7 Great Dual Sport Adventure Motorcycles for Every Rider

This guide includes:

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE: The Stylish and Capable Off-Road Classic
Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports: The Dakar-Inspired All-Terrain Machine
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure: The Luxurious and Powerful Globe-Trotter
Yamaha Super Tenere ES: The Feature-Packed Long-Haul Specialist
Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE: The Affordable Adventure Workhorse
KTM 790 Adventure R and Rally: The Lightweight Off-Road Thrill-Seeker
Kawasaki KLX300: The Budget-Friendly Dual-Sport Starter

Editor’s Note: This guide is updated as needed. It was first posted in 2020 and is now updated with new models, the latest specs, and more.

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

Approximate Price: $15,400 USD | $16,900 CAD
Engine: 1,200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin

The Stylish and Capable Off-Road Classic

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 their modern classic Scrambler 1200 XE. Introduced in 2018 as a 2019 model, the Scrambler 1200 XE is powered by a 1200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, now updated to meet Euro 5 emissions standards while still delivering 89 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed transmission and chain final drive remain unchanged.

The XE continues to feature long-travel Showa adjustable front forks that offer 9.8 inches of movement, followed by a pair of Ohlins shocks at the rear with another 9.8 inches of travel. With a seat height of 34.2 inches, the Scrambler 1200 XE weighs in at 456 lbs. before any gasoline is added to the 4.2-gallon fuel tank. Subtle updates to the ride-by-wire throttle and ABS system improve its already confident handling on- and off-road.

Unlike the 1956 Trophy with its cast iron drum brakes front and rear, the Scrambler 1200 XE features Brembo disc brakes at both ends, as well as ABS and a traction control system. The updated 5-inch TFT display now 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.

Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports

Approximate Price: $17,299 USD | 20,299 CAD
Engine: 1,084cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin

The Dakar-Inspired All-Terrain Machine

Spawned by the success of its Paris-Dakar Rally-winning NXR750, Honda introduced a production model ‘replica’ with the XRV650 of 1988. The machine went through a number of improvements but was eventually dropped from Honda’s range in 2003. However, the concept returned to the fold in 2016 when Honda introduced the CRF1000L to compete with machines such as BMW’s GS1200 and Triumph’s Tiger.

In 2020, the Africa Twin saw a significant overhaul. Honda had increased the size of its liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine from 998cc to 1084cc. That bumped horsepower from 94 to 101, and torque has increased by six percent, too. For 2024, Honda has further refined the engine’s electronics, ensuring smoother throttle response and enhanced power delivery, particularly at low RPMs. The frame was redesigned in 2020, and the entire package was slimmed up, and, as a consequence, it is also lighter.

2024 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports

On the Sports model, the front forks are inverted Showa with 9.1 inches of travel, while the rear mono shock is also a Showa item that gives 8.7 inches of movement. For 2024, Honda added Showa EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) as an option, allowing for semi-active suspension that adapts to varying terrain. The machine includes ABS, LED headlights, and cruise control and is also equipped with four riding modes – tour, urban, gravel, and a new off-road mode, together with two rider-programmable modes. The latest model now includes a larger 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with additional customization options for rider modes.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure

2024 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure

Approximate Price: $20,345 USD | $24,745 CAD
Engine: 1,254cc air/liquid-cooled flat-twin (Boxer) with BMW ShiftCam technology

The Luxurious and Powerful Globe-Trotter

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 the R 1250GS Adventure. While the R 1150GS became the R 1200GS, the latest iteration was launched in 2019, and displacement was increased by 84cc to 1254cc. The air/liquid-cooled flat twin engine is rated at 136 horsepower and 105 ft.-lbs. of torque, and the cylinder heads feature a technology BMW calls the ShiftCam system. Depending on throttle input, ShiftCam switches between two sets of cam lobes on the intake camshaft to refine power delivery, whatever the riding conditions. Of course, the BMW features a shaft final drive, meaning less time spent maintaining a chain.

2024 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure side view in studio — 2024 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure. Photo: BMW

For 2024, BMW refined the ShiftCam system, offering even smoother power delivery and better low-end torque, enhancing performance in technical terrain. Additionally, the engine now meets stricter Euro 5+ emissions standards without sacrificing performance. Wheels feature a more traditional-looking cross-spoke pattern, while BMW’s unique Telelever front suspension provides 8.3 inches of travel, and the Paralever rear a good 8.7 inches of movement. The suspension system has been updated with Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) Pro as standard, which actively adapts to changes in terrain and load conditions.

ABS is standard, and the machine features a hill start control that automatically engages the front brake on an incline of five degrees — this feature can be overridden if that feels like nanny mode. For 2024, the R 1250GS Adventure gains a new 10.25-inch TFT display with advanced connectivity features, including onboard navigation and over-the-air updates. More than a few accessories and packages are available for the R 1250GS, making the machine almost infinitely customizable. New optional add-ons include the “Rallye” package, which focuses on off-road enhancements like enduro footrests and improved protection bars.

Yamaha Super Tenere ES

Approximate Price: $16,299 USD | $17,999 CAD
Engine: 1,199cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin

Editor’s Note: The Yamaha Super Tenere ES has been discontinued for the 2025 model year, marking the end of its production run.

The Feature-Packed Long-Haul Specialist

Another machine that can trace its roots back to the Paris-Dakar Rally, the Super Tenere first saw the light of day in 1983 when Yamaha offered the XT600 Tenere adventure motorcycle. With a 600cc single-cylinder engine, the XT600 Tenere lasted through several design changes for many years. In 1989 Yamaha then added a twin-cylinder XT750 Super Tenere to the range and that eventually became, in 2010, the XTZ1200Z Super Tenere.

2024 SUPER TENERE ES with rider parked on leaves in the forest — 2024 Yamaha Super Tenere ES

The Super Tenere is propelled by a 1199cc liquid-cooled parallel twin cylinder engine complete with traction and cruise control. Yamaha has imbued the Super Tenere with what it calls its ‘D-Mode’ twin-setting throttle. The T-Mode is for a gentler form of touring, while the S-Mode livens things up for sportier riding. There’s 7.5 inches of travel at both ends of the Super Tenere and the suspension is electronically adjustable at the push of a button. Cleanliness is assured with the use of shaft final drive. Conveniently, both the windshield and seat height are adjustable, with the saddle able to move from a low of 33.3-inches to a high of 34.3-inches.

For 2024, Yamaha upgraded the Super Tenere ES with enhanced electronic suspension for precise adjustments, a third D-Mode throttle setting for off-road performance, and a linked braking system for better stopping power on uneven terrain. It also features a redesigned windshield for improved wind protection and a 7-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, navigation, and rider customization, making it even more versatile for adventure riders.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE

Approximate Price: $15,999 USD | $16,999 CAD
Engine: 1,037cc liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin

The Affordable Adventure Workhorse

Suzuki’s venerable V-Strom, in the 1,000cc size, was first sold in 2002. The newest generation is the 2020 V-Strom 1050 and it features a four-stroke, liquid-cooled 1,037cc double-overhead cam 90-degree V-twin engine. For 2023, Suzuki rebranded the model as the V-Strom 1050DE, introducing significant updates to enhance its off-road capability. Gasoline from the 5.3-gallon tank is delivered to the combustion chambers via fuel injection, and sparks are provided by electronic ignition. Technology on the V-Strom 1050 includes a six-axis IMU, providing cornering ABS and improved traction control systems with four selectable modes depending on riding conditions, from good, dry pavement to wet and cold roads.

Niceties include a USB accessory slot to the left of the LCD instrument display behind the adjustable windscreen. This USB port is ideal for powering/charging a range of devices. The 2023 model now features a larger 21-inch front wheel and spoke wheels specifically designed for rugged terrain. The rear swingarm, damped by a single shock, carries an 18-inch wheel, complementing its off-road focus. Inverted KYB front forks hold a redesigned front suspension system with additional travel to improve comfort and handling in uneven conditions. One of the available accessories is a lower seat that removes almost one inch from the 33.5-inch overall seat height. New for 2023, Suzuki has also introduced an upgraded TFT display and a more advanced ride-by-wire throttle system, providing smoother performance and better fuel efficiency.

KTM 790 Adventure R and Adventure R Rally

Approximate Price (Adventure R): $12,499 USD | $13,499 CAD
Engine: 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin

The Lightweight Off-Road Thrill-Seeker

Middleweight contender in the adventure touring market, KTM introduced its 790 Adventure and Adventure R models in 2019. These are light and lithe machines, and both are powered by KTM’s 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine feeding power through a six-speed transmission to the spoked 18-inch rear wheel via chain final drive. For 2024, KTM reintroduced the 790 Adventure R after a brief hiatus, featuring significant updates to its 799cc parallel-twin engine for improved power delivery, refinement, and reliability. The 21-inch front wheel is also laced with spokes. The difference between the two models comes down to the suspension; the Adventure features non-adjustable WP forks with 43mm tubes, while the R version wears the completely adjustable 48mm WP Xplor forks. At the rear of the Adventure, the WP Apex shock can be altered only by its spring preload. The 2024 R model retains its WP Xplor fully adjustable shock, further fine-tuned for optimal off-road performance.

The KTM frame is designed such that the engine is a stressed member, thus increasing rigidity and lowering overall weight. One aspect of the KTM Adventure that draws good reviews is the low centre of gravity, thanks to the position of the 5.3-gallon gas tank that essentially wraps around the frame and carries the bulk of its fuel lower on either side of the bike. Seat height on the standard Adventure is 33.5 inches, while the R measures in at 34.6 inches. For 2024, KTM has introduced an updated TFT display with improved readability in all lighting conditions, additional ride modes, and smartphone connectivity. These changes further elevate the 790 Adventure R’s reputation as a versatile and capable machine for both rugged trails and paved roads.

Kawasaki KLX300

Approximate Price: $5,899 USD | $6,499 CAD
Engine: 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder

The Budget-Friendly Dual-Sport Starter

Introduced in 2006, Kawasaki’s entry-level KLX250 allowed neophyte riders to ride on or off the road. However, in 2014, the carburetor-fed model was dropped from the range, only to return in 2018 with fuel injection. Powered by a 249cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine with liquid cooling and a six-speed gearbox, power is transferred to the 18-inch rear wheel via chain final drive. As of 2021, the KLX250 has been replaced by the KLX300, which features a more powerful 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, offering improved performance and responsiveness.

There’s plenty of suspension travel, with 10 inches in the front and 9 inches in the single-shock rear, while overall ground clearance is more than 11 inches. Stopping power is provided by Kawasaki disc brakes front and rear. The KLX300 retains much of the KLX250’s accessible design while adding updates, such as improved suspension tuning and slightly increased ground clearance, making it even more capable for light trails and gravel roads. Available in lime green or, for a few dollars extra, a camo-grey version, this small-capacity adventure model won’t win any races but is great for getting around town and then venturing a little further afield on light trails or gravel roads.

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