Australian Adventure Bike Magazine

18/12/2024

ROYAL ENFIELD’S BEAR 650
If you like a little scrambling in your adventures, take a look at Royal Enfield’s brand new Bear 650: this thundering beast is packed with scrambler style and loaded with a 1960s soul!
The Bear 650 harks back to a time when a then 16-year-old rookie desert racer named Eddie Mulder – aka Fast Eddie – became the youngest rider to win the famed Big Bear Run desert race held in California’s inhospitable Mojave Desert.
Mulder shocked the desert racing fraternity to beat off 765 riders and capture the Big Bear Run win aboard a 500cc Royal Enfield Fury.
“When you got out on the track, the green flag dropped and the bullsh*t stopped,” Eddie said, in an ethos that parallels Royal Enfield’s development of the new Bear 650.
The new scrambler is powered by Royal Enfield’s celebrated 650cc parallel twin motor from the Interceptor line-up, and pumps out 47hp at 7,250rpm and 56.5Nm of torque at 5,150rpm to deliver a boost in mid-range torque compared to RE’s other Twin models.
Showa suspension delivers 130mm front and 115mm rear wheel travel, while ground clearance is 184mm, with 19/17-inch wheels fitted with dual-purpose tyres.
While packing a scrambler look and style that’s inspired by its desert legacy, the Bear 650 is equipped with a Tripper dash, two-into-one exhaust, long bench seat and kicked-up rear frame loop.
Five colour schemes will be available, including a special Two Four Nine livery that pays homage to Eddie Mulder’s iconic race winning number.
Priced from $11,490 ride-away, the Bear 650 is on-sale now at Royal Enfield dealers.
Royal Enfield Australia & New Zealand

17/12/2024

RUBBER UP
We wish we could ride like Daniel Sanders.
And now we wish we could change tyres like Daniel Sanders!
Is there anything this guy can’t do?
Good luck at Dakar, Chucky ol’ son — give ‘em heaps.
KTM AUSTRALIA
Dakar Rally

17/12/2024

HONDA’S NX500 SOFT-ROADER
Honda’s NX model designation is back, and it means ‘New X-over’, which aptly fits the new NX500 soft-roader, which is previous times was known as the CB500X.
Honda says the new NX500 is fun on winding roads, fun on gravel trails, and is ready to go the distance.
It’s powered by a lively 471cc twin-cylinder engine with assist/slipper clutch, that is shared with Honda’s CB500 Hornet and CBR500R road bikes.
The NX runs 19/17-inch cast aluminium wheels and features a Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork and Showa shock with 135mm wheel travel.
A new five-inch full-colour TFT screen includes Honda Roadsync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other Smartphone functions.
A new LED headlight and tail light are part of the package, along with a redesigned windscreen, while vital stats include a seat height of 834mm, fuel capacity of 17.5 litres and kerb weight of 196kg.
Priced at $10,199 ride-away, the NX500 is available in a choice of red or white colours.
Honda Motorcycles Australia

16/12/2024

THE WHEEL DEAL:
XTZ750 SUPER TENERE RESTO
Don’t you just love a fresh set of custom wheels? Lordy me, indeed!
Check out these bad boys, which are the work of the team at Axiom Moto-X in Brisbane, which is headlined by legend Aussie wheel builder Kevin Titman.
These wheels are going into Clubby’s XTZ750 Super Tenere resto, and they feature heavy-duty Excel rims, custom made spokes, and the original hubs which were blasted and painted by good ol’ Russ at the Off Road Explorer garage.
Talk about nice!
The wheels are now with Dave Wilson at Bilpin Moto Adventures, who has slowly but surely been working his way over the legendary old XTZ, with the brief to get it back towards its original glory and make it a real runner so Clubby can one day go relive his Dakar-wannabe dreams and ride it through the Aussie outback.
Awesome!
We’ll keep you posted on progress.
Axiom Moto X
Yamaha Motor Australia
Bilpin Moto Adventures

15/12/2024

WATCHING CLOSELY
As we’ve hinted before, we are closely watching developments at Rally Raid Products in the UK and their work on suspension setups for the CFMOTO 450 MT.
How good does this sound: a 30mm boost in suspension travel at both ends? Awesome!
Go hard, lads, plenty of Aussie 450 MT riders are keen to boost the bike’s performance even further in the dirt!
Rally Raid Products
CFMOTO Motorcycles Australia

14/12/2024

HARD CORE HOULIHAN
Aussie rally racer Andrew Houlihan might just put the ‘H’ in hard core!
He’s shaping up a whole lot stronger for the Dakar Rally this year, and is racing the Original by Motul mallee moto class … good luck son!
And good luck to fellow Aussie bike racers Daniel Sanders and Toby Hederics — not long now!
The Road To Dakar 2025
Dakar Rally

13/12/2024

THE MOTORRAD GARAGE ULTIMATE SALE!
For so many years Motorrad Garage has been a brilliant supporter of and supplier to the Australian adventure bike scene.
And now they are holding their ultimate sale — ever!
Check it out and grab a bargain.
And thanks for everything Motorrad Garage!
Motorrad Garage

MASSIVE 30% RETIREMENT SALE ON ALL REMAINING STOCK

Before the doors close for the last time on Saturday 21st December 2024 and the Motorrad Garage Team commences their retirement, we bring you our BIGGEST SALE ever. All remaining stock is available at a massive 30% OFF. But hurry, once it’s gone, it’s gone.

https://www.motorradgarage.com.au/

Our Welshpool showroom is open from 8.30 am to 4 pm on Saturday, 21st of December. Our web shop remains active over the Christmas and New Year Period until early January.

Some T’s & C’s apply.

12/12/2024

FRIDAY FLASHBACK
To that time Clubby and the Darcinator took the odd couple of ADV machines — a Yamaha XT1200Z Super T and a Husqvarna 701 Enduro — to the Flinders Ranges … and had a ripping good time!
Yamaha Motor Australia
Husqvarna Motorcycles Australia

11/12/2024

LEATT LAUNCHES NEW ADVENTURE HELMET RANGE
Leatt has announced the launch of its first motorcycle adventure helmet. The new Leatt ADV Helmet, available in 9.5 Carbon and 8.5 models, combines essential road and off-road features, creating a highly adaptable solution for the demands of adventure motorcycling. This marks a significant expansion for Leatt, completing its head-to- toe lineup for riders across all terrains.
Leatt placed significant focus on practicality and comfort when constructing the ADV helmet. Exceptional vision comes standard via the large eye port, complete with a photochromic shield. This design increases rider safety as well as enhancing performance off-road when goggles are worn.
In true Leatt fashion, the ADV helmet includes all necessary accessories in the box as part of the base model. So, while the price remains competitive for the helmet, the additional accessories that make up the package ensure that this offers riders great bang for their buck.

AN INNOVATIVE DESIGN
By combining road and off-road helmet elements, the Leatt ADV helmet features the best of both. A streamlined aerodynamic shape allows for smooth, high-speed road performance, while the wide eye port and peak visor is typical of off-road helmets.
Configurable for different riding styles, the ADV helmet allows riders to use a shield, visor, and goggles in various combinations, adapting effortlessly to changing conditions.

TESTED & REFINED IN THE LEATT LAB
The ADV helmet has been put through its paces in the Leatt Lab, being refined and perfected before going to market. Extensive wind tunnel testing shows up to 38 per cent lower lift and 8 per cent lower drag compared to industry benchmark helmets, delivering stability, noise reduction and comfort on long rides.
With a tool-free, quick-release shield system, a removable chin curtain, emergency quick-release cheek pads, and compatibility with communication devices, the ADV helmet prioritises rider safety and convenience above all else.
The ADV helmet meets the rigorous ECE 22.06 and DOT safety standards, and features Leatt’s 360° Turbine Technology, improving rider safety by reducing both low impact energy associated with concussion and brain rotational acceleration. Four densities of impact foam further enhance protection, all housed under a thin shell profile for a stylish, compact looking helmet. The Leatt 9.5 Carbon helmet weighs in at 1490g (M/L) and the 8.5 composite version sits at 1575g.

FULLY LOADED
The Leatt ADV helmet comes with everything needed to maximize adventure riding.
A photochromic shield is fitted to the helmet as standard, with an additional clear shield included. Pinlock® 120 XLT MaxVisionTM delivers fog-free visibility, and bulletproof 4.5 Velocity goggles are perfect for off-road trail riding. All this, a helmet bag and spare parts are included in the box! The 9.5 Carbon model features a magnetic FidlockTM buckle, while the 8.5 has a DD Ring system. The 9.5 Carbon also comes in a premium helmet bag, ideal for travelling with on planes.
Available in sizes XS to XXL, a wide range of accessory cheek pad thicknesses are also available to fine-tune the fit.
The 9.5 Carbon is offered in a sleek black color, while the 8.5 comes in multiple colors, including Hi-Viz and Royal.
Finally, Leatt’s 3-year Helmet Replacement Program offers riders added peace of mind, providing support for a replacement unit in the event of any helmet damage sustained while riding.
RRP:
Leatt 8.5 ADV helmet kit $1,049.99
Leatt 9.5 ADV helmet kit carbon $1,399.99

11/12/2024

1,000 … NOT OUT!
From our first ride on the CFMOTO 450 MT at the world launch in the Phillipines we just knew this bike would strike a chord with Aussie ADV riders … and it has!
Over 1,000 sales so far this year, and no signs of slowing down.
Congratulations CFMOTO!
CFMOTO Motorcycles Australia

Over 1,000 Riders, One Incredible Journey.

In just six months, the CFMOTO 450MT has become the go-to choice for adventure enthusiasts across Australia, with over 1,000 motorcycles now on the road. This milestone represents more than just a number—it’s a testament to the trust and passion of our amazing community of 450MT riders.

To every adventurer who has embraced the 450MT, thank you for making this journey possible. Together, we’re redefining what it means to get out on two wheels and explore.

Here’s to the adventures ahead — powered by you, driven by us.

CFMOTO_Official

10/12/2024

All-inclusive motorbike tours designed to immerse you in Tasmania’s natural beauty, combining sweeping bends to coastal highways.

🏍️ Experience the very best of stunning Tasmania with Devil Adventure Bikes!

🔗https://tdab.com.au/

09/12/2024

DOUBLE BARRELS
How sweet is the Akrapovic double silencer on the BMW R 1300 GS Adventure we currently have on test?
And check out the double headed rear brake pedal, with serrated teeth on each face.
One of the above comes standard, and the other is an option.
And my goodness, how many optional packages and parts do you have to choose from when ordering your new GS? It’s one hell of a menu!
BMW Motorrad Australia

09/12/2024

HANDS UP FOR HELD
We’ve been running some European Held riding gear for a while now, and the stuff has impressed.
Now Held has launched a new ‘Held Academy’ series on YouTube to detail a variety of their latest products.
First up is an explanation of Held’s 2-in-1 glove technology with Goretex membrane … check it out!
HELD Gear

Held GORE-TEX 2in1 technology - One glove, two options!GORE-TEX gloves with GORE-TEX 2in1 summer technology offer a quick and easy change between grip chambe...

07/12/2024

FROM WHERE WE’D RATHER BE …
Adventure riding a DesertX around the South Island of New Zealand … awesome!
Ducati Australia & New Zealand

05/12/2024

THE AIR IN THERE
When it’s a thousand degrees and a thousand and one per cent humidity out amongst the ADV goodness of the Hunter Valley at the start of summer, you gotta be glad to be wearing ventilated gear like Leatt’s Flow Tour 7.5 Stealth jacket and pants, and Nexx’s XWed3 Keyo helmet.
Let the air flow free!
Leatt Protectives
Whites Powersports
NEXX Helmets Australia
BMW Motorrad Australia

05/12/2024

RIDE ON
The early bird catches … a big day’s adventure.

BMW Motorrad Australia

05/12/2024

NEW DUCATI MULTISTRADA V2
Ducati has completely redesigned its Multistrada V2 mid-size crossover for twin-cylinder engine lovers and it sets new benchmarks for lighteness, handling and ease of riding
Designed around the new Ducati V2 engine and with an aluminium monocoque frame, it weighs 18kg less than the previous model
Benchmark electronic equipment and Skyhook suspension, which thanks to the Minimum Preload function and a seat adjustable to two heights make the Multistrada V2 suitable for everyone
The 4EVER Ducati and Roadside Assistance packages allow you to travel with complete peace of mind, thanks to a 4-year warranty and an assistance network with over 800 official Ducati dealerships in 90 countries around the world.*

+ MULTISTRADA V2 S
Ducati Red or Storm Green
+ Main standard features:
Ducati V2 engine, 890cc
Max power of 115 hp at 10,750 rpm
Max torque of 92 Nm at 8,250 rpm
Kerb weight without fuel: 202 kg
Aluminium monocoque frame
19-litre tank
Ducati Skyhook Suspension with Suspension mode management and Minimum Preload function
Electronically controlled Marzocchi fork with 45 mm tubes, 170 mm travel
Electronically controlled Sachs shock absorber, 170 mm travel
Aluminium rims with 19” front and 17” rear
Brembo braking system with double 320 mm front disc and 265 mm rear disc
Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tyres
Latest-generation electronic package with 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU): ABS with cornering functionality; Ducati Traction Control (DTC); Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC); Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0; Engine Brake Control (EBC).
New 5” full-TFT dashboard with Infomode management and redesigned handlebar controls
Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro, Wet)
Power Modes (High, Medium, Low, Off-Road)
Full-LED headlights with DRL and Coming Home functionality
Ducati Brake Light EVO
Ducati Multimedia System
Cruise Control
USB socket on the dashboard

+ MULTISTRADA V2
Ducati Red
Standard features as Multistrada V2 S with the exception of…
Kerb weight without fuel: 199 kg
Marzocchi fork with 45 mm tubes with mechanical control, 170 mm travel
Sachs shock absorber with mechanical control, 170 mm travel
Ducati Multimedia System

+ Pricing:
Multistrada V2 starting from $26,100
Multistrada V2 S starting from $29,200
Available from March 2025

Ducati Australia & New Zealand

05/12/2024

BARNSTORMING BAVARIANS
Achtung baby!
It’s new BMW R 1300 GS Adventure time, and Clubby and Darcy have scored one each this morning for review from Procycles Hornsby.
There’s a h***y Triple Black and a ripping Trophy X and all we have do now is gear up and go.
You reckon this is gonna be good, oh yeah!
BMW Motorrad Australia
Leatt Protectives
Whites Powersports