Best 2024 Dual Sport Motorcycles | Top Models and Features
Dual sport motorcycles in 2024 are pushing boundaries like never before, blending the best of on-road agility and off-road ruggedness. These bikes are engineered for adventure, allowing riders to effortlessly transition from city streets to dirt trails without missing a beat. With cutting-edge tech, powerful yet efficient engines, and enhanced versatility, the 2024 lineup promises unmatched performance and freedom. Whether you’re a weekend trailblazer or a daily commuter looking for a versatile machine, these dual sport motorcycles are ready to handle it all. Get ready for a ride that’s equal parts thrill and capability.
#1 KTM 500 EXC-F
The KTM 500 EXC-F is like the rebellious sibling in the dual-sport family. It doesn’t just meet expectations—it shatters them. With a 510.9cc engine putting out 40.5 HP, this bike has power to spare. What makes it unique is its supercross-level suspension travel, making it feel more at home launching off dirt mounds than cruising city streets. At just 255 lbs, the EXC-F handles with an agility that defies its size, perfect for riders who need off-road dominance but still want to take their machine home via public roads.
One of its standout features is the WP Xplor shocks, with an impressive 11.8 inches front and 12.2 inches rear travel—this bike practically dares you to find terrain it can’t handle. The high ground clearance ensures you’ll clear even the rockiest paths without worry. KTM didn’t just slap lights on a dirt bike and call it a day; they’ve crafted a machine that makes the leap from trail to tarmac seamless.
Where the EXC-F might not shine is comfort on longer road trips. The seat and road manners are unapologetically biased toward off-road performance. Standing on the pegs for most of your ride is more of an expectation than a recommendation. If your priority is conquering trails and treating pavement as a means to get there, this is your dream bike.
#2 Honda CRF450RL
The Honda CRF450RL is the dual-sport bike for those who crave reliability in every rev. Honda’s been synonymous with longevity, and this model is no exception. With a 450cc engine packed into a twin-spar aluminum frame, the CRF450RL is as solid as they come. It features a fuel-injected engine, Showa suspension, and enough torque to eat up off-road challenges without breaking a sweat.
But don’t let its off-road chops fool you—2024 dual sport motorcycles like the CRF450RL are equally at ease on the streets. The black D.I.D rims and factory handguards not only look slick but are incredibly practical. One of its crowning features is its fuel mileage meter, which shows current consumption in real time, giving riders more control over their fuel efficiency on long trips. It’s one of those bikes that adapts, whether you’re navigating tight forest paths or cruising highway miles.
However, there is a bit of a learning curve with its 2-gallon titanium fuel tank, which may feel limiting if you’re tackling a long-distance adventure. But for those who like to push boundaries without compromising on quality, the Honda CRF450RL stands tall in 2024.
#3 Beta 500 RS
If you want a bike that feels like an extension of your body, the Beta 500 RS is calling your name. Known for its nimbleness, the Beta 500 RS marries a 478cc engine with a lightweight frame, tipping the scales just enough to make you forget it’s packing serious power. The Sachs suspension is a dream on rugged terrain, handling rocks, roots, and ruts without blinking. In addition, its Trail Tech Voyager GPS adds a layer of confidence for those adventuring into the unknown.
One feature that sets Beta apart is its techno-polymer subframe, which offers an incredible strength-to-weight ratio, ensuring durability without sacrificing agility. The bike’s Nissin brakes give it stopping power that feels precise and confidence-inspiring on steep descents or emergency stops. Despite its size, the 500 RS feels surprisingly nimble, offering smooth yet powerful open-class torque for a thrilling yet controllable ride.
One minor downside is the bike’s 2.4-gallon tank, which might feel limiting on longer trips without a stop for refueling. But if your focus is on hard-hitting trail performance with a side of street legality, the Beta 500 RS is an outstanding option.
#4 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure
The Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure is the workhorse of the dual-sport world. It’s built to be practical, durable, and, most importantly, affordable. At $7,899, you’re getting a 652cc engine that’s known for its toughness and versatility. The long-distance comfort makes it a favorite for riders who crave adventure but don’t want to break the bank. Whether you’re commuting or exploring backcountry trails, this bike is as reliable as a Swiss watch.
The KLR650 features a larger 6.1-gallon fuel tank, which is a godsend for those who hate frequent stops. The wind protection, ample storage options, and adventure-specific upgrades like the bash plate and handguards mean you’re ready for almost anything. Revised suspension ensures that you can handle the bumps and ruts without sacrificing comfort, making this bike a reliable companion for any journey.
That said, the KLR650 is not as performance-focused as some of the higher-end options. It’s more of a jack-of-all-trades, master of none. But for those who want a solid, long-lasting bike with minimal fuss, this Kawasaki legend holds strong.
#5 Suzuki DR-Z400S
The Suzuki DR-Z400S has become a cult favorite among dual-sport enthusiasts for a reason: it’s got the right mix of power, agility, and affordability. At $7,199, the DR-Z400S is powered by a 398cc water-cooled engine, and while that might seem modest, this bike delivers where it matters—usability. With an 11.3-inch travel front suspension and 11.6 inches in the rear, this bike is designed for serious off-road challenges while remaining nimble enough for city streets.
One of its biggest advantages is its dual-disc brakes, offering better stopping power than many of its competitors. The 2.6-gallon fuel tank gives you enough range for most off-road adventures without being cumbersome. It’s a bike you can take to the dirt track one day and ride through city traffic the next, making it incredibly versatile for a dual-sport machine.
The only downside is that it’s slightly underpowered for extended highway use. It’s great for short spurts on the pavement but might struggle at higher speeds over long distances. Still, for its price and capability, the DR-Z400S is hard to beat.
#6 GasGas ES350
For riders who crave lightness and agility, the GasGas ES350 is the perfect partner. Weighing in at 239 lbs and featuring a 350cc engine, this dual-sport motorcycle is an all-rounder with exceptional balance. The WP Xplor suspension and Continental TKC 80 tires keep the ES350 nimble on dirt, while its street-legal status ensures you can ride to the trailhead without needing a truck.
Its 50-state legal status and modern features, including tool-free suspension adjustability, make it a versatile choice for riders who like to mix street and dirt riding seamlessly. 2024 dual sport motorcycles like this continue to impress with their anti-squat frame design, which ensures better handling and weight distribution on uneven terrain, making it perfect for technical off-road trails.
That said, it might not be the best for extended highway rides. The 9-liter tank gives it a decent range, but its true home is in the dirt, where it performs beautifully. If you’re seeking an agile bike that thrives on the toughest trails, the GasGas ES350 is worth considering.
#7 Husqvarna FE350S
The Husqvarna FE350S has long been a favorite for riders looking for a well-rounded dual-sport bike that doesn’t sacrifice performance for comfort. With a new 350cc engine and updated frame for 2024, it’s lighter, more powerful, and more balanced than ever. Husqvarna’s approach has always been about precision, and the Braktec brakes, combined with WP XACT suspension, provide top-notch handling in all conditions.
What sets the FE350S apart is its mass centralization. Husqvarna has tilted the engine for better weight distribution, which means this bike feels stable even in the gnarliest off-road conditions. The lightweight swingarm and tool-free adjustable rear shock further enhance its versatility, making it a top pick for serious dual-sport riders.
While the $12,599 price tag may seem steep, the combination of power, comfort, and handling justifies it. It’s an investment in a machine that feels intuitive whether you’re on asphalt or dirt.
#8 Sherco 500SEF Factory Dual-Sport
The Sherco 500SEF is a bit of an underdog in the world of dual-sports, but make no mistake—this bike is a serious competitor. With a 500cc dual-overhead-cam engine, Brembo brakes, and a hydraulic clutch, it’s built for riders who demand high performance in every corner. The Akrapovic exhaust ensures that it meets EPA regulations without compromising power, giving you the best of both worlds in terms of legality and raw performance.
Its KYB suspension and hydraulic clutch make it a pleasure to ride in tough conditions, while the lean ECU settings and air filter ensure it passes emissions standards with flying colors. The radiator fan helps keep things cool when the going gets tough, making this an exceptional choice for serious off-road riders.
For those looking for a top-tier machine with every feature a serious rider performance can dream of, the Sherco 500SEF stands tall. It may not be as mainstream as KTM or Honda, but for those in the know, it’s a bike worth considering for its power, precision, and ability to tackle the gnarliest trails.
