The new Touratech Aventuro Gravel Carbon combines state-of-the-art materials with a design concept tailored specifically to the demands of adventure riders. This ambitious new development focuses on achieving the best possible performance in terms of weight, strength, comfort and functionality.

Anyone who travels on an adventure bike knows the demands involved: long days in the saddle on narrow roads, gravel tracks and challenging trails. Changing weather conditions, ranging from dry and hot to wet and cold. Dust, mud, blazing sun and persistent rain. This calls for a helmet that not only meets the highest safety standards, but is also lightweight, comfortable, functional and – exceptionally versatile. Purpose-built for this complex scenario, the new Touratech Aventuro Gravel Carbon is the first choice for ambitious motorcycle adventurers.

PRO Carbon Technology: Lightweight x high strength

The shell of the Touratech Aventuro Gravel Carbon is made from X-PRO Carbon, a carbon fibre composite with a fibre content of over 60 per cent. The result is a construction that is both exceptionally light and highly robust. Weighing just under 1,500 grams in size L (including the peak and visor), the Aventuro Gravel Carbon is one of the lightest helmets in its class.

Three different shell sizes ensure that the thickness of the EPS calotte is always optimally matched to the respective helmet size. The weight optimisation is particularly noticeable during long stages of a journey, as it ensures a high level of comfort.

When it comes to safety, the Aventuro Gravel Carbon not only complies with the current European standard ECE 22.06, and has DOT approval.

A pleasant sense of calm, even at high speeds

One of the advanced technical features of the Touratech Aventuro Gravel Carbon is the Anti-Vibration EPS System. A flexible rubber strip is integrated between the EPS layers of the shell, allowing for minimal movement within the helmet structure. This reduces vibrations caused by air turbulence. This ensures a quieter wearing experience, particularly at higher speeds, and reduces strain on the neck muscles during long stages.

The specialist for all your needs

The Aventuro Gravel Carbon is very versatile. The helmet can be used in various configurations: as an adventure helmet with a visor and shield, as dirt helmet with no shield (ready for goggles), peak on, and as a street helmet with a shield but without the peak. The extra-large face cutout not only offers a wide field of vision but also allows the use of virtually all motocross goggles. Switching between configurations takes no time at all and requires no tools.

From the coast to coast – always the perfect airflow

Adventure riders are exposed to a wide variety of weather conditions – from cool mornings in the mountains to the midday heat on dusty tracks. The Aventuro Gravel Carbon’s ventilation system is designed to be equally flexible.

The chin section allows the air flow to be precisely controlled. In cold conditions, fresh air can be directed exclusively to the visor to reduce misting without causing the rider to feel any colder. As temperatures rise, the air is channelled directly to the face. The system is complemented by side ventilation openings in the cheek area, as well as large exhaust vents at the back of the head and in the nape of the neck.

The result is a ventilation system that not only works effectively in very hot weather, but can also be adapted to cool and changeable conditions.

Comfort and utility for long travels

The interior design is also consistently tailored to the needs of discerning adventure riders. The 3D mesh material used promotes air circulation right down to the scalp, whilst the skin-friendly X-mart Dry fabric lining ensures a high level of comfort during long, sweat-inducing stages. All padding is removable and washable.

For riding in cold weather, a nose and wind guard can be fitted, which largely covers the helmet opening right down to the neck. The cheek pads are also designed to accommodate a hydration system – a feature that offers valuable benefits, particularly on strenuous off-road sections or long-distance rides.

An adjustable peak extension improves protection against glare when the sun is low in the sky.

Secure fastening and quick removal of the helmet in case of an emergency

For the fastening, Touratech uses the X-Lock system made from Peraluman, a particularly lightweight and high-strength aluminium alloy. The system is based on the double-D-ring principle, which is well established in motorcycle racing, and is complemented by a magnetic button that provides additional fixing for the strap.

The Aventuro Gravel Carbon is equipped with an Emergency Quick Release System for use in emergency situations. The cheek pads can be removed using special pull tabs, enabling first aiders to remove the helmet gently.

Ready for modern multimedia gadgets

Standard features include an integrated mount for action cameras and an additional camera mount that can be fitted to the chin guard. This mount can be locked into four positions and rotated through 360 degrees. The helmet also features pre-fitted interfaces for common intercom systems.

Designed for adventures big and small

The Aventuro Gravel Carbon is designed for riders who use their motorbike not just for commuting to work, but for adventures both big and small. Whether it’s a long-distance trip, a BDR, or weekend getaway: the new premium adventure helmet combines low weight, high levels of protection, well-thought-out functionality and outstanding long-distance comfort in an all-round design that is consistently tailored to the needs of modern adventure motorcyclists.

Aventuro Gravel Carbon | The highlights

• High-strength helmet shell made from X-PRO carbon
• Lightweight: just 1500 grams (size L, with peak and visor)
• Certification: ECE 22.06 and DOT
• Three configurations: adventure helmet, full-face helmet, motocross helmet
• Tool-free conversion
• Three shell sizes
• Helmet sizes: S to 3XL
• Safe and comfortable: X-Lock fastening system
• Anti-Vibration EPS system reduces vibrations
• Effective and precisely adjustable ventilation system
• Interior lining with 3D mesh material for optimum ventilation
• Skin-friendly X-mart Dry fabric lining
• Emergency Quick Release for gentle helmet removal
• Pinlock visor
• Combines perfectly with off-road goggles
• Extensive range of accessories as standard
• Intercom-ready

The all new Aventuro Gravel Carbon, as the top-of-the-range model for discerning adventure riders, is a perfect addition to the Touratech helmet range.

The Touratech Aventuro Gravel Carbon is coming this summer in two designs, each in six sizes from S to 3XL.

Check out our helmet choices HERE!

The foundation of any adventure-ready motorcycle starts with protection, and the Touratech Engine Crash Bars for the BMW R 12 G/S are built for exactly that. Constructed from premium stainless steel, they shield the exposed boxer cylinders from costly damage while maintaining excellent ground clearance and a clean factory appearance. Available in Black or Red, riders can customize the look of their bike while adding serious protection. An optional Tech Plate increases rigidity and adds convenient mounting points for accessories, making these the best BMW R 12 G/S crash bars available.

When the pavement ends, the Touratech Expedition XL Skid Plate is ready to take the hits. Designed specifically for the BMW R 12 G/S, this heavy-duty BMW skid plate protects the engine and exhaust from rocks, stumps, and unexpected trail obstacles, giving riders the confidence to explore rougher terrain.

The front of your motorcycle deserves protection too. The Quick-Release Headlight Guard helps shield the expensive LED headlight from rocks and trail debris while allowing fast removal for cleaning. It’s a simple upgrade that can save hundreds of dollars in replacement costs.

Adventure riders always need room for gear, and the Touratech Rear Tail Rack creates a sturdy platform for duffel bags, camping equipment, dry bags, or everyday cargo. Whether you’re heading out for an overnight trip or a month-long expedition, it’s a practical addition that increases your bike’s versatility.

Rounding out the essentials is the Large Sidestand Foot, one of those upgrades you’ll appreciate every time you park. By increasing the sidestand’s footprint, it helps prevent your BMW R 12 G/S from sinking into soft dirt, sand, gravel, or hot pavement—making campsite stops and roadside breaks far less stressful.

The BMW R 12 G/S was built for riders who refuse to stay on the beaten path. Equip it with Touratech BMW R 12 G/S accessories, including crash bars, skid plates, headlight protection, luggage solutions, and sidestand upgrades, and you’ll be ready for every adventure—from local backroads to the most remote destinations. When it comes to BMW R 12 G/S protection, Touratech USA has everything you need to ride farther, explore harder, and protect your investment every mile of the journey.

Find parts, accessories, riding gear and more at touratech-usa.com

When you climb onto an adventure bike, your hands are your primary interface with the machine. They modulate the clutch on technical ascents, feel the front tire traction through brake levers, and absorb endless vibration over corrugated gravel. Yet, in hot weather or on low-speed trails, it is tempting to strip off riding gloves for better airflow or tactile comfort. Doing so compromises both safety and control in ways that can instantly end a trip.

Abrasion and Impact Protection

The most immediate argument for gloves is protection during an unexpected dismount. Human instinct is hardwired to extend hands first to break a fall. On asphalt, skin meets road at highway speeds; without heavy-duty abrasion protection, severe friction burns and deep lacerations occur in fractions of a second. Off-road, falling onto jagged rocks, coarse sand, or hardpack clay can crush delicate metacarpal bones and tear tissue. Adventure-specific gloves incorporate molded knuckle guards, palm sliders, and abrasion-resistant materials like goatskin or Kevlar to absorb kinetic impact and sliding forces.

Environmental Shielding and Fatigue Reduction

Beyond crash protection, gloves act as a vital barrier against environmental wear and tear. Long days on dual-sport routes expose your hands to constant elements:

• Debris & Vegetation: Roost kicked up by bikes ahead, flying gravel, and overgrown trail branches hit exposed knuckles like small projectiles.

• Weather Extremes: Cold winds numb fingers and slow reflex reaction times, while intense sun exposure leads to severe sunburns across the back of the hand.

• Vibration & Blisters: Sustained engine feedback and rigid handlebar grips cause severe palm fatigue and painful friction blisters over multi-day journeys.

Properly padded gloves isolate your nerves from high-frequency handlebar buzz, preserving grip strength and hand endurance.

Control and Tactile Precision

Sweaty or rain-soaked palms slip easily on rubber grips and metal levers, making fine throttle modulation and precise clutch control difficult in critical off-road sections. Modern motorcycle gloves feature textured palm overlays and silicone print patterns on control fingers, ensuring consistent grip regardless of mud, moisture, or sweat.

Ultimately, your hands contain dozens of small bones, tendons, and nerve pathways that require months of complex rehabilitation if damaged. Investing in quality adventure gloves ensures that your primary interface with your motorcycle stays protected, comfortable, and responsive through every mile of terrain.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Do Not Ride Without Gloves

Touratech and our partners are the best ADV Glove options. Click here to find yours.

Physical Hardware and Screen Engineering

The environment of an adventure bike cockpit requires screens that survive baking in desert sun, freezing mountain rain, and heavy glove strikes.

Garmin Zumo XT2

The Screen: A 6.0-inch HD multi-touch glass screen pushing 1,050 nits of brightness. It uses standard high-brightness TFT tech with a white backlight. It features dual-orientation software, allowing you to mount it vertically (excellent for seeing further down a route) or horizontally.

Rugged Armor: Built to MIL-STD-810 drop-test ratings. It carries an IPX7 water rating,    meaning it easily survives pouring rain storms, but shouldn’t be blasted at point-blank range with a high-pressure car wash wand.

Battery Life: Runs on a internal lithium-ion battery giving up to 6 hours of life—but if cranked to 100% brightness to fight the midday sun, it drops closer to 3.5 hours.

Garmin Zumo XT3

The Screen: Introduces a massive choice in form factors. You can choose the traditional 6.0-inch screen or a minimalist 4.7-inch version. Both resolutions are high-definition (1280 x 720 pixels), rendering incredibly crisp vector maps.

The Post-Mount Advantage: The 4.7-inch model includes special M8 post-mounting hardware. This allows the unit to bolt directly to your bike’s top handlebar clamps or rally towers via rigid thread bolts, minimizing screen shaking compared to long rubber-isolated arm mounts.

Battery Life: Efficiency has improved drastically. Despite the faster performance, the XT3 achieves up to 7 hours of total run time, and holds out for a full 5 hours even with the backlight pinned at 100% capacity.

Garmin Tread 2

The Screen: It is built around a robust, 6.15″ W x 3.5″ H x 1″ glove friendly screen.

Extreme Silt Armor: Carries a higher IP6X dust rating combined with IPX7 moisture defense. This makes it impervious to microscopic, abrasive trail dust or silt that can clog buttons and speaker meshes on standard electronics.

Magnetic Locking Mount: Uses a heavy-duty locking, magnet-assisted power dock. It snaps in place with extreme magnetic force, and then a physical lever locks it down so it cannot vibrate loose even on washboard dirt trails.

Battery Life: The Garmin Tread 2 provides up to 7 hours of battery life on the 6-inch model, dropping to a maximum of 5 hours if you lock the high-brightness screen at 100% capacity to battle direct sunlight. The larger 8-inch Overland configuration draws a bit more power, offering up to 6 hours at half brightness and down to 1 hour if pushed continuously at full brightness.

Satellites, Signal Accuracy, and Compute Brains

When you ride under heavy tree canopies, through slot canyons, or next to steep mountain cliffs, regular GPS chips lose signal or “drift” your position into nearby rivers or cliffs.

Garmin Zumo XT2

The Satellite Engine:Uses standard 10 Hz Multi-GNSS positioning tracking. It samples your location roughly 10 times a second using standard GPS and Galileo networks.

Storage capacity: Comes with 32 GB of internal space, which is enough for standard continental street maps and a few regional topo files, expandable up to 256 GB via microSD.

Garmin Zumo XT3

The Satellite Engine: Houses a revolutionary 25 Hz Multi-GNSS processor. This updates your absolute placement 25 times per second. When carving canyons at 60 mph, the map glides with absolute smoothness. Your vehicle icon never lags behind your physical position, and direction indicators never spin out when you stop.

Storage capacity: Bumped up to 64 GB internal storage, giving you double the room for massive geographical files out of the box.

Garmin Tread 2

The Satellite Engine: Utilizes a highly stable 10 Hz Multi-GNSS array. However, it features a special connection port for an External GPS Antenna. If you have a large rally fairing or luggage blocking your view of the sky, you can run a wire to a remote puck on your tail rack for a clear satellite signal.

Storage capacity: The Garmin Tread 2 comes equipped with 64 GB of internal storage out of the box, offering plenty of native room to hold its massive preloaded library of Forest Service trails and public land boundaries. If you want to download extensive high-resolution satellite imagery or thousands of custom GPX tracks, you can expand that capacity by adding a microSD card up to 256 GB.

Mapping Ecosystem & Trail Intelligence

Garmin Tread 2

Preloaded Land Boundaries: Natively comes with full U.S. Public Land Boundaries (BLM land, National Forest borders) and Private Land Parcel Maps for sections larger than 4 acres. For adventure riders who love primitive, dispersed wild camping, this lets you instantly check if you are legally allowed to set up camp on a patch of dirt.

USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM): Includes complete, preloaded Forest Service maps. This tells you exactly which dirt trails are open specifically to motorcycles, ATVs, or full-sized 4×4 vehicles, keeping you clear of illegal wilderness trails.

Trail Difficulty Ratings: Uses crowd-sourced OpenStreetMap data to apply color-coded difficulty metrics directly to dirt paths so you don’t accidentally try to ride a 600-pound adventure bike down an intense, boulder-filled single-track.

GPS Track Management & Behavior

Garmin Zumo XT2: The Collection Manager

The Zumo XT2 handles tracks using a system of “Collections”. When you import a multi-day BDR file via the phone app, you must organize the tracks, waypoints, and alternate routes into distinct folders to avoid overwhelming the map screen.

The Conversion Trap: The XT2 often tries to automatically convert an imported off-road track (a static, unchangeable string of breadcrumbs) into a route (which provides spoken turn-by-turn directions). On asphalt, this is great. On dirt, if the unit recalculates your route because it doesn’t recognize an unmapped trail, it can aggressively reroute you back toward major highways, throwing off your entire itinerary.

Best Practice: On the XT2, experienced riders disable automatic route recalculation and configure the raw track to show up as a high-visibility colored overlay (e.g., bright pink or neon green) to follow visually, rather than relying on spoken prompts.

Garmin Zumo XT3: The High-Speed Vector Handler

The Zumo XT3 uses a streamlined data architecture that separates “Tracks” (off-road breadcrumbs) from “Routes” (turn-by-turn guidance) much more cleanly than its predecessor.

Visual Route Planner: The XT3 features a refreshed on-device “Visual Route Planner”. If you are riding a custom GPX track and hit a sudden roadblock (like a wildfire closure or a washed-out bridge), you can tap the screen to drop a new point and shape a diversion route directly over the top of your custom file.

Render Performance: Thanks to its upgraded internal processor, the XT3 can display dozens of highly detailed, thousands-of-points-long GPX tracks simultaneously without causing the map to stutter or freeze when you zoom out to look at the day’s horizon.

Garmin Tread 2: The Direct Track Navigator

Because the Tread 2 is an off-road native, it doesn’t try to force your backcountry tracks into street-style navigation constraints.

Navigate-a-Track: Features a built-in function called Navigate-a-Track. When you load a raw, unstructured GPX file, the Tread 2 generates a clean directional compass indicator and off-road distance calculations along the path of that track, even if the line cuts through areas completely unrecognized by standard road maps.

Offline Independence: If you change your plans deep in the woods where you have zero cell service, the Tread 2 allows you to select any recorded track on the screen and invert it (Track Back) or slice it into segments directly on the device. It completely bypasses the need to sync with a smartphone app to clean up your data in the field.

Quick Comparison: Track Capabilities

Zumo XT2: Best for loading pre-planned routes. It requires a bit of menu digging to turn off street recalculations when riding raw off-road tracks.

Zumo XT3: Offers seamless, lag-free rendering of massive GPX files. It makes on-the-fly modifications to custom tracks smooth and intuitive using the on-screen visual planner.

Tread 2: Exceptional for pure track following. Its software treats raw dirt tracks as primary data, giving you distance metrics and direction pointers over track lines that cross open terrain with zero road data.

Peripheral Connections

Your navigation unit acts as the main control tower for your communication, safety, and power setups.

Garmin Zumo XT2

Group Ride Mobile: Uses your cell phone’s data connection via the Tread app to track your riding buddies on your screen in real time. If you lose cell service, however, the tracking drops out unless you buy a separate long-range physical Group Ride Radio antenna module.

Garmin Zumo XT3

Zumo R1 Radar Link: This is a major software upgrade. It connects over ANT+ wireless to Garmin’s R1 Rearview radar unit. When cars approach from behind on high-speed asphalt lanes, the side of your GPS screen lights up with color alerts tracking the vehicle’s closing speed.

Rider Telemetry: Works with built-in accelerometers to save a digital footprint of your cornering dynamics (lean angles) and braking forces, which can be shared via the phone app afterward.

Garmin Tread 2

Garmin PowerSwitch Integration: Natively links to Garmin’s digital 12V switch box. This lets you wire up auxiliary fog lights, heated grips, or horn upgrades to a control box, and turn them on or off digitally using macro buttons on your GPS touchscreen.

Group Ride Radio Native Build: Optimized to accept physical VHF/UHF radio antennas directly. This enables tracking and voice communication with other Tread users over miles of wilderness completely independent of cell service towers.

Pros and Cons:

Garmin Zumo XT2

PROS: + Excellent value for money; premium features without the latest generation price markup. + Superb, ultra-bright 6-inch screen that works flawlessly in direct sunlight. + Highly intuitive “Adventurous Routing” sliders for fun pavement and gravel detours. + Slim profile fits cleanly on standard adventure motorcycle handlebars.

CONS: – Off-road topographic mapping is basic; lacks preloaded public/private land borders. – Plastic snap-in mount can wear at the pin connections over years of heavy off-road dust. – Standard 10 Hz refresh rate can lag slightly during rapid, tight switchback turns.

Garmin Zumo XT3

PROS: + Blistering 25 Hz refresh rate completely eliminates map lag and icon drifting. + The 4.7-inch model is an exceptional option for minimalist dual-sport and rally setups. + Rear-facing radar support (via Zumo R1) significantly increases highway safety. + Captures advanced telemetry like lean angle and G-forces for post-ride analysis.

CONS: – Expensive entry point ($499 to $599 depending on size). – Advanced track features (lap timers, drag metrics) are locked behind a monthly fee. – Focus leans heavily toward street performance rather than hardcore wilderness mapping.

Garmin Tread 2

PROS: + Preloaded public land boundaries (BLM) and USFS MVUM maps make wild camping easy. + IP67 silt-proof rating handles deep mud, sandstorms, and pressure washing easily. + Magnetic-assist locking mount is incredibly secure on aggressive off-road terrain. + Native integration with 2-way radios and digital accessory switch boxes.

CONS: – Thick, and heavy chassis can be clunky. – Included mounting hardware is biased toward UTV/ATV roll cages rather than handlebars. – Lacks pavement-focused motorcycle software like “Adventurous Routing” or lean tracking.

Which One Should You Buy?

Buy the Garmin Zumo XT2 if…

You want the best balance of price and performance for 50/50 riding. If your adventures consist of riding highways out to the countryside, seeking out winding asphalt backroads, and tackling established gravel forestry roads, the Zumo XT2 is the logical choice. It gives you an excellent, high-brightness screen and great road-routing tools without making you pay for advanced racetrack telemetry or rugged overlanding hardware you won’t use.

Buy the Garmin Zumo XT3 if…

You ride a lighter dual-sport, want maximum tech, or commute on busy highways. The XT3 is the premium choice for two distinct types of riders. First, if you ride a lightweight dual-sport or aggressive adventure bike (like a KTM 500 or Yamaha T7) and want a small, indestructible navigation setup, the 4.7-inch XT3 bolted directly to your bar clamps is unmatched. Second, if you spend long hours on multi-lane interstates to reach your riding zones, the ability to pair a rear-facing blind-spot radar directly to your dashboard is a massive safety upgrade.

Buy the Garmin Tread 2 if…

You are a dedicated dirt purist and backcountry explorer. If your idea of adventure riding means loading up soft luggage to tackle multi-day Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDRs), hunting for legal dispersed camping on BLM land, navigating tight OHV trails, and dropping your bike in mud or silt, buy the Tread 2. Its preloaded Forest Service trail maps, land-ownership borders, and ultra-rugged IP67 chassis make it a dedicated piece of survival equipment rather than just a digital map.

If you still want to talk about GPS options for your motorcycle, feel free to call a Touratech Adventure Expert at 1.800.491.2926 or go to touratech-usa.com to chat with us.

This is the Dust Rider suit by Touratech—the ultimate remedy for “Adventure Suit Heatstroke.”

In recent years, the trend in adventure gear has been toward massive suits loaded with endless features. The problem? They’ve become heavy, stiff, and plain suffocating to wear—especially for riders tackling a BDR or sweating through peak summer temperatures.

Touratech looked at those bulky, oven-like suits and decided it was time for a change. They built the Dust Rider specifically for the off-road, summertime adventure rider. For anyone who loves exploring desert landscapes in the spring and mountain trails in the summer, this suit solves the age-old problem of constantly overheating.

Built to Breathe

As seen right here in the video, this suit is all about maximum airflow. It features massive mesh panels designed to dump body heat instantly, paired with strategic zipper vents that blast the rider with cooling air on the move. The combination makes for a best-in-class riding experience when the thermometer spikes or the terrain gets technical.

Instant “Dry-Mode”

When the skies inevitably open up, riders don’t have to scramble. The Dust Rider comes with lightweight, compact rain gear that seamlessly integrates with the suit.

• No Roadside Wrestling: Touratech added a full-length zipper to the rain pants, meaning riders can slip them on over bulky adventure boots without doing a clumsy, one-legged roadside dance.

• Inside or Out: The rain gear can be worn over the suit for quick protection, or snapped securely inside the jacket and pants.

Serious Armor, Zero Stiffness

Just because it’s breezy doesn’t mean it’s flimsy. Safety is a massive priority here, which is why the suit is armed with CE Level 2 protection in the back, shoulders, elbows, and knees, along with Level 1 armor in the hips. Key impact zones are also reinforced with heavy-duty, rip-stop, abrasion-resistant fabric.

But notice how the rider moves in the video. Thanks to a generous, articulated cut, the Dust Rider doesn’t make the pilot feel like a stiff robot. It allows total freedom of movement, making them feel lighter and more agile on the bike. For low-light situations, built-in reflective panels ensure they stay visible.

A Place for Everything

For the rider who loves organization, this suit is a dream, packing 8 pockets into the jacket and 4 into the pants—all easily accessible.

• The Rear Storage: The large lower pocket on the back of the jacket perfectly stows the rain shell when it’s not in use.

• Hydration on the Move: The upper back pocket is dedicated to a hydration bladder, complete with a pass-through port and routing loops to keep the hose right where it needs to be.

The Verdict

Whether a rider prefers their pants over the boot or tucked inside, the Dust Rider delivers. It prioritizes cooling, refuses to compromise on safety, and packs a brilliant, lightweight rain system—all wrapped up in some seriously sharp Touratech styling.

To gear up for the next hot-weather adventure, riders can head over to Touratech-USA.com or give us a call today.

1. Perform a Deep Winter Inspection

Winter prep starts with understanding the condition of your bike before you dive into upgrades.

Checklist:

• Check the frame, welds, and mounts for corrosion or wear

• Scan tires for cracks, flat spots, or low tread

• Inspect cables and hoses for brittleness or damage

This foundational inspection helps you pinpoint what parts you’ll benefit from replacing or upgrading.

2. Upgrade Protection & Armor

Adventure bikes take hits — rocks, branches, and road debris are a given. Enhance your machine’s resilience with Touratech protection parts.

Great Touratech options:

• Radiator guards – safeguard your engine cases and radiators from heavy hits

• Skid plates – high-strength aluminum plates to protect the underside

• Crash bars – engineered to distribute impact if you go down

Not only do these upgrades protect your bike, they can also reduce repair costs and keep resale value high.

3. Improve Suspension for Your Next Ride

Cold weather is ideal for suspension work. Take this time to inspect and upgrade your forks and shocks if needed.

• Replace worn fork seals

• Service your shock — clean, lube, and evaluate condition

• Consider Touratech Suspension for better load handling and comfort

Smooth suspension equals better stability and confidence on every road.

4. Install Comfort & Ergonomic Upgrades

Your comfort matters — especially on long rides. Winter is the perfect time to test and install enhancements.

Recommended Touratech upgrades:

• Handlebar risers — for a more upright, comfortable position

• Handguards — protect your hands and levers from branches or flying debris

• Seat upgrades — options for all-day comfort in any conditions

These make riding more enjoyable and keep fatigue at bay.

5. Tune and Replace Critical Components

Fine-tuning improves performance and reliability.

• Fresh fluids: Brake, coolant, fork oil, and engine oil

• New filters: Air and oil filters for peak engine health

• Spark plugs: Replace if they’re worn or out of spec

Use this time to clean components thoroughly — dirt and grime build up fast on adventure rigs.

6) Are the release pucks any different?

6. Battery Care & Electrical Upgrades

Cold weather can be brutal on batteries. Make sure yours is ready to charge up for spring.

• Use a battery tender over the winter to maintain charge

• Check connections, terminals, and wiring

• Upgrade to a Touratech USB/Power port for easy gadget charging on the go

A healthy electrical system makes starts reliable and accessories easy to power.

7. Clean, Protect, and Store Smart

A clean bike is a happy bike. Spend a session washing and protecting components, then store with intention.

• Wash thoroughly, paying attention to chain, sprockets, and wheels

• Apply corrosion inhibitors to bare metal parts

• Store in a dry, covered place with a breathable cover

• Make sure your Tool Kit is updated and ready for roadside or trailside repairs or adjustments

Proper storage prevents rust and keeps seals supple.

8. Plan Your Spring Adventures

Winter prep isn’t just mechanical — it’s mental! Spend time planning your next big rides.

• Map routes and research terrain

• Choose gear and luggage (Touratech panniers are adventure classics)

• Upgrade your on-bike Navigation

• Create a packing checklist

Having a plan makes spring come faster — and gives you something to look forward to every day.

Winter Isn’t Wasted Time — It’s Preparation

The off-season doesn’t have to be downtime. With a little care, quality parts, and some thoughtful upgrades from Touratech, your motorcycle will be stronger, more comfortable, and ready to take on any adventure.

Let the trails warm up — but in the meantime, get to work.

Need to speak with a Touratech Adventure Expert? Call 1.800.491.2926 or go here to chat with us!

Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone

Excitement quickly mixed with nerves. This trip was going to stretch me in a few ways:

• Riding in a foreign country on unfamiliar terrain.
• Navigating airports and customs as an infrequent flier.
• Spending a week with strangers as a self-described introvert.

But motorcycles have always pushed me out of my comfort zones—from learning to ride, to meeting new people, to taking solo trips. I’ve learned that growth often hides just beyond fear. In fact, psychologists describe the process in stages: fear zone (butterflies, sweaty palms, doubt), learning zone (seeking skills and knowledge), and growth zone(gaining confidence, setting new goals). Signing up for this tour was my way of embracing that cycle.

Tackling the Travel

Travel logistics were my first hurdle. Thankfully, Shal and Emma made it simple with airport shuttles and packing tips. I chose flights with long layovers, which stretched the journey but gave me time to breathe, find my gates, and relax. By the time I landed in Belize, my travel worries had already begun to shrink.

Finding My People

The anxiety about spending a week with new people melted away almost instantly. Despite our different ages, backgrounds, and riding experience, we connected right away—motorcycles will do that! We encouraged each other through challenges, celebrated wins, and built genuine friendships. I’m still in touch with many of them, proof that sometimes our fears are just stories we tell ourselves.

Riding, Learning, Growing

The biggest area of growth for me was riding. Muddy trails and Belizean traffic tested my skills, but with Shal’s coaching and Emma’s local knowledge, I felt supported the whole way. Each morning began with bike drills, and Shal sprinkled in tips about traction, line selection, and body positioning throughout the rides. We ended some evenings with group debriefs, reflecting on lessons learned.

By the end of the week, my confidence in challenging terrain had grown immensely. I also realized just how much I’d been relying on luck (and momentum!) rather than real skill. Now I have a list of techniques to practice at home—and a new hunger to keep improving.

Beyond the Bike

This wasn’t just a motorcycle tour—it was a Belizean adventure. Between the rides we:

• Swam beneath jungle waterfalls.
• Tubed down rivers I never imagined I’d float through.
• Explored Mayan ruins.
• Toured a cocoa farm.
• Learned about local plants and wildlife with Emma as our guide.

It was so much more than riding, eating, and sleeping. Calling it a “tour” feels too small. This was an adventure of a lifetime—one I’ll carry with me forever.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered what’s waiting beyond your comfort zone, I can tell you: growth, friendship, skills, and memories that will last a lifetime. For me, Belize wasn’t just about motorcycles—it was about proving to myself that I could do hard things, and finding joy in the process.

So if you ever get the chance to ride Belize (or Belize + Guatemala) with Shal and Emma—take it. It might just change the way you see yourself.

For information on a similar tour, visit SheADV Events.

If you’re prepping for an adventure on your motorcycle let Touratech USA help you gear up yourself and your bike for the ride!

1. Better Control on Rough Terrain

Adventure riding often means dealing with rocky trails, ruts, washboard roads, and unexpected obstacles. Upgraded suspension systems offer improved damping and rebound control, keeping your tires planted and your handling predictable. The difference is especially noticeable in technical terrain where stock suspension may “pack up” or lose composure. Poorly performing suspension can be dangerous especially in off-the-pavement conditions!

2. Increased Comfort for Long Rides

The limitations of stock suspension make you work harder than you should to control the bike. This can lead to muscle strain and fatigue while riding. Premium suspension components soak up bumps more effectively, smoothing out the ride and reduces the physical effort needed to control the bike. The result? You’ll feel more comfortable, have more energy, and feel fresher, helping you enjoy the ride without fading near the end of the day. You might actually start playing with the terrain features instead of avoiding them!

3. Custom Tuning for Your Weight and Gear

Adventure riders often load their bikes with panniers, tools, camping gear, and sometimes a passenger. Stock suspension is set for an average rider weight of 170-180 lbs and can quickly become overwhelmed with heavier loads. Upgraded systems allow you to adjust preload, compression, and rebound for your exact loadout, ensuring optimal performance whether you’re running light or fully packed.

4. Improved Braking Stability

A tired or undersprung suspension can cause excessive front-end dive during braking, reducing control and increasing stopping distances. With upgraded springs and damping, your bike stays more level, helping your tires maintain grip and stability under hard braking—critical when you have to stop quickly and safely on gravel, sand, or pavement.

5. Enhanced Cornering Confidence & Fun Factor

Better suspension doesn’t just improve off-road performance—it transforms your on-road handling too. Stiffer springs and improved damping help keep your bike planted in corners, reduce wallowing, and deliver more precise steering feedback. You’ll feel more confident carving through twisty backroads or navigating tight mountain passes. Your ride will simply be more FUN!

6. Greater Durability, Reliability and Serviceable

Stock suspension components can fail under sustained hard use, especially when carrying heavy loads over challenging terrain. They also begin to degrade around 15,000 miles and need to be replaced at 20,000 miles. Upgraded systems are built with higher-quality materials, better seals, and superior heat dissipation, making them more resistant to wear and less prone to failure in the middle of nowhere.

When it’s time to service your Touratech Shocks we simply replace the oil and any wear items and you continue to enjoy the same shock. 

7. Adjustability for Changing Conditions

An adventure can throw every kind of surface at you in one day: smooth pavement, rough gravel, deep sand, and rocky climbs. High-quality suspension gives you the ability to fine-tune settings for each scenario—whether you’re dialing in more plushness for sand or firming things up for high-speed road sections.

8. Reduced Bottoming Out

Fully loaded ADV bikes hitting a deep pothole or drop-off can easily blow through their travel, leading to a harsh bottom-out that’s bad for your bike and your body. Upgraded suspension with proper spring rates and progressive damping dramatically reduces this problem, protecting both your components and your spine. Touratech sets the rear shock and/or fork cartridge spring rate according to your individual riding style & weight!

9. Boosted Rider Confidence

When your suspension is dialed in, your bike feels more predictable and capable. That confidence translates into smoother lines, better throttle control, and the willingness to tackle more challenging routes. Upgrading suspension doesn’t just change your bike—it changes the way you ride.

10. Increased Resale Value

A well-maintained bike with premium suspension is a strong selling point. Prospective buyers know the value of a quality suspension upgrade, and it can help your bike stand out in a crowded used market. In many cases, a top-tier suspension system retains significant value if you ever decide to sell it separately.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your adventure motorcycle’s suspension isn’t just about comfort or performance—it’s about unlocking the full potential performance and fun of your bike. Whether you’re tackling the Backcountry Discovery Routes, riding two-up across continents, or just chasing weekend dirt, premium suspension gives you the control, safety, and endurance to go further with confidence.

Your motorcycle can only perform as well as the components that connect it to the ground. Make sure those components are ready for wherever your next adventure takes you.

Touratech Suspension is simply the best suspension made for Adventure Motorcycles. Touratech Suspension is designed, manufactured and tested specifically for ADV riding. It’s serviceable for years of use and the ultimate upgrade to your riding experience.