Thanks for all your work to help a 73 year old man decide which bike is best for me, after a 50 year absence. My last bike was a 70 Montessa 250 Capra 5, and a 70 Kawasaki 500 mach 3. A middle size bike is probably best for me
I chose the 2018 klr650 for my 1st bike.. 10k mi later I feel I made the right choice. I hate how tall it is as I'm on my toes but after my 1st 450mi round trip on/off road with it I find it to be a perfect fit. I'd be kicking myself with anything lower in power at this point. Bonus I walked out the dealer in 2019 buying it for $5.5k new...
The KLR came out in 1987, not 1997, and in essence uses the 87 engine in 2023, updated with efi. Heavier now than ever before, it's still a comfortable bike to take to the woods, the cafe or bar, or commute to work on. It's just not blazingly fast, pretty or nimble, just shows up each and every day.
I think the Versys 300 is what I'm looking for in a second bike now. I've got the big fat powerful sports tourer for road riding, but I feel an urge for something lighter and more agile, and that will also ride decently off-road and not cost a bomb to fix when I crash into a bush.
@@Nigriff I think I've changed my mind to a CB500X now. There's very little actual off-roading around, but lots of narrow little lanes with grass and gravel on the hard surface. The big sports tourer does NOT handle those at all gracefully, especially laden with luggage and 2-up, and following the road blindly because it's too long to turn around on narrow lanes. There are neat-looking roads all over that I daren't take an expensive bike down for fear I'll end up doing 80 without realising it and hit gravel, and V-twins just don't have the power I love. 500 is about right.
My first off-road capable ADV is a brand new 2022 KLR. I chose it because it is a good basic adventure motorcycle, is well supported with incredible supportive Internet forums and it comes, right of the dealership floor, with bags, fog lights, EFI, ABS and a large 6.1 gallon gas tank. I see it as the bike to take me anywhere I want to go, on or off road, until I decide whether "adventure" motorcycling versus "pavement touring" is for me. Thank you for a helpful and informative video!
Depending on how you plan to maintain the bike, consider the service requirements, especially valve check intervals. Himalayans are easy to maintain for most riders.
honda is not the only twin on the list, the versys x300 also has a parallel twin engine, which is part of why i plan on purchasing this bike in the next few months, because the 180°parallel twin runs extremely smooth(albeit while in higher rpm range than most, but that does not make it "buzzy") and quite quiet as well, which i appreciate in bikes... also i really like the 2022 colors. another item, the 19"/17" front/rear wheel size combo is a. common one among adevture bikes, being a compromise between 21/18 and the 17/17 that most dual sports and road bikes have respectively, so, for any adventure bike, having a 19/17 combo isnt really a knock as long as it has solid 50/50 tires on it or similar, imo anyway... thats all i got for now, cheers.
Versys-X 300 is an excellent bike. after 2000 miles in first 6 weeks i realized that it benefits from cranking the rear preload to max. a visit to marketplace for some used im2600 cases, caribou cases diy kit and a givi monokey rear luggage brackets and you're ready for almost anything. STAY AWAY FROM KAWASAKI FACTORY ACCESSORIES.
I am at the other end of my ADV bike era. Having ridden small trail bikes fitted with a big tank ( XR250 Honda), 600 cc singles ( DR650), a much modified DRZ400E and a big multi-cyclinder ADV bike ( Tiger 800), my advice is to start small if you are new to riding on dirt. As the author said the down side is that you do get blown around in wind on highways. The other key is to identify what sort of riding you intend to mostly do. If you want to do fast hills riding on the sealed roads on the weekend, then the small twin cylinder bikes are good. Weight adds stability as long as it is carried low in the chassis ( Himalayan) , but needs more power to move that weight ( more fuel used per trip/ limits distance= need to carry extra fuel= more weight). Being able to flat foot the bike is good for a beginner, especially if they are short. The sort of riding I intend to do in the future will be shorter, slower trips, so I will either keep my DRZ400 or maybe try a Himalayan. I understand that EBC brand (GG model )brake pads improve the brakes on that bike. BTW I lowered the DRZ suspension 40 mm; at 5' 11" ( 180 cm) I was tip toe after I stiffened the springs to match the camping gear weight I carry. We are all looking for the Unicorn bike!
Excellent Points. I have DRZ and V8555 I should say highly modded DRZ. The DRZ is a go anywhere bike. Well suited to the mission plus mount on hitch carrier on my Outback take to!the trail. The MG V85 possibly the most comfortable bike I,have owned. Slap on the knobs trailmax adv comfortably takes on dual track ie CDR TAT. These journeys are half highway half trail. Imho the best of both worlds.
Have you even seen any of these bikes in person, let alone ridden them? You know nothing of the Versysx. It's a twin and the buzzy feeling is so mild that the mirrors stay clear even up to redline. With cases, it's a very capable adventure bike.
Have you ever ridden any of the bikes mentioned here? I assume you ride the Kawi. I passed that up for the Tiger 800 myself. Does the Versys line offer an off-road focused model? I see images of cast wheels. When purchasing my ADV bike I had narrowed it down to the GS 800 and the Tiger 800. The Triumph for me felt like a better motorcycle.
My thoughts on the list depend on what rider’s priorities are. If you want to focus on trail riding and off road, probably the 300 CRF Rally with a suspension upgrade, if you want to ride BDRs and take long adventure trips on a budget with only hitting the pavement for long stretches when necessary, the KLR 650 all day, want a nice affordable touring bike that can hit some light off road sections, embrace the Honda CB500X or Kawi Versys. Want something in between and the best tech out of all of them, don’t sleep on the KTM 390 Adventure. I personally really like the value you get with the KLR 650, the CB500X, and the KTM 390 Adventure. All are great bikes that should last a good while depending on where one plans to ride. Great list and the only bikes I could think to add are a DRZ 400s, a used Triumph Tiger 800 XC, used 800 XCx or used Tiger 900 Rally.
Really Great narrative analysis of all them in details and honest genuine opinion. I like the romantic aspects you highlight like in closure of the video, of what you actually dedicate yourself at, choosing to owe a 2 wheel stuff. Best regards from Uk ☺👏👋
it is funny how on motobikes thinner tire is good for vutting through sand. In bicycles - thinner tires are worse on sand and you want wider one to NOT cut it :)
the cb500x also has a upgrade kit from rally raid which gives you spoke wheels and you can all get a suspension upgrade as well giving you and extra two half inches in lift
a good friend of mine that owns a local shop had a 310 gs come in with bent fork tubes from a driveway tipover. that is all that I have to say about those things.
Excellent Points. I have DRZ and V85TT should say highly modded DRZ. The DRZ is a go anywhere bike. Well suited to the mission plus mount on hitch carrier on my Outback take to the trail. The MG V85 possibly the most comfortable bike I have owned. Slap on the knobs trailmax adv comfortably takes on dual track ie CDR TAT. These journeys are half highway half trail. Imho the best of both worlds.
Gotta say the best adventure bike for beginners is not an "adventure" bike in my humble opinion. If you're looking at riding a motorcycle offroad for the first time it's significantly more fun if it doesn't weigh 400 plus pounds. Just my opinion
With a couple of modifications the Honda Rally is a great bike for anyone. Having owned several dirt bikes, and a couple of 600-700cc street bikes in my time, the 300 Rally is bringing me more joy to ride than any other bike I have ever owned, and it will take me wherever I want to go.
As of today may 2023... A klrs still have a $1000 dealer discount making then 5.8 k... 1 dealer is selling them at 5.3k new.. and a versysy 300x at 5.3k... hard to decide.. really want the versys but cant overlook the klr price
Decide based on how tall and strong you are ,cause the klr is a porky 450 pounder and more with fuel and equipment. You won't be able to pick it up if it falls.....
Very good list that will fit a variety of body types and get the job done! I like the KLRs Tractor like performance and EFI, but it’s pig heavy and for the life of me they missed the mark terribly with the instrument cluster. Honda is trying with CB500X, but appears to have an identity crisis. The CRF Rally is suspended way to soft and a little tall. In my mind, Honda should develop a cross between the 500X and 300 Rally and give us the 500 Rally Twin. Keep it light, the price at under $8500 and it will sell like hotcakes.
Honda says the seat height of the Rally is 35.2" not the 38.4 you state. You didn't mention the weight of any of them. A very important spec I would think.
@@BornAGoon I went with the 2022 KLR. They did more than just freshen up the gen 3 tho. Upgraded suspension, fuel injection, longer wheel base, larger redesigned fuel tank, electronic displays, improved abs, stronger welded subframe just to name a few.
I have had several large bore dual sports, and I just picked up a CRf300L Rally last week. By far my favorite Dual Sport bike Ive ever had. It added that little bit of extra oomph my WR250Rs needed and is much more streetable than my WR450Fs and DRZ400E.
@@BornAGoon they are, but they're so cheap that even if you spend $1k on upgrading the suspension they're still a bargain. I spent $900 on my 250 Rally, re-springing and re-valving both ends (keeping the stock shock itself), and it's superb now. I consider the only reasons not to get one are if you're short, or if you need to cruise at over 110 km/h (70 MPH).
@@BruceHoult Yes I also agree. I love my CRF300L Rally but have not upgraded the suspension yet. I weigh 153 lb but it is too soft for me and I am not a hard core rider at the age of 71. It is well worth the extra to upgrade the suspension.
Its a back-torque limiter In an easier version It reduces the amount of engine braking on your bike So when you downshift it "slips " the rear wheel when it tries to drive your engine faster
Not a beginner, I’m the guy looking for a second bike. Something that can be used quickly, that I don’t care about (no desire to farkle it), is affordable, do all and fun. My primary is not for everyday or all year; too much chrome, and it’s a dedicated street cruiser so limited function (a Harley). Had lots of bikes from sport to dirt and everything in between. So for me second bike constraints are; 400cc and under for cheap insurance, good highway ergos as the shortest round trip is 250 miles of highway - so good seat and not to buzzy, affordable which means the cost of the bike is it (not the bike and 3-5g to make it what I need) and finally it has to be available. At this point I haven’t found the perfect bike which ticks me off because I believe they all could make it… The Honda 500; bumps me into a higher insurance class so no go, and it just seems exceedingly bland. Honda Rally; A little to dirt focused but very appealing but I don’t want a dirt bike on the highway. Plus they are unobtainium here, a guy I know has been waiting a long time and has lost a season, still with no bike and no ETA. The Royal Enfield; 11cc costs a lot of insurance on this ride…and on this bike it just tips the scales. X300; also a twin, checks all the boxes but wow, that’s a lot of RPM for a long time…not sure how available it is either as I haven’t seen one on the floor in a long time. A 400cc version tuned for lower rpm/torque would be hammer on nail, but they don’t build it which is unfortunate as they already have the mill in a street bike. KTM390; by the time you add all the farkles which it should have come with (wheels, pegs, a decent seat) you are now at the price point of far better bikes, albeit bike in the “only bike” class, not the “extra bike” class. An “R” version would be handy… KLR650; a bike with a reputation built on farkles…plus higher insurance costs. Add the extras and you might as well get a T7 (same cost pretty much). You missed the Dr650; but same issues as the KLR (been there, done that). So maybe a KTM390…if it only had a better seat…(first impressions are a lot). Good video, thanks.
Mistake: "Honda CB500X is the only twin cylinder engine" is simply not true. The Kawasaki Versys x300 has also a twin cylinder engine. Therefore also not true that the Versys 300x is very buzzy, just the opposite it is smooth, and only a little buzzy.
In my late 30s, never been on a motorcycle. Thinking about Versys-X 300 but someone told me maybe a dual sport like XT250 or KLX230 is a bit more beginner friendly? Any thoughts would be great. 175lb, 31in inseam, 90% highway 10% dirt, preferably to hold a passenger when skill level gets there but might upgrade by then (prefer not to)
Considering kawasaki make a ninja 400 , why don't they make a versys 400cc as well is beyond 🤔 my logic. It really needs to be updated. The 300cc is also a twin.... tho
@wickedleeloopy I mentioned that in my kawasaki customer satisfaction survey. I've put 4500 miles on my 2022 X in 4 months. Also mentioned the lack of led lighting amongst other things. Disappointed that 2023 is still a 300cc
The perfect adventure bike is a dual sport under 400 pounds. You don't need a bigger tank if it gets good mpg. You do need a comfortable seat. You don't need different electronic modes, ABS, cruise control, traction control, etc. If you need these things then a better alternative is to learn how to ride correctly. You don't need a bike with huge horsepower to travel over 70mph. The current batch of "adventure bikes" are nothing more than street bikes with off road tires. There are a lot of people that try riding the TAT on big bikes. Their thoughts are that you need the big bike weight, power and comfort for the ride home. That just isn't sound thinking. Are you riding the TAT for the adventure of it or are you riding for the way home as your primary reason for going. Buy the right bike for the task and no other reason.
It's so sad that all those pre 2000 small bore dual sports are gone now, on the lower end of this list you may find a (now reliable) Chinese bike. Anyway your list is awesome ;)
If you added KLR650 to the list why forgot its rival DR650? Also built like a tank and bullet proof but considerably lighter and better offroad. All the bikes listed, but CB500, are horrible on freeways anyway.
Honda 300 Rally is 38.4 inches at the seat? Did they add 3 inches to the 2021 model? The KLR 650 is not a beginners bike. There is so much wrong information and mispronunciation in this video that it is useless.
That is what the specs said. I think the KLR 650 is a beginner bike Its slow and forgiving Way more forgiving than a 390 adventure Please tell us the proper list on how you see it
Yes, the Rally is higher.. However, with the rider, it goes lower because it is a trampoline.. Rally 300 is the most PROPER adventure bike than can match the way it is advertised..
@@Ikkimoto18 It's not 38.4 inches as stated in the vid. The 2022 Rally is 35.4 inches. That's the type of thing I was complaining about in this vid. Flat out wrong information.
You really must not like Suzuki do you? This is the second vid of yours where you not only didn't include the V-Strom (650 in this case), but to not even give a mention, and to include the CB500 and not the V-strom, please explain.
Why do western bikers always says beginners motorcycle that has a smaller displacement. So does a professional dirt bike rider who uses a 125cc or a little bigger displacement is still a beginner? Only Americans says beginner bikes. There’s no such thing. So if I ride a small displacement engine I’m still a beginner even I rode 30 years of my life? So should I always have to buy bigger displacement to be called a intermediate and a lot bigger as I go on ? That’s why there’s lesser younger Americans are riding bikes because the so called beginner.
@@BornAGoon Yeah, I bought a 650V a week ago, in pretty damn good condition. With luggage racks, crash bars, usb power etc. 2200 Euros. There are still a couple of decent ones on sale here in Bulgaria around 2000-2500 Euros and a decent 1988 600V model for 1700. The Transalp offers supreme comfort on pavement even 2up with my gf, great offroading capabilities for the type of bike, lightweight and powerful enough for stretches of highway. Happily cruises at 120kph, easily reaches 150-160 for overtaking or when you're in a real hurry.
How can you say these are the best to own ,when you oviously havent ridden all of them . The Versys is 2 cyl btw. And its barely buzzy. The honda is not as tall as you say. Ect . Look i liked the vid. But if your going to put out opinions get receipts. Just sayin
I mentioned I did not ride many of these bikes Its a general list not a shoot out If somebody want to provide me with all the bikes I will gladly compare them Other than that all I have is my convos with other riders and their general complaints and likes
The klr650 is just a fat pig. Sure, it has the ground clearance and wheel size of a good adventure bike, but it's just so top-heavy it's horrible on single track at anything but a snail's pace. Not to mention it has a couple inherit issues that Kawasaki have yet to address. Dr650 with a windscreen, bigger tank, and a better seat. Now there's an adventure bike.
![6 Best Used [Multi-Cylinder] Adventure Bike Bargains Under $7,000 USD | Ride More, Spend Less](/img/n.gif)
The Versys 300x is also a twin cylinder like the Honda cbx.
Thanks for all your work to help a 73 year old man decide which bike is best for me, after a 50 year absence. My last bike was a 70 Montessa 250 Capra 5, and a 70 Kawasaki 500 mach 3. A middle size bike is probably best for me
I chose the 2018 klr650 for my 1st bike.. 10k mi later I feel I made the right choice. I hate how tall it is as I'm on my toes but after my 1st 450mi round trip on/off road with it I find it to be a perfect fit. I'd be kicking myself with anything lower in power at this point. Bonus I walked out the dealer in 2019 buying it for $5.5k new...
Nice work thanks for watching
Is it heavy?
@@andrewstorm8240 it’s a 🐖.
Wait until you ride a more road oriented bike on the road
@ I’m on a duke 790 now and still own the KLR. I still stand by my statement of being a great 1st bike.
The KLR came out in 1987, not 1997, and in essence uses the 87 engine in 2023, updated with efi.
Heavier now than ever before, it's still a comfortable bike to take to the woods, the cafe or bar, or commute to work on.
It's just not blazingly fast, pretty or nimble, just shows up each and every day.
I think the Versys 300 is what I'm looking for in a second bike now. I've got the big fat powerful sports tourer for road riding, but I feel an urge for something lighter and more agile, and that will also ride decently off-road and not cost a bomb to fix when I crash into a bush.
I love my little x300 Versys... until I get on the highway
@@Nigriff I think I've changed my mind to a CB500X now. There's very little actual off-roading around, but lots of narrow little lanes with grass and gravel on the hard surface.
The big sports tourer does NOT handle those at all gracefully, especially laden with luggage and 2-up, and following the road blindly because it's too long to turn around on narrow lanes. There are neat-looking roads all over that I daren't take an expensive bike down for fear I'll end up doing 80 without realising it and hit gravel, and V-twins just don't have the power I love. 500 is about right.
My first off-road capable ADV is a brand new 2022 KLR. I chose it because it is a good basic adventure motorcycle, is well supported with incredible supportive Internet forums and it comes, right of the dealership floor, with bags, fog lights, EFI, ABS and a large 6.1 gallon gas tank. I see it as the bike to take me anywhere I want to go, on or off road, until I decide whether "adventure" motorcycling versus "pavement touring" is for me. Thank you for a helpful and informative video!
Very nice!
Depending on how you plan to maintain the bike, consider the service requirements, especially valve check intervals. Himalayans are easy to maintain for most riders.
I like Himalayans
I think the 390 is the same or similar on Maintenace and Intervals.
Just grabbed a 2015 Honda CB500X with 1000 miles on it for my first bike. Pristine condition and very happy with my purchase.
Very nice! Keep me posted on your bike experiences
How has the CB500X X been working out for you the last two years?
honda is not the only twin on the list, the versys x300 also has a parallel twin engine, which is part of why i plan on purchasing this bike in the next few months, because the 180°parallel twin runs extremely smooth(albeit while in higher rpm range than most, but that does not make it "buzzy") and quite quiet as well, which i appreciate in bikes... also i really like the 2022 colors. another item, the 19"/17" front/rear wheel size combo is a. common one among adevture bikes, being a compromise between 21/18 and the 17/17 that most dual sports and road bikes have respectively, so, for any adventure bike, having a 19/17 combo isnt really a knock as long as it has solid 50/50 tires on it or similar, imo anyway... thats all i got for now, cheers.
Yes I know I messed that one up
I'd never buy a twin cylinder bike or a bike with less than a 21" front wheel for riding adventures.
Just got the X300 and love it!
Versys-X 300 is an excellent bike. after 2000 miles in first 6 weeks i realized that it benefits from cranking the rear preload to max. a visit to marketplace for some used im2600 cases, caribou cases diy kit and a givi monokey rear luggage brackets and you're ready for almost anything. STAY AWAY FROM KAWASAKI FACTORY ACCESSORIES.
@@blueforest4589 He's a wanted be .lol
I am at the other end of my ADV bike era. Having ridden small trail bikes fitted with a big tank ( XR250 Honda), 600 cc singles ( DR650), a much modified DRZ400E and a big multi-cyclinder ADV bike ( Tiger 800), my advice is to start small if you are new to riding on dirt. As the author said the down side is that you do get blown around in wind on highways. The other key is to identify what sort of riding you intend to mostly do. If you want to do fast hills riding on the sealed roads on the weekend, then the small twin cylinder bikes are good. Weight adds stability as long as it is carried low in the chassis ( Himalayan) , but needs more power to move that weight ( more fuel used per trip/ limits distance= need to carry extra fuel= more weight). Being able to flat foot the bike is good for a beginner, especially if they are short.
The sort of riding I intend to do in the future will be shorter, slower trips, so I will either keep my DRZ400 or maybe try a Himalayan. I understand that EBC brand (GG model )brake pads improve the brakes on that bike. BTW I lowered the DRZ suspension 40 mm; at 5' 11" ( 180 cm) I was tip toe after I stiffened the springs to match the camping gear weight I carry. We are all looking for the Unicorn bike!
Thanks for watching
Excellent Points. I have DRZ and V8555 I should say highly modded DRZ. The DRZ is a go anywhere bike. Well suited to the mission plus mount on hitch carrier on my Outback take to!the trail. The MG V85 possibly the most comfortable bike I,have owned. Slap on the knobs trailmax adv comfortably takes on dual track ie CDR TAT. These journeys are half highway half trail. Imho the best of both worlds.
Very nice selection, comparison, and criteria. Presented well. This is helpful for me as one trying to buy a solid bike. Thank you.
Thank you for the kind words and I appreciate you watching
Have you even seen any of these bikes in person, let alone ridden them? You know nothing of the Versysx. It's a twin and the buzzy feeling is so mild that the mirrors stay clear even up to redline.
With cases, it's a very capable adventure bike.
Yes I have but in the video I said that I only hear it was buzy but I never rode one
Have you ever ridden any of the bikes mentioned here? I assume you ride the Kawi. I passed that up for the Tiger 800 myself. Does the Versys line offer an off-road focused model? I see images of cast wheels. When purchasing my ADV bike I had narrowed it down to the GS 800 and the Tiger 800. The Triumph for me felt like a better motorcycle.
*I see it in the video... wire wheels on the Versys...*
My thoughts on the list depend on what rider’s priorities are. If you want to focus on trail riding and off road, probably the 300 CRF Rally with a suspension upgrade, if you want to ride BDRs and take long adventure trips on a budget with only hitting the pavement for long stretches when necessary, the KLR 650 all day, want a nice affordable touring bike that can hit some light off road sections, embrace the Honda CB500X or Kawi Versys. Want something in between and the best tech out of all of them, don’t sleep on the KTM 390 Adventure.
I personally really like the value you get with the KLR 650, the CB500X, and the KTM 390 Adventure. All are great bikes that should last a good while depending on where one plans to ride.
Great list and the only bikes I could think to add are a DRZ 400s, a used Triumph Tiger 800 XC, used 800 XCx or used Tiger 900 Rally.
I always wanted to buy a ktm 390 adv and mod it out Thanks for watching
I choose the BMW g310 gs with the rallye raid stage 2 kit from england or the tiger 900
When you do your story on the SWM 600 engine (BMW TE510 engine) don't miss the use of this engine in the Portuguese made AJP PR7 650 Rally
I am not sure if I skept it, but what about yamaha tenere 700?
Really Great narrative analysis of all them in details and honest genuine opinion. I like the romantic aspects you highlight like in closure of the video, of what you actually dedicate yourself at, choosing to owe a 2 wheel stuff. Best regards from Uk ☺👏👋
The Kawasaki Versys 300 is also a twin cylinder.
it is funny how on motobikes thinner tire is good for vutting through sand. In bicycles - thinner tires are worse on sand and you want wider one to NOT cut it :)
the cb500x also has a upgrade kit from rally raid which gives you spoke wheels and you can all get a suspension upgrade as well giving you and extra two half inches in lift
full rally raid 500x is a pretty interesting package. I'm just concerned it may be a bit too small for me as I'm not the lightest guy around
a good friend of mine that owns a local shop had a 310 gs come in with bent fork tubes from a driveway tipover. that is all that I have to say about those things.
That sucks
Excellent Points. I have DRZ and V85TT should say highly modded DRZ. The DRZ is a go anywhere bike. Well suited to the mission plus mount on hitch carrier on my Outback take to the trail. The MG V85 possibly the most comfortable bike I have owned. Slap on the knobs trailmax adv comfortably takes on dual track ie CDR TAT. These journeys are half highway half trail. Imho the best of both worlds.
Thanks for watching
Gotta say the best adventure bike for beginners is not an "adventure" bike in my humble opinion. If you're looking at riding a motorcycle offroad for the first time it's significantly more fun if it doesn't weigh 400 plus pounds. Just my opinion
I agree most should start out on small sub 300 pound bikes
cool video - more please
Thank you
I really appreciate the information and the quality of this video. Thank you!
Thank you
The BMW also had cast wheels like the CB500, in addition Versos x300 twin listed does not have much torque unlike the Honda.
I bought the Himalayan, couldn't be happier.
Just talked about the Himilayan 650 in this video th-cam.com/video/_ZDMVO6qKaY/w-d-xo.html
Excellent narration bro. 👍
Glad you liked it!
With a couple of modifications the Honda Rally is a great bike for anyone. Having owned several dirt bikes, and a couple of 600-700cc street bikes in my time, the 300 Rally is bringing me more joy to ride than any other bike I have ever owned, and it will take me wherever I want to go.
Do you find it down on power?
@@BornAGoon I found it to meet my expectations for a slightly over weight 286cc dirt bike.
The price of a 300cc bike in 2022 is almost the same as a 600cc bike in back in 2018. In about 4-5 years, the prices seemed to have doubled.
shits so expensive now
VERSYS for street riders but occasionally do a trail. Honda Rally for dirt riding but for someone not wanting to haul it.
Have you done trails on your Versys
@@BornAGoon Not yet. Still trying to find some legal ones in SW Ct where i'm at. If you have any ideas, contacts, please let me know.
As of today may 2023... A klrs still have a $1000 dealer discount making then 5.8 k... 1 dealer is selling them at 5.3k new.. and a versysy 300x at 5.3k... hard to decide.. really want the versys but cant overlook the klr price
Decide based on how tall and strong you are ,cause the klr is a porky 450 pounder and more with fuel and equipment. You won't be able to pick it up if it falls.....
Very good list that will fit a variety of body types and get the job done!
I like the KLRs Tractor like performance and EFI, but it’s pig heavy and for the life of me they missed the mark terribly with the instrument cluster. Honda is trying with CB500X, but appears to have an identity crisis. The CRF Rally is suspended way to soft and a little tall. In my mind, Honda should develop a cross between the 500X and 300 Rally and give us the 500 Rally Twin. Keep it light, the price at under $8500 and it will sell like hotcakes.
Just did a video update th-cam.com/video/_ZDMVO6qKaY/w-d-xo.html
Very good collection of best of...i have my Suzuki xf freewind.. keep up
Thank you
KLR is almost bulletproof!
Great price and for back roads and highway it's perfect. At 500 pounds it's not good for backwoods single track riding.
Excellent visual explanations of the difference between on- and off-road motorbikes. Great video, I liked it.
Many thanks! I appreciate it
Great video!
Thanks! I appreciate it
Honda says the seat height of the Rally is 35.2" not the 38.4 you state. You didn't mention the weight of any of them. A very important spec I would think.
You cannot beat the CB500X for its double identity! Mine is one of the best light weight ADVbikes there is!
Glad you like it and thanks for watching
Very good production ty
Thank you I appreciate it
Well done .
The KLR 650 was introduced in 1987, not 1997. The Honda is not the only twin cylinder on this list. The Versys x 300 is also a twin cylinder.
I know I made some mistakes there
@@BornAGoon I went with the 2022 KLR. They did more than just freshen up the gen 3 tho. Upgraded suspension, fuel injection, longer wheel base, larger redesigned fuel tank, electronic displays, improved abs, stronger welded subframe just to name a few.
I have had several large bore dual sports, and I just picked up a CRf300L Rally last week. By far my favorite Dual Sport bike Ive ever had. It added that little bit of extra oomph my WR250Rs needed and is much more streetable than my WR450Fs and DRZ400E.
Do you find the 300 rally to be soft on the suspension
@@BornAGoon they are, but they're so cheap that even if you spend $1k on upgrading the suspension they're still a bargain. I spent $900 on my 250 Rally, re-springing and re-valving both ends (keeping the stock shock itself), and it's superb now. I consider the only reasons not to get one are if you're short, or if you need to cruise at over 110 km/h (70 MPH).
@@BruceHoult Yes I also agree. I love my CRF300L Rally but have not upgraded the suspension yet. I weigh 153 lb but it is too soft for me and I am not a hard core rider at the age of 71. It is well worth the extra to upgrade the suspension.
I'm surprized you did not mention either of the Suzuki entrants, DRZ400 or DR650. Both old bikes with large followings.
they could be mentioned but they are Dual sports to me not adventure bikes I put them in my Dual Sport video
What is a "slipper"Clutch?, Very good video,Thanks
Its a back-torque limiter In an easier version It reduces the amount of engine braking on your bike So when you downshift it "slips " the rear wheel when it tries to drive your engine faster
Considering the CF Moto Adventura 650.
I would like to ride one of those Im curious
Rally300 - lots of people say it is dual sport and not adventure. What is your reasoning behind putting it as an ADV?
Fine line between adventure and dual sport these days
Interesting list. I'm returning to riding motorcycles after many years. What do you think about the Yamaha Ténéré 700 as a beginner adventure bike?
I think that is a great choice
Versus is twin cilindros too
G 310 GS all the way: design and functionality linked as one.
Glad you like the GS
I think you got it all right. Thanks. 👍☮️🌞🏍❤️
Thank you for watching
Klr 650 came out in 1987...I believe
I’m really considering the versys 300. I’m riding a Grom back and forth to work. I love the 130mpg but I need something more comfortable.
I would get the 300 That grom has to get buzzy after a while
@@BornAGoon oh yeah. It’s really the bumpy roads that’s getting to me. I’m in my mid 40s so it’s a little rough riding.
Please do the same video with bikes between 200-300 cc
I did one before th-cam.com/video/_TvSVAocwuk/w-d-xo.html
Versys 300 is also a twin
Not a beginner, I’m the guy looking for a second bike.
Something that can be used quickly, that I don’t care about (no desire to farkle it), is affordable, do all and fun.
My primary is not for everyday or all year; too much chrome, and it’s a dedicated street cruiser so limited function (a Harley).
Had lots of bikes from sport to dirt and everything in between.
So for me second bike constraints are; 400cc and under for cheap insurance, good highway ergos as the shortest round trip is 250 miles of highway - so good seat and not to buzzy, affordable which means the cost of the bike is it (not the bike and 3-5g to make it what I need) and finally it has to be available.
At this point I haven’t found the perfect bike which ticks me off because I believe they all could make it…
The Honda 500; bumps me into a higher insurance class so no go, and it just seems exceedingly bland.
Honda Rally; A little to dirt focused but very appealing but I don’t want a dirt bike on the highway. Plus they are unobtainium here, a guy I know has been waiting a long time and has lost a season, still with no bike and no ETA.
The Royal Enfield; 11cc costs a lot of insurance on this ride…and on this bike it just tips the scales.
X300; also a twin, checks all the boxes but wow, that’s a lot of RPM for a long time…not sure how available it is either as I haven’t seen one on the floor in a long time. A 400cc version tuned for lower rpm/torque would be hammer on nail, but they don’t build it which is unfortunate as they already have the mill in a street bike.
KTM390; by the time you add all the farkles which it should have come with (wheels, pegs, a decent seat) you are now at the price point of far better bikes, albeit bike in the “only bike” class, not the “extra bike” class. An “R” version would be handy…
KLR650; a bike with a reputation built on farkles…plus higher insurance costs. Add the extras and you might as well get a T7 (same cost pretty much).
You missed the Dr650; but same issues as the KLR (been there, done that).
So maybe a KTM390…if it only had a better seat…(first impressions are a lot).
Good video, thanks.
I like the KTM 390 Thanks for watching
What are farkles ?
@@davidb9323 Farkle is a term used to describe aftermarket accessories; “F’ing Awesome, Real Kool, Likely Expensive”.
@@rupertsuzuki3376 Ah. Everything seems expensive in the world of ADV and GSA
@@richardconnolly595 for that distance I would totally go with the ktm
Mistake:
"Honda CB500X is the only twin cylinder engine" is simply not true. The Kawasaki Versys x300 has also a twin cylinder engine. Therefore also not true that the Versys 300x is very buzzy, just the opposite it is smooth, and only a little buzzy.
There is a pinned comment clarifying the mistake Has been up for a while
Imho you saved the best for last, cb500x 😊🥂 much respect to the klr of course but ya just glossed over the 500x meng
In my late 30s, never been on a motorcycle. Thinking about Versys-X 300 but someone told me maybe a dual sport like XT250 or KLX230 is a bit more beginner friendly? Any thoughts would be great.
175lb, 31in inseam, 90% highway 10% dirt, preferably to hold a passenger when skill level gets there but might upgrade by then (prefer not to)
Its hard to turn down a dual sport Especially if you want to off road
Versys, KTM 390, or Honda CBX 500 is best for your situation
Considering kawasaki make a ninja 400 , why don't they make a versys 400cc as well is beyond 🤔 my logic. It really needs to be updated. The 300cc is also a twin.... tho
I believe the Versys 400 is in the works but with supply chains everything is set back now
@wickedleeloopy I mentioned that in my kawasaki customer satisfaction survey. I've put 4500 miles on my 2022 X in 4 months. Also mentioned the lack of led lighting amongst other things. Disappointed that 2023 is still a 300cc
The perfect adventure bike is a dual sport under 400 pounds. You don't need a bigger tank if it gets good mpg. You do need a comfortable seat. You don't need different electronic modes, ABS, cruise control, traction control, etc. If you need these things then a better alternative is to learn how to ride correctly. You don't need a bike with huge horsepower to travel over 70mph. The current batch of "adventure bikes" are nothing more than street bikes with off road tires.
There are a lot of people that try riding the TAT on big bikes. Their thoughts are that you need the big bike weight, power and comfort for the ride home. That just isn't sound thinking. Are you riding the TAT for the adventure of it or are you riding for the way home as your primary reason for going. Buy the right bike for the task and no other reason.
I like my CRF 450RL as an adventure bike but I also like my Tiger It really depends on where you are going but 99% of the time I take my Honda
Thank you
Thank you sir
🇮🇳🙏💕😊
Thank you
In your opinion what bike would you recommend for a 5ft2in female who has never riden before she is maybe 110lbs with gear
I think the royal Enfield Himalayan is good If you want to do only city I would go with a Honda grom but the Himalayan is good for djort riders
I would start with a XT250 Yamaha or any other bike you can flat foot when stationary. Weight is not your friend when you are learning to ride.
Cb500x nothing but mostly positives
@@diz_guy47 aprilia
It's so sad that all those pre 2000 small bore dual sports are gone now, on the lower end of this list you may find a (now reliable) Chinese bike. Anyway your list is awesome ;)
Thank you
Nice list, but it would have been even better, had you mentioned the weight to..
Thanks for the input you are right
If you added KLR650 to the list why forgot its rival DR650? Also built like a tank and bullet proof but considerably lighter and better offroad. All the bikes listed, but CB500, are horrible on freeways anyway.
My adventure bike is a Huffy, I'm 2
I wish could afford a Huffy
Um klr 650 was introduced in 1987 not 97
The way you explained it makes me think adv bike is a super moto on drugs
Thanks god bless
Thank you too
Honda 300 Rally is 38.4 inches at the seat? Did they add 3 inches to the 2021 model? The KLR 650 is not a beginners bike. There is so much wrong information and mispronunciation in this video that it is useless.
That is what the specs said. I think the KLR 650 is a beginner bike Its slow and forgiving Way more forgiving than a 390 adventure Please tell us the proper list on how you see it
@@BornAGoon
Got your back in the KLR... I learned on one... Still have it.
Yes, the Rally is higher.. However, with the rider, it goes lower because it is a trampoline.. Rally 300 is the most PROPER adventure bike than can match the way it is advertised..
@@Ikkimoto18 It's not 38.4 inches as stated in the vid. The 2022 Rally is 35.4 inches. That's the type of thing I was complaining about in this vid. Flat out wrong information.
@@BornAGoon im with ya on the KLR. It is a great option as a beginner bike. Esp the S model with the low seat height.
What is in the picture
Tiger 800 2018
I like Honda cb 500 x👍
me too
👍🥰
V-Strom 650 xt?
The 650xt is a decent bike but I think I said in the video I mentioned a cap on prices and engine size The 650xt is 9300 USD
I had my bike more than 50 yr ago and i stop riding long time ago i like to again maybe🤣
Time to ride again
You really must not like Suzuki do you?
This is the second vid of yours where you not only didn't include the V-Strom (650 in this case), but to not even give a mention, and to include the CB500 and not the V-strom, please explain.
Exact opposite I love Suzukis Brought up racing them You should watch this video explains it all th-cam.com/video/krq7_R9liBU/w-d-xo.html
You missed Yamaha xt 250
Wish I could erase the notion that larger cc bikes are always better bikes, and that smaller cc bikes are "beginner" bikes.
Good video but the CRF Rally seat is a lot lower than you mentioned. Everything else seems to be on point. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you
Cfmoto would have been good in this line up
maybe
Why do western bikers always says beginners motorcycle that has a smaller displacement. So does a professional dirt bike rider who uses a 125cc or a little bigger displacement is still a beginner? Only Americans says beginner bikes. There’s no such thing. So if I ride a small displacement engine I’m still a beginner even I rode 30 years of my life? So should I always have to buy bigger displacement to be called a intermediate and a lot bigger as I go on ? That’s why there’s lesser younger Americans are riding bikes because the so called beginner.
TW200 is my Adv I'm skinny and pack minimal 😆😎 don't take highways and carry a rotopak
I had a honda fat cat once it was cool
"The Honda is the only twin-cylinder on this list..." Errr, what about the Versys?
That’s already been mentioned 100 times and I addressed that issue in the description box
@@BornAGoon apolgies mate, late to the party! No offence intended!
Cb500x !!!!
Used Honda Transalp for 2 grand or less
can you find one of those?
@@BornAGoon Yeah, I bought a 650V a week ago, in pretty damn good condition. With luggage racks, crash bars, usb power etc. 2200 Euros. There are still a couple of decent ones on sale here in Bulgaria around 2000-2500 Euros and a decent 1988 600V model for 1700.
The Transalp offers supreme comfort on pavement even 2up with my gf, great offroading capabilities for the type of bike, lightweight and powerful enough for stretches of highway. Happily cruises at 120kph, easily reaches 150-160 for overtaking or when you're in a real hurry.
@@TsvetanVR I used to live in Bulgaria I miss it
Correction, the KLR650 was introduced in 1987
Thank you
Ok the bike in your pic is NOT a dual sport.
The title of the video is " Adventure Motorcycles "
How can you say these are the best to own ,when you oviously havent ridden all of them . The Versys is 2 cyl btw.
And its barely buzzy.
The honda is not as tall as you say.
Ect . Look i liked the vid. But if your going to put out opinions get receipts. Just sayin
I mentioned I did not ride many of these bikes Its a general list not a shoot out If somebody want to provide me with all the bikes I will gladly compare them Other than that all I have is my convos with other riders and their general complaints and likes
The Versys is not 2 cycle.
The klr650 is just a fat pig. Sure, it has the ground clearance and wheel size of a good adventure bike, but it's just so top-heavy it's horrible on single track at anything but a snail's pace. Not to mention it has a couple inherit issues that Kawasaki have yet to address.
Dr650 with a windscreen, bigger tank, and a better seat. Now there's an adventure bike.
Your prices are really low compared to reality
Don’t put away your bike wet. Take care of it. No machine does well poorly maintained.
Hamalian underpowered and too heavy.