Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1538840
September2025 31 Suzuki DR4: I believe the DR4 is the latest rendi on of the popular DRZ400. This bike could be the defi- ni on of a "Dual Sport". It feels like a woods bike, and the ergos fit my 6' frame well. The suspension was so , progressive, and supple. Although our guided tour only consisted of dirt roads, I found it easy to ride with sufficient power. In the end, I feel the DR4 is an excellent bike for someone either re-visi ng the sport of off-road riding or someone looking to enjoy the dual-sport scene. Yamaha Tenere 700: It seems the T7 has become the go-to ADV bike for those who prefer the harder core terrain that the ADV scene has to offer. In recent years, I've seen friends downsize from much larger ADV mounts to the more nim- ble Yamaha Tenere 700. With some of the ADV behemoths pushing 600 pounds, downsizing to a 450-pound bike is a massive reduc on in weight. Now, we hardcore woods riders might snick- er over how a 450-pound bike can work in the woods, but many seem to get it done and in fine style too. My ride had the op onal taller seat, and although the bike did feel a bit top-heavy while si ng sta onary, once underway, the weight was a non-issue. It felt planted, with great ergos. Brakes are powerful, and the shi ing was typical Yamaha, bu er smooth. What also impressed me was how the 700cc twin made such strong power. It's got motor and it sounds nice too, barking with authority. For those who enjoy personalizing their mounts, the a ermarket has embraced the T7 with a host of cool accessories. This is the second year I've tested the Yamaha Tenere 700, and I'm thoroughly impressed with the bike. Triumph Tiger 900: This bike surprised me. As above, large ADV bikes aren't my thing, and I'm probably not the guy who's anywhere near qualified to share his opinion. The bo om line is, I just don't have much experience with this segment of motorcycling. Given that, I instantly gelled with the Triumph Tiger 900. The ergos were perfect as if it were built for me. The bar height was fine with my wrists well below my elbows, making for a comfortable ride. It's a bike I could easily spend a lot of me on and possibly take my wife with me for a dirt road excursion. Our guided test ride con- sisted of 45 minutes of mostly Vermont loose gravel dirt roads. The Tiger 900 is sure-footed in all condi ons and reacts posi vely with input from the rider. As for power, being a 900cc triple, it's got great motor and is certainly not lacking at all. Being somewhat of a "Euro Snob", I like everything about the Tiger 900 and could see myself adding one to the stable. I think my wife would enjoy it too, with a large, comfortable seat that makes two-up riding enjoyable. Suzuki DR4 Suzuki DR4 Yamaha Tenere 700 Yamaha Tenere 700