Introduction:
As the sun-kissed days (sorry, rainy days) of the UK summer embrace us, adventure seekers and motorcycling enthusiasts are gearing up for an exhilarating event in the heart of the picturesque Peak District. The Lightweight Adventurers Festival, which only debuted last year (Watch my 2022 LWA Festival Vlog), promises to be another thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Bringing together riders from all walks of life, the festival celebrates a shared love for motorcycle exploration, green laning and those off-the-beaten-track adventures. Amidst the backdrop of breath-taking landscapes, the event will see a multitude of lightweight adventure bikes descend on a small patch of the Peak District to watch and listen to various guests as they recount their own motorcycle adventures.

However, a question still looms over the horizon: What makes for a better adventure motorcycle—the nimble lightweight wonders or the robust and sturdy heavyweights? Let’s embark on a journey of discovery to look for the answer.

Lightweight Adventure Motorcycles:
Lightweight adventure motorcycles, like my own CRF300L, have gained popularity in recent years due to their agility, versatility, and impressive fuel efficiency. These bikes are designed to navigate challenging terrains with ease, making them ideal companions for off-road adventures. Their nimble nature allows riders to tackle tight corners, maneuver through tricky trails, and explore remote areas that might be inaccessible to their heavier counterparts. The reduced weight also enhances the overall riding experience, offering a sense of freedom and responsiveness that adds to the thrill of the journey. For me a lightweight dual sport bike offers a chance to relive my youth, I remember bombing around country lanes with my mates, I may have been on a small capacity motorbike but I always had the largest of smiles. I get this same feeling on my CRF.

Heavier Adventure Motorbikes:
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the heavyweights—the formidable beasts of adventure motorcycling, in my case it’s a Tiger 900 Rally Pro. These robust machines, with their larger engines and sturdier frames, bring a different set of advantages to the table. Designed to handle extended journeys and carry heavier loads, these bikes excel in long-distance touring and provide superior stability on the open road. The adoption of longer travel suspension, 21 inch front wheels and rally styling/features, mean these heavier bikes are able to absorb vibrations and endure demanding terrains, such as sand, gravel or even some of the gnarliest terrain (if you have the riding ability). For me, having a larger adventure bike provides me with an opportunity to put in the miles, they offer a more comfortable ride over extended periods and distances, but when needed I’m able to blast across the rougher terrain, albeit I’m certainly not as sure footed on the Tiger in comparison to riding the mountain goat that is my CRF300L.

While the lightweight and heavyweight adventure motorcycles represent two distinct categories, it’s important to note that the “best” bike ultimately depends on personal preferences and the intended use. Some riders prioritise nimbleness and off-road capabilities, valuing the freedom to explore remote trails and conquer technical challenges. For them, lightweight bikes are the perfect choice.

On the other hand, riders seeking extended tours or who plan to carry substantial gear may find heavier adventure motorcycles more suitable. These bikes offer a higher load-carrying capacity, improved wind protection, and a more relaxed riding position that can enhance comfort during long hours on the road.

Even the heaviest adventure bikes can be formidable off road machines in the right hands, but that for me, is reserved for the few and not the many. The lightweight options give an easier barrier to entry for most riders looking for off road adventures.

However, it’s worth mentioning that advancements in technology have blurred the boundaries between these categories. Manufacturers now offer a wide range of motorcycles that bridge the gap, offering a balance between agility and endurance. Mid-weight adventure bikes, such as those you will see in ridden by my friends in recent vlogs, (Andy’s – Yamaha Tenere 700 or @abr.Gaz KTM 790 Adventure), combine the best of both worlds, providing ample power, respectable off-road capabilities, and enhanced long-distance touring capabilities.

Conclusion:
As I gear up for the 2023 Lightweight Adventurers Festival in the Peak District, the debate between lightweight and heavyweight adventure motorcycles adds an exciting layer of discussion. While lightweight motorcycles excel in agility and off-road performance, heavier counterparts boast stability and endurance. However, with the advent of mid-weight adventure bikes, riders now have even more options to suit their specific needs and preferences.

So is a unicorn bike out there? I’m not sure, but manufacturers like Kove are pushing the boundaries, however, it’s still too soon to be sure if their 450 Rally will ascend to unicorn status.

Ultimately, the “best” adventure motorcycle is subjective, as it varies based on individual riders’ desires and intended journeys. What I do know is that regardless of whether you find joy in conquering challenging off-road trails or embarking on epic cross-country expeditions, the Lightweight Adventurers Festival will again undoubtedly provide a platform to appreciate the rich diversity of adventure motorcycles and the camaraderie among riders who share a passion for exploration.

So, what’s your take on the great motorcycle debate, is light right or do the heavyweights take the crown as the best adventure motorcycles?

Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading

Craig aka KILNmoto