Many members of the off-road community share an ambition: to eliminate the boundaries that limit their exploration. It is this common goal that has become the driving force behind the growing popularity of adventure bikes.
Agile, compact and high-performance, these motorcycles offer riders a unique experience on and off-road. Many use them for camping, multi-terrain rides, and everyday commuting.
If you're looking to expand your riding options, here's what you need to know about adventure bikes.
Driving differences
Although adventure motorcycles are designed for riding on and off-road, they have differences that set them apart from traditional motorcycles.
“Obviously, the suspension on an adventure bike is meant to help you overcome rough and complex terrain,” said Justin Custis, general manager of Young Powersports Layton. “It can take some time for riders to get used to it, but luckily manufacturers make it easy to adjust these bikes for on-road and off-road use. There are also plenty of off-road techniques to learn before riding a rough terrain.”
One of the techniques Custis mentions is forehead floating. When passing smaller objects or entering new terrain, riders must adjust their position slightly to create the stability needed to close the gap. When approaching soft terrain, riders should stand up and adjust their position slightly rearward to keep the bike stable.
Adventure riders also need to account for a loss of traction when off-road. This is done by exerting pressure on the footrest located in the direction in which you are turning, controlling the rear tire and managing emergency braking, as ABS can extend the stopping distance when you are turning. rolls off the roadway.
Accessories and equipment
Each adventure bike comes with different accessories and features. Many, like the Yamaha Ténéré 700, are equipped with a skid plate to protect the motorcycle's exhaust pipes and engine from rough terrain. Bikes like CFMOTO's IBEX 800 S are equipped with highway bars to protect the radiator from damage in case the machine is floored.
Aside from protection, potential riders also consider a bike's capabilities when it comes to additional storage. Yamaha and CFMOTO offer saddlebags and racks for additional storage on machines like the Ténéré 700 and IBEX 800 S. There are also bikes like CFMOTO's ADVentura as well as the V-Strom 800DE Adventure and 1050DE Adventure from Suzuki which come with hard cases.
“Like most powersports machines, there are numerous accessories available to help you customize your machine and create your ideal setup,” Custis said. “Those looking to purchase an adventure bike should first consider the machine's potential uses. Try to get something that meets your needs for speed, acceleration, durability and clearance.”
While having the right bike is essential to creating an ideal experience, cyclists must also purchase their appropriate equipment. Adventure bike helmets feature a visor that provides shade and wind deflection.
Custis says those looking for a top-notch experience should consider Shoei's Hornet and Klim's Krios Pro for a quiet, lightweight and comfortable ride. Companies like HJC also offer entry-level options like the DS-X1, designed to give riders a cool, well-ventilated experience at an affordable price.
In addition to helmets, companies like Klim also make riding jackets and pants. Custis recommends their Carlsbad collection, designed to provide riders with excellent ventilation and abrasion resistance as well as waterproof material. Cortech, Alpinestars and Noru also create jackets and pants specifically for adventurous bikers. The Alpinestars Drystar collection is known for having a removable liner that can be used to manage temperature.
“Because you're dealing with various elements, I recommend getting full gear,” Custis said. “Opt for a helmet, jacket and gloves to ensure optimal protection. I also recommend investing in riding boots to protect your feet and ankles.
Most riding boots strive to maintain flexibility while providing optimal protection. The Klim Outlander GTX, Ridgeline and Transition GTX also make great hiking shoes and come with a boa for easy lacing. Noru's Izu boots come with a toe slide, protecting the top of the rider's foot against a wall or the ground.
Community trails
Southern Utah has become a hub for the adventure riding community. Trails through Zions National Park, Moab, and Valley of the Gods are frequently explored by horseback riders. That said, Northern Utah also has several locations.
“I especially like the Pony Express trail in Salt Lake,” Custis said. “It features challenging terrain and great mountain views. It's also a great place to experience some of Utah's phenomenal history.”
Many cyclists also visit famous off-road destinations like Bountiful Peak, Oquirrh Loop, and Little Saraha.
“For me, adventure riding is super special,” Custis said. “It's the best of both worlds. You're comfortable on a bike for long trips, then you can easily take it off and rip it up, camp and enjoy what Utah has to offer. The possibilities are endless. are limited only to your skill level, how well you know your area and your imagination. I don't think there are other experiences that offer the type of freedom you have access to on an adventure bike. .
Young Powersports of Layton offers adventure bikes from Yamaha, Suzuki and CFMOTO. Click on the link to explore their inventory.
