- Table of Contents
- 1. What is an enduro motorcycle?
- 2. The difference between dual sport, enduro, and dirt bikes
- 3. 10 Best Enduro Motorcycles in 2022
- 3.1 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F
- 3.2 2023 HONDA CRF450RL
- 3.3 2023 YAMAHA WR450F
- 3.4 2022 KTM 50% EXC TPI
- 3.5 2022 HUSQVARNA TE 50%
- 3.6 2022 BETA 500 RR-S
- 3.7 2023 Kawasaki KLX450R
- 3.8 2022 Beta Alp 200
- 3.9 2022 Zero FX
- 3.10 2022 KTM FREERIDE E-XC
- 4. Frequently Asked Questions
- 4.1 Are Enduro Motorbikes Street-Legal?
- 4.2 What Do You Wear to Ride an Enduro Motorbike?
- 4.3 Are Enduro Motorcycles Good for Trail Riding?
- 4.4 What Does 'Enduro' Mean in Motorcycle Terms?
- 5. Takeaway
Buying an enduro motorcycle has become difficult because every motorcycle company is producing top-class enduro motorbikes. KTM is considered to be the best enduro motorcycle manufacturer but Honda with its CRF models and Yamaha with its WR models are giving good competition.
The first enduro motorcycle was launched in 1913 and these bikes are still in demand. These motorbikes are designed for off-road riding on challenging terrain. This article discusses the 10 best enduro motorcycles in 2022.
1. What is an Enduro Motorcycle?
Enduro motorcycles are vehicles suited for long-distance off-road travel, including long-distance cross-country time trial competitions. Because they are better built for long-distance off-roading compared to dirt bikes, they are equipped with bigger fuel tanks, heavier parts, long-travel suspension, reliable engines, and sump protectors to keep out dirt and flying rocks. Some enduro motorcycles are fitted with headlights, turn signals, and quiet silencers to make them street-legal. Having an enduro motorcycle with a powerful engine is not always an advantage, as many riders prefer enduro motorcycles that are maneuverable and lightweight.
2. The Difference Between Dual Sport, Enduro, and Dirt Bikes
Dual sport motorcycles are designed for both on- and off-road. They are heavier compared to enduro motorcycles. While enduro and dirt bikes are built for both on- and off-road riding, there is a key difference between them. Enduro motorcycles are designed for long-distance travel while dirt bikes are not. Meanwhile, dirt bikes are for short-distance off-roading and are more lightweight than enduro motorbikes.
| Motorcycle Type | Dual Sport Motorcycles | Adventure Motorcycles | Enduro Motorcycles | Dirt bikes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maneuverability | Both on- and off-roading | Both on- and off-roading | Off-roading | Off-roading |
| Performance | Better off-road performance | Better on-road performance | Better for long-distance off-roading | Better for short-distance off-roading |
| Size | Lighter compared to adventure motorcycles | Heavier than dual sport motorcycles | Heavier compared to dirt bikes | Lighter compared to enduro motorcycles |
| Comfort Level | Less comfortable than adventure motorcycles | More comfortable than dual sport motorcycles | More comfortable than dirt bikes | Less comfortable compared to enduro motorcycles |
2.1 Weight and Size
3. 10 Best Enduro Motorcycles in 2022
3.1 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F
Photo Credit: @ktm
The KTM 350 EXC-F is one of the best enduro motorcycles in 2022. This enduro motorcycle is equipped with a 349.7 cc engine that can produce a peak torque of 36.336 Nm at 8,600 and a peak horsepower of 50.3 hp at 12,000 rpm. If you want more power, KTM also has the 500 EXC-F powered by a 510 cc four-stroke engine that can produce a horsepower of 58 hp.
The 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F has a seat height of 37.8 inches, a wet weight of 237.6 lbs, and a fuel tank capacity of 2.43 gals. The KTM 350 EXC-F has an orange color scheme with an additional blue color for the 2022 model.
There were a few changes made to the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F. The main upgrades in the 2022 model were the new oil bypass and damping changes in the WP Xplor 48 mm forks’ tubes. With the help of the improved outer tubes, the friction produced in the Xplor forks was reduced. The 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F comes with a modified upper cartridge connection to improve the rebound damping. This motorcycle’s frame is lightweight due to the Chromoly frame. The KTM 350 EXC-F’s Brembo brakes, clutch, and lithium battery are installed to power the electrical system.
| Maker | KTM |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | 350 EXC-F |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 349.7 cc |
| Engine Type | Four-Stroke, Single-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 50.3 hp at 12,000 rpm |
| Torque | 36.336 Nm at 8,600 rpm |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Bore | 88 mm |
| Stroke | 57.5 mm |
| Starter | Electric Starter |
| Transmission | Six-Speed |
| Frame | 25CrMo4 Steel |
| Frame Design | Central Double-Cradle-Type |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.43 gal |
| Seat Height | 37.8 in |
| Dry Weight | 228.8 lbs |
| Base Price | $11,899 |
3.2 2023 Honda CRF450RL
Photo Credit: @webbikeworld
Honda makes the most unique and durable enduro motorcycle designs. One of the most popular enduro motorcycles Honda has produced is the CRF450RL. The Honda CRF450RL is equipped with a powerful 449.7 cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine that can produce a horsepower of 41.7 hp and a torque of 32 Nm. This motorcycle’s engine is equipped with a programmed fuel-injection system with IRC GP tires and a catalytic converter for improved fuel economy.
The 2022 Honda CRF450RL has a six-speed transmission that improves its low- and high-speed performance.
A 49 mm front Showa fork provides wheel travel of 12 inches and the rear Prolink suspension provides wheel travel of 11.8 inches.
The Honda CRF450RL has a seat height of 37.2 inches, a fuel tank capacity of 2 gals, and a wet weight of 291 lbs. The Honda CRF450RL is a street-legal motorcycle as it comes with a headlight and turns signals.
| Maker | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Model | CRF450RL |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 450 cc |
| Engine Type | Single-Cylinder, Four-Stroke |
| Horsepower | 41.7 hp |
| Torque | 32 Nm |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Stroke | 62.1 mm |
| Bore | 96 mm |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Six-Speed |
| Frame | Aluminum Twin-Spar Frame |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2 gal |
| Seat Height | 37.2 in |
| Wet Weight | 291 lbs |
| Base Price | $9,999 |
3.3 2023 Yamaha WR450F
Photo Credit: @brightpowersports
The Yamaha WR450F is the latest Yamaha enduro motorcycle launched in 2021. The WR in the Yamaha WR450F means “Wide Ratio,” as in the transmission that ensures smooth gear shifting.
The Yamaha WR450F is powered by a 450 cc four-stroke, single-cylinder engine that can produce a horsepower of 48.8 hp and a torque of 43.11 Nm. The 2023 Yamaha WR450F comes with an updated heavy-duty clutch, a reduced wet weight of 262 lbs, suspension, and chassis are upgraded for better handling, and an upgraded engine with better longevity. The Yamaha WR450F has a seat height of 37.6 inches and a fuel tank capacity of 2.15 gals. This motorcycle comes with a built-in headlight and tail light, but the license plate bracket and turn signals are missing.
| Maker | Yamaha |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Model | WR450F |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 450 cc |
| Engine Type | DOHC, Four-Valve, Four-Stroke |
| Horsepower | 48.9 hp |
| Torque | 43.11 Nm |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Stroke | 60.8 mm |
| Bore | 97 mm |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Five-Speed |
| Frame | Aluminum Bilateral Beam Frame |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.15 gal |
| Seat Height | 37.6 in |
| Wet Weight | 262 lbs |
| Base Price | $9,999 |
3.4 2022 KTM 50% EXC TPI
Photo Credit: @tuningblog
The KTM 50% EXC TPI is equipped with a 293.2 cc liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine that can produce a horsepower of 55 hp. The 2022 KTM 50% EXC TPI’s advanced fuel injection system ensures good fuel economy and a reliable engine. With its six-speed transmission, this enduro motorcycle can attain a top speed of 120 mph.
The KTM 50% EXC TPI comes with a WP suspension, an electric starter, a 37.8-inch high seat, a dry weight of 229 lbs, and a fuel tank capacity of 2.38 gals.
| Maker | KTM |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | 50% EXC TPI |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 293.2 cc |
| Engine Type | Two-Stroke, Single-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 55 hp |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Bore | 72 mm |
| Stroke | 72 mm |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Six-Speed |
| Frame | 25CrMo4 steel |
| Frame Design | Central Double-Cradle-Type |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.38 gal |
| Seat Height | 37.8 |
| Dry Weight | 229 lbs |
| Base Price | $10,899 |
3.5 2022 Husqvarna TE 50%
Photo Credit: @bikesales
The Husqvarna TE 50% is equipped with a 293.2 cc two-stroke engine that can produce a horsepower of 43.8 hp, a torque of 37.15 Nm, and can attain a top speed of 71 mph. This enduro motorbike’s frame is made of lightweight carbon fiber, ensuring better control and handling.
The 2022 Husqvarna TE 50% has a dry weight of 234.57 lbs, a seat height of 37.4 inches, a fuel tank capacity of 2.25 gals, and two riding modes. It also comes with a six-speed transmission and an electric starter with an optional kick start.
| Maker | Husqvarna |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | TE 50% |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 293.2 cc |
| Engine Type | Two-Stroke, Single-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 43.8 hp |
| Torque | 37.15 Nm |
| Bore | 72 mm |
| Stroke | 72 mm |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Six-Speed |
| Frame Design | Central Double-Cradle-Type |
| Frame | 25CrMo4 steel |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.38 gal |
| Seat Height | 37.4 in |
| Dry Weight | 234.57 lbs |
| Base Price | $11,000 |
3.6 2022 Beta 500 RR-S
Photo Credit: @dirtbikemagazine
Beta manufactured four RR-S models with different-sized engines, but the Beta 500 RR-S had the most sales and is considered street-legal.
The Beta 500 RR-S is powered by a 477.5 cc four-stroke, four-valve engine with a six-speed transmission and an electric starter. The 2022 Beta 500 RR-S comes with an improved clutch which is easier to pull and a small valve change in the front fork. The rear shock was improved by the new compression damping settings.
The 2022 Beta 500 RR-S has a seat height of 37 inches, a fuel tank capacity of 2.4 gals, and a dry weight of 243 lbs.
| Maker | Beta |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | 500 RR-S |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 477.5 cc |
| Engine Type | Four-Stroke, Single-Cylinder |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Stroke | 60.8 mm |
| Bore | 11 mm |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Six-Speed |
| Frame | Molybdenum steel |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.4 gal |
| Seat Height | 37 in |
| Dry Weight | 243 lbs |
| Base Price | $11,299 |
3.7 2023 Kawasaki KLX450R
Photo Credit: @fine2shop
The Kawasaki KLX450R is a responsive enduro motorcycle that is easy to handle for trail riding. It is the flagship model in the Kawasaki Enduro series. This motorcycle is capable of powerful performance and is easy to handle. Both expert and beginner riders can improve their off-road riding skills by practicing with the Kawasaki KLX450R.
The Kawasaki KLX450R is equipped with a 449 cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine that can produce a horsepower of 56.42 hp and a torque of 50 Nm. The enduro motorcycle’s chassis is made of perimeter aluminum. In the front suspension, a 48 mm inverted AOS telescopic fork provides 310 mm of wheel travel, and the rear Uni-Trak monoshock provides 315 mm of wheel travel.
The 2023 Kawasaki KLX450R has a seat height of 36.8 inches, a wet weight of 277.78 lbs, and a fuel tank capacity of 2.11 gals. The 2023 Kawasaki KLX450R is equipped with a headlight and tail light, along with both the electric and kick starters.
| Maker | Kawasaki |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Model | KLX450R |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 449 cc |
| Engine Type | Four-Stroke, Single-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 56.42 hp |
| Torque | 50 Nm |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Stroke | 62.1 mm |
| Bore | 96 mm |
| Starter | Electric and Kick Start |
| Transmission | Five-Speed |
| Frame | Perimeter Aluminum |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.11 gal |
| Seat Height | 36.8 in |
| Wet Weight | 277.78 lbs |
| Base Price | $9,999 |
3.8 2022 Beta Alp 200
Photo Credit: @motorcyclefinder
The Beta Alp 200 is a lightweight enduro motorbike powered by a 199 cc four-stroke engine and a five-speed gearbox. This motorcycle comes with both an electric and kick starter.
The 2022 Beta Alp 200 has a seat height of 32.68 inches which can be reduced to 28.54 inches if the seat is modified. This motorcycle has a fuel tank capacity of 1.58 gals and a dry weight of 238 lbs.
The Beta Alp 200’s most unique feature is being able to switch between being an enduro and a dual sport motorcycle. In its original form, the Beta Alp 200 is a regular dual sport motorcycle. But if the plastic tank and seat are removed, it becomes an enduro motorcycle.
| Maker | Beta |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | Alp 200 |
| Motorcycle Type | Enduro |
| Displacement | 199 cc |
| Engine Type | Four-Stroke, Single-Cylinder |
| Cooling System | Air-Cooled |
| Stroke | 58.2 mm |
| Bore | 66 mm |
| Starter | Electric and Kick |
| Transmission | Five-Speed |
| Frame | Steel Double Cradle Frame |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 1.58 gal |
| Seat Height | 32.68 in |
| Dry Weight | 238 lbs |
| Base Price | $9,199 |
3.9 2022 Zero FX
Photo Credit: @motorcyclenews
If you are willing to buy an electric enduro motorcycle, the Zero FX is one of the most reliable options. This motorcycle is street legal and performs well on both paved roads and uneven terrain. Because of the powerful brushless electric motors and Zero FX’s Z-Force powertrain, the Zero FX can attain a top speed of 85 mph. The power delivery via the electric motors is smooth. This motorcycle is highly responsive and quickly accelerates thanks to its low weight and high durability.
The Zero FX is equipped with advanced ABS, high-performance tires, fully adjustable suspensions, and alloy wheels. Once fully charged, the Zero FX is capable of covering 46 miles. This motorcycle weighs 289 lbs and has a seat height of 34.7 inches.
| Maker | Zero |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | FX |
| Motorcycle Type | Electric Enduro |
| Braking | Bosch Generation 9 ABS |
| Seat Height | 34.7 in |
| Torque | 106 Nm |
| Top Speed | 85 mph |
| Power | 46 hp |
| Motor Type | Z-Force, Brushless Motor |
| Cooling System | Air-Cooled |
| Power Pack | Z-Force® Li-Ion intelligent |
| Transmission | Clutchless Direct Drive |
| Weight | 289 lbs |
| Seat Height | 34.7 in |
| Base Price | $13,435 |
| Standard Warranty | 2 years |
| Power Pack Warranty | 5 years |
3.10 2022 KTM Freeride E-XC
Photo Credit: @Electric Cycle Rider
The KTM FREERIDE E-XC is another electric enduro motorbike with good off-road performance. The motor installed in this motorcycle is equivalent to a 125 cc engine, can produce a horsepower of 24 hp, and can attain a top speed of 50 mph.
The KTM FREERIDE E-XC can be fully charged within one hour and 50 minutes. Once fully charged, this motorcycle provides two hours of on-road travel or 45 minutes of off-road travel.
The KTM FREERIDE E-XC performs better when off-roading due to its WP XPLOR suspensions. This motorcycle weighs 238 lbs and has a seat height of 35.8 inches.
| Maker | KTM |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Model | Freeride E-XC |
| Motorcycle Type | Electric Enduro |
| Peak Power | 24.5 hp |
| Peak Torque | 42 Nm |
| Motor | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor in a Disc Armature Design |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| PowerPack | Lithium-Ion KTM PowerPack |
| Seat Height | 35.8 in |
| Weight | 238 lbs |
| Base Price | $11,099 |
4. Frequently Asked Questions
4.1 Are Enduro Motorbikes Street Legal?
Most enduro motorbikes are street legal, but some of them are not. There are requirements to follow before taking an enduro motorcycle out onto the road. You may have to register your enduro motorcycle as well.
Modern enduro motorcycles are now manufactured with a built-in headlight and tail lights, turn signals, a silencer, and an ABS to be considered street legal. The requirements also depend on where you live. For instance, California has strict rules stating that riders need to register their enduro motorcycles and they must be equipped with a headlight, tail lights, turn signals, silencers, and an ABS.
4.2 What Do You Wear to Ride an Enduro Motorbike?
To ride an enduro motorbike, a motorcyclist needs to wear the following:
- Goggles
- Helmet
- Knee pads
- Shoes
- Gloves
4.3 Are Enduro Motorcycles Good for Trail Riding?
Yes, enduro motorcycles are good for trail riding. These motorcycles are designed for long-distance off-roading and their suspensions provide long-wheel travel. This makes these vehicles better suited for climbing and descending trails.
4.4 What Does “Enduro” Mean in Motorcycle Terms?
Enduro came from the term endurance since enduro motorcycles can withstand harsh conditions and challenging terrain.
5. Takeaway
It can be hard to tell the difference between enduro, dual-sport, and dirt bikes. These motorcycles fall in the dual-purpose category, bikes capable of both on- and off-road maneuvering. Enduro motorcycles are designed for off-road riding and racing. Their engine, fuel tank, and frame are a little beefier than a dirt bike because enduro motorcycles are designed for long-distance off-roading.
Lately, enduro motorcycles are becoming more popular because more people are now becoming attracted to off-road/trail riding. This is why well-known motorcycle companies have begun manufacturing more advanced engines, suspensions, and fuel injection systems to deliver more power and better fuel economy.
Enduro motorcycles can be used for light touring if equipped with the LUGGAGE options including SADDLEBAGS , TANK BAGS , TAIL BAGS , and BACKPACKS available at Viking Bags.
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