It’s a winter thing isn’t it? Our pride and joys get dirty and you can’t exploit them so we all think “if I had an adventure bike I won’t care as much..” but come the dry summer roads we’d have the same feelings of regret. The answer is at least 2 bikes, so I will keep doing the lottery 😅. I did ride to work last week, about 90 mins in the dark and, while cold, I felt safe and enjoyed it.
My 2nd ABR in 2025 and saw you were one of the speakers! Re off roading, I won a 2 day "Sweet Lamb Ducati Off road experience" in Wales in the new year, using Multistrada and the Desert X. You should perhaps do it to see if you like it before committing!
I have Desert X Rally and have done some of the Italian TET this summer, changed the tyres to Dunlop Trailmax Raids from the standard Pirelli’s. The Dunlops work almost as well as the Pirelli’s on the street but significantly more capable off-road. I’m 6’4” and the bike fits me perfectly, I also have no buffeting problems either. Try one, they are a superbly capable bike on and off-road, particularly using the different modes, Enduro off-road is spot on.
I hear you, but surely that kind of tour is going to take longer than (even) a long-distance tarmac trip. So if time away is the limiting factor, I'm not sure it is the answer - unless you stick to Wales, England and Scotland's superb roads and trails.
I went from a 2018 Super Adventure R to a 2021 Super Adventure S to a Desert X. It took 6 months to arrive (the crash bars a further 4) during which time the Rally was released - and they would have let me change my order but as you say with extras over £20K. But what I really couldn’t face was the seat height which was why I traded the SAR for the SAS - obviously not a problem for you. At the time I didn’t realise the rally seat on the standard DX (which I test rode for a day without noticing the seat height) is about the same as a Rally with the standard bikes two piece seat - which is why some of the Rallys at the Ducati school have the standard seat fitted. I would have gone for the Rally if I had realised (as I was thinking this would be my last new bike) - particularly as the suspension is supposed to be great over potholes. I don’t go off road properly just too expensive to drop but I suspect the standard DX would be just fine for non-extreme off roading (as its off road abilities was the original sales pitch). That said, I think getting a Rally and off roading in Europe would be fun and I’d watch it. Ducati’s are just cool.. although, TBH, much as I love mine to look at and in objective terms it is a great but expensive bike (basic DX plus “Audi paint”, off road pack, headed grips and spots over £17k) - probably because I don’t off road it, it isn’t that involving and my old Thruxton R with a cockpit fairing, uncomfortable lowered bars and even less power is sometimes taken out instead.
After loads of nakeds, sports bike and some adventure bikes, I came to the conclusion (as a one-bike owner) that the middle-sized sports tourers are the sweet spot. So I ordered the upcoming Triumph Tiger Sport 800. It should strike a balance between practicality and fun.
Do it! Check out Adventure Country Tracks (ACT...obvs). Less technical and more bigger bike friendly routes than some parts of the TET (ergo suitable for us less-skilled off-road riders on heavier machines). Sail to Santander and you can link the ACT Portugal route starting from Braganca south to the Algarve coast to some TET trails to get you diagonally East/North/East across to Cadaques on the Med. Then head back to Santander over the ACT Pyrenean Route (East to West...obvs). I did it on my 790 Adventure R and it was ace on the tarmac and ace on the trails, which on the ACT at least are deliberately selected for their unchallenging nature. I'm sure the Ducati would be as good as the KTM and maybe even better on the many excellent tarmac sections.
My '23 MT10SP was a brilliant bike, almost the best road bike I've had. But I don't actually miss it after getting a Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE and doing more gravel roads and seeing completely different things.
I rather suspect that the Honda Transalp would suit your projected needs, without being too much tech, and being a sensible price. Also, parts easily found in Europe. Totally with you on the WW2 history thing. I did Monte Cassino in the 90s! Unfortunately I’m a bit too old and creaky to do it again. So do it while you can, and for gawds sake, do it on a sensible bike! (Trust me on this!)
I've tried the regular version of Desert X a few times. The motorcycle is very fun to ride. Strong engine, well balanced, good looking. I was very close to buying one but didn't because of all the air turbulence when going at higher speeds. I would have bought the Rally variant immediately if I had longer legs.. (I am only 175 cm). I think you will have a lot of fun on a Rally. Buy it and go on an adventure! 🙂
Desert X is a lovely bike.... but i rode the Moto Guzzi V85TT the other day... it's quirky, and not market leading... but weirdly it made me feel great on, and off the road, I'm not sure it's up to a desert race, but i think it'd be at home trundling around the continent, and possibly worth you throwing a leg over. You'll struggle whichever way you go though in the power stakes after the mighty MT10
I’ve been riding an Aprilia Tuareg 660 for the past couple of years and it’s a great do-it-all bike. Motorway, A roads both good, B roads and tiny back lanes it loves, and off-road it’s great. But, if you need more power, maybe the DX will suit you better - you’ll be lugging an extra 20 kgs around though. You can get a low mileage, used Tuareg for around £7k now, which is also nice as you feel more relaxed dropping it. The biggest issue I’ve found with road/off-road biking is tires. It’s hard to find any good tire for the road that will cope with wet / boggy green lanes and TET. I’ve thought about it quite a lot and fancy doing the same sort of thing, but think a van and a light bike with pure off road tires would be the best fun - possibly even a Surron…
Tiger 900 Rally Pro, love mine, especially with the increased power and smoother engine than the 1st gen. Done some green lining on mine and its a beaut on the tarmac...
The Desert X Rally is definitely the boutique choice but what about the new F900 or Tiger 900 Rally now that they both have increased power? Not as sexy as the Duc, but both are premium bikes that run the gamut of disciplines you're looking to use it for without the trepidation of dropping it...
You’re not crazy. I’ve been thinking the exact same thing. My T100 is a great summer machine but riding it on my pot hole dirty slippery B roads is not much fun and then it’s a big clean up job when you get home. So yes, I too have been pondering this dilemma. Made harder as I can only have one bike. Many of my biker pals have 2 or 3 machines to choose from depending on the weather and type of riding. Not easy to choose in this sector as there’s a massive choice available. Good luck Tim and maybe I will be joining you on this journey.
So spooky, I've been thinking of things in almost the same way, however. Not having any experience of off road I figured I'd keep the MT and buy a second bike, something reasonable and cheap like the CF Moto MT 450. I can then start the off roadness in Wales wher I live. There's also part of the TET to explore........
Great video Tim, really chimes with me. I’ve been thinking about going to a street triple from a tiger! Look forward to seeing your Christmas tour and you at Abr.
I had a 2018 MT-10 with a de-cat pipe and stock can, it really tugged on your ear drums and I didn't like it, I put the cat back on but left the exhaust actuator disabled and wired open. That gave a better grumble at idle without damaging your ears. A full system designed with no-cat in mind may be quieter.
In my mind it's hard to beat the modern ADV bikes. They've come a long way since the Gen 1 & 2 KLR 650, DR 650, & XR650L. Not that there was anything wrong with those bikes in their day. ( I still have a 2018 Gen 2 on a lift with less than 100 miles. I'm tempted to see what it might be worth in three years. ) Now there are 150 HP ADV bikes that can incredibly mile munch . I had three of them and went back to simplicity with a Tenere 700. I'd had enough of the tech failing but if that stuff is important to a rider then there are some exciting options.
I tried the ADV thing, but it just wasn't for me. The bikes are tall and heavy. I'd rather have 1 naked and 1 dual sport/supermoto in the garage instead. I ride for fun, and the naked / supermoto combo is my favorite.
I bought my 790 Adventure, with the idea of doing 'light' green lanning. Haven't done as much as I'd like, but... Absolutely brilliant fun! Hardly any chance of loosing your license, great fun, fairly easy to do, you get too see amazing scenery etc. My bikes great on road too, but I understand your worries concerning KTM Haven't ridden a Desert X, have ridden a T7, didn't get on with it! Way too tall, narrow bars, not very confidence inspiring (IMO) Off road/green lanning? Highly recommended.
Mate- from one YT’er to another I suffer from the same afflictions. If you really only have the one Moto, then you owe it to yourself to grab another. It would be rude not to. The Ninja 1000SX is wonderful…. If you don’t want to be a human sail like 99% of all the other punters… I love mine. And if you must green lane, then I think the Taureg is hard to beat. But, so is the v2 Multi.. potentially a Goldilocks ride. So many decisions
Take a look at the 2019+ Multistrada 950s/V2s with spoke wheels. For green lane/light off-roading, these are quite capable. You’re not going to go as fast off-road, but they are way better on road.
It definitely adds another dimension to the channel so obviously I would say yes, an ADV off road abroad would be interesting however, if time is your limiting factor wouldn’t that whole off road thing slow up progress? Here’s something else, you should organise a group ride out with the appropriate war / history dynamic in the U.K. & near continent - I’d actually pay to attend a tour like that because you generally make me laugh…….in a good way 👍. I think your knowledge on the subject is also pretty interesting to me at any rate….
I am lucky enough to have a few bikes at the moment and also have had more than 35 bikes to date. The Desert X is quite possibly one of my favourite bikes I have ever had. Doing days 3 to 5 of the ACT Pyrenees in May on it. Cannot wait.
I do the same thing every year, and am currently thinking about what to replace my 890 Duke R with... What I'm not thinking of replacing is my 2024 Tiger 900 Rally Pro. If you're thinking about a Desert X, the Tiger has to be a consideration. Those were the bikes at the top of my list last year when I bought the Tiger. I rode both and liked both quite a bit. The Tiger ultimately was my choice for a few reasons, but I would have been happy either way I suppose.
You'll be riding right up to the WW2 bunkers now 🤣🤣. I'm less interested in the off road side of riding but understand where you're coming from and your videos will still be a hoot to watch (especially if you fall off 😁😁).
Good shout Tim. The Desert X is tall, heavy & a bit too powerful for off-road use. They're also expensive to drop & expensive to service (thanks to the engine's belts). Luggage options are a bit limited. I'd have one in a heartbeat! 🤣
How about the new Ducati V2 Multistrada? Looks good,enough power, light for an adventure type bike [ok it's not a true off road type but still good for green lanes].Worth a thought Tim. Me, I am well happy with my Tuono 1100.
I've pondered the Desert X - lovely looking bit of kit but I don't think I'd do much greenlaning on it. Too expensive when you inevitably drop it. Maybe keep the MT and getting a used Desert Sled? - they're apparently really quite good off-road with suitable tyres. I rode some of the TET from Calais in September. There's a lot of road sections and it's not terribly exciting. I then went down to the Ardennes which was better but quite muddy in places - not somewhere I wanted to get stuck by myself. Was on a CFMoto450 btw.
I sold my gen3 superduke r and bought the new triumph tiger 900 rally pro!great fun,lighter than the 1200,but quick enough and good on the road!havent been off road yet due to the stock tyres!
The DX Rallye is beautiful. But I prefer the standard DX because of the tubeless tires. Much easier to plug a tire than to remove the wheel to replace the tube. Not sure what the torque spec is on the DX rear axle, but on my 2016 PaniR I had a three foot breaker bar and a big 1/2” torque wrench to R&R the rear wheel.
I think the best tourers are the biggest ones with more wind protection but they are also heavy and expensive I’m in a fortunate position where I own a 1 litre naked and a big adventure bike. I’m tempted with something like a dessert x but will it be a comfortable place to be. GS 900 maybe so much to chose from. You could save your money and do it all on the mt10 though it’s more than a capable bike.
Get a standard desert x and save £3k, the rally one is… I dunno, it’s nice but there is something about putting ‘rally’ on the title of a bike, it just immediately gets consigned to riding through Chelsea stood up on the pegs looking for the nearest coffee shop to buy your ‘oat milk decaf, no foam water removed extra hot vegan no liquid latte’
@@timrodierides you’re better than that mate! And if you aren’t, just don’t tell anyone, and remember your kit all needs to be absolutely box fresh also, like it’s never seen an ounce of dirt or rain 😂😂
If I were only allowed one bike for the rest of my life, it’d be a desert X. I think it’s an incredible bit of kit, that can do anything, whilst still being awesome fun on the road. But I’ve ridden two, which were prepared by two different dealers (one in UK, and one here in France) and the UK one was superb, whereas the French one felt less taught…..even on all the same settings. Really looking forward to more “Histo-biking” vids with a WW2 lean 😃👍
Did just what you're pondering after a road trip crawling through the Dolomites at 30mph in traffic as far as the eye could see. Offroad trails are considerably quieter if not completely empty offering a whole new perspective with a different kind of danger thrown in, you will fall off. Dessert X is an expensive pudding.
I was seriously tempted by an MT10-Sp after watching you with yours, looks a hoot, was even contemplating trying to buy yours, but realised I couldn't really afford it, so started looking for an alternative, saw a couple of vids for a Voge DS900X and liked the idea as an old green lanner, and from the same company that make the BMW engine and the wife may get on the back occasionally, so thought I'd take a punt as getting annoyed with the slating Chinese items get, so, order placed and hopefully collecting this week, in the Black version, lets see if it is worth it at nearly half the price of a BMW.
Interestingly my son had an MT10 SP - full system, remap etc - lovely bike ! Traded in for a T7 raid (twin tank version) MT was costing too much on fuel - 100 miles on a tank if he was lucky 😂 He loves the T7, fantastic engine - MT was 100hp more than T7 but it’s not the power it’s the rider ! Still can’t keep up with him, mine is faster by a long way !
I bought the Multi V2S, in my opinion an upright sports tourer not an adventure bike, perfect package for the road if a little under powered for you. The new version looks interesting… PS. Off road, no thanks and I certainly wouldn’t take anything over 150kg off tarmac….the Desert X is great but it’s too heavy. By the way it’s soon to get a new much lighter engine…
Don’t do it Tim. The problem is you have to travel to get to the good off roading locations. If you lived in Portugal then it would be great. Instead save your money and head to the IomTT in 2025. And use the rest to fly / ride in Portugal, Spain or Morocco for off roading fun without the boring travel hassle.
ps, I am looking at a the honda crf 300 to do some TET riding, rather than selling my KTM and buying a whole new bike. (looking at second hand crf by the way)
From a happy subscriber’s point of view I have zero interest in you going off tarmac and onto the trails. Your bike reviews are spot on, I love the tours and all very keen on all the WW2 stuff and you’re local to me. There’s a touch of Clarkson in your presentation which is no bad thing. I’ve watched other channels go off piste onto the muddy trails and dark forests but I find it all a bit monotonous as all the scenery looks the same to me and everything happens very slowly. Get a Honda CRF 350 Rallye as a second bike and scratch your itch that way but keep a fast road bike please!
I’m surprised you haven’t considered the 900 rally pro you test road and said you were impressed by. ? And there’s something quite fitting about taking a Triumph to Europe to see WW2 sites .🙂
ah winters here , yup i agree about the 10 not worth the hassle , its an absolute beast in stock form and prob way too much for the road , i do love the x tho , but not sure you would be happy about dropping it tho
I'd go for it, it can only enhance your upcoming adventures and the Ducati sounds really capable. I'm interested to hear why you've seemingly discarded the standard GS.
Too big/heavy for the sort of off-roading that I'm doing in my head. The F900GS appeals though - I had a great time with that in Portugal earlier this year (video on this channel somewhere).
I say buy the new bike but its easy to say that when you are spending someone else's money! I have the same conundrum about swapping my bike every winter.
The truth is, there are off road bikes, and then the others…If you’re off roading, you need a built for purpose machine. Everything else is a compromise…Even big bikes, built for purpose, in the hands of riders with more aspiration than talent, will struggle on the TET. Because size matters…... If it’s gravel roads and fire tracks, most any adventure bike, with their increased suspension travel and fitted with the right tyres, will get it done imo. Ever heard of “ all the gear, no idea”…? Look forward to seeing your 2025 efforts…. -)
It feels like I've been waiting for ages since you said you were going to change your MT10SP (I have the same model). Now you change your mind! I feel badly let down...YT is not the place to be fickle. A decat with a baffled end can will not be too loud so why worry? It will still be a lot more powerful with an ECU reflash than stock.
Go and see George at Motorapido in Winchester. I bought one from them 2 years ago after they let me test ride one for at least an hour. Might of taken it off road while I was out on it. 😉 It’s an excellent bike. The only thing i found (I’m 6’5”) is the buffeting from the screen. I found it infuriating on long journeys. Probably can be sorted with a different one. (Ducati do one) Have a street fighter now. 😁
Kept my 09 sp and got a multi v4s I’m yet to ride a bike that equals the Ducati it’s so good at so many things won’t be taking it off-road though even though I’ve seen it’s capable 😂
@timrodierides usernamekate has a good video up too, I did watch both. That was my reference vids. Maybe you could try it out for yourself and make a decision? Good luck 👍
Oh mine sounds awful! It's a DJI lav mic straight into a GoPro media mod. It's all about mic positioning though… I think mine sucks, for what it's worth!
I brought a xj600 from 96 to tour on, cost me £1k iv done over 30k miles on it...i never understand why people spend £10k plus to tour...too scared to damage the bike, buy a cheap beater and you will have more fun. Save money to spend while you there. Ignore all the adventure people who use their bike for 2 months of the year
I don't think you'd find the Desert X exciting enough Tim (also really heavy to lug around, I think actually off-roading it would be tough) - looks gorgeous though!....if you can wait my review comes out on Feb 8th....
HOW are you so organised that you know it comes out on 8th February?! I may be suckered in by the looks, I agree. I used to love that engine in my Hypermotard for being a hooligan off crests, but I appreciate it's a slightly different tune in the Desert X. Hope you're keeping well!
I'd definitely not decat the MT10, just keep it standard before we're banned from most of Europe...I've had 3 MT10's and ride in all weathers...I just wash them and amazingly the dirt comes off lol...I don't get the logic of these adventure (I hate the name btw!) bikes of 15K upwards being immune to wet and crap lol..if you'd ride a 15K Adv bike in the rain and crap then why not any other bike? Personally if I wanted to ride green lanes and traverse the TET etc then I'd be looking at a CRF250L ( used to live Canada and had a WR250R which was infinitely better, but not available here sadly..)
I honestly think (they) we wouldn't keep your bike, in France, if you had it decat. You could be fined, though. And you rbike can definitely get confiscated if you're caught while speeding more than 50 kph over the limit. Generally speaking, if you're not being silly and behave like a human being during a check, the odds for being fined for loud-but-reasonable-enough pipe are quite low. Same thing for filtering : you shouldn't be fined if you don't behave like a jerk. I cannot talk for the Germans, though (and I would suspect it's a bit trickier, there).
I own a Desert X. Its sooo much fun. But only with the upmap and termi. Does mega wheelies now. You won't regret it. But get the exhaust. ... revs harder , intoxicating bang on upshift.. yet subtle when you want I to be. The Germans won't like it tho
sounds like you are at the stage in your life when you need to have 2 bikes. Keep the MT10 and get a second hand adventure bike. By doing that you won't need to have an Adventure bike that is also a sports bike. You already have one of those. Why have a super flash adventure bike you will be scared to use in case you drop it because you will be selling it and stuff the resale? Having a bike you are happy to drop, and you will drop it if you ride off-road opens up a whole other world to explore. By them to ride them as intended. Don't by a bike to sell it. Fear of causing damage is just a big handbrake to fun and exploring the world in the way you are thinking of. However, a cheap bike with a few scratches and dings are only reminders and memories of good the good times you had. Bikes used in this way become good friends and really have a way of getting under your skin.
I bought a GSA with every intention of dropping it in the dirt. Lasted 2 weeks before I dumped it in a sandy creek. Lots of protection available and everything is always fine. Crash bars and lever guards bend over time if used enough anyways. I think people can ride what they like for ADV bikes and not worry about dropping it.
@@ryanmalone2681 thanks for sharing your choice and good on you for that but it's not everyone's choice to routinely drop a 30 to 40k bike that when fitted with luggage weighs close to 300kg plus. That's why the GS isn't the only option on the market. But you continue to do you and you enjoy riding your way.
It’s a winter thing isn’t it? Our pride and joys get dirty and you can’t exploit them so we all think “if I had an adventure bike I won’t care as much..” but come the dry summer roads we’d have the same feelings of regret. The answer is at least 2 bikes, so I will keep doing the lottery 😅. I did ride to work last week, about 90 mins in the dark and, while cold, I felt safe and enjoyed it.
Amen to that 😂
Should have kept your 1290 even the s is pretty good off-road!
My 2nd ABR in 2025 and saw you were one of the speakers! Re off roading, I won a 2 day "Sweet Lamb Ducati Off road experience" in Wales in the new year, using Multistrada and the Desert X. You should perhaps do it to see if you like it before committing!
I have Desert X Rally and have done some of the Italian TET this summer, changed the tyres to Dunlop Trailmax Raids from the standard Pirelli’s. The Dunlops work almost as well as the Pirelli’s on the street but significantly more capable off-road. I’m 6’4” and the bike fits me perfectly, I also have no buffeting problems either. Try one, they are a superbly capable bike on and off-road, particularly using the different modes, Enduro off-road is spot on.
I hear you, but surely that kind of tour is going to take longer than (even) a long-distance tarmac trip. So if time away is the limiting factor, I'm not sure it is the answer - unless you stick to Wales, England and Scotland's superb roads and trails.
I went from a 2018 Super Adventure R to a 2021 Super Adventure S to a Desert X. It took 6 months to arrive (the crash bars a further 4) during which time the Rally was released - and they would have let me change my order but as you say with extras over £20K. But what I really couldn’t face was the seat height which was why I traded the SAR for the SAS - obviously not a problem for you. At the time I didn’t realise the rally seat on the standard DX (which I test rode for a day without noticing the seat height) is about the same as a Rally with the standard bikes two piece seat - which is why some of the Rallys at the Ducati school have the standard seat fitted. I would have gone for the Rally if I had realised (as I was thinking this would be my last new bike) - particularly as the suspension is supposed to be great over potholes. I don’t go off road properly just too expensive to drop but I suspect the standard DX would be just fine for non-extreme off roading (as its off road abilities was the original sales pitch). That said, I think getting a Rally and off roading in Europe would be fun and I’d watch it. Ducati’s are just cool.. although, TBH, much as I love mine to look at and in objective terms it is a great but expensive bike (basic DX plus “Audi paint”, off road pack, headed grips and spots over £17k) - probably because I don’t off road it, it isn’t that involving and my old Thruxton R with a cockpit fairing, uncomfortable lowered bars and even less power is sometimes taken out instead.
Thanks for the comment! I used to have an SAS, but I nearly exclusively used it on the road
After loads of nakeds, sports bike and some adventure bikes, I came to the conclusion (as a one-bike owner) that the middle-sized sports tourers are the sweet spot. So I ordered the upcoming Triumph Tiger Sport 800. It should strike a balance between practicality and fun.
The only sensible answer is two bikes.
Do it! Check out Adventure Country Tracks (ACT...obvs). Less technical and more bigger bike friendly routes than some parts of the TET (ergo suitable for us less-skilled off-road riders on heavier machines). Sail to Santander and you can link the ACT Portugal route starting from Braganca south to the Algarve coast to some TET trails to get you diagonally East/North/East across to Cadaques on the Med. Then head back to Santander over the ACT Pyrenean Route (East to West...obvs). I did it on my 790 Adventure R and it was ace on the tarmac and ace on the trails, which on the ACT at least are deliberately selected for their unchallenging nature. I'm sure the Ducati would be as good as the KTM and maybe even better on the many excellent tarmac sections.
My '23 MT10SP was a brilliant bike, almost the best road bike I've had. But I don't actually miss it after getting a Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE and doing more gravel roads and seeing completely different things.
I rather suspect that the Honda Transalp would suit your projected needs, without being too much tech, and being a sensible price. Also, parts easily found in Europe. Totally with you on the WW2 history thing. I did Monte Cassino in the 90s! Unfortunately I’m a bit too old and creaky to do it again. So do it while you can, and for gawds sake, do it on a sensible bike! (Trust me on this!)
I've been having exactly the same thoughts this week, I want a CRF300 Rally and learning off-road riding. It's clearly just a winter thing.
You should definitely consider the BMW F900GS too. Adam Rieman tests the clappers out of one. It performs well.
I went from a cb1000r to a triumph tiger 1200. I've never looked back, fast and fun.
I've tried the regular version of Desert X a few times. The motorcycle is very fun to ride. Strong engine, well balanced, good looking. I was very close to buying one but didn't because of all the air turbulence when going at higher speeds. I would have bought the Rally variant immediately if I had longer legs.. (I am only 175 cm). I think you will have a lot of fun on a Rally. Buy it and go on an adventure! 🙂
Desert X is a lovely bike.... but i rode the Moto Guzzi V85TT the other day... it's quirky, and not market leading... but weirdly it made me feel great on, and off the road, I'm not sure it's up to a desert race, but i think it'd be at home trundling around the continent, and possibly worth you throwing a leg over.
You'll struggle whichever way you go though in the power stakes after the mighty MT10
I’ve been riding an Aprilia Tuareg 660 for the past couple of years and it’s a great do-it-all bike. Motorway, A roads both good, B roads and tiny back lanes it loves, and off-road it’s great. But, if you need more power, maybe the DX will suit you better - you’ll be lugging an extra 20 kgs around though.
You can get a low mileage, used Tuareg for around £7k now, which is also nice as you feel more relaxed dropping it. The biggest issue I’ve found with road/off-road biking is tires. It’s hard to find any good tire for the road that will cope with wet / boggy green lanes and TET.
I’ve thought about it quite a lot and fancy doing the same sort of thing, but think a van and a light bike with pure off road tires would be the best fun - possibly even a Surron…
Tiger 900 Rally Pro, love mine, especially with the increased power and smoother engine than the 1st gen. Done some green lining on mine and its a beaut on the tarmac...
The Desert X Rally is definitely the boutique choice but what about the new F900 or Tiger 900 Rally now that they both have increased power? Not as sexy as the Duc, but both are premium bikes that run the gamut of disciplines you're looking to use it for without the trepidation of dropping it...
You’re not crazy. I’ve been thinking the exact same thing. My T100 is a great summer machine but riding it on my pot hole dirty slippery B roads is not much fun and then it’s a big clean up job when you get home. So yes, I too have been pondering this dilemma. Made harder as I can only have one bike. Many of my biker pals have 2 or 3 machines to choose from depending on the weather and type of riding. Not easy to choose in this sector as there’s a massive choice available. Good luck Tim and maybe I will be joining you on this journey.
So spooky, I've been thinking of things in almost the same way, however. Not having any experience of off road I figured I'd keep the MT and buy a second bike, something reasonable and cheap like the CF Moto MT 450. I can then start the off roadness in Wales wher I live. There's also part of the TET to explore........
Once you start hitting the lanes tarmac just becomes boring.. love my norden 901 expedition.
Remember your 1290sas? Imagine that with gravel tires😃. When my road6 are done on my 1290sas I will go gravel style🎉
More Tim Off Rodie adventures! Finally!
Great video Tim, really chimes with me. I’ve been thinking about going to a street triple from a tiger! Look forward to seeing your Christmas tour and you at Abr.
Consider a decent used Africa Twin I don’t think you’ll be disappointed perhaps you could then keep the MT10 also 🤔
I had a 2018 MT-10 with a de-cat pipe and stock can, it really tugged on your ear drums and I didn't like it, I put the cat back on but left the exhaust actuator disabled and wired open. That gave a better grumble at idle without damaging your ears. A full system designed with no-cat in mind may be quieter.
In my mind it's hard to beat the modern ADV bikes. They've come a long way since the Gen 1 & 2 KLR 650, DR 650, & XR650L. Not that there was anything wrong with those bikes in their day. ( I still have a 2018 Gen 2 on a lift with less than 100 miles. I'm tempted to see what it might be worth in three years. )
Now there are 150 HP ADV bikes that can incredibly mile munch . I had three of them and went back to simplicity with a Tenere 700. I'd had enough of the tech failing but if that stuff is important to a rider then there are some exciting options.
I tried the ADV thing, but it just wasn't for me. The bikes are tall and heavy. I'd rather have 1 naked and 1 dual sport/supermoto in the garage instead. I ride for fun, and the naked / supermoto combo is my favorite.
I bought my 790 Adventure, with the idea of doing 'light' green lanning.
Haven't done as much as I'd like, but...
Absolutely brilliant fun!
Hardly any chance of loosing your license, great fun, fairly easy to do, you get too see amazing scenery etc.
My bikes great on road too, but I understand your worries concerning KTM
Haven't ridden a Desert X, have ridden a T7, didn't get on with it!
Way too tall, narrow bars, not very confidence inspiring (IMO)
Off road/green lanning?
Highly recommended.
I understand your reservations about the current ktm instability, but the 890 adventure is the obvious bike for your requirements.
Definitely go for it , the ABR is excellent went for the first time this year.
Mate- from one YT’er to another I suffer from the same afflictions. If you really only have the one Moto, then you owe it to yourself to grab another. It would be rude not to. The Ninja 1000SX is wonderful…. If you don’t want to be a human sail like 99% of all the other punters… I love mine. And if you must green lane, then I think the Taureg is hard to beat. But, so is the v2 Multi.. potentially a Goldilocks ride. So many decisions
V strom 800 DE great bike some good deals on it now owned mine 12 months done 1200 on it in four days two up wife came along touring Scotland
Take a look at the 2019+ Multistrada 950s/V2s with spoke wheels. For green lane/light off-roading, these are quite capable. You’re not going to go as fast off-road, but they are way better on road.
It definitely adds another dimension to the channel so obviously I would say yes, an ADV off road abroad would be interesting however, if time is your limiting factor wouldn’t that whole off road thing slow up progress?
Here’s something else, you should organise a group ride out with the appropriate war / history dynamic in the U.K. & near continent - I’d actually pay to attend a tour like that because you generally make me laugh…….in a good way 👍. I think your knowledge on the subject is also pretty interesting to me at any rate….
I am lucky enough to have a few bikes at the moment and also have had more than 35 bikes to date. The Desert X is quite possibly one of my favourite bikes I have ever had. Doing days 3 to 5 of the ACT Pyrenees in May on it. Cannot wait.
I’m looking forward to your upcoming Vids. I’m off again to the Voges and hoping to nick some History locations etc. 😁👍😁
I'm thinking that you should look at a bike with a 19" front wheel considering your love of good road handling.
The voice of a true motor broadcarster! Clarkson would be proud
Do it! I am in exactly the same mindset as I have Tracer GT+ and want to do more off roading. I am thinking about the New Tuareg when it comes out.
Don't be silly Tim, MT10 all the way! Just borrow a press bike to do the offroad trip?
Haha maybe I'll keep it, but I like doing trips on my own bikes, not borrowed ones. I'm weird like that…
Desert X would be a good start.You will soon wonder what you saw in road riding?
I do the same thing every year, and am currently thinking about what to replace my 890 Duke R with...
What I'm not thinking of replacing is my 2024 Tiger 900 Rally Pro. If you're thinking about a Desert X, the Tiger has to be a consideration. Those were the bikes at the top of my list last year when I bought the Tiger. I rode both and liked both quite a bit. The Tiger ultimately was my choice for a few reasons, but I would have been happy either way I suppose.
You'll be riding right up to the WW2 bunkers now 🤣🤣.
I'm less interested in the off road side of riding but understand where you're coming from and your videos will still be a hoot to watch (especially if you fall off 😁😁).
Good shout Tim. The Desert X is tall, heavy & a bit too powerful for off-road use. They're also expensive to drop & expensive to service (thanks to the engine's belts). Luggage options are a bit limited. I'd have one in a heartbeat! 🤣
I'd definitely have a test ride on the new 2025 V2 Multistrada before deciding 🤘
How about the new Ducati V2 Multistrada? Looks good,enough power, light for an adventure type bike [ok it's not a true off road type but still good for green lanes].Worth a thought Tim. Me, I am well happy with my Tuono 1100.
I've pondered the Desert X - lovely looking bit of kit but I don't think I'd do much greenlaning on it. Too expensive when you inevitably drop it. Maybe keep the MT and getting a used Desert Sled? - they're apparently really quite good off-road with suitable tyres.
I rode some of the TET from Calais in September. There's a lot of road sections and it's not terribly exciting. I then went down to the Ardennes which was better but quite muddy in places - not somewhere I wanted to get stuck by myself. Was on a CFMoto450 btw.
I sold my gen3 superduke r and bought the new triumph tiger 900 rally pro!great fun,lighter than the 1200,but quick enough and good on the road!havent been off road yet due to the stock tyres!
The DX Rallye is beautiful. But I prefer the standard DX because of the tubeless tires. Much easier to plug a tire than to remove the wheel to replace the tube. Not sure what the torque spec is on the DX rear axle, but on my 2016 PaniR I had a three foot breaker bar and a big 1/2” torque wrench to R&R the rear wheel.
I think the best tourers are the biggest ones with more wind protection but they are also heavy and expensive I’m in a fortunate position where I own a 1 litre naked and a big adventure bike. I’m tempted with something like a dessert x but will it be a comfortable place to be. GS 900 maybe so much to chose from. You could save your money and do it all on the mt10 though it’s more than a capable bike.
@@iancharlton5530 I absolutely could not take an MT10 far off road 😂 I’ve done loads of touring on it though, and I know I’ll miss it!
Ps, in Switzerland you better not have a too loud exhaust. You're finished
Get a standard desert x and save £3k, the rally one is… I dunno, it’s nice but there is something about putting ‘rally’ on the title of a bike, it just immediately gets consigned to riding through Chelsea stood up on the pegs looking for the nearest coffee shop to buy your ‘oat milk decaf, no foam water removed extra hot vegan no liquid latte’
I mean… that's one of my intended use cases. So I'll definitely need the Rally then?!
@@timrodierides you’re better than that mate! And if you aren’t, just don’t tell anyone, and remember your kit all needs to be absolutely box fresh also, like it’s never seen an ounce of dirt or rain 😂😂
If I were only allowed one bike for the rest of my life, it’d be a desert X. I think it’s an incredible bit of kit, that can do anything, whilst still being awesome fun on the road. But I’ve ridden two, which were prepared by two different dealers (one in UK, and one here in France) and the UK one was superb, whereas the French one felt less taught…..even on all the same settings.
Really looking forward to more “Histo-biking” vids with a WW2 lean 😃👍
Did just what you're pondering after a road trip crawling through the Dolomites at 30mph in traffic as far as the eye could see. Offroad trails are considerably quieter if not completely empty offering a whole new perspective with a different kind of danger thrown in, you will fall off. Dessert X is an expensive pudding.
Removing emissions hardware on bikes = flute.
If you keep the MT just get the Yoshimura Street Series slip-on and a tune.
Kove 800x? Much cheaper, and lighter than any other middleweight, gives you less to worry about when it inevitably gets dropped.
I was seriously tempted by an MT10-Sp after watching you with yours, looks a hoot, was even contemplating trying to buy yours, but realised I couldn't really afford it, so started looking for an alternative, saw a couple of vids for a Voge DS900X and liked the idea as an old green lanner, and from the same company that make the BMW engine and the wife may get on the back occasionally, so thought I'd take a punt as getting annoyed with the slating Chinese items get, so, order placed and hopefully collecting this week, in the Black version, lets see if it is worth it at nearly half the price of a BMW.
Interestingly my son had an MT10 SP - full system, remap etc - lovely bike ! Traded in for a T7 raid (twin tank version) MT was costing too much on fuel - 100 miles on a tank if he was lucky 😂 He loves the T7, fantastic engine - MT was 100hp more than T7 but it’s not the power it’s the rider ! Still can’t keep up with him, mine is faster by a long way !
If it’s only one bike, and it’s light green laning and touring on roads etc….the 1250GS is calling 😂
Put some knobbly tyres on the MT? Certainly different….
I bought the Multi V2S, in my opinion an upright sports tourer not an adventure bike, perfect package for the road if a little under powered for you. The new version looks interesting…
PS. Off road, no thanks and I certainly wouldn’t take anything over 150kg off tarmac….the Desert X is great but it’s too heavy. By the way it’s soon to get a new much lighter engine…
I like the look of the Desert X, but I am put off by having to take the tank off to change the Air Filter ???
Don’t do it Tim.
The problem is you have to travel to get to the good off roading locations. If you lived in Portugal then it would be great. Instead save your money and head to the IomTT in 2025. And use the rest to fly / ride in Portugal, Spain or Morocco for off roading fun without the boring travel hassle.
ps, I am looking at a the honda crf 300 to do some TET riding, rather than selling my KTM and buying a whole new bike. (looking at second hand crf by the way)
Keep the mt10sp and get the desert x as a second bike ;)
From a happy subscriber’s point of view I have zero interest in you going off tarmac and onto the trails.
Your bike reviews are spot on, I love the tours and all very keen on all the WW2 stuff and you’re local to me. There’s a touch of Clarkson in your presentation which is no bad thing.
I’ve watched other channels go off piste onto the muddy trails and dark forests but I find it all a bit monotonous as all the scenery looks the same to me and everything happens very slowly.
Get a Honda CRF 350 Rallye as a second bike and scratch your itch that way but keep a fast road bike please!
I’m surprised you haven’t considered the 900 rally pro you test road and said you were impressed by. ?
And there’s something quite fitting about taking a Triumph to Europe to see WW2 sites .🙂
ah winters here , yup i agree about the 10 not worth the hassle , its an absolute beast in stock form and prob way too much for the road , i do love the x tho , but not sure you would be happy about dropping it tho
I'd go for it, it can only enhance your upcoming adventures and the Ducati sounds really capable. I'm interested to hear why you've seemingly discarded the standard GS.
Too big/heavy for the sort of off-roading that I'm doing in my head. The F900GS appeals though - I had a great time with that in Portugal earlier this year (video on this channel somewhere).
I say buy the new bike but its easy to say that when you are spending someone else's money! I have the same conundrum about swapping my bike every winter.
Go for it DDx a great choice with plenty of others…sounds like a plan..🤔😉
The truth is, there are off road bikes, and then the others…If you’re off roading, you need a built for purpose machine. Everything else is a compromise…Even big bikes, built for purpose, in the hands of riders with more aspiration than talent, will struggle on the TET. Because size matters…... If it’s gravel roads and fire tracks, most any adventure bike, with their increased suspension travel and fitted with the right tyres, will get it done imo. Ever heard of “ all the gear, no idea”…? Look forward to seeing your 2025 efforts…. -)
I think the MT10 is a great bike, but its too much for the road. That new MT09 is the sweet spot, the triple CP3 is arguably better than the CP4!
It feels like I've been waiting for ages since you said you were going to change your MT10SP (I have the same model). Now you change your mind! I feel badly let down...YT is not the place to be fickle. A decat with a baffled end can will not be too loud so why worry? It will still be a lot more powerful with an ECU reflash than stock.
Caught in finance on a 1250 gsa rallye but got the same mind maybe Norway
Norden looks cool too
900 gs?
Go and see George at Motorapido in Winchester. I bought one from them 2 years ago after they let me test ride one for at least an hour. Might of taken it off road while I was out on it. 😉 It’s an excellent bike. The only thing i found (I’m 6’5”) is the buffeting from the screen. I found it infuriating on long journeys. Probably can be sorted with a different one. (Ducati do one) Have a street fighter now. 😁
Do it but in white or better still go for the 890
Kept my 09 sp and got a multi v4s I’m yet to ride a bike that equals the Ducati it’s so good at so many things won’t be taking it off-road though even though I’ve seen it’s capable 😂
After seeing a couple of videos of the Triumph Tiger 1200 rally pro, I think for you, it'd be a good choice 👊🤙🤘
I've just watched Al Fagan from 44T sliding one around Wales and I can only imagine how hard I'd have been breathing!
@timrodierides usernamekate has a good video up too, I did watch both. That was my reference vids. Maybe you could try it out for yourself and make a decision? Good luck 👍
No thoughts on the Tiger 900 RP? Didn‘t you even do a review last year?
It would be a shame not to hear that crossplane come next year.
I know, I know! I still haven't got bored of it, and I've used it more than any other bike I've had in the past decade or so
What about a V -Strom 1050 de ?
Worth a look 🤔
Answers to your 3 bike questions :
Yes
Yes
Yes
I hope this helps.
Come on to old I’m 66 ride a pan America on road it’s a hoot I still think I’m 40 the only difference is you have to rain it in a bit, never give in
HI Tim, would you tell me what mic set up you use? Mine never sounds this good when I do helmet talk.. Or do you over dub it?
Oh mine sounds awful! It's a DJI lav mic straight into a GoPro media mod. It's all about mic positioning though… I think mine sucks, for what it's worth!
It'll never happen but for what you want to do all you need is a Honda XL750 Transalp and you could pick one up for £7k.
I brought a xj600 from 96 to tour on, cost me £1k iv done over 30k miles on it...i never understand why people spend £10k plus to tour...too scared to damage the bike, buy a cheap beater and you will have more fun. Save money to spend while you there. Ignore all the adventure people who use their bike for 2 months of the year
You basically want a Husky 701.
I don't think you'd find the Desert X exciting enough Tim (also really heavy to lug around, I think actually off-roading it would be tough) - looks gorgeous though!....if you can wait my review comes out on Feb 8th....
HOW are you so organised that you know it comes out on 8th February?! I may be suckered in by the looks, I agree. I used to love that engine in my Hypermotard for being a hooligan off crests, but I appreciate it's a slightly different tune in the Desert X. Hope you're keeping well!
Yes Desert-X. From a Multistrada V2S owner, the Desert-X is better and more fun
Get yourself the tracer9gt problem solved 😊
Tiger 900 Rally pro
I'd definitely not decat the MT10, just keep it standard before we're banned from most of Europe...I've had 3 MT10's and ride in all weathers...I just wash them and amazingly the dirt comes off lol...I don't get the logic of these adventure (I hate the name btw!) bikes of 15K upwards being immune to wet and crap lol..if you'd ride a 15K Adv bike in the rain and crap then why not any other bike? Personally if I wanted to ride green lanes and traverse the TET etc then I'd be looking at a CRF250L ( used to live Canada and had a WR250R which was infinitely better, but not available here sadly..)
Buy a 1390 and put some off road tyres on it😂
Almost certainly won't be able to insure one!
I honestly think (they) we wouldn't keep your bike, in France, if you had it decat. You could be fined, though. And you rbike can definitely get confiscated if you're caught while speeding more than 50 kph over the limit. Generally speaking, if you're not being silly and behave like a human being during a check, the odds for being fined for loud-but-reasonable-enough pipe are quite low. Same thing for filtering : you shouldn't be fined if you don't behave like a jerk. I cannot talk for the Germans, though (and I would suspect it's a bit trickier, there).
The Italian bikes are sexy, but a GS will be more comfortable.
I own a Desert X. Its sooo much fun. But only with the upmap and termi. Does mega wheelies now.
You won't regret it. But get the exhaust. ... revs harder , intoxicating bang on upshift.. yet subtle when you want I to be.
The Germans won't like it tho
sounds like you are at the stage in your life when you need to have 2 bikes. Keep the MT10 and get a second hand adventure bike. By doing that you won't need to have an Adventure bike that is also a sports bike. You already have one of those. Why have a super flash adventure bike you will be scared to use in case you drop it because you will be selling it and stuff the resale? Having a bike you are happy to drop, and you will drop it if you ride off-road opens up a whole other world to explore. By them to ride them as intended. Don't by a bike to sell it. Fear of causing damage is just a big handbrake to fun and exploring the world in the way you are thinking of. However, a cheap bike with a few scratches and dings are only reminders and memories of good the good times you had. Bikes used in this way become good friends and really have a way of getting under your skin.
I bought a GSA with every intention of dropping it in the dirt. Lasted 2 weeks before I dumped it in a sandy creek. Lots of protection available and everything is always fine. Crash bars and lever guards bend over time if used enough anyways. I think people can ride what they like for ADV bikes and not worry about dropping it.
@@ryanmalone2681 thanks for sharing your choice and good on you for that but it's not everyone's choice to routinely drop a 30 to 40k bike that when fitted with luggage weighs close to 300kg plus. That's why the GS isn't the only option on the market. But you continue to do you and you enjoy riding your way.
@ the point is the cost of the bike shouldn’t matter if you can throw protection on it and it’s fine. Just ride what you like….and don’t be obtuse.
@@ryanmalone2681 how can you tell when someone is vegan, or owns an i-phone or a GS.....they tell you 😅🤣😂
@ Replace GS with Multistrada and the point stands. Just because you can’t afford it…
If only Ducati see this and loans you a bike to go on tour with.