Why choose a supermoto model, or motorcycles for asphalt and off-road

The supermoto (otherwise known as the supermotard) has been in continuous development ever since, although if you want to start playing with such a machine, all you need is an enduro and a set of flat-surface wheels.

It’s worth starting with dual sports. We are talking about machines that have both the features of touring and off-road bikes. After minor modifications to the suspension (including tires), seemingly bizarre-looking dual sports cars with smooth slippers for driving on asphalt were created.

Supermoto cars - how are they different?

Supermoto competitions are held on asphalt tracks combined with off-road areas. This requires machines to adapt to changing conditions. Therefore, they cannot be typical motocross or enduro designs because they have too soft suspension. On the other hand, the full suspension reinforcement and driver's leaning position are not suitable for driving over bumps and gravel.

Supermoto and their design

"Supermociaki", as supermotard motorcycles are called, is easiest to spot first by the tires. Wider slippers with a width of 150/160 mm and a rim size of 16,5/17 inches require wider front forks. The rear swingarm is also larger due to the wheel. Higher cornering and straight-line speeds require good braking. To simplify them, we have larger ones in supermoto brake discs, more efficient pumps and clamps. The changes affected both the engine and gearbox itself.

How to start with a supermoto motorcycle?

Basically, there are two ways - you can buy a ready-made Yamaha or Husqvarna supermoto or you can be interested in modifying an enduro motorcycle yourself. The first option is definitely more convenient, because you get a car prepared for sports. You don't need to make the changes we wrote about. However, you will have to pay more and you will not be able to get approved. WITHsupermotards were created for a typical racing purpose and do not have, for example, mirrors.

Supermoto fashion

That's why in the early stages of your adventure, before you hit the track for good and join the club, you can put SM wheels on your enduro. In some cases, this may be the only modification you will need in the beginning. What else do you get with this conversion? Remember that dualsport or enduro have softer engine specs that are otherwise not as tight as, for example, motocross units. This means fewer services and lower costs.

Suzuki, Ducati, KTM, or maybe Husqvarna, or which supermoto should you choose?

This is not an easy task, and much depends on your experience. If you've never ridden a motorcycle before and only recently got your license, it's best not to try powerful machines. Powerslides and turns on fast roads only seem easy at first glance. However, it is better to bet on 125 or 250 than on 450 or more. Supermoto requires impeccable driving technique, practiced on various models. therefore it is very easy to lose balance, fall or other troubles.

What is the most important thing when starting on a pit bike?

The engine of a car is important, and power has a lot to do with performance and, of course, enjoyment. However, this is not a key issue for a beginner. You have to study the car and learn how to drive it in different conditions, and that takes a lot of laps. So which cars should you consider to start with? Recommended motorcycle brands in the first place:

• Ducati;
• Suzuki;
• Yamaha;
• Husqvarna.

 Here are specific suggestions that you can find on many forums on the internet.

Suzuki Supermoto DR 125

The parameters of the machine are 131 kg curb weight plus 11 hp. Not a very impressive result, but enough to start. Single-cylinder air-cooled unit with fuel consumption of approx. 3 l/100 km. It is very small and you can cover this distance without stopping. The Suzuki DR 125 SM is also passenger-friendly, which isn't very common in this class of two-wheelers. Despite the considerable weight, the suspension of this car is intelligently tuned and does not float in high-speed corners. It's stable and predictable, so it's great for learning.

Husqvarna Supermoto 125 2T

This is a heavily enduro based model with very sharp and aggressive lines. It is much lighter than the above competitor and slightly stronger, which should provide better performance. And indeed - the maximum speed in a straight line is more than 20 km / h higher. According to experienced motorcyclists, this is a great car to start. It provides excellent driving performance and easy cornering. The small engine does not bother here, because thanks to the power of 15 hp. it allows you to play freely. Just remember about long gear ratios and a gentle front end on bumps.

Yamaha WR 250X - versatile supermoto?

Although it is not the cheapest car in its category (price over PLN 15), it has an excellent engine and very good handling. It's as agile as a scooter, but much more powerful and more fun to ride. Even in traffic jams, you cope with it sensationally, and the city is its natural environment - 31 hp. and 136 kg curb weight speak for themselves. However, this does not mean that this car has nothing to look for off-road. The suspension is very good, although fans of hard and aggressive braking can be annoyed by deep throb.

Could a supermoto be a good choice to start with?

Yes and no. Why? The lack of any experience is not your ally, which does not mean that you should give up on a pit bike. However, you must remember that moving it will require great skill from you, and the more powerful the machine, the more difficult it is to control. So if you decide to go supermoto, don't overdo it with power.

As you can see, supermoto can be a very interesting proposition. If you are still wondering what the models we have presented look like, please enter "supermoto wallpaper" and the name of the model. Perhaps the wallpaper on the screen will help you make a faster decision about buying one of these interesting motorcycles.