I have been riding my Yamaha WR250R for about 15 years, and although it’s a great bike, I think it’s about time for an upgrade. It’s OK on the highway but not exactly the most comfortable, and runs out of power going uphill or trying to pass. Also it’s quite tall and I’ve dumped in a few times by putting my foot down in a low spot.

Here’s my wish list in a replacement ADV bike:

  • More power (it would be difficult to find something with less)
  • Seat height lower than 36 inches (It would be difficult to find something with more)
  • Something that makes power in the low and mid range, rather than needing to be wound up
  • At least a decent suspension for lots of gravel forestry roads
  • 18/21 inch wheels

I’m not too concerned with weight, I can easily lift any of the bikes in this size range. A couple bikes that caught my eye were the Tenere 700, Taureg 660 and F900GS, but I am open to other suggestions. I’m sort of out of the loop with modern bikes so would appreciate any input anyone cares to share

  • Swordgeek
    2·
    8 days ago

    I guess “mid-size” needs a bit of definition.

    I’ve got a Triumph Tiger 800, and love it. Decided against the 1200 because I didn’t really need that much more displacement. I went with the alloy rims, and that meant tires that aren’t meant for the

    The vStrom 650 or 800 are both great bikes. By all accounts the 800 hits a sweet spot, except that it’s not actually a “V”.