Best Off-Road Adventure Bikes of 2025
(In No Particular Order!)
These are the top 10 adventure motorcycles for off-road riding in 2025, available in the U.S. market. Each one is a standout in dirt performance, reliability, and all-terrain capability. Whether you're chasing BDRs, crossing continents, or ripping local trails, these bikes are made to handle the rough stuff. Let’s dive into the machines that make adventure riding better than ever.
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1. 2025 KTM 890 Adventure R
KTM continues to lead the off-road ADV segment with the 890 Adventure R. It’s purpose-built for rough terrain, with long-travel WP XPLOR suspension, a dirt-friendly 21”/18” wheel combo, and off-road-biased geometry. The 889cc parallel twin offers smooth low-end torque perfect for technical trails, while updated electronics keep the ride planted in variable conditions. KTM’s off-road heritage shines here—this bike is the gold standard for serious ADV trail work.
2. 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp
The updated 2025 Transalp features improved suspension and electronics, making it even more competent off-road than its 2023 predecessor. While still mid-weight and more approachable than big-bore monsters, it’s got enough power and comfort for long adventures. With a low center of gravity and a revised traction control system, the Transalp remains agile and confidence-inspiring off the pavement. Honda also addressed prior criticisms with small but smart upgrades to ergos and damping.
3. 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure
BMW’s all-new R 1300 GS Adventure gets beefed-up suspension and the most advanced tech package in its class. While hefty, it’s engineered to handle backcountry challenges better than any GS before it, with dynamic suspension adjustment, off-road ABS, and refined weight distribution. Its 1300cc boxer twin is both powerful and surprisingly tractable in slow going. Riders looking for a premium go-anywhere machine with unmatched touring comfort should take note.
4. 2025 Ducati DesertX Rally
The DesertX Rally builds on Ducati’s impressive base model by adding KYB closed-cartridge forks, stronger wheels, and more suspension travel. It’s truly a rally-inspired machine for riders who want Italian style without compromising real-world dirt capability. The 937cc Testastretta engine is smooth but punchy, making this bike a blast in open terrain. Ducati’s continued focus on making this platform more rugged gives it a strong foothold in hardcore ADV territory.
5. 2025 KTM 390 Enduro R
New for 2025, the KTM 390 Enduro R is a lightweight dual-sport styled ADV bike that bridges the gap between trail and touring. With long-travel suspension, spoked wheels, and a minimalist chassis, it’s clearly aimed at aggressive off-road use. The 373cc engine is surprisingly capable, and the bike’s weight makes it ideal for technical riding or new ADV riders looking to get serious in the dirt. Think of it as a mini adventure bike that punches way above its class.
6. 2025 Yamaha Ténéré 700
Though not radically updated for 2025, the Ténéré 700 remains a class leader in off-road adventure. Its CP2 engine is ultra-reliable and torque-rich, with excellent throttle feel and simplicity that ADV purists love. The chassis is balanced, the suspension is tunable, and it has a commanding riding position for rough terrain. Yamaha kept it analog and light, making it one of the most trusted mid-weight adventure bikes for going off the grid.
7. 2025 KTM 1390 Super Adventure R
The new 1390 Super Adventure R brings insane power and refinement to KTM’s flagship off-road ADV platform. With over 140 horsepower and electronically adjustable long-travel suspension, it’s a beast in the dirt that doesn’t feel bloated. Despite its size, KTM has made the 1390 more manageable than ever thanks to optimized weight distribution, a lower center of gravity, and lean-sensitive traction control. It’s the most extreme “big ADV” you can buy for off-road terrain.
8. 2025 CFMoto Ibex 800 R
The CFMoto Ibex 800 comes in two trims (S for street, R for off-road), and the R version is genuinely dirt-worthy. With KYB adjustable suspension, a solid 21″/18″ wheel setup, and a surprisingly refined 799cc engine, it’s a high-value option for riders on a budget. It undercuts most competition on price but still delivers competent performance off the pavement. For new riders or those looking for an affordable mid-weight off-roader, this is a sleeper pick.
9. 2025 Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition
The Norden 901 Expedition blends KTM’s off-road chassis with Husqvarna’s adventure-touring refinement. Its long-travel suspension, upgraded luggage, and enhanced electronics make it ready for extended off-road adventures. The 899cc twin is tuned for linear power, and the bike’s smooth character makes it more approachable than its KTM cousin. It’s ideal for riders who want performance without sacrificing creature comforts on long journeys.
10. 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery
The Discovery variant of the DesertX adds long-distance travel features like panniers, crash protection, and ergonomic tweaks without losing its off-road focus. It’s essentially a fully prepped overland ADV right from the showroom floor. The bike is rugged, well-balanced, and powerful, with real dirt capability thanks to its frame geometry and suspension travel. Ducati continues to evolve this platform into a serious global adventure touring option.
2025 Adventure Bike Comparison Chart
| Model | Engine (cc) | Weight (approx.) | Suspension Travel (F/R) | Wheel Size (F/R) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KTM 890 Adventure R | 889 | ~464 lbs | 9.4” / 9.4” | 21” / 18” | Off-road performance |
| Honda XL750 Transalp | 755 | ~459 lbs | ~7.9” / 7.5” | 21” / 18” | All-around balance |
| BMW R 1300 GS Adventure | 1300 | ~550+ lbs | ~8.3” / 8.7” | 19” / 17” | Tech & comfort |
| Ducati DesertX Rally | 937 | ~492 lbs | 10.6” / 9.8” | 21” / 18” | Hardcore off-road suspension |
| KTM 390 Enduro R | 373 | ~348 lbs | 9.8” / 10.2” | 21” / 18” | Lightweight trail capability |
| Yamaha Ténéré 700 | 689 | ~452 lbs | 8.3” / 7.9” | 21” / 18” | Simplicity & reliability |
| KTM 1390 Super Adventure R | 1350 | ~540+ lbs | 8.7” / 8.7” | 21” / 18” | Power + advanced tech |
| CFMoto Ibex 800 R | 799 | ~509 lbs | 7.9” / 7.5” | 21” / 17” | Value leader |
| Husqvarna Norden 901 Exp. | 899 | ~502 lbs | 9.5” / 9.4” | 21” / 18” | Balanced ADV performance |
| Ducati DesertX Discovery | 937 | ~492 lbs | 9.0” / 8.7” | 21” / 18” | Adventure-ready touring setup |