There’s been a better time to be in the market for a mid-capacity adventure bike, as a number of newly-developed models hit dealerships this year. In this edition of Countdown, we highlight three bikes that we’re most excited to see arrive in 2019.

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3. 2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure:
Boasting high-level touring capability, absolute long-distance suitability, sporty dynamic riding and superior off-road qualities, the 2019 BMW F 850 GS is an all-round adventure machine. Following the newly-developed BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS presented in 2017, the new F 850 GS Adventure now expands the premium BMW Motorrad range. Like the legendary boxer-engined BMW GS Adventure role models, the new F 850 GS Adventures now offers dedicated travel enduro riders, off-road oriented touring riders and globetrotters the perfect companion in the middle class for exploring the remote corners of the planet by motorcycle. Pricing and availability is still to be confirmed.

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2. 2019 Yamaha Tenere 700:
First breaking cover in prototype form in 2017, the Yamaha Tenere 700 is one of the most highly-anticipated adventure bikes to hit the market. The rally-bred dual-sport 689cc parallel twin by the compact CP2 engine, which is known for its strong and linear torque output that gives instant throttle response together with outstanding acceleration – attributes that make it a capable and versatile performer on and off the road. Paired with that is an all-new lightweight double cradle tubular steel frame that combines a low weight with immense strength, making it ideally suited a variety of riding conditions. Available in December 2019, the Yamaha Tenere 700 is priced at an incredible RRP $15,499.

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1. 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R:
Breaking cover at roughly the same time as the Tenere 700 in prototype form, the 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R has equalled – if not exceeded – in anticipation. Developed from KTM’s off-road race DNA, the 790 Adventure R is a serious off-road motorcycle equipped for extreme terrain. With the hardcore adventurer in mind, it balances the power of a twin, with the lightness and agility of a single-cylinder off-road bike, to open up new riding possibilities. It offers an impressive fuel range without compromising agility, feeding a powerful yet compact, smooth and reliable engine, complimented by a tubular CroMo steel frame engineered to be compact yet strong to handle harsh conditions. Priced at RRP $22,695, the Adventure R is due to arrive in Australia this June.