Adventure Motorcycling

My favorite hobby

Although you can have an epic adventure on anything between a moped and a 1200cc BMW behemoth and ride around the world or around the block, adventure motorcycling in the traditional sense is associated with two key components: adventure bikes and travel.

Thanks to the Long Way Round series, adventure motorcycling is mostly seen as a way to travel the world on two wheels, and it usually involves long-distance rides on machines capable of both on and off-road riding. In essence, adventure motorcycling is all about traveling to far-flung destinations and using a bike that can take on any roads you throw at them while comfortably carrying you and all your earthly possessions over long distances.

A traditional adventure rider usually looks more or less like this:


Adventure motorcycles are road bikes designed to be capable of some off-road riding. Because the primary use is on-road, they're typically larger capacity, comfortable machines with plenty of luggage space; with the right tires and right skills, adventure motorcycles can also be ridden off-road, but it'll most likely be wide gravel roads and hard-packed dirt trails rather than overly technical terrain because these bikes are heavy and cumbersome on single track or gnarly trails.

Traditional adventure motorcycles include makes and models such as Honda Africa Twin, BMW GS series, Yamaha Super Tenere, KTM Adventure, and the like. Usually around 900-1200 cc, adventure bikes feature luggage options and crash protection, and they'll comfortably carry the rider and the pillion over long distances with minimal maintenance.


Adventure motorcycling gear, much like the bikes, is all about all rounder function: protective and abrasion-resistant, adventure gear is usually four-season with a waterproof layer and zipper vents. It's designed to be comfortable, durable, and protective in all weather and temperatures.

Needless to say, adventure is what you make of it; plenty of riders go on epic journeys on a variety of bikes and gear set ups. A scooter with a milk crate for luggage is just as legit as a fully kitted out BMW GS, as long as you're having an adventure. As you progress as a rider and as a traveler, you'll find your own ideal motorcycle, luggage, and gear set up, and there is no right or wrong way to adventure.


πŸ“– Learn more on Wikipedia