I always choose bikes based on 3 criteria: It must be pleasing to look at, put a smile on my face when I ride it and it has to be reliable. This time, there were also a few other things to take into consideration.

Katrine is a proficient rider on tarmac and has some experience with off road riding, but she isn’t strong and it would be beneficial to choose relatively light bikes that are easier to handle – especially when the going gets tough. At the same time we needed something substantial enough to carry luggage and offer reasonable long distance comfort.

I had more or less decided on the Yamaha T7 when Honda released the CRF 300 Rally. At first I was concerned if I could live with the puny engine? After perusing reviews from journalists and owners, giving the subject a lot of thought and doing a test ride I eventually came to the conclusion that the 300 Rally with a few modifications would fit the bill.
It’s light and nimble yet comfortable, off-road capable, has a decent fuel range, long service intervals and a reputation for being exceptionally reliable.

Riding small bikes would also help remind us not to waste time on the highway but instead use the more interesting back roads.