Real men shake hands. 68 here and still riding. In my 53 years of riding (about third dirt) nothing makes me happier than riding. I still have the trail bike I had in high school. It's in its 7th rebuild now. Bikes keep me young. I don't do Trials riding or Enduro trails anymore. I chose the Super Tenere because I am more comfortable at doing 50 on a dirt road vs a Goldwing or Harley. I am thinking about down sizing, but I still like the Ten for its ability to take me down the roads I still have the courage to do. I may be in an old body, but my mind is still young.
Shook a hand yesterday, going riding today. The Super Ten was a good answer to my '07 KLR but my Tenere700 is the slim, quick, smooth, quiet answer to both. It's a 70 hp Mtn bike happy at 80 on or off the hwy.
Last July my 16 y/o son and I rode our dual sports from Reno, NV to Colorado Springs, CO. We mostly took 2 lane highways and some dirt roads through deserts, mountains, canyons, farmland, and national parks. Great memories to last a lifetime.
Time, money, energy. People usually only have a relative abundance of two of those things. Very young people might have time and energy, but no money. Then we have money and energy, but no time. Later in life we may have time and money, but relatively less energy, and dual sport riding fits well into that I think.
Turning 70 - been riding for 60 years.... started racing motocross at 10. Just spent a lovely fall weekend out riding the mountains around Banff Alberta on my Honda 250 enjoying the amazing fall colours! Nature and bikes - never gets old. The new Beta 500 RRS is my 70th birthday present to myself....Great piece you posted
It truly is. I started racing when I was 13. Family owns a dealership so motorcycles have been almost every part of my family’s life since 1937 when the dealership got started. It’s just one of those thing regardless of what life is throwing at you. All ya have to do is get in a bike. Any bike. I love choppers bobbers. Customs. Stock. Vintage. Dirt. Road. They all offer unique experiences. And I love them all. Just turned 45 this year and got my first dual sport lol. So I guess this video is valid
I am an New Jersey born native with Puerto Rican heritage and in my 30s. The way the elderly people are thought of in the U.S. bothers me. Calling people old as a negative term. I was always taught to respect, honor and admire the older ones for they have the knowledge of life that we can all hope to reach one day when we too become"old". Honor those great Men and Women while we still have the time with them on this earth. "Honor thy father and thy mother" God commands.
It used to be that way here as well, until that certain "tribe" of bagel eating globalist imposters completely bought out our govt and media. They hate us and want nothing but division, death and destruction so they can enslave the rest of the dumbed down peasants who actually believe their nonsense propaganda.
Same here man. I to do not subscribe to agism and i never have my dad was in his mid 50's by the time i was out of highschool and he could work circles around me lol never even started to slow down until he was almost 70. and he never talked about age..i mean like not even once. I always believed that was part of his secret. He never wanted to slow down and he never brought up age.
I am that Old(62) Guy Adventure Rider and I have a 2022 CRF450RL. And as you mentioned I also have a 2021 Goldwing Tour DCT and a 2021 R1250GS Adventure and a 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R. So to answer your question. It’s my hobby and I enjoy the heck out of it and at my age I can afford it. Kids are all grown and I divorced the wife 6 years ago so I have no one telling me I can’t buy bikes. On a different genre I also have a sport bike, a HD and a scooter. I like to say I’m a well rounded rider in more than one way(Dad Bod)
@@PapaDougsAdventures01 I’ve got a year on you (63) and the R1250GS is in my garage. That’s a great selection you have. Ever got a hankering for the old two-strokes of your teenage years?
@@PhilbyFavourites absolutely. My brother had a 250 Elsinore and I loved it. I think one of those or the 125 could be in my future. The CRF450RL that I just bought has everything you could want for my skill set. I’ll probably get the Elsinore just because
@@PapaDougsAdventures01 “just because” is a great reason. But I actually meant road going two strokes. My 17 year old self ran around on a KH250. But nowadays I would love a ’75 RD350B
I love it. Great video. At 58, i am thinking about buying a dual sport to ride from Canada to Mexico. Awesome thought. Big change from my 100 cc enduro when i was 15, or my Harley Sportster cruiser when i was 50. But a very exciting dream, that i think i might do, and very soon! Appalachian Mountains from Montreal to Nashville, West to Texas through New Orleans, then South through Mexico to Chiapas, where i now live... Yee-ha!!! :)
Agreed! And the addendum to that is “You never see a motorcycle parked in front of a psychiatrist’s office”. Throttle therapy is good for the mind and soul. 😁
Started out last year at 50. 51 now and riding my dr650 every saturday mornings out in the woods/fields. I agree with everything you said 100%. I would also add that dual sporting, esêcially off road is a great way to get an adrenaline rush without doing crazy speeds. Loved the vid. Subscribed
Perfectly stated! The DR650 is the "Swiss Army Knife" of motorcycles and it will take you where you want to be. Congrats Man on your awesome bike! Cheers!
Nice one!! My take at 51 and an old Yamaha sponsored rider is this. We are all athletic, have disposable income, kids aren’t babies, a desire to keep moving. Yes I still prefer my MTN bike and Gravel, but knowing that I can go exploring further on my 2022 45O RL provides me with multiple options. A body in motion….stays in motion. Love the riding videos as you know 😊
Oh my, I resemble the findings of this video. 61 here, my history is I have owned a dirt bike (if my 1st bike, a Honda CT-70 counts) since I was 11 years old. My work life has been pretty stressful over many years, if not for my motorcycle escape I would have gone off the rails years ago. Had an XL600 back in the late 80s alongside the dirt and sport bikes. Lived in Long Beach at the time and the XL was so much fun, I actually sold it as I did way too many 5 gear street wheelies on it, and was constantly running from the cops. It is remarkable how "slippery" an aggressively ridden XL600 can be in an urban environment. Going over the median and cranking a wheelie in the opposite direction was a favorite taunt / escape move. Oh boy, were the cops pissed. I knew my luck would eventually run out and sold the XL before the cops caught and beat the living sh%t out of me. Being young and good at wheelies, I simply could not do them while riding that XL. Lots of nighttime "urban enduro" on that bike too, up and down concrete stairs, jumping truck ramps, etc. Good times! Moved on from the XL to my "safer" Ninja 750 where the wheelies were few and far between, and criminal speeding was the only real danger to my license, and my CR250 dirt bike. Did some desert / off road racing on the CR, still do race off road occasionally in the old man class on my 300 XC. Back to the dual sport "issue" I replaced the XL with a DR-Z 400 which I modded the Hell out of, The DR-Z was a good bike, a mere 6 speed WR transmission away from true claw hammer reliable dual sport greatness, but damn it, the DR-Z wouldn't wheelie for me like the old XL600 did. Got kinda bored with it and sold the DR-Z and focused on my street and dirt bikes for many years. My current street bike is a Super Tenere, while technically an "adventure" bike I regard that big lovable pig as a long range touring bike with dirt road and paved road pothole capable suspension. In addition to the Super T, I still had the aforementioned 300 XC and a '10 Husaberg FE450. Even with these 3 bikes, I felt a gnawing hole in my collection of motorcycles. So, being 61 and since I was able to swing it, I recently bought a new Husky 701 Enduro, which I proceeded to mod the Hell out of with the Rottweiler power goodies, stiffer fork springs, Yosh can and bolt on bling. The 701 is stupid fast, mostly glassy smooth with it's twin balancers, and well suspended with XPLOR bits front and rear. My 701 is as good as my rose colored glasses enhanced memories of my old XL600. Even with a reported 70 some odd horsepower on tap, I can't wheelie the 701 like the XL back in the day, but 2 gear 1/8th mile long jobs come pretty easy for me on it, which is about all I can reasonably expect at this point in my riding career. Being older and arguably wiser, I am a lot more discriminating about where I pull wheelies on the 701, so my chances of landing in jail on it are a lot less than back in the XL600 days. Best of all, the go anywhere good enough 701 has really re-ignited my desire to explore. I live in Colorado and with the state's abundance of scenic and sometimes pretty challenging 4x4 trails and of course my usual dirt bike trails, I am having a really good time "dual sporting" on it. Now I just need to suck some of my dirt bike riding buddies into the dual sport madness! My light and snappy 300 eggs me on to haul ass. In contrast, on the big dual sport 701, it is fun to just go for a ride. The 701 is cool, as I can still be quite "frisky" on it while off road, and it is a serious weapon on a twisty paved canyon road. While out on the 701, I was on a challenging 4x4 trail with a big steep granite face, the 4x4 guys were cool and waved me up as the trucks were slowly making their way up it and one had just cleared it. They had spotters all up and down the hill. Naturally I rode a fat wheelie up that face, Yosh exhaust can barking merrily. Does a tuned high compression 693cc single with a Yosh can on it ever bark merrily! Oh ya - it is the king of "braap". It is not annoying, nothing raspy, just deep, full bodied and, when on the gas, serious. There was a pretty 20 something girl at the top of the hill who was quite impressed by the shenanigans. She asked me about the bike and thought the whole thundering up the hill while riding a wheelie episode was bad ass. This despite the fact that I am old enough to be her Dad. That exchange made my day, as it is priceless to be an old dude like me who is seen by a pretty young thing as cool, as nobody has looked at me as cool in at least 25 years 😆
I bought my first bike when I was 20 years old and it was a 250cc dual sport, I was initially attracted to sportbikes but I thought starting in a "do it all" bike would be a good idea to learn skills and the basics of riding, oh boy I did and I discovered how magical is to ride motorcycles, I remember going alone sometimes to get lost on the trails, there I found peace, I remember myself riding for hours then switching off the engine to watch the sunset and the only things I could hear was my accelerated heart pounding and the engine cooling down, there was nothing out there but me and the bike...
Spot on!! I’ve never left a comment before but feel compelled to do so. I’m 46, self employed, and have worked way too much my adult life. Proud of where I am but lost ability to balance work, family, and fun. Had dirt bikes as a kid and a 93 Dr350 for years that ended up sitting and collecting dust, gave it to friend who likes tinkering to revive. Bought a CRF450RL this spring and absolutely love it. Joined a group of locals which made getting out so much more fun. Learned that there is a whole new class of bikes called adventure bikes. Bought a Tenere 700 as well, and not exaggerating it has opened me up to a whole new world of motorcycling. I never wanted a highway bike because of all the moron automobile drivers out there. This T7 makes me want to drive across the country with it and take every backroad on way!! Spent 8 starlight hours on it last weekend!! I did not expect the power and performance when I bought it, thought it would be similar to a friends bagged out KLR650. But it’s an absolute crotch rocket that rips down backroads and goes way farther off road than I ever imagined taking a “highway” bike. When I have free minutes I know exactly what I’ll do with them from now on!!
64 and Still riding, even after a serious get off in the Nevada Desert near Vegas, 5 days in trauma ward. Still recovering but putting around on my KTM 🙂
and that is the other thing we seem to have in common: broken bones. For me it was my collar bone broken in 2 places and 4 cracked ribs. When I tell other riders my story, most seem to have a similar story.
Not all old dudes give up having fun when they turn grey; good on them. Me, I love tearing up trails and asphalt on my electric unicycle and when I turn 70 in ten years, I hope to be doing the same.
64 years old and still riding my 1973 Honda Motosport 250. Love every minute of it. Wheelies are still happening in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears. Dirt roads, old rail beds, forest trails, hills, and ditches. All friends to me. You only stay alive by living.
i am 54 as well, this is amazing and truly relatable more videos depicting the mental positives of ds would sell more bikes! thank you i can show this to my non riding friends who think im stupid and have a death wish but they probably WON'T get it
64 year old dualsporter from Vancouver island here.......your awesome video sums things up so well.Ive been riding and exploring the entire west coast from Alaska to the heat of Death Valley all alone......just cannot get enuff of it.I dread the day when i have to give it up.The only good thing is ive got tons of videos to relive the experiences when im done.The sense of freedom you get is just the best.......Safe ridin buddy..... and allthough ive explored the Areas around Vegas allready ......Ill be back.......Peace out.....
At 54, I've ridden both road and dual sport/offroad on and off since I was in my teens. The absolute best way to clear the mind and get away from the rat race is jumping on a bike and exploring. Currently punting around on a new DR650 (set up for ADV riding), it might not be an enduro machine, but it will take me anywhere and is a bulletproof tractor. Long range tank will get me 400-450km, so I can fill up and just take off with a tent and some food and disappear for the weekend. In my mind I'm still 20, but my body reminds me regularly that I'm not! Not planning on stopping any time soon, once you start sitting around, the rot sets in... Excellent video, well done!
I'm close to 50 and I just traded-in my Yamaha WR 450 on a Suzuki DR 650. The Yamaha WR 450 was a great motorcycle, but I never got around to racing hare scrambles and there wasn't any public land for off-road use near me, so the Yamaha WR 450 spent too many days not being ridden. The DR 650 turned into my daily commuter and even makes my street bike redundant.
Hi Daniel. Im the other way round. Have a F650GS but bike was way too heavy when I came off off road on trails going camping. I bought a WR450 and upgraded it. Its not so good for tarmac but its light, nimble and carries a basic camping setup. Horses for courses. Its all great fun
Everything you said was spot on, but the best thing about a duel sport is it's plated. I can ride from my garage to the trail and back home with out loading the bike on the trailer or in the truck bed. That makes it so easy to jump on the bike and hit the trail without the hassle.
Love this video. Your words are spot-on. I rode for years before taking a 20 year hiatus. I'm no stranger to the desert. Have been what's called an "overlander" since before it was considered cool. Well, on a lonely day on the trail, a voice told me "Man, you need a dirtbike" and it took me about 5 years to finally pull the trigger on that bike, I finally dis for all of the reasons you described in your video. Thank you ❤️
Started riding in 5th grade in Idaho, turn 65 in January, still riding a 990, 640 Adventure, a 300EXC and a KLX250S. It's a sport you can stay with in old age as long as you stay in shape and maintain your health. I hope to be at it in my 80's.
I can give you my honest opinion on this subject. As a 3ed generation rider and my son is 4th I can tell you I ride desert only now. My son races like I did when I was his age but I don't even take my bike to the track. My son always says just bring it out dad but the truth is I still have that competitive nature inside all riders. The problem is I have to go to work everyday lol I can't afford to get hurt anymore. Believe me if I won the lottery and didn't have to go to work I'd be at the track 3 days a week. Getting old sucks but at least I still got my desert to play in!
55 now, riding since age 5. I'd rather die on the trail than in a lazyboy in front of the fire. Simple as that. Follow your joy. Adapt as needed to conditions and your own body's condition. Enjoy the ride.
When I was 15 I raced motox for 3 years been riding trails since @ 62 rode many Moab trails on ktm 250 , Kennedy meadows California kern RV park and other places Currently riding in Orange County NY. COMING UP on 63 . Looking for 300cc nothing bigger for me & im 6.3 260 Lb ride on me brothers ✊
Started in 1972 with a TM125 Suzuki. Raced MX until I was 25. Been riding ever since.Then started up again at age 42 for 2 years. Tore both ACL's and a collar bone fracture. Had the 1st KTM 250. (The 2nd one sold in the US), Elsinore's, Yz's, RM's. KX's....Had most all of them. I have a Harley Road King, a KTM 1290 Super Adventure, a KTM 300 EXC, and a new 2022 KTM 500 EXCF. I ride them all at ripe old age of 66. If I couldn't ride anymore, I might as well be dead. I'm not old. I'm seasoned.
As you age, your mindset change and you start to think you now understand the meaning of life. At the end of the day, we can agree it is all about how can we get as close to FREEDOM while having much fun!
because as we age, the risk on a motocross track is high, and as we age, we dont look for that same adrenaline rush, and we start to see its a pointless risk, as we age we start to appreciate, just riding and looking at nature, and theres no tracks left open where i live, as a dualsport i can go anywhere i want, basically dualsport riders are the new Harley riders. this segment will only grow, ill only give up dualsport riding when im in a wheelchair or dead
OMG! You NAILED IT!😂 I’m two breaths away from 65, OWN a CRF300L and ride with the wife of 45yrs on her new Ruckus! You sir have single-handedly put here on video just what makes us ‘old guys’ tick! Oh…54?…ALMOST still a PUNK!😂 But you are quickly mastering the art of being one of us old guys! We ALL deserve to be here, we have survived where many sadly haven’t. Grasp each and every new day and ride! 👴🏻🍺🇨🇦
Im 56 and just got a '99 DR650, my buddy at work is 62 and has two 1983 XL600R's and an Africa Twin. I often think to myself that I should have had dual sports my whole life and I would have been much happier, but i guess this is how it happens lol
56 and just picked up my first off road bike in 30+, 2023 FE50. My enduro is plated and a dual sport. D.S. Are “pure fun” and you’ll be thankful you have one during the coming apacolyspse.
And the plated part won't be necessary at all (during the apacolypse). I never bother with that on mine. We live in a rural area and stay off the main highway except for crossing and the local cops never mess with us.
I think it’s because we all grew up before the Internet. I loved Riding Motorcross and Enduro Bikes, then the Big Street Bikes. It’s just still something we love to do. It’s a Adventure. We moved to Adventure Bikes when we got old because they Serve 2 Purposes. Touring and Off Road. It is just the perfect Bike.👍❤️
I started out on trails in the ‘70’s and bought a cruiser later in life. Joined multiple rider groups but just never found my tribe in the v-twin world. My boss (of ten years) had a 1st gen vstrom and rode it from Atlanta to key west, bashed the muffler in Moab and rode the mountains of New England just to watch the colors. The bike now sits in my garage and a new chapter is beginning. I’ve met like minded men my age (late 40s and early 50s) and we don’t ride fast or try iron- butt challenges. We enjoy the slower side of life complete with shorter trail rides and catching our diner with the packable fishing rods. I love returning to the days of paper maps and stories around camp fires. This is why the dual sport world is my tribe. Welcome.
Been a harley rider forever. Had a honda ct70 when i was a kid, lived everyday on bicycles in my youth. Bought a 22 excf 500 at 50 yrs old. Wanted a dirt bike since i was 12. Love getting to a trail with a licence plate. Freedom.
I’ve been riding dual sport bikes all my life. Started on a 1971 Honda Sl70 at 9 yr old..ripping up local back roads and fields n woods. I’m now 36. I have 76 bikes. Most all vintage dual sport bikes. Love my 86 Yamaha tt350. But I spend a lot of time on my 71 Honda sl350. Like my grand and great grandfather I’ll ride till my 90s and I’ll die still trying to ride.
Well said. I'm 60. Started on a ct 70 my friend had a Harley x 90. A true gem. As we're the XR 75. Dt 400 xl 350 another kid had a Suzuki ts 50. Now ido the Harley thing but still do the daulsport thing on my drz 400 daulsport such fun bikes
Great video, I myself just bought a 2022 CRF450RL at the ripe age of 51 after a 25 year hiatus and like that other yahoo I never had any interest in riding on the asphalt until I did. 80/20 is the only way to live!!
@@BornAGoon in the er now waiting on x rays.broke my wrist. .I'm number 4 for this afternoon. Trails are like marbles. Pray for rain for all of us in Boise Idaho.
‘21 450RL - give it 1500 miles before you start replacing parts. At 9300 miles I have settled on a better seat, smaller rear sprocket by 2 teeth and the fly wheel weight and find it almost perfect.
Ain’t nuttin like a dirt bike, I’m 62. I have a fleet of bikes. Recently shredder in Colorado exposed me to a real dual sport ride. I loved it. Never saw so much bitchin country in a day ever. Now I’m make one of my singletrack bikes a very competent dual sport. So I can get out of my area and hit some new stuff. Exspand your horizons, he said. I know a guy who’s 80 and rides as much as possible in baja
I’m 52 and ride a ktm 690 enduro r when I want to hit the trails. It’s been great fun and never fails to put a smile on my face. It truly is my time machine because I feel ten years younger every time I throw my leg over it.
Amen - my main bike is a 450RL - but every time I borrow my buddies 690 - I grin ear to ear on single track, jeep trail, or twisty back roads and the occasional interstate. Power that never ends, and weight that is manageable
@@BornAGoon it honestly doesn’t feel like a 350ish pound bike to me. The only place it shows it’s limitations is on the highway when I ride with friends that are on larger bikes like the bmw gs800 and they want to roll 80+ mph. The 690 front end gets a light sketchy feeling at those speeds but I feel like it might be the off-road bias tires that I am running. I’ve considered replacing it with the 890 adventure r but don’t look forward to the extra 100 pounds.
@@BornAGoon I was actually going to get a Honda XR650L it was sold. They had a very clean used Ktm 690 there though for $8000 with barely any miles on it so I bought it and am glad that I got it instead of the XR. It’s my first ktm but it’s been very reliable for the 5000 miles I’ve put on it so far. I ride it more than my Harley or GSXR750 because it truly is fun with two wheels
Really well summarised man! It all resonated with me. I’m 52 and big motivation to buy the ‘22 KLX450R and a ‘19 CRF250L for my son I just have to get out, make some memories and pass on some experiences. Came off a couple of weeks ago and cracked a rib and that really reminds you your alive too! More do what I say and not what I do kind of experiences for him!😁👊
I’m very fortunate to be 19 and getting out there and seeing the world with my XR650r. It’s too bad there’s not as many of the dual sport/ADV community as there Should be.
I rode street bikes for many years. My first new bike was a 1981 Honda CB900 custom. Last year I starting thinking that I always wanted to ride an off road bike. At 67 years I realized I was quickly "aging out" so last December I bought a new Honda CRF300l. I've been riding with friends that are also in their 60's and I'm loving it! I may not be as fast as them, but I go everywhere they go and my smile is every bit as big as theirs. I live on Vancouver Island and the backcountry is absolutely beautiful here.
61 and I ride a couple of times a week. Started riding the Las Vegas deserts when I was 12 on a Honda 50, then the Honda XR75, then the Honda Elsinore 125, that was back in 1974. Our Junior High School, Cashman, had a cycle club and we had desert races in the desert around Vegas (all houses now). Fast forward 48 years and I am still riding, although I am in SW Utah now. I'm on a 2022 CRF450RL and a CRF250L. Why duel sport? Because I like to ride not load trailers and drive and unload. I love the versatility of my bikes, the ability to jump on and go. I don't need the adrenaline thrill I used to seek when younger, I get a thrill just riding, just being on my bike, riders will understand. I'm training my sons to enjoy the adventure riding, exploring, and reaching a destination, not just going around a track. Thanks for the video, good job.
I'm 36 and have been riding sport bikes since I was 21. I've always liked the idea of dual sports, so I finally got one this past April, went with the crf300l. I can honestly say I've had more fun on the 300l than any sport bike I have owned. I also have an xsr900, but am thinking of selling it next spring and getting a Tenere 700. Riding on paved roads is boring to me now. Ride safe, guys!
That’s something I’ve come to notice as well. While in my opinion nothing beats the look of a sport bike (and the feeling you get a couple times a year when you use it as intended) I get so much more enjoyment out of adv bikes, dual sports and supermotos!
I am 38. I've never owned a motorcycle until this year. I got an electric dualsport and I have been having a blast exploring the area around my home. I have never had the urge to ride a motorcycle until I got into riding ebikes and offroad electric scooters. The exploration is just so much fun. My average speed is only about 30mph I just enjoy the peace, adventure and freedom a bike gives you. And being electric I can go so many places noisy gas bikes cannot go. This is horse country and my neighbors would not appreciate me riding a gas powered bike.
Twice I've taken it down a mountain bike trail at local park. Definitely couldn't do that with a gas bike. Really hard to find places to ride on east coast.
@@michaelpatrick6984 I would totally do that! The other part that seems nice is if you have something smaller and without gas you can get it into a car or van if you want to poach some trails. You riding a Sur-Ron or something plated?
@@chadwells7562 It is a 300lbs zero. I ordered a 600lbs hitch mounted carrier yesterday. Going to haul it on that. Comes with a little ramp that folds up. It is a bit heavier than the average dirt bike, but still light enough to ride offroad. I do want a SurRon though or something similar. I also have a 55mph electric scooter that you stand on like a wake board. The scooter is honestly more fun than anything else if you have a place to ride it. Next thing I want is an electric hydrofoil for the pond^
31 years old, been dual sport riding for 10 years here and there, got a built 1983 Honda XL600R and a new Ducati DesertX... Glad I got a lifetime hobby!!!
Well, 56 here, never owned a dual sport and 42 years into the game I still race big bore 2-strokes in the desert, but you are right about age. Dual sport guys tend to be older. Interesting observation.
I hit 57 last week… have a 99 KX500, 02 KDX200 and a 2020 KTM690 Enduro R. I ride the 690 almost daily, retired and thinking about buying an ultralight aircraft next. I guess responsibility and obligations kept me from doing a lot of stuff when I was younger but I have no regrets. I’m now able to do what I want, when I want on or in whatever I want.
First bike when I was 8 years old. Benelli dynamo. A 50cc trail bike. Mine had head, tail lights & blinkers. I have not been without a dual sport since. I am 56 & have ridden all over the US. I have owned 20+ bikes of all kinds. I settled up on a KLX 250 & am very happy. I don’t know what I would do without a bike.
I started DS on a Honda SL 175 in 1980. Let me add a thought or two: DS keeps the mind and body sharp. It also takes fantasy to reality quickly, the moment you throw a leg over the seat. The adrenaline and post ride euphoria is pretty long lasting. And, it’s way better than golf.
I'm 63, and I have ridden dirt bikes since age 10, when I started on a Bultaco Lobito 100. I currently ride a Yamaha XT225, because it's carbureted, and because it's the only dual sport bike I can still get on, with a 30.5" seat. Even then I never ride alone. I have had about a million flat tires riding off road, and seriously doubt my ability to repair a flat tire by myself out in the middle of the AZ desert. My bike has a custom made centerstand on it, so I'm pretty sure I could get a wheel off, but it took me an entire day to replace a tire at home. Fortunately I currently have someone to ride with who is capable of fixing a flat tire. Tubeless tires would allow me to ride alone again (I ride over 15,000 miles a year alone on a street bike with tubeless tires) but manufacturers apparently have no interest in making dual sport bikes with tubeless tires.
this is the first video I've watched of yours, the algorithm is working for you. I'm 41 and been dual sporing for a year, the entire video and every ride I also wish I got into it earlier. but then I think there is also a level of self preservation that comes a 40 that"s required too... I say this even after my last ride a few days ago, I'm waiting to see a doc for a feel I may of cracked a rib after laying my DR650 down, yet I'm still smiling and can't wait to go again. keep riding guys
This was a really good video. Got my first bike, a 1990 dr250s about two years ago at age 31 and fell in love with riding the roads and trails here in Northern California.
Another old retired guy here and have been riding dual sports since the early 70's back when you could actually get street legal 2 stroke dual sports. Along the way have club raced 1000cc sportbikes, owned full fledged 900lb touring bikes a few cruisers and throw in a couple of v-max's for stoplight to stoplight fun along with multiple strictly dirt bikes from 4 stokes to 500cc two strokes. But honestly after the growing up thrill of the speed of the sportbikes were quenched nothing puts a smile on my face like a well sorted dual sport exploring the back country and that has lasted for roughly 60 years of riding!
Considering I bought a drz400sm to get a more offroad tire and to get a more dual sport ride. I think being older, me 41 this winter and just wanting a license in spring. It's more about the adventure and not having to go ridiculous speeds to have fun. Plus offroad driving takes a different skill I don't think you can find sticking to just pavement. I'm looking to enjoy the next part of my life getting a license.
Nice vid. Says what a lot of us can’t put into words. I’m on a new Africa Twin dct after 5 years on a AT manual. The dct has improved my skills and confidence. I’m going to put in a few years on the top heavy big double thumper before I step down permanently to the crf300 Rally. As my late riding friend said as he was declining: “a man can have a lot of fun on a motorcycle at 40 mph”
I got my first Honda 50 50 years ago. Rode dirt bikes into my early 20's then switched to street bikes. A couple years ago I bought a little Honda CRF250L. I haven't had so much fun in over 20 years. I really missed flirting with the limits of traction on a dirt bike. It's my favorite thing to do these days.
"It is just so beautiful out here"! I am turning 62. I love it! I went to Walker Valley thinking I was probably the only old guy here. To my surprise, I saw a lot of old guys like me. Honda CRF 250F is lighter and it has enough power ! Enjoy your life!
In the 80's we grew up riding 3 wheelers and dirt bikes, a lot of us still ride pretty hard, bones don't heal as quick anymore though lol. When I am on something with handlebars I still try and keep up with the kids. I have to work out now to keep in shape so I can do this stuff sometimes I pull out the old 2 stroke stuff and give em a run for their money.
As an addendum to this, the shop I work for recently hosted a group of Aussies who flew over to travel the entire US on KTM 890 ADV's that they bought from us. Prior to their arrival I had assumed we were about to meet a bunch of Hemsworth brothers but all of them were over 50 as well.
Just found your video! Lots of good truth in there! I'm 61, raced motocross in the 80's and 90's, then enduros and woods riding. Dual sport bikes just keep us in touch with what we love but don't want to hang it all out and risk breaking out necks anymore!! I now have a KTM 890R that I have done some BDR's with and camping and a KTM 350 that is my "dirt bike". Just because we are old does not mean we don't want to still enjoy motorcyles!!
The age thing is funny and so true! I've always been into sport bikes and fast nakeds (still am) but got into ADV bikes in my 40s. I think it's a combination of things: * You appreciate the outdoors and your surroundings more; * You've kinda seen and experienced it all and these bikes allow you to explore a whole new world and create new experiences; * You enjoy more solitude and peace and quiet when you get older, another thing you can easily find with dual sports and Adv bikes.
At age 59, I can't argue with you. Just wish some of my old friends would join me instead of sitting about waiting to die. Rather use my remaining time making memories than reminiscing which is what we tend to do now, usually with a scotch in our hands.
I am a mere 53 years old. Been riding since I was 12. Used to race 3 wheelers (still have 2 of them). I also have a DRZ400, DR650, Goldwing and Yamaha Stratoliner (cruiser). Having a bike for every occasion is never a bad thing. Today we are the youngest that we will ever be again. Get out there and rip it up while you can!
What a great video! As an older, less experienced Dual Sport Rider, you are spot on! Like the guy who was sitting on the rock enjoying the moment, as we get older it seems we can appreciate the backcountry gifts of nature. It also keeps us challenged without extreme risk. Great video Brother!
I can say that as a 19 year old and the owner of dual sports both from the 60s and 80s, I enjoy the simplicity of taking your time going anywhere to catch a good view
I’m 28 years old bought my first dual sport bike couple months ago a KTM 890 adv r. One thing I definitely noticed was that everyone is so much older than I am. In a group of 10 KTM riders I’m the youngest everyone else is 40+. Happy I got it young enduro was always something I thought was cool. A bike with no limitations was the reason I went adventure.
Great video I haven't had a bike for 40 years I'm retiring soon and getting a dual sport for a little exploration on my own time and I think you nailed it here
Thank you for this video!! I am going to be 69 in July, and I have not rode in 16 years. I will be buying the Honda CRF 300l this year. Looking forward to riding again. I don't want to live the rest of my life without riding.
53 years young rider in Live Free or Die state. Love to ride & not old enough or mature enough to own a Harley. In our barn I have a 13 BMW K1600GT, 19 DRZ400SM, 20 Yamaha MT07 & 20 Harley Road Glide the last 2 bikes are my 26 year, old son’s bikes. I love going into the barn & play what to ride today game. 😂. Ride on!!
Dual sport bikes are as close to having a horse, as possible. For those of us who never had our own horse, but still wanted to go off road, it really was the only real choice. But whatever you ride; enjoy it, and try to share your joy with others. In middle age, I bought another 11, and started leading weekend tours of the area with my friends, because, well no one else could be bothered to recon the ride beforehand. So I got to ride it twice; first all alone, and second while leading a group of riders who wanted to enjoy and explore, but simply weren't biker 'enough' to do it on their own. Paid off over time, as a couple of others started coming with me for the pre-ride and eventually helped being the leader sometimes. Those days are gone, as my knees eventually caused me to stop riding regularly, but the memories will stay with me forever.
Nearly bought a Royal Enfield Classic 350 this Spring. I've had BMW R65, Honda Transalp, cd175, cg125, Benly 200, Kawasaki 650, been 6 years without a bike. I'm 61 and bought a crf300l this July. Always wanted a small dual sport.
I bought a 2022 Royal Enfield Enfield, put wider more comfortable bars on it and love it for commuting to work, or running to the local grocery store. I'm 60, and also have a 2017 Africa Twin, and a 2000 Harley Davidson Fat Boy. All three bikes give me fantastic enjoyment, but are completely different in both power and application. Life is good, Ride happy! 🇺🇸
Both my wife and I are 75 years old. While I was in the hospital in April having triple bypass surgery, my wife went out and bought a '23 KLX230sm Kawasaki and traded in her '15 MT-09 900cc Yamaha. Just before my hospital visit, I traded in my '94 Yamaha V-max and bought a nice little '23 Honda GROM. We both will want to ride motorcycles until we are in our grave but big heavy bikes are getting to be just too much of a problem moving around, so we both have opted for downsizing. My wife does get a lot of stares as I can bet there are not too many 75 year old ladies walking through the door at Kawasaki to buy another bike. It is STILL all about riding motorcycles are fun. For longer rides I still have my '14 Honda CB1100 and my '10 Honda VFR 1200F.
I think you covered it well. I rode dirt bikes and MX as a kid and teen. Then in my early 30's had a street scoot. Then went without one until I approached 50. At that point in life I think many of us have been knocked around a bit and we start asking ourselves, what used to bring us simple joy? For me, dual sport easily checked all the boxes. End of 2019 I picked up a lightly used DR650 for $5k. Easy to ride, on and off road. Super simple, reliable, easy for me to tinker/modify. Dual sport just fits.
im 47, rookie duel sport rider, honestly a back injury took me out of backpacking years ago, i have all the gear but ouchie on me back, so i got a duel sport to be my sherpa of sorts. very happy
A friend and I just got back into riding about three years ago after a 25 year hiatus. Bought a BMW850GSA and he got a KTM890R. We just got back from the Arctic Circle / Dempster Hwy / Tuktoyaktuk. Epic bucket list trip. Now we are both getting smaller dual sports for some local trails / BDR routes. This is the best money I've ever spent.
![ละลาย (LALALYE) - DAOU PITTAYA ต้าห์อู๋ พิทยา [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wo6r9TgausI/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm 69 and just bought a 2023 KLX300 in camo gray. It's my 30th bike. I've been riding since I was 12 and always look forward to my next ride!
Real men shake hands. 68 here and still riding. In my 53 years of riding (about third dirt) nothing makes me happier than riding. I still have the trail bike I had in high school. It's in its 7th rebuild now. Bikes keep me young. I don't do Trials riding or Enduro trails anymore. I chose the Super Tenere because I am more comfortable at doing 50 on a dirt road vs a Goldwing or Harley. I am thinking about down sizing, but I still like the Ten for its ability to take me down the roads I still have the courage to do. I may be in an old body, but my mind is still young.
Thanks for sharing
Dam right we shake hands.... 66 years old with a KTM 500 EXCF. F Dr Faucci!
Shook a hand yesterday, going riding today. The Super Ten was a good answer to my '07 KLR but my Tenere700 is the slim, quick, smooth, quiet answer to both. It's a 70 hp Mtn bike happy at 80 on or off the hwy.
@@dh-flies T-shirt idea: Middle finger "Truly safe and effective".
@@G8rquest the T7 is a awesome bike! just bought a new one 6weeks ago I love it!
Last July my 16 y/o son and I rode our dual sports from Reno, NV to Colorado Springs, CO. We mostly took 2 lane highways and some dirt roads through deserts, mountains, canyons, farmland, and national parks. Great memories to last a lifetime.
Last July, my 16 year old son decided to fight back and punched me in the nutz.
Seems like you got it easier.
Sounds like a great trip how awesome
Sounds like your a future member of NAMBLA
Time, money, energy. People usually only have a relative abundance of two of those things. Very young people might have time and energy, but no money. Then we have money and energy, but no time. Later in life we may have time and money, but relatively less energy, and dual sport riding fits well into that I think.
Haha, life is stressful 🤪
Well stated my friend!
Turning 70 - been riding for 60 years.... started racing motocross at 10. Just spent a lovely fall weekend out riding the mountains around Banff Alberta on my Honda 250 enjoying the amazing fall colours! Nature and bikes - never gets old. The new Beta 500 RRS is my 70th birthday present to myself....Great piece you posted
It truly is. I started racing when I was 13. Family owns a dealership so motorcycles have been almost every part of my family’s life since 1937 when the dealership got started. It’s just one of those thing regardless of what life is throwing at you. All ya have to do is get in a bike. Any bike. I love choppers bobbers. Customs. Stock. Vintage. Dirt. Road. They all offer unique experiences. And I love them all. Just turned 45 this year and got my first dual sport lol. So I guess this video is valid
You need to start recording your adventures!
I am an New Jersey born native with Puerto Rican heritage and in my 30s. The way the elderly people are thought of in the U.S. bothers me. Calling people old as a negative term. I was always taught to respect, honor and admire the older ones for they have the knowledge of life that we can all hope to reach one day when we too become"old". Honor those great Men and Women while we still have the time with them on this earth. "Honor thy father and thy mother" God commands.
It used to be that way here as well, until that certain "tribe" of bagel eating globalist imposters completely bought out our govt and media. They hate us and want nothing but division, death and destruction so they can enslave the rest of the dumbed down peasants who actually believe their nonsense propaganda.
Same here man. I to do not subscribe to agism and i never have my dad was in his mid 50's by the time i was out of highschool and he could work circles around me lol never even started to slow down until he was almost 70. and he never talked about age..i mean like not even once. I always believed that was part of his secret. He never wanted to slow down and he never brought up age.
Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a FRUIT, wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad.
I think of this often............
Thank you Javier. At 67yrs old I appreciate a young man that was raised properly and shows respect
But they do suck at driving
Bought my 1st dual sport at 26. Favorite bike I own.
I am that Old(62) Guy Adventure Rider and I have a 2022 CRF450RL. And as you mentioned I also have a 2021 Goldwing Tour DCT and a 2021 R1250GS Adventure and a 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R. So to answer your question. It’s my hobby and I enjoy the heck out of it and at my age I can afford it. Kids are all grown and I divorced the wife 6 years ago so I have no one telling me I can’t buy bikes. On a different genre I also have a sport bike, a HD and a scooter. I like to say I’m a well rounded rider in more than one way(Dad Bod)
Man you have a nice fleet of bikes there
@@BornAGoon Thanks I am enjoying them.
@@PapaDougsAdventures01 I’ve got a year on you (63) and the R1250GS is in my garage.
That’s a great selection you have. Ever got a hankering for the old two-strokes of your teenage years?
@@PhilbyFavourites absolutely. My brother had a 250 Elsinore and I loved it. I think one of those or the 125 could be in my future. The CRF450RL that I just bought has everything you could want for my skill set. I’ll probably get the Elsinore just because
@@PapaDougsAdventures01 “just because” is a great reason. But I actually meant road going two strokes.
My 17 year old self ran around on a KH250. But nowadays I would love a ’75 RD350B
I love it. Great video. At 58, i am thinking about buying a dual sport to ride from Canada to Mexico. Awesome thought. Big change from my 100 cc enduro when i was 15, or my Harley Sportster cruiser when i was 50. But a very exciting dream, that i think i might do, and very soon!
Appalachian Mountains from Montreal to Nashville, West to Texas through New Orleans, then South through Mexico to Chiapas, where i now live... Yee-ha!!! :)
I started DS riding at 59 yrs old in 2019, after a 30 yr break from riding. Haven't stopped smiling yet! and I'm just getting started.
Sweet Thanks for watching the video
You don’t stop riding because you get old, you get old because you stop riding.
Agreed! And the addendum to that is “You never see a motorcycle parked in front of a psychiatrist’s office”.
Throttle therapy is good for the mind and soul. 😁
Started out last year at 50. 51 now and riding my dr650 every saturday mornings out in the woods/fields. I agree with everything you said 100%. I would also add that dual sporting, esêcially off road is a great way to get an adrenaline rush without doing crazy speeds. Loved the vid. Subscribed
Well said!
Great bike I have on also ride everyday to work to make up for lost time on a bike
Perfectly stated! The DR650 is the "Swiss Army Knife" of motorcycles and it will take you where you want to be. Congrats Man on your awesome bike!
Cheers!
And brain stimulation.
Nice one!! My take at 51 and an old Yamaha sponsored rider is this. We are all athletic, have disposable income, kids aren’t babies, a desire to keep moving. Yes I still prefer my MTN bike and Gravel, but knowing that I can go exploring further on my 2022 45O RL provides me with multiple options. A body in motion….stays in motion. Love the riding videos as you know 😊
Were you sponsored by Yamaha Earl? Thats dope
Nailed it Earl.
Once Yamaha sponsored now rides a Honda…sounds like that sponsorship ended badly 😂
@@Thumper68 unfortunately big blue doesn't have a horse in the 450 dual sport race
@@Thumper68 that was years ago. You show me any Yamaha dual sport that can compete with the 450RL. #goodluck
Oh my, I resemble the findings of this video. 61 here, my history is I have owned a dirt bike (if my 1st bike, a Honda CT-70 counts) since I was 11 years old. My work life has been pretty stressful over many years, if not for my motorcycle escape I would have gone off the rails years ago.
Had an XL600 back in the late 80s alongside the dirt and sport bikes. Lived in Long Beach at the time and the XL was so much fun, I actually sold it as I did way too many 5 gear street wheelies on it, and was constantly running from the cops. It is remarkable how "slippery" an aggressively ridden XL600 can be in an urban environment. Going over the median and cranking a wheelie in the opposite direction was a favorite taunt / escape move. Oh boy, were the cops pissed. I knew my luck would eventually run out and sold the XL before the cops caught and beat the living sh%t out of me. Being young and good at wheelies, I simply could not do them while riding that XL. Lots of nighttime "urban enduro" on that bike too, up and down concrete stairs, jumping truck ramps, etc. Good times!
Moved on from the XL to my "safer" Ninja 750 where the wheelies were few and far between, and criminal speeding was the only real danger to my license, and my CR250 dirt bike. Did some desert / off road racing on the CR, still do race off road occasionally in the old man class on my 300 XC.
Back to the dual sport "issue" I replaced the XL with a DR-Z 400 which I modded the Hell out of, The DR-Z was a good bike, a mere 6 speed WR transmission away from true claw hammer reliable dual sport greatness, but damn it, the DR-Z wouldn't wheelie for me like the old XL600 did. Got kinda bored with it and sold the DR-Z and focused on my street and dirt bikes for many years. My current street bike is a Super Tenere, while technically an "adventure" bike I regard that big lovable pig as a long range touring bike with dirt road and paved road pothole capable suspension. In addition to the Super T, I still had the aforementioned 300 XC and a '10 Husaberg FE450. Even with these 3 bikes, I felt a gnawing hole in my collection of motorcycles.
So, being 61 and since I was able to swing it, I recently bought a new Husky 701 Enduro, which I proceeded to mod the Hell out of with the Rottweiler power goodies, stiffer fork springs, Yosh can and bolt on bling. The 701 is stupid fast, mostly glassy smooth with it's twin balancers, and well suspended with XPLOR bits front and rear. My 701 is as good as my rose colored glasses enhanced memories of my old XL600. Even with a reported 70 some odd horsepower on tap, I can't wheelie the 701 like the XL back in the day, but 2 gear 1/8th mile long jobs come pretty easy for me on it, which is about all I can reasonably expect at this point in my riding career. Being older and arguably wiser, I am a lot more discriminating about where I pull wheelies on the 701, so my chances of landing in jail on it are a lot less than back in the XL600 days.
Best of all, the go anywhere good enough 701 has really re-ignited my desire to explore. I live in Colorado and with the state's abundance of scenic and sometimes pretty challenging 4x4 trails and of course my usual dirt bike trails, I am having a really good time "dual sporting" on it. Now I just need to suck some of my dirt bike riding buddies into the dual sport madness! My light and snappy 300 eggs me on to haul ass. In contrast, on the big dual sport 701, it is fun to just go for a ride. The 701 is cool, as I can still be quite "frisky" on it while off road, and it is a serious weapon on a twisty paved canyon road.
While out on the 701, I was on a challenging 4x4 trail with a big steep granite face, the 4x4 guys were cool and waved me up as the trucks were slowly making their way up it and one had just cleared it. They had spotters all up and down the hill. Naturally I rode a fat wheelie up that face, Yosh exhaust can barking merrily. Does a tuned high compression 693cc single with a Yosh can on it ever bark merrily! Oh ya - it is the king of "braap". It is not annoying, nothing raspy, just deep, full bodied and, when on the gas, serious.
There was a pretty 20 something girl at the top of the hill who was quite impressed by the shenanigans. She asked me about the bike and thought the whole thundering up the hill while riding a wheelie episode was bad ass. This despite the fact that I am old enough to be her Dad. That exchange made my day, as it is priceless to be an old dude like me who is seen by a pretty young thing as cool, as nobody has looked at me as cool in at least 25 years 😆
I bought my first bike when I was 20 years old and it was a 250cc dual sport, I was initially attracted to sportbikes but I thought starting in a "do it all" bike would be a good idea to learn skills and the basics of riding, oh boy I did and I discovered how magical is to ride motorcycles, I remember going alone sometimes to get lost on the trails, there I found peace, I remember myself riding for hours then switching off the engine to watch the sunset and the only things I could hear was my accelerated heart pounding and the engine cooling down, there was nothing out there but me and the bike...
Spot on!! I’ve never left a comment before but feel compelled to do so. I’m 46, self employed, and have worked way too much my adult life. Proud of where I am but lost ability to balance work, family, and fun. Had dirt bikes as a kid and a 93 Dr350 for years that ended up sitting and collecting dust, gave it to friend who likes tinkering to revive. Bought a CRF450RL this spring and absolutely love it. Joined a group of locals which made getting out so much more fun. Learned that there is a whole new class of bikes called adventure bikes. Bought a Tenere 700 as well, and not exaggerating it has opened me up to a whole new world of motorcycling. I never wanted a highway bike because of all the moron automobile drivers out there. This T7 makes me want to drive across the country with it and take every backroad on way!! Spent 8 starlight hours on it last weekend!! I did not expect the power and performance when I bought it, thought it would be similar to a friends bagged out KLR650. But it’s an absolute crotch rocket that rips down backroads and goes way farther off road than I ever imagined taking a “highway” bike. When I have free minutes I know exactly what I’ll do with them from now on!!
Thanks for commenting and watching the vid Great story
Good , all the miles you can get !!!
64 and Still riding, even after a serious get off in the Nevada Desert near Vegas, 5 days in trauma ward. Still recovering but putting around on my KTM 🙂
and that is the other thing we seem to have in common: broken bones. For me it was my collar bone broken in 2 places and 4 cracked ribs. When I tell other riders my story, most seem to have a similar story.
Not all old dudes give up having fun when they turn grey; good on them. Me, I love tearing up trails and asphalt on my electric unicycle and when I turn 70 in ten years, I hope to be doing the same.
64 years old and still riding my 1973 Honda Motosport 250. Love every minute of it. Wheelies are still happening in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears. Dirt roads, old rail beds, forest trails, hills, and ditches. All friends to me. You only stay alive by living.
i am 54 as well, this is amazing and truly relatable more videos depicting the mental positives of ds would sell more bikes! thank you i can show this to my non riding friends who think im stupid and have a death wish but they probably WON'T get it
64 year old dualsporter from Vancouver island here.......your awesome video sums things up so well.Ive been riding and exploring the entire west coast from Alaska to the heat of Death Valley all alone......just cannot get enuff of it.I dread the day when i have to give it up.The only good thing is ive got tons of videos to relive the experiences when im done.The sense of freedom you get is just the best.......Safe ridin buddy..... and allthough ive explored the Areas around Vegas allready ......Ill be back.......Peace out.....
Should have mentioned it all started on A yamaha gt80 with many bikes in between to my now 12 year old 30th anniversary F800 GS........
At 54, I've ridden both road and dual sport/offroad on and off since I was in my teens. The absolute best way to clear the mind and get away from the rat race is jumping on a bike and exploring. Currently punting around on a new DR650 (set up for ADV riding), it might not be an enduro machine, but it will take me anywhere and is a bulletproof tractor. Long range tank will get me 400-450km, so I can fill up and just take off with a tent and some food and disappear for the weekend. In my mind I'm still 20, but my body reminds me regularly that I'm not! Not planning on stopping any time soon, once you start sitting around, the rot sets in... Excellent video, well done!
Don't stop, ride as long as you can !!!
I am that older guy who also said I should have done it years ago. Bought my first bike at 60 (XT250) a couple of months ago.
64 years young. I ride a Ninja 1000 and a KTM 790 r. Been riding for 48 years and still love as much as I did at 17.
a ninja 1000 how sweet is that
I very much dislike someone calling me 73 years young. I worked hard to obtain this age. Prefer to be called 'old school'
I'm close to 50 and I just traded-in my Yamaha WR 450 on a Suzuki DR 650. The Yamaha WR 450 was a great motorcycle, but I never got around to racing hare scrambles and there wasn't any public land for off-road use near me, so the Yamaha WR 450 spent too many days not being ridden. The DR 650 turned into my daily commuter and even makes my street bike redundant.
Hi Daniel. Im the other way round. Have a F650GS but bike was way too heavy when I came off off road on trails going camping. I bought a WR450 and upgraded it. Its not so good for tarmac but its light, nimble and carries a basic camping setup. Horses for courses. Its all great fun
@@kevrenshaw6177 The WR 450 is an off-road motorcycle only, it was never designed to be a dual sport motorcycle.
I'm pretty sure my brother and I set a record on Dr 650 is going from Silverton to Lake City in 2018 we made it in an hour and a half
Everything you said was spot on, but the best thing about a duel sport is it's plated. I can ride from my garage to the trail and back home with out loading the bike on the trailer or in the truck bed. That makes it so easy to jump on the bike and hit the trail without the hassle.
Love this video. Your words are spot-on. I rode for years before taking a 20 year hiatus. I'm no stranger to the desert. Have been what's called an "overlander" since before it was considered cool. Well, on a lonely day on the trail, a voice told me "Man, you need a dirtbike" and it took me about 5 years to finally pull the trigger on that bike, I finally dis for all of the reasons you described in your video. Thank you ❤️
Started riding in 5th grade in Idaho, turn 65 in January, still riding a 990, 640 Adventure, a 300EXC and a KLX250S. It's a sport you can stay with in old age as long as you stay in shape and maintain your health. I hope to be at it in my 80's.
I can give you my honest opinion on this subject. As a 3ed generation rider and my son is 4th I can tell you I ride desert only now. My son races like I did when I was his age but I don't even take my bike to the track. My son always says just bring it out dad but the truth is I still have that competitive nature inside all riders. The problem is I have to go to work everyday lol I can't afford to get hurt anymore. Believe me if I won the lottery and didn't have to go to work I'd be at the track 3 days a week. Getting old sucks but at least I still got my desert to play in!
55 now, riding since age 5. I'd rather die on the trail than in a lazyboy in front of the fire. Simple as that. Follow your joy. Adapt as needed to conditions and your own body's condition. Enjoy the ride.
Thanks for watching and commenting
When I was 15 I raced motox for 3 years been riding trails since @ 62 rode many Moab trails on ktm 250 , Kennedy meadows California kern RV park and other places
Currently riding in Orange County NY. COMING UP on 63 . Looking for 300cc nothing bigger for me & im 6.3 260 Lb
ride on me brothers ✊
Started in 1972 with a TM125 Suzuki. Raced MX until I was 25. Been riding ever since.Then started up again at age 42 for 2 years. Tore both ACL's and a collar bone fracture. Had the 1st KTM 250. (The 2nd one sold in the US), Elsinore's, Yz's, RM's. KX's....Had most all of them. I have a Harley Road King, a KTM 1290 Super Adventure, a KTM 300 EXC, and a new 2022 KTM 500 EXCF. I ride them all at ripe old age of 66. If I couldn't ride anymore, I might as well be dead. I'm not old. I'm seasoned.
As you age, your mindset change and you start to think you now understand the meaning of life. At the end of the day, we can agree it is all about how can we get as close to FREEDOM while having much fun!
Very true
because as we age, the risk on a motocross track is high, and as we age, we dont look for that same adrenaline rush, and we start to see its a pointless risk, as we age we start to appreciate, just riding and looking at nature, and theres no tracks left open where i live, as a dualsport i can go anywhere i want, basically dualsport riders are the new Harley riders. this segment will only grow, ill only give up dualsport riding when im in a wheelchair or dead
OMG! You NAILED IT!😂
I’m two breaths away from 65, OWN a CRF300L and ride with the wife of 45yrs on her new Ruckus!
You sir have single-handedly put here on video just what makes us ‘old guys’ tick!
Oh…54?…ALMOST still a PUNK!😂
But you are quickly mastering the art of being one of us old guys!
We ALL deserve to be here, we have survived where many sadly haven’t.
Grasp each and every new day and ride!
👴🏻🍺🇨🇦
🍻🇨🇦👋😁
👍😎🤙🍻
Because of time, age, wisdom, experience, skill, We Rock.
We do rock
So funny, im 54 and just picked up a 1983 XL600R. She still needs a little work but ill be on the trails at 55 🙂
Im 56 and just got a '99 DR650, my buddy at work is 62 and has two 1983 XL600R's and an Africa Twin. I often think to myself that I should have had dual sports my whole life and I would have been much happier, but i guess this is how it happens lol
Great video, I'm 57 and gave up ATV's for the dualsport bug this year. Honda CRF 300L Rally and loving it.
Sweet! Thanks for watching
True bikers never give up
70 here.. still riding.
56 and just picked up my first off road bike in 30+, 2023 FE50. My enduro is plated and a dual sport. D.S. Are “pure fun” and you’ll be thankful you have one during the coming apacolyspse.
sweet
And the plated part won't be necessary at all (during the apacolypse). I never bother with that on mine. We live in a rural area and stay off the main highway except for crossing and the local cops never mess with us.
I think it’s because we all grew up before the Internet. I loved Riding Motorcross and Enduro Bikes, then the Big Street Bikes. It’s just still something we love to do. It’s a Adventure. We moved to Adventure Bikes when we got old because they Serve 2 Purposes. Touring and Off Road. It is just the perfect Bike.👍❤️
I started out on trails in the ‘70’s and bought a cruiser later in life. Joined multiple rider groups but just never found my tribe in the v-twin world. My boss (of ten years) had a 1st gen vstrom and rode it from Atlanta to key west, bashed the muffler in Moab and rode the mountains of New England just to watch the colors. The bike now sits in my garage and a new chapter is beginning. I’ve met like minded men my age (late 40s and early 50s) and we don’t ride fast or try iron- butt challenges. We enjoy the slower side of life complete with shorter trail rides and catching our diner with the packable fishing rods. I love returning to the days of paper maps and stories around camp fires. This is why the dual sport world is my tribe. Welcome.
Been a harley rider forever. Had a honda ct70 when i was a kid, lived everyday on bicycles in my youth. Bought a 22 excf 500 at 50 yrs old. Wanted a dirt bike since i was 12. Love getting to a trail with a licence plate. Freedom.
There’s old riders and there’s bold riders, you’ve met the kind of men who have made choices good enough that now they’re out on 1250’s and 1290’s.
I’ve been riding dual sport bikes all my life. Started on a 1971 Honda Sl70 at 9 yr old..ripping up local back roads and fields n woods. I’m now 36. I have 76 bikes. Most all vintage dual sport bikes. Love my 86 Yamaha tt350. But I spend a lot of time on my 71 Honda sl350. Like my grand and great grandfather I’ll ride till my 90s and I’ll die still trying to ride.
@hondaxl250k0 Hi, are you selling any of your dual sports?
Well said. I'm 60. Started on a ct 70 my friend had a Harley x 90. A true gem. As we're the XR 75. Dt 400 xl 350 another kid had a Suzuki ts 50. Now ido the Harley thing but still do the daulsport thing on my drz 400 daulsport such fun bikes
@@adamtisch8358 my dads a few years older than you and still rides a crf150. Lol. He says streets are too dangerous now
Great video, I myself just bought a 2022 CRF450RL at the ripe age of 51 after a 25 year hiatus and like that other yahoo I never had any interest in riding on the asphalt until I did. 80/20 is the only way to live!!
Thats what I have is the 450RL Its a blast
@@BornAGoon in the er now waiting on x rays.broke my wrist. .I'm number 4 for this afternoon. Trails are like marbles. Pray for rain for all of us in Boise Idaho.
@@bowhunter1227 you are in the we right now damn that sucks
‘21 450RL - give it 1500 miles before you start replacing parts. At 9300 miles I have settled on a better seat, smaller rear sprocket by 2 teeth and the fly wheel weight and find it almost perfect.
Man I think you have found your calling. I hope you can keep finding the inspiration to keep making videos.
Hope to grow the channel more
Ain’t nuttin like a dirt bike, I’m 62. I have a fleet of bikes. Recently shredder in Colorado exposed me to a real dual sport ride. I loved it. Never saw so much bitchin country in a day ever. Now I’m make one of my singletrack bikes a very competent dual sport. So I can get out of my area and hit some new stuff. Exspand your horizons, he said. I know a guy who’s 80 and rides as much as possible in baja
P.s. where is that singletrack? Pm me. I’m in Laughlin come ride
Thanks for watching The single track is in Jean
I’m 52 and ride a ktm 690 enduro r when I want to hit the trails. It’s been great fun and never fails to put a smile on my face. It truly is my time machine because I feel ten years younger every time I throw my leg over it.
does it handle well in the technical stuff Always wondered about weight and power
Amen - my main bike is a 450RL - but every time I borrow my buddies 690 - I grin ear to ear on single track, jeep trail, or twisty back roads and the occasional interstate. Power that never ends, and weight that is manageable
@@BornAGoon it honestly doesn’t feel like a 350ish pound bike to me. The only place it shows it’s limitations is on the highway when I ride with friends that are on larger bikes like the bmw gs800 and they want to roll 80+ mph. The 690 front end gets a light sketchy feeling at those speeds but I feel like it might be the off-road bias tires that I am running. I’ve considered replacing it with the 890 adventure r but don’t look forward to the extra 100 pounds.
@@mikef3300 that’s the bike a wanted first but couldn’t find one
@@BornAGoon I was actually going to get a Honda XR650L it was sold. They had a very clean used Ktm 690 there though for $8000 with barely any miles on it so I bought it and am glad that I got it instead of the XR. It’s my first ktm but it’s been very reliable for the 5000 miles I’ve put on it so far. I ride it more than my Harley or GSXR750 because it truly is fun with two wheels
Really well summarised man! It all resonated with me. I’m 52 and big motivation to buy the ‘22 KLX450R and a ‘19 CRF250L for my son I just have to get out, make some memories and pass on some experiences. Came off a couple of weeks ago and cracked a rib and that really reminds you your alive too! More do what I say and not what I do kind of experiences for him!😁👊
Great job! Yeah you hit the nail on the head. Love my 300L Rally, put over 4K miles on it this year. Plus dual sport old guys are the best! :D
I’m very fortunate to be 19 and getting out there and seeing the world with my XR650r. It’s too bad there’s not as many of the dual sport/ADV community as there Should be.
I rode street bikes for many years. My first new bike was a 1981 Honda CB900 custom. Last year I starting thinking that I always wanted to ride an off road bike. At 67 years I realized I was quickly "aging out" so last December I bought a new Honda CRF300l. I've been riding with friends that are also in their 60's and I'm loving it! I may not be as fast as them, but I go everywhere they go and my smile is every bit as big as theirs. I live on Vancouver Island and the backcountry is absolutely beautiful here.
Truth! I'm only 44 but the group of guys I ride with are my age or older. I'll ride as long as I'm able. Best times ever!
I got goose bumps listening to your soliloquy. Its so true.
I just found this channel and already greatly appreciate your view point and content.
61 and I ride a couple of times a week. Started riding the Las Vegas deserts when I was 12 on a Honda 50, then the Honda XR75, then the Honda Elsinore 125, that was back in 1974. Our Junior High School, Cashman, had a cycle club and we had desert races in the desert around Vegas (all houses now). Fast forward 48 years and I am still riding, although I am in SW Utah now. I'm on a 2022 CRF450RL and a CRF250L. Why duel sport? Because I like to ride not load trailers and drive and unload. I love the versatility of my bikes, the ability to jump on and go. I don't need the adrenaline thrill I used to seek when younger, I get a thrill just riding, just being on my bike, riders will understand. I'm training my sons to enjoy the adventure riding, exploring, and reaching a destination, not just going around a track. Thanks for the video, good job.
I had an Elsinore 125
I'm 36 and have been riding sport bikes since I was 21. I've always liked the idea of dual sports, so I finally got one this past April, went with the crf300l. I can honestly say I've had more fun on the 300l than any sport bike I have owned. I also have an xsr900, but am thinking of selling it next spring and getting a Tenere 700. Riding on paved roads is boring to me now. Ride safe, guys!
That’s something I’ve come to notice as well. While in my opinion nothing beats the look of a sport bike (and the feeling you get a couple times a year when you use it as intended) I get so much more enjoyment out of adv bikes, dual sports and supermotos!
I recently turned 18 earlier in August, and I love dual sports it provides my childish love of dirt bikes and the capabilities of a road bike
Once you really ride - you ride for life!
I am 38. I've never owned a motorcycle until this year. I got an electric dualsport and I have been having a blast exploring the area around my home. I have never had the urge to ride a motorcycle until I got into riding ebikes and offroad electric scooters. The exploration is just so much fun. My average speed is only about 30mph I just enjoy the peace, adventure and freedom a bike gives you. And being electric I can go so many places noisy gas bikes cannot go. This is horse country and my neighbors would not appreciate me riding a gas powered bike.
Electric dualsport sounds dope just so I could poach some of the local trails 😂
Twice I've taken it down a mountain bike trail at local park. Definitely couldn't do that with a gas bike. Really hard to find places to ride on east coast.
@@michaelpatrick6984 I would totally do that! The other part that seems nice is if you have something smaller and without gas you can get it into a car or van if you want to poach some trails. You riding a Sur-Ron or something plated?
@@chadwells7562 It is a 300lbs zero. I ordered a 600lbs hitch mounted carrier yesterday. Going to haul it on that. Comes with a little ramp that folds up. It is a bit heavier than the average dirt bike, but still light enough to ride offroad. I do want a SurRon though or something similar. I also have a 55mph electric scooter that you stand on like a wake board. The scooter is honestly more fun than anything else if you have a place to ride it. Next thing I want is an electric hydrofoil for the pond^
48yo here
I've kept a dual sport for over 15yrs now.
My love of vintage bikes now has me on a 1973 Yamaha AT3
Love it!
31 years old, been dual sport riding for 10 years here and there, got a built 1983 Honda XL600R and a new Ducati DesertX... Glad I got a lifetime hobby!!!
Well, 56 here, never owned a dual sport and 42 years into the game I still race big bore 2-strokes in the desert, but you are right about age. Dual sport guys tend to be older. Interesting observation.
I hit 57 last week… have a 99 KX500, 02 KDX200 and a 2020 KTM690 Enduro R. I ride the 690 almost daily, retired and thinking about buying an ultralight aircraft next. I guess responsibility and obligations kept me from doing a lot of stuff when I was younger but I have no regrets. I’m now able to do what I want, when I want on or in whatever I want.
First bike when I was 8 years old. Benelli dynamo.
A 50cc trail bike. Mine had head, tail lights & blinkers.
I have not been without a dual sport since. I am 56 & have ridden all over the US.
I have owned 20+ bikes of all kinds. I settled up on a KLX 250 & am very happy.
I don’t know what I would do without a bike.
I started DS on a Honda SL 175 in 1980. Let me add a thought or two: DS keeps the mind and body sharp. It also takes fantasy to reality quickly, the moment you throw a leg over the seat. The adrenaline and post ride euphoria is pretty long lasting. And, it’s way better than golf.
I had an SL 70 once It was piss yellow lol
I'm 63, and I have ridden dirt bikes since age 10, when I started on a Bultaco Lobito 100. I currently ride a Yamaha XT225, because it's carbureted, and because it's the only dual sport bike I can still get on, with a 30.5" seat. Even then I never ride alone. I have had about a million flat tires riding off road, and seriously doubt my ability to repair a flat tire by myself out in the middle of the AZ desert. My bike has a custom made centerstand on it, so I'm pretty sure I could get a wheel off, but it took me an entire day to replace a tire at home. Fortunately I currently have someone to ride with who is capable of fixing a flat tire. Tubeless tires would allow me to ride alone again (I ride over 15,000 miles a year alone on a street bike with tubeless tires) but manufacturers apparently have no interest in making dual sport bikes with tubeless tires.
this is the first video I've watched of yours, the algorithm is working for you. I'm 41 and been dual sporing for a year, the entire video and every ride I also wish I got into it earlier. but then I think there is also a level of self preservation that comes a 40 that"s required too... I say this even after my last ride a few days ago, I'm waiting to see a doc for a feel I may of cracked a rib after laying my DR650 down, yet I'm still smiling and can't wait to go again. keep riding guys
Thanks for watching I appreciate it
This was a really good video. Got my first bike, a 1990 dr250s about two years ago at age 31 and fell in love with riding the roads and trails here in Northern California.
54 years and in my second year. I don't think about anything else.
Another old retired guy here and have been riding dual sports since the early 70's back when you could actually get street legal 2 stroke dual sports.
Along the way have club raced 1000cc sportbikes, owned full fledged 900lb touring bikes a few cruisers and throw in a couple of v-max's for stoplight to stoplight fun along with multiple strictly dirt bikes from 4 stokes to 500cc two strokes.
But honestly after the growing up thrill of the speed of the sportbikes were quenched nothing puts a smile on my face like a well sorted dual sport exploring the back country and that has lasted for roughly 60 years of riding!
Considering I bought a drz400sm to get a more offroad tire and to get a more dual sport ride. I think being older, me 41 this winter and just wanting a license in spring. It's more about the adventure and not having to go ridiculous speeds to have fun. Plus offroad driving takes a different skill I don't think you can find sticking to just pavement. I'm looking to enjoy the next part of my life getting a license.
I have been riding enduro/dual sport bikes for over 55 years. Still doing it at 72 and still love it. Just not ready to let the old man in I guess.
Nice vid. Says what a lot of us can’t put into words. I’m on a new Africa Twin dct after 5 years on a AT manual. The dct has improved my skills and confidence. I’m going to put in a few years on the top heavy big double thumper before I step down permanently to the crf300 Rally.
As my late riding friend said as he was declining: “a man can have a lot of fun on a motorcycle at 40 mph”
Thank you for watching
I got my first Honda 50 50 years ago. Rode dirt bikes into my early 20's then switched to street bikes. A couple years ago I bought a little Honda CRF250L. I haven't had so much fun in over 20 years. I really missed flirting with the limits of traction on a dirt bike. It's my favorite thing to do these days.
"It is just so beautiful out here"! I am turning 62. I love it! I went to Walker Valley thinking I was probably the only old guy here. To my surprise, I saw a lot of old guys like me. Honda CRF 250F is lighter and it has enough power ! Enjoy your life!
In the 80's we grew up riding 3 wheelers and dirt bikes, a lot of us still ride pretty hard, bones don't heal as quick anymore though lol. When I am on something with handlebars I still try and keep up with the kids. I have to work out now to keep in shape so I can do this stuff sometimes I pull out the old 2 stroke stuff and give em a run for their money.
As an addendum to this, the shop I work for recently hosted a group of Aussies who flew over to travel the entire US on KTM 890 ADV's that they bought from us. Prior to their arrival I had assumed we were about to meet a bunch of Hemsworth brothers but all of them were over 50 as well.
Yep 56.5 bought the CRF450RL. Had several dual sports decades ago. Reliving my youth on the backroads
Just found your video! Lots of good truth in there! I'm 61, raced motocross in the 80's and 90's, then enduros and woods riding. Dual sport bikes just keep us in touch with what we love but don't want to hang it all out and risk breaking out necks anymore!! I now have a KTM 890R that I have done some BDR's with and camping and a KTM 350 that is my "dirt bike". Just because we are old does not mean we don't want to still enjoy motorcyles!!
Awesome video, I’m a nooby at 50yrs and having a freakin ball💪
sweet still have many years left
The age thing is funny and so true! I've always been into sport bikes and fast nakeds (still am) but got into ADV bikes in my 40s. I think it's a combination of things:
* You appreciate the outdoors and your surroundings more;
* You've kinda seen and experienced it all and these bikes allow you to explore a whole new world and create new experiences;
* You enjoy more solitude and peace and quiet when you get older, another thing you can easily find with dual sports and Adv bikes.
At age 59, I can't argue with you. Just wish some of my old friends would join me instead of sitting about waiting to die. Rather use my remaining time making memories than reminiscing which is what we tend to do now, usually with a scotch in our hands.
I'm an 18yo from Australia with a duel sport rn and it's just perfect it does everything I need it to and extremely comfortable the whole time
I am a mere 53 years old. Been riding since I was 12. Used to race 3 wheelers (still have 2 of them). I also have a DRZ400, DR650, Goldwing and Yamaha Stratoliner (cruiser). Having a bike for every occasion is never a bad thing.
Today we are the youngest that we will ever be again. Get out there and rip it up while you can!
What a great video! As an older, less experienced Dual Sport Rider, you are spot on! Like the guy who was sitting on the rock enjoying the moment, as we get older it seems we can appreciate the backcountry gifts of nature. It also keeps us challenged without extreme risk. Great video Brother!
Thank you for watching
It's a life style man. Once you get it you live it till you die.
Very true
I can say that as a 19 year old and the owner of dual sports both from the 60s and 80s, I enjoy the simplicity of taking your time going anywhere to catch a good view
perfect age you are
I’m 28 years old bought my first dual sport bike couple months ago a KTM 890 adv r. One thing I definitely noticed was that everyone is so much older than I am. In a group of 10 KTM riders I’m the youngest everyone else is 40+. Happy I got it young enduro was always something I thought was cool. A bike with no limitations was the reason I went adventure.
That is a nice bike the 890
Great video I haven't had a bike for 40 years I'm retiring soon and getting a dual sport for a little exploration on my own time and I think you nailed it here
Go for it!
Thank you for this video!! I am going to be 69 in July, and I have not rode in 16 years. I will be buying the Honda CRF 300l this year. Looking forward to riding again. I don't want to live the rest of my life without riding.
53 years young rider in Live Free or Die state. Love to ride & not old enough or mature enough to own a Harley. In our barn I have a 13 BMW K1600GT, 19 DRZ400SM, 20 Yamaha MT07 & 20 Harley Road Glide the last 2 bikes are my 26 year, old son’s bikes. I love going into the barn & play what to ride today game. 😂. Ride on!!
Dual sport bikes are as close to having a horse, as possible. For those of us who never had our own horse, but still wanted to go off road, it really was the only real choice. But whatever you ride; enjoy it, and try to share your joy with others. In middle age, I bought another 11, and started leading weekend tours of the area with my friends, because, well no one else could be bothered to recon the ride beforehand. So I got to ride it twice; first all alone, and second while leading a group of riders who wanted to enjoy and explore, but simply weren't biker 'enough' to do it on their own. Paid off over time, as a couple of others started coming with me for the pre-ride and eventually helped being the leader sometimes. Those days are gone, as my knees eventually caused me to stop riding regularly, but the memories will stay with me forever.
Nearly bought a Royal Enfield Classic 350 this Spring. I've had BMW R65, Honda Transalp, cd175, cg125, Benly 200, Kawasaki 650, been 6 years without a bike. I'm 61 and bought a crf300l this July. Always wanted a small dual sport.
Good choice 300L is perfect
I bought a 2022 Royal Enfield Enfield, put wider more comfortable bars on it and love it for commuting to work, or running to the local grocery store. I'm 60, and also have a 2017 Africa Twin, and a 2000 Harley Davidson Fat Boy. All three bikes give me fantastic enjoyment, but are completely different in both power and application. Life is good, Ride happy! 🇺🇸
just found your channel a few days ago and must say i like your style a lot. This here is (so far) my personal favorite.
Thnk you Martin
Both my wife and I are 75 years old. While I was in the hospital in April having triple bypass surgery, my wife went out and bought a '23 KLX230sm Kawasaki and traded in her '15 MT-09 900cc Yamaha. Just before my hospital visit, I traded in my '94 Yamaha V-max and bought a nice little '23 Honda GROM. We both will want to ride motorcycles until we are in our grave but big heavy bikes are getting to be just too much of a problem moving around, so we both have opted for downsizing. My wife does get a lot of stares as I can bet there are not too many 75 year old ladies walking through the door at Kawasaki to buy another bike. It is STILL all about riding motorcycles are fun. For longer rides I still have my '14 Honda CB1100 and my '10 Honda VFR 1200F.
I think you covered it well. I rode dirt bikes and MX as a kid and teen. Then in my early 30's had a street scoot. Then went without one until I approached 50. At that point in life I think many of us have been knocked around a bit and we start asking ourselves, what used to bring us simple joy? For me, dual sport easily checked all the boxes. End of 2019 I picked up a lightly used DR650 for $5k. Easy to ride, on and off road. Super simple, reliable, easy for me to tinker/modify. Dual sport just fits.
im 47, rookie duel sport rider, honestly a back injury took me out of backpacking years ago, i have all the gear but ouchie on me back, so i got a duel sport to be my sherpa of sorts. very happy
welcome to the dual sports
A friend and I just got back into riding about three years ago after a 25 year hiatus. Bought a BMW850GSA and he got a KTM890R. We just got back from the Arctic Circle / Dempster Hwy / Tuktoyaktuk. Epic bucket list trip. Now we are both getting smaller dual sports for some local trails / BDR routes. This is the best money I've ever spent.
Thank you for sharing
Great narrative! I appreciate your effort to put this online. It hits home nicely!