Best mid-size Adventure Motorcycles in the Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes that are perfect for adventure riding. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, there are many adventure motorcycles that are suitable for exploring the country’s mountains, beaches, and rural areas. Here are some of the best mid-sized adventure motorcycles available in the Philippines:

1. Honda X-ADV: The Honda X-ADV is a versatile adventure motorcycle that is perfect for urban commuting and off-road adventures. It has a powerful engine, good ground clearance, and a comfortable riding position.
2. BMW F 850 GS: The BMW F 850 GS is a high-performance adventure motorcycle that is perfect for long-distance touring and off-road riding. It has a powerful engine, excellent suspension, and advanced electronics that make it easy to handle.
3. Yamaha Tenere 700: The Yamaha Tenere 700 is a lightweight adventure motorcycle that is perfect for off-road adventures. It has a responsive engine, excellent suspension, and a comfortable riding position that makes it ideal for long rides.
4. KTM 790 Adventure: The KTM 790 Adventure is a high-performance adventure motorcycle that is perfect for off-road riding. It has a powerful engine, advanced electronics, and excellent suspension that makes it easy to handle in any terrain.
5. Kawasaki Versys-X 300: The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a lightweight adventure motorcycle that is perfect for beginners or riders who prefer a smaller bike. It has a comfortable riding position, good ground clearance, and a responsive engine that makes it easy to ride. *Not expressway legal as under 400cc.

These are just some of the best adventure motorcycles in the Philippines. There are many other options available depending on your preferences, riding style, and budget.

Other great mid-sized motorcycles very worthy of consideration are:

1. Kawasaki Versys 650 (1000SE is fantastic value for money, but it’s in the ‘large’ category).
2. Kawasaki VulcanS 650 (a mid-sized cruiser with forward controls and peppy parallel twin ninja engine)
3. Kymko AK550 Maxi Scooter (OK its a big scooter but very comfortable on long rides two-up and very well built)
4. Suzuki V-Strom 650 great value for money, reliable and very capable motorcycle.
5. Honda CBX500 has bullet-proof Honda reliability, is comfortable, lightweight and has excellent ground clearance.

Leave your ego at home

I’ve been riding in the Philippines for over 10 years, and I have pretty much covered the majority of islands on motorcycle tours. Of course there can be no substitute for power (when it’s needed) and the low revs on expressways you get from larger bikes is pure riding pleasure.

Random me over the last few years around Philippines…

BUT when it’s hot, there’s traffic or poor roads, big bikes are a pain in the arse! Any older rider with experience will reach a point when they just can’t be bothered with the sheer WEIGHT of a big bike anymore.

Some of my most enjoyable rides over recent years (including during COVID lockdowns) have been on 500cc-800cc motorcycles. Plenty of power, nimble and easy on me as a start to feel my age! My personal favourite is the KTM 790 Adventure. The standard “S” has the more comfortable seat, slightly higher ride height and bigger windsheild. The “R” has adjustable suspension (really not needed unless you’re a diva) smaller windshield, higher front mudguard and skinny hard seat. Luckily you can bespoke both models to your liking. The “Rally Mode” is what you will probably spend 99% of your time in. Standard on the “R” so get it added as an option on the “S” along with Quickshifter+