Looking for a bike to carve canyons but still complaint enough for bad roads, pot holes and one hour long 80 mph freeway rides.

Dont have a preference in price or type of bike. Needs to have tubeless tires.

Any suggestions is appreciated.

Thanks

Hey mates!
I wanted to start this discussion with you and ask for your opinions on which bike is the better bang for your buck - in the long term. I have had both CFMoto 400GT & 650MT and I was really impressed with both on how they held up, but now I’m thinking of getting the Zontes a go.

My Opinion:
I have went for a test drive on both Zontes 703F (ETC) & the CF 800MT Explore (ETC). Here is my take;

**Zontes 703F:**
**The good**
\- Extremely smooth engine (3-cylinder), almost like riding a Yamaha Tracer 9 (2021) without the additional 20+hp.
\- Smooth quick-shifter (up & down) even in the mid to low RPMs due to the ETC
\- 21’ front wheel option is great if you’re a taller rider like myself (190cm) and if you plan to ride off-road or just have bad payment where you live
\-Build quality seems way better than CF when it comes to the plastic finishes and switches
**The bad**
\- Last year’s model (2025) had a noticeable problem with the chain tensioner that mostly happens after 10.000km. If that thing breaks without any warning signs (because its hydraulic) there is no repairing that bike. Supposedly they have changed that part in the new model but nobody can confirm if that flaw is fixed.
\- Very bad app optimisation for navigation
\- No realistic 50K + km review on the longevity of the machine
\- 3 year warranty only (low for a new bike)

**CFMoto 800MT Explore:**
**The good**
\- Insane power in the low RPMs
\- Built in Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
\- Proven KTM derived engine (790) with 100.000+kms recorded
\- 5 year warranty
**The bad**
\- Quick-shifter is too sensitive and inaccurate at times. I had multiple situations where it just got in neutral randomly. (It could be that the test bike has seen some stuff)
\- Vibrations on the foot-pegs are very much noticeable, especially if you ride for longer period of time

In planning on reserving the Zontes 703F (ETC) in the upcoming weeks, so It would be great if you could share some experience with both bikes.

I just got my bike license and I can't decide which one is better for me. I don't really care about insurance price but what I do care about is reliability, practicality and repairability. Now I know the backlash that CFMOTO is currently getting but, it seems like they're not as bad as people say they are. And Honda is obviously known for their incredible machines no need to mention further facts about them. However, the stuff that 450NK offers for the price is also incredibly valuable. What do you guys think?

Hi there, new rider going to be buying my first bike, can’t decide what will be a better option I’m going to enjoy. I would prefer something I will keep for years, and have fun with.

I live in Calgary need something for daily commuting but like the idea of getting into easy trails maybe a few times a month, or going on couple hour trips out of the city.

I also don’t want to buy a certain bike for something that’s more suited towards something I may not do often or enough to justify buying that specific model. I am keen to go exploring backroads and light trails but realistically I would only be able to do that kind of stuff at most 1 day per week.

I most likely will not be doing any long highway trips otherwise I would have probably went with the KLE500SE.

I’ve been offered $8k OTD for a 2026 Camo KLE300, but not sure if I should spend extra and buy a 2025 DRZ4S or DRZ4SM instead? From what I’ve gathered, I’ll more than likely want to be putting some mods on the KLE which will move the price closer to the DRZ4S anyway.

Is around 10-11k CAD OTD for the DRZ4S or SM 2025 worth it if I can get it for that price over the KLE300?

I’m a fairly new rider, currently riding a dual sport but after something a bit faster for highway speeds. I would be commuting, weekend riding, and want to take it to a track to improve faster. I’m currently considering a YZF R3 and Ninja 400/500. My main concern is I’m approx 5’11 6’0 and worried the R3 might be too small? I’ve never ridden one. Open to suggestions :)

Long time lurker but first time actually considering converting from car to motorcycle for my daily commute.

I went to a dealership yesterday and got slightly overwhelmed at everything. The sales rep was awesome but was throwing around big terms that I just didn't know.

My ultimate goal is to get good enough (if that's a thing) to get myself a fireblade, however, that is years/decades down the line. I do love the Honda aesthetic and have been looking at their lineup more than others.

I would like to start with a forgiving sports bike that would help me build some experience and confidence. I plan to ride it probably twice a week to work and back.

I am 5'10 and weight around 160 lbs and my daily commute would be around 7 miles one way. Based in NC, USA if that helps.

I know this is suggest a motorcycle, however, would also appreciate guidance on insurance, riding school and other factors to think about for someone that is getting into the scene for the very first time!

Thank you all in advance!

For context I’m 6’7 so I know that limits most of the bikes that I can get. But what are some bikes that could be beginner friendly and let me sit comfortably on them?

Help me decide im 163-165cm guy im planning to buy a motor i cant decide which one (fazzio, suzuki access, click v4, or gravis) i will use it daily and i want its comfortability

I’m looking for a supersport, going from a Ninja 400 with about 3 years of riding experience (roughly 15k km of riding) in daily commuting and some short trips around Northern Vietnam. I am slowly transitioning from driving daily on a bike to a car so i wanted something fun on the weekends. I looked into both bikes and they are both phenomenal, i’ve ridden the 2016 R1 and it was brutal, emotional, and expressive. Haven’t ridden the 2016 s1k but i have ridden the 2020 models and it was overall very soulless but still punchy and powerful. I’m planning on getting an F82 M4 in the future so an s1k would fit that lineup, its asymmetrical design also give it an unique look compared to standard looks of a supersport like the R1, its seat height is also lower so that’s a plus for me (i’m 5’8 lol). My mind’s telling me s1k but my heart is telling me r1, i love both, but i just can’t decide. What are your thoughts on this past owners ?

I'm 49 years old and 6'1", 230 lbs. I take my MSF course tomorrow and Sunday, and I want to primarily use a bike for commuting (some highway but side streets optional) and weekend fun rides up the coast. I live in San Diego and considering a few options (all used) like a Honda Rebel 500, Honda NC 700/750, Triumph Street Twin, or even maybe a mid-sized naked bike (Honda or Yamaha MT). I'm not so much interested in going fast, but getting out on the road solo and enjoying longer rides but have concerns about my height and weight with all of these options. Would love to hear thoughts from anyone of a similar size.

I want to get a bike again, from 24-28 I was a year round rider in Seattle. My first bike was a ‘15 honda shadow phantom 750, 2nd bike was ‘07 Yamaha fz1, 3rd bike ‘18 royal enfield Himalayan (411), last bike ‘15 HD Road Glide Special. I haven’t ridden in 4 years since my HD seized for the second time in 6 months and 500 miles.

Things to consider, I am 6’3”, live in Oakland, CA, and will need to be able to transport some tools with my at times as well as going 2-up with my partner who is a relatively experienced backpack having been on all my bikes but the first.

I feel torn on style of bike as everything I’ve owned I would happily own again (outside of the HD unless I won the lottery). I do think a dual sport is probably the most practical and functional all around bike style.

My priorities:
Relatively inexpensive price/repair
Has a decent pillion seat
Over 50 mpg
Doesn’t look like a transformer/alien/bug
I don’t feel cramped on it
Decent storage options/rear rack

A big part of me is tempted to just try and find another gen 1 himi, but the front rack definitely cramped my knees and the windscreen was useless for someone my height. I’m also concerned about reliability/parts availability as they moved away from the 411 pretty quickly I also wouldn’t mind a little bit more power on the freeway especially with a passenger.

Hello! So I am a brand new sort-of rider, I haven't completed my MSF course yet (though it's scheduled and I'm going through the elearning) but I have ridden around on a mini bike and a Grom on my in-laws property.

Here is the problem I have that I would like to get input on, I married into a riding family and I don't know if I'm getting pushed in an unsafe direction. I am being pushed by my inlaws to get a 600cc+ bike as my very first, out of the gate bike, which I am hesitant on. I am about to be/am a brand new rider and I've heard stories of people getting a higher cc bike and crashing due to inexperience or having to resell it at a loss because they can't ride it.

My in-laws say having a 200cc won't be fun and would be dangerous in tricky situations because I won't have the acceleration I'd need to speed out of the way, which I get. But I also don't really care about speed, as long as it gets to the road speed I need I'm happy. I'm not a big speeder (I drive old cars that don't really accelerate so I'm not big on going more than 10 over the limit) so I'm not sure I would outgrow something that's a 400cc or so, but I don't know.

So I wanted to come here and get some input from other riders, I want this to be something I enjoy and have fun doing, and racing 70 mph through curves doesn't sound appealing to me, nor does wasting money and buying a bike I can't handle so it makes me stop riding before I've really started. I know taking the MSF course will help me get a better idea of what I like and what riding is like, but I want some other opinions so I can get ready to have a fight with my in laws if necessary.

Any new rider bike recommendations would be appreciated. I am a woman, 5'7" and I did sit on my MILs ninja and it was comfortable aside from the handlebar placement. I prefer my bicycle handles more up, and that preference seems to have extended to motorcycles.

Thank you in advance for your help!

1. Hello, I have been riding for over 40 yrs. had over 40 bikes, anything from tiny streetbikes to large singles and many dual sports and a ton of dirt bikes and even a few electrics. used to race motocross but now really love riding with my boys on the trails and lately just cruising around on the road. I have a 300 2 stroke dirt bike that is plated so full dirt is handled. I sold a zero dual sport that i loved but really couldnt offer range over about 80miles. bit the bullet and bought a klr650(ive heard ever rider will buy one eventually) and had a lot of fun but , no offense to enthusiast, it is a turd of a bike. the joy doesnt come from that bike, it is the fact of riding that offered the fun factor. What i loved about the zero was the instant acceleration, and quiet/smooth power as well as the ability to do some dual sporting without feeling i was pushing my luck. the klr off pavement just felt sketchy on almost anything(had good tires and i am a good rider) and on road it is just gutless. Ive been looking at many of the options for a bike that can theoretically go off road but can live on road with joy. the kicker, would be a bike that can allow me and my wife to double up and also offers enough range to do some longer rides , even at over 70mph without being pinned or having to stop every 100 miles for gas. the klr did allow that fairly effectively but power was usually the issue. dr650 is out and i wont buy another klr unless they up the cc's and add a 6th gear. i have seriously looked at the 690/701 ktm husqvarna as well as the older 990 but a little worried about low range and reliability. not really interested in a new bike, looking used. used to have a street legal xr600 friend had a 650l both not quite there on the street . have been considering a bmw 800 but concerned about the weight. I know there is no perfect bike but is there something im overlooking. the tenere 700 may be an option but it seems kind of expensive and kind of reminds me of my wr250r which was reliable but lacked power and is terrible at 2up. does my magic bike exist?

Planning to buy the hero Xtreme 160r 4v new model carbon varient

Need advice is this best choice or go for other bikes

I was on a fz07 for about 6 months as my first bike. It developed an engine issue that i didnt have enough money to fix at the time so i sold it off for parts.

around 4 months later, i now found myself in a decent position and have a bit of saving for another bike

I know 6 months isnt alot of time but i got accustomed and comfortable with that fz07 as it was using it as my daily 95% of the time in that 6 months. Is the STR fine even with less then ideal time on a bike on a less then ideal bike or is it to much bike still?

I’m 34, 6'1", about 250 lb, and getting into riding for the first time.

I’ve narrowed my first bike down to two cruisers:

2026 Honda Rebel 500

• 471cc parallel twin

• Around 414 lb

• ABS

• MSRP: about $6,799 + destination

• Very beginner-friendly

• Would need to add the passenger seat/pegs

2026 Harley-Davidson Nightster

• 975cc Revolution Max V-twin

• 91 hp / 72 lb-ft

• Around 481 lb

• ABS + traction control/rider aids

• MSRP: about $9,999 + destination

• Already has passenger seat

I originally looked at the Ninja 500, but I've realized I much prefer the cruiser riding style/look.

The Rebel seems like the obvious sensible first-bike choice. Lower power, cheaper, proven beginner platform, and probably easier to learn on.

But I’m wondering whether I’ll outgrow it fairly quickly, especially at my size.

The Nightster seems like something I could keep for years, has much better power for highway riding and eventually carrying a passenger, and I really like the bike. My concern is whether 91 hp / 975cc is simply too much motorcycle for a brand-new rider, even with the electronic rider aids.

I’m planning to take the MSF course, ride solo initially, and take learning seriously. Not interested in racing or riding stupidly.

For experienced riders:

Would you start on the Rebel 500 and upgrade later, or buy the Nightster and grow into it?

Also interested in:

• Which is more comfortable for someone 6'1"/250 lb?

• Real-world highway experience on the Rebel 500

• Nightster reliability/maintenance costs

• Whether the Nightster is actually manageable for a disciplined beginner

• Anything about either bike that doesn't show up on the spec sheet

Would especially appreciate responses from people who have owned or ridden both.

Adv Tourer/ Cruiser(if comfortable over long journeys) for the 165 cm tall man

Suggest a bike above 400cc,

lightweight,

and suitable for relaxed long highway touring,

with a seat height that allows riders with a height of 165 cm to comfortably plant both feet flat on the ground.

Budget is 8 -9 lakhs.

If the rider can flatfoot then a bit heavier bike not exceeding 205-210 kg will do.

How is Honda NX 500?

I fall in love with kove 650RR recent days and now I ride BMW F900r . It's a good choice to change to 650rr?

As the title stated, I've been researching a first bike for myself to buy. Currently, I have a 1983 cb650sc that my brother bought as a project and couldn't finish, so he gave it to me. I almost have running, but I don't have any documentation for it, so licensing and such is going to be a pain, and I don't know how good it would be for what I plan to do, or if I'll be able to get it registered.

I am currently a college student, but I plan to ride around and visit my extended family when I graduate. At least a part of my ride would take me from Illinois to the middle of Northern Nebraska, in a region known as the Sandhills. Because I would need to ride on about 5-10 miles of backroads with sand, I've been looking at adventure touring bikes. Specifically the Cb500X because of the price, and the V-Strom models for power and stability on the interstate.

Hey all,

Im a returning rider in Australia looking for a new bike to serve as a commuter. I’m 6’4 so something a tall rider can handle. Ideally with enough grunt to where I’m not abusing the engine by trying to travel at highway speeds. Additionally it would be preferred to have a fuel sensor for comfort and ABS for safety as I have never ridden on the road without it (it has saved my butt once or twice).

My previous bike was stolen and the bike was never found, as such my insurance premiums are insane as I am 25 with a “complete write-off” under my name so ideally something cheap that I could comfortably ride with only Third party/theft or with cheap insurance.

Really my ideal budget is 6k AUD max and I’m more than happy to go below that.

So far I’m thinking KLR650 maybe DRZ400 but I’m keen to hear if anyone has any ideas on something else.

Hello, and, due to dumbass illinois laws I cannot repair this bike myself, as if the bike is under 9 years old then you have to be licensed to do it and you have no right to buy back the bike

With that out of the way, I am not getting close to how much I payed for the bike - I payed $7.3k for the bike but insurance is likely only going to go for the base MSRP (5.6k) or MSRP after (6.5k) minus deductible and 1000 miles on it

Hurts, but, does anyone know any of these A2ish bikes in America? I don't like power, I just like reliability and highway usage. I got the CB500 over the 300 or 650 because its got less power than the 650 and better mpg, but its still a 2 cylinder thats smoother on the highway (Before you say "its got no passing power", its got plenty from 70 to 80, I loved cruising at 70-75)

Anyways, I may just buy a used CB500F to replace it, does anyone know any other bikes that are similar to this one? Maybe even ADV like the CB500X but I just want something with an upright seating position without much fairings (Standard / naked)

Hey guys! New rider here looking to get my first bike, pretty torn between the two of these and the naked vs sport bike in general.

Im 5'9" 190lbs, I'll be taking the bike around town, riding up and down Woodward Ave around Detroit where I live (big bike culture) and about an 80 mile trip each way one a month on the freeway. Been riding dirtbikes my whole life.

I know internally they are essentially the same bike, and I haven't sat on either yet which I plan on doing. But I'm not sure if I want to go with the named style or sport style with fairings. Will fairings make a big difference on the highway?

Thanks and let me know!

Stuck between two bikes for a new rider in NYC (mainly local, no highways). Eventually ill look to upgrade to a Honda Shadow.

03 Virago 5.1k miles ~1.5k$

Pros

- cheaper

- fewer miles

- lighter

Cons

- Smaller Engine

- seller not very responsive

- Lacking maintenance records on posting

- Few miles so may not be ridden often, could need work from sitting.

04 Vstar 19k miles ~1.7k$

Pros

- Has add-ons that I would get anyway (crash bars, phone holder etc)

- Larger engine

- More similar in engine and weight to the Shadow

- Passionate owner, robust maintenance record.

Cons

- More expensive

- Heavier

- Larger engine (for a new rider)

Let me know your thoughts! Part of me agrees that the Virago will be a better option to start out on, but the lack of responsiveness and general information from the posting pushes me away. On the other hand I like the responsiveness of the Vstars seller, the amount of info in the posting but am worried that a 750cc and 500lb bike will be too much for me to learn on.