A Wild Adventure Test Ride in Sweden

If you're an adventure bike enthusiast, you know that the perfect ride is a personal choice. Whether it’s a sturdy machine capable of covering thousands of kilometers on mixed terrain or a nimble bike for more technical off-road adventures, each rider's needs are different. Enter the AJP PR7, a bike that promises both lightness and off-road capability. In this article, I take you along on a thrilling test ride of the AJP PR7 in the stunning wilderness of Sweden.

The Search for the Perfect Adventure Bike

As an owner of the Yamaha Ténéré 700 (T7), I’ve clocked over 80,000 kilometers on tarmac, dirt roads, and light off-road trails. The T7 has been an excellent companion, offering both comfort and capability. However, when it comes to more technical terrains, the T7’s weight (over 200 kilograms) becomes a challenge. I’ve often hesitated to tackle tougher routes without backup, due to the risk of getting stuck.

That’s why I started looking for a lighter, more agile bike for my more adventurous trips, and the AJP PR7 was high on my list. Through AJP Nordic, I had the unique opportunity to take this bike out for a real-world test ride—complete with wild camping in Swedish nature. This wasn’t just a spin around the block; this was a multi-day, off-the-grid adventure designed to put the AJP PR7 through its paces.

First Impressions of the AJP PR7

The AJP PR7 immediately caught my eye with its lower height and race kit. Compared to the T7, it was easier to mount and felt noticeably lighter. Even with around 20 kilograms of camping gear strapped on, the PR7 felt agile and nimble. The seating position was comfortable, though the footpegs were positioned slightly higher than I was used to, creating a steeper angle in my knees. Nevertheless, the sitting posture was ideal for long hours of riding.

One of the most significant differences between the AJP PR7 and my T7 was the suspension. The long suspension on the PR7 is specifically designed for off-road use, and you could feel it—especially during braking, where the bike would dive noticeably. Despite this, the suspension performed exceptionally well on uneven terrain, making it a smooth ride through the rugged Swedish landscape.

Into the Swedish Wilderness

With the bike packed and ready, I set off for a multi-day adventure around the largest lake in Sweden. My riding partner Mattias and I had planned a gravel route that would take us through remote trails, offering the perfect opportunity to test the PR7’s capabilities.

The first challenge was a gravel road with no grip in the rear tire—an issue I quickly noticed, but one that the PR7 handled admirably. The 17-liter fuel tank was more than sufficient for long rides, allowing me to travel over 300 kilometers without worrying about running out of gas.

Standing up on the PR7 felt natural, though the bike had a more aggressive stance than my T7. This bike begged to be ridden hard, and I couldn’t help but push it. The lightweight frame and excellent suspension made the PR7 an absolute joy to ride on trails. Even with 20 kilograms of luggage, the bike felt light and responsive.

A Swedish Adventure Tradition: Kissing the Tall Tree

A fun and quirky tradition marked the beginning of our adventure. Mattias led me to a tall tree in Dalsland, a spot where local adventurers are known to start their journeys. According to Mattias, kissing the tree is a rite of passage, and I dutifully complied, giving the tree a quick peck before we continued north.

As we ventured further into the wilderness, the AJP PR7 continued to impress. The bike handled the technical terrain effortlessly, with the suspension smoothing out the bumps and rocks along the trail. Even when the rain came in, forcing us to seek shelter and dry off, the PR7 remained reliable and easy to handle.

Wild Camping and Swedish Nature

One of the highlights of this trip was the opportunity to wild camp in Sweden. Thanks to Sweden’s "Allemansrätten" (Right of Public Access), we were free to set up camp in nature as long as we left no trace and didn’t disturb anyone. We found a secluded spot, built a campfire, and enjoyed a well-deserved ADV burger, a staple meal for any adventure rider.

Sleeping in a hammock under the stars, with the PR7 parked nearby, was an experience I won’t soon forget. As the sun rose and the rain clouds cleared, we packed up our gear and set off for another day of adventure. The rain from the previous day had turned the trails into a muddy challenge, but the PR7 handled it with ease, its suspension once again proving its worth.

The Final Verdict: AJP PR7 vs. Yamaha T7

After several days of riding, I had a clear understanding of the differences between the AJP PR7 and my T7. The PR7’s suspension stood out as the most significant improvement, effortlessly absorbing shocks from the terrain. The bike’s lightness made it much easier to handle in tricky situations, reducing the tension in my arms and shoulders that I often feel on the heavier T7.

While the PR7 excels in off-road capability and technical terrain, it doesn’t lose much in terms of comfort. The bike's gear ratios are well-spread, making it suitable for both off-road trails and highway cruising. The wind protection on the PR7 is also better than expected, making long-distance travel more comfortable than anticipated.

However, the PR7 isn’t without its quirks. The loud exhaust system, while fun for short rides, might become tiring on longer journeys. The fuel tank’s design also means it takes slightly longer to fill up, though this is a minor inconvenience. The bike’s tablet-based navigation system could be improved, as I had some issues with its usability in the rain.

Conclusion: A Wild Adventure Worth Repeating

Overall, the AJP PR7 proved to be an excellent companion for this Swedish adventure. Its combination of lightness, agility, and off-road capability made it a joy to ride, especially in technical terrain. While the Yamaha T7 remains a fantastic adventure bike for long-distance rides, the AJP PR7 offers a more playful, off-road-focused experience that’s hard to beat.

If you’re looking for a bike that can handle both wild camping trips and technical off-road trails, the AJP PR7 is definitely worth considering. It’s lightweight, fun to ride, and comes well-equipped for adventure. As for me, I’m seriously considering adding one to my garage for those wilder, more adventurous rides.

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