Are you drawn to the thrilling world of off-road riding and considering purchasing an enduro dirt bike? Whether you’re dreaming of conquering your first enduro race, participating in a rally, or simply exploring challenging trails, the allure of enduro motorcycles is undeniable. If you’re searching for the best Enduro Dirt Bikes in 2022, you’ve come to the right place.
The selection process for an enduro bike can feel overwhelming. The market is brimming with excellent options, with virtually every major motorcycle brand offering a compelling machine. KTM has long reigned supreme in rally competitions, but Husqvarna bikes exude a distinctive style. Yamaha WR models are renowned for their trail prowess, while Honda CRF bikes offer versatility, sometimes blurring the lines with dual-sport capabilities. The choices are abundant, and the decision can be tough.
If you’re feeling lost amidst the options, rest assured, you’re not alone. Enduro riding enjoys immense popularity. Interestingly, the concept of enduro motorcycles can be traced back to 1913 at the International Six Day Trial in Carlisle, England. Over a century later, the fascination with these machines persists, and for good reason.
Understanding the Purpose of Enduro Dirt Bikes
Enduro dirt bikes are purpose-built off-road motorcycles designed for a wide spectrum of activities, from cross-country competitions and demanding trail riding to rally racing, off-road adventures, and general exploration. The term “enduro” itself is derived from “endurance,” highlighting the core characteristic these bikes and their riders must possess. Enduro bikes are engineered to endure long-distance events and withstand punishing conditions.
Dirt bike on the track
Alt text: Enduro dirt bike rider navigating a dirt track, showcasing the rugged terrain these motorcycles are designed for.
An enduro motorcycle is fundamentally a robust machine built to endure significant stress. Unlike many other motorcycle types, enduro bikes are specifically designed to tackle and navigate challenging terrains. Consequently, their ergonomics are optimized for riders to stand on the footpegs for extended periods, enhancing control and maneuverability in demanding situations. These bikes are characterized by their agility, lightweight construction, and aggressive, knobby tires that deliver exceptional traction on loose and uneven surfaces. Furthermore, enduro motorcycles are equipped with protective components surrounding critical areas like the engine, clutch, and handlebars, providing crucial crash protection. Minor spills are part of the enduro experience; these bikes are built to withstand them.
Street Legal vs. Trail-Focused Enduro Bikes
Enduro motorcycles face stringent regulations concerning street legality. To ride an enduro bike on public roads, registration is typically mandatory. However, the market now offers a growing selection of enduro bikes specifically manufactured to be street-legal right from the factory. These street-legal enduro motorcycles retain the core toughness and durability of their trail-only counterparts, offering versatility for riders who need to connect trails via paved roads.
While the fundamental purpose of enduro bikes remains consistent, variations exist to cater to different riding styles and preferences. Larger enduro bikes, typically in the 350-450cc range, offer broader versatility, serving as capable dirt bikes, dual-sport machines, rally contenders, and even platforms for light long-distance travel. Smaller displacement 250cc enduro bikes, on the other hand, excel in tight, technical terrain and racing scenarios, prioritizing agility and responsiveness. Additionally, specialized enduro motorcycles, such as the KTM 450 EXC, are meticulously engineered for the demanding world of rally racing, featuring specific components and configurations for optimal performance in these events.
Leading Enduro Motorcycle Manufacturers
Virtually every major motorcycle manufacturer now participates in the enduro segment, but certain brands have consistently stood out for their excellence in enduro bike production. KTM, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, and Husqvarna are widely recognized as leading manufacturers of top-tier enduro bikes. More recently, GasGas and Beta have emerged as compelling new contenders, further enriching the market with diverse options.
The sheer variety of enduro motorcycle types and brands can make finding the ideal bike a daunting task. If you’re unsure where to start your search for an enduro motorcycle, we’re here to guide you. This article highlights some of the best enduro motorcycles available in 2022. Our selection criteria prioritize factors such as power delivery, speed capabilities, fuel tank capacity, transmission type, starter system, and overall weight, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for prospective buyers.
Let’s delve into our top picks for the best enduro motorcycles of 2022:
Monimoto’s Top Enduro Dirt Bike Picks for 2022
1. KTM 300 EXC TPI
The KTM 300 EXC TPI stands out as a potent enduro dirt bike with exceptional speed potential. Equipped with a liquid cooling system for effective engine temperature management and a substantial 9-liter fuel tank, it’s built for extended rides. Adjustable NEKEN tapered handlebars contribute to rider comfort and control. The KTM 300 EXC earns its place among our top picks not only for its competitive price point but primarily for its impressive power output and agile handling.
Key Specs:
- Dry weight: 103.4kg / 228lb
- Power: 55hp
- Displacement: 293.2ccm
- Top speed: 120mph / 193km/h
- Starter: Electric
- Tank Capacity: 9L / 2.38gal
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Wheel size: 21’ front / 18’ rear
- Fuel system: Injection
- Cooling system: Liquid
- Seat height: 960mm / 37.8’’
- Engine type: Single cylinder, 2-stroke
- Fuel control: Single overhead cams (SOHC)
- Color: Orange/White/Gold
- Price: $10,199
2. Husqvarna TE 300i
Husqvarna TE 300i
Alt text: Close-up shot of a Husqvarna TE 300i enduro dirt bike, emphasizing its sleek white and blue design and off-road ready features.
The Husqvarna TE 300i is a premier 2-stroke enduro motorcycle. While featuring a lightweight carbon fiber subframe, the bike exhibits a slightly heavier overall weight compared to some competitors. This added weight contributes to enhanced stability and control, particularly beneficial in challenging terrain. The Husqvarna TE 300i enduro dirt bike incorporates a map select switch, offering two distinct standard riding modes, allowing riders to tailor engine performance to varying conditions. This model is included in our top selection due to its exceptional control and responsiveness, making it a favorite among experienced enduro riders.
Key Specs:
- Dry weight: 106.2kg / 234.1lb
- Power: 43.8hp
- Displacement: 293.2ccm
- Top speed: 71mph / 115km/h
- Starter: Electric with optional kick start
- Tank capacity: 8.5L / 2.25gal
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Wheel size: 21’’ front / 18’’ rear
- Fuel system: Injection
- Cooling system: Liquid
- Seat height: 950mm (37.4inches)
- Engine type: Single cylinder, two-stroke
- Fuel control: Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
- Color: White/Blue/Yellow
- Price: $10,299
3. Beta RR 300
The Beta RR 300 enduro motorcycle secures its place on our list of top enduro dirt bikes for 2022 partly due to its ergonomic design, which accommodates riders of shorter stature effectively. Featuring a 9.7L fuel tank, a lightweight frame, and a counterbalance for reduced vibrations, the Beta RR 300 is a strong contender in the enduro market. Furthermore, this enduro motorcycle is recognized for its raw, readily accessible power and minimalist design philosophy, appealing to riders who value directness and performance.
Key Specs:
- Dry weight: 103.4kg / 2281lb
- Power: 38.9hp
- Top speed: 95mph / 153km/h
- Starter: Electric with optional kick start
- Tank capacity: 9.7L / 2.55gal
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Wheel size: 21’’ front / 18’’ rear
- Fuel system: Injection
- Cooling system: Liquid
- Seat height: 36.6inches
- Engine type: Single-cylinder, 2-stroke
- Clutch: Wet multi-disc
- Color options: Red/Black/White
- Price: $9199
4. 2022 Honda CRF450RL
2021 Honda CRF450RL
Alt text: Honda CRF450RL enduro dirt bike parked on a trail, highlighting its red color scheme and street-legal components like mirrors and turn signals.
The Honda CRF450RL enduro motorcycle is derived from the renowned CRF450R motocross platform, inheriting its performance DNA. Engine modifications for the CRF450RL include a specialized crankshaft designed to increase inertia and enhance low-RPM torque delivery, crucial for technical enduro riding. Honda’s CRF 450RL three-piston ring engine design further enhances engine durability, a hallmark of Honda engineering. A widened frame accommodates a 6-speed transmission, providing a broader gear ratio spread. This 6-speed gearbox improves both low-speed maneuverability in challenging terrain and comfortable high-speed cruising. The enduro motorcycle features a 2-gallon titanium fuel tank, offering a 20% increase in capacity compared to the R model. The Honda CRF450RL earns its place on our list due to its exceptional durability and reputation for reliability, making it a dependable choice for demanding enduro riding.
Key Specs:
- Curb weight: 291lbs
- Valve Train: Unicam OHC, four-valve
- Displacement: 449.7cc
- Final Drive: #520 sealed chain; 13T/51T
- Starter: Full transistorized
- Tank capacity: 2.0 gal.
- Transmission: 6-speed wide ratio; manual
- Wheelbase: 58.9 inches
- Fuel system: Injection
- Cooling system: Liquid
- Seat height: 37.2 inches
- Engine type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke
- Clutch: Multiplate wet (6 springs)
- Color options: Red
- Price: $9,999
5. 2022 Yamaha WR450F
The Yamaha WR450F represents Yamaha’s latest iteration in the enduro category, released in 2021. It features a 5-speed wide-ratio transmission engineered for smoother gear changes and optimal power delivery across various terrains. While lighter than previous generations, this enduro Yamaha boasts increased power and improved handling characteristics. The liquid-cooled 499cc engine incorporates a compact cylinder head with a redesigned combustion chamber shape and steeper valve angles, contributing to enhanced performance. This enduro machine is equipped with an upgraded heavy-duty clutch, surpassing the specifications of the YZ450F model. The Yamaha WR450F is included in our top enduro motorcycle list due to its significantly enhanced handling and rider feel, coupled with its impressive wheelie capabilities, a testament to its playful and powerful nature.
Key Specs:
- Wet weight: 262lbs
- Valve Train: DOHC 4-stroke; 4 valves
- Displacement: 450cc
- Final Drive: O-ring chain
- Starter: Electric
- Tank capacity: 7.9L
- Transmission: Wide-ratio 5-speed
- Wheelbase: 58.3 inches
- Fuel system: Injection
- Cooling system: Liquid
- Seat height: 37.6 inches
- Engine type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke
- Clutch: Wet multiplate clutch
- Color options: Blue
- Price: $9,799
6. 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F
2021 KTM 350 EXC-F
Alt text: KTM 350 EXC-F enduro dirt bike in an off-road setting, showcasing its orange and white color scheme and off-road suspension.
The 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F is a high-performance four-stroke engine enduro motorcycle. It offers comparable power output to a 450 enduro bike while maintaining the agile handling characteristics often associated with 250cc machines, striking a desirable balance. The WP suspension system, a hallmark of previous KTM 350 models, has been further refined in the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F. The upgraded WP XPLOR forks now feature external preload adjusters, enabling quick and convenient suspension adjustments on the trail to adapt to changing terrain and rider preferences. This enduro motorcycle earns its position on our 2022 best enduro motorcycle list as it represents the pinnacle of the KTM enduro lineup, combining power, agility, and advanced suspension technology.
Key Specs:
- Curb weight: 237.6lbs
- Bore x Stroke: 88.0 mm x 57.5 mm
- Displacement: 349.7 cc
- Final Drive: 14:48
- Starter: Electric, Lithium Ion 12 V 2 Ah
- Tank capacity: 2.25 gal
- Transmission: 6 Gears, Wide Ratio
- Wheelbase: 58.3 inches
- Fuel system: Injection
- Induction: Keihin EFI, 42 mm
- Seat height: 37.8inches
- Engine type: Single-cylinder
- Clutch: Wet Multi-Disc DDS-Clutch, Brembo Hydraulics
- Color options: Orange
- Price: $11,199
Essential Maintenance Tips for Enduro Dirt Bike Owners
To maximize the lifespan and enjoyment of your enduro motorcycle, consistent motorcycle maintenance is paramount. With proactive care and a basic understanding of motorcycle mechanics, you can ensure your enduro dirt bike provides years of reliable service.
Here are key maintenance tips for every enduro motorcycle owner:
- Regular Washing and Inspection: After each ride, thoroughly wash your enduro dirt bike and meticulously inspect it before storing it. This practice removes mud and debris and allows for the early detection of potential issues such as loose bolts or damaged skid plates.
- Throttle and Clutch Cable Maintenance: Regularly clean and lubricate the throttle and clutch cables to maintain smooth and responsive control.
- Chain and Sprocket Care: Never operate your enduro motorcycle with a dry chain or sprockets. Clean and lubricate the chain and sprockets after every ride to minimize wear and ensure efficient power transfer.
- Engine Oil Changes: Adhere to a regular engine oil change schedule. Infrequent oil changes can lead to engine damage. More frequent oil changes contribute to extended engine life. When storing your dirt bike for extended periods, such as during winter, always drain the used oil to prevent potential corrosion.
- Carburetor Maintenance (if applicable): For carbureted models, regular cleaning and servicing of the carburetor are essential for optimal engine performance.
- Air Filter Maintenance: Enduro riding often involves dusty conditions, leading to clogged air filters. Regularly clean and oil the air filter to ensure proper engine airflow and prevent damage from dirt ingestion.
- Electrical System Checks: Periodically inspect the electrical system to ensure all components are functioning correctly. Maintain battery charge and replace the battery if it no longer holds a sufficient charge.
- Coolant Management: Regularly check and replace the engine coolant to maintain optimal engine temperature and prevent overheating, which can damage internal engine components.
Beyond routine maintenance, consider the security of your enduro motorcycle. Many enduro bikes are not street-legal and may lack registration, making them potentially attractive targets for theft. Always store your bike in a secure garage or parking area and utilize physical security measures like disc locks and chains. For enhanced security and peace of mind, consider installing a motorcycle GPS tracker to enable real-time tracking and recovery in the event of theft.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which brands manufacture the best enduro motorcycles?
A: While numerous manufacturers produce excellent enduro motorcycles, KTM is consistently ranked at the top, followed closely by Yamaha, Husqvarna, and Honda.
Q: What are the key differences between dual-sport and enduro motorcycles?
A: Enduro motorcycles are generally lighter, more agile, and optimized for high-speed off-road performance on challenging terrain. Dual-sport motorcycles are heavier, more versatile machines designed for both on-road and off-road use, prioritizing road legality and longer-distance comfort.
Q: What enduro motorcycle size is appropriate for me?
A: The ideal enduro motorcycle size depends on factors such as your experience level, weight, and height. Beginners are often advised to start with 250cc-350cc enduro bikes. While 450cc bikes offer significant power, they can be challenging for novices. However, some 450cc models, like the Honda CRF line, are known for their stability and user-friendliness. Ultimately, the best size is the one that feels most comfortable and controllable for your individual needs and riding style.
Q: Are enduro bikes known for their reliability?
A: Yes, enduro motorcycles are generally recognized for their reliability and durability. They are engineered to withstand demanding conditions and rough treatment. While specific brands may have slight variations in maintenance requirements, enduro bikes are designed to endure the rigors of off-road riding.
Choosing the Right Enduro Dirt Bike for You
Ultimately, the “best” enduro dirt bike is subjective and depends on your individual preferences and riding needs. Factors like seat height, intended use, and the complexity of the terrain you plan to tackle all play crucial roles in the decision-making process. Personal preferences and riding style are also important considerations. Regardless of the enduro motorcycle you choose, remember to prioritize regular maintenance and always prioritize safety during your rides. Enjoy the thrill of enduro riding!
