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If you’re on the hunt for the Best Adventure Bike in 2025, the market is brimming with options, offering an unprecedented variety. This abundance of choices, while exciting, can make the selection process challenging. To simplify your decision, we’ve curated a list of 9 of the most compelling adventure motorcycles for the upcoming year.
Once upon a time, adventure bikes were non-existent, and “adventure riding” was truly about venturing into uncharted territories. It was less about balanced on-road and off-road riding, and more about long-distance exploration.
Riders blazing through the Pacific Northwest on Africa Twin Adventure bikes.
However, the landscape shifted with the arrival of the BMW GS, Neil Peart’s “Ghost Rider”, and the romanticized notion of long journeys. The definition of an adventure motorcycle evolved, and manufacturers adapted to meet the growing customer demand for bikes capable of both pavement and off-road terrains.
Eric looking at Torres Del Paine while on and adventure bike tour in Patagonia.
The core spirit of adventure riding remains strong. For those seeking transformative motorcycle experiences, our range of international motorcycle trips offer authentic adventures.
Fortunately for ADV enthusiasts, the motorcycles designed for these tours have only improved. Below are the adventure bikes we are most eagerly anticipating in 2025, presented in no particular order.
1. Ducati Desert X
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 110 hp @ 9,250 rpm
- Torque: 68 lb-ft @6,500 rpm
- Wet weight: 492 lbs
- Suspension travel: 9″ front/ 8.7″ rear
- Base MSRP: $17,995
Ducati consistently carves its own path, and the Desert X is a prime example.
While other manufacturers competed in the parallel-twin segment, Ducati stayed true to its V-twin heritage, delivering an engine that adventure riders didn’t realize they were missing.
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The Ducati Desert X with the new Discovery trim, enhancing its adventure touring capabilities. Photo credit: Ducati.
For 2025, the Ducati Desert X sees minor updates, mainly the new “Discovery” trim. Given it’s only in its fourth year, substantial changes weren’t expected.
For hardcore off-road enthusiasts, the “Rally” edition is available at a $5,000 premium, but the standard model remains a top choice.
The Testastretta 11-degree engine provides ample, usable power and distinctive character. The fully adjustable KYB suspension offers a balanced and competent ride. The Desert X also maintains its position as one of the most visually appealing adventure bikes on the market.
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The Ducati DesertX Discovery edition adventure motorcycle navigating a wooded trail. Photo credit: Ducati.
Surprisingly, the Desert X boasts a maintenance schedule more akin to Japanese brands. This modern, water-cooled Testastretta engine extends valve service intervals to an impressive 18,600 miles, a significant improvement over older air-cooled Ducati engines.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Class-leading power with distinct character | – Fewer standard features compared to some rivals |
| – Surprisingly low maintenance for a Ducati | – Slightly heavier for a “middleweight” adventure bike |
| – Agile handling, feels like a large dirt bike | |
| – Striking and attractive design |
2. Honda XL750 Transalp
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 83 hp @ 9,500 rpm (US model)
- Torque: 55 lb-ft @ 7,250 rpm
- Weight: 459 lbs
- Suspension travel: 7.9″ front/ 7.5″ rear
- Base MSRP: $9,999
The Honda XL750 Transalp marks Honda’s strong return to the mid-size adventure bike category.
We’ve extensively tested the Transalp in our rider training program, confirming its status as a serious contender.
The engine is a standout feature, offering an excellent power-to-weight ratio.
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Despite weighing only about 30 lbs more than the Honda NX500, the Transalp delivers approximately 30 additional horsepower, resulting in a noticeably more dynamic ride.
The Transalp is also remarkably accessible for riders with shorter inseams.
Its manageable seat height, despite 8″ of ground clearance and suspension travel, allows riders with a 30″ inseam to nearly flat-foot the bike, a feat not easily achieved on other budget-friendly options like the Yamaha Tenere 700.
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The Honda XL750 Transalp tackling a forest trail, showcasing its off-road capability and rider-friendly design.
The Honda Transalp has also claimed the title of the most affordable middleweight adventure bike.
With a starting MSRP of just $9,999, the Transalp undercuts the Yamaha Tenere 700, becoming the only major middleweight adventure bike available for under $10,000.
Another highlight is the Transalp’s exceptional handling, both on paved roads and off-road trails.
Its light and agile feel has been compared to Honda’s smaller CRF300L Rally, an impressive comparison considering the significant size and weight difference between the two models.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Excellent on-pavement handling | – Capable, but not a hardcore off-roader |
| – Outstanding engine performance | – Less ground clearance than some competitors |
| – Exceptional value for money | |
| – Accessible seat height for shorter riders |
3. KTM 890 Adventure R
2025 ktm 890 adventure r
Quick Specs:
- Power: 105 hp @ 8,000rpm
- Torque: 74 lb-ft @ 6,500rpm
- Weight: 480 lbs
- Suspension travel: 9.4″ front/ 9.4″ rear
- Base MSRP: TBA
On the opposite end of the adventure bike spectrum, the 2025 KTM 890 Adventure R further enhances its off-road prowess, thanks to development input from Chris Birch, known for his “Say No To Slow” philosophy.
If ultimate off-road performance is your priority, the KTM 890 Adventure R is a prime contender.
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The KTM 890 Adventure R confidently crossing a water obstacle, demonstrating its superior off-road capabilities. Photo credit: Rudi Schedl.
The current KTM 890 Adventure R is highly acclaimed for its exceptional off-road readiness.
The long-travel WP suspension rivals the best in the industry, and the potent 105-horsepower engine is unleashed in KTM’s “rally mode” for aggressive off-road riding.
Interestingly, the Adventure R also performs admirably on pavement, making it a true adventure bike in the classic sense. It is equally adept at carving through twisty roads and tackling challenging singletrack trails.
The 2025 model remains largely unchanged from the 2024 version, but now includes KTM’s “connectivity unit” as standard. This 5-inch TFT display offers full smartphone integration.
We await KTM’s pricing announcement for the 2025 890 to assess the overall value proposition.
Eric riding the KTM adventure bike in the high desert of Oregon.
Eric riding the KTM Adventure R in the high desert landscape of Oregon, showcasing its off-road touring capability.
The 890 Adventure R’s outstanding WP suspension continues to be the benchmark in the adventure bike segment.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Top-tier off-road adventure bike | – Higher price point |
| – Thrilling 105 horsepower engine | – Some features like rally mode require unlocking |
| – Best-in-class suspension | – Lacks the simplicity of Japanese competitors |
| – New TFT dash with smartphone connectivity | – Can be expensive to add desired features |
4. Yamaha Tenere 700
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 73.4 hp @ 8,750 rpm
- Torque: 49.4 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
- Weight: 459 lbs
- Suspension travel: 8.3″ front/ 7.9″ rear
- Base MSRP: $10,999
The Yamaha Tenere 700, a favorite among adventure riders for its simplicity and capability, receives its first major update for 2025, making it one of the most anticipated adventure motorcycles.
At its core, it retains the beloved CP2 engine and middleweight adventure bike character, but Yamaha has incorporated significant upgrades.
The most notable addition is the ride-by-wire throttle, which enables a full suite of electronic rider aids for the first time on the Tenere 700. It now features multiple throttle maps, rider modes, and adjustable traction control and ABS settings.
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The 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 showcasing its updated design and adventure-ready stance.
These new electronic features are managed through a 6.3-inch full-color TFT display, controlled by a joystick on the left handlebar. The new dash also offers Bluetooth connectivity for calls, music, and on-screen navigation via Google Maps.
Beyond technology and aesthetics, the Tenere 700’s KYB suspension receives a significant upgrade. While travel remains the same, damping performance is improved, and preload adjustability is added to the front forks.
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The 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 in a dynamic riding scene, highlighting its enhanced suspension and handling.
Will these technological advancements compromise the Tenere 700’s renowned simplicity, or will they enhance the already robust engine and engineering?
We believe the latter is more likely, but a thorough evaluation is needed once we’ve spent considerable time riding the updated model.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Proven CP2 engine reliability | – Peak power output remains unchanged |
| – Now equipped with traction control, rider modes | – Slight weight increase compared to the 2024 model |
| – Improved intake and power delivery | |
| – Still competitively priced in its class |
5. Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 83 hp @ 8,500 rpm
- Torque: 57.5 lb-ft @ 6,800 rpm
- Weight: 507 lbs
- Suspension travel: 8.7″ front/ 8.7″ rear
- Base MSRP: $11,709
Suzuki entered the modern adventure bike arena with the V-Strom 800DE, a middleweight parallel twin, last year.
While the V-Strom 650’s future is uncertain beyond 2025, the new engine in the 800DE is lighter and more powerful, while retaining the V-twin feel thanks to its 270-degree crankshaft.
It includes modern features such as a large color display, multiple electronic rider modes (including a gravel mode), switchable ABS, and fully adjustable long-travel suspension.
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The Suzuki V-Strom 800DE adventure bike with a pillion rider, showcasing its touring and passenger capability. Photo credit: Suzuki.
Suzuki also offers a factory “Adventure” package for the V-Strom 800DE, including aluminum panniers, engine guards, and a skid plate, adding $1,450 to the price.
The V-Strom 800DE is a compelling option for those considering the Tenere 700 but desiring more power and modern conveniences like advanced rider aids and a quickshifter, in exchange for some of the T7’s off-road focus.
Though slightly heavier than its Japanese counterparts, the V-Strom 800DE offers considerable value as a well-rounded adventure package.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – New engine delivers impressive performance | – 17-inch rear wheel limits true off-road tire options |
| – Modern electronics at a competitive price | – Heavier compared to some in the middleweight class |
| – Available factory adventure kit enhances value | |
| – Comfortable and versatile for touring and trails |
6. Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 106.5 hp @ 9,500 rpm
- Torque: 66.4 lb-ft @ 6,850 rpm
- Weight: 503 lbs (wet)
- Suspension travel: 9.45″ front/ 9.05″ rear
- Base MSRP: $17,395
Our recent extended test of the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro confirmed its status as an incredibly enjoyable machine.
A middleweight adventure bike with over 100 horsepower and features exceeding some flagship models, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro is exceptionally well-equipped.
The Triumph’s unique selling point is its three-cylinder engine.
It delivers strong low-end torque for technical riding and high-revving excitement unmatched by parallel or V-twins.
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The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro being tested in its natural habitat, demonstrating its off-road agility and performance.
Whether you’re sliding through gravel corners or overtaking sportbikes on mountain roads, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro excels in both scenarios.
This versatility is largely due to its KYB suspension, which balances comfort for long rides with firmness for spirited riding.
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Rider enjoying twisty pavement sections on the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro, highlighting its on-road handling and rider engagement.
The Rally Pro’s extensive list of standard features is also noteworthy.
Lean-sensitive traction control and ABS, rider modes, heated grips and seats, cruise control, adjustable windshield and seat – all come standard.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Exciting inline-triple engine | – Not the most affordable middleweight |
| – Big bike comfort, fit, and finish | – Stock tires are more street-oriented |
| – Exceptionally well-tuned suspension | |
| – Truly capable both on and off-road | |
| – Loaded with standard features |
7. Aprilia Tuareg 660
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 80 hp @ 9,250
- Torque: 52 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
- Weight: 450 lbs
- Suspension travel: 9.4″ front, 9.4″ rear
- Base MSRP: $12,299
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 stands out as a unique and compelling adventure bike.
It utilizes the same high-performance parallel-twin engine as the Aprilia RS 660, a celebrated middleweight streetbike. This engine is essentially derived from the RSV4 Superbike, with two cylinders removed.
However, the Tuareg 660 is far from a repurposed street bike. It excels on the road, offering some of the best handling in the adventure bike category, while also proving highly capable off-road.
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The Aprilia Tuareg 660 in its element, navigating off-road terrain and demonstrating its long-travel suspension. Photo credit: Tuareg.
The Tuareg 660 matches the KTM 890 Adventure R in suspension travel, offering over 9 inches of plush suspension combined with a light weight and predictable chassis. This makes it suitable for everything from gravel roads to challenging rocky climbs.
It also features a premium electronics package, including switchable ABS, traction control, adjustable engine maps, and cruise control, making it a strong competitor in the adventure segment.
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The 2025 Aprilia Tuareg adventure motorcycle riding through a desert landscape, emphasizing its touring and off-road versatility. Photo credit: Tuareg.
The Tuareg 660 bridges the gap between premium features and all-terrain capability.
If you value the high-end features and off-road prowess of the KTM 890 Adventure R, but don’t require its extra horsepower, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 delivers a similar experience for approximately $3,500 less.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Premium components, fit, finish, and electronics | – Less powerful than the KTM 890 Adventure R |
| – Excellent on-road handling | – More expensive than the Yamaha Tenere 700 |
| – High-performance, long-travel suspension | |
| – Lightweight and agile |
8. BMW 1300 GS
2025 bmw 1300 gs
Quick Specs:
- Power: 145 hp @ 7,750 rpm
- Torque: 110 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
- Weight: 523 lbs
- Suspension travel: 7.5″ front/ 7.9″ rear
- Base MSRP: $18,895
For many adventure riders, owning a BMW GS is a milestone.
The GS has remained the most popular adventure bike for good reason, known for its torque, reliability, and distinctive Telelever front suspension.
The all-new BMW 1300 GS represents a significant redesign, arguably the first clean-sheet design in its history.
Gone is the steel trellis frame, asymmetrical styling, and asymmetrical engine. The new GS is lighter, more powerful, and more capable than ever before.
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The BMW R 1300 GS adventure bike conquering mountain roads, showcasing its touring and performance capabilities. Photo credit: BMW.
The increased power and reduced weight are significant improvements, but the most innovative feature is the electronic suspension.
This industry-first design includes electronically adjustable spring rates, allowing for real-time optimization of suspension performance.
As typical with the GS, a wide range of optional features are available, from radar-assisted cruise control to adaptive ride height. However, the base model BMW 1300 GS is surprisingly accessible for a flagship adventure bike.
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The BMW R 1300 GS adventure motorcycle navigating a desert environment, highlighting its long-distance comfort and adaptability. Photo credit: BMW.
Starting at $18,895, the base-model GS undercuts some middleweight adventure bikes while still delivering big bike power, comfort, and touring capability. While not inexpensive, it offers surprising value for a European-engineered adventure motorcycle.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Thrilling new engine performance | – Still a significant financial investment |
| – 26 pounds lighter than the previous GS | – Optional features can quickly inflate the price |
| – Industry-leading technology and electronics | |
| – Retains the quintessential BMW GS feel | |
| – Surprisingly affordable base price for its class |
9. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 39.5 hp @ 8,000 rpm
- Torque: 29.5 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm
- Weight: 432 lbs
- Suspension travel: 7.9″ front/ 7.9″ rear
- Base MSRP: $5,799
The original Royal Enfield Himalayan was an affordable adventure bike, but it was underpowered, heavy, and dated.
The new Himalayan 450 is a radical departure, improved in every aspect.
As Royal Enfield’s first liquid-cooled motorcycle, the Himalayan 450 features a genuinely engaging engine with higher revs, more torque, and increased power throughout the range.
It is now capable of highway speeds, and this is just the beginning of its improvements.
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The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 being tested off-road, demonstrating its improved suspension and handling capabilities.
In recent testing, the Himalayan 450’s new Showa suspension performed surprisingly well both on and off-road.
It no longer requires cautious riding over rough terrain, offering 8 inches of well-damped travel suitable for most conditions.
The Himalayan 450 is a significant success, backed by an impressive three-year warranty.
For under $6,000, it includes standard features like rider modes, turn-by-turn navigation, and traction control, making it an exceptional budget-friendly adventure bike.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Impressive, modern, and competitive | – Technology suite is basic |
| – Excellent suspension for its price point | – Still less powerful than multi-cylinder engines |
| – Unbeatable value, under $6,000 | – Non-adjustable suspension components |
| – Backed by a strong three-year warranty |
10. CFMoto Ibex 450 (450MT)
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Quick Specs:
- Power: 44 hp @ 8,500 rpm
- Torque: 30 lb-ft @ 6,250 rpm
- Weight: 386 lbs (dry)
- Suspension travel: 7.9″ front/ 7.9″ rear
- Base MSRP: $6,500
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for budget-friendly and small displacement adventure bikes. The Himalayan 450 and CFMoto’s new Ibex 450 (also known as 450MT) are leading this trend.
The Ibex 450 is designed as a full-sized yet lightweight adventure bike.
Its 449cc parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree firing order positions it as a lighter, more off-road focused alternative to bikes like the Tenere 700, rather than a typical dual-sport.
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The CFMoto Ibex 450 in action across sand dunes, highlighting its lightweight design and off-road focus. Photo credit: CF Moto.
While slightly more expensive than the Himalayan 450, the Ibex 450 offers upgrades such as adjustable KYB suspension front and rear, J.Juan brakes, and tubeless 21″/18″ wheels.
It also includes a 5-inch full-color TFT display and switchable Bosch traction control and ABS.
Combined with its off-road oriented design and a minimum two-year factory warranty (longer in some regions), the $6,500 Ibex 450 is highly appealing.
Its value proposition led us to include it in our rental fleet, and a comprehensive review will follow later this year.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Fun small-bore parallel twin engine | – “Made in China” perception for some buyers |
| – Full-sized yet lightweight design | – Suspension is on the stiffer side |
| – Excellent value backed by a solid warranty | – Slightly more expensive than the Himalayan 450 |
| – Well-equipped with features for its price |
Thank you for reading our overview of the best adventure bikes of 2025. We hope this guide assists you in finding the perfect adventure motorcycle for your needs.
→Read More: Adventure Motorcycle Helmets: Top Choices for Protection & Comfort
Adventure Bikes for Beginners: Entry-Level Models for Your First Adventure
