There is an individual type of rider with motorcycle fans that enjoy the thrill of off-road trips and on-road travelling. Dual sport touring motorcycles are the perfect option for those who want the best of both worlds. This blog will delve into the fascinating world of the best dual motorcycle, highlighting the top choices for 2023. A dual sport dirt bike that is legal to ride on public streets is a dual sport motorcycle. It’s ideal if you want to ride your bike on trails over the weekend and venture outside of the city, to the desert or the woods. Let’s look at some of the best dual sport motorcycles now on the market.
1. Honda CRF300L:
The dual sport bike line of Honda now includes the CRF300L and CRF300 Rally. The new 300 makes improvements, mostly in the engine, and follows the well-liked CRF250L and CRF250 Rally. The engine was increased from 250cc to 286cc. Although there is only a slight increase of 4 horsepower and a little bit more torque, it is still 20% more powerful and 5 kg lighter than the 250L. This is an essential advancement. Compared to comparable bikes, the bike is a little heavier, but it is made to last and has good amenities like switchable ABS. The Honda CRF300L is the reigning champion in the dual-sport motorcycle industry. Unfortunately, the suspension from the earlier CRF250L wasn’t upgraded, but spare parts manufacturers solved that. The CRF300L is still a soft bike even with additional power. It’s excellent for new riders who wish to explore off-road riding. It strikes a balance between power and efficiency. Due to its lightweight construction, this bike is simple to control on both difficult terrain and city streets. Riders that look for flexibility will find it to be the ideal option.
2. Yamaha WR250R:
A flexible dual sport bike that works for a variety of riders and riding styles is the Yamaha WR250R. Although not designed for racing, it works well for many different sorts of riding. The WR250R’s engine is entirely different from the more race-oriented WR250F, despite their shared name. Yamaha designed it this way to require less maintenance. Because of the engine’s smooth and consistent power, amateurs may easily operate it. It is designed more for highway riding than for off-road competition. Although it has plenty of power, it cannot accelerate as quickly as pure dirt bikes. The suspension design of the Yamaha WR250R is less than ideal, much like the Honda CRF. Many riders alter this initially to improve the bike’s off-road performance or to make it more comfortable for lengthy rides. Unfortunately, manufacturing of the WR250R ended in 2020 after it was released in 2008. This may be due to the low number of sales. Fortunately, if you’re searching for a decent value, you can still find excellent used models. Riders who live for the excitement of dirt trails are the perfect fit for this bike.
3. Kawasaki KLX250:
The Kawasaki KLX250 is designed to easily navigate trails. Its 249cc engine has enough power, and its agile handling makes negotiating bumpy terrain simple. The Kawasaki KLX250 is different from the dual sports made by Honda and Yamaha. The focus is mainly on street-legal off-road dirt biking. Not all sorts of riding can use it. It has low gears for slopes and bumps and is designed for dirt roads and trails. It is road-legal, but not for lengthy journeys. It’s okay that it’s not as quick as they claim. Although it isn’t as flexible as other dual sports, it excels at its intended purpose. Despite Kawasaki’s lack of significant improvements, the KLX is still powerful, suitable for off-road use, and reasonably priced. The KLX250 is a great option for your off-road adventures whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider.
4. Suzuki DR-Z400S:
The Suzuki DR-Z400S has long been a fan favourite in the dual-sport community. It is intended for severe off-road adventure thanks to its 398cc engine and sturdy frame. With its strong torque, the DR-Z400S allows you to easily navigate difficult paths and climb up hills. Old yet popular dual sport motorcycles include the Suzuki DR Z400S. Despite being more than 20 years old, people still enjoy it for short hikes and lengthy drives. Exploring the wild is popular in the UK as well as in other countries like America and Australia. This bike has strong support in the UK due to the numerous TRF members who like it. The DR Z400S is reasonably priced and trustworthy. Its water-cooled single-cylinder engine is strong since it doesn’t have to work hard to produce power. For casual riding, the brakes work fine, but not at high speeds. Although the suspension is good off-road, it might feel bumpy when driving, especially when carrying goods or a passenger. The Suzuki DR Z400S was out of production for a long time, but it will return in 2023, at least in the United States.
5. KTM 500 EXC-F:
A popular dual sport motorcycle with a long history is the KTM 500 EXC-F. The KTM 500 EXC-F is a powerhouse for people who desire pure force. This bike, which has a powerful 510cc engine, is a beast on and off the road. It’s modern technology and superior suspension system make it a top option for riders who need maximum performance. Because of the size and weight of its engine, people favor the KTM 500 EXC-F. It has an extremely small (114 kg) 510 cc engine. Due to this, it is simple to navigate in restricted areas. Surprisingly quiet and smooth power. The torque is powerful, so you don’t have to always be in the ideal gear. It has excellent handling and control, which is crucial for a trail bike with 510 cc. Although the suspension is a little soft, especially at higher speeds, you might prefer firmer springs if you intend to travel with a lot of luggage or a passenger. Although the KTM 500 EXC-F is not inexpensive, you are paying for KTM’s off-road expertise and the work they put into making it lightweight. This is important while traveling off-road.
6. Honda XR650L:
The Honda XR650L has proven to be a dependable dual-sport partner over time. Its powerful 644cc engine and tough structure ensure durability. The XR650L is ready for your daily commute as well as epic adventures. When it came to races and off-road activities, the Honda XR650L was the best dual sport motorcycle. However, more modern, newer machines have replaced them. The XR650L is now excellent for commuting, hiking, and outdoor activities. Everywhere, especially with modifications like knobbly tyres for more challenging off-road, it works. It hasn’t altered much over the years, but it’s still popular and sells well. Although the 650cc engine isn’t particularly quick, it offers sufficient power for a passenger or bag. It is comfortable and smooth at highway speeds, with little vibration. The XR650L is durable, reasonably priced, and adaptable. It has a 30-year history for a reason: it completes the task at hand, and that task is everything.
7. Kawasaki KLR650:
The Kawasaki KLR650 is the industry leader in sports touring. Long-distance travel is enjoyable due to its comfortable ergonomics and the 651cc engine’s sufficient power for highway cruising. For riders who wish to travel the wide road without losing off-road capabilities, this bike is the best option available. The Kawasaki KLR650 stands out for its bigger fuel tank and distinctive combination of Dual Sport and Adventure features. Long before the term “adventure bike” became fashionable, the KLR650 was a dependable travel and trail bike. Focusing on the original KLR650 rather than the more recent model that is unavailable in the UK, this bike has been around for 35 years. It is simple, dependable, comfortable on the road, and capable off-road like the Honda XR650L and Suzuki DR Z400S. Due to its weight, it behaves differently off-road and digs deeper into muck. But you’ll be able to control it and use its might to go quickly through difficult terrain. It shines in two areas: pricing (selling for under $5,000) and range (due to a 23-liter fuel tank). Because of its price and range, it outsold rivals like Suzuki’s DR Z400S.
Finally: Your Dual-Sport Adventure Is Here!
There is a great match for every sort of rider as we get to the end of our examination of the top dual-sport motorcycles of 2023. These bikes have plenty to offer, whether you’re inclined to lightweight versatility, off-road prowess, or riding comfort. Remember that your choices and riding style will decide on the best dual-sport motorcycle for you. Find the one that sparks your desire for adventure by taking the time to test-ride these competitors. So get ready, head out, and start your dual-sport journey!
