Choosing your first dual-sport motorcycle
Seat height, weight and what you really plan to ride: how to pick a first bike that does both road and trail.
A dual sport is the most versatile motorcycle you can own: commute during the week, explore forest roads on the weekend. The trick is being honest about the mix.
Start light
Weight matters more than horsepower off-road. A 250 to 300cc bike is easy to pick up, easy to turn around on a narrow trail and still comfortable at highway speeds for short stretches.
Check the seat height in person
Dual sports are tall. Sit on a few with your riding boots on; suspension sag and a lower seat option can make a big difference.
Budget for protection
Handguards, a skid plate and frame protection cost a few hundred dollars and save a lot more the first time the bike lies down.
Come see the dual sports at our Powersports Showroom and we will set the sag for you before your first ride.
Sample article for the MotoDealerHQ demo dealership.
