For dirt bike enthusiasts who want more versatility, adding street tires to a dirt bike opens up a whole new world of riding possibilities, and one of the best options for this is a dual sport bike.
Dual sport bikes are designed to be used both off-road and on-road, thanks to their versatile design.
Which includes both off-road features like smaller rear wheels, softer suspension, and skid plates, as well as on-road features like headlights, mirrors, and DOT tires (street tires).
The good news is that pretty much every major powersports manufacturer produces several street-legal dual sport bikes, straight from the factory.
The bad news is that it can be hard to know which ones are the best.
So we thought we would highlight some of the best dual sport bikes with street tires that excel at off-road and on-road adventures.
For those who already own a dirt bike though and want to add street tires to their bike, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered as well.
As we’ll also cover everything you need to know about converting your existing dirt bike into a street bike, by adding street tires and other on-road requirements. (To go straight to this section click here.)
What is a Dual Sport Motorcycle?
Dual sport bikes, sometimes called dual-purpose bikes, are a versatile type of street-legal machine optimized for both on-road and off-road riding.
They bridge the gap between highway-focused street motorcycles and dedicated dirt bikes.
Dual sports offer a blend of features that make them capable both on pavement and dirt.
Some of these features include:
- DOT (Department of Transportation) approved knobby or dual-purpose street/dirt tires for traction on varied terrain.
- Durable, tubular steel frames and chassis and protective plastics ready for off-road abuse.
- Higher ground clearance than standard street bikes.
- Suspension travel of at least 7 inches to absorb bumps and landings.
- A power band focused on low-end and mid-range torque for traction rather than top speed.
- Large fenders to block mud and debris.
- Mandatory DOT road requirements, like headlights, brake lights, turn signals, speedometers, and mirrors.
With dual sport bikes, riders can explore almost any terrain on two wheels.
They open up a world of adventure from wilderness fire roads and technical single-track to scenic backcountry touring.
Because of this, they’re one of the most popular types of bikes on the road and trails today.
Top Dual Sport Bikes: Dirt Bikes With Street Tires (Least to Most Powerful)
| Make/Model | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Yamaha XT250 ⬇ | 249cc Air-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 22 hp | 14.4 lb-ft | $5,400 |
| 2. Honda CRF300L Rally ⬇ | 286cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 27 hp | 26.6 lb-ft | $6,150 |
| 3. Husqvarna FE350S ⬇ | 349.7cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 32.4 hp | 20.9 lb-ft | $12,200 |
| 4. Suzuki DR-Z400S ⬇ | 398cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 31.8 hp | 24.3 lb-ft | $6,200 |
| 5. Honda CRF450RL ⬇ | 450cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 38.2 hp | 27.8 lb-ft | $10,000 |
| 6. KTM 500 EXC-F ⬇ | 510.9cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 64 hp | 28.6 lb-ft | $12,100 |
| 7. Husqvarna FE501S ⬇ | 510.9 cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 44.5 hp | 32 lb-ft | $12,500 |
| 8. Kawasaki KLR 650 ⬇ | 652cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 36.9 hp | 35.4 lb-ft | $6,000 |
| 9. Honda XR650L ⬇ | 644cc Air-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 40 hp | 47 lb-ft | $7,000 |
| 10. KTM 690 Enduro R ⬇ | 692.7cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke | 63 hp | 47.9 lb-ft | $11,800 |
1. Yamaha XT250
Quick Specs
- Engine: 249cc Air-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 22 @ 8000 rpm
- Torque: 14.4 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm
- Weight: 291 Pounds
- Seat Height: 32.7 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.5 Gallons
- Tires: Bridgestone TW-301
- Average Cost: $5,400
The Yamaha XT250 dual sport bike brings versatility and reliability both on and off-road in an accessible package.
This lightweight 249cc thumper has been in Yamaha’s lineup since the 1980s, earning a reputation over the decades as a fun-loving and indestructible machine capable of confidently tackling any riding adventure.
When straddling the nimble XT250 you immediately notice its beginner-friendly ergonomics, featuring a low 32.7-inch seat height and slim design to accommodate riders of varying heights and experience levels with easy mounting and dismounting.
Its gray styling gives the XT250 a sleek modern look, while the steel semi-double cradle frame provides a rigid platform for crisp handling on the street and winding trails.
Power comes from a proven air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke single with smooth and predictable power delivery to handle paved roads or uneven terrain.
For more information on the Yamaha XT250, check out Yamaha’s website by clicking here.
2. Honda CRF300L Rally
Quick Specs
- Engine: 286cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 27 @ 8000 rpm
- Torque: 26.6 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm
- Weight: 331 Pounds
- Seat Height: 35.2 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 3.4 Gallons
- Tires: IRC Trails GP
- Average Cost: $6,150
The Honda CRF300L Rally is a 286cc dual sport/adventure bike in Honda’s lineup, positioned between the smaller CRF300L and larger CRF450RL models.
Priced at $6,150 on average, it features a liquid-cooled 286cc single-cylinder DOHC 4-stroke engine producing 27 horsepower and 26.6 pound-feet of torque, delivering adequate power for both highway and off-road use.
The steel frame and suspension are upgraded, with a 43mm inverted fork bringing 10.2 inches of travel at the front and an adjustable preload Pro-Link single shock at the rear, again allowing 10.2 inches of wheel travel.
Ergonomically, the Rally sits taller with a 35.2-inch seat height.
It also has an easy-to-read display, LED headlight, storage for tools under the seat, and a 3.4-gallon fuel tank, which provides around a 250-mile range.
For more information on the Honda CRF300L Rally, visit Honda’s website by clicking here.
3. Husqvarna FE350S
Quick Specs
- Engine: 349.7cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 32.4 @ 8400 rpm
- Torque: 20.9 lb-ft @ 7600 rpm
- Weight: 254 Pounds
- Seat Height: 37.4 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.4 Gallons
- Tires: Continental TKC
- Average Cost: $12,200
For those looking for the best 350cc dual sport bike, the Husqvarna FE350S needs to be on your shortlist, as it offers class-leading capability and handling.
Thanks to its cutting-edge high-performance tech and design.
Built on the FC350 motocross platform, the FE350S is a 350cc dual sport bike, featuring a single-cylinder 4-stroke engine tuned for smooth power delivery, which produces just under 40HP while meeting EPA standards.
The chassis offers a subframe made from lightweight polyamide and aluminum, which provides exceptional strength and durability.
As well as soft-sprung WP XACT front forks and a rear WP XACT Monoshock, which is best suited for technical off-road use rather than long highway rides.
With an average price of $12,200 though, there’s nothing cheap about the Husqvarna FE350S, as it’s double the price of comparable-sized dual sport bikes.
Considering its best-in-class performance and off-road handling though, plenty of riders are willing to shell out for the best of the best.
To learn more about the Husqvarna FE350S, check out Husqvarna’s website here.
4. Suzuki DR-Z400S
Quick Specs
- Engine: 398cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 31.8 @ 8400 rpm
- Torque: 24.3 lb-ft @ 5800 rpm
- Weight: 317 Pounds
- Seat Height: 36.8 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.6 Gallons
- Tires: Bridgestone Trail Wing
- Average Cost: $6,200
The Suzuki DR-Z400S is an iconic 398cc dual sport bike offering proven off-road capability in a street-legal package.
Best known for its bulletproof reliability and adaptation, its utility-focused design features a reliable, torquey, carbureted single-cylinder engine, adjustable long travel suspension, and spoked wheels wrapped in a blend of on/off-road appropriate Bridgestone Trail Wing tires.
With a curb weight of around 317 pounds, a diamond block frame, and a seat height of 36 inches, the DR-Z handles nimbly while being tall enough to deliver decent ground clearance on trails.
The display on the bike keeps it simple, providing essential info like speed, trip miles, and fuel gauge without a bunch of extra complications.
For more information on the Suzuki DR-Z400S, visit Suzuki’s website by clicking here.
5. Honda CRF450RL
Quick Specs
- Engine: 450cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 38.2 @ 7360 rpm
- Torque: 27.8 lb-ft @ 6400 rpm
- Weight: 289 Pounds
- Seat Height: 37.2 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2 Gallons
- Tires: IRC GP21 & GP22
- Average Cost: $10,000
The CRF450RL is essentially a barely street-legalized version of Honda’s CRF450R dirt bike.
It features the same 450cc engine as the race bike, just tuned for improved reliability and versatility. This gives it a potent low-end punch better suited for trails than roads, however, it is capable of both.
At 289 pounds, it’s also very lightweight with a 37-inch seat height.
Its minimalist design provides only the necessary street components like lighting and instruments to make it road-legal.
The standard IRC GP21 and GP22 tires on the CRF450RL can be used on the road but are better suited for the trails, as they are very dirt-oriented tires with an especially knobby tread.
While certainly capable for experienced riders, the CRF450RL’s extreme power, twitchy handling from the dirt chassis, and lack of amenities make it a handful in low-speed city riding.
The lofty $10K price tag also limits its appeal beyond hardcore dual-sport enthusiasts.
For more information on the Honda CRF450RL, check out Honda’s website by clicking here.
6. KTM 500 EXC-F
Quick Specs
- Engine: 510.9cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 64
- Torque: 28.6 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm
- Weight: 255 Pounds
- Seat Height: 37.9 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.25 Gallons
- Tires: Continental TKC 80
- Average Cost: $12,100
The latest KTM 500 EXC-F features an all-new frame, bodywork, and updated 500cc fuel-injected single-cylinder engine.
The chassis and ergonomics on the bike lean towards the brand’s motocross models for more aggressive riding.
In its stock form, the 500 EXC-F comes equipped with DOT-approved Continental TKC80 tires fine for light off-roading but not hardcore trails.
While surprisingly capable on the stock rubber, most riders will prefer swapping to more aggressive DOT knobbies.
The suspension can feel rigid initially but breaks in over time, making it a great fit for both off-road and on-road riding.
The new frame aims for more precision handling while the redesigned body panels give sharp KTM styling.
Overall at an extremely lightweight 255 pounds, this Euro machine delivers legitimate dirt competence with the convenience of a license plate.
As was the case with the above Husqvarna FE350S though, there’s nothing cheap about the KTM 500 EXC-F, as all that precision handling and capability costs a pretty penny.
Like the Husqvarna, though if you’re looking for the best-of-the-best when it comes to off-road and on-road capability it’s hard to beat the 500 EXC-F.
To learn more about the KTM 500 EXC-F, visit KTM’s website here.
7. Husqvarna FE501S
Quick Specs
- Engine: 510.9cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 44.5 @ 8400 rpm
- Torque: 32 lb-ft @ 6900 rpm
- Weight: 259 Pounds
- Seat Height: 37.5 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.1 Gallons
- Tires: Continental TKC
- Average Cost: $12,500
If there was ever a direct competitor to the above KTM 500 EXC-F, it would have to be the Husqvarna FE501S.
In fact, these two class-leading dual sport bikes are so similarly matched it’s hard to separate them.
The fuel-injected 510cc FE 501S offers a stiff frame and extremely capable suspension while still retaining the smooth, tractable power delivery Husky is known for.
The SOHC engine in the FE 501S, originating from the Husqvarna FC 450 motocrosser was tuned to meet stringent emissions and sound standards for the road.
Giving the bike an exceptionally quiet yet punchy platform.
Suspension is geared more towards comfort than racing with ample travel in the front and rear.
And at just over 250 pounds, the FE 501S feels remarkably light and nimble on the trail, while still being stable at high speed on the road.
Priced at $12,500 on average, the refined FE 501S satisfies the most fanatic Euro enthusiasts wanting Husky’s refined take on high-performance dual-sport machines.
For more information on the Husqvarna FE501S, check out Husqvarna’s website by clicking here.
8. Kawasaki KLR 650
Quick Specs
- Engine: 652cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 36.9 @ 6100 rpm
- Torque: 35.4 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
- Weight: 460.6 Pounds
- Seat Height: 34.3 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 6.1 Gallons
- Tires: Dunlop K750
- Average Cost: $6,000
If you’re looking for a dirt bike with street tires, that leans more toward street performance, the Kawasaki KLR 650 is one of the best options out there.
The KLR 650 delivers substantial real-world capability both on the street and off with an affordable $6,000-ish price tag, which makes it one of the most popular dual sport bikes on the market, especially for those shopping on a budget.
Offering tremendous value, the KLR 650 is powered by a 651cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine producing around 37 horsepower and 35 pound-feet of torque.
This gives it adequate power for highway cruising while maintaining the tractable delivery suited for off-road exploration.
With a curb weight of 461 pounds, the bike is on the heavier side, however, with a seat height of 34.3 inches, the KLR strikes a balance between capability and accessibility.
Where this bike really shines though is on the road, as it offers a robust tubular steel frame, a front windshield, a full display, upgraded suspension, and EFI, which improves the reliability and versatility of the machine.
Plus, thanks to its 6-gallon fuel tank and 50-plus mpg, it offers a 250-plus mile range enabling serious adventure touring on a budget.
To learn more about the Kawasaki KLR 650, visit Kawasaki’s website here.
9. Honda XR650L
Quick Specs
- Engine: 644cc Air-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 40
- Torque: 47 lb-ft
- Weight: 346 Pounds
- Seat Height: 37 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.8 Gallons
- Tires: IRC Trails GP
- Average Cost: $7,000
The legendary Honda XR650L is powered by a 644cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine producing around 40 horsepower and 47 pound-feet of torque.
Offering a push-button electric start, the XR650L is truly a bike you can just jump on and go.
However, with a curb weight of 346 pounds and a tall 37-inch seat height, the XR650L is oriented more toward experienced dirt and road riders.
Equipped with several stylish blacked-out bits like the wheels, seat, fork boots, and tool bag, the current XR650L has a very rugged utilitarian look.
Which is a good match for its steel frame and long travel suspension, which easily handles rough terrain and more technical trails.
With an average price of around $7,000, the XR650L is an affordable, straightforward, honest, and proven design that represents motorcycle essentials done right, which is why it’s still such a popular model thirty years later.
To learn more about the Honda XR650L, check out Honda’s website by clicking here.
10. KTM 690 Enduro R
Quick Specs
- Engine: 692.7cc Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
- Horsepower: 63 @ 7500 rpm
- Torque: 47.9 lb-ft @ 6550 rpm
- Weight: 306 Pounds
- Seat Height: 35.8 Inches
- Fuel Capacity: 3.17 Gallons
- Tires: Continental TKC 80
- Average Cost: $11,800
If you’re looking for the ultimate dirt bike with street tires and have the budget, one of the best dual sport bikes you can buy is the KTM 690 Enduro R.
The 690 Enduro R features a high-revving 693cc single-cylinder engine producing 63 horsepower and 48 pound-feet of torque, making it a competent off-road and on-road performer, and one of the most powerful dual sport bikes on the market.
Its dirt bike DNA shines through in the 35.8-inch seat height, WP suspension with long travel, and spoked wheels wrapped in Continental TKC80 tires.
Which provides traction and stability both on the road and off.
At around $12,000, the technology-laden KTM 690 Enduro R brings legitimate racetrack competence to all types of exploration and adventuring, regardless of whether you’re on asphalt or dirt.
For more information on the KTM 690 Enduro R, visit KTM’s website here.
Benefits of Putting Street Tires on Your Dirt Bike
Converting your dirt bike to dual-purpose or street tires offers many benefits and opens up lots of new possibilities for riding.
Here are some of the biggest advantages of making the switch from knobbies to street rubber:
- First Step to Making Your Bike Street Legal – Putting DOT-approved tires on your dirt bike is usually a requirement to make it street legal. This allows you to ride on public roads and expand the areas you can access.
- Longer Range Riding – Street-oriented tires offer much better wear resistance compared to soft off-road knobbies when riding on pavement or hardpack surfaces. This improves stability at highway speeds and enables longer adventure touring.
- Customization and Rider Preference – Street tires allow you to customize your bike’s capabilities. Softer compound tires work well for lighter off-road use while harder compounds provide better longevity on extended street rides.
- Improved Safety and Handling – Many street tire options offer better grip, traction, and handling on paved and hardpacked dirt roads than true dirt knobbies, especially in wet conditions.
- Convenience and Cost Savings – Riding to off-road spots on street tires allows you to bypass trailering costs. Some riders mount dual-purpose tires to avoid swapping between dirt and street wheels/tires.
How to Convert Your Dirt Bike to a Street Bike
Transforming your dirt bike to street-legal status requires more than just throwing on different rubber.
Here are the basic general steps to convert to DOT-approved tires and safety equipment necessary to convert your dirt bike into a street-legal bike:
- Select Appropriate Sreet Tires – Choose a quality set of DOT-rated street tires like the Dunlop D606 Dual Sport Tires or the Pirelli MT21 Rallycross Tires with an aggressive enough tread for your off-road needs. Make sure the sizes match what your dirt bike rims and fenders can accommodate.
- Add Street Legal Components – Install DOT-approved lighting (headlights, brake lights, turn signals) and accessories like mirrors, license plate holders, speedometers, and horns to meet state-specific road vehicle requirements.
- Upgrade Electrical Components – Increase stator (alternator) output and install a regulator/rectifier and battery to power the required lighting and electrical components with DC power rather than AC.
- Title and License the Bike – Register the converted bike with your local DMV or BMV and pay fees to get it legally plated for road use.
- Adjust Suspension (Optional) – Reconfigure suspension stiffness and preload settings to provide more stability and less give at highway speeds.
- Rework Jetting & Gearing (Optional) – Heavier street tires can require tweaking air/fuel mixtures and gear ratios to regain lost acceleration. This also provides a chance to unleash more power.
(These steps should only be used as a general guideline, as you should always check with your state agency in charge of licensing, titling, and registration, to determine specific requirements, as they do vary from state to state.)
The good news, however, is that with a little research, the right tires, and some mechanical elbow grease, you can turn your trusty trail bike into a road-ripping dual sport machine ready for on and off-road adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
A dirt bike equipped with street tires is commonly referred to as a “dual-sport” or “supermoto” motorcycle, designed for both off-road and street riding.
Street tires can be fitted onto a dirt bike to enhance its on-road capabilities. Converting from dirt to street tires is often the first step to transforming a standard dirt bike into a dual-sport motorcycle, suitable for both paved roads and off-road conditions.
You can install dirt tires on a street bike to handle off-road conditions, effectively turning it into an adventure or dual-sport motorcycle. However, this requires compatible wheels and may impact the bike’s on-road performance. It’s important to note that not all street bikes are suitable for this modification due to clearance, suspension, and frame constraints.
A street-legal dirt bike is typically called a dual-sport motorcycle.
Dirt Bikes With Road Tires Wrap-Up
Dual sport motorcycles, or dirt bikes equipped with street tires, offer the best of both worlds for riders who want the thrill of off-road trails and the practicality of street riding.
As they can handle both forms of riding equally well.
For those who already own a dirt bike though, it is possible to convert your standard dirt bike into a street-legal dual sport machine.
By adding street-legal equipment like mirrors, lights, and a horn, and swapping knobby tires for DOT-approved street tires.
However, before you convert your dirt bike into a street bike it’s important to first figure out exactly what’s required by your state to make the bike street legal, as requirements do vary from state to state.
Additional Dirt Bike Resources
Looking for even more information on dirt bikes? If so, check out some of our other blog posts.