The adventure motorcycle (ADV) segment is booming, with manufacturers releasing new models yearly. This rapid innovation creates an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious buyers on the used market. Enthusiasts often modify these bikes, meaning you might find pre-owned models loaded with desirable accessories… or unwanted extras.
Buying used involves risk, so research thoroughly. This list ranks models from oldest to newest, highlighting why each one still holds value today.
The Early Pioneers: Setting the Standard
2010 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure ($5,000 – $7,000)
The R 1200 GS Adventure is arguably the bike that popularized the ADV category. Combining capability, durability, and comfort, it quickly became a benchmark for long-distance riders. Even by modern standards, the 2010 model delivers over 110 horsepower, making it a capable performer on and off-road.
2013 KTM 990 Adventure ($7,000 – $9,000)
Throughout the 2000s, KTM’s LC8 V-twin engine directly challenged BMW’s dominance. The 990 Adventure gained a reputation for superior off-road performance, weighing in at just over 450 pounds with over 100 horsepower. While once considered a large-displacement adventure bike, it now aligns closely with modern middleweight options.
Overlooked Gems: Bargains Waiting to Be Found
2014 Husqvarna TR650 Terra ($3,000 – $5,000)
BMW sold Husqvarna to KTM, resulting in the TR650 Terra—essentially a modernized BMW F 650 GS. KTM showed little interest in marketing this bike, leading to its premature discontinuation. Today, it represents a significant bargain for those who can find one.
The Middleweight Shift: Filling the Gaps
2017 KTM 1090 Adventure R ($7,000 – $9,000)
KTM recognized a gap between its 690 Enduro R and 1190 Adventure, and the 1090 Adventure R was a stripped-down solution. Despite being marketed as a middleweight, it boasts 125 horsepower, outperforming many modern bikes on both pavement and dirt.
Retro Revival: Style Meets Capability
2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled ($3,000 – $5,000)
Ducati entered the ADV market with the Desert Sled, offering genuine off-road capability unlike some of its Scrambler siblings. The air-cooled twin provides ample power, while the minimal equipment keeps the weight manageable. Depreciation has made this once-premium bike surprisingly affordable.
Demand Normalizes: A Buyer’s Market
2021 Yamaha Ténéré 700 ($6,000 – $8,000)
For the first two years of production, the Ténéré 700 struggled to meet demand. Now, as competition rises, prices have normalized, making a used model an excellent value, especially if you appreciate its minimalist approach.
Touring Focused: Comfort and Practicality
2022 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport ($6,000 – $8,000)
Most riders use ADVs for touring, making the street-oriented Tiger 850 Sport a compelling option. It prioritizes long-distance comfort while remaining capable enough for occasional dirt stretches.
Late Arrivals: Catching Up to the Competition
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 ($7,000 – $9,000)
Aprilia responded to the Tenere 700 with the Tuareg 660, which often surpasses it in performance. It offers more power, advanced tech, better comfort, and superior suspension. However, Aprilia’s past reliability issues have held it back in the market.
Raw Capability: No-Frills Adventure
2023 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure ABS ($4,000 – $6,000)
The KLR650 Adventure is a no-nonsense dual-sport capable of tackling continents. At this price point, it’s unmatched in off-road prowess, but its highway performance suffers over long distances. It’s an exploration tool, pure and simple.
Beginner-Friendly: Accessible Adventure
2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan ($3,000 – $5,000)
The Himalayan scales down the KLR’s uncompromising nature into a more approachable package. It’s lighter and more agile, making it ideal for new riders. While not fast, it prioritizes durability and off-road capability over speed.
The used ADV market offers a diverse range of options. Whether you prioritize off-road prowess, long-distance comfort, or affordability, there’s a bike to suit your needs. Careful research and inspection are essential, but the potential rewards—a capable adventure machine at a fraction of the new price—are well worth the effort.
