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| *Vultures Knob>>>Street Bike |
I want a serious dual purpose bike. Any recommendations? |
If I could get a Honda Africa Twin, that would be my first choice, but they are unavailable in the states. I know there are decent 650's like the Transalp, and XLR650. I'd prefer at least 750cc's but will consider as low as 600cc. I want something good for the street and AZ deserts with dependability and long range. Cargo and 2up capacity is also needed. I've been in your shoes so I know EXACTLY what you're talking about. Let's face it with dual sports - you either get a bike that's really good at street but not so great in the dirt or it's the other way around - a great dirt bike that lacks in street manners. Really the thing to do is pick one or the other and live with what you get. If you're like me, I prefer the more dirt option. If that's the case, the Honda XR650L is the right choice. I've been to Baja with one of these and it's the weapon of choice since parts can be shipped just about anywhere on the planet usually in a day or two. If you do any series off road stuff you'll want a larger fuel tank capacity but other than tires (get the Pirelli MT-21's) you won't need anything. Some people don't want the added weight of an electric starter but I'm here to tell you there's nothing like having a "go button" when you're out in the heat and you're trying to kick that big motor over. If you're more likely to do street vs. dirt the old Kawasaki KLR is the way to go. But keep in mind that this bike is a pig through heavy sand and mud. The KLR has a huge following with web sites and accessories up the wazoo. I'm 6'5" and tip the scales at 245LBS so I like a big bike. Right now I have a 95 BMW R1100GS and bikes don't get much bigger than that. I would NEVER take this bike off road but people do. Do a Google search for a web site called ADVENTURE RIDERS. That should get you pretty jacked up. Make sure you check out the photo pages. Personally I prefer the XR vs. the KLR. Much better in the dirt. I have had both bikes. Source(s): 22 years of motorcycle experience. BMW F650 Dakar Got some serious cash: BMW R1200GS Both bikes can be loaded up like pack mules. The 1200 is more suited for 2-up riding and it has a 8.7 gallon tank. Your butt will go numb before you run out of gas. Have you seen "Long Way Round?" Great DVD set, about two friends that take their BMWs all the way around the world, from London through Europe & Asia, Alaska to New York....Great series! Look at the KTM lineup. They have always made some good dual purpose bikes. KTM K T M makes a nice big bore dual purpose |
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