TOP 7 best enduro motorcycles: rating, pros and cons, reviews, price

Comparison of models

Based on the rating presented above, a comparative table of technical characteristics of the presented models has been compiled, with which you can compare motorcycles. We hope this will help you in your choice in the future.

Hard enduro

This type is intended for competitions.

They are made from dirt bikes. A dashboard, headlights, and rear brake light were added to them. Engine settings have been changed - maximum power at lower speeds. Transmission with long gears and slightly softer suspension. The motorcycle is a sports motorcycle, so it needs to be maintained constantly, just like a motocross motorcycle. In terms of power-to-weight ratio, hard enduro definitely wins compared to other types. It is the most powerful and lightest of all types in this class.

The main representatives of Japanese brands: Honda CRF250 (450) X, Yamaha WR250 (450) f, Kawasaki KLX450R, Suzuki RMX450Z.

Rating of the best enduro motorcycles

KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS

Rating: 5.0

The largest and most muscular horse from the Austrian stable is the KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS enduro. The motorcycle has repeatedly proven its worth at international competitions. The model successfully passed its last tests in Chile, where racing took place for 6 days. Engine capacity 510.4 cc. cm on the dyno gave 41 liters. With. Most of all, experts liked the engine’s performance at medium and high speeds, although the traction is good at the bottom. The Enduro is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and an 8.5-liter gas tank. The motorcycle weighs 106.5 kg, but this does not affect handling and maneuverability. For predictability, stability and reliability, the model receives gold in our rating.

Domestic motorcyclists consider the strengths of the KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS to be versatility, power and comfort.

Advantages

• powerful engine;
• good maneuverability;
• maneuverability;
• reliability.

Flaws

• not detected.

Soft/light enduro

The first category includes equipment that has slid off the asphalt onto a dirt road washed out after rain. It must be light, capable of overcoming a low log and, if necessary, it can be pulled through an obstacle and not be a weightlifter with 45 arms (hussars keep quiet) cm.

There are 2 ways here. The first one is chosen by most because it is cheap. This is any Chinese enduro in the budget segment up to $2000. This includes a huge amount of Chinese equipment from 125cc to 300cc with prefixes pro, super, enduro, best price, hot offer, very good and other AliExpress. Also, His Holiness Minsk x250 is present here. All of China is +/- the same in this category.

Let's look at the advantages:

This new technology is of questionable quality, but it turns many people on. Why is it doubtful? Because Chinese motorcycles rarely perform well out of the box. But in new technology, at least from a collective farm, the plastic is intact (if delivery is not by Russian Post). The threads are not broken (which is a matter of time) and the magical smell of the rice from which your new Chinese is made.

The Chinese are cheap, that's true, for a bag of crackers you get a new motorcycle that works.

There are always spare parts for them, if not for your model, then 3-4 other similar ones will do.

Spare parts cost pennies. The engine capital costs less than a new smartphone.

They are easy to maintain and design.

Well, now the disadvantages, not even disadvantages, but the bad things that you will encounter when choosing a budget China.

Quality of workmanship and materials. Pressed rice is not the best material for an engine. The problem with China is its quality, which is determined by its price. Well, what do you want for this money? This is not so much a minus, but a fact. Forgive, accept and wipe away your tears of joy.

I myself am a former owner of a Chinese budget Racer 150 enduro and I know what I’m talking about. It is difficult to single out anything specific from the models, all +/- are at the same level. I would advise reading the reviews and deciding for yourself what you are willing to put up with for the money.

And now a little advice for those who are thinking of buying a cheap Chinese motorcycle and doing hard enduro. No, no way, actually, we tried that too. It won’t work out, even if you really want to, but that’s it, it’s a pity, but miracles don’t happen. These motorcycles are not designed for extreme loads, bent handlebars, crossbars, rims, torn pendulums and broken frames. That's all that awaits you. And even if nothing breaks, the technical characteristics, such as suspension travel and its overall operation, will not allow you to ride comfortably on serious off-road conditions. But if you are on your nine...then you are welcome.

To summarize, the selection criterion boils down to choosing a model with the least number of sores and the possibility of not ending up with a particularly bad model.

Touring enduro

These are motorcycles for touring. Their main difference is the presence of wind protection - a not too large, but effective front fairing. It gives an advantage on long-distance trips, and the front windshield protects the driver from small stones on the highway, headwinds, rain and insects.

Of this type, I would like to mention the Kawasaki KLE 250 Anhelo. It is not entirely suitable for tourist trips due to the low engine power, which does not allow you to fully feel on the highway. Truly considered good touring enduro bikes are those with a powerful engine and a high weight, which provides sufficient carrying capacity to carry everything you need on the road.

Experienced motorcyclists can pay attention to the rather expensive and fresh liter Honda Africa Twin adventure sport with an automatic transmission, which allows you to ride comfortably on the highway and on bad roads.

Enduro motorcycles from 200,000 to 300,000 rubles

But in the 200-300 thousand category, when it comes to choosing a motorcycle, everything is not at all clear. Here are both top Chinese and Japanese enduros, which are not so old anymore and have very “fun” characteristics. But let's take things in order. On my YouTube channel “Moto Life Enduro ” there are quite a few reviews of top Chinese enduro motorcycles. This is the best that Chinese manufacturers offer. There are modern suspensions, excellent brakes, and powerful engines. In addition, all the advantages described above, such as the easy availability of both the motorcycles themselves and spare parts, have not gone away. Prominent representatives of the class are the ZUUM CX300R and Avantis 300Pro.

The concept of enduro: where it came from

Enduro comes from the Latin word indurare, which means tireless, persistent, tenacious.

The Enduro class emerged as a result of the International Six Day Trial, a world team six-day cross-country motorcycle competition, held since the beginning of the twentieth century. The purpose of these competitions was to test the strength and identify the best motorcycles of the participating teams. Over time, racing rules and requirements for motorcycles changed. After each race, the teams had to constantly refine the equipment, thanks to which the appearance of enduro motorcycles became unique and today it can no longer be confused with any other class of motorcycle.

There are many types of motorcycles in this class, but we will take three main ones. Let's look into them.

Chinese enduro

The range of Chinese enduro motorcycles is wide, and the price range is even wider. You can buy an enduro for 60-80 thousand, or for 250-280 thousand. How to understand all this diversity and choose something for a beginner?

How to choose a Chinese enduro motorcycle

Let's set some introductions. Firstly, it is quite difficult for a beginner who has no experience riding a motorcycle to initially decide on the type of motorcycle. If you have clearly decided that you need an enduro, then move on.

Important points: the height of the driver and the weight of the motorcycle. A short beginner, of course, will be more comfortable on a low motorcycle, on which he can reach the ground with his entire foot. Let's keep this in mind.

The most important criterion is perhaps the price. Especially for a beginner. After all, you still need to purchase equipment, which is very expensive.

So, let's break down enduro bikes into price ranges and see what's interesting about them.

Up to 100,000 rubles

BSE Z1

This motorcycle with 19/16 inch wheels is perfect for a short beginner. In terms of dimensions, it is between pit bikes and enduro motorcycles. Thanks to the low seating position, you will confidently reach the ground with your feet and feel comfortable off-road. The motorcycle has a 150 cc engine, but it is quite torquey, its power is enough even to overcome climbs.

Price: 79,990 rub. This is a great inexpensive enduro bike for a short beginner.

BSE J1/J2

This motorcycle is already more serious. Wheels 21/18, 250 cubes. It rides more cheerfully, but the seating position is also higher. Good off-road tires, 17 hp, good grip and traction.

Price: about 100 thousand depending on the configuration.

Motoland Enduro ST 250

A bright representative of universal enduro. There is a PTS, all the lighting equipment accordingly. Wide comfortable seat, soft energy-intensive suspension, balancing shaft - minimum vibrations from the engine.

A good option for those who have not yet decided - on-road/off-road - or just need a universal motorcycle for leisurely, non-extreme trips that will go anywhere. Comfortable ride for two.

Price: 88,900 rub.

Kayo K1 250 MX

New motorcycle for 2021. Fits well at a height of 170 cm, both legs confidently reach the ground. In general, the fit is similar to a pit bike. An excellent option for price-quality. Lightweight, weighing only 105 kg.

Price: 99,990 rub.

Lifan LF200GY-3B

Dual purpose motorcycle. Available in two variations: on road and off-road tires. There is a PTS, you can register it. 200 cc, 14 hp Accelerate a motorcycle to 100 km/h using GPS. A fairly large tank volume of 9.5 liters.

Price: 84,900 rub.

From 100,000 to 150,000 rubles

BSE Z5

A motorcycle worth paying attention to. There are several modifications that differ significantly in price: with the ZS 172FMM and ZS166 FMM engines. A motorcycle with a fairly high seating position. It is unlikely to be suitable for beginners with short stature, but tall beginner endurists will appreciate the fit.

Price: 124,990 rub.

KAYO T2 MX

An excellent motorcycle from a reputable Chinese brand. Two variations: with and without PTS. Accordingly, this is a cheaper version without PTS. There are also no suspension adjustments, the motorcycle is slightly higher. An excellent option if you don’t need to travel on public roads.

Price: 111,990 rub.

KAYO T2 ENDURO

Big brother of T2 MX. It differs not only in the presence of PTS. A completely different motorcycle. There is an adjustable suspension, a larger tank volume, and a different seat.

Price: 139,990 rub.

Of course, these are not all Chinese enduro motorcycles. There are more than 70 models in our catalog alone. By the way, you can get acquainted with them in the Cross/Enduro section.

Why should you choose Chinese enduro? That's why:

• Reliability. The Chinese have taken a step forward in the quality of their products. It has become objectively more reliable.
• Power. A 250 cc engine is enough to experience all the delights of enduro.
• For larger amounts you can get both 300 and 450 cc “Chinese”.
• Maintenance cost. You are buying a new motorcycle. With proper operation and timely maintenance, you will spend a minimum on caring for your motorcycle.
• Available spare parts. Motorcycles are produced here and now, as are spare parts for them.
• Low price. Chinese motorcycles are really cheap. And the money saved can be spent on equipment.

Other criteria for choosing an enduro for a beginner

The soft version (250 cc and less) is best suited for a beginner, as it meets the basic criteria of a motorcycle for beginners:

• Ease and simplicity of control. It’s easy to control, like a bicycle, and it can squeeze through everywhere due to its narrow profile and high steering wheel – it won’t touch the mirrors of most cars.
• Good review. Achieved thanks to a high, straight landing - you can look over cars without any problems.
• Single cylinder engine. Provides traction from the very bottom, which is just right for beginners.
• Simplicity and low maintenance costs.
• Sufficient speed for beginners. For those who like to ride with the breeze, a cruising speed of 100 km/h (plus or minus 10) will be enough. The speed is limited by the absence of a fairing and a long suspension stroke, while it does not depend on the engine capacity (therefore, when choosing software, you should not chase power - weight is more important). Acceleration time to 100 km depends on the speed of gear changes (they are short), for a beginner it will be useful to learn how to do this quickly. In addition, there will be an opportunity to master the skill of working with your own weight.

Let's start with motocross motorcycles.

These are sports equipment that were created specifically for extreme conditions. They are light, powerful and strong for falls, long jumps with a hard landing. But there is a catch, with great power comes great danger for less experienced riders. What can I say, even experienced riders sometimes suffer from power, flying 3 meters away from the motorcycle. As for enduro cross-country vehicles, the specifics force us to face some minor difficulties. Motocross bikes are designed for high range performance and hard landings from the track's crossover jumps. Slow ride and harsh suspension are not exactly what these units are made for. But as experience shows, for near sports enduro this technique is at the top in popularity. If you are not a professional athlete, then you will be completely satisfied with this technique. Yes, it is less suitable for enduro than pure hard enduro equipment, but it is the best and closest to ideal that you can get for the money (oh, and I’ll get it for this in the comments)

Representatives:

• yamaha yz 125-250/250-450f
• Honda cr125-250/crf 250-450
• Kawasaki kx125-250/250-450f

Of the main disadvantages, this is either the year of manufacture, which will entail such inconveniences as a complete overhaul of the motorcycle, if you are unlucky with the specimen, search and subsequent delivery of spare parts. And of course the price of service, but it's worth it. May the owners of Chinese equipment forgive me.

The other side of the coin is the enduro version. They are quite rare in our area and are more expensive than cross-techniques. I will even say that you will have to try to find something suitable for a non-astronomical budget. But if you are the lucky one who snatched a Yamaha WR250R/ Honda crf 250x/ Suzuki drz 400, then I hasten to congratulate you, you hit the jackpot. This is the ideal technique for intermediate enduro. And if you don't have plans to go kick Jarvis' skinny ass, he'll last you a very long time. These specimens are lightweight, have sufficient power, and an excellent rev range, which allows you to pull the miracle of Japanese technology from the very bottom.

Well, the cherry on the cake is the chassis from the Japanese-Austrian and the engine from Uncle Mao. Hush hush, at first I also thought that they were trying to bully me) this is actually a very interesting approach. For $2000 you get excellent durability, working sports suspension, frame strength and an easy-to-maintain engine, with cheap spare parts and enough power for almost a professional. ride. The power of the Chinese engine will not be enough on long climbs, but excellent low end and carrying traction will make life easier when overcoming obstacles. And low power will forgive mistakes, but this is not certain, it’s an enduro after all.

The advantages of this option are obvious:

• excellent frame and suspension;
• cheap engine maintenance.

Of the minuses

• significant difference in power between the Japanese/Austrian and Chinese units;
• the cost of assembling your Frankenstein, if you are not comfortable with argon and basic mechanics;
• It’s not Orthodox to push a Chinese into a Japanese.

To summarize all of the above:

If you want a new enduro motorcycle at an inexpensive price, then you will have to wipe away all your tears from the joy of owning China yourself.

If you want Japanese, again, for not very expensive, you have a huge selection of cross-country equipment at your disposal. Yes, there are nuances, but they are more than offset by huge advantages.

Separately, I will supply old KTM motorcycles. Even the non-Japanese don’t know so many jokes about repairs and the huge price tag. I wouldn't recommend buying anything older than 2013. But it's up to you, the KTM for $1500 will give you a lot of experience. After all, what doesn’t kill us only makes us stronger.

Well, option 3, which is also the best, is to search and buy enduro versions, it’s more expensive, it’s more complicated, but it’s a refined technique for our purposes.

And our highlight, the Japanese-Austrian chassis with a Chinese heart.

Enduro motorcycles from 100,000 to 200,000 rubles

At a price of 100 to 200 thousand rubles, you can take mid-level Chinese, which are quite okay. More mature suspensions and brakes are installed here. The engines, although not top-end, have quite reasonable power, which, by the way, are never inferior to their Japanese counterparts, but more on that later. At the lower end of this price segment, in the Chinese camp, motorcycles with a 172FMM engine from Zongshen rule the roost. It is simple, reliable and quite powerful, considering the price of course. This time I will not highlight any specific brand, since for a specific price you can choose motorcycles from different manufacturers that are approximately similar in characteristics and price. You can find out more about enduro motorcycles and more on our website motolifeshop.ru, or consult me ​​about choosing a motorcycle https://vk.com/id33761688, I am open for communication. As for Chinese motorcycles at the top of this segment, there is not much choice. Or Motoland XR250 PRO or again Motoland WRX250 Lite WFA, which I recently took for myself. Oh yes, there is also the Motoland XT250STW. All these motorcycles are united by the Zongshen 170MM-2 engine, which, in fact, is the brother of the 172, but has 4 valves instead of 2 and liquid cooling.