08-16-2022, 03:08 AM
(08-16-2022, 02:52 AM)Rboe_imp Wrote: Affordable and Africa Twin - the unicorn bike. LOL
A buddy has had several DR650's (I currently have a XR650L) and it is my ever so humble opinion the DR650 would be an excellent choice. Lower (for our aging backs), Lighter than your KLR (for our aging backs) and some upgrade power options (for our younger hearts) if that is something that floats your boat. The CRF300L is also recommended, although suspension upgrades may be called for. In which case it starts to get a wee bit pricey (assuming you can even find one in stock!).
My main concern (after price) is the higher center of gravity of the AT. Many folks have a difficult time picking her up if she takes a nap. I have yet to try it - and I should before I buy. To make sure it won't kill me. But oh man, the leg room!
I rode a friend's XR650 for a stretch...a bit more beasty than the KLR. Both the DR and KLR have caught up to the Honda XR price.
I think I'd like to try the DR650 in part because I've never owned a Suzuki bike, but more so for reasons you mentioned. Plus it's similar to the KLR650 in several ways that bring about some familiarity. But I like the no radiator of the DR.
(08-16-2022, 02:52 AM)Rboe_imp Wrote: Affordable and Africa Twin - the unicorn bike. LOL
A buddy has had several DR650's (I currently have a XR650L) and it is my ever so humble opinion the DR650 would be an excellent choice. Lower (for our aging backs), Lighter than your KLR (for our aging backs) and some upgrade power options (for our younger hearts) if that is something that floats your boat. The CRF300L is also recommended, although suspension upgrades may be called for. In which case it starts to get a wee bit pricey (assuming you can even find one in stock!).
My main concern (after price) is the higher center of gravity of the AT. Many folks have a difficult time picking her up if she takes a nap. I have yet to try it - and I should before I buy. To make sure it won't kill me. But oh man, the leg room!
I also like the CRF300L and it's up there for consideration as well. But the thing I like about my KLR is the larger displacement for hiway travel, which I do quite a bit of to get to areas I like (eastern OR)...do-able on the 300...but different. I like the KLX300 as well.
The AT is attractive, but the price isn't. KLR / DR / XR / CRF / KLX...all of them say to me: "go ahead, drop me, I don't care and you won't either". An AT...likely I'd contanstly be concerned.