What are Adventure Bikes?
An adventure bike, also sometimes referred to as an ADV bike, is a touring motorcycle that is designed for use on both paved roads and dirt roads or trails. Features like off-road tires and long-travel suspension make adventure bikes similar to dirt bikes and other off-road motorcycles, but they are also built to withstand long-distance travel on paved roads. In short: a motorcycle for any adventure.
Why Choose an Adventure Bike for Your Next Ride
Choosing an adventure bike is all about versatility, comfort, and capability—whether you're tackling long highway stretches, winding backroads, or venturing off the beaten path.
Versatility
Adventure motorcycles are built to handle a wide variety of terrains—from smooth highways to dirt trails and everything in between. Their high ground clearance, rugged suspension, and durable frame make them capable on rough surfaces while still being comfortable on paved roads.
Off-road performance
Unlike standard touring or street bikes, adventure motorcycles come equipped for off-road riding. Long-travel suspension absorbs bumps and ruts, spoked wheels and dual-sport tires provide traction on dirt, sand, and gravel, and high ground clearance and crash protection prevent obstacles and rough terrain from damaging the bike.
Long-distance capabilities
Long rides demand comfort, and adventure bikes are designed for all-day endurance. Adventure touring motorcycles are built to handle off-road trails while still offering the comfort and features needed for long-distance rides, like upright seating positions, wind protection, large fuel tanks, and two-up capability.
Key Features to Look for in an Adventure Bike
There are many features to consider when buying adventure bikes, but the most important factors to keep in mind are engine size, suspension, and comfort.
Engine Power and Capacity
An adventure bike’s engine should provide the necessary power for both high-speed paved travel and to comfortably tackle off-road obstacles. Consider how much power you are comfortable with, and whether that will be enough engine capacity to keep up speed on a highway or motor up a steep hill climb.
Suspension and Off-Road Performance
Off-road riding comes with some bumps in the road, literally. Suspension, ground clearance, and wheel height all play a crucial role in the safety of you and your bike, particularly when riding on uneven terrain. High ground clearance and wheels allow you to ride over rocks and ruts, and long-travel suspension helps keep your tires planted on the ground and limits the amount that you and your luggage are jostled around.
Comfort and Storage Options
It’s likely that your adventures will take you away from home for extended periods of time. If you plan to ride long distances, comfort is key and luggage compatibility is a must. Most adventure bikes come standard with adjustable windscreens and fairings to keep you protected from the wind on long journeys. You also should be sure that the bike is equipped to hold whatever luggage you might need—whether that’s just a few personal items or camping gear for a week off the grid.
Top Adventure Bike Models for 2025
2025 BMW F 900 GS Adventure: A Great All-Rounder
BMW’s GS lineup has long been a benchmark in the adventure motorcycle world, and the new 2025 F 900 GS Adventure continues that legacy with an ideal blend of touring comfort, off-road capability, and cutting-edge technology.
At its core, an 895cc parallel-twin engine delivers a perfect balance of highway power and off-road torque, ensuring smooth, effortless cruising on long stretches of pavement while retaining the strength needed to conquer rugged trails and obstacles. Weighing in at just 482 lbs (unladen), it remains remarkably agile, making it well-suited for technical terrain and tight off-road maneuvering.
Engineered for versatility, the F 900 GS Adventure features an adjustable front suspension, allowing riders to fine-tune spring preload and damping to accommodate additional luggage or a passenger. This not only enhances handling and stability across varying conditions but also ensures a comfortable, controlled ride whether on asphalt or exploring remote backcountry trails.
2025 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro: Features and Benefits
The Tiger 900 Rally Pro stands as one of Triumph’s most capable adventure bikes, built for both rugged off-road exploration and refined on-road performance. Renowned for its high-performance engineering and rider-focused technology, the 2025 Tiger 900 Rally Pro continues this legacy.
Its Brembo braking system delivers exceptional stopping power with precise control, ensuring confidence in both technical off-road terrain and high-speed road riding. The Showa suspension effortlessly absorbs the toughest off-road conditions while maintaining superior handling and comfort on pavement.
Packed with rider-centric technology, the Rally Pro includes Triumph Shift Assist, heated seats and grips, and six selectable riding modes, including dedicated off-road settings. These features are easily accessed via a 7” TFT display with full Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing both convenience and control for any adventure.
Tips for Choosing the Right Adventure Bike for You
Choosing the right adventure motorcycle goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about finding the ideal combination of performance, comfort, and capability to suit your riding style and experience. Whether you're just beginning your research or ready to make a decision, our expert sales team has outlined key questions to help you find the perfect bike for your adventures.
How do you plan to use your adventure bike?
Consider why you want an adventure motorcycle. Do you dream of a cross-country moto trip to Alaska? Weekends spent exploring mountain trails here in Colorado? Working your way through each of the BDRs? Knowing how you plan to use your adventure bike will help you narrow down which model will best suit your needs.
If your goal is cross-country touring with the ability to ride off-road as needed, focus your attention on bikes with features that will maximize your comfort on the road. If you plan to spend as much time in the dirt as possible, look for an adventure motorcycle with the best off-road capabilities.
How much riding experience do you have?
Your skill level is a key factor in choosing the right adventure motorcycle. If you're a new rider or have limited off-road experience, starting with a lightweight or mid-weight adventure bike—or even a scrambler—can make off-pavement riding more manageable as you build confidence and technique. More experienced riders with ample seat time may feel comfortable handling a larger, more powerful adventure bike, as they have the skills to manage its increased weight and power output across varying terrain. Selecting a bike that matches your experience ensures a safer, more enjoyable ride both on and off the road.
Many new riders quickly outgrow their starter bikes as they gain confidence and experience in adventure riding. At Wild West Motorsports, we make upgrading easy with competitive trade-in options, allowing you to seamlessly move up to a more powerful, capable bike when you're ready to take your adventures to the next level.
What is your budget?
Your budget can be an important determining factor when buying an adventure bike. Like anything, adventure bikes can range drastically in price. The Triumph Scrambler 400 X, for example, costs less than $6,000. On the other hand, some BMW models start at nearly $30,000. The brand, features, and release year of each bike play a part in the cost.
If you don’t have a hefty budget but aren’t willing to compromise on features, you may want to consider purchasing a pre-owned or used adventure bike. If you choose to go this route, be sure to buy from a reputable dealer so you don’t run into potentially expensive mechanical issues down the road. We have a great selection of gently used adventure bikes for sale here.
Keep in mind, you may also want to add accessories like luggage to your new adventure bike, or purchase off-road specific gear. Set aside some of your total budget in the event that you choose to do so.
Shop Adventure Bikes at Wild West Motorsports
Our Expert Team
Our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the buying process, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Each member of our team is a passionate motorcycle enthusiast with years of industry experience, dedicated to helping you find the perfect adventure bike.
Our sales team is highly knowledgeable about BMW, Triumph, and other adventure motorcycle brands, and they’ll work closely with you to find the best model for your riding style, experience level, and budget. Our finance department partners with manufacturers and multiple lenders to secure the best available pricing and financing options, accommodating a range of credit situations.
Once you’ve chosen your ideal motorcycle, our parts specialists will help you customize and accessorize your bike to fit your specific needs. When it’s time for routine maintenance or repairs, our factory-trained technicians provide top-quality, manufacturer-recommended service to keep your bike performing at its best. From purchase to maintenance, we’re committed to delivering the best experience possible for every rider.
Ready to find your perfect adventure bike? Browse our selection at Wild West Motorsports or contact us today for expert advice!