Five best motorcycles for a trip through Africa

5. Kawasaki 650 KLR

Was number three on my list until Norman Emslie had his KLR snap into two under him while travelling through Tanzania.

Pros:
Reliable
Spares available
Good fuel consumption
Good gearing

Cons:
Underpowered
Seat uncomfortable
Average suspension
No middle stand
Not tough enough for big South African farmers

4. Yamaha Tenere XTZ660

Pros:
Solid and dependable motor
Very good fuel economy
Great suspension for the dirt
Real off road capability

Cons:
Lacks top end power and torque
Single cylinder vibration at speed

3. Honda XRV 750 Africa Twin

Pros:
Very reliable
Great fuel economy
Long range
Durable
Good gearing
Easy to service

Cons:
Low on power
No longer manufactured
Fuel pump prone to failure
Soft front suspension
Sticky choke

2. BMW 800 GS

Pros:
No vibration
Great suspension
Well geared
Plenty of power
Well balanced
Good mix of on-road and off-road

Cons:
Seats is uncomfortable
No wind protection from fairing
Twitchy throttle

1. KTM 950 ADV

Pros:
Good fuel consumption at 100 - 120km/h
Brilliant gearing
Power aplenty
Fantastic off-road capability
Perfect balance
Excellent suspension
Great handling from low petrol tank design
At home on tar and dirt

Cons:
Very thirsty above 120 km/h
Limited range