Why Adventure Riders Change Bikes So Often (And Why That’s Totally Normal)
Why Adventure Riders Change Bikes So Often (And Why That’s Totally Normal)
Let’s face it: adventure riders change bikes more often than most people change their socks on a desert crossing.
If you’ve spent time in the ADV world, you’ve heard it:
“Just sold the 690. Loved it, but I’m going a different direction.”
Translation?
They’re already watching YouTube reviews at 2 a.m., looking at the next “perfect” adventure motorcycle.
But why do we change bikes so often? Here’s the honest (and slightly ridiculous) truth.
1. The Quest for the Perfect Adventure Bike
Every rider is chasing the one — the mythical bike that’s light, powerful, reliable, comfortable, fuel-efficient, and can survive the Simpson Desert and still look good outside a café.
It doesn’t exist.
But that won’t stop us from going through a KTM, Yamaha, Ducati, and a couple of Huskies along the way.
2. “It’s Just Temporary” Syndrome
We tell ourselves it’s a short-term bike.
Just a placeholder.
Won’t do much to it… maybe a bash plate and soft panniers… okay, a high front guard too.
Twelve months later it’s your soulmate — until it’s not.
3. When in Doubt, Blame the Bike
Dropped it in a car park?
Stalled it on a hill climb?
Back hurts after 600km on the tar?
Clearly, it’s the bike’s fault.
Too heavy. Too twitchy. Too… orange?
Time to sell it and upgrade to something better.
4. Maintenance vs. New Bike Smell
Rebuilding forks, replacing bearings, fixing electrical gremlins…
Or: trading it in and riding home on a fresh machine with a warranty and that glorious new bike smell.
Tough choice.
(Not really.)
5. Instagram Made Me Do It
Nothing ruins your current setup faster than seeing your mate post a photo of their new Tenere 700 fully kitted out with racks, soft luggage, and a smug caption like:
“First ride — loving it so far!”
You could have the best adventure motorcycle gear on earth, but somehow it still feels like you’re missing out.
6. The Manufacturers Know Our Weak Spots
KTM releases a new Rally version.
Ducati drops a DesertX with 48mm forks.
Honda throws in an Africa Twin update that’s exactly what you wish yours had.
Suddenly your bike looks old.
And your bank account gets nervous.
7. The Crisis Bike
Some folks buy a convertible during a mid-life crisis.
We buy a brand new ADV bike and disappear into the bush for a long weekend.
Hey — it’s cheaper than therapy.
(Just don’t look at the invoice for your new suspension.)
So, Why Do Adventure Riders Change Bikes So Often?
Because we’re dreamers.
We’re always tweaking, upgrading, chasing new terrain — and sometimes, new machines.
And honestly? That’s part of the fun.
Gear That Doesn’t Need Changing Every Six Months
At Nomad Moto, our adventure motorcycle luggage is built to fit any bike, any time. Whether you're riding a Tenere, a DR650, or whatever you’ve just picked up off Facebook Marketplace, our universal-fit soft panniers and dry bags move with you — not against you.
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Designed by Aussie adventure riders
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Built to survive real outback rides
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Compatible with every bike you’ll own this year (and next)
Check out the Strzelecki 20L Soft Panniers — the best soft panniers for adventure bikes in Australia.
Ready to Ride, No Matter What You Ride
Whatever bike you’re on right now, we’re here to gear you up for the ride ahead — even if that ride ends up at a dealership next month.
Ride safe. Ride far. Ride often.