Adventure touring bikes over 700 cm³: More power, more comfort, more freedom
Large adventure touring bikes have been among Europe’s most popular motorcycles for years. Models like the BMW R 1300 GS or the Honda Africa Twin stand for wanderlust, adventure, and limitless travel possibilities.
But a large adventure touring bike offers much more than just a powerful engine. Modern adventure touring motorcycles impress with high long-distance comfort, powerful suspensions, extensive electronics, and enough reserves for traveling with a passenger and lots of luggage.
Those who regularly ride several thousand kilometers per year or want to travel comfortably on long highway stretches will clearly benefit from the advantages of this motorcycle class.
At the same time, it is also true that more displacement almost always means more weight, higher purchase costs, and higher maintenance costs. Not every rider automatically needs a large adventure bike.
If you are just starting with adventure riding or looking for the lightest possible motorcycle, we recommend first checking our comparison of the best adventure touring bikes under 700 cm³.
Who is an adventure touring bike over 700 cm³ suitable for?
This motorcycle class is mainly aimed at:
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Frequent riders
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Long-distance riders
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World travelers
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Riders with a passenger
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Motorcycle travelers with a lot of luggage
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Experienced riders
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Off-road travelers with higher performance demands
What should you look for when buying?
Different criteria apply to large adventure bikes than to smaller adventure touring motorcycles.
Particularly important are:
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Weight
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Center of gravity
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Seat height
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Range
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Payload
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Comfort
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Wind protection
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Suspension
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Electronics
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Maintenance costs
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Accessory range
Especially for motorcycles with a curb weight over 230 kilograms, a thorough test ride is worthwhile.
1. BMW R 1300 GS
The BMW R 1300 GS currently sets the standard in the large adventure touring segment. Compared to its predecessor, it is lighter, more compact, and significantly more dynamic.
The legendary boxer engine delivers powerful torque even at low revs, making almost any riding situation effortless.
Thanks to the latest assistance systems, optional radar, electronic suspension, and excellent ergonomics, it is one of the most versatile motorcycles ever.
Advantages
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Exceptionally versatile
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Powerful boxer engine
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Excellent riding comfort
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State-of-the-art electronics
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Huge range of accessories
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High resale value
Disadvantages
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High purchase price
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Maintenance costs above average
Ideal for
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World travel
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Tours
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Alps
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Traveling with a passenger
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Frequent riders
Our conclusion
The R 1300 GS is one of the most complete motorcycles on the market and continues to set standards both on the road and on gravel.
2. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
The Africa Twin has enjoyed an excellent reputation among long-distance travelers for years.
It combines a powerful twin-cylinder engine with genuine off-road capability and high reliability.
Especially on long trips, it impresses with its balanced chassis and relaxed ergonomics.
The optional DCT dual-clutch transmission also makes it unique in this class.
Advantages
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excellent reliability
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very good off-road capabilities
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comfortable on long tours
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optional DCT
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robust technology
Disadvantages
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relatively high seat height
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somewhat less sporty than some competitors
Ideal for
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Long-distance travel
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Offroad
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World travel
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Traveling with luggage
Our conclusion
The Africa Twin has been one of the most popular adventure bikes worldwide for years and is an excellent choice, especially for long-distance travelers.
3. KTM 890 Adventure
The KTM 890 Adventure is aimed at riders seeking as much dynamism as possible.
Thanks to its low-placed fuel tank, it rides surprisingly light and offers enormous advantages, especially off-road.
The torquey twin-cylinder also provides a lot of riding fun on twisty roads.
Advantages
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light riding feel despite large machine
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excellent off-road capabilities
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sporty engine
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modern electronics package
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precise suspension
Disadvantages
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sporty tuning
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wind protection slightly less than classic tourers
Ideal for
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sporty riders
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Offroad
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Alps
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Gravel
Our conclusion
One of the most dynamic travel enduros ever.
4. BMW F 900 GS
With the new F 900 GS, BMW has made its mid-range significantly sportier.
It has become lighter, more off-road capable, and at the same time comfortable enough for longer trips.
Especially riders who find the R 1300 GS too large will find an excellent compromise here.
Advantages
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modern suspension
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powerful twin-cylinder
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lower weight
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very versatile
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High-quality workmanship
Disadvantages
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less wind protection than large GS models
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Accessories can be costly
Ideal for
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Tours
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Offroad
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Everyday use
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Travel
Our conclusion
One of the most interesting mid-range travel enduros.
5. Husqvarna Norden 901
Technically closely related to the KTM, the Norden 901 focuses more on comfort and travel.
It combines excellent off-road capabilities with comfortable ergonomics and distinctive design.
Especially on long stages, it feels a bit more relaxed than its Austrian sister.
Advantages
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comfortable suspension
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powerful engine
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good windshield
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high-quality equipment
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excellent off-road capabilities
Disadvantages
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Smaller dealer network
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higher purchase price
Ideal for
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Long-distance travel
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Gravel
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Tours
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Adventure travel
Our conclusion
The Norden 901 is one of the most exciting adventure bikes on the market, combining sportiness with high travel comfort.
6. Ducati DesertX
With the second generation of the DesertX, Ducati has fundamentally redesigned its adventure bike. The new 890cc V2 engine, a new monocoque frame, and a revised chassis provide more power, less weight, and even better off-road capabilities. Ducati has placed particular emphasis on everyday usability without losing the sporty character of the DesertX. (Ducati)
Advantages
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extremely powerful engine
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high-quality suspension
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excellent off-road capabilities
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modern electronics
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unique design
Disadvantages
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high purchase price
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rather sporty seating position
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accessories also costly
Ideal for
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demanding off-road tours
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sporty riders
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Alps
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Long-distance travel
Our conclusion
The DesertX is one of the sportiest adventure bikes out there. Those who frequently ride off-road and appreciate modern technology will find one of the most fascinating motorcycles in its class here.
7. Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
With the V-Strom 800DE, Suzuki has hit a real bullseye. The new 776cc parallel twin impresses with strong torque, smooth running, and very good reliability. Thanks to the 21-inch front wheel, long suspension travel, and modern electronics, the 800DE is now one of the most balanced mid-range adventure bikes. (Suzuki Bikes)
Advantages
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excellent value for money
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refined engine
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very good suspension
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comfortable for travel
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convincing on gravel
Disadvantages
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windshield only partially adjustable
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less prestige than some premium manufacturers
Ideal for
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Travel
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Everyday use
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Gravel
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Tours with luggage
Our conclusion
The V-Strom 800DE is currently one of the most sensible purchase recommendations on the market. It does almost everything very well while remaining attractively priced.
8. Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
The Tiger 900 Rally Pro combines British three-cylinder character with high travel comfort and impressive off-road capability. The high-quality Showa suspension, extensive features, and refined engine make it an excellent long-distance machine. (Motorradtest)
Advantages
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outstanding three-cylinder engine
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excellent comfort
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High-quality workmanship
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extensive standard equipment
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pleasant ergonomics
Disadvantages
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higher price
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less sporty than KTM or Ducati
Ideal for
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Long-distance travel
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Tours
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Alps
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Traveling as a pair
Our conclusion
The Tiger 900 Rally Pro is one of the most comfortable adventure bikes in its class and is excellent for frequent riders.
9. Moto Guzzi Stelvio
With the new Stelvio, Moto Guzzi has impressively returned to the large adventure touring segment. The modern V2 engine, shaft drive, and typical Italian character clearly set it apart from the competition.
If you're looking for a motorcycle that isn't everywhere, you should definitely test ride the Stelvio.
Advantages
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low-maintenance shaft drive
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characterful V2
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high travel comfort
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High-quality workmanship
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Distinctive design
Disadvantages
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Smaller dealer network
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Slightly higher weight
Ideal for
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Long tours
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Travel
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Riders with a demand for comfort
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Lovers of Italian motorcycles
Our conclusion
The Stelvio is an excellent alternative to the established market leaders and impresses with character as well as high long-distance suitability.
10. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
With the Pan America, Harley-Davidson has surprised many motorcyclists. The powerful Revolution Max engine, the semi-active suspension, and the optional Adaptive Ride Height make it a serious competitor to BMW, KTM, and Ducati. Especially the automatic lowering when stationary makes handling the large machine easier for smaller riders. (Motorradtest)
Advantages
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Extremely powerful engine
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Extensive equipment
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Semi-active suspension
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High comfort
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Adaptive Ride Height available
Disadvantages
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Relatively high weight
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Short maintenance intervals
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Complex operation
Ideal for
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Long trips
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Road
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Tours with a passenger
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Riders looking for something special
Our conclusion
The Pan America has long evolved from an outsider to a serious alternative in the adventure segment and impresses especially on long road trips.
Comparison of the best adventure bikes over 700 cm³
|
Motorcycle |
Road |
Offroad |
Travel |
Comfort |
Price-performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
BMW R1300GS |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Honda Africa Twin |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
KTM 890 Adventure |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
BMW F900GS |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Husqvarna Norden 901 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Ducati DesertX |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Suzuki V-Strom 800DE |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Moto Guzzi Stelvio |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Which adventure bike suits which rider?
For world travel
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BMW R1300GS
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Honda Africa Twin
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Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
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Moto Guzzi Stelvio
For as much offroad as possible
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KTM 890 Adventure
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Ducati DesertX
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Honda Africa Twin
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Husqvarna Norden 901
For long highway stretches
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BMW R1300GS
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Moto Guzzi Stelvio
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Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
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Harley-Davidson Pan America
For the best price-performance ratio
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Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
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Honda Africa Twin
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BMW F900GS
Which accessories are worthwhile for a large adventure bike?
A powerful adventure bike only unfolds its full potential with the right equipment. Those who are on the road for several days or even weeks benefit from high-quality accessories that significantly improve comfort, safety, and storage space.
Luggage systems
Depending on the travel destination and riding style, different luggage solutions come into question:
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Aluminum cases for maximum durability
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Soft luggage for offroad trips
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Waterproof tail bags
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Tank bags for quick access
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Additional bags for tools and small items
Especially on long-distance trips, the luggage system should be sturdy, waterproof, and as lightweight as possible.
Protection for motorcycle and rider
Those who regularly ride on gravel or unpaved roads should consider sensible protective components.
Recommended are, among others:
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Engine guards
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Skid plate
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Hand guards
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Radiator grille
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Headlight protection
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Crash pads
Even a small tip-over while stationary can cause expensive damage.
High-quality motorcycle clothing
Comfort plays a crucial role on long trips.
High-quality adventure clothing offers:
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Effective weather protection
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Good ventilation
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CE-certified protectors
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High wearing comfort
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Sufficient pockets
Especially in changing weather conditions, high-quality equipment quickly pays off.
Navigation
Whether smartphone or classic motorcycle GPS – reliable navigation is essential on almost every trip today.
Important are:
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Stable mounting
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Good readability
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Power supply
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Usability with gloves
Heated clothing
Many motorcyclists underestimate the comfort of heated gloves or jackets.
Even temperatures below 10 °C can significantly affect concentration.
Heated gloves have now become standard equipment for many long-distance travelers, especially in the Alps or Scandinavia.
Which adventure touring motorcycle would we buy?
Of course, the right choice always depends on the personal area of use.
Still, there are some motorcycles that stand out in certain areas.
Best adventure touring motorcycle for world travel
🥇 BMW R1300GS
Maximum comfort, enormous range, huge accessory options, and a worldwide service network continue to make the GS a benchmark for long-distance travelers.
Best adventure touring motorcycle for off-road
🥇 KTM 890 Adventure
The low center of gravity, high-quality suspension, and low tank position provide exceptional off-road capabilities.
Best adventure touring motorcycle for two-up travel
🥇 BMW R1300GS
🥈 Moto Guzzi Stelvio
🥉 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
All three motorcycles offer excellent comfort, high load capacity, and sufficient power reserves.
Best value for money
🥇 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
Hardly any motorcycle currently offers so much quality, comfort, and versatility at this price.
Best alternative to the BMW GS
🥇 Honda Africa Twin
It combines high reliability with genuine off-road capability and excellent travel comfort.
Motorcycle with the most character
🥇 Moto Guzzi Stelvio
The V2 engine, shaft drive, and Italian design give the Stelvio a unique personality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which adventure touring motorcycle over 700 cc is the best?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The BMW R1300GS is considered one of the most versatile all-rounders. For those who want to ride more off-road, the Honda Africa Twin, KTM 890 Adventure, or Ducati DesertX offer excellent alternatives.
Which adventure touring motorcycle is suitable for world travel?
Some of the most popular motorcycles for long-distance travel include:
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BMW R1300GS
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Honda Africa Twin
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Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
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Triumph Tiger 900
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Moto Guzzi Stelvio
They impress with comfort, reliability, and long range.
Which large adventure touring motorcycle is the most off-road capable?
The KTM 890 Adventure, Ducati DesertX, and Honda Africa Twin are among the best offroad travel enduros in their class.
Which travel enduro is suitable for two people?
For trips with a passenger, especially recommended are:
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BMW R1300GS
-
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
-
Triumph Tiger 900
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Harley-Davidson Pan America
They offer high load capacity and excellent seating comfort.
Are large travel enduros suitable for beginners?
Basically yes, but beginners should not underestimate the higher weight.
Riders with little experience often ride more relaxed on a lighter travel enduro under 700 cc.
How much power does a travel enduro need?
For trips across Europe, 60 to 80 hp is usually more than enough.
Models with over 100 hp mainly offer more reserves when fully loaded or on fast highway stretches.
Which travel enduro offers the highest comfort?
The most comfortable motorcycles include:
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BMW R1300GS
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Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
-
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
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Honda Africa Twin
Which travel enduro is the most reliable?
Honda and Suzuki have enjoyed an excellent reputation for decades regarding reliability and low maintenance costs.
BMW, Triumph, and KTM have also continuously improved their models over the past years.
Is buying used worthwhile?
Yes.
Especially motorcycles like the BMW R1250GS, Honda Africa Twin, or Suzuki V-Strom often offer excellent value for money on the used market.
A complete maintenance history and well-maintained condition are more important than the lowest possible mileage.
Conclusion
Large travel enduros are among the most versatile motorcycles overall.
Whether it’s the daily commute, Alpine passes, gravel roads, or a world trip – modern adventure bikes master almost every challenge.
Those seeking maximum comfort, the latest technology, and ultimate versatility will still find a benchmark in the BMW R1300GS.
For riders with a stronger offroad focus, the Honda Africa Twin, KTM 890 Adventure, or Ducati DesertX are recommended.
The Suzuki V-Strom 800DE impresses with excellent value for money and is currently one of the most interesting motorcycles in its class.
Ultimately, it’s not the specs sheet but the personal riding experience that matters. That’s why we always recommend test riding several motorcycles, paying special attention to ergonomics, weight, seat height, and handling.
If you are just starting your adventure career or are deliberately looking for a lighter motorcycle, we also recommend our comparison:
👉 The best travel enduros under 700 cc (2026)
There you will find the best adventure bikes for beginners, A2 license holders, and anyone who values light weight and easy handling.
