This guide is continuously updated for relevance, accuracy, and the most recent information.
Decades ago, a motorcycle was, for the most part, a street bike. If a rider wanted to venture off the beaten path, the only option was to fit tires with a more aggressive tread pattern to give increased grip. Of course, ground clearance would be an issue, but the basic machine had to fill the role. As motorcycles evolved, specialized machines were introduced for trials and scrambles (or motocross) competition. The next phase saw the rise of smaller-bore dual-purpose mounts made popular by early Japanese models such as the Yamaha DT-1 and Honda Elsinore.
In 1980, however, the first ‘adventure-touring’ style motorcycle hit the market when BMW introduced their R80G/S (for Gelände Strasse, or loosely translated, off-road/on-road). From that point forward, the adventure-touring market steadily grew to the point where, today, every major motorcycle manufacturer offers some variant of the concept. Here are seven dual-sport motorcycles to keep on your shortlist if you buy one today.
Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE
Why we like it: classic style meets real off-road capability
- Price: From approx. $15,995 USD | $17,795 CAD
- Engine: 1,200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
Perhaps an early originator of the ‘adventure touring’ concept, Triumph first introduced their 650cc TR6 Trophy in 1956. The machine offered slightly increased ground clearance and a mid-rise exhaust pipe and was designed to tackle rougher terrain. Triumph has captured the spirit of that original Trophy with its modern classic Scrambler 1200 XE. First introduced in 2018, the latest Scrambler 1200 lineup continues to evolve, with the XE remaining the more off-road-focused variant.
The 1200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin now meets Euro 5+ emissions standards while producing approximately 90 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed transmission and chain final drive remain standard. The throttle response and rider aids have been refined over the years, giving the Scrambler smoother low-speed control without dulling its character.
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The XE continues to feature long-travel Showa adjustable front forks offering 9.8 inches of movement, paired with fully adjustable Öhlins twin rear shocks delivering the same 9.8 inches of travel. With a seat height around 34 inches and a wet weight hovering just under 500 lbs., the Scrambler 1200 XE balances rugged stance with real-world usability. Fuel capacity remains 4.2 gallons.
Unlike the 1956 Trophy with its cast-iron drum brakes front and rear, the Scrambler 1200 XE features Brembo disc brakes at both ends, cornering ABS, traction control, multiple riding modes, and cruise control. The 5-inch TFT display supports Triumph’s My Triumph Connectivity System as standard, offering integrated navigation, music, and call functionality. Triumph maintains this motorcycle is just as happy on the street as it is in the dirt — and in this case, that claim still rings true.
Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports
Why we like it: Dakar DNA with long-distance comfort
- Price: From $17,799 USD | approx. $21,000+ CAD
- Engine: 1,084cc liquid-cooled Unicam parallel-twin
Spawned by the success of its Paris-Dakar Rally-winning NXR750, Honda introduced a production ‘replica’ with the XRV650 in 1988. After disappearing from the lineup in 2003, the concept returned in 2016. And today’s CRF1100L Africa Twin continues to refine that rally-bred formula.
Each Africa Twin model pairs Honda’s narrow 1,084cc Unicam parallel-twin engine with real-world comfort and available Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). Output remains strong at approximately 101 horsepower, delivered smoothly across the rev range thanks to throttle-by-wire and a six-axis IMU managing traction, wheelie control, engine braking, and selectable riding modes. Buyers can choose the standard Africa Twin with its 21-inch front wheel for deeper off-road capability, or opt for the Adventure Sports ES variant for a more road-focused setup.
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The Adventure Sports ES model features Showa Electronic Suspension and a 19-inch front wheel paired with a larger 6.6-gallon fuel tank for extended range. Six selectable ride modes (Tour, Urban, Gravel, Off-Road, plus two customizable settings) are controlled through a 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across the lineup.
While still fully capable when the pavement ends, the Adventure Sports trim leans slightly toward long-distance touring comfort, balancing rally heritage with everyday usability. It remains one of the most versatile adventure motorcycles in Honda’s lineup, and one of the segment’s enduring benchmarks.
BMW R 1300 GS Adventure
Why we like it: a refined classic reborn for modern adventure
- Price: From approx. $23,795 USD | approx. $28,000+ CAD
- Engine: 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled boxer twin with ShiftCam
Made popular by the television series Long Way Round, featuring the exploits of riders Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor mounted on a pair of R 1150GS Adventure motorcycles, BMW’s newest version is now the R 1300 GS Adventure. While the R 1150GS became the R 1200GS and later the R 1250GS, the latest iteration represents the most significant evolution yet, with displacement increased to 1,300cc and a thoroughly redesigned chassis.
The air/liquid-cooled flat twin engine is now rated at approximately 145 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. The cylinder heads retain BMW’s ShiftCam technology, which switches between two sets of cam lobes on the intake camshaft to refine power delivery depending on throttle input and riding conditions. Of course, the BMW continues to feature a shaft final drive, meaning less time spent maintaining a chain — an advantage for riders logging serious miles.
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Wheels continue in a traditional cross-spoke design suited for serious off-pavement travel, while BMW’s Telelever front suspension and EVO Paralever rear setup provide long travel and confident composure in varied terrain. Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) now replaces the earlier Dynamic ESA system, automatically adapting damping and load compensation to riding conditions.
ABS remains standard, along with multiple riding modes and hill start control that automatically engages the brake on an incline — a feature that can be overridden if that feels like nanny mode. A large TFT display anchors the cockpit, offering integrated navigation, connectivity, and over-the-air update capability. As always, BMW offers a wide range of factory options and packages, allowing riders to tailor the GS Adventure to suit anything from globe-trotting expeditions to daily commuting.
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Yamaha Super Tenere ES (Discontinued)
Why we like it: a proven long-haul workhorse with shaft drive
- Price (2024 final model year): From approx. $16,299 USD | $17,999 CAD
- Engine: 1,199cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
Another machine that can trace its roots back to the Paris-Dakar Rally, the Super Ténéré first saw the light of day in 1983 when Yamaha offered the XT600 Ténéré adventure motorcycle. With a 600cc single-cylinder engine, the XT600 lasted through several design changes before Yamaha introduced the twin-cylinder XT750 Super Ténéré in 1989. That lineage eventually led to the XTZ1200Z Super Ténéré, introduced in 2010.
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The Super Ténéré ES is powered by a 1,199cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin cylinder engine, complete with traction control and cruise control. Yamaha’s ‘D-Mode’ throttle offers selectable power delivery, while electronic suspension adjustment (ES) allows riders to tailor preload and damping at the push of a button. With 7.5 inches of suspension travel at both ends and a shaft final drive, the bike is engineered more for distance and durability than outright off-road aggression.
While Yamaha has phased the model out after 2024, the Super Ténéré remains a respected option in the used market. Its smooth engine, touring comfort, and relatively simple electronics make it appealing to riders who value reliability and long-distance capability over the latest tech trends.
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Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE
Why we like it: big-bore adventure capability without the premium price
- Price: From approx. $15,999 USD | $16,999 CAD
- Engine: 1,037cc liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin
Suzuki’s venerable V-Strom 1000 first arrived in 2002, building a reputation as a durable and affordable adventure platform. The modern V-Strom 1050DE continues that lineage, elevating the concept with more serious off-road credentials while retaining the dependable, torque-rich character of its 1,037cc V-twin engine.
The 1050DE pairs that proven V-twin with a rugged cast-aluminum twin-spar frame, an extended swingarm, and a reinforced subframe built to handle demanding terrain. A 21-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear spoked wheel setup — wrapped in Dunlop Adventure tires — signal its dirt intentions, while fully adjustable long-travel suspension and increased ground clearance allow it to venture confidently beyond pavement.
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Technology is delivered through Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), which includes traction control with a dedicated Gravel Mode, switchable rear ABS, cruise control, and a bi-directional quick-shift system. A bright 5-inch color TFT display keeps ride modes and system settings easily accessible. While the 1050DE leans more toward genuine off-road capability than earlier V-Strom variants, it remains comfortable and composed on the highway — making it one of the segment’s strongest value propositions.
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KTM 790 Adventure R and Adventure R Rally
Why we like it: lightweight agility with real off-road intent
- Price: From approx. $12,999 USD | $14,499 CAD
- Engine: 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
A middleweight contender in the adventure touring market, KTM introduced the 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R in 2019. After a brief hiatus, the 790 Adventure R has returned to the lineup, once again positioning itself as one of the most dirt-focused options in its class.
Powered by KTM’s 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, the 790 Adventure R feeds power through a six-speed transmission to a spoked 18-inch rear wheel via chain final drive. A 21-inch front wheel reinforces its off-road priorities. The engine has been refined for smoother throttle response and improved durability, while retaining the lively, responsive character KTM is known for.
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The frame uses the engine as a stressed member to increase rigidity while keeping overall weight low. One of the defining traits of the 790 Adventure R remains its low centre of gravity, thanks to the uniquely shaped fuel tank that wraps down alongside the engine. Fully adjustable WP Xplor suspension offers long travel for serious trail work, and modern electronics include ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, and a TFT display with smartphone connectivity.
Kawasaki KLX300
Why we like it: a simple, affordable gateway to real dual-sport riding
- Price: From approx. $5,899 USD | $6,999 CAD
- Engine: 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Introduced in 2006, Kawasaki’s entry-level KLX250 allowed new riders to explore both pavement and dirt with confidence. The carbureted model was dropped in 2014 before returning in 2018 with fuel injection. In 2021, the KLX250 was replaced by the KLX300, which features a larger 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine offering stronger low-end torque and improved responsiveness.
The 292cc engine feeds power through a six-speed transmission to the 18-inch rear wheel via chain final drive. With roughly 10 inches of suspension travel up front and nearly 9 inches at the rear, along with more than 11 inches of ground clearance, the KLX300 is more than capable of handling gravel roads, forest trails, and weekend backcountry detours.
Fuel injection ensures reliable cold starts and smooth throttle response, while disc brakes at both ends provide confident stopping power. Weighing just over 300 pounds ready to ride, the KLX300 won’t win any highway drag races — but that’s not its mission. It remains one of the most accessible and affordable ways to get into genuine dual-sport riding, equally comfortable commuting during the week and exploring off the beaten path on weekends.
