Is there really a difference between dual sport and adventure bikes, or is it purely academic/theoretical? Dual sport bikes are generally believed to be lighter, have smaller engines (up to 650 cc) and are more suited to off-road conditions. Adventure bikes, on the other hand have big, powerful engines of 650 cc or more, are much heavier and feature electronic rider aids that make them safer and more comfortable touring on pavement. Some riders used the terms DS and Adv interchangeably.