Topic summary

Dual-sport motorcycle

Dual-sport motorcycle

A dual-sport motorcycle is a category of motorcycle that is designed for varying degrees of off-roading while still being street-legal as defined by US DOT regulations. Dual-sports are equipped with lights, speedometers, mirrors, horns, license plates, turn signals, and mufflers with spark arrestors and may have noise output standards all to comply with various state regulations. They vary considerably in engine size and weight. They are often versions of off-road bikes that have been made legal for street riding.

Terms such as Dual-purpose, Trailbike, on/off-road, Scrambler, Adventure/ADV and Adventure touring are marketing descriptions, chosen by the manufacturer. Enduro bikes are more likely to be competition oriented in the US, while an enduro bike in Europe is considered street legal. These are not strict definitions and not necessarily based upon the size, weight, and intended usage. Typically the dual-sport category focuses on lower weight to make them more comfortable and capable off-road, while Adventure bikes are heavier to make them more comfortable and capable on the pavement.