10 Adventure Bikes That Promise An Adrenaline-Pumping Riding Experience

Adventure bikes, or ADVs as they are popularly known, are designed to pretty much do everything when it comes to your two-wheeled adventures. These are the SUVs of the motorcycle world and are designed for comfortable cross-country tours, as well as traversing rugged terrain. ADVs may be versatile and can certainly handle the occasional twisty road competently. But then, they aren’t as sharp and eager as sportbikes when it comes to pure performance and dynamics, even with the best sport-touring motorcycles. Yes, sport bikes, particularly liter-class superbikes, offer the very best performance, acceleration, and speed if that’s what you need.

If your primary use is long journeys, you’re best off choosing an adventure bike. But what if you also want the performance and dynamics of a sportbike and yet need the comfort and versatility of an adventure bike? Fret not because several ADVs promise to offer the ideal blend of long-distance comfort and entertaining performance. The following list is the ten most exciting adventure motorcycles that make over 100 horsepower and feature state-of-the-art tech like advanced riding modes, the latest riding aids, adjustable suspension, and other creature comforts. From radical-looking Husqvarna and Ducatis to luxury ADVs from MV Agusta, this list is a treat for adventure enthusiasts.

How we got our model selections: To compile this list, HotCars analyzed and scanned the product portfolios of all major adventure bike manufacturers. Once we had the list, we filtered them down to those that offer the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and features. We’ve chosen the ten most performance-oriented adventure bikes that provide the perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping performance and all-around capability. This list is laid out in increasing order of power figures.

10 Husqvarna Norden 901

Maximum Power: 105 hp

The Husqvarna Norden 901 stands tall as an adventure-touring marvel, embodying a fusion of rugged capability and refined design. Powered by a potent 889cc parallel-twin engine, its robust performance meets the demands of off-road exploration and on-road prowess.

2024 Husqvarna Norden 901 Specs

Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs

Boasting a sleek yet purposeful aesthetic, the Norden 901’s design reflects adventure with a modern twist, accentuated by its commanding stance and ergonomic excellence.

Noteworthy Features

• Sophisticated electronics package with multiple ride modes, cornering ABS, and quickshifter
• Adjustable suspension and rugged chassis
• High-resolution TFT display offering various functionalities and connectivity options for navigation and entertainment.

9 BMW F 900 GS

Maximum Power: 105 hp

The 2024 BMW F 900 GS promises improved off-road performance, better performance, and a bunch of other goodies, promising to make it a formidable adventure bike.

A larger and updated engine, upgraded electronics, new suspension, updated off-road features, and a lightweight plastic fuel tank, with a lower curb weight and a slimmer body with new ergonomics, promises to make the BMW F 900 GS a versatile ADV bike that will be equally adept at carving a twisty mountain road as well as tackling rough terrain.

2024 BMW F 900 GS Specs

Specs sourced from BMW Motorrad

A punchy new parallel-twin engine promises increased pulling power and faster acceleration to make the F 900 GS not shy away from pure entertainment when it comes to performance.

Noteworthy Features

• Multiple ride modes with cornering ABS and Dynamic Traction Control
• Additional packages offer more features and accessories.
• Four-valve engine with twin overhead cams and counter-rotating balance shafts

8 Ducati DesertX

Maximum Power: 110 hp

The Ducati DesertX could be one of the best all-round adventure bikes available right now, if not the best. It’s a high-performance ADV bike with exceptional performance and feel, and it is suited for both asphalt adventures and is equally at home when you decide to leave the tarmac behind. The Desert X is a more off-road-focused ADV than the Multistrada V2, which shares its 937 cc L-twin engine.

2023 Ducati DesertX Specs

Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs; Top Speed sourced from FastestLaps

Kayaba handles suspension duties with 46 mm forks at the front with 230 mm of travel. The rear gets a mono-shock with 220 mm of travel. With that kind of kit and Ducati’s punchy 937 cc and Testastretta engine, the DesertX has it all to perhaps challenge the best full-size ADV bikes out there!

Noteworthy Features

• Six riding modes, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, quickshifter, cruise control
• Massive fuel tank offers an unmatched range
• Fully-adjustable KYB suspension

7 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

Maximum Power: 113 hp

While the Multistrada V4 holds its ground as an impressive bike, it tends to be a handful for many riders. This is where the Ducati Multistrada V2 S steps in. Although not as extravagant as the V4, in practical terms, it matches its larger counterpart in capability.

2023 Ducati Multistrada V2 S Specs

Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs

Its lighter, more manageable build amplifies its appeal, a recipe for heightened enjoyment. Essentially akin to the older 950 S, the Multi V2 S inherits its virtues, making it challenging even for skilled riders to find faults. And ultimately, it’s a Ducati, so you won’t go wrong in expecting an entertaining performance, that’s for sure!

Noteworthy Features

• The Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO, a semi-active system rooted in Sachs suspension technology.
• Comprehensive electronics, featuring Ducati Cornering Lights, cruise control, up/down quickshifter, illuminated switchgear button surrounds, traction control, rider modes, and more.
• A proven Testastretta V-twin engine is now lighter and delivers smoother performance.

6 MV Agusta LXP Orioli

Maximum Power: 124 hp

The MV Agusta LXP Orioli is a tribute to Italian motorcycling legend and four-time Dakar winner Edi Orioli. The Cagiva Elefant Orioli inspires the new 931 cc, three-cylinder machine that rode to victory in 1990 and is expected to form the base for a new range of adventure bikes by the Italian manufacturer. Showcasing top-tier attributes within its segment, this motorcycle appears poised, at least on paper, to rival its competitors when embarking on a global tour.

2024 MV Agusta LXP Orioli Specs

Specs sourced from MV Agusta

The electronics of the LXP Orioli are supported by a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), which offers four dedicated riding modes: Urban, Touring, Off-Road, and Custom All-Terrain. There’s five-level traction control, with two levels for street, two specifically for off-road, and one for rain. Engine braking action is selectable over two levels.

Noteworthy Features

• Six-axis IMU, four ride modes, launch control, engine brake control, cornering ABS
• Turn-by-turn navigation, GPS immobilizer, 8-level traction control
• 7-inch full HD dashboard with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity

5 2024 BMW R 1300 GS

Maximum Power: 145 hp

The BMW R 1300 GS is the successor to the highly acclaimed BMW R 1250 GS, and it has been announced for the 2024 model year by BMW Motorrad. The new design, particularly the face, may have mixed reactions and polarized opinions, but the new GS promises to be the lightest and punchiest ever on any big GS ever. The new engine is the most powerful BMW boxer engine yet for the GS series.

2024 BMW R 1300 GS Specs

Specs sourced from BMW Motorrad

On the 1300 GS, BMW has focused on making the motorcycle sleeker and sharper, not just in design but also in its handling and dynamics. And then, there’s a long list of optional extras you will get with the R 1300 GS, which makes it difficult to ignore if you’re in the market for a full-size ADV.

Noteworthy Features

• BMW ShiftCam variable valve timing with dynamic throttle response.
• Evo Telelever and Evo Paralever suspension setup for tackling the harshest terrains.
• Comprehensive electronics suite includes dynamic brake assist, dynamic traction control, dynamic cruise control, and much more.

4 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro

Maximum Power: 147 hp

The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro may not be as popular as the BMW GS or even the Ducati Multistrada models. Still, it’s certainly one of the most under-rated full-size ADVs currently available. In terms of performance, handling, and technology, the big Tiger certainly has it all to take on the very best rivals in the segment.

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro Specs

Specs sourced from Triumph Motorcycles

The inline triple engine with the T-plane crank offers more than enough performance, and the sharp chassis gives it agility that makes it ride and handle like a much smaller bike than its rather tall and dominating size. For many an ADV rider, the Tiger 1200 Rally Pro may be overlooked by one of its rivals, but it certainly has everything to make it one of the best in its segment.

Noteworthy Features

• Active Preload Reduction makes it more approachable for shorter riders.
• Over 50 pounds of weight reduction from its predecessor makes it handle much better.
• Semi-active Showa suspension, shaft drive, state-of-the-art electronics, and a large fuel tank give it proper ADV cred.

3 Harley-Davidson Pan America Special

Maximum Power: 150 hp

Yes, it’s a Harley! The Pan America may be Harley-Davidson’s first venture into the full-size ADV segment, but it’s definitely got everything going for it. Who knew that Harley-Davidson could develop a well-balanced, performance-oriented, impressive full-size adventure bike! Sure, the looks may be slightly polarizing and not to everyone’s liking, but that aside, the Pan America Special delivers just as well as some of its closest rivals.

2023 Harley-Davidson Pan America Special Specs

Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson

Punchy performance, superb high-speed cruising ability, and impressive handling for a bike of its size make it a desirable adventure bike. And that’s not all. An elaborate electronics suite, semi-active suspension, and a long list of features make it truly impressive!

Noteworthy Features

• Flexible powertrain with superb performance
• Semi-active suspension makes the ride supple and composed
• Long list of electronic rider aids, including linked braking, TCS, TPMS, vehicle hold control, wheelie control, and much more

2 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

Maximum Power: 160 hp

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R offers a truly cerebral journey on two wheels that few motorcycles can rival. Crafted for conquering rugged terrains and traversing vast distances, every element of this bike exudes luxury. Yet, amidst its opulent design, the LC8 V-twin engine stands out as the ultimate star. KTM proudly boasts about its unrivaled power-to-weight ratio in the segment.

2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Specs

Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs

This claim is substantiated by its lightning-quick acceleration and remarkably intuitive handling, defying its substantial size. Furthermore, its imposing and commanding design sets it apart, making it a standout in the realm of adventure bikes.

Noteworthy Features

• High-performance, semi-active WP XPLOR suspension.
• Dual-cell, three-part tank that offers opulent fuel capacity while keeping the bike slim and centered.
• Cutting-edge electronics, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Motorcycle Stability Control, TCS, Motor Slip Regulation, cornering and off-road ABS, adjustable throttle response (Rally Pack), and Quickshifter+ (Tech Pack)

1 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally

Maximum Power: 170 hp

The Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally stands as the truest adventure motorcycle in the Multistrada V4 series. Packed with features that warrant boasting rights, this bike promises an unforgettable ride, whether on or off the beaten path. Its engine delivers ample power for everything from leisurely trails to high-speed Autobahn runs, its agility almost mimicking a sportier touring bike.

2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Engine Specs

Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs

Opt for the Rally variant if you seek an off-road beast — sporting a larger fuel tank, tubeless spoke wheels, a center stand, an enlarged windshield, an aluminum bash plate, and off-road-focused foot pegs. And this Ducati has enough performance to take on many a sportbike head-on!

Noteworthy Features

• Advanced electronics, electronic suspension, and rider modes offer a wide range of adjustability for all riding conditions.
• Cylinder deactivation at low RPMs for improved fuel economy and reduced heat
• Ducati Skyhook fully adjustable and electronically controlled suspension system that gives it superbike-like composure
• Brembo Stylema brake calipers with lean-angle sensitive ABS

Sources: Respective motorcycle manufacturers’ websites and pressroom. Motorcycle Specs.

Reference: TopSpeed