Small Bore Adventure Motorcycles: Embracing Versatility On The Trails

Adventure motorcycling has been dominated by larger displacement machines forever but times are changing and we are seeing a clear shift towards smaller bore bikes. Manufacturers are redefining the adventure riding landscape by introducing compact yet capable bikes tailored for exploration. This surge in smaller displacement adventure motorcycles, started with the KTM 390 Adventure a couple of years ago. Recently we got to see the new CF Moto 450 MT and Royal Enfield ‘s Himalayan 450.

The Rise of Small Bore Adventure Motorcycles

In response to shifting rider preferences and a growing demand for more approachable adventure bikes, motorcycle manufacturers are diversifying their portfolios.

Joining the league of small bore adventure bikes is the CF Moto 450 MT, offering an enticing blend of affordability and off-road prowess. With its focus on versatility and accessibility, this machine aims to attract riders seeking adventure without compromising on maneuverability.

The new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, building upon the success of its predecessor, is expected to deliver an optimal balance between power and agility, further expanding the options for adventure enthusiasts around the world.

Benefits of Small Bore Adventure Motorcycles

One of the primary advantages of small bore adventure bikes is their accessibility. These machines cater to a broader spectrum of riders, from beginners stepping into the world of adventure riding to seasoned enthusiasts looking for a nimble companion for their explorations. The manageable power output and user-friendly ergonomics make these bikes an ideal starting point for those venturing into the off-road world.

Nimble Handling and Versatility

Small bore adventure motorcycles excel in maneuverability. Their compact size and lighter weight allow for nimble handling, making them well-suited for navigating challenging terrain and tight spaces. This agility translates to versatility, enabling riders to seamlessly transition from urban streets to unpaved trails, expanding the scope of their adventures.

Cost-Effectiveness

Additionally, their affordability compared to higher displacement counterparts makes them an attractive option for riders seeking adventure without breaking the bank.

Beyond Small Bore: The 700cc Adventure Segment

While small bore adventure motorcycles gain traction, the 700cc adventure bikes occupy a distinct space in the market. Models like the Yamaha Tenere 700, BMW F 750 GS, and Honda Africa Twin 750 epitomize the capabilities of mid-sized adventure machines. Their higher displacement engines offer increased power and torque while maintaining manageable weight, making them ideal for longer journeys and more varied terrains.

The Future of Adventure Riding

The emergence of small bore adventure motorcycles represents a transformative period in the realm of adventure riding. Manufacturers' focus on accessibility, versatility, and affordability signals a shift towards catering to a broader audience of riders eager to explore the world on two wheels.

Whether cruising through city streets or conquering rugged terrains, the allure of adventure , inviting riders to embrace the versatility, accessibility, and thrill that these smaller displacement bikes bring to the table. The horizon of adventure riding widens, inviting enthusiasts to embark on journeys where the destination is secondary to the thrill of the ride itself.

Choosing The Right Adventure Motorcycle

When it comes to selecting an adventure motorcycle, the choices can be overwhelming. Whether you are planning a thrilling off-road adventure or a long-distance expedition, understanding your riding goals, skill level, and budget is crucial. Each of these factors plays a pivotal role in determining the ideal adventure bike for you. Our last post introduced you to the 3 best ADV bikes under $10K. In this guide, we will explore the key considerations for selecting the perfect adventure motorcycle that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Exploring new parts of the world off road is on one the most fun things you can do on an ADV bike.

What is Your Riding Goal?

1. Determine the Terrain: Consider whether you will primarily ride on highways, dirt roads, or rugged off-road trails.

2. Distance and Duration: Assess the average distance and duration of your trips to ensure comfort and suitability for long rides.

3. Purpose of the Adventure: Clarify if your adventure is geared towards exploring remote landscapes, touring, or participating in off-road events.

Choosing a bike that matches your riding ability is key to having a fun experience. Bigger is not always better.

What is Your Skill Level?

1. Riding Experience: Evaluate your proficiency in handling motorcycles off road, especially in challenging and changing terrains .

2. Off-Road Competence: Assess your expertise in maneuvering through rough terrain, including gravel, sand, and steep inclines.

3. Weight and Size: Consider if you are comfortable handling heavy and large motorcycles, especially during slow-speed maneuvers.

What is Your Budget?

1. Initial Investment: Calculate the initial cost of the motorcycle, including any additional accessories or modifications required for your specific adventure needs. A lot of ADV bikes need to be upgraded for heavy off road riding.

2. New or Used: Depending on your budget and your ability to work on your own bike there are a lot of good options on the used bike market.

   3 Best Adventure Motorcycles under $10K

Selecting the right adventure motorcycle demands a thoughtful analysis of your riding goals, skill level, and budget constraints. By carefully considering these three key factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and ensures a thrilling and enjoyable adventure riding experience. Whether you prioritize performance, comfort, or versatility, choosing the perfect adventure motorcycle will undoubtedly elevate your journey and create unforgettable memories along the way.

3 Best Adventure Motorcycles Under $10K

Are you on a tight budget looking to explore the world on two wheels? These three adventure motorcycles offer the perfect solution, allowing you to embark on epic journeys and conquer rugged terrain without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll explore the top three adventure motorcycles under $10,000, ideal for those seeking affordable yet exhilarating rides. From versatile off-road capabilities to comfortable long-haul cruising, these bikes are the best companions for your adventures without emptying your wallet.

Our personal favorite on this list of ADV motorcycles. The KLR 650 is a great and reliable bike at an amazing price.

Kawasaki KLR 650

The Kawasaki KLR 650 is a stalwart in the adventure motorcycle world, valued for its simplicity, ruggedness, and affordability. Priced just around $6,700, the KLR 650 is a top choice for those who want a durable adventure bike without the hefty price tag. Here's why it's a fantastic budget option:

• Bulletproof Reliability: The KLR 650's legendary reliability means it's ready to endure countless miles without breaking a sweat.

• Off-Road Ready: This bike excels on dirt roads and trails, making it perfect for the adventurer who craves off-road exploration.

• Easy Maintenance: The KLR 650 is renowned for its easy maintenance and robust aftermarket support, allowing for budget-friendly DIY upgrades.

• Comfortable Commuter: While it's a formidable off-roader, the KLR 650 remains comfortable for daily commutes and long-distance journeys.

Suzuki V-Strom 650

Starting at just under $9,000, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 is a legendary adventure motorcycle renowned for its versatility. This bike is equipped with a 645cc V-twin engine, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced riders. Key features that make the V-Strom 650 an ideal low-budget adventure motorcycle include:

• Exceptional Fuel Efficiency: The V-Strom 650 offers excellent fuel economy, allowing you to go the distance without frequent refueling stops.

• Comfortable Riding Position: Its upright and ergonomic riding position ensures long-lasting comfort on extended journeys.

• Capable Off-Roader: With optional accessories, the V-Strom can tackle various terrains and handle mild off-road adventures.

• Proven Reliability: Suzuki is known for its dependable bikes, and the V-Strom 650 is no exception, offering peace of mind for long adventures.

Honda’s lower budget option is a great entry way for riders looking for a solid motorcycle that will hold up on the trails.

Honda CB500X

The Honda CB500X is the budget-conscious adventurer's dream, retailing at approximately $7,000. Despite its smaller engine (471cc), this bike packs a punch with a host of features that make it a great choice for those who love to explore. Key highlights include:

• Lightweight and Agile: The CB500X is a nimble and lightweight adventure bike, making it a breeze to maneuver in urban traffic and on twisty backroads.

• Fuel-Efficient: Honda's engineering ensures that the CB500X is exceptionally fuel-efficient, keeping your running costs to a minimum.

• Great for Beginners: Its approachable power and responsive handling make it an ideal choice for beginners looking to get into adventure riding.

• Honda Quality: Renowned for reliability and quality, Honda motorcycles are built to withstand the test of time, giving you peace of mind during your adventures.

Conclusion:

Adventure motorcycling doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor, and these three motorcycles prove just that. Whether you're looking for versatility, ruggedness, or a manageable entry point to adventure riding, the Suzuki V-Strom 650, Kawasaki KLR 650, and Honda CB500X offer excellent options—all under $10,000. With these affordable yet capable bikes, you can set off on your next thrilling adventure without straining your budget. Happy riding!

If you are interested to learn more about the Kawasaki KLR 650 make sure to check our our off road review.

Mastering Gravel Riding: Essential Techniques for Off-Road Adventure Motorcycling

In today's adventure motorcycle off-road riding tip, we're going to delve into the art of riding on gravel roads. Whether you're exploring unfamiliar terrain or navigating dirt roads with loose surfaces and rocky obstacles, it's crucial to understand how to handle these conditions effectively. We'll provide you with three essential techniques to conquer gravel riding with confidence. So let's dive in!

1. Adjust Speed for Control: When riding on roads you're unfamiliar with, it's essential to adjust your speed accordingly. By finding a comfortable pace that allows you to maintain control over your bike, you can navigate the unpredictable nature of gravel roads more effectively. Abrupt braking can be challenging in gravel, and excessive acceleration can cause the bike to lose traction. So, prioritize control by adjusting your speed to a level where you feel comfortable maneuvering through turns and maintaining stability.

2. Seek Traction: To enhance your traction while riding on gravel, it's crucial to transfer some of your weight to the rear tire. Many riders make the mistake of bending their knees forward and squeezing the bike with their knees while keeping minimal weight on the foot pegs. However, this forward weight distribution reduces traction on the rear tire, hindering acceleration and stability. Instead, focus on the recommended riding position: balls of your feet on the pegs, toes turned inward, and drop your heels. This position transfers more weight to the rear tire, allowing you to gain traction when accelerating. As you drop your heels further upon acceleration, your feet will lock down, providing a tight and controlled grip on the bike, preventing fishtailing or loss of control.

3. Master Braking Techniques: When it comes to braking on gravel roads, striking a balance between front and rear brakes is crucial. Aggressive use of either brake can lead to loss of control. Maintain your index finger on the front brake lever at all times, especially while standing up. This position allows you to keep control while providing an opportunity to drag the front brake gradually. By anticipating turns and reading the terrain ahead, you can gently squeeze the front brake lever, transferring weight to the front tire and maintaining traction for a controlled deceleration. As you slow down, you can also employ the rear brake gently for additional braking power. The key is to avoid sudden and aggressive braking, ensuring a smooth and safe ride.

4. Mastering Turns on Gravel: Making turns on gravel roads requires caution due to reduced traction. Instead of leaning your body into the turn, focus on weight transfer techniques to stabilize the bike. As you approach a turn, keep your body centered on the bike while dropping the heel on the inside foot peg. This technique transfers weight to the inside foot peg, initiating a controlled lean of the bike without excessive body movement. This centered approach allows you to maintain balance and stability, making wider turns while minimizing the risk of losing traction. By mastering this technique, you can confidently navigate gravel turns without compromising control.

Conclusion: Gravel riding presents unique challenges that require specific techniques for mastery. By applying these three essential techniques, including adjusting speed for control, seeking traction through weight transfer, and mastering braking and turning techniques, you can elevate your gravel riding skills to a new level. Remember to always prioritize control and safety while enjoying the thrill of off-road adventures.

Exploring The Baja Peninsula - Enduro Adventure Ride

After years of hearing about the Baja motorcycle adventures, desert races and people living their best life on the beaches of Baja Mexico, my husband and I decided to head south of the border. Of all the motorcycles in our collection, we unanimously agreed that the ideal machines for this particular off road adventure would be the KTM 500 EXC and the Husqvarna 450 FE. 

We were unsure of the availability of accommodations, fuel, water, and food outside of the bigger cities and packed accordingly. Between our backpacks and saddle bags we carried enough supplies to camp and survive for 2-3 days off-grid and replaced our stock fuel tanks with oversized Acerbis tanks. As we headed across the border into Mexico it seemed the only worry we might have would be finding enough fresh water if we happened to end up in no man’s land for an extended amount of time. 

Maneuvering our way through Mexicali proved interesting and a tad dangerous due to the obvious lack of traffic laws. We had planned to stop for food and find a bank for a currency exchange before leaving the city limits. After several blocks, we decided to pull over in front of a chain of businesses hoping to find some lunch. As it so happened, we pulled up directly in front of a Chinese Restaurant with no other options in sight. Communication was non-existent but the food was spectacular.

Once back on our enduro bikes we forgot all about finding a bank and continued to roll out of town toward San Felipe. The roadsides were full of old double-track trails from previous races all lined with gigantic cacti. The pavement was in fairly decent shape but we were aware that wouldn’t last long. San Felipe turned out to be a lovely little city with a moto-friendly atmosphere. The street vendors and food options were endless along with the hotel choices. We settled in at the Don Jesus hotel and walked down to the seaside for some dinner. The streets were full of happy people riding and driving all makes and models of motorized transportation and the local discos and dance clubs were overflowing onto the sidewalks. It was a whole new world for us Wisconsinites. 

Day two is where the adventures began. Not far south of town, we began seeing larger cacti along sand roads in every direction and more old race courses. Several miles in we couldn’t help but turn down a few. We ended up on a giant mudflat that could rival the Bonneville Salt Flats, then found a forgotten beach full of bright-colored round stones, and eventually near nightfall came up on a small village in Gonzaga Bay.

There was no plan for the night or the rest of the trip for that matter, so we drove down a little gravel side road to the water's edge and found Alfonsinas. This hotel was right on the white sandy beach and had a full-service bar/restaurant on site with plenty of available rooms at a mere $70 per night. And, most of the staff spoke some English which was a great match for my extremely limited Spanish. 

The sunset over the water was incredible and the sea creatures meandering around the shallow water near the shore were plentiful.

When we woke in the morning we were greeted by several bikes pulling in for breakfast. As it turned out, this little place is a scheduled stop for several Baja moto tours. We met and made friends with several fellow riders and added a few must-see destinations to our list of places to visit.

One of the warnings we had heard over and over was not to ride at night and shortly after leaving Gonzaga Bay, we discovered why. Hurricanes have taken a toll on the roads in Baja over the years and occasionally the pavement just ends unannounced leaving giant cliffs between you and the rest of the road. There are multiple go-around options but if you were to come up on these areas at night it would be a sure disaster. 

First on the day's list of stops was the famous Coco’s Corner, sadly Coco has recently passed and I’m not certain what has become of his little campground and dwelling. When we arrived there were several other motos traversing the sandy gravel roads and Coco was inside waiting for his next visitors. A few minutes of chit-chat and several photos later we proceeded on heading his warning not to travel after dark. 

The roads had transformed into rough terrain at this point and we were shocked to come across a guy on a chromed-out HD bagger making his way toward us. He made it through several washouts before deciding to turn around and head back to where he had come from. The next surprise was about half a mile up ahead there was a large incline the road wound around and coming down it was an 18-wheeler. The two of us stopped and watched in amazement as the driver crawled his way down the hill and slowly crept down the road by us waving like a long-lost friend as he passed. I've witnessed some impressive driving skills over the years but this guy deserved a gold medal in CDL certifications, the road was dished out in places so badly that all his tires were almost never on the ground at the same time. 

Eventually, we came out onto a paved road for a short while before spotting a section of the racecourse disappearing into the desert plant life. My husband read my mind and turned onto it as I was saying, “Let’s go that way.” The whoops began almost immediately and continued through several banked curves. I discovered that my stock enduro tires weren't exactly the tread I’d prefer to have on this type of terrain but the faster I went the smoother the ride got. My husband learned that he had too much weight tied on back to effectively ride whoops without his bike kicking him in the rear. It was an extremely fun and entertaining afternoon at a pace of roughly 20-30 MPH. This ride was much slower than the 60-70 MPH pace recommended at breakfast by a former Baja 1000 race winner. As casually as suggesting what shoes to wear he had stated, “when you hit the sections of whoops, just nail it and once you reach about 60-70 MPH everything just smoothes right out.” ….Yeah, that's a touch beyond our riding abilities, so we mosied along at our snails' pace for the day.

During the next few days, we continued on in much the same way, turning here, turning there, wandering through the desert on and off of sand roads and single tracks. We were fortunate to find rooms somewhere each night and had excellent luck with fuel stations. We had to wait a few hours for gas to be delivered one morning in the Bay of LA and we fueled up from a tank in the back of a pickup truck at one corner station. Fortunately, we had made a friend with the former race winner because a few nights later we ran into him at a hotel and ended up needing to borrow some cash. Turns out cash is king in Baja and a lot of places do not accept cards. Luckily for us, our new friend spotted us some dollars until we could find service and Zelle him back the money as well as find a town with a bank and an ATM. 

We found ourselves on a long deep sand path one day that ended up leading to some ancient cave paintings and an old beach town called San Francisquito. As we began to see water up ahead, a very abused-looking lincoln navigator pulling a giant tank on a small trailer approached us. To this day I am still in awe that this vehicle makes the 90-mile sand trek from Guerro Negro to San Francisquito. The driver smiled and waved us to stop, all he said was, “Lunch?” My husband turned to me and I wasn’t really sure if this was safe or some kind of crazy ambush you hear about on the news. So I just said, “No thanks.” Then the guy again said, “lunch for two?” We hesitated a moment and then decided what the hell, and said, “Sure, yes, Ok.” 

The man pointed behind himself and said, “I meet you.” As we rolled by him we were chattering at each other via helmet intercoms discussing whether this was legit or not. Once we reached the end of the road we found several little shacks and what appeared to be some abandoned homes on the beach with a larger building that could possibly be a restaurant. I looked over my shoulder to see that the man in the Navigator had found a way to get turned around and was now pulling up in front of a house across the “street” from the restaurant. 

An hour later, there we sat under an old pavilion eating the freshest fish tacos on homemade tortillas with handmade guacamole and salsa and all of the Tecate beer and Tequila we could drink. The man's name was Lionel and he and his family had run this once-successful beach resort prior to the last few hurricanes. He gave us a shack on the beach with two beds and some generator-run electricity for the night. The neighboring building held a shower with cold seawater and a flushing toilet. 

After a few hours of swimming and strolling the beach, we watched a plane coming in for a landing on a rustic airstrip we were unaware existed. As we walked over we discovered that some other Americans had permanent RVs all set up and would occasionally fly in for vacations. Friends were introduced, drinks were had, and memories were made. 

Lionel insisted on making us breakfast and coffee before our departure knowing it was 95 rough sandy miles up to the next town. As we were packing up, we began talking over the fact that we had now eaten two amazing meals, drank a case of water, another case of beer, and a bottle of Tequila as well as had beds for the night with a toilet and shower, but hadn't paid a dime for anything yet. I was sure it was going to be a minimum of $300 American dollars for all of this just due to the fact that we were so far removed from any type of civilization and all of the goods had to be trucked in. Much to our surprise, when we finally asked Lionel for the tab he came out with a receipt that had a total of only $133.00 written on it. At that point, I had basically decided I was living right there on that beach for the rest of my life. 

Unfortunately, reality set in and we rolled our way down the next road to the next destination. This particular road had been known to cause flat tires in some of the local trucks,and as we traversed our way along it became apparent how. There were areas of sharp rock ledges poking through the sand in many areas. The views, however, made the risk worth it. The road would skirt the water and then wind into the hills, we passed a man on a bicycle traveling alone through the deep sand with fully loaded bags on either side of his wheels. Everyone has their own journey I suppose… 

It was getting to be a rather hot day and there was not much shade offered along this route, we finally spied a larger bush that would offer a bit of cover from the blazing sun. After parking and shredding some gear for a snack in the shade we began to hear a strange rumbling noise. The rumbling was followed by several loud bangs, then what could almost be identified as music. The man on the bicycle way out here actually made more sense than what we saw next. The noises were coming from what remained of a Ford f-150 that was traveling at a rather high rate of speed down this road which was barely passable on a motorcycle and being occupied by two smiling waving locals. Throughout the entire time we spent south of the border we never came across anyone who wasn’t happy to see us. 

This day came to an end at a hotel near the water where we found the host offering us fresh lobster and oysters for dinner to be washed down with Pacifico cervezas. The woman was very friendly and informed us that we should park our motos inside our room for the night to avoid any problems. There was a bit of a language barrier so we simply followed her instruction and rolled them inside.

A few more days rolled by as we meandered around the desert roads stumbling upon old Missions and churches. We had successfully washed the bikes and changed the oil in one of our rooms along with doing a load or two of laundry in the sink. It was time to head north from Santa Rosalia back through San Ignacio and eventually across the border. We hit the pavement for a few hours before coming across a side road that was calling our names. 

We began following a truck full of people down this roller coaster of a road until the truck would no longer fit around the corners and pulled over. As we continued, the road became wet and soon we were crossing over and riding down what was at one time a river but was now just a shallow stream winding down a valley. I found a tiny hot spring spouting out of a giant mineral deposit and we watched a coyote run down the road ahead of us before we made the abrupt climb up and onto a gigantic mesa that offered epic views. 

It had been decided that Alfonsinas was a must-stop before leaving Baja and our overnight turned into 3 more sunsets, several shrimp burritos, numerous beach walks, crab hunts, and sand dollar finds before we were able to tear ourselves away. Once we were rolling, it became obvious that something exciting was going on in San Felipe. Traffic was backed up for miles outside the city limits and there were all shapes and sizes of vehicles ripping through the desert on either side of the road. We had managed to land ourselves in the middle of the San Felipe 250 race weekend and there was not a room to be had in the city. Note to self, check the race schedules before planning a trip to Baja.

Luckily for us, we had almost 300 miles of fuel range and plenty of daylight left to make our run for the border. It had been an excellent 12 days well spent and after 265 miles of riding on our dirt bike seats, we were more than happy to see the sight of our van waiting for us in El Centro.

This story was provided by Jessica Lukens. Please make sure to follow her on Instagram to see more of her and her husbands amazing rides @motorambling.

If you have a great adventure motorcycle story that you would like to share please email us info@sedlakoffroadschool.com

The 3 BIGGEST Adventure Motorcycle Off Road Mistakes

In today’s blog we are taking a closer look at the 3 BIGGEST and most common mistakes we see in adventure motorcycle riders, especially when they are new to riding off road. At our Adventure Motorcycle classes we get a great variety of riders from level 2 and level 3 riders that are preparing for the BMW GS Trophy or the KTM Adventure Rally to riders that have minimal off road experience looking to learn the fundamentals and build confidence in our level 1 class.

Over the years we realized that there are 3 very common mistakes that even riders with more experience make. All three have a major impact on the control of the motorcycle and the overall riding experience. Often times we see riders with years of adventure motorcycle riding experience get away with poor form but they really wear themselves out and are on the edge of going down a lot. All 3 mistakes are easy to correct ones you know what you are doing wrong and what you need to focus on to fix them, so her we are breaking them down.

THESE ARE THE 3 BIGGEST ADVENTURE MOTORCYCLE OFF ROAD MISTAKES

1. Standing Position

A lot of riders tend to stand on their motorcycle in a very compromised position. They are trying to “squeeze” the bike with their knees so they bent their knees, push them forward, which then moves the hips forward. From their they find themselves too far in the front of the bike, so their upper body is leaned back and their elbows are tucked in.

WRONG POSITION! In this picture you can see how poorly this position distribute your weight across your adventure motorcycle. If you find your bike to be very nervous and “twitchy” when riding sandy section, this is why.

The fix starts at your first point of contact with your ADV bike at the foot peg. The foot peg is your first point of contact and it is also the lowest point of contact so you will have the biggest impact on the overall control of your motorcycle there. Make sure to ride on the balls of your feet and turn your feet into the bike. There should be no gap between your boot and the frame. This position will allow you to drop your heels, which moves your hips further back on the bike. Your head and chest stay forward with your elbows up and slightly bent. Now in this position you are covering 80% of your bike and can use the leverage of your legs to gain control. Stay flexible in your ankles and don’t bent you knees more than 10 degrees. Let the bike’s suspension do it’s job and absorb bumps and waves in your ankles. Elbows are slightly flexing so you are able to work with the front end of the bike.

RIGHT POSITION! This is where you wan to be on your bike. When you compare the two pictures, you can clearly see the difference and how much more control you gain by putting your feet in the right spot. It all starts at the foot peg, your first point of contact with your adventure motorcycle.

2. Inconsistent On The Throttle

This is a mistake that we see a lot of adventure motorcycle riders make especially in soft terrain. You want to make sure that you are consistent with your throttle delivery. Every time you are getting off the throttle the weight of the bike shits towards the front end of the motorcycle which makes riding softer off road terrain especially tricky. By staying consistent on the throttle you will stabalize your ADV bike and you can start building some momentum. At this point we always refer back to point 1 and controlling the motorcycle with your ankles and lower legs. Once you are ready to slow down or come to a stop, just make sure to decelerate slowly. Don’t just chop the throttle but roll it back slowly so the weight transfer to the front wheel is not so abrupt. The best way to practice this off road riding technique is in a nice open sandy area where you have a little bit of space to make mistakes.

Momentum is your friend when it comes to riding in the soft terrain. The more you stay consistent on your throttle the more your Adventure motorcycle will stabilize and bring confidence into you riding.

3. Taking Your Feet OFF The Foot Pegs

This is a very common mistake that comes from a lack of control of the motorcycle at your first point of contact (see mistake 1) which leads to a lack of confidence when the motorcycle starts moving around underneath you. Taking both of your feet of the foot peg means giving up the majority of the control of your motorcycle. You are now trying to handle a 450 lbs weight that is moving around underneath you just by holding on with your arms, which is pretty much impossible. As I’ve explained before the only time you are really in contact with your bike is from your foot peg up to your seat and then at the very top of the motorcycle you get in touch again at the handlebars. Adventure motorcycles are very hard to control from the top down so the more you can guide the ADV bike with your legs the easier it will be for you to ride off road. It’s very important to get comfortable with the bike moving around underneath you and keeping your feet on the pegs in order to keep control of your ride.

So these are the 3 BIGGEST mistakes that we see out of Adventure riders that come through our training. If you are interested in how to fix them with a couple very basic exercises, please watch the video below where we break the mistakes down and explain how you can become a better off road rider.

The California Backcountry Discovery Route - BDR

The California Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR) is a stunning off road motorcycle route that takes riders through some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the state. Spanning over 800 miles, the route starts in the northernmost point of California, near the Oregon border, and ends in the southernmost point near the Mexico border. Along the way, riders will experience a diverse array of terrains and environments, from lush forests to arid deserts, rugged mountains to rolling hills.

Riding long stretches of off road trails can be intimidating especially when you are new to riding adventure motorcycles. Make sure to spend some time on getting comfortable on your bike and learning the fundamentals of off road riding before taking on big adventures like the CABDR.

The BDR was first conceptualized in 2006 by a group of motorcycle enthusiasts who wanted to create a route that would showcase the best of what California has to offer. They spent countless hours researching and mapping out the best roads and trails, and in 2007, the first California BDR was officially established. Since then, the route has become a popular destination for adventure riders from all over the world, and is considered one of the best motorcycle routes in the world.

One of the things that makes the California BDR so unique is the diversity of landscapes it traverses. Riders will start out in the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, where towering redwoods and Douglas firs provide a canopy overhead. As they make their way south, the terrain changes dramatically, transitioning into the arid deserts of the Central Valley. Here, riders will encounter cacti, Joshua trees, and other desert plants, and will have the opportunity to see some of California's iconic wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and golden eagles.

As riders continue south, they will enter the Sierra Nevada mountains, where they will be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. This section of the BDR is considered one of the most challenging, as the road climbs to elevations over 10,000 feet, with tight switchbacks and steep grades. But for those who are up to the challenge, the rewards are well worth it.

As riders leave the Sierra Nevada and make their way into Southern California, the landscape changes yet again, with the route passing through rolling hills and vast open spaces. This is the perfect place to stretch your legs and open up the throttle, as the roads here are wide and winding, and the scenery is absolutely stunning.

Having your motorcycle and equipment prepared is one of the key ingredients for a successful BDR trip.

One of the things that makes the California BDR so special is the people you will meet along the way. From the locals who live in the small towns dotting the route, to the other riders you will encounter on the road, everyone is friendly and welcoming. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop at local restaurants, bars, and hotels, where you can sample some of California's delicious food and drink, and meet other riders who are also on the BDR.

Another thing that makes the BDR so appealing is its accessibility. Unlike many other motorcycle routes, the BDR is designed to be ridden on a wide range of bikes, from big adventure bikes to smaller dual-sport motorcycles. The route is well-maintained, with plenty of gas stations and other amenities along the way, so riders don't have to worry about being stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Our adventure motorcycle training curriculum will prepare you for every type of terrain that you will come across on your BDR adventure.

However, the BDR is not without its challenges. The route is long and demanding, and requires a good level of fitness and riding skill. Riders should also be prepared for the changing weather conditions, as the route passes through a wide range of environments, from hot deserts to cold mountain passes. And, because the BDR is not a closed course, riders will have to be mindful of other vehicles, such as cars and trucks, and watch out for wild animals.

Overall, the California Backcountry Discovery Route is an unforgettable motorcycle adventure that takes riders through some of the most beautiful and stunning landscapes in the state. With over 800 miles of diverse terrain, riders will experience everything from lush forests to arid deserts, rugged mountains to rolling hills. Whether you're a seasoned adventure rider or just looking for an exciting motorcycle trip, the BDR has something to offer everyone. It's a journey that will leave an indelible mark in the minds of riders and they'll forever cherish the memories made. And the experience will make them want to ride it again, in the future. So, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime on the California BDR!

If you are interested in setting off for your first BDR adventure but you don’t feel quite ready yet, consider signing up for one of our Adventure Motorcyle classes. You will learn all of the necessary fundamental off road riding techniques that will help you along the way when riding in challenging terrain.

Best Dirt Bike For Beginners - Where To Start?

If you are new to dirt biking or you have kids that are really interested in getting on a bike but you don’t know where to start, we are here to bring some light into the dark.

Dirt Bikes are FUN! Going riding is a great activity that can bring a lot of satisfaction to your life. It is also not a cheap hobby. Especially the you are getting started you are looking at the expense of buying a bike, all the safety gear and equipment and on top of that you have no idea on where or how to ride your new motorcycle.

The Honda CRF 250 F is a great motorcycle for adult beginner riders.

What is the right dirt bike for me?

The answer to this question depends on a couple of different factors. First you need to look at your budget and how much you want to spend and then decide if you want to focus more on track riding or got out trail riding and/ or enjoy some weekends in the desert. If you are completely new to the sport and don’t know where to start we always recommend to start with a trail bike. There are dedicated trail bikes available from most manufacturers. The most accessible once here in the US are the Honda CRF F range, the KAWASAKI KLX range or the Yamaha TTR range of bikes. These start with the little 50 cc kids bikes and go all the way up to 250 cc sometimes even a 300 cc bike.

The performance on this bikes is limited. They are not the most powerful dirt bike around and the suspension is not really set up form big jumps BUT they are the perfect dirt bike for beginners. You won’t have to worry about the motorcycle being too powerful to the point where it gets you in trouble and the seat height on these trail bikes is a little bit lower which helps you gain confidence by being able to get both of your feet on the ground easily.

The other big benefit is that they are very simple motorcycles and are therefor very easy to maintain. You can get these bikes brand new between $1500 and $5000 depending on the size of bike you choose or you can find them at a good 20 to 30% discount used. Between the reliability and the fact that they usually don’t see big upgrades from the manufacturers for 10 plus years, trail bikes hold their value pretty well and you are able to ride the bike and learn how to ride properly and then sell it at a great price which makes it the perfect entry point into the sport.

The KAWASAKI KLX 110 is a great beginner bike for kids age 8 to 12. You have the option to choose between a semi automatic version and a clutch version which allows young riders to learn how to use a clutch and shift gears with ease.

What about safety gear?

As I mentioned earlier, after the bike getting all of the proper riding gear will be your second biggest expense. Make sure you invest in some good gear. As a beginner you don’t need the top of the line equipment but having a proper gear set up will keep you safe and build confidence in the case that you do have a crash. A full set of riding gear consists of a helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, jersey and pants, knee guards and a chest protector. If you are not sure where to shop for all of your new gear feel free to sign up to our Newsletter to receive great discounts on everything you need.

If you are buying a dirt bike for your kid make sure you purchase a motorcycle that fits them NOW. One major mistake people make is buying a bike that is too big and powerful with the mindset that their rider will “grow” into the bike. Chances are they will not enjoy riding the dirt bike and lose interest in the sport quickly.

Where do I go to ride my dirt bike?

You have your new bike and you have all of the gear, now you need to find a place to go and ride. Trail bikes are not street legal so you have to go and find a Motocross track or OHV area. A simple google search will show you the closest riding area and the times that they are open. Now when you get there you might look at the other riders jumping and doing wheelies and feel a little bit intimidated. Remember that will be you in a year or two as long as you follow the right steps. Find a nice open area with enough space and ideally no other riders around and just start riding around in circles nice and slow. Get a feel for your dirt bike, the brakes, the weight transfer and first and foremost what it is like to ride off road. Congratulations! You are now a dirt bike rider! Now all you need to do is keep practicing and working on your skill set. The best way for you to get started is by investing in a riding course with a professional instructor. A lot of them start at $150 and with in a couple of hours you will learn all the important fundamentals needed to ride your dirt bike and have fun. It is always a lot harder to get rid of bad habits later on so the sooner you can get a professional to guide you in the right direction the better. A good instructor will also be able to help you set your bike up properly and make sure it is good to go.

Now if you are not sure if you are ready to make the investment of buying a dirt bike and all the safety gear with out knowing if you even enjoy riding, we have the perfect solution for you. Our Day in the Dirt provides you with a rental dirt bike, all the safety gear and a professional instructor for the day. This way you can give dirt biking a try and at the same time enjoy the guidance of a professional instructor. During that session we will be able to advice you on what dirt bike might be a good fit and which ones to avoid before you go out and make the purchase.

Enduro School San Diego

Our San Diego based Enduro and Dual Sport courses are getting busier every year. If you have been wondering what to expect or what you learn at one of these full day Enduro training sessions you will find all the answers here.

Our curriculum is based on Daniel Sedlak’s 25 years of racing experience. With a a 10 year professional career in Motocross and Enduro that took him all around the world he has a good feel about the fundamentals that are needed to make a good Enduro rider. All of our instructors have worked with this curriculum for multiple years which allows us to provide a great quality training across the different groups of riders. Everyone of our Enduro School has two groups of riders. Group 1 is for riders that are new to riding off road and look to learn the fundamentals and group two is for more advanced riders/ racers that are looking to build up their confidence and speed.

All of our Enduro trainings are limited to 15 riders total to allow for two groups of 7 to 8 riders in a training session.

Our training are consists of five specifically build trails that each focus on different Enduro skill sets. Both groups get to train on all 5 trails just at different times throughout the day. Initially we start out on some very basic training loops in order to warm up and focus on the fundamental body position that will make it easier for you to rider more technical terrain later. The goal here is for the riders to be able to fully focus on improving their form and position on the bike without having to stress about the terrain. This loop also allows us to take a look at everyones bike and suspension set up. Often we are able to spot little set up improvements that will help settle your Enduro bike into the trail a lot better.

All of our Enduro trails have options to be more or less challenging depending on the Enduro skills we want to focus on.

We keep a training rhythm of 45 minutes on the trail followed by a 15 minute water break before we move on to the next training loop. This allows everyone to get plenty of seat time to focus on the various techniques that we teach

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

You might say , well I’m not a racer I don’t need the training. Most of our clients aren’t racers. The majority of riders that join our training events are recreational Enduro and Dual Sport riders that are looking to improve their skills, grow their confidence and become better, more efficient riders. After a full day of training and riding on some great trails you will leave with improved riding technique and 15 new riding buddies that you can meet up with again in the future. We make our training accessible to all riders. We have participants that rider a Suzuki DRZ 400 or a KAWASAKI KLX and we have participants that ride a Six Day Edition KTM Enduro bike. We gurantee that we will have the right group for you to improve your riding in a low pressure environment.

Enjoy our private trails while you sharpen your skills and become a better rider.

Interested in joining us? Check out our upcoming classes here and sign up for one of our courses.

Is Electric Dirt Bike Racing The Future

At the end of April 2022 I had the exciting opportunity to be the co organizer of the first ever CAKE One Design electric dirt bike race in California. CAKE held one of these events in Sweden in 2021 and is looking to spread the message of sustainable, electric racing across the globe with multiple events in different countries this year.

I’ve been a fan of electric motorcycles since I got to ride the ALTA back in 2018. Since then I have had the pleasure of riding all sorts of different electric bikes. Some are more off road and track friendly than others, but overall I enjoy the feeling of riding electric bikes and the many advantages they provide. Back in 2019 I had the opportunity to ride one of the CAKE Kalk bikes with one of their sales reps and began communication with the team at CAKE to see if we could come together on a project. Fast forward to fall of 2021 and I was approached to help make their first ever US based event happen. The goal was to find a unique location that can provide easy access and make for good racing. The choice fell on the Del Mar Arena at the Fairgrounds in Del Mar. Over the years different promoters organized all kinds of motorcycle events in the area and it was now time to bring in 16 electric bikes and drop the gate.

Electric dirt bikes get a lot of flack on social media. Uniquely designed products like the CAKE are not everyones cup of tea and I get that. When I first saw the bike I was intrigued, yet not 100% sure what it was supposed to be. When you ride the Kalk model you instantly realize that it is not a “normal” dirt bike. I don’t have a lot of mountain bike experience but from what I hear it also doesn’t feel like your typical mountain bike. It is it’s own category within the two wheel world and I think that’s really cool! What excites me the most about the upcoming trend of electric motorcycles are the different concepts that are being explored and a lot of different ideas that are being turned into reality. Obviously not all of them are great concepts and a lot of them will fail but for open minded riders, we are in an amazing time where we get access to prototype bikes that will shape the future of the sport. In 1997 when Doug Henry won a Supercross on a four stroke, not a lot of people would have guessed that less than 10 years later there would barely be any 2 stroke motorcycles lining up at the Pro races anymore. I’m not saying that the electric bikes will replace the current four stroke motocross bike BUT anyone who says there is no place in racing for this new technology clearly hasn’t ridden an electric motorcycle.

The first thing that comes to mind when people talk about electric mobility is always the environment. A lot of different arguments on both sides of the spectrum with enough material to write an entire book on the matter but one of the main things that is almost never brought up is PERFORMANCE. I personally would choose an electric bike just based on superior performance. The instant torque, the lack of shifting and clutching, the minimal amount of maintenance required in order to keep the bike running. The first time I rode the ALTA MXR I was suprised how good the bike was for an early stage electric bike. We had the ALTA dual sport bike and got to ride some really fun Enduro trails with the battery lasting for almost 3 hours. I have done a lot of riding and training on the Zero off road fleet and on many occasions we were able to complete a 6 hour training day in tight, single trail conditions with out having to recharge the battery. There is definitely room for improvement on the range of electric dirt bikes, especially when the terrain opens up and gets faster but for this early in the development phase we are seeing some impressive numbers. The first 250 fourstroke Motocross bikes were absolute nightmares to ride, maintain or to kickstart for that matter. A couple of years of development later and everyone forgot those early headaches and wanted to ride nothing but a four stroke bike because of the superior performance.

So are electric bikes the future of racing? I think so but in their own unique way. It will be awhile until we see electric bikes straight up replace the factory fourstroke machines we see racing out on the track right now. Electric bikes will have their own niche. Unique concepts like the CAKE One Design race, the new FIM Explorer series, an independent electric Supercross series? Why not? I believe as riders we should look at the possibilities the electric bikes will bring to our sport and industry. Young kids nowadays start on electric bikes. The kids love the ease with which these bikes can be ridden and parents love the low maintenance. Anyone that has ever worked on a 50 cc two stroke will agree that there is no worse bike to work on. Once these kids grow up they won’t want to jump on a 125 cc or 250 cc bike. They will want to stay electric. And at that point we will see more change coming into the top racing series around the world. For the next 10 years we are entering one of the most exciting periods of off road motorcycle riding ever. New manufacturers, new bikes, different concepts for bikes as well as races and we get to go ride it all. If you enjoy riding Motocross or Enduro and you get the chance to test and electric bike, take the chance to experience something new. Try to keep an open mind and don’t compare it to decades of gas powered development right away but remember that you are riding an early stage prototype similar to Doug Henry on that 400 cc Yamaha four stroke back in 1997.