Having previous considered small and medium-sized motorcycles, we now move on to the ‘big hitters’ of the adventure world. Here, the many all-terrain, crossover, enduro and sport touring models that manufacturers will start selling later this year (some are already available). Let us know if we’ve overlooked any!
Maxi Bikes
BMW R 1250 GS
The 2022 version remains almost identical to its predecessor, except for a few small details. Updates are expected in the near future.
BMW K 1600 GTL
This BMW six-cylinder GT boasts some important new features for 2022. These include electronic suspension with automatic load-based balancing, an adaptive cornering LED headlamp, and a dashboard that centres around an impressive 10” TFT maxi-screen. A state-of-the-art 2.0 audio system also comes as standard.
The engine delivers 160 HP and presents a maximum torque value (180Nm) that exceeds that of the previous K1600. The powertrain also features drag torque control (MSR). Available in three colours, the bike is already available for purchase.
DUCATI Multistrada V2
The Multistrada gateway model, the V2 is powered by the 950 cc Testastretta 11°, which is revised not only in terms of its Euro 5 approval. Ducati has also modified the gearing and clutch in order to ensure ultimate performance. Additional features include the trellis frame, double-sided alloy swingarm, and 19” front wheel. Significant investment in the new model’s ergonomics makes for a more comfortable and safe ride, with a complete package of rider assist systems, electronic suspension and four riding modes.
The design stands out for its clean lines, imposing overall shape and refined graphics. Now narrower and closer to the ground (compared to the old 950), the seat is new, as are the tail section, engine covers, hand guards, rear-view mirrors and footpegs.
DUCATI DesertX
This motorcycle marks the manufacturer’s first foray into the maxi-enduro market, one characterised by all-terrain models that are equally at home on the asphalt as they are in the African dunes. It mounts an L twin engine, specifically the 937 cc Testastretta 11° complete with all the mechanical improvements introduced by Ducati on the Multistrada V2. The gear ratios are shortened to facilitate off-road riding, while the electronics involve six specific riding mode settings, including Enduro and the brand-new Rally. All adjustments can be viewed on the vertical 5” TFT display.
The bike also features a very robust new frame, convincing ground clearance (250 mm), and ultra-adjustable front and rear Kayaba suspension. The wheels measure 21” and 18”, as the 2022 trend appears to dictate. And then there are full LED lights and a rear light in case of unexpected braking. The 21-litre tank can be supplemented with an additional 8-litre tank at the rear. The bike has a dry weight of a little over 200 kg.
HONDA NT 1100
Already on sale, this new touring model boasts a high front end and is powered by a 1084 cc parallel twin, the development of which was based on that of the Africa Twin. Honda presents it as “as a sporting, agile bike but one that’s also enjoyable to ride all day” and, in effect, the manufacturer has spent a lot of time studying both the aerodynamic protection and the riding comfort it affords. Equally impressive is its SHOWA suspension system with 150 mm front and rear travel, which can be adjusted with a knob.
The electronics involve the Ride by Wire throttle control as well as three fixed riding modes and two customisable modes. And of course there’s cruise control. LED lights (the front resembles that of the X-ADV) and heated hand grips as standard. The dashboard also includes the TFT display (6.5”). The 20-litre tank ensures a range of approx. 400 km.
HONDA Africa Twin
Rather than a new version, this model is more about minor updates. The CRF1000L gains an aluminium rack and new colour schemes. In addition to new colours, the Adventure Sports version also features a lower, height-adjustable windscreen. Its technical equipment is almost identical to that of previous versions. Both are already on sale.
HUSQVARNA Norden 901
Highly anticipated, this bike adds to the line up of road-going maxi enduro models with its original line, almost a little vintage (the round headlamp…). The manufacturer presents it as “an adventure touring motorcycle” and, in effect, the chassis lends it to the dirt, with adjustable WP Apex suspension with 220 mm front travel and 215 mm rear travel, a height-adjustable seat and 21” and 18” wheels. Added to this are electronics system to support the rider – throttle management control, Easy Shift gearing, cruise control and three riding modes.
The Bosch ABS is sensitive to lean angle and cane be deactivated at the rear wheel. The Husqvarna-branded J. Juan braking system is sophisticated, bringing MotoGP technology to the motorcycle. The Norden 901 is powered by a 889 cc, 105 HP parallel twin. The tank has a capacity of 19 litres.
KAWASAKI H2 SX SE
The brand’s flagship touring model. In its updated version, the SE remains very similar aesthetically speaking (front) but present new chassis solutions and an infinite electronics package (we simply don’t have to room to explain it here, but you can find more details online). Comfort is focused on the new saddles with large seat area and the KECS electronic suspension, a system that works in harmony with Showa Skyhook technology to best modulate the damping of stress from the ground.
The electronics control riding thanks to three riding modes, the engine brake, cornering traction and more. The inline four is almost untouched, as is its supercharger, capable of delivering 200 HP. Its exhaust system has been redesigned.
This bike is the first KAWASAKI to offer the FI ECU and six-axis IMU.
Also as standard are the headed hand grips, the ARAS (a radar with front and rear sensors that work with the adaptive cruise control provided) and the 6.5” TFT display.
KAWASAKI Versys 1000 S/SE
Both the S and SE models are available in new colours. No changes have been made to the engine or chassis. We remind you that the two models differ in terms of their suspension (semi-active on the SE).
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT
Another sport tourer… Powered by a 1301 cc V twin (LC8) that can deliver an impressive 175 HP.
The update proposed by KTM for 2022 includes WP APEX semi-active suspension compete with anti-dive, adjustable according to four settings; brakes with cornering ABS, lighter wheels (both 17”), a 23-litre tank, a new navigation system and instrumentation with 7” TFT that can also be managed via a conveniently placed joystick.
This KTM is the first to be equipped with the new TBT+ navigation system, which allows the rider to plan routes in a very detailed way.
MOTO GUZZI V100 Mandello
This model secures a place on our list thanks to its desire to be known as a “sport touring” roadster. A status that is highlighted by its “active” aerodynamic deflectors on the tank (17.5 litres of fuel), which automatically adjust based on the vehicle’s speed and the riding mode set (4), its height-adjustable top fairing, cruise control and heated hand grips. The engine is a very compact 1042 cc transverse V twin (referred to as Compact Block). The Öhlins suspension is semi-active and competes with a very comprehensive electronics package that includes: cornering ABS, quick shift, Ride by Wire accelerators, a 6-axis inertial platform, and more besides…
The 5” TFT display and full LED light set also come as standard.
MV AGUSTA Lucky Explorer project
An important debut, with the profile of Cagiva Elefant models that starred in 1980s rally world. We’re talking about the MV Agusta Lucky Explorer project and the two versions it comprises, the 9.5 and the 5.5.
As we’re looking at maxi bikes here, our attention is focused on the 9.5.
For this Explorer, the manufacturer has created a new bike, inspired by its 800 inline three-cylinder, which has been boosted, but not in physical size, to 930 cc.
Let’s start with the glaringly apparent attention for detail, inspired by the Cagiva Elefant; from the radiator fairing to the hand guards, disc cover and engine guard plate… Not to mention the paint job. All of which contributes to giving the motorcycle strong off-road connotations, In addition, contemporary electronics technology such as the instrumentation with 7” TFT display via which to configure the ride, which can be enhanced with four riding modes.
The Sachs suspension is semi active. And it’s not hard to guess the wheel sizes – 21” and 18”.
According to the trade press, production will underway approx. one year from now.
MV Agusta also hopes to attract the attention of rally enthusiasts with this project.
SUZUKI Hayabusa GSX-S 1000 GT
An “angular” sport touring model of more than 150 HP, complete with fairings designed in the wind tunnel that increase its stability at high speeds. The 999 cc four-cylinder engine is used by Suzuki on its super naked, but power delivery is smoother here (dedicated mapping), more ‘compatible’ with its touring character. The electronics are extensive, with Up/Down gearbox, three riding modes and Ride by Wire accelerator all as standard. Then there is cruise control and the TFT display, 6.5” in this case, which enhances the new dashboard. The chassis is not drastically different, but the handlebar, wider than its predecessor, makes for a more upright riding position. The tank has a capacity of 19 litres. The bike is already available for purchase.
TRIUMPH Tiger 1200
The 2022 version of this “adventurous” British maxi comprises two families, one that includes the GT, GT PRO and GT EXPLORER models, more road touring-oriented, and the more technical RALLY, which is also set up for off-road with the PRO and EXPLORER versions. The first group mount 19” and 18” wheels, the second group 21” and 18”.
The tank capacity also changes, going from 20 to 30 litres for the top-of-line models.
The big five all adopt the same 1160 cc three-cylinder engine that is essentially all-new (from its crankshaft to its final drive), despite it deriving from that of the Speed Triple RS. The performance in terms of power and torque is also more impressive than that of previous TIGER versions, while the bike’s weight has been lowered by a good 25 kg.
The standard electronics relating to rider assistance do not disappoint, even more comprehensive on the RALLY versions, which feature no less than six riding modes, including Offroad Pro.
The two top-of-line Tiger 2022 EXPLORER models also feature a dual-purpose radar, which controls the blind sport and sends a warning when the rider is about the change lane in cases where said lane is already occupied by another vehicle.
Also worthy of note are the adaptive full LED lights and braking system complete with cornering function.
The 2022 colour schemes and three variants for the remaining four versions.
