The allure of dual-sport motorcycles lies in their ability to handle the tarmac and the trail with equal aplomb. These machines bridge the gap between pavement and dirt, making them a favorite for adventure seekers and daily commuters alike.
Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring backcountry trails, a great dual-sport motorcycle can take you just about anywhere. Here, we’ll dive into five of the best models in the market, each offering something unique for both the seasoned rider and the beginner.
1. Honda CRF300L Rally: The Lightweight Contender
Honda’s CRF300L Rally is a nimble dual-sport that manages to balance lightweight agility with reliable performance. Designed for riders who want a machine that’s equally comfortable commuting to work as it is hitting the trails on the weekends, the CRF300L Rally shines with its versatility.
At just over 331 pounds, this bike is light enough for newer riders to handle with confidence. Its 286cc engine may not win drag races, but its manageable power delivery is perfect for navigating both tight city streets and rugged terrain. The suspension, with 10.2 inches of travel, eats up bumps on dirt paths without feeling too soft on the road. Add in Honda’s legendary build quality, and you’ve got a motorcycle that’s built to last.
One of the bike’s standout features is its fuel efficiency, often reaching over 70 miles per gallon. Pair that with a comfortable, upright seating position, and it becomes clear why the CRF300L Rally is a favorite among adventurers who don’t want to compromise on quality or reliability.
Price: $6,199
Honda’s Website
2. Yamaha XT250: Simplicity and Durability
The Yamaha XT250 is a classic dual-sport model that has earned its reputation as a go-anywhere, do-anything motorcycle. Its simplicity is its greatest strength, and for riders who prefer a bike that’s easy to maintain and fun to ride, the XT250 checks all the boxes.
The 249cc air-cooled engine produces modest power, but what it lacks in sheer horsepower, it makes up for in its torque-rich delivery. This makes it surprisingly capable in off-road conditions, where low-end grunt matters more than high-speed prowess. With its low seat height of 31.9 inches, the XT250 is accessible to a wide range of riders, making it a great choice for shorter individuals or those just getting into dual-sport riding.
Off-road, the XT250 shines with its rugged suspension setup and durable frame. It’s not the flashiest bike on the market, but when you’re deep in the woods or crawling over rocky trails, reliability is more important than anything. And on that front, Yamaha’s XT250 delivers in spades.
Price: $5,499
Yamaha’s Website
3. Suzuki DR-Z400S: The Goldilocks of Dual Sports
Suzuki’s DR-Z400S is often described as the sweet spot in the dual-sport category, offering just the right amount of power, versatility, and durability. With its 398cc liquid-cooled engine, the DR-Z400S hits a balance that feels just right—plenty of power for highway speeds, yet still manageable when the pavement gives way to dirt.
The DR-Z400S features a robust suspension system, with nearly 11 inches of travel at both the front and rear. This makes it highly capable on rough off-road terrain, where lesser bikes would struggle. The steel frame, while not the lightest, adds to its durability, allowing the DR-Z400S to take some serious abuse without complaint.
For those who need a bike that can handle longer rides without sacrificing off-road capability, the DR-Z400S is a solid choice. It’s not too heavy, not too light, and offers a balance of power and performance that makes it suitable for everything from weekend trail rides to extended backcountry adventures.
Price: $7,199
Suzuki’s Website
4. Kawasaki KLR650: The Adventurer’s Choice
The Kawasaki KLR650 is the heavyweight in this lineup, both literally and figuratively. Known for its long-standing reputation as the go-to adventure bike, the KLR650 is built for those who want to travel far and wide, regardless of the terrain. With a 652cc single-cylinder engine, the KLR650 offers enough torque to climb mountains and enough power to cruise on highways comfortably.
Weighing in at around 450 pounds, the KLR650 is certainly not a lightweight bike, but for long-distance travel, its size becomes an asset rather than a liability. The larger engine and ample fuel tank (6.1 gallons) mean fewer stops and more time enjoying the open road—or the dusty trail. The KLR650’s windscreen and plush seat are designed with comfort in mind, ensuring that even after hours in the saddle, the rider remains relatively fresh.
Off-road, the KLR650 is a bit of a tank. It’s not going to be as nimble as the smaller bikes on this list, but what it lacks in agility, it makes up for in sheer tenacity. Riders who like to venture off the beaten path, pack their gear, and head off for days at a time will appreciate the KLR650’s ability to handle just about any situation thrown its way.
Price: $6,899
Kawasaki’s Website
5. Honda XR650L: Old-School Cool
Rounding out our list is the Honda XR650L, a bike that’s been around for decades but continues to earn a place in the dual-sport hall of fame. The XR650L is a no-nonsense motorcycle that delivers reliable performance on both asphalt and dirt. Its 644cc air-cooled engine is a throwback to simpler times, but don’t let that fool you—it’s a powerhouse that can handle both low-speed technical trails and higher-speed highway stretches.
With over 11 inches of suspension travel in the front and rear, the XR650L feels more like a dirt bike than a street machine, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a bike for riders who like things a little rough around the edges, for those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty when it’s time for maintenance. Its taller seat height (37 inches) may be intimidating for shorter riders, but for those who can handle it, the XR650L rewards with a commanding riding position and off-road prowess that few bikes can match.
On the road, the XR650L may feel a bit buzzy at higher speeds, but it’s more than capable of handling daily commutes or weekend jaunts. Off the road, its light weight (for a 650cc bike) and rugged construction make it a favorite for those who prefer to blaze their own trail.
Price: $6,999
Honda’s Website
Choosing the Best Dual Sport for You
Each of these bikes offers its own unique blend of features and capabilities, making them some of the best dual-sport motorcycles available today. Whether you’re a beginner looking for something lightweight and approachable like the Honda CRF300L Rally or a seasoned adventurer in need of the long-distance prowess of the Kawasaki KLR650, there’s a dual sport out there that will fit your needs.
Ultimately, the best dual sport motorcycle is the one that fits your riding style, your terrain, and your sense of adventure. So gear up, pick your ride, and hit the road—or the trail—knowing that any of these bikes will get you where you want to go, and beyond.
