Guide to Adventure Motorcycling

Your Guide to Adventure Motorcycling

So you're thinking about getting into adventure motorcycle riding? You've come to the right place! In this post, we'll give you a crash course in all things ADV, from what kind of bike you'll need to what gear you should pack. By the time you're done reading, you'll be equipped and ready to hit the road (or trail) on your very own two-wheeled adventure.

What is an Adventure Motorcycle? 

An adventure motorcycle (often abbreviated as ADV) is, simply put, a motorcycle that's built for adventure. That usually means it's a big bike with long suspension travel and robust construction, meant to take on tough terrain and long-distance rides. Of course, there are plenty of variations within the ADV category, but that's the general idea.

Now that we know what an ADV bike is, let's talk about some of the key features that make them so well-suited for adventure riding. 

ADV Motorcycle Features 

The first thing you'll notice about some ADV bikes is that they're big. A bigger bike is generally more comfortable over longer distances, requires less maintenance and can carry more weight whilst maintaining stability. This is important because when you're out on an adventure ride, you'll often be carrying camping gear, extra clothes, and other items that can add up quickly in terms of weight. 

Another key feature of ADV bikes is long-suspension travel. This helps the bike absorb bumps and shocks from riding over rough terrain, keeping both the rider and the bike comfortable. In contrast, street bikes generally have much shorter suspension travel since they're not designed to leave the pavement. 

Finally, ADV bikes are typically equipped with larger fuel tanks than other types of motorcycles. This gives them an extended range between fill-ups, which is essential when you're far from civilisation and petrol stations are few and far between. 

What Kind of Bike Do I Need? 

Now that we've gone over some of the features that make a good ADV bike, let's talk about what kind of bike is right for you. If you're new to motorcycling altogether, we recommend starting with a smaller bike like a 250cc or 500cc dual sport. These bikes are lightweight and relatively easy to manoeuvre, but they still have all the essential features you need for an adventurous ride. 

If you're looking for something bigger, then many manufacturers offer bikes in the 650cc-1250cc range. These bikes offer increased power and capability compared to smaller models. Just be aware that they can be more challenging to handle due to the weight if you're not used to them. 

Packing for Your Adventure 

Of course, no adventure ride would be complete without the proper gear. In addition to packing items like food and water (essentially everything you would need for a day hike), there are some specific items you'll need for your motorcycle adventure: 

- A good helmet: An essential piece of safety gear, a good helmet will protect your head in case of an accident. When choosing a helmet, look for one that fits snugly but isn't too uncomfortable, has good ventilation (important for long rides in warm weather or going offroad), and offers decent visibility. 

- Protective clothing: We recommend wearing protective gear like boots, gloves, jackets, and pants when riding an ADV bike. The clothing is designed to offer additional protection in case of an accident and can help minimise injuries if you do take a spill. 

- Soft luggage: Unlike hard suitcases or panniers (saddlebags), soft luggage is much more forgiving if your bike falls over or makes contact with another object while riding—which does happen from time to time! We recommend investing in at least one set of soft panniers so you can carry everything you need on your ride without having to worry about damaging your belongings. 

We hope this guide has helped get you acquainted with the world of adventure motorcycling! Whether you're just starting or are looking to upgrade your current bike, there's an ADV model out there that's perfect for your needs. With the right bike and some essential gear, you'll be ready to hit the road (or trail) on your very next two-wheeled adventure. 

Happy riding!