Dual Purpose DR650 Vs. DRZ400S Vs. KLR650

[News Groupie]

Trying to decide between the two Suzuki models, the DR650 and the DRZ400S,
and the Kawasaki KLR650. I believe that I will spend at least 75% of the
time on the road. I am sure that either of the Suzuki models would
outperform the Kawasaki on the dirt but like I said I plan to spend at least
75% of my time on the road.

Here's what I like about the KLR650:

Fairing
Rack On Back
6.1 Gallon Gas Tank
Skid Plate
Liquid Cooled
Electric Cooling Fan
Temp Gauge
Price

Here's what I don't like about the KLR650:
Inadequate Front Disc Brake
Weight 337 Pounds (Dry)
Probably Not Great Performance On Dirt
Color

I would appreciate all comments, either talking me out of the KLR or into
it.

Thanks, Spence

[J Payer]

Spence,

If I was in your shoes, I'd go for the DRZ-400S. It will be twice the
bike the other two are in the dirt. I know you said 75% of the time
will be spent onroad, but I don't think it will give up too much to the
bigger DR or the Kawasaki in the dirt.

The aftermarket is going to be loaded for things for the new DRZ's also,
which is always a factor to take into consideration.

On a side note, I know a guy who moto's a KLR650, lights and all, and
does really well, but, then again, he's an A rider (not on that bike)
and it looks like an *awful* handful.

Good luck with your choice, let us know what you decide.

J&K

[Mean Gene]

News Groupie wrote:
Trying to decide between the two Suzuki models, the DR650 and the
DRZ400S, and the Kawasaki KLR650. I believe that I will spend at least
75% of the time on the road.

There is also the Honda XR650L that fits between the DR650 and DRZ-S
whenit comes to offroad seriousness.

Are you going to do any adventure touring?
1. KLR650
2. DR650
3. XR650L
4. DRZ-S

What is the 25% dirt riding going to be like? If it is just fireroad
type stuff, any of the bikes will work.

If it is going to be really tight stuff .
1. DRZ-S
2. XR650L

If I was buying a bike for in town commuting and general dirt riding
including tight stuff, I would buy the
DRZ-S.

If I was going to ride a 100-200 ml at a time and general offroad with
tight stuff, I would buy the XR650L.

If I was going on weekend tours plus mild offroad riding with no tight
stuff, I would buy a KLR650.

The DR650? It just never cranked my tractor.

If the budget allows I would look at the KTM RXC and Adventure R as
well.

JMHO

Gene K
00 GG300EC
99 KLX300R (For Sale)

[agwier]

take a look at the honda xr650l. i just bought one after a few years
on harley davidsons and love it. very smooth on the highway and tall
and quick in the city. have also had it on some pretty serious dirt
and it faired well. heavy, but not bad to ride in tight trails. i did
not like the seat height so i bought a lowering link that lowered the
bike one and a half inches.

don't know to much about the others except for the way they look, and in
some cases that ain't to good.