Best A2-licence adventure bikes

In recent times the image of the modern adventure bike has been characterised by big, litre-class models like the all-conquering BMW R 1300 GS. More recently middleweight models like the Yamaha Ténéré 700and Honda XL750 Transalp have grown in popularity. But now a more accessible – and affordable – cohort is landing on the scene in the shape of the latest A2 licence compatible adventure bikes, ideally suited to younger riders on a budget or those just looking for something more manageable.
Check our top 10 picks below for an idea of the sheer diversity of bikes fitting this description, the class set to grow further with new arrivals like the exciting BSA Thunderbolt and Kawasaki KLE500. For all their differences in mechanical layout and spec all share the same common thread of A2-licence power outputs, adventure bike versatility and comfortable upright riding positions in a package friendly to both beginners and experienced riders alike. Here are 10 of our favourites, in ascending order of price…

The TRK 502 may now be getting on somewhat but it also remains versatile, and great value for money. Chinese-built after QJMotor bought the brand out of liquidation, the TRK is Italian-designed and based around a worthy but slightly unrefined 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin hitting the A2 regulated 47hp. This is housed in a substantial tubular steel trellis frame for genuine big bike stature. Two versions are offered, comprising the base TRK with cast road wheels and tyres and the more off-road-looking X with larger wire wheels and extra crash protection. It’s a worthy rather than impressive performer, some aspects like the LCD clocks now seem dated and it’s a little basic and unrefined. But it’s also proven, practical, A2-compliant, decent-looking and carries a classic badge.
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If you’re serious about off-roading KTM should always be in the mix, its recently updated ‘junior’ 390 Adventure proof of why that is. First launched in 2020, it’s an adventure twist on KTM’s punchy 390 Duke. As such it’s based around the same 45 horsepower single and tubular trellis frame with decent quality cycle parts, this time including adventure sized wheels, longer-travel WP suspension and adventure bodywork. The original was very much a more upright Duke but didn’t actually have the true off-road prowess KTM is famous for. With this update that’s changed. The base X version is still very much the novice-friendly, road-orientated bike it was before. But the new R version is now a more serious off-roader with 21-inch front wheel, better suspension and the nimble handling to match its punchy, lightweight performance.
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Voge is the premium motorcycle brand from Chinese giant Loncin. It first came to prominence with the DS900X fitted with the engine Loncin builds for BMW for its similar F 900 GS and the DS525X is its similar looking A2-licence equivalent. Visually it’s quite similar to the 900 – it’s a comparatively big and roomy bike – but it’s lighter and with a lower seat height to suit ‘newbies’ and its 494cc parallel twin runs right up to the 47 horsepower A2 limit. Like the 900 the spec is good, too, with a big TFT dash, two power modes, switchable traction control and ABS, Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary lights, crash bars, centre stand, adjustable screen, wire wheels, 12V and USB sockets. Even the cycle parts are decent, with Metzeler Tourance tyres, Nissin brake calipers and (fully adjustable) KYB suspension. Proven reliability, extended service intervals, a touch of refinement and brand snobbery aside, it wants for nothing.
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Yes, another very tempting Chinese offering building on the success these brands have had in the middleweight adventure category. This is now spreading to the A2 level, CFMoto building on its technical partnership with KTM to produce bikes in its own name. Many of which are really rather good. The 450MT is one of its latest and is an off-road capable parallel-twin with steel trellis frame, impressive spec and, once again, a truly remarkable price tag. It’s powered by a 449cc parallel-twin with a 270-degree firing order for that V-twin vibe, produces a very credible 42hp, weighs just 175kg, is well-equipped and combines novice-friendly manners with true off-road ability backed up by wire wheels and quality suspension. Unlike some Chinese bikes even comes with an extended four-year warranty. What’s not to like?
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Indian brand Royal Enfield took a major step up from its signature air-cooled retros with the liquid-cooled and monoshocked Himalayan 450, scooping a deserved sales hit in the process for its combination of affordability, A2-compliant accessibility, versatility and genuine off-road ability. The brand also has the kind of dealer support network many of the Chinese rivals lack, as well as a formidable heritage. True, this more modern Enfield has lost a little of the retro charm of its forebears, it can’t match the tech and spec of some rivals, it’s not as cheap as some and it’s nothing like as punch as an equivalent KTM or Triumph. But it’s a good all-round compromise and delivers what it promised.
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Along with Honda, BMW was one of the first big manufacturers to launch a dedicated A2-level range of adventure bikes, including the Indian-built single-cylinder G 310 R and GS manufactured by TVS, which now owns Norton. Both are based around a fairly soft, liquid-cooled, ‘back to front’ 313cc single cylinder producing an unexciting sounding 34 horsepower. The R is a straightforward naked roadster, the GS a more adventure style machine with fairing and higher bars. Both were updated slightly in 2021. In truth, neither are particularly inspiring, lacking the performance and spec compared with the new crop of Chinese rivals, but they are easy and unintimidating, reasonably refined and decent value for money. Even at this level the BMW badge and all that it brings in terms of customer service and peace of mind are a big draw, though.
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Triumph’s 400 family arrived in 2024 aimed squarely at new and A2 riders, initially as the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X and to deserved success. The all-new 398cc liquid-cooled single is a class act producing a genuine 40 horsepower, both bikes have typically polished Triumph handling and for all the talk of Indian manufacturing by partner Bajaj it has an air of class about it. For 2026 there’s a new XC, which is at heart a more off-road version of the Scrambler X with wire wheels including a 19-inch front, high mudguard, bash plate, fly screen and more. It’s a genuine off-roader, if not quite a true adventure bike. But when something’s this good, who cares?
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Another one for the adventure ‘purists’ – but also one so good we couldn’t ignore it here. The CRF300L Rally is essentially a ‘rally’ version of the Honda CRF300L trail bike with a bigger tank, fairing and other detail changes to add some long-distance appeal to go with its already brilliant off-road credentials. Both were introduced in 250 form before being updated and enlarged to 300cc (actually 286cc) in 2021. As such, the emphasis is more on dirt than road, which is something to be remembered here. Off-road it’s better than most – but if that’s what you want get the base CRF300L. On road its 27 horsepower single-cylinder motor is a little lacking compared to some and it’s also a little lightweight and insubstantial. It’s also quite pricey for what it is. But if its virtually unique promise appeals, you won’t be disappointed.
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So new we haven’t actually ridden it yet but also so significant and tempting we had to include it here. The F 450 GS is BMW’s all-new A2 adventure offering based around an all-new, 420cc parallel-twin nudging right up against the class limit with its 48 horsepower and 43Nm. It also has 19-inch/17-inch wire wheels, weighs just 178kg and has novice-friendly features like BMW’s optional Easy Ride clutch to appeal to those who want a genuinely off-road capable adventure bike. Sure, it’s unlikely to be as touring friendly and well-equipped as some of the Chinese twins, but as a credible off-roader with great twin cylinder power it’s sure to be a fascinating addition to the class.

Arguably still the best and most definitive A2-compliant adventure bike of them all. Honda’s brilliant NX500 was launched alongside the similarly powered CB500F roadster and CBR500R sportster way back in 2013 as all-new bespoke A2 offerings. And, with an on-limit 47hp, 471cc twin-cylinder engine they offered great but still user-friendly performance, decent manners, great spec and affordable pricing thanks to cost-effective Thai production. All have been big sellers, and have been repeatedly updated and improved with the latest, in 2024, also seeing the previous CB500X renamed as the NX500. The result may not be as convincing an off roader as a KTM or CRF, but it’s a brilliant, friendly, proven all-rounder with all the spec you need. In fact, for 2026, it now also comes with Honda’s clever, novice-friendly E-Clutch system, too. The NX may not be the most exciting, but it does it all and, everything considered is probably the best.
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