Thinking about downsizing? This may help.
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- Опубликовано: 17 янв 2023
- I answer three simple questions about downsizing:
1 - Do I miss my Africa Twin (or any large adventure bike)?
2 - Do I miss the power?
3 - Can you still carry all your camping gear on a smaller bike?
If you are thinking about downsizing your bike, maybe this video will help you with your decision...
I have both an Africa Twin and a CRF300L. Power does not ‘achieve’ anything. It just makes you ‘feel’ good. Weight, or a lack of it, 100% helps you achieve things and take you places a heavier bike can’t.
Well said Leigh 👍
100%
I am 62 years old with 45 years of trailbike riding. I own a well sorted 2006 bmw 1200gs also a well sorted wr250r also a fully adventurized 2006 ktm 525, big tank, cush drive,and all the best other mods. The ktm gets 75% of my riding approx 1000kms a month. Less really is better for me.40 plus horsepower is my sweet spot. Yes more service time but simple to live with and built it for under $10,000 complete
Feeling good is why I ride. Don’t pretend that doesn’t matter.
I was going through Kyrgyzstan with my CRF250 Rally and it did really well, except for those high roads with tarmac (close to Chatyr Kol). It was barely going with me and the luggage. This plus highway is where I was in need for more power and finally I moved to Husky 701 Enduro - same weight, but a bit more powerful.
Two benefits of downsizing I haven't seen mentioned: 1. After years of surviving litre bikes, on the CRF I finally feel like my riding skills are improving again. 2. New experience, actually getting to the throttle stop! The CRF is the only bike I've ever had at full throttle (up a steep mountain pass, speed limit 100kmh), which tells me every other bike I've had has been overpowered.
I had downsized to a 300L which after driving a KTM 450exc I got rid of the 250L. The KTM is so much more capable and agile
I've made a startling discovery: The slower I go, the MORE I see! ... and, of course, the faster I go, the LESS I see! Now, I ask myself, "What is the TRUE purpose of the ride? ... to tick off "I went/got there." or to see marvelous scenery? The answer to these questions defines one's True bike needs.
100% Correct mate! I have an Africa Twin, a CRF300L and CRF300Rally. I just rode across Australia 5200km with my son on the CRF300s and the only time I missed the AT was when we had 45km/h head winds, so just slowed down to 90km/h. Everything else was a bonus on the 300s, being able to ride any track or on the beach etc. made all the difference. We were able to easily carry all the gear we needed and were completely self reliant.
Simon, that sounds like a great adventure. You also nailed one of the reasons I got ride of my AT... I was not confident to take in down unknown beach access tracks for fear of getting stuck. On the 300 Rally there are no worries.
Phew thats many kms, do you find the bike sluggish on the highways?
@@stoicwarrior346 Not at all, but you must understand that it is not like an old XL250 thumper, it’s a modern high revving engine and you have to ride it that way. Don’t be scared, it can do 8000 rpm all day every day.
@@simonmaton I have been use you to the XT500, but this rally bike seems to tick most boxes but a 290cc motor just seemed to be wrong move.
Always best to speak to people who have done many miles because they know the bike well.
Is the maintenance good on these bikes and is it easy to do oneself?
@@stoicwarrior346 maintenance is easy, oil change is a 10 minute job, air filter the same.
I can definitely see where some are deterred from riding off road less with a bigger bike, but for me, the weight has always been fun to learn to work with and for someone who will travel hundreds of miles to see friends in other states and go ride some local trails with them, it's a handy machine. Things would be easier with less weight at times, but learning to control the power is very rewarding. I'd definitely snag a 300L if I didn't do so much mixed riding and mainly did all offroad and absolutely agree on your point about there being some spots you just shouldn't take the larger bikes, at least without a friend. Safety first
Excellent vid and subject matter. On the flip side, I was considering upsizing from my DRZ400 but I’m now convinced it’s all I need for adventuring 😀
Thanks. Yes, don't be fooled by all the news, big adventure bike hype... just set your DRZ400 up with a screen, bigger tank, comfy seat and maybe a little taller gearing.
I really understood everything you wanted to say and the reason for your decision. I agree! best of luck on your journey.
Thanks Marcia
Great video Sean! That picture of the loaded bike at the end cracked me up.
Hi Bill, thanks for watching. I've actually seen a few bikes that are not far off being that loaded up. Makes me wonder how they get on and off, let alone ride the thing!
Straight and to the point. Excellent video. I have a 18' KTM 1090 and a 07' KTM 450 EXC. Both serve a purpose and i am very fortunate that i can have both.
Thanks. You have a good pair of bikes to cover all rides.
From another CRF300L Rally owner to another I hole heartedly agree. Thanks for sharing your reasons for changing to a smaller bike. John in the US.
Hi John, thanks for watching. I'm glad you feel the same way.
Thank you very much for this! So far I've been riding a BMW GS 650 F and can't manage it at all off-road and I'm just scared. Every try was a big fail endet up with droppings and panic attacks. I am very short (165cm) and do not have enough strength to hold this lady. That's why I decided to downgrade to a CRF 300 RALLY. Hopefully next week she will finally arrive for my next adventure in the Spanish desert and TET Spain! I hope that I will be less afraid in the future and that my self-confidence and off-road skills will benefit from it...that means: actually, I don't have any skills at all.
Hi Shonky, love your channel. I have a 2022 - 300 L Rally and love it, Yes I do miss the power of my 2016 WR 450 sometimes, however I have much more fun on the little 300 and it's SO comfortable and can do everything and more . And no changing oil every 1000 Ks. Was toying with getting one of the European 500s but it's all just getting too expensive for most of those bikes, plus the mods, tank, etc etc etc etc. I'm sticking with the little Honda. Cheers Cam
Hi Cam, glad to hear that you're loving the 300 Rally. A mate of mine has just paid close to $20,000 for a KTM500 to turn into an adventure bike and that's before adding the tower, fuel tank and seat. It makes the CRF300 Rally a real bargain.
During the early 1980's I had a Yamaha XT 500 which took me around Africa, Europe, North and Central America for well over 300 000 km, similar power to a CRF 300 only lower revving with massive low end torque.
The key to enjoying an adventure is to travel light, in my opinion, I used only a single duffle bag limited to 20 kg mounted lengthwise to eliminate overhang, the minimalist approach has its downsides, but it enhances the adventure, making it more of a challenge.
During the 1990-2000's when larger bikes became available, I remember an incident with a pair on BMW GS 1000's who carried way too much luggage, struggling in muddy sections of the Petin jungle of Guatemala, averaging perhaps 5 km per day (estimate) not being able to ride in the ruts of oil exploration trucks, due to the boxer cylinder arrangement, they had to clear mud after every wheel rotation, I managed 60 km, it wasn't easy but I couldn't imagine the he'll they went through.
Currently I have a CRF 250l along with a KLX 150 BF, the Kawasaki is like riding a bicycle after the CRF, in all honesty if I were to embark on another adventure I would choose the KLX, yes it would be slow, but an adventure shouldn't be rushed, it should be rewarding. Lower speeds are significantly safer especially in unknown terrain or countries not familiar with larger motorcycles, 4 wheel drivers underestimate the speed and the last thing you need is to be messed up in a collision away from home, especially in a third world country, don't ask why I know this.
Keep weight to a minimum, speed is only relevant, enjoy the adventure and perhaps the most important of all is to travel alone as it eliminates competition, saving the relationship with the person once considered a friend, unless you both have a common understanding.
Interesting story, 300 000kms on an XT500?!
All really good points. I especially liked "Adventure shouldn't be rushed".
Great points! Very well put.
Ivor, beautiful words..spot on
Your reasons for going light are spot on and the 300 makes it even easier as it is such an easy bike to set up and ride.
Yes, it took me a few bikes to finally work that out. Some of my other smaller bikes were great off road, but not so good on road. The CRF 300 Rally does it all and does it easily.
I was on the CRF RALLY WENT TO KTM 390 Adventure and just added the African Twin DCT adventure Sport and from my old days riding Ultra Classic Harley Davidson to now. In Philippines this is the best bike. I’m huge 6’5” 300 lbs I can easily handle this bike and off road it makes everything I do easier. There are times I miss the Rally but not very often.
I kept my ATAS 1100 DCT for longer distances or shopping groceries. Very very happy with my CRF300 Rally on & off road. Occasionnaly riding my 2019 Monkey.
Absolutely nailed it shonky! Ive just put my first 750kms on my crf300 rally. I owned a A/T. Completely agree 👍
Thanks Travis, good work on your smart downgrade. In sure you will be doing a lot more riding with the 300.
Thanks for the vid! Went from a R1200GS to a Tenere 700 to finally a CRF300L with rally tower. Long process but found my perfect buddy 🙂. For pure road ride I also have a Street triple R. This is for me the perfect combo.
Sounds like you had a similar journey to me to finding your perfect off road bike. And, it's nice to have a good road bike for touring the tar.
Preach it! Using a Versys 650 for pure road, CRF250L for dual sport, KDX220R for pure dirt.
Great video. Currently have an AT and waiting for my 300L Rally to come in. Downsizing for the same reasons...especially since I ride solo most of the time.
Thanks. I ride solo too and was too worried to take the AT down unknown trails. Now on the 300 Rally I am not worried at all!
Great video.
Great consideration 👌 I just went out with friends whom rode a Husqvarna 360 and a Honda 500 kept up perfectly well with the rest of 700 .... and even 1100.. they pointed out all the flexibility, maneuverability, easiness to handle.
Cheers 🍻
Yes, many people are surprised that smaller bikes can do it all too.
My experience is the same. Went from 1200GS to KTM690 to CRF250L (didn't know the 300 was coming). I thought it would a temporary solution until some manufacturer releases a modern single cylinder 450 to 600 (690?) true dual sport for distance travel (NOT an enduro bike). But I am surprised how happy I am with the CRF250L. You have expressed exactly my reasoning perfectly. The Honda can take me more places, in comfort, and get me back home, than any of my previous bikes. For that reason I'm in love with it. Icing on the cake is it's surprisingly smooth & unruffled on the unavoidable highway sections. I just learned to chill, enjoy the purring motor at 110kph or less & rarely bother overtaking. Spin off benefit: I now enjoy noticing the scenery I'm passing.
That's exactly what I'm finding. I just chill on the highway and enjoy the journey. I too am noticing things that I've never seen before on the same roads I've ridden for years!
Actually super pleased to have a big bore Adventure Bike. I rarely do single track but I do a lot of off-road and it eats up everything but the single track/technical riding trails, does it in style and comfort and is heaps of fun.
That's great. I loved my Africa Twin on most trails, but I tended to explore further and further off the main trails and that's when I had issues with its weight.
Same, here. I have an ATAS and a 300L. The little 300 has become my “go to” bike, especially around the city. I changed the suspension, handlebars, seat and added a windshield…bike is so much fun to ride.
Sounds like you have t setup perfectly.
Great video! Got my rally a few weeks ago, been super busy with work, so not as much time to ride as I’d like. I’ve only got about 200 miles on it, but absolutely love everything about it. Adding the usual mods, stock improved ECU, bar risers , rack etc. pretty much all the stuff to make a really good bike great! Been riding and still own a couple old XRs and will always love my old girls (250r and 650r) but this rally is so refined and smooth by comparison. I’m 51, in good shape and not a small guy (6’1 , 210) and I absolutely wouldn’t want to wrestle a 450-500 pound bike off the blacktop. Enough ramble, it’s a great little bike anyone can have a blast on. Ride red, ride safe!!
Hi Kevin, thanks for the comment. I've had a few XR's in my day too. I have a fond spot for the XR650r. But as you said, the CRF300 rally is so refined and easy to ride.
Thanks for watching.
Yeah, that big thumper really is a special machine in so many ways. I live in Kentucky, and it’s not possible to do a dual sport conversion here. Really enjoy your videos, new sub here! Thanks for all of your hard work!
i only believe in your adventure riding style.👍🏼
Haha... thanks mate 👍
My older-model Africa Single CRF250L is what mostly gets me out adventuring in wild places. Just strong enough to carry me and all the gear, just fast enough for the road, light enough for me to pick up, gets decent fuel mileage. Just needs some shop TLC after a rough riding season last year ❤
The CRF250L. is another great lightweight bike that can do it all. I bet after its TLC, it will be good for another year of adventure!
spot on shonky, I've been alone to Cameron Corner from the Gold Coast, down thru Broken hill and Victoria on my GS1200, fully geared for camping, on the way to CC after Tharminginda I went down around 12 times paddling in the bulldust, she's a big girl to pick up but absolutely enjoyed myself. You get a lot of time to think on these long rides, bike weight definitely played on my mind, to an extent I needed to get back on the black stuff. Brought a Honda CRF450X when I got home, kept the GS, the Honda was awesome in the trails but I ended up trading it in for the 300 Rally you have there, I don't miss the 450 power, it was too highly strung and the regular oil changes and difficulty starting (2011 carby) when I didn't ride it for a few weeks are what made me trade to the 300. Taken the Rally to mount Mee and had a blast, she tractored up the long rutty hills way better than my 450 ever did. I'm 66 so not getting any younger, I feel the 300 will give me many more adventure years compared to a heavy bike. The little 300 is an amazing bike, does everything really well, I've seen people selling DRZ400's and DR650's to buy these and they are totally happy with em. Great channel mate.
Hi Ken, thanks for your comments. It's great to hear others have had a similar journey to me and ended up with a smaller bike.. and even the mighty CRF300 Rally. I bet you'll be riding for a few more years yet, the 300 Rally, as you said, is just so easy to ride. I might have to get you to show me some of your local trails one day.
@@ShonkyProductions not much here on the Gold Coast, have to head towards northern NSW, sunny coast or inland. three things I forgot to mention about the Rally, I can't stop smiling when I ride it because it's so much fun, heading into retirement soon the Honda is cheap as on tyres, accessories, parts, service and petrol and lastly, Honda reliability (as you pointed out recently in a video) it will go for ever. thanks for the reply shonky :) , oh, and mine is signed by Dazza Beatie, so this alone will make me a better rider.
Spot on Sean. Since I got the CRF my 800 GS has been collecting dust and the small bike is my 'go-to' bike for all thing adventure riding
Thanks Oliver, the 800gs is a great bike for touring but the CRF would make off road so much easier.
But all depends how much distance and time travel you have to cover to get to your destination
I own a AT and a DR650. The 650 is the smallest I can go since I live in a city and have to ride tarmac to get to the dirt. AT AS is a beauty for long distance touring. Both are perfect for the right use
Rally 300 Ultimate 🦄 . So freaking happy with mine, love every second I ride it👊🏾😎
I feel the same way. I actually look for excuses to ride it, even just down to the shops for milk and bread!
@@ShonkyProductions it makes me smile every time I ride it
Sounds like you learned the hard way Shonky. I too have an Africa Twin and last years tour of the South Island showed my expectations were greater than my combined capability. Lesson learned. Your vid hit the nail on the head. Next month I'll be leaving the AT in the garage and taking the CRF Rally with heaps more confidence back down to the South Island, knowing I'll get where I've planned to go. With you and a couple of other 300 developers I have learned what and how to customise on my Rally 3 hundy. I did all the important mods, especially the suspension and nearly $4000 later its all go. I'm using a 68 litre rackless Giant Loop luggage system. The only downside to it is it would be convenient to have something separate rather than only the one opening. I've followed you from day one and you never cease to surprise me how interesting your vids are. Cheers and enjoy 2023.
Thanks my Kiwi mate, I'm glad to hear your CRF 300 is bringing you as much adventure enjoyment as mine is. I know what you mean about the Giant Loop luggage. It's sits really well on the bike, but is a little awkward if you need to get into it during the ride.
I'll be hitting you up for a guided tour if I get the chance to come over.
@@ShonkyProductions Big things have little beginnings Shonky. I don't know if you've clicked my logo and checked out my content. You could be surprised. There is potential in your suggestion. I'll watch this space
Go Kriega over Giant Loop, for the very reason you said - three separate compartments that are easy to get into!
I definitely rode my big bike less, as you said. Thanks for this video.
I Have Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX and it's amazing !! I love IT
Hi Sean /
My 2cents : after 42 years of Motorcycle RIDING >
from Africa Twin ADV 2018 m.y. to CFR300L Rally '22 m.y.=exactly the same / reasoning and thoughts RIGHT CHOICE
and I'm very happy now at 58 years old / and not least : the ease and the fun-pleasure of being able to go at 100 km/h even off-road and stop in a few meters .... instead of 200 meters //// You also learn to carry, the necessary baggage ONLY
AND yeah, it's extremely important (as in LIFE) !!!
Ride Safe & all Best !!!
Ciao !
Luca (Milan-Italy)
Hi Luca, great to hear from you.
That's another good point you bring up, the braking distance of a lighter bike. It truly does make everything easier.
Very helpful video.. thank you
In the 70's I had two-stroke 175cc, 250, and a big 490. More power was always more fun in the mud and dirt in the mountains of SW Virginia. But the larger engines always came with larger, taller and heavier motorcycles. Fast forward to year 2009 when my son bought a DR650 and I was his mechanic / test rider while he was overseas. Nice thumper, great low speed torque and plenty of enough power but it was too tall and top heavy for me even with several careful ergo mods. In 2012 I bought a KLX250S dual-sport. Only 300 lbs or so but also a bit top heavy and tall but its narrow seat made it easier to get my feet on the ground. Tip: the 'free' MCM valve timing mod made the engine way better for dual-sport riding. In 2014 I bought a Triumph Tiger 800XC triple, a 'real' adventure bike. The 800XC was an excellent road bike as the weight, size and smooth engine along with fine wind protection made off-road day adventures 100 miles away totally plausible. But again this bike was not only a bit too heavy at 470 lbs wet, but it was top heavy thus very awkward on some tight, steep mountainous fire roads. In 2018 I bought a BMW R1200GS with every option. Excellent quickshifter, steering damper, unique electronic suspension, monster engine, brakes, all-day comfort on highways, great sound, but way too heavy (about 575 lbs wet with crash bars) for steep mountainous trails I would occasionally ride. Picking that bike up out of a gully by yourself is a real challenge, I'm getting too old for that $^1t. So now I've downsized slightly to a KTM 890 Adventure (non-R), 470 wet but 105HP and a wonderful and predictable torque curve. The on-the-fly adjustable suspension is the best on and off-road ride I have experienced yet, it corners like a dream, the bike is not too tall, the stock seat is amazingly comfortable, the steering damper is perfect, the wind protection is great and the center of mass is very low due to the unique low-slung gas tank which also eliminates the need for aftermarket engine crash bars and endows this bike with quick handling but high stability on highways or on rough, rock-strewn dirt roads.- and the bike should prove to be (!) easier to pick up than many other 400+ lb D-S/Adv bikes. The 890 twin engine and tranny are near perfect with the engine having a mild-mannered Dr. Jekyll (under 5500 RPM) and a wild and crazy Mr. Hyde personality (over 5500RPM). Great fun. But I still ride the DR650 and the KLX250S enough to appreciate sweet spots in the design of small, medium and large dual-sport/adventure bikes. My PERFECT Mid-Size Adventure bike: 550-650cc twin, 55-70HP, 390-425 lbs wet, 21" front, 18" rear tubeless tires on spoked wheels, KTM 890 style low-slung gas tank and 32-33" tall comfort seat, quickshifter, steering damper, customizable engine & throttle management maps, bright, non-glare TFT dash with no tiny fonts (lookin' at you KTM). For lightweight designs, low C.O.G. gas tank design, great engine, exhaust, tranny, brakes, handling, comfort and high fun factor, KTM in 2023 seems best suited to design and market this dream bike. Make it reliable and moderate in cost for a premium bike. My son rode the 890 Adventure on interstates, byways and rough mountain trails - his appraisal was that he would gladly trade 50HP for a 50 pound weight reduction and keep everything else!
Brilliant Video I've just done similar gone from a 1200gs te Rallye to a Himalayan after 29 Motorcycles its the most fun I'm having on a Modern bike
Thanks, it sounds like you have discovered the fun and freedom of smaller bikes yourself. Good work and keep on enjoying your adventures.
Right on!
I recently had a bmw f850. Very good bike.
Ride around Brazil a lot and Argentina, specially in the Argentina desert.
I like the bike a lot but want a something lighter for off road, but want something good for road.
Here in Brazil we don't CRF 300 that would be great choice.
We have a xre 300cc that is kind of CRF but with cheaper parts, we have royal Enfield Himalayan 400cc and we have cb 500 x that is a crossover.
Not so sure yet each one to choose.
Xre probably is the best choice.
We will know in 15 days.
Great video and I generally agree with you but all depends of conditions, where you live and what are you planning to do with your bike. I definitely agree that you don’t need 170 up bike (similar to 300hp car) on streets. But if you need to cover 500 km to your destination you need the bike that can do it in comfort and some speed. In my opinion 650-900cc is the best choice. I used to have v strom 650 . It was great on road and pretty good off road but sometimes I was missing the power on highway. Fits r last 3 years I’ve been riding Tracer 900 and yes I’m missing 19” front wheel and ground clearance but on the highway and twisty roads it is superior. I still can do gravel and fire roads. Little bit slower though. But 90% of time in my case I’m in the road which is probably 90% of average Joe riding experience.
Love your presentation in your videos. Thank you. Side note, you may want to add a little more to your text overviews. This one says, "I answer three simple questions about downsizing." Would be nice for folks to see the three questions so that they can relate to them...and watch! Keep up the great work.
Hi B-rad, thanks for watching and for your critique... I'm still learning and value all feedback. I will update the overview and put more detail in future ones.
I am 71, an adventure before dementia rider and van owner. In both cases have gone the downsize route. My van is a Vivaro (Transporter size) and park up alongside motorhomes and all I lack is an indoor shower, which is no big deal, outside, or wet cloth. The huge upside cheaper/faster, but most of all I can go anywhere and get through to all sorts of hard to reach places. My main bike is an Enfield 350 Meteor and okay 2 up it isn't fast, but what's the rush, for me it is about exploring without a plan? Stop when we are tired, eat when hungry, find a B&B for the night. One concession...I wear a watch, sorry no one's perfect.
I still have my BMW GS. I now also have a KTM 690. Not much heavier than the Honda 300, but still has power for the highway. Not saying it is perfect. Time will tell. Love the channel. Best!
Thanks Tim. Sounds like you have a great pair of bikes to cover all rides.
Nice vidio and i totally agree on weight. The honda is still heavy for a 19kw bike, the Dr650 i think is lower on the low setting and the same kerb weight, that is the reason why i prefer the Dr.
Peace.
Thanks for sharing the video,I have the 300l for relatively short distance mainly to the trails and back, I also have a 2009 f800gs for long distance and light trails, I think the main problem is not the bike, it is not being honest with ourselves and not acknowledging our capabilities, yes there are guys who can ride the AT has it was a 250cc but those are pro riders, also riding is relevant to our age and health conditions, so eventually it will be a good idea to downsizing.
Thanks for your comment, you are certainly correct... we need to be honest with ourselves about our abilities to ride off road. I see a lot of guys coming to adventure riding from a road background and then realising that a lighter bike would suit their capabilities more. It sounds like you have two great bikes to cover all bases.
Pretty much nailed my thinking. When spring hits Canada, I'll be trading in my Vstrom 1000 for, most likely, a DR650. I pack a few kilos more than I should, and live on the prairies (1 1/2 hours to the mountains) so I think it will suit me better than one of the 300's. And kinda showing off that I can still score a brand new bush pig here ;)
Hi Terence, thanks for watching. The mighty DR650 is another great bike to downsize to. I actually was thinking about one for myself before I bought my CRF 300 Rally.
And the same weight but more power.
Great vid! I downsized from a VFR800x to a CB500X, and love it, and now I am looking to go smaller even again to a 250 or 300L, as now the lighter bike is opening up more “areas” to me, im wanting to access more and more, the versatility is greater. Also- if your friends have bigger bikes, you can give them your extra bag, as what’s a couple of kilos on a GS? 😂😂
Haha... I like your idea of having a "support GS" along on a ride. That "opening up more areas" is what I too really enjoy about the smaller bikes. No more wondering what's down that trail... just go and check it out.
hi, great video, look, i have a 250cc ¨neo retro¨ bike, from china, and sometimes i think it might be cool to have a 500cc or something like that, but , on the road, i have the pleasure to enjoying all the ride no matter what i have, and i think that is rhe destiny of the motorcicles, to enjoy them, no matter the displacement, only the use that you going to give it, and if it´s just enjoy, anyone is fine, good routes. 👍👍👍👍
Hey mate. Loving your videos. Very informative and no bullshít. Would be great if you could make a little video showing what kind of gear you wear for ADV/camping. Helmet, boots, gloves, jacket, pants etc. Thanks
Hi, thanks for the comment. That's a great idea... I am getting prepared for another outback trip, so I might just do that in the next few weeks.
I am considering keeping my Africa twin for longer touring trips especially 2 up and converting my SWM RS500r into a more dedicated off road tourer
That sounds like a great plan. Smaller bikes are definitely not the best for 2 up riding.
Back in the mid 1980s I owned a Kawasaki GPz 900, the beast of the time, and by 1990 I bought a Kawasaki ZZR 600 and then bought 600 cc road bikes fro that day forward, 600cc in my books were plenty fast enough and fun to ride.
My dirt bikes mostly consisted of Kawasaki KDX 200s, with the one Yamaha IT 490 and my last dirt bike was a Gas Gas 400, the 200 2 stroke was my favourite by far.
I started riding adventure bikes before there were even adventure bikes, a Kawasaki KLR 650 Tengai in about 1992, followed by a Kawasaki KLX 650 then 3 DR 650s and still currently own a DR 650 at the age of 62.
Moral of the story is I convinced myself way back when is I don’t need a big capacity motorcycle to have fun, mid capacity bikes work perfectly for what I need, I also own a Yamaha T700 and regret the waste of money I spent on it, the weight makes it not enjoyable as every time I stop it becomes a game of can I not drop it if I don’t get my footing right.
Sounds like you figured it out very early on. I've always enjoyed riding and racing smaller dirtbikes 125's, 150,s and 250's. Guess it took me a little while to realise that small is good in adventure bikes too.
Great video. Personally I'm a minimalist when it comes to DS/ADV bike and set up. I bought a brand new drz 400 and in 13 years put just over 64k miles/103k klm. I would say 70-80% of my riding is off road. Unfortunately a garbage truck ran over my bike, when it was parked. I'm looking for a new dual sport, something in the 300cc-500cc. If I can't find anything that I like , I will purchase a new drz400. I did test ride a so called mid size adv bike , and I felt like I was riding a elephant. It confirmed that a light dual sport is the way for me as it has been for all my years of riding a motorcycle.
Yes, the drz400 is hard to beat. Luckily you can still buy them new. Something like that with a bit more touring comfort would be perfect.
Downsized to a KTM 390 Adventure and I have no regrets. It helps that it is really reliable and mods are easy.
I’m just getting reacquainted with riding after several years not ride,& getting into adv. I’m starting out with a new Rally & are super excited
Great choice Tony.
I like power. I like good handling as well. In England we don't have off-road tracks all land belongs to private and council. The country lanes are very bumpy so for fast riding on adventure could be better and more enjoyable then other bikes.... 60%country lanes 5%light off-road and 35%motorways I dream about KTM 1090 and should fits to me or maybe AF1000.
I did I went from a Suzuki vstrom to my crf300 rally and very happy I did
Great work Matthew, are you missing the Vstrom at all?
@@ShonkyProductions no not at all to be honest while I had to v Strom I didn't ride as much like you in the video
@@matthewoutram1228 Well, that's good that you are riding more and enjoying the new bike. Keep it up 👍
I have a TDM900 and a crf300. I mostly use the crf300 ever since I got it. 1000 vs 17000 km. That says it all, pretty much.
I have never gone off the tar much and now I want to explore ghost and small towns in South Africa and my current bike is a Honda NC750XD that is fine on gravel but because of the road tires gets a bit troublesome in other places. So I am going to buy a Tiawanese Sym HNT200.
After 12 years of ADV riding around Australia I'm now onto my second WR250R and have almost racked up 200,00km between the two of them. I've had a million dollars worth of fun and enjoyed the reliability but I'm now opting for a two-bike garage. I've recently acquired the Taureg 660 and will soon get a 350cc enduro - something like an FE350 or a Beta RR350.
Although the WR250R is a good all-rounder; when I now reflect it becomes apparent that I outgrew it very early on and it has really held me back in developing my enduro skills not to mention it lacks creature-comforts and is unpleasant to ride on long trips. I enjoy both enduro riding and multi-day adventures on more easy going terrain. My plan is to use the 660 as a workhorse for multi-day trips/touring and use the enduro machine to continue increasing my skills and having a blast and also for exercise. It really all boils down to where you're at, what you want and how much money you can afford to spend.
Yes, adding an extra bike to the stable can certainly expand your riding potential.
The wr250r is a great trail bike but not a great enduro bike. Good luck with your new bikes... Enjoy!
Maybe if you get Tuareg 660 you won’t need another one…
You may well be right. I'm still undecided though loving the Tuareg thus far.👍👍👍@@richardhretczak536
I'm still enjoying riding your old Africa Twin but would definitely enjoy having a 300 in the shed with it, so I had the choice of which bike for particular rides I do. thanks for another good video.
Hey, great to hear from you. The Africa Twin is a great bike and that one took me on some great rides. We might have to catch up and do some back to back comparisons!
Great video…Im contemplating n downsizing from my Versys 1000 to at KTM 390 adventure …the fear of encountering off road and bad patches is always looming large on me every time I’m out on a ride ….especially when you’re on an unfamiliar road ….but to let go of such a beautiful machine is a very difficult decision
Maybe it’s just to much downsizing…
I have just replaced my 790 Adventure R for at 701 enduro. I will adventurise it with a rally tower for better placement of the navigation and some wind protection. I have done so out of financial necessity, but I have a feeling that it may be the best bad luck I have ever had. As it isn't even registered yet I have only ridden my 701 around my garden, and that is fun?! It wouldn't be on the 790.
The 790 is the best twin adventure bike in my opinion, but I really feel that the 701 could be the best adventure bike for me!
Great video!
That's another good reason... Financial.
The 701 is a great bike, it sounds like yours will be setup very nicely.
I just bought a new KTM 500 exc-f and I'm glad I went for a smaller bike. It suits the shorter trips and type of riding I do. I un-corked it and don't feel like I had to compromise on power now.
My mate just bought one too. He'll be turning into a lightweight adventure bike, so keep a lookout for a future video on it.
To me the question is mostly about price.. im young and lift weight very regularly so picking the bike up is fine.. BUT i feel like the big bike - almost 70% of the time you drop it, something breaks. And that something isn't 50$ like on a small bike. Its 150-300$... PLUS the bike is more expensive to start with. Same thing for the accessories.. a crash bar on a big bike is more expensive.. an exhaust is more expensive.. Luggage is more expensive.. etc.. And i really hate the feeling that the bike will break if i drop it.. i want to be able to make mistake and learn. Your channel is for sure making me think a lot about that honda!
Hi Alex, thanks for watching. You bring up a great point that I didn't mention... The cost savings of a smaller bike. They are cheaper with almost everything from fuel and tyres, to accessories, and even as you mentioned... repairs. 👍
I think it all depends on the split uses of your bike and how far you need to travel to get off road and what exactly off roads means then. If I was travelling 4hrs highway to do logging roads and 4wheeler trails (not bogs or deep mud!), then it's the AT all day. If I had a quick trip to get off trail or I was trailering my bike, then I'd probably look at something lighter with good suspension.
That is very true Andrew. Your own personal riding areas and style will dictate if you need to downsize or not. I am lucky that there are great trails within 30mins-2hrs from where I live, but I do sometimes travel 3hrs+ to get to other riding areas. On those longer transport sections, for sure a bigger bike would do it easier, but as I like to explore off the main trails, I would be restricted where I went on a bigger bike.
You also bring up another point about trailering bikes to a riding area, I also do that when the riding area is days away from where I live.
Bravo pour cette vidéo. Je partage totalement vos propos et je suis moi-même passé d'une R1250GS à une CB500X. Je ne fais pas de off-road pour l'instant et je me content de sillonner les petite routes de France et parfois les chemins praticables. Je ne regrette en rien mon choix mais si je devais faire du off-road, je prendrai une moto encore plus légère que la CB500X. Parmi les inconvénients, j'ajouterai qu'en France, il est préférable de disposer d'une capacité d'accélération suffisante pour se glisser sans danger dans la circulation des voies rapides et des périphériques de grandes villes, et pour se dégager d'une situation dangereuse, ce qui arrive souvent. Mon analyse du marché m'a amené à considérer qu'une KTM 390 ADV par exemple était le bon compromis. Bonne journée !
Hi Eric, thanks for your comments. It sounds like you have figured out what the best bike is your you and your riding.
... CRF 300 Rally here. With the 550 ECU Stage 1, DNA filter, air box mod and Yoshimura RS4 full exhaust, it has all the power needed to do anything that comes my way. Also, Rally Raid Level 1 suspension front and back.
Jeff
Perfect 👍
Been riding off road for decades. Too many different bikes to count. In the last 3 years I went from Africa Twin As DCT, to a 450L made to light adv, and finally to a 300 Rally. The rally is virtually perfect for me and my riding. I really like the AT but for 80% of where I go I just didn't need that much bike, or didn't want that much. The 450L I just didn't even like, even with all the necessary upgrades. Yes the Rally has way too soft suspension but even that isn't all bad. I truely enjoy riding it! Easy and fun.
Yes, the 300 Rally is an almost perfect bike if you can get past the lack of power compared to bigger bikes. I enjoy riding mine too and look for any excuse to ride it.
@@ShonkyProductions . Yup. I'm heading home soon. I work out of town. Anyway, have $500 worth of goodies waiting for me!!
good vid...Kove 800 ticks my boxs... and although a little heavier the Macbor xr5 is pretty good... midway weight bikes are defiantly the right direction, even if main manufactures are ignoring this...
Changed from an AT to a 250L and now on a KTM 500. Less weight the better!!
Going from my modded XR600 til a CRF300 Rally. On order for May delivery. Can't wait.
I had an XR600 from 1989 (bought used, a year or two old) until the late 90s. Awesome fun, but 100 km on the road and I was exhausted -- in my late 20s! Now I"m 60 and riding the 250 Rally 300 or 400 km in a day on a mix of tar, gravel, tracks, beaches is a pleasure.
Congratulations, I'm sure you will enjoy your new 300 Rally. It will feel much lighter and easier to manage.
@@ShonkyProductions Thanks. Also looking in to roadbooking. A friend has done some amature Dakar stuff and a small roadbook community here in Norway.
@@BruceHoult yes, the whole thing is bone shaker and have to kick start it to book! (Starts fist kick though) I have crf450 forks and FCR carb and host of other mods, but just tired og constantly fixing it. Needs new rings and new stator.
@@no66 once I got the hang of starting it, I could "kick start" my XR600 with my hand! At least if it was warm. Decompression lever helped a lot.
Good video. And I have thought about it. I have DrZ and take that on the trail and single track but I also have street FJR1300 and Want to trade it in for Africa twin. The AT will be use for mainly fire roads gravel and dirt roads with what ever adventure those may bring. I will not be doing single track with. So I guess maybe get two bike if you can
Exactly! You can cover all bases with two bikes and pick the best bike for each ride. I hope you get your AT soon.
I've downsized from a street triple 675 to a cb300r, main thing being I was going to get myself in trouble, the cb300r suits my style of riding more
That's another valid point... more power can sometimes get you into more trouble. Either physical trouble or financial trouble from speeding fines!
I also went from my CB400 to an MT09 and back again, I realized that I can have fun and have a great sounding bike without doing 100kmh all the time.
I went from a CB400 to a Z900. Loved the CB. Such a quality little bike. I'd have one still if not for the unfortunate fact that they're physically just too small for me. Hence I'm now back to the CRF300, dual sports have the legroom without the stupidly big engine.
The Z looks and sounds great, but riding it I was either bored or scared, not much in between. Bored because it's the kind of bike that feels slow until it's pulling 8k rpm, and scared because even in 2nd or 3rd gear that's fkn fast for city riding. And getting out of the city onto our crap Aussie roads, that "taut sportsbike handling" is actually just a miserable (and even more terrifying) experience.
i went from a 2016 AT to a 2021 701. i dumped the AT alone, in the mud and spent 2hrs trying to get it out. nope. had to hike for help. that put an Albatross on my shoulders and never enjoyed it after. The 701 is a vastly superior machine for real adventuring and riding alone.
I have a 300l Rally with full blown Rally Raid, CBR cams and intake boot, and lots of other mods. I am currently looking at an Africa Twin, Tuareg, or maybe holding out for a Honda TransAlp. Here in the US, especially in Texas, destinations can be hours of flat interstate away. 75mph-80mph speed limits with traffic flowing around 80-85mph means you are at risk of being run down on our highways and interstates on a smaller displacement bike. I will keep both, as the Rally is amazing for hitting single track and scooting around town, but I need more power to get me to further destinations or having the wife ride with me into town for a date night.
Hi Marco, I can totally understand that. Here in Australia our speed limit is only 70mph (110 kph) and the bike can do that.. with a little left for over taking. The new Tuareg looks great, but as you said, the new Transalp might be the pick. Either way, enjoy your new bike and having options is always great 👍
@@ShonkyProductions Well it probably doesn't help that I am 6'3" and 118KG. Poor little Honda has a hard life 😂
Hope Australia and the USA get that TransAlp eventually. Honda will be missing out on sales in the middle weight ADV segment.
300 is too weak for me. Riding WR450F on local tight trails, but DR650 is my go-to bike for long (ish) adventures. I think that old trusty DR650 is the sweet spot in terms of weight/power balance, although I'd be pleased to have 600 twin for her with a bit more power (60ish bhp) and much less vibrations.
Yes, I agree... the 600cc seems ideal for what we want.
I'm picking up what you're putting down. I don't miss my Tenere one bit.
Light is right 👍
I came down from midsized dual sports into a 250 Rally. I enjoy it more than I thought I would. Light, flickable, easy af on me and my wallet. Freeway is doable...my previous bikes weren't exactly armchairs at 110 anyway.
That's it exactly! Lot's more fun. No worries about getting stuck and not being able to lift it.
So true, i have change my DR650 for a XR150L and i am happy. Less drops because of the weight (i am riding alone). Less effort in technical stuff, by far. A lot better for climate change (2,7 L/100km). Same bottom comfort (stock XR vs DR's Seat concept). But i loose 10 km/h on cruising speed (90 vs 100).
Sounds like a great deal to me... -10kph for much less weight and a lot more fun! 👍
I have a Tenere 700 which I ride mostly on road and would happily downsize to a 400 or 450 but not as far as a 300. I'm still waiting for any manufacturer to make a 450 that's dirt capable and comfortable on long road trips.
Yes, that's what a lot of us are waiting for... something in then 400-500cc range with good servicing intervals and comfortable on long road sections.
Just wrong choice of Tenere 700 if you’ve been riding mostly on roads V Strom 650 could’ve been much better choice.
@@richardhretczak536 but the V-Strom is nowhere near as good looking as the Tenere.
Moved from a crf 250 rally to an 850 GSA. I miss the Honda a lot for all the reasons stated. Main drawback is 2 up riding is not a practical possibility with gear on a small bike. As great as all the accoutrements of the bmw are , I don’t really need them.
Sounds like you made the right choice for your type and style of riding. There is no one correct answer, we all need to decide what suits us the most for what we want to do.
I have a KTM 1190 and a KLR650, The main reason I keep the KTM is because I live in an area where it takes around 4 hours to find dirt roads. so it's hard to ride this small bikes to get there, but yeah I enjoy lighter bikes off road more than a full adventure bike
I can fully understand that, you need to pick the right bike for you a where you ride. Sounds like you have bikes to cover everything.
I dreamed for years of getting an Africa Twin, then I sat on one. It's just too much bike for me, and I'm not a little fella. I'd been riding a Royal Enfield Himalayan, but it felt underpowered and slow on the highway. I've found what feels like my sweet spot with a KLR650; as much power as I need without being too big to manage in the sketchy stuff.
Get V Strom 650. It’s even better. Or Tuareg 660
Spend less time searching through your gear if there is less of it to start with. I miss the power & speed of my previous big bikes (950 adv, 690E, 955i) but, even travelling with blokes on road bikes, I don't get left too far behind. And I am far more likely to search out the back roads & tracks.
That's what I'm finding too... No more riding past a side track and wondering what's down there.
I bought a Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES for my first bike, drove it for 1,880 miles knew it was too big to want to take off ride so I decided to downgrade. I would have gotten a KTM690 for the extra power but decided to just go with the KLX300 instead been riding it to work, I do miss the power but I do love how much lighter it is, will be going off road soon! After riding more if I feel I need it going to add the rally package and larger fuel tank to make it like the CRF300L Rally.
Owned the Twin for a few days over a year, just made the trade 3 weeks ago.
The KLX300 is another great lightweight bike. 👍
Wrong choice from the beginning considering AF as a first bike…
@@richardhretczak536 I didn't know any better my friend went with me and he was the one that got me into biking and didn't say it'd be a bad idea.
Do as I did, have a KTM 1290 S and Yamaha XT250, the best of both worlds. In the western USA, it's a very long way between town
That's a great way to cover all bases!
I have an R1200GS, the standard issue middle aged bloke bike. I'm selling it because I've recently bought a Himalayan and spending all my time riding that. Smaller bikes are where it's at. The trend towards more power and more complications and electronics in the top end of adventure bike market has made them far less suitable for adventure riding, in my opinion. I need to have a fair chance of repairing my bike at the roadside, not requiring a specialised part and a week's stay at the main dealer's. The himi is also more fun. LIghter, more nimble yet still fits a taller rider.
A great decision. I can fully understand your reasoning. I enjoy riding a smaller bike to it's limits, rather than a bigger bike and never using it to its potential.
I own both a large adventure bike and a small adventure bike. that way I do my long distance mostly road touring on the large and my mostly dirt back roads on the small bike. if I could only own one it would a mid size and that would compromise both.
Problem is that middle is still always a compromise.
Sounds like you have all roads covered 👍
I’m 6’5” 300 lbs and have owned both the Africa Twin DCT and the 250 Rally. I’m selling my Africa Twin to go back to the 300 Rally as on the island here in Philippines I cannot justify the power of the Twin it is seriously over kill. The Rally kept things fun and I was more confident. If and when the 2025 390 Adventure comes out with the more off road design maybe I’ll try that again as my last one just didn’t have the ground cleaned for me, but the power was perfect. My biggest complaint with KTM is quality Honda by far is better per quality and dependability.
This helped a lot to sway my thoughts to sell and downsize again.
I'm glad I helped you re-think the Africa Twin. I loved mine too, but I couldn't take it where I wanted to go because of its weight. On my CRF300 Rally, I can go anywhere and not worry. I too have more fun on the smaller bike.
I did the same thing but to a WR250R. The AT was just too much for me off road to have fun.
I agree A smaller bike is better for off road I ride the 1200 trium tiger But my idea of adventure Is traveling the US Vacationing from one spot to the other And I enjoy the open road I now days occasionally go off road So I won't a bike That can handle on road or off road But because I mainly stay on the blacktop I like my bigger triumph But when I want to go off road I take the Honda rally 300😊
It is good that you have a choice but generally Tiger 1200 is way to big and heavy.
I'm thinking opposite. I ride 2016 CRF250L since, well, 2016.. and mostly ride either offroad tracks that end up 100-150km day for which the bike is perfect for, perfect. However more and more often I enjoy doing adv rides that are 300-400km per day and those are just asphalt and gravel. Only up to 400 per day as I cant suffer through more and after 300km its suffering due to lot of fast roads and sitting.. Bike can do it, but I always feel like I would have a nicer time on fast transport sections with more powerful and stable at speed bike, comfier seat, bigger tank, and wind protection, to be able to comfortably go 110-120 km/h, maybe even extra safety of abs for rainy day, and any bike can do gravel.. But I also don't want to go too big as I ride mostly alone and need to be able to sort out potential offroad situations on my own. So my current replacement top picks are losing the offroad bit except for gravel and giving CB500X a chance which would definitely make long days way more comfortable, or to keep both aspects of riding and wait for new KTM 390 Adventure (the one spied with 21-18 wheels and vertical lights with rally tower, looks rival to crf rally), or just go with CRF 300 Rally and immediately buy new shock, seat and puig removeable windshield extender which makes it quite pricey all added up and it still wont be near CBX comfort level at 120 km/h... Nature of the bike, big sail of a mudguard and bike being light, its visible in your video that 120kmh is not completely planted though acceptable..
I can understand your perspective, for the type of riding you are doing it does make sense to have a bike that can cover the longer distances more easily, especially if the trails you are riding are nice gravel roads etc. The CB500x is a great choice and I actually rode with John from Rally Raid when he crossed the Simpson Desert on one.
You are also correct that on a lighter bike, like my CRF300 Rally that riding on the freeway is not as smooth as on a larger, heavier bike. It will be interesting to see what the new KTM390 Adventure is like.
I don't have a big ADV bike but I guess I would be happy with my the smaller ADVs such as CRF 300l Rally or CRF 300 l
Big bikes have their place, especially easy off road touring. Smaller bikes like the CRF 300L or Rally make life easier when off road and exploring further off the main trails.
I threw bags on a zx-14r once. Good times, not so good in the gravel. Maybe a 450 or a 690 will come next.
Gotta love the kitchen sink! 😂😂🤣🤣😂😂
I already downsize from a r1200gsa to a tenere700...still would like to cruise at 130km/hr n the T7 is perfect.
Its been a long damn time since i enjoy riding.....should hv done it way sooner than it
2:30 camping and bikes …👍🏻
I downsized from an R1200GS to a KTM 390 ADV. It’s so much easier offroad and also in the tight twisties. The only thing I miss about my GS is highway comfort and the huge amount of torque. I have to shift a lot more on the 390. But it’s quieter, lighter, and more fuel efficient.
Hi Nathan, thanks for watching and your comment. You experience is the same as mine, the smaller bike makes riding so much easier and the only place you really miss the bigger bike is on the highway. I knew going into the smaller bike that highways might be a little slower, with a little more gear changes for the hills etc, but I soon got use to that and now enjoy my rides so much more.
Have the same but find it slightly underpowered on the road, for me the 890R is slightly overpowered so really hoping that KTM release a single 690 ADV R soon. I think that would be the power weight sweet spot for me personally for dual sport riding. Are you not finding yours slightly underpowered on the road too?
@@Ben-nj3lv No, not really. It will sit at 75 mph all day long. I'm 175 lbs in my riding gear, and all my camping gear is very lightweight. No issues. It obviously doesn't have the grunt of the 890 or 1200, but it is completely adequate.
@@BoilerRealm Mine cruises well at 75mph too, it just gets there a little it too slowly for my personal preference, mine is lacking some mid range ooomph in my opinion, going to see if a more breathable air filter cover & an ecu fill that gap and if not will wait ad see if KTM launch a 690 ADV thumper!
750-900cc is the best choice in my book. Even 500cc will do the work
ive got a Husky te630 -150kg - 6 speed box set up to travel good balance od power and weight and cheep!
I've stuck with my KLX 250 for a long time, and even that I've lowered the suspension as low as it will go, as I'm not into racing. I just want to explore, on something light enough that I can pick it up by myself, even with luggage on it.