Two motorcyclists riding on a dusty offroad trail in Namibia, exploring with Gravel Travel on an unforgettable journey.

Motorcycles & Technology

Proven technology for unforgettable adventures

Our Enduro fleet

For the motorcycles, we relied on the proven technology of the Yamaha single-cylinder enduro bikes right from the start. The Yamaha XT 600 was already perfect for us, although a few modifications were necessary for use in Namibia, such as stronger suspension elements, reinforced spokes and rims as well as a special air filter, but in the entire time we have been using it, there has not been a single technical failure that could not be rectified on the spot!

As we are constantly keeping our fleet young, we now have the latest modern Yamaha Enduros at our disposal. On all our “normal” tours (Classic, Windhoek Cape Town, Special etc.), which mainly take place on gravel roads, we use our slightly modified XT 660 models. The water-cooled single cylinders with their good-natured yet powerful engine characteristics are extremely reliable and very pleasant to ride. The fuel injection systems make them very economical, with the XT 660 consuming around 4 liters per 100 km.

Of course, we have tested other vehicles, such as the 700 Ténéré and other great adventure bikes. But their heavy weight alone means that they are no alternative to our XT 660, which has been specially modified for Namibia.

However, we still use the small WR 250 R, which is derived from the Yamaha competition enduro. This motorcycle is perfect for our more demanding off-road tours with a higher proportion of terrain, such as in Namibia's Kaokoland and Damaraland. Apart from a large tank, we didn't need to change anything on it. The deeper the sand, the more comfortable she feels ...

 

Yamaha XT660 R

Yamaha XT660 R

We have professionally adapted and converted the standard Yamaha XT660 R according to our specifications and experience.

To meet all requirements, we have made a number of modifications, such as a large additional air filter, stiffer fork springs, reinforced footrests, Excel rims and reinforced spokes, engine protection, a Touratech luggage rack, Kellermann indicators and a slightly shorter gear ratio as well as other little things such as fork protectors or a tank repainted silver to reduce the fuel temperature. Another new feature is the raised exhaust system from SR Racing, which reduces the weight by a whole 12 kg and thus significantly improves handling.

The XT 660R is simply an all-rounder that can be used anywhere, it doesn't have the most powerful engine, but with 50 hp it has enough power for our gravel tracks. It doesn't have moto cross suspension, but it has enough reserves for sometimes very eroded passages on the gravel tracks. The seating position is very comfortable (the seat height of this motorbike can be reduced to a minimum of 83 cm height on request). Please tick the option when you register for a tour.

Its good-natured and always predictable riding behaviour makes the XT the first choice - for average - but also less experienced - touring riders.

Yamaha WR 250R

Yamaha WR 250R

The Yamaha WR 250 R was added to our fleet, as it proved to be an excellent choice. Small, light, quiet - perfect for the off-road tracks of the sandy and rocky routes on the Damaraland and Kaokoveld tour.

Worth knowing about our fleet

Lowered motorbikes: We also offer lowered enduro bikes. The seat height is then approx. 83 cm. If you are interested in such a motorbike, please choose for on registration of tour..

Passenger/co-driver: It is possible to take a passenger with you on all tours. However, you should bear in mind that many gravel tracks are much better ridden standing up, so it can be very strenuous for both rider and passenger. Our support vehicle has limited additional seats available. Your companion could therefore travel part or all of the way in the car. Please indicate this when registering.

Luggage: You will need no more than a day rucksack with/without hydration bladder and/or a rear bag with straps for your personal and most important items. The motorbikes are equipped with a small luggage rack for rear bags (not suitable for suitcases or side bags). The rest of your luggage is carried in the dust-proof trailer of the service vehicle. Only particularly dustproof/waterproof bags are suitable for carrying sensitive photographic equipment. You can find some options at Enduristan, for example Duffle-Pack / Back pack / Tank bag