Month: March 2020

Many would say “Why should I choose an adventure motorcycle vs a car?” – which is a fair point. After all, you could see the world out of a windscreen.

But compared to cars, there are just significantly more advantages.

Adventure Motorcycles vs Cars: Motorcycles are better because:

1. Total freedom that many car drivers just don’t understand. The wind in your hair, twisty roads and the elements.
2. Easier to spark conversations with locals as you don’t come across as a rich tourist with $700k 4×4 motorhome.
3. Maintenance is significantly easier and cheaper, with parts often fitting a range of different branded motorcycles.
4. Much easier to ship your bike to a new continent either with air or sea freight. Try flying a 4×4 motorhome over!
5. All in all, just a cheaper way to see the world, from lowered tolls and carnet to reduced upfront and fuel costs.

Then again, it isn’t for everyone. This is why you see so few people riding motorcycles compared to cars.

Challenges of ADV Riding

When you’re out there in the elements, you can expect to get wet even with a waterproof jacket. Your safety is compromised both when riding and sleeping in a tent, though you’ll find the world to be significantly safer than others perceive it to be.

Also, there is no climate control – you’ll be enjoying the harshness of environments. If it’s raining, you’ll be soaked unless you’re wearing a waterproof jacket and pants. If it’s hot, then you’ll be sweating regardless of what you wear.

Yet compared to airline travel, seeing the world by motorcycle is significantly more eco-conscious and in my opinion, 2nd only to sailing.

Many riders choose to purchase an adventure motorcycle vs a car for these reasons. Even if you’re only doing trips to and from work, the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

In short

So if you’re looking for freedom without breaking the bank, then these key reasons are why motorcycle adventuring has become insanely popular over recent years.

And sure – we’ll admit we’re definitely biased. After all, we are an adventure motorcycling brand.

Buying an adventure motorcycle vs buying a car is different. Owning your 1st bike is a great way to get started. Something small and light initially to learn skills before you evolve and develop.

While we dream of having a new adventure motorcycle, unfortunately, a used ADV motorcycle is all we can afford right now.

And you know, there is nothing to be disappointed about it. Most motorcycles bought are actually used, with most of us only stepping inside of dealerships to purchase protective equipment. New motorcycles are often not worth the hype unless you want that new-bike feeling which doesn’t last long.

It’s a wise idea actually – let someone else lose 20% of the value via depreciation. Save that extra for fuel, gear, beer and a few nice camping spots.

In this guide, we’re going to show you how to be a pre-owned, second-hand or used ADV motorcycle without being ripped off.

Let’s begin.

How to Buy a Used Adventure Bike

Buying a used adventure bike for a weekend exploring or global touring isn’t hard. It always starts fundamentally with research.

1. Find your ideal adventure bike

Firstly you’ll want to figure out what the perfect used adventure bike will suit you best. There are practically many bikes on the market that are suitable for all types of touring.

Now that starts with what type of terrain you’ll be covering. If you’re sticking to 80% bitumen then a dirt-orientated motorcycle like the KTM690R would not be the right adventure motorcycle for you. Its suspension and tyre setup will just be uncomfortable. A BMW F800GS would be better suited.

However, both these motorcycles are heavy and not suited to the dirt tracks. If this is your style of riding, then a 250 would be better suited, with a 450 necessary for the heavier riders. The 250 wins because it’s easy to pick up when you crash, and yes, you will crash eventually.

Our recommendation is to find out what others are riding. Often dealerships are recommending heavy bikes while ADV riders who have been riding for 3+ years choose lightweight bikes without the bling. Even a 250 can reach 65 miles / 100km per hour on the highway, though they are better orientated for offroad adventures. We’ve also written a guide to trail bike riding which will be helpful for those looking for thrills and adventures offroad.

2. Decide whether to buy private or through dealerships

After you’ve transcended the biggest problem that total beginners face, it’s time to decide how you want to purchase your new bike. You can choose dealerships or private, with each having their pros and cons. We wouldn’t necessarily say that one is better than the other.

Dealerships are often preferred by total beginners. See, when you have issues with your motorcycle in the early months, then it’s easier to get protected as a buyer. They might sort out issues especially if you’ve purchased protection gear from them previously. Plus you’ll have the knowledge that there is a clear title with no finance owing.

But then again, we didn’t say these are necessarily better. If you’re buying from a dealership then they have overheads which need to be paid. As a result, you can expect to pay a couple of thousand more in overheads. For many dealerships, it’s used bikes that bring them the most profits because they are able to buy these cheap when other riders trade ’em in for a new ADV bike each year.

Private sellers are perceived to be riskier, and the truth is they actually are. Because of this, they can’t inflate their prices as highly otherwise their motorcycle sits up for sale for months. So if you’re buying privately, establish some trust with the buyer.

They should know the answer to practically everything about their used adventure motorcycle. After all – it’s theirs, right? If they are a genuine motorcyclist then they will be eager to show you everything and tell you straight up why they’re selling.

3. Check everything: Engine, Wheels, Frame, Suspension and Bodywork

Don’t simply assume everything is perfect. They may have just brought the motorcycle back from a wash so it’s looking all nice and clean for you.

Even if it is a dealership, you should be going through the motorcycle and look at it from all angles.

The engine shouldn’t be smokey with immediate throttle response. If it appears jerky or omits some strange noises, then red flags should be raised.

Any recent engine rebuilds should come with receipts. These will be handy to deal with warranty issues down the track.

Look at the wheels and tyres. The spokes should be dead straight, the brake calibres adjusted properly and the tyre wears very even.

A tricky thing to observe properly is the frame. I once sold a dirt bike that unfortunately had a twisted frame from an earlier crash, yet none of us detected it during the inspection. Luckily it was sold to a friend of mine who was able to remedy it very easily.

The suspension should compress and release very smoothly. There shouldn’t be any leaks on the seals and you can test this by sitting on the bike and jumping up and down with your backside. If the seller lets you go for a quick ride, then even better!

Our very last point is motorcycle bodywork. While it’s quite obvious, the bodywork gives tell-tale signs of prior use. If the owner has ever sustained a big crash, then this generally shows up on the bodywork unless they have had the decals recently changed. Look for scratches, dents but also signs of aftermarket parts and replacements.

It’s always wise to get a mate to come along with you for assurance.

4. Take the used ADV motorcycle for a test ride

Unlike a dirt bike or MX bike for the tracks, almost every adventure motorcycle is already registered. That is – there isn’t any reason that an owner shouldn’t let you have a ride unless you don’t have a licence already.

It doesn’t have to be a long test ride at all. 10 minutes max. It’s just a chance for you to make that final decision on whether this is your ideal ADV motorcycle or not.

Leave some equity behind for the owner. If you’ve parked your car in front of their house then simply leave your car keys with them and your licence as well. It will give them confidence knowing that you aren’t going to literally steal the bike during the inspection.

During the test ride, don’t be afraid to rev the bike a little and really use the clutch. You can also perform two brake tests; one each for front and rears.

Arrange this test ride before the inspection and don’t forget to bring some riding gear. A helmet isn’t enough especially for your first ride when you’re unfamiliar with the handling of an adventure motorcycle.

5. Perform online background checks

Now that you’ve found the bike and inspected it, don’t hand over your hard-earned money right away. Some background checks which you can do via your smartphone are necessary. You’ll want to check its registration history, insurance and if any finance is owing.

Depending on your country, there are various ways in which to do this. If you’re buying from a dealership then there is nothing to worry about in this regard.

It’s always easier dealing with someone local in your area. If they are apart of a motorcycling group like ADV Rider with frequent contributions then it’s even better. That reputation that they have built up over time says something about their character offline and it’s something they’ll likely want to uphold.

The motorcycle should also have a logbook with detailed servicing history. Unlike dirt bikes where owners generally do their work in the garage at home, ADV riders generally get their bikes serviced at dealerships across the country. For that reason – you’ll likely find a strong history. If it isn’t there, then be warned.

While we often do it on cars, we forget often to check the VIN number and engine number on used ADV motorcycles, or in fact, any kind of 2-wheeled machine. These should correspond to the seller’s paperwork. If the motorcycle is unregistered then these are going to be harder to verify, but 98% of bikes are registered.

If you buy from auction houses, these generally don’t have any logbooks however there won’t be any financed owed after you make your purchase.

6. Transact and purchase your motorcycle

Now the time has finally come! You’ve done your research and you’re ready to make that purchase. This is where you’ll need your paperwork in order.

Purchasing a used ADV motorcycle is just the same as purchasing a car in most cases. If it’s done via a dealer then they will sort almost everything for you.

Before you ride off, you’ll want to purchase insurance. This covers you in case you crash the motorcycle on your way home and damage the bike and other property.

You’ll generally need the details of yourself and the buyer. Both parties will need to supply their driver’s licence numbers and addresses on the paperwork.

Depending on your country, you may have to pay stamp duty on the purchase price. This is a marginally small amount as used ADV bikes are affordable.

Lastly – just like the test ride – don’t forget your gear! You’ll want to ride your motorcycle home successfully and confidently, so dress the part.

In summary

It’s both exciting and nerve-racking to purchase a used ADV motorcycle. If you’re too worried then pay the premium and use a dealership. They will also have affordable financing options which are hard to get privately, as well as insurance offers.

For private sales, it’s always good to bring a friend along to the inspection. Often that 3rd set of eyes can spot things that you otherwise can’t see.

Don’t forget to take it easy for the first few rides. Ease your way into it and we’ll see you out there on the trails.

All motorcycles are fun – whether they are a quad bike or a dirt bike. But there can only be one winner, so let’s see which is better.

Which is better: Quads or Dirt bikes?

Dirt bikes are simply regarded in the industry as better than quad bikes and much more popular too. You can go faster on a dirt bike than on an ATV quad bike, while also being safer and easier to ride on the road. However, quad bikes have their place if you have a trailer and want to haul lots of gear and go hunting.

Let’s look at some of the key differences between these types of bikes.

Quad bike vs Dirt bike safety

When you’re riding, you want to be safe. That’s why you invest in some very good quality protection equipment.

If you’re new to the offroad world, then quad bikes just appear safer. After all, there are 4 tyres so you don’t need to worry about balance.

Actually, the opposite is true. Dirt bikes are safer than quad bikes. The faster you go, the more dangerous it is to ride a quad bike.

Quad bike dangers

More people die each year as a ratio from ATV accidents than compared to dirt bikes. Here’s why:

1. Riders feel as though they are safer on 4 wheels and often drive in a reckless manner
2. Quad bikes are heavier and will easily pin down an injured rider in the event of an accident
3. They roll over very easily even at low speeds and in Australia, is a key reason for deaths on farms.

So while it’s easier to learn how to ride motorcycles by using a quad bike, there is little value beyond this other than hauling equipment on farms.

Dirt bike benefits

The benefits of dirt bikes are then quite obvious:

• The weight of a dirt bike is significantly lower than a quad
• Riders can lean into corners and lower the centre of gravity
• If the rider crashes, then the bike weighs a whole lot less
• They are actually a whole lot more fun because they are lighter

Even for children, we wouldn’t recommend quad bikes. If they can pedal a bicycle then they can certainly ride a 2-wheel dirt bike very easily.

Verdict: Dirt bikes win for safety

Upfront and ongoing costs

Because dirt bikes are inherently much more popular around the world, it simply costs less to buy a dirt bike. You’ll generally pay 30% more for a quad bike, both new and used.

Quad bikes have 4 wheels so those extra components also put up the price. And because they’re less popular, it’s harder to find parts with dealers often needing to order them in from overseas or interstate.

Most motorcycle mechanics have limited knowledge of quad bikes so you’ll need to find one who knows their craft. This again will incur additional costs for you.

Now let’s say you also want to performance modifications. Dirt bikes are easy with many options available, while there are limited choices for quad bikes.

For many people, you also need to purchase a trailer and have space to store this. Let’s not forget a set of quad-bike ramps as well.

Dirt bikes don’t require trailers to haul them around. You can either ride to the local trails if your dirt bike is registered or use a truck tailgate, van or rear platform.

Verdict: Dirt bikes are cheaper upfront and ongoing

Offroad tracks to explore

You’re probably looking to buy either a dirt bike or a quad bike to explore some tracks. While it might sound easy, both are quite different.

Dirt bikes only require a single track. Quad bikes need more space and will struggle to get around trees.

It’s interesting actually because ATV means All-Terrain Vehicle. But they can’t really access all terrains technically.

Dirt bikes can also be registered to ride on the road between riding spots. Quad bikes will require a trailer or van.

Actually, it’s so much easier to haul a dirt bike as well. You can fit 3 bikes in the same space on a trailer where you could otherwise fit 1 quad bike.

So already by now, we can see that dirt bikes can explore many more tracks than quad bikes. On any weekend ride, you’ll find 10x more dirt bikes out there.

Some places actually band quad bikes entirely because of the track damage they cause. On the flip side, dirt bikes are more than welcome to explore.

Finally, if you want to go on some multi-day treks, then quad bikes severely limit this. It’s impossible to get full road registration on a quad bike, though restricted registrations are available for farmers.

Dirt bikes can carry all of your camping gear and extra fuel for a truly epic adventure. Plus you can also take a passenger on the back in some instances.

Verdict: Dirt bikes can access many more places more easily

Speed and Performance

Now let’s get into actually having fun. That is – you twist the throttle and suddenly the powerband really kicks in. You’ll feel this on a dirt bike, but not so much on a quad bike.

Dirt bikes have better performance than quad bikes. They are available in many different engine variants and you can tune/modify them quite easily with aftermarket parts. This includes suspension, tyres, handlebars and exhausts.

Most quad bikes won’t go past 50 miles per hour or 70km/h. 450cc dirt bikes will do twice these speeds and then a little bit more.

When it comes to the corners, dirt bikes are faster. You can learn into the corner and ‘dig’ yourself in for the quickest cornering time. When riding a quad, you’ll feel it wanting to tip over and send you flying.

While having 2 wheels at the rear might appear that quads are quicker in a drag race, dirt bikes still often win. This is because dirt bike riders can more easily prevent the front tyre from lifting up.

Verdict: Dirt bikes have better top speeds and overall performance

Multi-tasking with quad bikes and dirt bikes

While it’s fun to pop wheelies, do epic jumps and otherwise play around in the dirt, some people simply need more.

It’s time to give quad bikes some credit. In our opinion, you can simply achieve more with quad bikes. They have been built as modern-day work-horses.

If you want to go hunting, fishing, haul some firewood or merely mend some fences, then this is much easier on an ATV. These vehicles were built for this task.

Keen 4×4 owners like to tow a quad bike behind them in a trailer. Once they reach a section in the track which is too technical, they use the quad bike to explore further.

You can also tow small trailers behind a quad bike which you simply can’t do with a dirt bike. These trailers could hold some deer or freshly cut firewood for home.

Verdict: Quad bikes are better for multi-tasking

Learning to Ride each machine

Many people claim that children will learn the controls best with an ATV and we would agree. However, children do learn the controls very quickly.

Once they are past this stage, there is little value in having them on an ATV. They are just too dangerous given the bad cornering ability and heavy machine weight.

If your child can already pedal a bicycle without training wheels, then they will learn how to ride a dirt bike very easily. You can, therefore, wipe quad bikes off their list.

Many manufacturers are coming out with electric dirt bikes now for children. This means there is no clutch or gears to worry about, so your child can simply focus on riding properly.

And because the electric dirt bikes have no hot engine and no fuel, they are inherently lighter and quieter too. This means your neighbours won’t get annoyed at all.

Overall, children will be safer with a dirt bike. They will learn everything within a few rides and paired with the right protection gear, will do just fine.

Verdict: Both adults and children will learn a quad bike easier, but be safer on a dirt bike in the long term.

So, which one should you get?

While dirt bikes are the obvious choice for us and for the wider community, some people still need ATV quad bikes. If you’re a farmer or hunter, you’ll benefit more from having 4 wheels to haul your gear around.

If you’re looking for speed, performance, fun and safety for yourself and your kids, then go with a dirt bike. You’ll often be much better off in the long term.