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Honestly I think cheap, small adventure bikes are the best choice if you’re going to take it off road, because 1) it’s cheap if it breaks, 2) it’s not unwieldy on single track, and 3) you can wring it’s neck without worry… it’s probably not the best idea to peg the throttle on a KTM 1290 Adventure from a dig in the dirt
Bought x300, and I have driven 5000km in the last 2 months. Loving the bike, upgrading it with loads of stuff. High revving engine felt a bit strange at first, since this is the smallest cc bike I have ever owned. But does great here in Finland where maximum speed limit is 120km/h, and even the passes great if needed.
Good video! Small bikes can be more fun than big, heavy ones. If you can't make up your mind between the Versys 300 and the CB500X, I can only recommend the Honda. Okay, the CB weighs 45 pounds more, but these bikes are both not really heavy, a bit more weight may be good on the highway, and you won't be doing serious off-roading with any of these bikes anyways. The suspension travel is about the same, the Honda has only about 8 more horses, but the power delivery is very different. The CB has lots of torque in the low- and mid-range while you have to wring out the Versys, and the high revs may get on your nerves in the long run. The smaller engine even uses more gas than the 471cc Honda. I'd say spend $1,200 more and go for the Honda, or buy a one-year-old used one if you don't have the money. Someone here mentioned Itchy Boots, she rode the Himalayan first, then got herself a CB500X... ;)
Incredible the difference in price we have in Argentina. Here a versys 300 costs 12800 dollars, the gs 310 is about the same. The cb500x cost 17000!. But the Himalayan cost 5000 dollars, so in my case in which 110 km/h is enough for travelling, and the roads are in bad condition, it was an easy choice. I am waiting for the delivery of my Himalayan.
Its a great functional machine.So easy to maintain yourself.Mileage is great.First thing add a booster plug to richen its idle up so it wont stall.Check the valves and reset at the 500 km and 3000km and after that mine stay put. I might check every 6000km so easy its pathetic.
Honda CRF250L Rally - The Africa Single. It has as much hp as the Enfield. I don't like to do many miles on the interstate, but that's not much fun anyway.
Thank you and good video. Pleased that my motorcycle bought in August 2020 is the Kawasaki Versys X-300, the first bike on your list. I hadn't had a bike for 30 years. Though I still kept my license, I took a basic rider course, received a $200 voucher for accessories, and bought this bike after researching which one to eventually buy. I can't tell you how pleased I am with it. I have 1624 miles on it and have been riding Arizona state highways and county roads. I am only 5.4", so the seat height is perfect. I like the instrumentation and the good fuel capacity. Thanks, again, for the video.
Most of those bikes are not just good for beginners and should not be painted with that brush. I say these are the bikes the smart people buy...less expensive...less weight. More fun.
Less costly to maintain, easier to work on, parts are cheaper, gas mileage is lower, easier to pick up when they fall over... Here's a good video I just watched, explaining why less can be more: th-cam.com/video/adX56io-sr4/w-d-xo.html
Back when I was a youngster in California in the 1970's we rode bikes in the 350 - 500cc range. We rode all over the state and many miles of dirt. I rode a Yamaha 2 cycle RD350 on many miles od dirt road. In short, we were adventure riders long before that was even a thing. Well, not to pontificate, but we were right about small displacement bikes. I own nothing over 650ccs today.
First adventure bike for me was the CB500X. I am an experienced rider but appreciate a lighter motorcycle. Great bike that won't be outgrown too quickly for lack of power. Moved on last year to a V-Strom 650XT though. Much better at munching the miles comfortably and can carry luggage and a pillion more easily. After owning and riding the V-Strom for a year, I can see why it has the cult following of faithful "Strom Troopers". Probably the best all around motorcycle EVER made. It can do almost anything you'd want from a bike and that 645cc V-Twin engine has been around 20 years. Why fix what isn't broken? I love mine.
I think the best ever made all around motorcycle is the BMW 1200GS. At least in Germany it is by far the most sold motorcycle in years. And the VStrom isn't even in the Top 20. In the end it will always be a personal decision, which bike suits best to you (I don't like the GS).
@@youarewrongdevil1296 yeah but the price difference is massive! I think it’s not a good comparison. And the strom is known for reliability not so much the GS though.
You don't call small bike a beginner bike. Majority ride a smaller bike because it's so fuel efficient. 100+ mpg and can go 130-150 kmph at ease. Maintenance is 4-10 times cheaper than big bikes. For the same fuel consumption, it goes 2-3 times further. And the weight is manageable. Try righting up a fully loaded 300+ kg full ADV bike in a slippery mud holes. And the cost of is so affordable. They are built tough that no valve needed adjustment after 5 years and 125000 km as the power is still there. Carb bikes can go underwater with snookler aids !!!
@@alm4132 as a 650 strom owner i can tell you it is barely better offroad because of the 19" front wheel but it's a lot better as a sport trourer than off-road, says it on the bike "sport-adventure tourer"
My list was Kawasaki Versus 300x , The Himalayan, Honda CRF 250 Rally and the BMW G 310 gs. Two weeks ago I put a deposit on the BMW g310 gs , mainly because it has 3 years warranty and very little extra fees when purchasing new. And now come the kicker. BMW of Richfield in Minnesota is selling New 2019 g310 gs for $3995 ( check CycleTrader). $1800 discount from MSR price.
The Versys X300 is geared pretty good, pulls along at 80mph on the freeway with some passing power left on tap just as well as it chugs up the side of a hill. It's not the fastest bike in the world obviously but dollar for dollar I'd say it's probably the best entry-level adventure bike. I had the opportunity to ride one for a couple hours, I'm 6'4 270 lb and it had no problem pulling me down the interstate at 80 mph next to my buddy riding my DR650.
Great vid. I was really looking into a Himalayan, but the HP turned me away. A few things to add:) The KTM also comes with an auto blipper (insane on this level of bike), but requires a flash from the dealer. I don't think you can find a bike thats loaded like this for the price. The KTM also has fully adjustable front and rear suspension which none of the others do. If the BMW had more power that would be an amazing bike. That bike shifts so smooth and feels like a larger bike. Feels really stable at high speeds. Anyways enough blabbering :) Next year KTM will kill all these bikes with the new 490A! ha ha
Unfortunately the KTM is not a reliable bike .It is performance over reliability oriented.It is the company's moto and approach.Win all the races doesn't begin to mean its the best.Actually the most functional bike on this list is the Himalayan .It doesn't buzz you to death at 60 mph.It might only want to go no more than 65 but it wont buzz or vibrate until you get past 65. Every other small adv bike on this list is gonna buzz you. This really matters on the road.And the Himalayan does better in the dirt because of its low end .
KTM will never kill, it is simply not reliable. A Honda NC750x would be a better choice, but not really for off road. Suzuki V strom is the best one still.
My first bike is a CSC RX4 (adv bike). 5400 flat (no extra/hidden fees) + sales tax if applicable. 450cc, abs included ( switchable as an option) boxes included, engine guard ..dual front disc 300w stator 12v/USB plug included. Comes pre-wired with switched harnesses for extra stuff. usually cruise 80 on the highway. 300 mi range
My BIL got a CSC RX4 a few months ago and loves it. Price includes paniers too! Chinese bike sold out of Azusa, CA. I've not had a chance to ride, but swinging a leg over is comfy. Rated at 40.2 HP.
My vote goes to the V-Strom 650. And despite what Dork said, it can easily be the bike that you ride forever. It has plenty of power to do highway speeds all day and that 650 twin is the perfect power plant to chug along forest raods and 2-tracks. Protect that oil filter, though. If you want to run those forest roads and 2-tracks at 90mph, ride baby-headed single track or constant 100mph freeway runs, then yeah the V-Storm isn’t the bike for you. For everything else, it’s damned near perfect.
Heromotors(largest bike mfg) has 200 cc Xplus great bike. RE Himalayan starts without battery.Adv bike when in trouble is where no help is there so simple 2 fix bike a must.Dont need Hp on trails.
I went with the Royal Enfield Himalayan bc it had the most torque. I really liked the Versys-300x and the 310GS but they are really more road bikes, torque on the Versys is especially weak. Nothing wrong with that, just not what I was looking for. I'd have considered the CRF300L Rally but was not able to test ride one.
Hello, And how do you find Himalayan? I love the low end torque it offers, overall it has a serious tractor factor. But i will be able to have just one bike and sometimes i will have to travel on highways in europe. (130 kph or something around 80 mph?) Do you think, that himalayan would be okay there? Or should i take something with a little more horsepower?
@@jakubduda6944 100/110 is the speed you should travel in the Himalayan. You can get 120, or in some cases (depending on wind, weight, height, etc) up to 130, but not to be used all the time. That is what all the people says for the bike. I am waiting for the delivery of my new Himalayan, 110 is enough for me.
@@luispiovani9542 thank you for your opinion, 110 Is still fast enough to get around, but since i wrote this comment, i realised, that touring in speeds from 70-100 kph Is what i enjoy the most. Sure, it is a hell lot of fun to ride 140 or more on sports bike, but not for long rides. So, Himalayan for me, and Once i save up enough money, i will order big bore kit from Hitchcock from england and some other accesories, it will be a dreamy bike. Hope you will enjoy yours and i Hope that i will soon enjoy my, too
The Himilayan may only have 25 h. p. But it goes 60 -65 all day without the buzz of a high rpm engine.And it is extremely comfortable standing or setting all day.If you are satisfied with going 700 miles a day at 60 m.p.h. getting 64-72 m.p.g it's a sure bet.The bike is very capable off road in a relaxed torquey low rpm manner which keeps it from spinning out like many smaller 2 cylinder japanese bikes. The Himalayan just tractors right on by while everyone else is throwing mud and has to take a big run at things.No its not a hard core dirt bike but it is very capable at a pace that most people can handle in off road conditions.On road it is solid, planted yet responsive and rides more plush than the best of cruisers.Vibration through the tank crash bars does start after about 65 mph or 5000 rpm .But below that it is fine and smooth for a thumper with a balance shaft.I haven't experimented with rubber washers on the tank guard mounts yet but just like the bar end weights that are required on a single i am sure a solution can be found to settle it down.Bikes with the tank guards removed and a conventional headlight mount don't have the problem.
It´s worth to say that despite Himalayan's power, it has got an incredible torque of 32 Nm and its available at just 4500 rpm, the himalayan gets almost all its torque at very low rpms. If you need to go faster than 110 Km/h Himalayan its not for you.
Buy easy 2 fix bike wen on Adv, u r always away frm help n servi stations n mechanics.u shld be able 2 pull/push ur bike frm muck, ditch snow urself only Less electronics the better.
I know its a older vid, but i been trying to get into adventure riding (new to road). During my search for the right bike for me i heard the 500x had issues off road, because they used the engine as part of the frame.. and really wanted a g310gs but found the abs cannot be turned off... have you seen any issues with this?
I try and try to tell new riders ….. you do not want anything under a 390 if your gonna ride on the road any decent amount. I’ve made the mistake multiple times. Don’t think you know better than literally everyone saying this. Save up for something bigger.
Suzuki V Strom for long trips and 2 up. 50k on mine with no problems. Great for shorter riders. Works best on back roads and forest roads. Can carry a lot of gear. Very economical to own and insure. Bought a KTM 790 Adventure but the Wee Strom is staying also.
Everyone complain about the Versys X' sit being really hard, but i don't really suffer from mine and any way buying something to mend that is probably one of the cheapest upgrades you can buy for your motorcycle
I’ve been riding the BMW G310 GS for about 2.5 years. Mods: bar riser, bash plate, engine protection cage, Barkbusters, Continental TKC 80 tires. This motorcycle works fine for fire roads and OHV trails. Single track? Forget it. Not properly geared for that and too much of a pig.
I tested it. Buttery in traffic, but didn't seem like it had enough torque to get me out of trouble offroad. The alloy wheels put me off too. Beautiful bike, though.
Hello, there are four adventurer models. 1- Suzuki Adventure 250 cc 2019 2- KTM Adventure 250 cc year 2021 3- Kawasaki Versys 250cc 2019 4- Honda CBR 250 cc year 2021 All motorcycles are new and unused. Question: I want to have an adventure every week or every two weeks, on good asphalt roads and cold, rainy and snowy mountain dirt roads or hot desert roads, asphalt and even desert. Which model is really the best? With accessories such as: protective guard and three boxes. please guide me. Thanks
You absolutely nailed it IMO with this list--I know that there's the Svartpilen 401 (not sure I spelled it right), but really, the ones you listed are the major players. It is really important to dial in the kind of riding you wish to do but so much depends on the bikes you feel most comfortable on when you try them out. The KTM 390 Adventure certainly offers a LOT for the money, but on the other hand, if I am 20 miles deep into the mountains with not a soul around, getting back home is just as important as technical capability, so for my money--->Honda CB 500x. That being said, hard to make a wrong choice on this list--all are great bikes! Thanks, great review!
@@MrShad73 I have had mine since last April and I just passed 1100 miles on it. I like the bike and it is well balanced. In my view, better than the Yamaha XT250 I previously had. I wish it had little more power when riding on the freeway.
I think beginner is the wrong term honestly... there are advantages to smaller bikes mainly weight which is a big one off the road. My Tiger 800 weights 230kg with fuel, 230kg you have to lift if you drop it. That is ignoring luggage. With a heavy bike you are more likely to have to unload it in case of a drop... Sure it got 19l tank but it also needs about ~5l/100km so the range still ends up in the 350 ~ 400km range depending on your riding style. With luggage your are officially limited to 130kph. Are 95bhp really needed for that? Just saying e.g. the KTM in this video can do all that as well at only 172kg... I'm currently contemplating downgrading.
Great video! Just wanted to say that the Versys X also have a switchable ABS, just grub the clutch, get the engine to 7k rpm and hold it for a second or two and than let it go down to idol. Your ABS is now turned off. To turn it back on you need to turn off and on again the motorcycle. i don't remember if you should be in first or second gear but it's one of them... I've checked this trick on my Versys X a few times, worked every time
Thank you so much for this. Have been looking at bikes after being inspired by ItchyBoots' channel. Don't think the Himalayan is for me, and the KTM may be too off-road focused (love the way it looks though.) What do you think about the smaller Yamaha Tenere 700? Actually I just realized you are really focused mainly on smaller bikes for beginners with this video, and the Tenere would probably be more mid-weight and possibly more experienced riders? While I'm not a true beginner, I haven't ridden in about 35+ years, so I plan to take a refresher class when I finally decide on what's right for me.
way late but im relatively new rider myself and watch Noraly always. Definitely try out the Tenere 700. its a fantastic bike. took it for a spin and loved it!
The V-Strom 650, really? Might as well list the Ténéné 700. Lighter in weight and we all know that for a beginner lighter is better. The XT Adventure is 528 lbs (with empty panniers), heavier than a base model Africa Twin. Both the T7 and V-Strom have almost the same horsepower and torque. But the Ténéné with it's 21"/18" set up is easier to ride off road. In fact, the only problem with the Ténéré is that it is so good that it can give a beginner a false sense of skills. I think that a great bike to consider is the Honda CRF300L Rally. Not exactly an ADV bike, more of a dual sport, but nine the less a great bike for a beginner.
The best choice for me who's new to ADV bikes is.... the Tiger 850. Light, low seat height, very comfy 2-up, all of which inspire confidence. The best part is the triple engine that has stacks of grunt for touring and quick overtaking on the highway with a passenger and a full load of luggage. Used to tour with the wife on a 400cc single before. She complained her butt would go numb after 100km due to the vibration and I had to dump gears and bounce the tacho off the limiter to overtake.
I have found a 2001 d r z z model with 200 mi on it for sale for $2,900is there any reason I should not consider the 2001 over a newer model any changes in suspension or the like
I've heard in a few reviews that the clutch on the Versys is quite sudden; not smooth, very narrow zone. I would consider that bike if not for this. Is there any remedy for this? Oh, if I don't go with a pure street bike and can find a used Himalayan I'd probably go with it. Like with cycling, I love the forest and fire roads too.
I'm interested in the g310 gs, but I'm worried to get tired of it too fast, cause of the 310cc. Then I also like the kawasaki z650, but I'm afraid it will rip me to pieces, being a beginner rider with a2
@@smartacus88 honestly only in reliability from what I’ve heard. The Chinese bikes are good, but from factory they come with a lot of imperfections that make maintenance costs insane. Imo for the maintenance costs you could buy a more reliable bike. Just what I’ve heard from forums and such never actually seen anyone buy a Chinese bike where I live
I'd always go for a two-year old Japanese bike with low mileage for the same price of a new Chinese one. It's not only about the quality, it's political. Tibet, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the treatment of the Uighurs and the poor human rights situation. Not a penny from me.
All wonderful “smaller” Adv. bikes, just wondering about the weights 😳 not so far away from the big nakeds 🙄 Perfect in time, facts & to be curious for more to come, thx 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I would have loved to have the Honda CB500X but it's not available in Mexico, so probably I will get the Suzuki Vstrom 650 ABS instead. A little big for me but I think I can handle it.
For us, the shorter riders, we have the Himalayan. And it is capable off road too. Not like a dual sport, but those are very tall, specially if you want high clearance.
Great video glad to see real small adventure motorcycles for beginners other videos are like this 850 or this 950 is perfect for beginners and I hate that
What “Adventure Bike” requires the “fewest modifications”, (is there one!!??) I’m not interested in very technical trail riding. Dirt roads, highway miles.
I chose the Kawasaki x300, 60+ mpg 4.5 gal tank. Enough off road capability for this old man. 65 mph for hrs no problem. My top speed so far 102 mph with overnight bag, tent,food. Last years model, non abs, out the door tax included 5k. First upgrade was offroad type tire, huge improvement.
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I’ve been riding 40 yrs. Bought a KTM 390 and have no regrets. It’s more fun than my R1200GS.
Honestly I think cheap, small adventure bikes are the best choice if you’re going to take it off road, because 1) it’s cheap if it breaks, 2) it’s not unwieldy on single track, and 3) you can wring it’s neck without worry… it’s probably not the best idea to peg the throttle on a KTM 1290 Adventure from a dig in the dirt
Could you tour with it?
@@beejoutbush3322 Sure, you just have to pack lighter. I took too much crap with me on the GS.
@@beejoutbush3322 Jeez people go around the world on a bicycle, obviously you can tour with it.
Itchy boots went around half the world on a Himalayan.
I’ve been looking at them. I have a road glide and put 70000 miles on, but I like dirt. The 390 feels like enough bike?
Man, I'm 66 I recently traded in my 2017 crf250l for a new 2020 versys X300, love it perfect for me !
Bought x300, and I have driven 5000km in the last 2 months. Loving the bike, upgrading it with loads of stuff.
High revving engine felt a bit strange at first, since this is the smallest cc bike I have ever owned. But does great here in Finland where maximum speed limit is 120km/h, and even the passes great if needed.
Good video! Small bikes can be more fun than big, heavy ones.
If you can't make up your mind between the Versys 300 and the CB500X, I can only recommend the Honda. Okay, the CB weighs 45 pounds more, but these bikes are both not really heavy, a bit more weight may be good on the highway, and you won't be doing serious off-roading with any of these bikes anyways. The suspension travel is about the same, the Honda has only about 8 more horses, but the power delivery is very different. The CB has lots of torque in the low- and mid-range while you have to wring out the Versys, and the high revs may get on your nerves in the long run. The smaller engine even uses more gas than the 471cc Honda.
I'd say spend $1,200 more and go for the Honda, or buy a one-year-old used one if you don't have the money.
Someone here mentioned Itchy Boots, she rode the Himalayan first, then got herself a CB500X... ;)
Vstrom 650 seems out of place in this line up, surely vstrom 250 or crf250 rally would be better placed.
Incredible the difference in price we have in Argentina. Here a versys 300 costs 12800 dollars, the gs 310 is about the same. The cb500x cost 17000!. But the Himalayan cost 5000 dollars, so in my case in which 110 km/h is enough for travelling, and the roads are in bad condition, it was an easy choice. I am waiting for the delivery of my Himalayan.
Its a great functional machine.So easy to maintain yourself.Mileage is great.First thing add a booster plug to richen its idle up so it wont stall.Check the valves and reset at the 500 km and 3000km and after that mine stay put. I might check every 6000km so easy its pathetic.
Honda CRF250L Rally - The Africa Single. It has as much hp as the Enfield. I don't like to do many miles on the interstate, but that's not much fun anyway.
That was my number one pick in my best dual sports for new riders video
The 2021 CRF300L should be even better!
It is but the price is almost as high as a CB500X in Germany.
Thank you and good video. Pleased that my motorcycle bought in August 2020 is the Kawasaki Versys X-300, the first bike on your list. I hadn't had a bike for 30 years. Though I still kept my license, I took a basic rider course, received a $200 voucher for accessories, and bought this bike after researching which one to eventually buy. I can't tell you how pleased I am with it. I have 1624 miles on it and have been riding Arizona state highways and county roads. I am only 5.4", so the seat height is perfect. I like the instrumentation and the good fuel capacity. Thanks, again, for the video.
Thanks for the upload. It would be nice to always include reliability and service interval of the bikes in question. Cheers
Most of those bikes are not just good for beginners and should not be painted with that brush.
I say these are the bikes the smart people buy...less expensive...less weight.
More fun.
Less costly to maintain, easier to work on, parts are cheaper, gas mileage is lower, easier to pick up when they fall over...
Here's a good video I just watched, explaining why less can be more: th-cam.com/video/adX56io-sr4/w-d-xo.html
Back when I was a youngster in California in the 1970's we rode bikes in the 350 - 500cc range. We rode all over the state and many miles of dirt. I rode a Yamaha 2 cycle RD350 on many miles od dirt road. In short, we were adventure riders long before that was even a thing.
Well, not to pontificate, but we were right about small displacement bikes. I own nothing over 650ccs today.
First adventure bike for me was the CB500X. I am an experienced rider but appreciate a lighter motorcycle. Great bike that won't be outgrown too quickly for lack of power. Moved on last year to a V-Strom 650XT though. Much better at munching the miles comfortably and can carry luggage and a pillion more easily. After owning and riding the V-Strom for a year, I can see why it has the cult following of faithful "Strom Troopers". Probably the best all around motorcycle EVER made. It can do almost anything you'd want from a bike and that 645cc V-Twin engine has been around 20 years. Why fix what isn't broken? I love mine.
I think the best ever made all around motorcycle is the BMW 1200GS.
At least in Germany it is by far the most sold motorcycle in years. And the VStrom isn't even in the Top 20.
In the end it will always be a personal decision, which bike suits best to you (I don't like the GS).
@@youarewrongdevil1296 yeah but the price difference is massive! I think it’s not a good comparison.
And the strom is known for reliability not so much the GS though.
“If you come to a dork in the road, take it.” - Yogi Berra
Does BMW part cost an arm and a leg like their automobile counterpart?
Yes it does but it is a tad cheaper
Yeah, they only charge an arm OR a leg.
You don't call small bike a beginner bike. Majority ride a smaller bike because it's so fuel efficient. 100+ mpg and can go 130-150 kmph at ease.
Maintenance is 4-10 times cheaper than big bikes. For the same fuel consumption, it goes 2-3 times further. And the weight is manageable. Try righting up a fully loaded 300+ kg full ADV bike in a slippery mud holes. And the cost of is so affordable. They are built tough that no valve needed adjustment after 5 years and 125000 km as the power is still there. Carb bikes can go underwater with snookler aids !!!
In other parts of the world, sure. Not in North America ;)
You want a small adventure bike and you are new to riding? Don't get an adventure bike, get a dual sport.
Nice list. But I am wondering, why did you leave out the Versys 650, and included the VStrom. They seem pretty equivalent to me.
The Versys 650 is a sport tourer, the VStrom is an adventure bike.
@@alm4132 as a 650 strom owner i can tell you it is barely better offroad because of the 19" front wheel but it's a lot better as a sport trourer than off-road, says it on the bike "sport-adventure tourer"
My list was Kawasaki Versus 300x , The Himalayan, Honda CRF 250 Rally and the BMW G 310 gs. Two weeks ago I put a deposit on the BMW g310 gs , mainly because it has 3 years warranty and very little extra fees when purchasing new. And now come the kicker. BMW of Richfield in Minnesota is selling New 2019 g310 gs for $3995 ( check CycleTrader). $1800 discount from MSR price.
Let us know how it's holding up. I read several complaints by owners about the reliability.
The Versys X300 is geared pretty good, pulls along at 80mph on the freeway with some passing power left on tap just as well as it chugs up the side of a hill. It's not the fastest bike in the world obviously but dollar for dollar I'd say it's probably the best entry-level adventure bike. I had the opportunity to ride one for a couple hours, I'm 6'4 270 lb and it had no problem pulling me down the interstate at 80 mph next to my buddy riding my DR650.
Awesome. That's great to hear
Great vid. I was really looking into a Himalayan, but the HP turned me away. A few things to add:) The KTM also comes with an auto blipper (insane on this level of bike), but requires a flash from the dealer. I don't think you can find a bike thats loaded like this for the price. The KTM also has fully adjustable front and rear suspension which none of the others do. If the BMW had more power that would be an amazing bike. That bike shifts so smooth and feels like a larger bike. Feels really stable at high speeds. Anyways enough blabbering :) Next year KTM will kill all these bikes with the new 490A! ha ha
Always something better on the horizon!
I have driven ktm 390. Its just not good enough off road . Its better on roads but if you are going for off-road ktm 390 doesn't make any sense.
Unfortunately the KTM is not a reliable bike .It is performance over reliability oriented.It is the company's moto and approach.Win all the races doesn't begin to mean its the best.Actually the most functional bike on this list is the Himalayan .It doesn't buzz you to death at 60 mph.It might only want to go no more than 65 but it wont buzz or vibrate until you get past 65. Every other small adv bike on this list is gonna buzz you. This really matters on the road.And the Himalayan does better in the dirt because of its low end .
KTM will never kill, it is simply not reliable.
A Honda NC750x would be a better choice, but not really for off road.
Suzuki V strom is the best one still.
My first bike is a CSC RX4 (adv bike). 5400 flat (no extra/hidden fees) + sales tax if applicable. 450cc, abs included ( switchable as an option) boxes included, engine guard ..dual front disc 300w stator 12v/USB plug included. Comes pre-wired with switched harnesses for extra stuff. usually cruise 80 on the highway. 300 mi range
My BIL got a CSC RX4 a few months ago and loves it. Price includes paniers too! Chinese bike sold out of Azusa, CA. I've not had a chance to ride, but swinging a leg over is comfy. Rated at 40.2 HP.
I like the video. Very informative. Please remove the shadow from the fonts to make easier to read.
Agreed , impossible to read
My vote goes to the V-Strom 650. And despite what Dork said, it can easily be the bike that you ride forever. It has plenty of power to do highway speeds all day and that 650 twin is the perfect power plant to chug along forest raods and 2-tracks. Protect that oil filter, though. If you want to run those forest roads and 2-tracks at 90mph, ride baby-headed single track or constant 100mph freeway runs, then yeah the V-Storm isn’t the bike for you. For everything else, it’s damned near perfect.
Nobody needs more then 71 hp.
67k on my 2012 Dl 650. Absolutely love it!
How about Honda NC750X DCT ? Is there anyone out there would recommend it for a beginner?
Depends on how big/tall you are. It's 215 kg without the DCT.
Perfect beginner bike
Heromotors(largest bike mfg) has 200 cc Xplus great bike. RE Himalayan starts without battery.Adv bike when in trouble is where no help is there so simple 2 fix bike a must.Dont need Hp on trails.
Himalayan will for sure not start without battery, where did you get that idea?
No injection bike can start without electric.
I went with the Royal Enfield Himalayan bc it had the most torque. I really liked the Versys-300x and the 310GS but they are really more road bikes, torque on the Versys is especially weak. Nothing wrong with that, just not what I was looking for. I'd have considered the CRF300L Rally but was not able to test ride one.
Hello, And how do you find Himalayan? I love the low end torque it offers, overall it has a serious tractor factor. But i will be able to have just one bike and sometimes i will have to travel on highways in europe. (130 kph or something around 80 mph?) Do you think, that himalayan would be okay there? Or should i take something with a little more horsepower?
@@jakubduda6944 100/110 is the speed you should travel in the Himalayan. You can get 120, or in some cases (depending on wind, weight, height, etc) up to 130, but not to be used all the time. That is what all the people says for the bike. I am waiting for the delivery of my new Himalayan, 110 is enough for me.
@@luispiovani9542 thank you for your opinion, 110 Is still fast enough to get around, but since i wrote this comment, i realised, that touring in speeds from 70-100 kph Is what i enjoy the most. Sure, it is a hell lot of fun to ride 140 or more on sports bike, but not for long rides. So, Himalayan for me, and Once i save up enough money, i will order big bore kit from Hitchcock from england and some other accesories, it will be a dreamy bike. Hope you will enjoy yours and i Hope that i will soon enjoy my, too
The Himilayan may only have 25 h. p. But it goes 60 -65 all day without the buzz of a high rpm engine.And it is extremely comfortable standing or setting all day.If you are satisfied with going 700 miles a day at 60 m.p.h. getting 64-72 m.p.g it's a sure bet.The bike is very capable off road in a relaxed torquey low rpm manner which keeps it from spinning out like many smaller 2 cylinder japanese bikes. The Himalayan just tractors right on by while everyone else is throwing mud and has to take a big run at things.No its not a hard core dirt bike but it is very capable at a pace that most people can handle in off road conditions.On road it is solid, planted yet responsive and rides more plush than the best of cruisers.Vibration through the tank crash bars does start after about 65 mph or 5000 rpm .But below that it is fine and smooth for a thumper with a balance shaft.I haven't experimented with rubber washers on the tank guard mounts yet but just like the bar end weights that are required on a single i am sure a solution can be found to settle it down.Bikes with the tank guards removed and a conventional headlight mount don't have the problem.
It´s worth to say that despite Himalayan's power, it has got an incredible torque of 32 Nm and its available at just 4500 rpm, the himalayan gets almost all its torque at very low rpms. If you need to go faster than 110 Km/h Himalayan its not for you.
Adam Sandler, is that you?
I’d recommend the Suzuki Tu250x or VavVan and put on adventure bike tires, but sadly these models aren’t made after 2019
Always had sports bikes. Had a look at adv bikes. I settled on the cb500x & very happy with my choice really enjoy riding mine
Buy easy 2 fix bike wen on Adv, u r always away frm help n servi stations n mechanics.u shld be able 2 pull/push ur bike frm muck, ditch snow urself only Less electronics the better.
Thanks for the inspiration to fuel a new adventure!
Always happy to help with that
Great video and list ... love the 80's videogame graphics and audio... look forward to more videos
Thanks for watching!
I have a 300X and it runs comfortably at 75 mph. It doesn't seem to have any problems cruising at 9000 rpm and still I'm getting 60 mpg.
You stretched to fit in the VStrom, but did not include the KLR650....interesting! For mine, KTM 390 Adventure first, daylight second!
Went from the XT 250 to the CRF 250L to the G310 gs, for riding around new york with all the school zone speeding cameras its the perfect bike
I love my Versys X. I don’t need anything bigger, it is just perfect for me. Great fuel mileage too.
Dork thanks for you informative videos. Can you please give the units both in American and universal measures? Many watch you out of the US.
I know its a older vid, but i been trying to get into adventure riding (new to road). During my search for the right bike for me i heard the 500x had issues off road, because they used the engine as part of the frame.. and really wanted a g310gs but found the abs cannot be turned off... have you seen any issues with this?
In Europe the KTM 390 has 44 Horsepower.
Only for bs3 varient. Now its bs6 nd power has reduced
What about an 88 Honda nx250
Just get a 390 or a 500x. You won't need any other bike. The bigger ADVs are overweight pigs off-road.
I try and try to tell new riders ….. you do not want anything under a 390 if your gonna ride on the road any decent amount. I’ve made the mistake multiple times. Don’t think you know better than literally everyone saying this. Save up for something bigger.
Great video! I am thinking in the Cb500x.
I might buy sym nht300 seems a cheap option but i need to get on it to see for my self the ktm 250 adventure had nice ergonomics
Suzuki V Strom for long trips and 2 up. 50k on mine with no problems. Great for shorter riders. Works best on back roads and forest roads. Can carry a lot of gear. Very economical to own and insure. Bought a KTM 790 Adventure but the Wee Strom is staying also.
How do you find the suspension mate? Ok for gravel roads?
The BMW 650 GS thumpers can be had fur $2-3k. Low seat height and 50 hp.
Great used option.
That's my bike
Sertao version is best if going off road.
Hello :) cool video but could you add the metric units for those who watch you outside the US and don't use your weird units ^^ thanks
Honda CB500X 👍🏻
Love the List nice job!
The Versys 300X interests me. I’d like to ride one. But spot on with this list. All good options with good price points.
Yeah it is an intriguing option for sure
Everyone complain about the Versys X' sit being really hard, but i don't really suffer from mine and any way buying something to mend that is probably one of the cheapest upgrades you can buy for your motorcycle
So you're saying I shouldn't have started with an R1250GSA, good to know :P
How did that work out for you? 😂
@@DorkintheRoad Broken rib here, torn MCL there.. so pretty good :P
I’ve been riding the BMW G310 GS for about 2.5 years. Mods: bar riser, bash plate, engine protection cage, Barkbusters, Continental TKC 80 tires. This motorcycle works fine for fire roads and OHV trails. Single track? Forget it. Not properly geared for that and too much of a pig.
I tested it. Buttery in traffic, but didn't seem like it had enough torque to get me out of trouble offroad. The alloy wheels put me off too. Beautiful bike, though.
Hello, there are four adventurer models.
1- Suzuki Adventure 250 cc 2019
2- KTM Adventure 250 cc year 2021
3- Kawasaki Versys 250cc 2019
4- Honda CBR 250 cc year 2021
All motorcycles are new and unused.
Question:
I want to have an adventure every week or every two weeks, on good asphalt roads and cold, rainy and snowy mountain dirt roads or hot desert roads, asphalt and even desert. Which model is really the best? With accessories such as: protective guard and three boxes.
please guide me.
Thanks
I would go with Honda crf 300 rally. It’s more of a dual sport which would suit your needs
Himalayan the only "adventure bike " in the video !👎
You absolutely nailed it IMO with this list--I know that there's the Svartpilen 401 (not sure I spelled it right), but really, the ones you listed are the major players. It is really important to dial in the kind of riding you wish to do but so much depends on the bikes you feel most comfortable on when you try them out. The KTM 390 Adventure certainly offers a LOT for the money, but on the other hand, if I am 20 miles deep into the mountains with not a soul around, getting back home is just as important as technical capability, so for my money--->Honda CB 500x. That being said, hard to make a wrong choice on this list--all are great bikes! Thanks, great review!
Thanks for watching!
The v strom is not in the same class as the others but a great bike non the less.
Thanks for the infomative video. What do you think about CSC RX3 - California Scooter Company RX 3 - 250cc small adventure bike?
I have had mine for 3 weeks now. Has tour fella hard cases and aux lights and knobbies. So far I'm loving it
@@MrShad73 I have had mine since last April and I just passed 1100 miles on it. I like the bike and it is well balanced. In my view, better than the Yamaha XT250 I previously had. I wish it had little more power when riding on the freeway.
I've had mine for a week, picked up a close out on the 2020 model with $400 off, great value. Really like the bike so far.
@@kevinramsay2932 I feel the same. Great value bike.
Since when vstrom 650 is small?
I recommend Honda X300 Adventure.
KTM adventure 390 has 43 HP of Power
CB500X has 47.
Really nice vid man. Also love the intro
Thank you!
Hi I love your intro video game.
I think beginner is the wrong term honestly... there are advantages to smaller bikes mainly weight which is a big one off the road.
My Tiger 800 weights 230kg with fuel, 230kg you have to lift if you drop it. That is ignoring luggage. With a heavy bike you are more likely to have to unload it in case of a drop...
Sure it got 19l tank but it also needs about ~5l/100km so the range still ends up in the 350 ~ 400km range depending on your riding style. With luggage your are officially limited to 130kph. Are 95bhp really needed for that?
Just saying e.g. the KTM in this video can do all that as well at only 172kg...
I'm currently contemplating downgrading.
Great video!
Just wanted to say that the Versys X also have a switchable ABS, just grub the clutch, get the engine to 7k rpm and hold it for a second or two and than let it go down to idol. Your ABS is now turned off. To turn it back on you need to turn off and on again the motorcycle. i don't remember if you should be in first or second gear but it's one of them...
I've checked this trick on my Versys X a few times, worked every time
Wtf, dude? Is it serious?
@@mariohenriquetomassi8272 yes. Try it if you don't believe me
What about the CRF 300 Rally?
I bought an Africa Twin. I'm 5'4" and I find it quite a handful at slow speeds. I'm thinking I should have bought something smaller.
Buy a big tricycle .
@Patrick O'Brien I did consider that but I bought a RE Himalayan.
There's no shame in getting one of these 300-400cc bikes.
Thank you so much for this. Have been looking at bikes after being inspired by ItchyBoots' channel. Don't think the Himalayan is for me, and the KTM may be too off-road focused (love the way it looks though.) What do you think about the smaller Yamaha Tenere 700? Actually I just realized you are really focused mainly on smaller bikes for beginners with this video, and the Tenere would probably be more mid-weight and possibly more experienced riders? While I'm not a true beginner, I haven't ridden in about 35+ years, so I plan to take a refresher class when I finally decide on what's right for me.
way late but im relatively new rider myself and watch Noraly always. Definitely try out the Tenere 700. its a fantastic bike. took it for a spin and loved it!
Its not a small adventure bikr
The V-Strom 650, really? Might as well list the Ténéné 700. Lighter in weight and we all know that for a beginner lighter is better. The XT Adventure is 528 lbs (with empty panniers), heavier than a base model Africa Twin. Both the T7 and V-Strom have almost the same horsepower and torque. But the Ténéné with it's 21"/18" set up is easier to ride off road. In fact, the only problem with the Ténéré is that it is so good that it can give a beginner a false sense of skills.
I think that a great bike to consider is the Honda CRF300L Rally. Not exactly an ADV bike, more of a dual sport, but nine the less a great bike for a beginner.
The best choice for me who's new to ADV bikes is.... the Tiger 850. Light, low seat height, very comfy 2-up, all of which inspire confidence. The best part is the triple engine that has stacks of grunt for touring and quick overtaking on the highway with a passenger and a full load of luggage.
Used to tour with the wife on a 400cc single before. She complained her butt would go numb after 100km due to the vibration and I had to dump gears and bounce the tacho off the limiter to overtake.
Honda all the way , sweet ride
Where is crf300 rally??
With the dual sports
I have found a 2001 d r z z model with 200 mi on it for sale for $2,900is there any reason I should not consider the 2001 over a newer model any changes in suspension or the like
What about sym nht 200?
I've heard in a few reviews that the clutch on the Versys is quite sudden; not smooth, very narrow zone. I would consider that bike if not for this. Is there any remedy for this? Oh, if I don't go with a pure street bike and can find a used Himalayan I'd probably go with it. Like with cycling, I love the forest and fire roads too.
I'm interested in the g310 gs, but I'm worried to get tired of it too fast, cause of the 310cc. Then I also like the kawasaki z650, but I'm afraid it will rip me to pieces, being a beginner rider with a2
Budget choice. CSC (Zongshen) RX3 or RX4. $3,995-$4,995.
Himalayan is better than csc
@@chandranshpandey1929 in what way explain how
@@smartacus88 honestly only in reliability from what I’ve heard. The Chinese bikes are good, but from factory they come with a lot of imperfections that make maintenance costs insane. Imo for the maintenance costs you could buy a more reliable bike. Just what I’ve heard from forums and such never actually seen anyone buy a Chinese bike where I live
I'd always go for a two-year old Japanese bike with low mileage for the same price of a new Chinese one. It's not only about the quality, it's political. Tibet, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the treatment of the Uighurs and the poor human rights situation. Not a penny from me.
All wonderful “smaller” Adv. bikes, just wondering about the weights 😳 not so far away from the big nakeds 🙄
Perfect in time, facts & to be curious for more to come, thx 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Love the beard... am in!😁👌👍💚
Thanks. I grew it myself!
every first bike is an adventure bike, dudes. just buy whatever. have fun with it. thank you.
I thought i mite love this 300x kawi. I swung my leg over one in the show room.the seat was harder than concret
I would have loved to have the Honda CB500X but it's not available in Mexico, so probably I will get the Suzuki Vstrom 650 ABS instead. A little big for me but I think I can handle it.
Honda NC750X
Please consider short riders too. Seat height options
Off road and low seat height don't go together, try lighter bikes they'll be easier to handle.
For us, the shorter riders, we have the Himalayan. And it is capable off road too. Not like a dual sport, but those are very tall, specially if you want high clearance.
Great video glad to see real small adventure motorcycles for beginners other videos are like this 850 or this 950 is perfect for beginners and I hate that
Love your videos
Thank you!
What is your choice of motorcycle for adventure in the 250 cc class?
Depends what you mean by adventure, but probably the CRF300L Rally.
@@DorkintheRoad For solo travel, on and off road.
Thank you for your time
Are we meeting this week friday?
Livestreams are going monthly. First Friday of every month
Which will be the ideal bike for 55 + year old bike enthusiast person
Thanks love your explanation for begginers riders
Great video Sir! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
What “Adventure Bike” requires the “fewest modifications”, (is there one!!??) I’m not interested in very technical trail riding. Dirt roads, highway miles.
Easy the best one on the list .Himalayan
I chose the Kawasaki x300, 60+ mpg 4.5 gal tank. Enough off road capability for this old man. 65 mph for hrs no problem. My top speed so far 102 mph with overnight bag, tent,food. Last years model, non abs, out the door tax included 5k. First upgrade was offroad type tire, huge improvement.
You’re telling me you did 102mph on a versys 300??
Tenere 700?
I am 5f 6inches. So for me Suzuki 250cc.
Many experienced riders use them bike's.👍
Epic video. This is information perfection.
Why Vstorm 650 is so expensive compared to CB 500x?? Price is unjustifiable.
Then buy the CB500X.
Here in Europe those 2 cost about the same.
No mention of the Vstrom 250?
Never heard of it? I don't think we got that one in America
Sinnis T380 would be a great option :-)