres. That’s less than 1% of the time. What’s more important is it’s very comfortable on road, having way more suspension than a sports bike, a sit up riding position helps that too. The brakes are incredible, all of the above which I need for Scotland’s poorly surfaced tarmac backroads. Is it an adventure motorcycle? Yes, if you want it to be. It would take me around the world. To me it’s just a motorcycle, my 53rd one and does exactly what I want it to do at this stage of my life. It’s a far cry from what I started out on 55 years ago. If it’s got two wheels it’s whatever you want it to be…within its design limitations.

[@TrevorDodd-ev1sx]

I rode a Vespa GTS 300 from the UK to Azerbaijan. It crossed the mountains of Albania, Georgia and Bosnia without any problems. I took a wrong turn and traversed 80 km of a mountain range with severe off-road tracks with boulder and pit holes. Having a light weight bike where I could put my feet on the ground worked a treat.

[@vozspoz2020]

Goodbye 1250 GSA and hello CRF300L. I totally agree with your video, I am over trying to muscle heavy adv bikes thru tough tracks, mud & sand.

[@ShonkyProductions]

That is exactly what brought me to the smaller bike... not enjoying the ride because I was struggling with the weight of the Africa Twin. I could get through everything, but it wasn't enjoyable.

[@safetyfirst5917]

Totally agree. I really want a fantic caballero 500 as that seems like the perfect option for decent offroad ability but also fun on-road

[@ShonkyProductions]

Sounds like a great bike.

[@psjasker]

Great video! I came to my senses flat on my back under a KLR650 on a logging road 😂

[@ShonkyProductions]

WOW... that's one way to find out!

[@TomsTinkeringandAdventures]

I had the Yamaha Super Tenere, awesome touring bike that is capable of going on unpaved roads. I traveled a lot on it. After pushing it out of the garage a while back, I decided it was too heavy to enjoy off road. Got a KTM 690, think it’s going to do the trick!

[@HoraceFogsworth]

Love my Tenere 700 but on all the trails I take it on I usually pass someone who's got there first in the family car.

[@metalsadman]

😂

[@ShonkyProductions]

Adventure is what YOU make it.

[@alvk3996]

That's my experience as well lol... Riding through some Titus canyon in Death Valley... Passing a family of four doing the same route in a Rav4 :))

[@dank9288639]

@@alvk3996 meanwhile your out in the sun sweating balls and getting dehydrated lol

[@mikeisland7382]

Those Subaru drivers are pretty damn brave though.

[@CrepuljaVideo]

Cheers mate! The truth. I rode my 12 year Honda SH 300 through the hills, on stock scooter tyres 😂😂😂😂 and through dirt water and mud and had awesome fun 🎉🎉🎉 Ok, that's probably insane but it was 1000% fun chalenging myself to stay up straight... And I had nothing to lose... To me, ultimate all-round bike is Honda NC750 with offroad tyres... Low revs hi torque 54hp is perfect for offroad, and you can do 160 kmph on the highway for 3,8 lit./100km average... Cheers.

[@Rommi4x4]

I started my "adventure" some 20+ years ago on African Twin. First I thought I will never learn to handle or ride properly, bike was constantly stuck or on it's side. After years of try and regret I finally got myself much lighter KLX dual sport, which for me was more like a dirt bike and so much nicer to ride. Big bikes are travel bikes and hp is for highways.

[@mrdavies09]

Got a CRF250 Rally and it's the best bike I've ever had. Does everything I need it to and goes everywhere I want to go. I will admit it could be lighter but it's still manageable. Edit: One other gripe is the slipper ring in the clutch. I swapped my clutch with a CBR300 pack. The stiffer springs and lack of slipper lets you use a lot more of the low end grunt rather than top end power, which reinforces the point that you don't always need high power for off roading.

[@StarkeyFamilyVideos]

I live in Indonesia and 90% of the bikes are below 250cc. And yes you can have an adventure on any bike. I sold my 300cc benelli and upgraded to a Honda adv160 scooter. best desicion I ever made. great video and facts.

[@volksquadman]

Well said mate! =i still ride an 89 CR, same as i had 35 yrs ago, whats traction control?

[@durtyred86]

After watching it all, this is what I've come to realize for me personally. #1 I still love and want the Africa Twin. #2 The AT will be my adventure touring bike. #3 A light or medium bike will work best for my rugged off-road adventures. Something like the Honda Crf450L up to possibly the pending Transalp.

[@ShonkyProductions]

That sounds like the perfect combination of bikes to cover all bases 👍

[@harrygusman]

You made some good points there, if you do more off road than on road. But, less face it, most people ride on the road way more than off road. If you ride a V-twin or a Parallel Twin bike, you will notice the difference. Wayyyy smoother and more comfortable on the road. I tried CRF300L, it was OK but I didn't like it because it was too high and the suspensions were too soft. Then I tried CB500X and absolutely loved it. It's big enough on the road, but still can do off road really well. If my legs were longer, I would go for Tuareg 660 or Tenere 700. But I'm super happy with my CB500X.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Great choice 👍

[@Thatbeardedguy86]

Great comment. Everyone talking like every single person lives 5 min away from grueling single track. Or has months on end off work to take their time and never touch a motorway.

[@saharshmishra9982]

Go for a Royal Enfield bike........ you won't be disappointed 😉

[@wazzanose]

The latest Australasian Dirt Bike magazine, Issue 511, has a story on a home built CRF500L ADV bike, using a CB500X motor and a CRF250L frame. The result is a twin cylinder 500cc bike, with 153kg wet weight.

[@ShonkyProductions]

I haven't seen that magazine issue yet, but I've need following similar builds on ADVrider.com. It sounds like a great combination... If only Honda would build it at the factory.

[@wazzanose]

@@ShonkyProductions It's two of those builders on ADVrider that I interviewed for the story

[@metalsadman]

A klx/versys 400, with ninja 400 engine, now that's a killer bike even at 160kgs.

[@ShonkyProductions]

@@wazzanose Awesome, I better go out and buy that ADB mag!

[@warmad2596]

As a person looking to start riding and just got there endorsement less than a month ago... I was thinking about trying to get me an Adventure Bike for my first bike since they were higher in HP but have really been considering the RE Himalyan 450s as well but I think this video just cleared up a lot of stuff for me.

[@ShonkyProductions]

The RE450 is a great choice, 👍

[@orpaztron]

Totally agree. The closest to the ideal adventure motorcycle is the 701. In off road riding no one needs 70 hp but it's strong enough to enjoy pushing hard on winding roads. The downside is the pillion that can't enjoy the situation, proper windshield and the uncomfortable height . A little lower and comfortable and the 701 could be perfect adventure bike.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Well said. The 701 is pretty close to the perfect "Adventure bike"

[@niw-w1f]

@@ShonkyProductions i had the 690 smc-r and currently own the 890 adv r and the 1290. I think the 690/701 is the better dual when offroad is a big thing but distances on the highway also common.

[@RichOxonard]

I have 690, still heavy for offroad or trails. Unless you learned in smaller 250 or 350. If your trying to learn on 701 or 690 your done.

[@niw-w1f]

@@RichOxonard depends, sumo rider for long time. First bike was a 550 sxv which was tuned to 100hp. The 250/300 are amazing for technical trials but i can do it with the 690 and i guess a lot of people will be able to.. maybe with some additional effort. But you can still drive home over the highway, try that with your 250/300.

[@niw-w1f]

Oh don't get me wrong. If there is a more reliable for road use 300 i would instantly buy it

[@kendrom]

Totally agree. I grew up riding dirt bikes, and now have a Tiger 800. While I do love the Tiger (I ride on roads exclusively these days due to a back injury), I can't imagine taking that thing off-road and expecting good results. It's gonna get dumped...a lot. There are reasons that they make lightweight dirt bikes.

[@0xsergy]

i rode with a guy on a tiger and he did good. he had some decent tires on it though.

[@samuraidoggy]

I have Tiger 900 Rally Pro and go to offroad all the time. Granted, I dont have deserts anywhere withing thousands of miles where I live so I dont drive those, but small forest roads/paths are perfectly doable with it and I have dropped it less than 5 times in 20k miles. Mostly touring yes, but to me going long distances and spending 2 weeks on the bike with camping in wilderness all the time IS an adventure, while finding the hardest enduro tracks and testing my technical riding skils on it is NOT. I disagree with the video about the definition of adventure.

[@jimswms]

So funny. Just watching this 2 years late, but I call my 890 a dirt touring bike! Great video!!!

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks. You have a great Dirt Touring bike there with your 890 👍

[@nickyherault1817]

I rented a CRF 250 Rally while in Bali. It was a real sweet heart. Did everything I could ask of it. If anything they could offer an R model with upgraded suspension from their crf 450 X or L models and higher compression engine specs to reach the 40hp mark. I think they would sell a ton of them!!

[@LucaNestola_FILM]

I am considering switching from custom bikes (Harley Davidson in my case) to adv bikes, because I feel limited with a paved-road-only bike. So my off-road skill level is inexistent. This video was enlightening and will keep it in serious consideration when the time comes 🙏

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

Have a look at the Suzuki DR650. It weighs only a tad more than bikes that only have 300cc. Handles the highways just fine. I was running at 80 with stock gearing. I am considering getting a larger rear gear for a lower first gear. I am told it will still do 65mph just fine.

[@KittyCatMeowMeowTime]

Yes, do it! Remember weight though. Would you be devasted or mildly annoyed picking the bike up for the tenth time that day? Also, as the above comment mentioned the DR650 has a strong following for a reason. Another advantage of a dirt ike is that there aren't expensive parts to break on the exterior.

[@Peter79123]

Fantastic Video 🤠👍 Also on the way to change into a crf 250 rally. From a 690enduro ktm, and before the big gs.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Thanks Peter, I'm sure you will enjoy your new found freedom to explore wherever you want.

[@joelaugustin6407]

I got an nc700x as my first and current bike and the previous owner piled $2k+ in of mods onto it, mostly "ADV" mods. Most of what he added is actually useful but he only rode it 1500 miles over 7 years, so I'm thinking he had some aspirations that it's just not capable of fulfilling. It's a perfect commuter and cheap touring bike, which is what I got it for.

[@joeyvortex]

Sorry bro, I'm not a big bike guy, I prefer my 690 on almost everything, but I ride with a lot of big bike guys, and I mostly disagree with this video, respectfully. WARNING: rant ahead! Sure there are a LOT of guys I've seen, get the itch for adventure bike riding, they buy a huge bike, it's too much for them to handle and they give up altogether or downsize to a CRF250. That sounds like what you did, but you are presenting your experience as a universal truth. My opinion is those guys made a bad decision and weren't yet skilled enough for those bikes, or didn't have the determination to wreck and pick up the bike enough to get good. Or more commonly, they didn't accurately assess what they personally wanted out of a bike, where they wanted to ride, and made the wrong decision. Whether that was the brainwashing of marketing or a friends bad advice doesn't matter. It was their decision, and it didn't work out for them, regardless of how "marketing" swayed their opinion. I believe your intent was to get those guys to think more carefully before buying a bike out of their skill range, and while I support the intent, I disagree with the means and content. My opinion is they are "Adventure Bikes" and that not just marketing. These bikes are extremely capable to take you off road, across the country, up mountains, through sand. The only limitation is tight single track and rider skill level. Just because you put a cruiser guy on an adventure bike and he can't ride it, doesn’t mean the bike isn't adventure worthy. The bikes are capable to take you to places that you could never otherwise go, they can hold your tents and your food and take you up trails that 4x4s can't even get to. They are the definition of adventure in my book. But some peoples idea of adventure is a leisurely backroad ride through the woods, and thats cool, but to me adventure is challenging and tests you in ways you don’t get tested riding in a cage on your daily commute. You have to change a tube in the middle of nowhere, or fix a clutch lever with zip ties and bubble gum. Sure the bikes need upgrades like tires and stuff to handle harder terrain, but so does every dirt bike you buy from the factory. The suspension, ground clearance, weight distribution, indestructability is what makes these bikes more ready for adventure that anything else you can buy or build. Yes, you don’t NEED a big bike. You don’t NEED a bike, but with the proper training and skill big bikes are so much fun and I think you discounted that fact. They aren't great off-road, they aren't great on slab, but they can do both and are a blast, and that’s whats so cool. It's like having an amphibious vehicle that you can drive into the lake and go fishing off of. I don’t recommend big bikes to beginners, or people not capable of picking up a 500lb bike, but to blame the bike for being too big is like blaming the rifle for missing the target. Also, I don’t NEED 100+ hp… but I want it. The feel of the power delivery when I twist the throttle of a fast bike makes my checks clinch (all of them) and my face wrinkle from the giant smile that stretches from ear to ear. Yeah, I can have a great day of riding on my wife's CRF, but I enjoy the power of more displacement. I like to be able to hop on the interstate to make it to the next offroad section or cut off the trail early to haul ass to the camp site when a dust storm is blowing in. Power to weight ratios are important, and posting videos of guys with no clutch control spinning their tire, means they don’t know how to properly handle the power, it doesn’t mean that the power is too much to handle. This is all about personal preference. What do you want out of a bike? What is your definition of adventure? What is your riding skill level? Who are you riding with and where are you riding? I think you should relabel your video "My Personal Adventure Bike Truth" because your opinions are not universal. I respect your opinions and your experiences, but I also feel the need to defend adventure bikes and offer a different perspective for you to consider. Maybe no one will read all this, but I hope the OP does.

[@ShonkyProductions]

Hi, thanks for the detailed response, I appreciate all feedback. Yes, I have read your reply and you are correct, it is only my opinion. Your views and opinion are 100% correct... it's up to the individual to decide what makes "Adventure" and that can be had on any bike even the biggest offerings.

[@nicoleh.9568]

I read every single word and couldn't agree more!! It's like you exactly wrote my mind. Thanks for this! I love my 1250 GS and started to smile from ear to ear only reading about the feeling when twisting the throttle... so great!! 🥳 Btw... I'm a woman and only 1.68 m. Did some offroad training and will continue. It's a matter of training, will and trust in your skills. Still learning. And still loving it ❤. Next year I'll take my "big adventure bike" all the way from Germany to Bosnia, Montenegro and further to explore parts of the TET. Looking forward to it! Ride safe! 😊

[@pinopino1946]

Thanks for your time good comment

[@constantinosschinas4503]

@@nicoleh.9568 Get a bike that fits your size and skill. Thank me later.

[@nicoleh.9568]

​@constantinosschinas4503 😂 You don't know anything about my skills so keep your wisdom to yourself 😘

[@ashtonmarrero7932]

This exactly what I needed to see! I’m looking for a dual sport and ADV bike, tons of marketing with KTM and software upgrades . What I needed was the reality check and this video help assess the difference!

[@ShonkyProductions]

Glad to help. Just work out where and how you like to ride and choose a bike that lets you do that with ease.

[@wickedleeloopy2115]

I Use to own the perfect size adventure bike . TT/XT 350. I could do highway speed & I could pick it up when I fell of it off road. ... AHHH the good old days when 750cc was concidered large.. instead of midsize! A 400cc twin under 160kg will do just fine for me.

[@fredtracy3931]

I miss those days too!

[@wickedleeloopy2115]

I miss the old XT 350S & XR350s 😮

[@michaelmarkin1532]

It’s true. Went from a crf250 rally to a bmw 850gsa. I miss the Honda everyday for it’s simplicity lightweight and off road ability. I could go into way sketchier situations with the Honda. Probably going to sell the bmw

[@wileynowling]

Could not agree more. I bought the SA-R in 2017. Took it out on a singlr track a few months later. I nicknamed that day the 'trail of tears". After that i took it on long hauls and was able to take some dirt and forgotten roads on the Rockies. It handled that great. It was comfortable, powerful and agile. Put 48k on it until i traded it in last week for S1000XR. I realized i missed the gearing and geometry of a sport tourer. Big adventure bikes are probably the best jack of all trades bikes you can find. Marketing jerks are what they are. The bikes are great though for what they offer. If i eber choose to go back on gnarly back country trecks it will be on a 390. For now my XR can handle dirt and unmaintained roads just fine and its a hoot on the black top!

[@ferexx]

i always remember this interaction i had with a guy in a local bicycle shop after i came back from a 2 week cycling tour in Taiwan with my mates. i was there picking up a secondhand $500 bike and this guy was servicing his 2500 bucks bicycle. i had my cycling tan at that time and we struck up a conversation. we spoke about the trip i just took and the adventure it was. and i remember him saying that he wished he could go on such an adventure but it was too expensive. needless to say, i can't fathom why someone who spent 2500 on a bicycle cant spend less on the bike and more on actually riding a cheaper bike to more places. so some people just like the idea of a machine who can take them places but not really into actually going places.