Author Archives: MotoADVR

Two Strokes Versus Four: Confessions of a Woods Racer

After riding and racing a Husky two-stroke enduro for two years, I sold a bike despite my passion for two-stroke engines. Why would I do such a thing? But first, a woods rider’s perspective on an age old debate. Continue reading

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Posted in Opinion | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

The Motorcycle Cheapskate: Defining Value

When folks ask me how I got into motorcycles, the answer is some variation of:“After watching a movie with a sweet motorcycle, I used $4 a gallon gas to justify buying a scooter.” For whatever it’s worth, the movie was … Continue reading

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Posted in Opinion | Tagged , , , , | 18 Comments

The 13 Motorcyclists You’ll Meet

Over the years that I’ve been riding motorcycles, the topic of segmentation and polarity comes up frequently in conversation. Cruiser people versus sportbike people versus commuters; greybeards and teenage fools… The longer I ride, despite the discussion about tribalism, I … Continue reading

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Harley Sportster Project: Adventure Tourer Planning

For folks not following on Instagram, I brought home a new (to me) motorcycle a couple of weeks ago. “Charlotte” is a 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Custom with about 9,000 miles on the clock. For anyone that followed the Dirtster … Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Triumph Scrambler Project: Stage 4 Upgrades

Somewhere in late 2020, I started writing this update on the status of Rosie the Scrambler and it “got lost in the move”. At any rate, a buddy of mine asked me the other day if I planned on posting something that covered all the stuff I’ve done to the Scrambler since I’ve had it. As I’m publishing a library of “scrammy knowledge” here on the blog, it seemed fitting to post that update here first. Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Kuhl Silencr Kargo Pants: Post-ride Hiking Attire

I know what you’re thinking, “Drew, isn’t this a motorcycle blog?”
Why yes, yes it is, but hang with me here. While I’ve proven to myself that I’m capable of riding year-round, there’s no doubt I much prefer hiking in the winter months to suffering through boring rides on the freeway in frigid temperatures. Moreover, if you’re the “adventure moto-camping” sort, these hiking pants are right up your alley. Continue reading

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Posted in Gear - Maintenance - Safety, Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

What’s a Dual-Sport Motorcycle? Part 2

In the previous edition of “What is a Dual-Sport Motorcycle?”, I outlined some ground rules and essentially drew a circle around the bikes I feel fit squarely in the segment. While talking to motorcyclists that are considering the purchase of a new dual-sport, I find that many are still unfamiliar with the breadth of models available, moreover the divide in both cost and capability between the bikes at both extremes of the range. 

With that in mind, I want to describe the various sub-categories of dual-sport motorcycles in more detail. I also want to highlight some of the models available from rarer brands. If you have the patience, I’m gonna take a deep dive into the specifications of various models. Lastly, I think there’s a demand for a motorcycle squarely in the middle of the segment that I don’t think currently exists from any of the manufacturers. Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Racing Dirtbikes: Reflections on Cross-Country Racing

failure is an experience we want to avoid. Wearing mismatched socks, getting toilet paper stuck to your shoes, and dumping your motorcycle in the parking lot tend to induce feelings of embarrassment. Unfortunately, that aspect of human nature can also prevent us from taking risks; which in turn tends to prevent us from experiencing life’s greatest “highs”. Continue reading

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Posted in Opinion | Tagged , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

What’s a Dual-Sport Motorcycle?

You’ve probably heard the expressions “enduro” or “Street & Trail” in the past, but today I suspect most folks use the word “dual-sport” to describe a motorcycle that’s intended for use both on and off the pavement. On and off-road … Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Shinko Off-road Tires: Longterm Review

At the beginning of this year, I contacted Shinko Tires about their off-road offerings. Since I had plans to compete all season in Kentucky Cross-Country Racing (KXCR), Shinko sent me 3 tires to test. Full disclosure, Shinko didn’t ask me … Continue reading

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Posted in Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments