Mountain motorcycles, an extreme sport with a unique technical base

All motorcycle racers are divided into two types: sports racers who love to race along road tracks at a speed of 200 km per hour and extreme racers who love to ride along the mountain peaks of unexplored paths.

It cannot be said that sports racing is safer than extreme racing - in all sports you need to hold the motorcycle firmly in your hands and have good handling skills.

Let's talk about those riders who like to kick up dust after their ride and are not afraid of any obstacles on their way, about those who want to find the unknown. We'll talk about mountain peak lovers.

Loading Features

To increase comfort during loading and unloading, you should give preference to an ATV trailer with a tipper mechanism.
As a result, manipulations will take place much faster, since the rear part of the trailer will serve as a ladder. At the same time, it is very important that structures with a dumping mechanism are distinguished by increased strength of the rear side and fastening loops. The best solution now is galvanized iron paired with laminated plywood

Moreover, the thicker the metal layer, the more durable the structure will be.

When purchasing models without a dump truck, you should install special ladders. At the same time, this will require you to spend additional time and money, so this option will not be optimal.

Additionally, you can install a special winch, which will further speed up the process of loading and unloading the SUV. In this case, you can even do everything yourself.

Loading the ATV is quite easy. To begin with, open the tailgate, after which the structure is tilted for entry. Drive in at low speeds, smoothly, until the SUV is in a position suitable for transport. Then the tailgate is closed and the mechanism is fixed.

If a winch is installed, the cable is hooked to the bumper. The ATV is set to neutral gear, after which the device is pulled onto the trailer.

What types of trailers are there?

To summarize, there are currently two main modifications of such designs available. The first is specialized trailers for transporting ATVs, snowmobiles and other motor vehicles. The main difference here lies in the low sides, as well as the presence of special fastenings. As a result, a compact vehicle can be securely secured. Thus, this option is optimal for transporting small SUVs. It’s just that you can’t transport other cargo on it.

The second type is a classic trailer with high sides. This design can be used for anything, including ATVs and large cargo.

Strength

Whatever option you choose, it is important that the design is durable and reliable. Basically, active outdoor recreation involves off-road driving.

Due to the increased load on individual elements, it is important that the trailer has stiffening ribs and is well protected from rust. Nowadays galvanized models are the most popular. In this case, it is desirable that the protective coating be not only on the sides, but also on the frame. Such trailers are well resistant to corrosion, direct sunlight and mechanical damage, as a result of which they demonstrate the longest possible service life.

Advantages and disadvantages of Enduro

Most experienced motorcyclists agree that Enduro motorcycles are perfect as a first experience with motorcycle technology. And it’s hard to disagree with this statement - it’s almost impossible to jump on a powerful sports bike and feel comfortable right off the bat, without practical experience. Firstly, heavy units, such as cruisers or choppers, are quite difficult for a beginner to handle - due to the large mass and low maneuverability, there is a serious risk of injury during the learning process.

In turn, Enduro motorcycles have a number of serious advantages:

• Price
  . Obviously, such motorcycles are much cheaper than powerful sportbikes. Moreover, for your first experience you can choose not the most sophisticated enduro, which you won’t mind finishing off during the learning process. Add here economical fuel consumption and we get the ideal motorcycle for a beginner.
• Availability
  . If driving a classic bike requires a license and documents for the motorcycle itself, then with Enduro you can try your hand outside public roads - on dead rural roads, in a forest belt, in a wetland, etc.
• Light weight
  . For beginners, this factor is often decisive. Agree, having dropped a heavy sports motorcycle weighing about 400 kg, not every weightlifter will be able to put it back on its wheels.

As for Enduro, the average weight of these units is 70 - 90 kg, so it is much easier to handle them both while moving and in case of accidental falls.

• Reliability
  . Due to the absence of complex electronics in the Enduro design, motorcyclists have unlimited possibilities for repairing and servicing these units. Having a standard set of tools and a smartphone with Internet access at hand, even a beginner who is more or less familiar with the technical design of a motorcycle will be able to fix minor problems.
• Maintainability
  . As mentioned above, if you wish, you can make minor repairs to the Enduro on your own. Plus, spare parts and consumables for these motorcycles can always be easily purchased at a very competitive price in almost any specialized store, and if they are not available, they can be ordered.
• Easy to operate
  . Despite the powerful engine, Enduro motorcycles are characterized by linear acceleration, smooth brakes, and good traction. These units are stable even when moving at low speeds. The vertical landing allows for better control.
• Appearance
  . Obviously, in the first stages of learning to ride a motorcycle, falls are simply inevitable. The result is numerous scratches, dents, and chips on the body. The advantage of Enduro in this regard is that for these motorcycles any minor damage to the body is an absolute norm: after all, this is the default unit for off-road riding, where endurance and durability are much more important than external gloss and gloss.

In addition, the Enduro body elements are made of soft elastic plastic, which rarely breaks; the frame can always be repainted in a garage, and the stickers can be replaced.

• Almost limitless travel possibilities
  . The maximum that a standard bike can withstand is an asphalt surface of medium quality. Enduro in this regard are more universal units. You can try it on city streets, on the highway, on gravel roads, on forest roads, in fields, forests, on river banks - the geography of travel will be limited only by your imagination.
• Minimal equipment
  . This advantage, depending on your point of view, can also be a disadvantage. But let's face it: Enduro motorcycles are not designed for high-speed riding on trails or racing grounds. These tough horses are needed to overcome obstacles that are too difficult for other, more massive motorcycles.

Thus, the maximum speed and lack of wind protection will not allow you to ride too hard (this especially applies to beginners), which ultimately is an undeniable advantage of Enduro.

• Driving pleasure
  . Extreme sports enthusiasts who prefer outdoor activities will undoubtedly appreciate all the benefits of Enduro. The characteristics of these motorcycles are ideal for off-road riding, as well as for traveling on road surfaces of any quality.

But, like any, even the most sophisticated and expensive equipment, Enduro motorcycles have some disadvantages:

• High rise
  . The seat height in these motorcycles is 80 cm, higher than that of sportbikes and especially choppers. This design is due to the field of Enduro use, where high ground clearance and long-travel suspension are required. It turns out that a person of average height from a sitting position can hardly reach the ground with his foot. But you shouldn’t be too upset about this - you quickly get used to this design, and the high seating position no longer seems so uncomfortable.
• Small fuel tank volume
  . This characteristic is due to the need to reduce the overall weight of the motorcycle as much as possible. As a rule, tanks with a volume of up to 13 liters are installed on Enduro. With this amount of fuel you can travel about 200 km. Naturally, if you plan to just drive around the area, 10-13 liters of gasoline is quite enough. But if you have a long distance ahead, it is better to take care of the presence of gas stations along the route.
• Weak headlights
  . Of course, this does not apply to all models, but the fact remains that quite often it turns out that the headlights shine too dimly, which significantly reduces visibility when driving at night.

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Motorcycle customization

Setting up a motorcycle for freestyle motocross is a purely individual matter; each athlete must customize it, first of all, for himself. But some general points related to the engine, suspension, grips and comfort during the jump should still be taken into account.

Choosing a motorcycle

Motorcycles for freestyle motocross are used. And then the riders themselves modify the bikes to lighten their weight and improve performance. A minimum of plastic, large spoked wheels, a hard seat and a long-travel rigid suspension are the distinctive features of this motorcycle. The most famous manufacturers of motocross motorcycles are Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Suzuki, Yamaha. The weight of such a motorcycle is about 100 kilograms, the optimal is 90–95 kg. One of the most titled freestyle motocross riders, Puerto Rican Travis Pastrana, who first performed a double somersault in competition and is considered the founder of freestyle motocross, always rides Suzuki motorcycles. The average motocross bike costs approximately 5,500 euros. The final price of the motorcycle will depend on the number of improvements made.

Engine

The best freestyle engine is a 250cc two-stroke. see. The carburetor must immediately be adjusted so that the engine is not loaded upon landing. It is better to adjust the maximum power output at high speeds for training in natural flights; if you have to jump in the park with short accelerations, then it is better to adjust the output at medium and low speeds. Special resonators and a larger rear sprocket will help cope with this situation.

Suspension

A special suspension is used for a softer landing. You can configure the existing one for the so-called slow style (relative to the rebound speed) or supercross according to the rider’s weight. For long jumps you will need to add more stiffness at the end of the suspension travel.

Comfort and grip

A slightly raised handlebar without a crossbar is used to freely make acrobatic movements above it, so there is more room for legs and arms. Lowering the seat (cutout) also serves the same purpose, making it easier to move your leg when performing tricks. The wings are trimmed for ease of performing various acrobatic elements. To make the grips, you need to make cutouts in the side panels. Handles just above the handlebars and above the rear fender are also popular modifications.

The difference between a motocross motorcycle and an enduro motorcycle

At first glance, it may seem that a motocross motorcycle and an enduro bike are one and the same. But it turns out that these two vehicles have a lot of differences:

1. Power apparatus. The only task of the engine on a motocross motorcycle is to take off and perform at its maximum, ensuring victory for its owner. Cruising speed is not needed here. Therefore, the engine feels great at high speeds. As for enduro, it performs well even at lower speeds. They are designed for driving with possible stops or hitches. Motocross gears are short, while enduro gears are more noticeable.
2. Electrical system. Enduro can be easily recognized by the presence of a powerful headlight and brake lights. This is due to the fact that check-in for them can also be organized at night. Motocross motorcycles compete exclusively during the day. Therefore, lighting is not important for him. On enduro there is always a starter, but on cross-country shoes a kickstarter is more common.
3. Wheels and suspension. The crossbike is capable of jumping on trampolines and overcoming serious obstacles on harsh terrain. Therefore, rigid forks are simply necessary for it. This motorcycle has a high seating position. In enduro it is much lower, and the shock absorption is softer. The wheels of both models are equipped with low-profile rubber, but the enduro has a gap on the rim that allows you to reduce the tire pressure for better grip.
4. Supply system. Due to the fact that a motocross motorcycle accelerates to high speeds, its gas consumption is significant. But it won’t be possible to install a large fuel tank here, as this will make the equipment heavier. Due to the fact that motocross racing distances are short, a full tank is enough for several starts. Enduro has a larger tank, longer routes, and lower gas mileage.
5. Additional elements. There should not be a single unnecessary detail on a motocross bike. Enduro has them. These are the running board, mirrors and other tuning.

Comparison

Honda Transalp 650

One of the best motorcycles that are adapted for off-road driving is the Honda Transalp 650. The main advantage of such a vehicle is its relatively low weight, which goes well with a powerful V-twin engine. The performance of the power unit of 52 horsepower is enough to drive at speeds of up to 180 km/h on hard surfaces or 120 km/h off-road. Of course, such a motorcycle cannot be called the most powerful, therefore, when fully loaded, its top speed drops by approximately 20 km/h in any driving mode.

The main advantage of the Honda off-road motorcycle is its unpretentiousness. A simple carburetor engine proved itself in the sands of the Sahara, and in the snow-covered forests of Siberia, and on high mountain plateaus. It can be repaired or reconfigured in the field without the need for complex tools and electronic equipment. With proper care and timely oil changes, the Transalp 650 power unit lasts up to 300 thousand kilometers without major repairs, so those who wish can easily go on a trip around the world on a motorcycle.

There will be no difficulties when repairing off-road equipment. Honda Transalp 650 motorcycles are quite common in Russia and many other countries, so it will not be difficult to find spare parts for them. And if you set a goal and spend a little time, you can find used components with a good residual life. Unfortunately, the model is currently out of production, but you can always buy a used vehicle with low mileage for 350–400 thousand rubles.

How to choose a good mountain bike?

Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki models have proven themselves well among mountain motorcycles. For more than 20 years, these companies have been constantly improving their motorcycles in order to overcome even greater heights on the trails. They use stiffer suspension for mountainous terrain, a small gas tank and a powerful engine. Among the powerful mountain patrons is the 400 cc engine. see in the new Honda XR650R.

Some motorcycles come with a 250cc engine. cm, they are used for smoother off-road movement, especially at night. The Japanese mountain bike Suzuki Djebel 200 is available with a special powerful headlight, a gas tank capacity of 13 liters and is designed for a distance of 500 km. The motorcycle is not very heavy, so it can be easily carried by hand.

Mountain motorcycles are often used for competitions, so the mandatory technical requirements for such vehicles are described:

• weight and displacement must correspond to the class of the motorcycle;
• titanium parts cannot be used;
• the load on the motorcycle depends on the minimum weight;
• noise level is taken into account;
• restrictions on the width of the steering wheel;
• a certain control lever, the height of the footrests and the travel of the brake suspension;
• mandatory installation of mud flaps;
• required tire size and profile;
• number of license plates and numbers, their size, color.

It is not possible to answer exactly how much a mountain bike costs, as we see, it all depends on the country of manufacture and the technical characteristics of the unit: type of motor, engine power, compressor, type of brake system, frame, tank volume and much more. There are special websites of electronic stores where you can find out everything about mountain bikes; prices will depend on the unit itself.

For a holiday in the mountains, this motorcycle is what you need. However, before you get behind such a powerful unit, you need to have some skills and abilities in driving a mountain bike.

Motorcyclists are fearless people, and those who overcome steep mountains on their bikes are doubly so. Video to prove it:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=SPD3K5ys3KI

KTM 990 Adventure

It must be said that the Austrian company took more care of the off-road qualities of the motorcycle than of its convenience. In terms of cross-country ability, it is not inferior to a classic cross-country motorcycle with a 500 cc engine - this is facilitated by the relatively low weight for this class of motorcycle equipment, as well as enormous suspension travel. So if you're not into mini motorcycles, the 990 Adventure is the perfect choice for off-road adventures.

Among the advantages, it is worth noting the incredibly powerful 1-liter engine, whose performance reaches 110 horsepower. On good surfaces, the speed is limited to 220 km/h, and on off-road conditions it depends only on the driver’s skills and ability to hold the vehicle while driving at a fast pace. However, you need to prepare for a not entirely pleasant sensation, since the seat is excessively rigid.

It is also worth noting the fact that the KTM motorcycle welcomes an aggressive riding style - its powerful engine and well-tuned suspension force the biker to choose above average speed. Competitors will love this, but when driving long distances, the overly sharp reactions begin to tire. Interestingly, a motorcycle with such outstanding characteristics does not require emptying the family budget - a new KTM two-wheeler will cost 800 thousand rubles, and a used one can be purchased for up to 500 thousand.

Off-road motorcycle rating

A bike is a combination of technical characteristics and individual character. Perhaps our rating will inspire you to buy one of the next “iron horses”.

Iconic representatives of SUVs from different parts of the world:

• The BMW R1200GS is a cult German classic. Suitable for tourism, both on highways and country, forest and steppe roads. Unlike many of its “brothers”, it has an attractive, streamlined design. The biker has at his disposal a four-stroke 1200 cc engine with a power of 124 horsepower, a two-section frame, a 6-speed gearbox and a cardan instead of the usual chain drive.

• Yamaha WR250R is a laconic Japanese soft-enduro weighing 134 kg with a 250 cc engine, a durable aluminum frame and gasoline injection.

• Triumph Tiger 800XC is the choice of fans of English style. The bike has a recognizable discreet design, and the 800 cc engine produces 95 hp. With. It is distinguished by its endurance not only in relation to off-road driving, but also in relation to the load being carried. By the way, contrary to British conservatism, the updated version received more than 200 innovations.

• The KTM 1190 ADVENTURE is a touring bike originating from Austria and designed to make touring fun. A powerful engine, a 6-speed claw shift transmission, a wide steering wheel, and low weight (230 kg) - this ensures a soft and confident ride.

• DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200S is a temperamental Italian, producing from 100 to 150 hp. depending on the selected mode. Unique for its versatility. DTC technology allows you to select the desired driving mode: Urban, Sport, Enduro or Tourism. Top speed is 250 km/h.

• Honda X-ADV is a Japanese maxi-scooter that proves that you can ride comfortably on country roads. It has a 54-horsepower engine, a dual-clutch transmission, a spacious 21-liter trunk, and a 12-volt outlet. Instead of the usual ignition key, the owner uses a special beeper.

• BMW S1000XR is another “German” in our rating. When talking about off-road motorcycles, one cannot miss this brainchild of BMW Motorrad. This is a crossover with sporty dynamics. The four-cylinder engine provides 164 hp. and a top speed of 274 km/h. The sound of the ride is emphasized by a high-quality muffler. Every detail has been thought out here - from the aggressive design of the headlights to the multifunctional instrument panel.

Decide on your choice? It's time to look into the Synergosmoto catalog and order an SUV with delivery from Japan or the USA.

What type of motorcycle does not require a driver's license in 2021?

According to the legislation of the Russian Federation, a driver's license in 2021 is not required only for motocross motorcycles. This rule only works if a person does motocross on it and does not use it for driving on public roads.

Thus, the law requires that the owner of this vehicle must move motocross to special tracks using special equipment. This type of motorcycle is considered a sports motorcycle, for this reason it does not require registration measures.

If a person went onto the road on a motorcycle without a license, then if stopped by a traffic police officer, he will be issued a fine in the amount of 5-15 thousand rubles, followed by the evacuation of the vehicle to a special parking lot. The law states that if the motorcycle belongs to another person, the fine will be up to 30 thousand rubles.

"Enduro"

There is a type of motorcycle sport that combines extreme sports and extreme physical stress. This is motocross on mountain trails. Only hardy, specially trained athletes can do this activity, and it is associated with a unique technical base. Special motorcycles of the “enduro” class participate in competitions on high-altitude tracks, which means “endurance” in Latin.

Mountain bikes are specially tuned machines with low transmission ratios. Most motorcycles in this category are capable of reaching up to 70 km/h, that is, three times less when compared with a road model.

In addition, mountain bikes have a number of characteristics that distinguish them from circuit racing machines. First of all, this is the increased diameter of the front wheel, as a rule, it is no less than 21 inches. Such a significant increase in comparison with the rear wheel is explained by the need for super-maneuvering in mountain road conditions. A front wheel with a smaller diameter simply cannot cope with the dynamics of turns, bends, tilts and skidding.

Yamaha TDM 900

If you are interested in which motorcycle is best for off-road use, but do not intend to use it in the most extreme conditions, the Yamaha enduro is the best option for you. Its main feature is the “asphalt” suspension settings, which include relatively small strokes and significant rigidity. However, the motorcycle handles various bumps quite well, maintaining a stable trajectory and allowing the driver to maintain control in any situation. Although on large pits the rider may be shaken, so it is better to slow down in front of them.

This motorcycle is not suitable for moving through swamps, wet dirt roads and forest clearings. However, it will be ideal for:

• Off-road track trips on weekends;
• Long-distance travel, in which the asphalt road surface alternates with dirt;
• Driving on country roads with large potholes.

The downside is its poor adaptability to serious off-road conditions, but not every motorcyclist needs it. The two-cylinder engine with a power of 86 horsepower is enough for movement in any conditions - the weight of the motorcycle is relatively small thanks to the widespread use of aluminum in the manufacture of the frame and other large components. The maximum speed reaches 220 km/h, and driving at a speed of “over two hundred” will not be particularly uncomfortable.

The great popularity of Yamaha TDM motorcycles allows you to find spare parts for them even in relatively small cities. Of course, the injection intake system is also quite complex, but is it much easier to repair than on a BMW? since there are many more specialists in Japanese motorcycle technology in our country. The cost of the vehicle is also low - you can buy it for 350–400 thousand, choosing equipment produced in 2005–2007.

Touring enduro. Sit down and roll

The most popular enduros, and therefore there is plenty to choose from. It is to this group that the quote from the title refers. The touring enduro can be used both as an everyday motorcycle and as a means of travel. Let's look at them in more detail.

But first, a little bitter truth: tourenduro is a world of contradictions and compromises. It's an impossible goal to make a motorcycle that's ideal for both off-road and highway use. You can only build a universal technique. And here I remember a phrase that I once read on the forum of the Honda Transalp owners club: a universal thing is equally bad for everything. And this is true. The all-round touring bike has a weak engine on the highway and is too heavy off-road.

A touring enduro is a motorcycle for roads with any surface quality. But it is expensive. I would fit all the variety of tourenduro models into the range from 50% asphalt/50% gravel to 95% asphalt/5% gravel.

The point of choosing the right motorcycle for specific conditions of use (for example, traveling) is not just to get to a specific place, but also to get maximum pleasure while riding.

Conventionally, I would divide all tourenduros into four subgroups. Let's talk about them further.

Single-cylinder tourenduros with an engine capacity of 600-800 cc. see. These motorcycles best fit the definition of “tourenduro”; on such devices you can go far from asphalt roads. Many will disagree, but I would recommend the use of single-cylinder tourenduros without a passenger. Only without the second number will “single-barreled guns” fully reveal their potential beyond the asphalt and give pleasure when visiting beautiful places.

The choice here is rich: more “tourist” Suzuki XF 650 Freewind, Aprilia Pegaso 650, BMW F650 GS and more “off-road” Suzuki DR 800 Big, BMW F650 GS Dakar, Yamaha XTZ 660 Tenere. “Off-road” single-cylinder tourenduros are most interesting as motorcycles for conquering all corners of the world on two wheels. For the 50% asphalt/50% gravel formula, the BMW F650 GS Dakar and Yamaha XTZ 660 Tenere are best suited.

Aprilia Pegaso 650

Suzuki DR 800 Big

BMW F650GS Dakar

Yamaha XTZ 660 Tenere

Two-cylinder tourenduros with an engine capacity of 400-750 cc. cm – this group starts with models that are most suitable for traveling with a passenger. Less vibration load and greater elasticity of a two-cylinder engine are the choice of riders who value comfort when driving on the roads rather than the beauty of remote corners. At the same time, the engine power is not enough for quick passes on a good highway and confident overtaking, especially when there is a passenger.

This is an excellent technique if you plan to load your luggage, put on the “+1” and, in a calm, measured rhythm, at a speed of 100-110 km/h, go to distant lands with exits to gravel and good dirt roads. But you need to be prepared in advance for the fact that the motorcycle will not provide much pleasure from driving on good asphalt. As, in principle, on gravel roads (if there is a passenger). As in the case of “single-barrel” cars, there are more “tourist” and more recent Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom, Honda XL700 Transalp and rather older “off-road” Honda XL600/650 Transalp, Honda XRV750 Africa Twin, Yamaha XTZ750 Super Tenere.

Two legendary Honda models deserve special mention – the Transalp 600 and Africa Twin 750. Phenomenal reliability and a combination of consumer qualities allow these middle-aged motorcycles of an ancient design to still be relevant today. You can “tour” to remote locations for quite a long time.

For two, “Africa” is preferable. Such motorcycles with a carburetor are interesting for traveling to countries with low and unstable fuel quality. True, the cost of devices in good condition cannot be called democratic.

If you don’t set a specific goal for travel, then I would consider the same Transalp as a motorcycle “to go fishing 100 km along the highway and further along field and forest paths to the river.” For long trips you need to be smart with the seat - after an hour of driving on the Transalpa you feel discomfort. If you want to seat a passenger, load as many belongings as possible and go “on a long journey” mainly on asphalt roads, then in terms of comfort and at a relatively low price in the 650-k segment, the Suzuki DL650 seems to be the optimal choice.

Honda XL600 Transalp

Honda XRV750 AfricaTwin

Yamaha XTZ750 Super Tenere

Suzuki DL650V-Strom

Two- and three-cylinder tourenduros with an engine capacity of 800 cc. see. In this category I will mention only a couple of motorcycles. Theoretically, it would be possible not to separate them into a separate subgroup. But two modern devices - the BMW F800GS and the Triumph Tiger 800 - occupy their niche. These are motorcycles for fairly enthusiastic drivers - along with excellent suspensions, they have quite fun, powerful engines that allow, with the proper skill, to unscrew the throttle on gravel roads and dirt roads. Fast, fun, playful and preferably without a passenger. The main disadvantage is the high cost of the devices.

BMW F800GS

Triumph Tiger 800XС

Tourenduro with an engine capacity of 1000+ cc. cm - this is a real find for long trips for two on paved roads. But for liter “elephants” in the term “tourist enduro” the second word practically loses its meaning. This is due to the “dry” weight of 200 kg, which after filling with liquids and loading the motorcycle with belongings approaches 300 kg. In fact, these are “road cars” with a more omnivorous suspension and increased ground clearance. The desire to “endurance” disappears, as a rule, after the first fall - lifting a loaded motorcycle with a high center of gravity alone on loose surfaces is almost impossible.

But if you initially consider motorcycles exclusively as touring vehicles with powerful engines, a straight seat, a comfortable seat (including for the passenger), and excellent wind protection, the pleasure of riding will complement the pleasure of the surrounding views. The most popular liter tourenduros in the entry-level price range (and the oldest, respectively) are Aprilia ETV1000 Caponord, Honda XL1000 Varadero, Suzuki DL1000V-Strom, and of course, the icons and trendsetters of the class - BMWR1100GS and BMWR1150GS. From the latest: BMW R1200GS and R1250GS, Triumph Tiger 1200, Honda CRF1000 Africa Twin, Yamaha XT1200Z SuperTenere.

Among the most successful attempts to add enduro to tourism, the new liter Africa Twin should be noted. And of course, where would we be without the most adventurous “off-road vehicles” – sports KTMs. The 990, 1090, 1190 and 1290 are not for the masses and not for leisurely touring, these motorcycles are designed for dynamic rally riding, which requires serious demands on the pilot. And it’s blasphemy to simply drive such a well-thought-out technique. So those who want to “fly on a liter” have a direct route to the Austrians.

Cardan or chain, cast or spoked wheels, V-shaped, in-line or boxer engine - there is plenty to choose from. There are no frankly unsuccessful models on this list, except that the early carburetor Varaderos should be abandoned due to high fuel consumption over long runs.

Honda XL1000 Varadero

BMW R1150GS

Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200

Honda CRF 1000 AfricaTwin

Yamaha XT1200Z Super Tenere

KTM 990 Adventure

There are also a number of excellent machines like Yamaha TDM 850/900, Kawasaki Versys 650/1000, Honda VFR800X Crossrunner and VFR1200X Crosstourer, Ducati Multistrada 1200, etc. De jure they are positioned as touring enduros. But due to their absolute parquet nature, I would not consider them even for partial use on gravel. These are excellent motorcycles, but for any degree of asphalt.

A small note for those who definitely plan to discover beautiful places while traveling together. If you want to go further, and the “number two” is predisposed to independent driving, then it is better to travel on two suitable motorcycles. Even if, instead of a fresh conventional “liter” for 8-10 thousand dollars, you buy two older single-barrel 650s, the number of positive emotions received on the picturesque paths will be many times greater.