Special Comparison 2026: The Revolution of A2 “Lightweight” Trail Bikes

Special Comparison 2026: The Revolution of A2 “Lightweight” Trail Bikes

For some time now, you’ve been asking us what the best option is, and as always, the answer largely depends on the intended use. And to some extent, on your off-road riding skill level. At Gas&Fun, we’ve thoroughly analyzed four machines that, in our opinion, are breaking the mold and are the most serious options if you want to get started in Trail Off-road: the KTM 390 Adventure R, the CFMOTO 450MT, the Rieju Aventura 307 R, and the Kove 450 Rally.

In the world of Trail riding, 2026 will be remembered as the year users stopped prioritizing horsepower and started valuing kilograms. Which is best for an amateur user who wants to progress? Let’s get into the details!

KTM 390 Adventure R: The “Ready to Race” DNA, now in a Trail bike.

KTM has finally listened to its followers. The new “R” isn’t just a facelift; it’s a Gen 3 platform with an all-new multi-tubular chassis and a removable subframe.

• Engine: The 399cc LC4c block delivers 45 HP. Although the engine has a particular mechanical sound when cold, it shines above 5,000 rpm. Its weak point remains the lack of low-end torque, forcing you to use the gears more on technical climbs.
• Chassis: WP APEX suspensions with 230 mm of travel, adjustable in 30 clicks. It is, arguably, the most balanced setup for absorbing impacts without losing stability on the road.
• Electronics: It’s the queen here. Cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and an Off-Road mode that allows controlled drifting.
• Ideal for: The rider who seeks maximum technology and a bike that forgives mistakes thanks to its rider aids.

Rieju Aventura Rally 307 R: The “Unicorn” of lightness.

The Spanish brand has opted for extreme agility. It’s a bike that feels like a “big” enduro but with aerodynamic protection.

• Engine: 293cc single-cylinder (Zongshen/Loncin) with 33.5 HP. It’s not a bike for winning speed races; you won’t have excess power. But its traction in difficult areas is surprising. And in many cases, more than enough.
• Range: Its 21-liter tank is legendary. In mixed use, you can get close to 500-600 km of range. It’s the ideal bike to forget about looking for gas stations on trans-Pyrenean routes.
• Weight and Handling: At just 137 kg dry, it’s the easiest to move. If you fall (and in Trail riding, you will fall), picking up this bike is child’s play compared to its rivals. Depending on the type of outings you’re planning, weight can be an important factor.
• Ideal for: The amateur user who prioritizes technical Off-Road, mechanical simplicity, and ease of handling over pure performance.

Kove 450 Rally: From the crate to the desert.

This bike plays in another league. It’s a replica of the bikes that race the Dakar, now refined for daily use in its 2026 version. Undoubtedly, the most enduro-oriented and Pro version of the four we are comparing.

• Engine: A 449cc high-compression single-cylinder with 42 HP (A2 license compliant). It’s a noisier engine with stricter maintenance, but its throttle response is immediate.
• Suspension: No competition here. 310 mm of travel at the front and 300 mm at the rear (in the High Seat version). It can ride over ditches at 100 km/h without you even noticing.
• Capacity: Three independent tanks for a total of 30 liters. Its weight distribution is perfect for sand and mud.
• Critical points: It’s tall (960 mm seat height), narrow, and its price is far from what those looking for an economical bike expect.
• Ideal for: Off-Road purists, raid participants, and anyone who dreams of dunes and navigation.