⚡Ultimate Buyer's Guide⚡ USED Adventure & Dual Sport Motorcycles (2023)

[@BigRockMoto]

DOWNLOAD THIS GUIDE HERE (PDF): bit.ly/3Is9DnB 🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING THESE LINKS! ⚠Rocky Mountain Store: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚠Revzilla Store: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚠Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚠Amazon Store: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚠Merchandise : big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/ ⚠Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia

[@eldonhongo6095]

Can you please obtain a 2020-23. Honda CRF 450 RL and conduct your in depth, extensive review. Many need to know

[@The3osforos]

You are one of the nicest and more inclusive people. No discrimination, no new motorcycle bias just love for all motorcycles. Wish you the best!

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@adrianm.1910]

Also, one of the few North America-based reviewers aware of other markets.

[@alanprice9938]

Well said 👍

[@DUNEATV]

Exactly, this guy is great!

[@gregspace2]

Very nice

[@dutchup353]

I really appreciate all that effort you have put in this. Thank you for also including the metric system, lbs does not make any sence over here so it's hard for us to understand.

[@craiggillphotography8030]

Your huge amount of work is much appreciated. Great information. Thanks

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

Every outback, bush riding adventurer in Australia has owned a DR650 and modified it to do moto camping and some long trips. Can go 100 mph and weighs under 375 lbs. Huge aftermarket. 🤔Carb yes, but not hard to mod for more altitude riding or more power.. I like to fiddle with bikes and put on mods.

[@AHilton21]

Thank you for this! Looking for a fun bike in that price range and this helps a ton!

[@jrdepew]

You are an amazing asset to ADV riders. Thanks for the hard work put into this useful video. I have three of the bikes you covered and you are spot on in your analysis. The NC700 is a bike many never consider but should if gravel roads are their thing..

[@halfbaked_duke2709]

Wow, incredible guide👍

[@cv-vv5wp]

You missed a classic that they still make today the DR 650

[@mmuzikants]

Yamaha XT660Z Tenere

[@Alexb_1775]

Nice

[@mikemerrill175]

What else would I be doing at 3:40 AM but watching BRM ?

[@edtaylor6431]

You seem to be a KTM guy! I don’t think you left any of the KTM’s out of any of the price ranges. Personally I would never buy a KTM. They are very overrated in my opinion.

[@collectivelogic]

The fact that you take the time to put together hour plus videos, in a day where KZbin is preferring shorter, makes it obvious that you're doing this for all the right reasons. Your efforts, insights, and opinions are highly appreciated by us riders. This takes significant effort to research and concatenate for this many bikes. Stay true to your mission. We will continue to consume and support any way we can!

[@BigRockMoto]

thank you. it means a lot.

[@sercio994]

Seeing the V-Strom covered so many times gives you a prospective on how good that bike really is.

[@ne-adv]

I've been laughed at, with my DL1000XAL8, on some of the places I've taken it. Cannot go as fast over technical terrain; don't have the ground clearance nor suspension travel to jump and land the crankcase on a rock, but I've kept up, made it through, and not dropped it (mud is my exception, and one hidden log), and have had to help others who broke their bike. I wish the new 1050 DE had 1-2" more ground clearance. The additional 4" of suspension travel and 21" front tire will be a godsend. Now I need to come up with the cash.

[@sercio994]

@@ne-adv To me lowering the seat and setting an higher suspension (back and front) might be more than enough to have a real enduro Strom, i'll always prefer the 650cc version but the new 1050DE is pretty nice (altho i would immediately have the tubeless kit in the front wheel lol)

[@nicepartyfrog2564]

I want to add a small “nice to know” detail about the Moto Guzzi V85TT (which I have, together with other Guzzis). Starting 2021 they updated the engine giving it much more torque and smoothness at low RPMs, it is so much better than the 2019-2020 engine. Also starting 2021 it comes standard with tubeless wheels and other small improvements. Make sure it has the latest engine map available (august 2022), authorized shops can update it.

[@BigRockMoto]

great info

[@BlazinBlades]

Fantastic! Ian has the best most knowledgable audience 🍻🍻

[@goaheadmakeourdayscooterpe9644]

Been riding over 55 years and bought many bikes but never seen dealer bs markups as bad as my last bike. A 2023 KLX 300 that listed at 6099.00 + dealer addons of 1350 + state tax ,reg etc pushed it to 7949.00 out the door. So buying private party can save you a lot.

[@motokev2727]

Don't forget the $1k for shipping.

[@stevewalther2293]

Ya....but dealers buy the bikes sold privately....

[@bobbyrobbins9816]

Sadly buying used , you usually end up buying someone else’s problems. They are selling for a reason. If the seller won’t budge on the price, then you are probably getting a solid deal. If they are willing to negotiate down, then look out, JUNK alert.

[@realone6916]

​@@bobbyrobbins9816pl Change bikes. Check the oil. Pm can't ride a bike 100k miles

[@realone6916]

​😂

[@RandomGRK]

Its funny how the DR650 is still a better Adv bike than nearly anything from 2500 up to 7500

[@dothetontim]

Good luck finding a decent DRZ400S for $2500. I zipped to the 5K section expecting to see it there. Either way, it's the one to buy at anything up to $5-6K unless you want electrical nightmares with BMW models or maintenance on the KTM's. BTW anything with cast wheels shouldn't be on the list IMHO.

[@OlegAvdeev]

100%, no way in this market, any DRZ that is not old enough to buy beer goes for 4-6K where I am.

[@fretenborough]

Well done, Ian. Thank you so much for the work you put in on this one! It is so well done!

[@BigRockMoto]

My pleasure!

[@timothyangus954]

In 2018 I rode my V Strom 2nd Gen around the world, two up. 43,000 miles and no reliability issues. Tank range of 260 miles and really comfortable.

[@nicholasgilbertson7161]

That's awesome! 650?

[@timothyangus954]

Yes, I have a 2013 650 V strom. I have owned it since it was 9 months old.

[@kawabungah20]

Big Rock Moto is a milestone in modern moto journalism. That's why I'm a Patreon supporter and try to buy my motorcycle gear and supplies through Ian's links. We motorcyclists are fortunate to have such a resource as this. Thank you Ian.

[@robertlafrieda203]

You said a month full KK I couldn’t have said it better… I hunt down his videos hours on end and some I’ve seen countless times and when he bent his knee up Ouch brought back a bad memory of hyperextended of my own.

[@fullmetal762tm]

I would put the Himalayan on the list in the 5k range its really good for what it is.

[@lukefish7562]

Wow Ian! Another amazing job that only you can pull off like that. Got a couple CRF dual sports and getting first ADV bike next month in the Norden 901 Expedition and I’ve learned so much from you. Really appreciate you and try to support you however I can. Keep up the outstanding work and ride safe! 🙏🏽 🏍💨

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks!

[@SABAI15]

You create outstanding informative content. Iv'e recently watched a few of your videos and really appreciate your no hype no BS delivery. I will soon be returning to motorcycling after a way too long 15 year break. I have done quite a bit of research and I narowed it down to the Versysy 650, CB 500X KLR 650 and the V-Strom 650. I have decided on a V-Strom 650 2019 or later model. Really looking forward to getting back on two wheels again.

[@adventurehobbies1272]

I challenged you to find a decent xr650l for $2500. When I say decent...I mean that it's not wrecked, rebuilt or needs blood, sweat and $ to make it run well. Ready.... settt.... go

[@disekjoumoer]

I'd like to say something about the Versys. The first and second generation - 2007 to 2009 and 2010 to 2014 - are a LOT lighter than the third and fourth generation bikes. My 2009 model weighs 186 kgs dry, but the latest one is almost 15 kgs heavier. And it shows. The Versys is an extremely top-heavy bike. Add weight to that and it only gets worse. The vibrations on the first generation are so bad that for old buggers like me, they're only rideable with neoprene grips. The best ones are the second generation, where they fitted some rubber mounts to the engine.

[@judge831]

Can you do a sport-touring version?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I just want to know where you’re finding DRZ’s for $2500?! 😅

[@iray3242]

I picked up a used 2020 KLX 230 Duel Sport for $3500 that already had a bunch of mods. It's definitely a bike best kept under 65mph but it's more than enough to ride the back roads and most dirt trails. People buy these small Duel Sports as first bikes and then sell them with low mileage. At the very least you are buying what was already a cheap bike at a discount and minus the dealer fee's.

[@christianschild9603]

I love the VTwin engine of Suzuki. ❤ Got the SV650 and VStrom 650 XT

[@MrEtnorb]

Very easy to dent the rims of the 3 spoke wheels on the old Vstroms. Re the F800GS, the upper shock bolt would bend quite easily due to a terrible design. The pre 2014 690 would break valve rockers and probably caused the poor reliability record of KTM.

[@djolecar88]

I’ve finished my PhD this last June ‘22. I had time but a limited budget. I got a fully loaded (equipment) 2007 Suzuki V-Strom 650 with 78k miles. I’ve put 23k miles in three months touring the USA, off-road events and even took it to the track. I’m at 92k miles with it right now. I paid $2350 for it in Maryland. It had progressive rear shocks, front ricor emulator, for brace, sw motech guards, while luggage set, Corbin seat etc. a ton more stuff. This bike went to Black Bear Pass and went from ocean to ocean. It’s a beast. I went through two tire sets. Brake pad change once. Changed the chain once (my mistake from. It cleaning it well after the salt flats in Utah). Love the bike, will ride it as long as the engine holds up. No valve adjustments needed.

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

I've owned a few of the bikes on this list (Super Tenere; DL650; KLR650). Currently have the S10,, but I would definitely purchase another Vstrom if I were going smaller 👍. Loved that bike👍.

[@djolecar88]

@@PaydayGabeBCNV There is no point in selling my bike at this point. Would get pennies on a dime with this high mileage but the bike is in perfect condition. I'll just add more to the stable. Looking at a ktm 890r, 1290r or gs1250 tbd

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

@@djolecar88 ,, I understand that point 💯. As you said,, Ride it till the engine craps out. But that could be a while. Reliable as an Anvil they are. 🍻 Cheers, G.

[@karmasters]

Thank you for all your hard work! Most appreciated! 🙏

[@BigRockMoto]

My pleasure!

[@Boo65330]

Appreciate how much work this must’ve take .. well done .. keep the good content coming.. as usual

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks, will do!

[@Michael_Shay]

I'm pretty surprised there was only a brief mention of the CRF250l/CRF300l (regular or rally). Both of which are good bikes, especially for beginners. I'm biased as I own one but they can definitely be found in the $5k range. This is a great resource you've put out, will definitely send to friends who are searching for a bike. Thanks Ian.

[@robertlafrieda203]

A lot can be said about the Honda to start with addressing the washed out suspension if ur over 110lbs and like air and run WFO. A blast of $1,500 to possibly 3k and you’re fit for the best little endurance bike ever but not for the freeway. Mite as well put the DR650 New in that spot. Just my opinion…rob442

[@billstadelman4420]

Yamaha XT225/250, definitely. Great for shorter riders, or riders who just want a lower seat height, it's under 32 inches. Less than an inch taller than the TW200. Also the KLX250S and Honda CRF250L.

[@jl4091]

100% on the WRR.Never getting rid of my 2020.Great job sir.

[@glennmcgown5814]

Great vid Ian as always. I really like the format of this episode. I’m old and pedantic and would like to mention one small thing many KZbinrs and journos get wrong. A supermoto is a motorcycle. A Supermotard is the rider/racer of a supermoto.

[@graymangw6016]

The TW 200, all DRs, and the Honda XLs are expensive, 3k to 5k, in SW Wisconsin. I have only seen a couple CB500s out here and they usually are sold above 6k. There is also the versys 300x and bmw 310 gs around the 5k range.

[@davidmanuel1984]

I think you left out the Royal Enfield Himalayan…what do you think?? For the low price segment..

[@BigRockMoto]

Yep. Forgot

[@teemukeskinen8034]

Is the Yamaha XT660Z Tenere as common option in the US as it is in Europe? I bought a Ten as beginner bike last fall and I think its awesome machine 😃 very good 50/50 offroad vs touring bike

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

Sadly the 660Z Tenere wasn't available here 😢 . EU/UK get all the best machines..🤷‍♂️

[@RetiredAdventureRider]

Thanks for taking the time for this extensive discussion. Your advice at the end is spot-on. I went from an NC 750 to an Africa Twin because I wanted more off road ability. While I love the Africa Twin, and I've put almost 40,000 miles on it over 3 years, I'm now looking at a second smaller bike to really learn off-road skills, as well as taking a course. The AT is just too heavy to take a chance on, especially because the off-road options are limited where I live.

[@fuscavw1]

I have owned my AT for three years and picked up a DR650 last summer and now the AT mostly sits lol.

[@ronsexton3685]

@@fuscavw1 Looking at maybe getting a DR650 myself.

[@robertlafrieda203]

Anyone with 40,k under their seat is like a superhero and you’ll never retire I can see you at family gatherings on a little Honda 50 running to the lunchroom 😂

[@MeeLowTrapper]

Thank you for all the time and hard work you put into this video, Ian. You truly have a passion for motorcycles, your channel, and your viewers. I absolutely love your channel! Keep up the awesome content!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you very much!

[@lucasantes3687]

One thing to note with the XR650L, it is also easily lowered with a lowering link just like the DR650SE. One con is the countershaft spline wear due to no cush drive.

[@asnfjell]

I have the Suzuki 650 V-Strom and love it. As none of the new bikes coming soon has cruice control i don´t see myself buying a new bike anytime soon

[@FanOWater]

Great stuff, but your height doesn't matter it is your inseam. I have short legs for my height, other will have long legs. Cheers.

[@paulherron4289]

The V-Strom 650 is a bullet proof road biased bike that will get you anywhere. 100k miles is NOT a reason to avoid it. If it’s cared for buy and enjoy!

[@Duc1198]

Thanks Ian, Another excellent review. I'm so appreciative of your knowledge, frankness and honesty, it continues to be a pleasure to follow your channel. Well done!!

[@houseofroos]

Unfortunately most of your $2000 bikes are more like $4000 at present. There seems to be a price floor of about $4000 for something that is running and decent condition regardless of age. Nonetheless, this is a great video with lots of useful ideas 💡

[@BigRockMoto]

Good point!

[@noelbrown6771]

True! I've been on the lookout for a DRZ or DR 650 below $4000 in good condition. You can find 1st gen KLRs for mid $3000 range asking prices. New bikes look like bargains by comparison, but too many fees associated with many dealers in my experience.

[@mcearl8073]

I dunno about that, I’ve been looking for a KLR and at least with those there are plenty of runners for 2500 or so and I’m sure they’d take less. My issue is I can’t see spending 2500 on an old somewhat beat up 1st gen when for 3500 or 4000 you can pick up a really nice one and often if you don’t mind some mileage on one you can get one that comes with a lot of extra mods. I’m just stuck on whether or not the KLR is what I want. I can’t afford much more and still being able to ride on the street is pretty important and potentially 2 up on occasion. The Vstrom is appealing as well but it doesn’t look quite as off road capable.

[@houseofroos]

@@mcearl8073 Check out a Versys-X 300. There aren’t a ton of them out there but they pop up for sale regularly.

[@mcearl8073]

@@houseofroos I just looked them up, there’s a few for sale in my range, that looks like a definite contender. I think I might see if I can find a dealer with some of these and at least sit on a few. I do want something on the smaller side, I’ve had a Concours for the past 14 or so years and find myself not really riding it for just small running around town errands or even taking it out for shorter rides, it’s just very heavy and hot in the summer and I don’t have all that much fun at lower speeds. I’m still going to keep it though, it isn’t worth much so there’s no point really in selling it.

[@linusdegrell]

Great stuff and very informative! This is moto journalism :) Your (and MAD’s) review if the KTM 390 Adv made me buy one finally. Cheers 🇸🇪

[@BigRockMoto]

Great to hear!

[@wendygerrish4964]

Good choice.

[@oliverhuddlestone1213]

Perhaps a little niche, been riding an Aprilia Caponord ETV1000 for years and it's an incredible bike, fantastic Rotax plant and amazing chassis.. not the tallest bit good for lighter offroad stuff and not many left... £2.5k here in the UK . Newer Caponord 1200 also an option? Around £6/£7k

[@dstubby82]

14:55 Everyone always forgets about the XT225-250 for those segments. 😁

[@maxw576]

The amount of info in this video is impressive and timely for me. I'll have to watch again and save a link to it. Great effort and result! Thanks.

[@LBRides]

You nailed the Tiger 800 xc. I have a 2014 and taken on some trails that I shouldn’t have and it handled it ok, but very top heavy.

[@taraskorolyov6316]

what about reliablility of KTM? Issues with crankshaft i s not a joke:((

[@keithmosseyklr650]

Hello Ian, Thankyou so much fort this vid. I just sold my Goldwing and am going to Adventure models. Really informative and learned a lot. Thinking of the KLR650. Then a 2024 used Africa Twin ES DCT adventure sports in the future. Great channel.

[@damerowr]

Awesome content, as always. Must have take a ton of time, but it shows. Great work! This is nit really on topic, but I wish BMW would re-make a smaller displacement boxer engine again, much like the original R80GS. I love my 2014 R1200GS, but I can see the utility of a lighter (much lighter) smaller boxer motorcycle. I love the torque of the Boxer design and the ease of maintenance!!!

[@BigRockMoto]

totally agree

[@Ijusthopeitsquick]

I agree 100% Gimme an oil cooled, 190 kg, 650cc boxer with 50 hp for €11,000 and I'll be all over it.

[@wendygerrish4964]

650 for moi too. I aglee.

[@ferkuzuel]

Great video! Thanks Ian for the work and passion that you put in to this videos👍 One advantage of the pre 2013 f800gs is that weights only 454lbs also the simplicity of the bike works towards it's advantage as it gets older

[@stevewalther2293]

I got the go to all around Ford Taurus bike....the Suzuki C50...mint condition $4,000...6,000 miles...it's a very comfortable bike...

[@diogenes9809]

I own an f650gs dakar. Its the ugliest, worst sounding bike ive ever owned. I will never sell it though. It's remarkably good offroad, amazing fuel economyn quiet (sounds like a sewing machine) and has been dead reliable for the 6 years ive had it. I would recomend one to anyone in the market for a klr. Its basically a lighter, smoother, faster, klr with upgraded suspension and fuel injection. If you can get past the sound and the looks its an amazing 650 class bike that can be had extremely cheap. I bought mine for 3500 cad and as of 2024 they are still that price on marketplace

[@davidmanuel1984]

Ian!! You are my first choice when looking for a review!! Thank you so much for your work!! Amazing!!

[@johncarter9964]

I actually find that reaching for the front brake makes me automatically roll off the throttle, even if I started off in the “wrong” position. Also, another throttle tip might be to stop the blip. In other words, keep a steady throttle in most situations. IMO. Enjoyed you tops.

[@filo1908]

I know i'm a little bit late but i wanted to point out another "nice to know" fact about the F800 gs. You can find used F800 gs Adventure which featured longer travel suspensions, a different design to have more confort while touring, a bigger tank (450km-280 miles without stopping for gas) for about the same price, it's like a cheap R1200 gs adventure with a lot more off road capacity and less HP, i own one since 2020 and i'm deeply in love with it!

[@salvadorruiz1830]

Thanks! I was ready to buy a GS 1200 for my first Adventure bike. After watching your video and end comments. I'm thinking more of a f650gs or 850gsa. What do you suggest as my starter adventure bike. I've been on a Gold Wing for many years but I'm ready to experience the back country nothing crazy, service roads, etc... Keep doing what you're doing it definitely helps people like me to make a more financially sound expense.

[@captsam54]

I own a 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F... Love it.. If I was to buy another more Road/ADV bike... it would be the 390 ADV...

[@iansmart3979]

Another amazing video, able to get to the basic nature of each model very quickly and efficiently. Personally I am fortunate enough to be able to own two bikes, a ist gen 650 v strom with revalved and appropriately spung forks and a fully adjustable wilburs shock. As you know it is an amazing tourer and easy dirt road bike. I also own a 2014 dr 650 with full engine protection and respung and valved forks and standard shock. I am a primarily road rider trying to get into offroad adventure style riding, my main problem is not enough time to ride. I would like to say however with regards to the DR that it is extremely easy to work on, for example major services checking and resetting valve clearances are extremely simple whereas I baulk at doing the same for my strom.

[@robertlafrieda203]

Dr. 650 yes sir yes sir my choice bike desert racing. Only problem I ever had to date was the smog regulate fuel valve feed to carb. Fixed on spot and ran it to the end of week to replace it with a new one. And springing the front end is a must at 80mph running over desert shrubs like a Cadilac!! Almost as good as my old WR 390 husky CR Now that was a bike bike No street war machine

[@YourLocalRaccoon]

I got to the beginning of the $7500 mark at 34:00 and i just had to stop. You made an excellent video with excellent points (except you cannot find a good dr/drz/xrl for inder $5k). However...i just cannot watch any more with how often you have to stop to swallow. Dont get me wrong, that pause doesnt bother me, its the loud ass SMACK sound you make right after, thats what gets me. Its so jarring i cant help but focus on it and it aggrivated me more and more each time. Keep in mind THIS IS A ME PROBLEM NOT A YOU PROBLEM. Please ignore me, im a jackass, my brain wont let me *not* post a comment on it seeing as nobody else did. Please ignore my comment! Again great video, great points, but i just can't watch any more. *SMACK*

[@nickmayfield6951]

Another awesome video Ian, great work. Was so glad to see you included the BMW Dakar. I'm currently rebuilding one in my dark messy garage. Would have liked to see an early Multistrada 1200 in the list. A lot of bike for under $10k. The S version even has ohlins electronic suspension. Thanks again! 👍👍👍👍

[@5_C_G]

I'm trying to buy my first adventure bike. I won't be doing off road riding too often the first year but I still want the capability for future use and longevity. I'll be doing more long-distance riding the first year. What bike you would recommend, yamaha tenere 700, BMW F850gs, or Triumph tiger 900 GT Pro at a 7,500 to 15k price range?

[@danielhristov6175]

Hi I’m 5f9” 😂 My first bike EVER was a 1991 XR600R 😂😂😂 Best learner bike ever 😂😂😂😂

[@ZeLogicnator5k]

As much as I loved my 1190, avoid them imo. Fuel gauge, Fuel Pump, Ignition failures. But the biggest problem imo, is the placement of the air filter. The stock air filter was not sealed well and required an after market upgrade, not a huge deal as other bikes have the same issue. The air filter....one of the most important maintenance items if you are out in the dust and dirt....is under the tank. You have to remove the entire tank. Dealing with it out in the field, if you want to replace a prefilter for example, is just super annoying. Also top heavy and you sit in the bike vs. on top. But... It is crazy fast and super fun to ride...it is a KTM after all. But my 17 701e is way, way more fun. A little sketchy on the highway at high speeds, but so much better off road and no issues after ~10k miles. Looking to get a mid class adv (890 vs 901 vs T700) for 2 up so this info has definitely saved me time. If the 701e is a little too much, the 500/501's and 350/FEs are great bikes, but the maintenance intervals are low (~433 miles) for something like a BDR depending on logistics.

[@jakubpetricek5012]

For Europeans, as a proud owner of Honda Transalp 600 or 650, I need to mention this model. It has better offroad manners than traditional rival V-strom 650 thanks to higher ground clearence and 21 inch front wheel, also 28° steering angle. Although, it is on the heavier side and power does not compete with modern midsize ADVs. But it is pretty good on highway or longer distances thanks to V-twin engine, great stock sound as well. The prices on the second hand market are really affordable, around 3000 USD, plus you get the Honda bulletproof reliability.

[@waynehollins1193]

My 1999 klr 650 brakes is fine , headlight bulb is bright 🌅 , due ( H ) I never check ✔️ 2500 miles im good so far

[@augustbrante8117]

I really want a KTM 790S or 890 S But where I live in Medellin 2020 790 Slightly used is listed for $13k, 2022 890 R is $16k. KTM in Colombia bought all their inventory when the peso was at an all-time low and won't order any more until they sell their inventory bcs they panic bought. Kinda sucks! Any ideas would be helpful. I have a great street bike But just joined an ex pat riding group and most of the rides at least a portion is on gravel roads and my bike is just too darn pretty for that

[@AdventureMiles]

I’m Seattle-based and looking to do some off-road riding. I currently have a 2017 Vstrom 650, but I would like to upgrade to something more capable off-road. I would like to get something smaller/lighter, but will need to ride at least an hour at interstate speeds to get to the trails. Any suggestions for a more off-road capable bike that wouldn’t feel wound out at those speeds?

[@totalglitch]

So I've been looking over used bikes, I found a 2018 701sm for $7000 with 1200 miles. And I have a chance to get the t700 out the door for $10,400, I do have short legs tiptoe on the t700 but can rode it. Does the 701 just as reliable as the t700? 50/50 road and back roads gravel nothing major. Thanks for the help

[@bradbarrett6323]

People say the DRZ400 is reliable, but mine died with the teeth of some internal gear breaking I think, While I was going about 50mph on my way home from work in the middle of the night at like 1 am about 10 miles from home. It also had a weird death wobble at high speeds. I bought the KTM 500 after that. Long distance I can't do the narrow seats however, and I hate how so many lighter bikes don't have good luggage racks. My Tiger 1200 was probably the best commuter bike I've had but I'm getting something in the 800cc range next for weight off road, but still being able to use my hard luggage.

[@liambingham4230]

Thanks Ian, even for a buyer in New Zealand this was super helpful. Really enjoy your videos mate. Do you guys have the XT660X over there? There are a few available here at reasonable prices and I'm wondering what your thoughts are on that model.

[@Robertorossell]

Hello, first I woul like to say thanks for all your videos, I would like your opinion, I use to ride a small bike a 200cc naked bike. I am consider to get back after 5 years with no bike, I am considering tiger 900 I am 1.72 mts tall or 5.7 feet, so the non rally tiger allows me to put both feet in the ground, but there is a especial offer here in chile and the rally versión is a better price. My 2 questions are should I go for a smaller bike (5 years no riding) and the second one should go for the rally even if a can not complete put my feet on the ground. Thanks in advance

[@paulrodriguez3643]

Im up here in Colorado altitude anywhere from 6000-10000ft, looking for a 2up bike for camping hitting some dirt roads and pavement,tux

[@hassosigbjoernson5738]

I bought a 2017 V-Strom XT (3. generation) in late 2021 for 6.500 € with losts of accessories! I really like the 3. gen most because it also looks way more modern and 800 GS/ Tiger-ish than the older models! Off-road capabilities ... well let's say they scale with it's rider. ;o) I've met some Ténéré 700 riders that'll do worst off-road than me on my V-Strom. That's why you excellently summarized it at 16:27. And since I bought it mainly for traveling, I am very happy with a more comfortable choice with which I go a bit slower on bad side roads and light off-road also because with luggage I am more in a holiday mood than in a racing scenario. The weight can be a problem, but it's better distributed than on the top heavy T7 i think! Also with the much bigger fuel tank it evens out when T7 riders bring extra fuel with them. It has been made obvious with the T7 World Raid Edition: with some bars and a bigger fuel tank it suddenly weighs even more than the V-Strom 650 XT from 2017. All in all a good summary! I would recommend to buy a V-Strom 650 XT anytime (especially 3. gen) and since I already have one my favorited used bikes are the 2017 Africa Twin and the 2015 Tiger 800 XC. From the newer bikes I would also consider the beautiful Guzzi V85 TT, which could be a really classical option to buy used and keep forever. Norden 901 and Transalp should also convert into solid used options when their price tag falls below 7 grands and someone also wants to travel with them.

[@The_RC_Guru]

You left out the Honda monkey! 😂. Kidding mostly but i did get one and for less than $1800 more it’s fully kitted out for adventure riding. Suspension to racks and cage and skid plate. But good luck over 55 mph.

[@roadkillbbq686]

Ian, you have created one of my favorite KZbin channels. Easily my favorite motorcycle channel. Thank you so much for all the time you put into all of your reviews and this video in particular. Have a great day, and keep up the amazing work.

[@BigRockMoto]

Wow, thanks!

[@ronswihart176]

What about number of miles on odometer. Say 2007 bmw gs 1200 with 105,000 miles for the under 5k

[@psalm2forliberty577]

How many V-Strom 650 fans in the 'House' ? Thumbs up to help count. All the ADV vloggers like Ian here convinced me to consider one. 10 days into ownership, I'm a believer, this is one amazing machine. Details: 2008, Grey / Black V-Strom 650 with 12,900 miles, immaculate condition, garaged never dirt driven for $3650 from a used motorcycle dealer, this July 2023. I'd call it an outstanding value. I am moving up from a Suzuki Burgman 400, and had noted many guys on the Burgman forums also listed this bike in their signatures. NOW, I know why...

[@Panza1965]

CFMoto 650MT Adventura $5000 ($6500 new) the 800MT (790KTM engine) in Australia $10000

[@gladiusthrax4941]

This list is a treasure. I am actually considering buying an old and inexpansive off-road capable ADV. I have had my eyes set on a F650GS Dakar, but have been fearing that I have missed some good options on the market. After watching this, I am certain it's the bike I want.

[@casperdaghost7836]

I think ur videos r great. Keep em up. Haven't started riding but I do want to and I'm trying to learn b4 I just hope on. Already know how to drive stick so I figure it will b a bit more natural

[@kannermw]

My advice to anyone buying used bikes is to avoid those that have been obviously ridden extensively off-road (complete with noticeable battle scars) and I do not mean dirt or gravel road. One mile of off-road is easily equivalent to 100 miles of road use. If a bike has modified suspension for off-road I'd take that as a huge red flag not a benefit and walk away unless the price is right and the condition of the bike is excellent. Individuals who need to do such modifications ride more aggressively and treat their bike accordingly. Cosmetics matter as they are indication of how much previous owner(s) cared for their bike. If it looks bad on outside then imagine what is potentially hidden inside.

[@barrymurphy3554]

Fantastic reviews thanks very much appreciated all your time & experience. Thanks from Australia

[@GRiNGO-ADV]

didn’t make your 2005 cut, but dr350 better than dr200, don’t you think?

[@jamesshepard7544]

I bought a 2006 VStrom 650 a few years ago and love it. I just today cut some single track on my property for practicing. My biggest complaints are the lack of ground clearance, seat height (I'm tall) and lack of aftermarket parts (like foot shifter.) It's great on the road and fun on the dirt roads with great fuel mileage. It's up to 34,000 miles and still running great.

[@ADobbin1]

Where I've seen the vast majority of used bikes for sale are harley cruisers. Thousands of them. I've seen maybe 4 used ADV's in the last year and they were all less than 2 years old. Might as well buy new given how similar the used ones are to new prices.

[@motokev2727]

I agree, v-strom is the best bike for the price. I see v-strom's 1000 for $4k. I'll never sell mine for that price.

[@einarlvseth9628]

Thanks for your excellent information and tips! You Are worth listening too.👍😇👌

[@MJW59]

For whatever reason it's taken me a little bit to warm up to this chanel but I just wanna let you know you are doing a great job. This was a no fluff guide, well thought out and informative. I can see you've put a lot of work into this and it's appricated. It's nice to see an actual MOTORCYCLIST doing MC reviews on YT. Great job. I do wish you did more street bikes, I think your no nonsense approach is valuable in any part of the market.

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@7x779]

Good luck finding dr650 or any of those other bikes for 2500, you're lucky to find one for twice that price around here

[@nighthawk695476]

Great video, rewatched many many times. Waiting for the 2024 one 😊

[@EJuliusF]

Are bioes really expensive over there? You can get a kym 790 adventure for £9999 new in the UK