What Motorcycle Do I Start With?

Deciding on my first adventure motorcycle was no easy task. I was working with a modest budget, and I had a big unknown to consider: would I even enjoy off-road riding? I had never done it before, and I wasn’t sure if it was something I’d take to—or bounce off, quite literally.

I’ve always had a soft spot for BMW motorcycles. The GS range in particular had captured my imagination. Maybe it was the marketing, or maybe it was all those epic shots of riders tackling wild trails and scenic backroads. Either way, it looked like the kind of bike that could go anywhere—and that’s exactly what I wanted.

My First Adventure Bike: The BMW F700GS

After plenty of research (and a few second-hand listings), I landed on a 2016 BMW F700GS as my first adventure bike. It struck a good balance—something that felt manageable in terms of engine size, weight, and seat height. At the time, that felt like a smart choice. I wasn’t ready to wrestle a fully loaded 1200cc beast through the bush.

The F700GS (purchased in 2020) turned out to be a great starting point. It offered enough power for most of the riding I wanted to do, and it was forgiving—perfect for someone still learning the ropes. The throttle response was smooth, and the ride comfort was surprisingly good even when the terrain got a bit rough.

Learning to Ride Off-Road: A Whole New World

It didn’t take long to realise that riding off-road was a completely different skillset. Losing traction on the rear wheel—something I would have panicked about on the road—was actually part of the game. Learning to control that slide, to trust the bike beneath me, and to adapt to loose gravel or sand was both thrilling and intimidating.

But here’s the thing: once I stopped fighting it and started understanding it, it became

addictive. There’s a certain freedom in leaving the bitumen behind and heading down a trail with no idea where it might lead.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, the F700GS was the perfect bike for my early adventure riding journey. It was approachable but capable, comfortable but exciting, and it gave me just enough confidence to keep pushing forward.

\Would I recommend it as a first adventure bike? Absolutely—especially if you're easing into off-road riding and want something reliable and not too overwhelming.

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