When the asphalt ends and the dirt road begins to call, trail bikes are the perfect companions. Designed to conquer both long highway distances and off-road challenges, these motorcycles offer unmatched versatility.

But, which are the true queens of this segment? Today we put under the microscope the most outstanding contenders: the iconic BMW R 1300 GS, the agile KTM Adventure, and the versatile Husqvarna Norden 901. If you are looking for the best trail bikes for your next exploration, keep reading to discover which one best adapts to your travel style.

What Defines a Motorcycle as Trail?

A trail motorcycle, or ‘adventure’ bike as they are also known, is the perfect synthesis between a road motorcycle and an off-road one. They are characterized by their ability to handle diverse terrains, from fluid highways to gravel roads and less traveled paths. Their main attributes include:

• Long-travel suspension: allows for absorbing terrain irregularities and provides greater comfort on long journeys.
  
• Upright riding posture: thanks to the high handlebars and wide seat, they offer excellent visibility and comfort, ideal for spending many hours riding.
• Dual-sport tires: designed to offer grip on both asphalt and unpaved surfaces.
• Protection: usually incorporate elements to protect the engine and other vital parts against possible impacts.
  
• Load capacity: prepared to carry luggage, making them ideal for trips and expeditions.

In essence, a trail bike is the preferred choice for those seeking the freedom of having no limits on their route.

Technical Comparison: BMW GS vs. KTM Adventure

To help you make an informed decision between the best trail motorcycles, let’s compare some key technical data of these giants of the segment:

Features	BMW R 1300 GS	KTM 790 Adventure	KTM 390 Adventure	Husqvarna Norden 901
Engine	Twin-cylinder Boxer	LC8c Parallel Twin LC8c	Single-cylinder	LC8c Parallel Twin LC8c
Displacement	1300 cc	799 cc	373 cc	889.5 cc
Power	145 HP	95 HP	44 HP	105 HP
Torque	149 Nm	88 Nm	37 Nm	100 Nm
Weight (in running order)	237 kg	189 kg	172 kg	204 kg
Average Consumption (l/100km)	Aprox. 4.8 L	Aprox. 4.4 L	Aprox. 3.3 L	Aprox. 4.5 L
Seat Height	850 mm (adjustable)	830 mm	830 mm
Tank Capacity	19 L	20 L	14.5 L	19 L
Suspension	EVO Telelever (semi-active)	WP APEX (adjustable)	WP APEX (basic)

Note: Consumption values may vary depending on riding style and terrain conditions.

For Travelers: BMW R 1300 GS

The BMW R 1300 GS is, without a doubt, the benchmark for many when it comes to long-distance travel and road comfort. Its robustness, stability, and characteristic twin-cylinder boxer engine offer a smooth and powerful riding experience.

Ideal for: long road trips, routes with light off-road sections, and those looking for maximum comfort and safety over long distances.

Strengths

• Superior comfort. Its ergonomics, aerodynamic protection, and advanced suspension systems (like the Telelever and Paralever) minimize fatigue on extensive trips.
• Cutting-edge technology. Equipped with a plethora of electronic aids, customizable riding modes, adaptive cruise control, and intuitive TFT instrumentation that make every journey easier.
• Load capacity. Ideal for carrying luggage for one or two occupants, with a multitude of options for panniers and top cases.

For Adventurers: KTM Adventure

The KTM Adventure models, especially the KTM 790 y KTM 390 Adventure, win the hearts of those seeking a motorcycle with a stronger focus on off-road performance. While they are perfectly capable on the road, their adventurous spirit is unleashed on more demanding terrain.

Ideal for: explorers who prioritize off-road capability, trips with a high component of off-road adventure, and those looking for a more dynamic and energetic riding experience. The 390 Adventure is perfect for getting started in trail riding with a very manageable bike.

Strengths

• Agility and lightness. They are notably lighter than their larger displacement rivals, which translates into greater ease of handling on complicated paths and at a standstill.
• Energetic and fun engine. KTM engines offer lively power delivery and generous torque, ideal for negotiating obstacles and feeling the thrill of off-road riding.
• Off-road orientation. With greater ground clearance, longer travel suspension, and a configuration more oriented towards pure adventure, they are perfect for exploring trails and unpaved roads.

For Balanced Explorers: Husqvarna Norden 901

The Husqvarna Norden 901 burst onto the trail scene offering a proposal that combines the adventurous spirit of KTM (they share the engine) with a more refined and travel-oriented approach. Its distinctive aesthetic and balance between off-road capabilities and road comfort make it a very attractive option.

Ideal for: motorcyclists looking for a versatile trail bike, capable of long trips and moderate off-road sections, who value a differentiated design and a dynamic balance between road and adventure.

Strengths

• Perfect balance: offers an excellent compromise between road performance and off-road aptitude, ideal for those who don’t want to sacrifice one aspect for the other.
• Powerful and smooth engine: the 889.5 cc engine delivers linear power and abundant torque, making it very pleasant to ride in any situation.
• Diseño distintivo y confort: su estética única se combina con una ergonomía pensada para la comodidad en largos viajes, con una buena protección contra el viento y una posición de conducción relajada.
• Well-integrated technology: incorporates advanced electronic aids, riding modes, and a TFT screen that complement its adventurous character.

How much does a trail bike lean?

The lean capacity (or lean angle) of a trail bike is an interesting factor that influences its behavior both on and off the road.

Although their greater height and suspension travel might suggest a lower maximum lean angle in curves than sports bikes, this is not entirely true:

• BMW R 1300 GS: Up to 40°-45° (limited by engine protection).
• KTM Adventure: Up to 50°+ (compact design and high fairing).

Important: these values depend on rider skill and tires. Safety should always come first.

Tell me what type of rider you are and I’ll tell you which one to choose

Choosing between the BMW R 1300 GS and the KTM Adventure comes down to your predominant travel style.

If you are the rider who values comfort, power, and technology to tackle long road trips with some forays onto simple tracks, seeking maximum stability and premium equipment, your ideal bike is the BMW R 1300 GS. It is the perfect companion for crossing continents in total comfort and safety.

On the other hand, if you are the rider looking for agility, lightness, and greater capacity to explore dirt roads and challenge the off-road, without giving up the possibility of road trips, your motorcycle is the KTM Adventure (790 or 390). They will offer you a more energetic experience and greater confidence when the asphalt disappears.

The 390 KTM Adventure is excellent if you are looking for a more accessible and easy-to-handle bike, ideal for those starting in the trail world or who prefer lightness.

Both are ‘best trail motorcycles’ in their category, and the final choice will depend on your priorities and the type of adventure you have in mind.

Rent your favorite motorcycle with Moto Map Travel and start your adventure

Ready to decide? At Moto Map Travel, we offer a wide fleet of the best trail motorcycles, including BMW and KTM models, so you can experience the adventure you always dreamed of.

Explore our selection, choose the perfect bike for your riding style, and get ready to conquer new horizons. Visit our motorcycle rental o contact us for more information and book today!