So I have a dilemma. I currently have a '04 Concours with a GIVI top trunk, Hela Bars, and other assorted doo-dads, but it doesn't do real well on gravel, and I'm always worried about the damage that would happen if I ever dropped it. But I also like the luggage, the shaft drive, the handling (compared to other big bikes), and the fact that it's fairly basic to maintain.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o> <o></o> However, I have the urge to explore beyond the pavement, and the cost effectiveness of the KLR is mighty intriguing, along with the plethora of aftermarket goodies to make it even more off-roadable, not that I'll likely be climbing mountain goat trails on it anytime soon.<o></o> <o></o> The reason this would be an either/or decision is I have limited garage space and my banker (aka, my lovely wife ) said I can only get a new motorcycle if I can trade the Connie for another one essentially straight up. I'd love to be able to own both bikes, but that's just not going to happen right now (something about a new baby and planning to build a house in the next year seems to make funds a little tight...).<o></o> <o></o> So, as a newbie to this message board, I figured all of the expert/highly opinionated members could provide some advice. So what are your suggestions and words of wisdom?
I went from a 2002 Connie to a KLR and was happy with the trade. I gave away a bit (very small bit) of comfort for a giant increase in utility. The connie was obviously great for cruising slab. The KLR is definitely more fun on twisty backroads and could take light offroading. I could carry as much on the KLR with soft or hard bags and plastic is much cheaper for the KLR. Low speed i.e. parking lots, etc is much easier with the KLR. It's not as smooth as Connie though. Think about how you'll be riding.
Everyone is different and all that stuff... I owned my Concours (a 1991) since 1997, and just bought a KLR last year. Once the KLR showed up, I never rode the Concours any more. For me, personally, the KLR is better in every way except 2-up riding. for ME, the KLR is just as good on the freeway (but I'm pretty pokey, I am happy cruising at 65-70). Better really, cause the thumper style vibration, while noticable, does not numb my hands the way the Concours buzzzz did, and since neither of them handle the wind very well, that's sort of a wash. At least the KLR leaves you out in the wind instead of a head banging buffetting all the time... I can get through an unknown set of twisties about the same on either bike, for me it's really limited by vision anyway. Granted the KLR doesn't have the straight line speed or accelleration of the Concours (or a minivan, for that matter ), so if you're into that sort of thing it may not satisy you. It can, however, take you anywhere the Concours can, and many places the Concours cannot.
That's the kind of advice I'm looking for. I knew you guys would pull through . The Versys is a good suggestion. Hadn't thought of that. I'll have to see about getting a test ride on both models at the local dealer...
I have a connie ('86) and it sucks for gravel. Right now it's SOOOO cheap to own I keep it for those "I need to travel a long way in a hurry" events. If I were to replace it, a 'strom (650 or 1000) would be the bike. In the case of the 1000 it has at least the power of the connie and all the handling, the ability to lug stuff, ride two up, PLUS gravel roadability. The 650 is the same except for power (not that it's shabby or anything).
i don't fit well on an old style Connie in stock trim. i haven't tried the new one. the new KLR doesn't quite appeal to me. first suggestion would be to consider keeping the Connie and getting an old KLR for cheap. V-Strom or Versys are also options.
Do some measurements, then sell the Concours and buy a used KLR and a smaller roadbike for the money, both should fit in the space the Connie took up!
You could do what I did,I bought a 2000 Connie for $1500,salvage title but sweet. And then pick up a ;83 XL600 for $600 Best of both worlds and the banker is happy. Got to keep the Connie though because I haven't figured how to load the XL as much as her.
Depnds on the type of riding you will do.... Another post had the correct answer which is what I have done... 2 bikes. Only you know how much you'd use each.
So, the "banker" says only 1 bike? Why settle for a KLR? Go the whole bit and grab a KTM690, it's still only 1 bike, right? Don't sell yourself short man, always go one better than before. Life should be an upgrade path, not treading water!
you will like the motor much better, coming off the connie, with the versys. versys is a 650 twin. versys is much less off-road oriented than klr. versys is good for county dirt dirts & primary graded forest rds. tire selection is the biggest issue, but there are a few options. http://www.happy-trail.com/Departments/Make-Model-Specific/Kawasaki/Versys.aspx http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productlist/652/
Yeah the ground clearence leaves something to be desired. Found out on my annual camping trip to Moosehead Lake I pack a bit for 5 days.