Adventure bikes are one of the most popular styles of motorbikes on the road today due to their versatility and comfort. Adventure bikes can range from cheap, small-capacity models to technologically advanced models with almost as many buttons as the Starship Enterprise.
Due to the wide variety of adventure bikes available, prices and insurance premiums can also vary wildly.
What are adventure bikes?
Adventure bikes are, as their name suggests, bikes that are designed for adventuring. They’re generally able to handle both on and off-road riding and long distances. Adventure bikes have an upright riding position to give the rider a commanding view of the road ahead, and to help with control during off-road riding.
Exactly when the adventure bike was born is a little unclear, though any point to the BMW R80G/S as the first real adventure bike. Compared to today’s adventure bikes the G/S was extremely basic, with little bodywork and very little in the way of technology.
Since the G/S was introduced in 1980 adventure bikes have become bigger and more advanced. Today they’re some of the most technologically advanced bikes available, with features such as cornering headlights and cornering ABS.
Popular adventure bikes
One of the most popular adventure bikes is the BMW R1200GS. The GS series of motorcycles was thrust into the public eye when Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman embarked on their Long Way Round adventure in 2004. Since then the R1250GS has been launched with an updated Shiftcam engine.
With the popularity of adventure bikes clear to see, plenty of other manufacturers have launched their own versions. KTM have their Adventure range, while Ducati have the technologically impressive Multistrada range.
Outside of Europe, Honda have their Africa Twin, Kawasaki have the Versys 1000 and Yamaha have their Super Ténéré, and the 2019 smaller-capacity adventurer, the Ténéré 700. Check out our list of the best adventure bikes here.
How can I get cheap adventure bikes insurance?
You can compare and save on comprehensive adventure bike insurance cover with MCN Compare. We compare against all the top insurers in one place to ensure you get the cheapest cover possible. See for yourself, get an online quote with MCN Compare (online and over the phone).
