The adventure motorcycle market is booming, with options ranging from lightweight commuter bikes to massive overland rigs. However, one newcomer stands out for its aggressive design and uncompromising approach: the AJP PR7. This Portuguese-built machine isn’t for casual riders; it’s a direct descendant of the original Paris-Dakar rally bikes, built to tackle serious terrain.
AJP: The Undiscovered Brand
AJP is a small manufacturer specializing in high-performance off-road machines. Like Gas Gas, but hailing from Portugal, they’ve recently expanded into the road-legal market. The PR7 is their statement: a no-nonsense ADV designed for riders who prioritize capability over comfort.
Performance and Price
At $13,999, the PR7 sits in a competitive price bracket, facing off against established midweight adventure bikes. Despite its 600cc single-cylinder engine, it’s priced like a premium off-road machine. This is because AJP doesn’t compromise; it’s a large enduro bike at heart, prioritizing performance over luxury features.
The engine produces around 60 horsepower, which is less than KTM’s 79 horsepower 690 Enduro R. However, the PR7’s power-to-weight ratio is competitive at 100 HP/liter. This bike forgoes modern conveniences like cruise control or ride modes; it relies on a simple cable throttle and the rider’s skill.
Chassis and Suspension
The PR7’s aluminum-steel composite chassis keeps the weight down at just 364 pounds. It features a fully adjustable ZF Sachs suspension with 11.8 inches of travel in the front and 11 inches in the rear, offering serious off-road capability. The wheels are enduro-spec, requiring tubes for optimal performance in rough terrain. Brembo brakes provide stopping power, though the lack of ABS is a notable omission.
The bike’s dimensions are aggressive: a towering 36.2-inch seat height and over a foot of ground clearance. This makes it intimidating for beginners, but ideal for tackling challenging landscapes.
Minimalist Features and Tech
The PR7 doesn’t rely on flashy electronics. Instead, it offers rugged mechanical components like billet triple clamps and footpegs. A small LCD display provides essential information, while a unique Samsung tablet mounted in a rally-style tower handles navigation and data logging. The tablet runs Android, allowing riders to customize the interface.
Competition and Alternatives
The PR7 occupies a unique niche between dual-sport and adventure bikes. Rivals include the KTM 690 Enduro R and Husqvarna 701 Enduro, both of which offer more advanced electronics. The Aprilia Tuareg Rally 660 and KTM 890 Adventure R Rally are also competitors, but the PR7’s aggressive styling and minimalist approach set it apart.
Kove’s 800X Rally is a close competitor, offering more power and features at a similar price. However, the AJP PR7 stands out for its raw, uncompromising character.
The AJP PR7 is not for everyone. It’s a machine built for riders who demand performance over comfort, and who aren’t afraid to push their limits. If you’re looking for an ADV that prioritizes capability and aggression, the PR7 is a serious contender.
