Looking for advice, KLR650, VStrom 650 or BMW F650GS

[novaboy]

Hi Folks,

I just got back into biking after a 7 year break. I had a couple of crotch rockets before, 2 CBR600's, and now I have a a very cheap to operate, and buy, CBR125R I use as a commuter.

I'm looking at getting a dual purpose, something I can tour on once a year; Trans Labrador Highway, next year, and to commute back and forth to work and to ride some dirt roads and trails, nothing too gnarly.

A friend of mine has a Vstrom 650, I really like it, but I'm afraid it maybe too big for trails, and in Canada new ones are almost the same price as the BMW. I've always been a Bimmer fan, but can't afford the 1200GS, but the 650GS seems like a good bike. The KLR650 is a good price and seems to be a well respected bike. I'd like something that was comfortable on the highway as it was on the gravel.

Comments, suggestions.............

Cheers

[Wildman]

It's not an unbiased opinion but I'd say an F800GS. Great tourer, nippy around town, superb in the gravel. F650GS is nearly as good but cheaper.

[PuraVida]

I've had the 650GS since spring, and like it a lot. It's been on plenty of local trips, through Oregon twice and down to California once. It's comfortable, handles beautifully and has decent power on the highway. I've taken it on light desert and logging road excursions, and while I don't have the skill to push the bike to the limits there, it handled well, kept up with the pack just fine and was a lot of fun.

As for the 800, I would have purchased it if it were available earlier as it addresses the few issues I have with the 650 (small windscreen, soft front brake, less power) but overall I'm very happy with the bike.

Good luck, hope that helps.

[tedder]

This same question has come up plenty of times- you'll find plenty of advice and opinions here:
http://www.google.com/search?q=site%...om&btnG=google
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q...50&btnG=Search

[zaner32]

Hi there fellow NB'er. Of all the bikes you listed, i'd say the KLR is certainly the most bang for your buck. I've had one and enjoyed it very much other than the fact that it had very little power in reserve once you got to 120 Km/h. The KLR is very top heavy on the trail. If you're a big guy, 6 feet or more, you'll be more than likely happy with the KLR once the suspension is upgraded.

I have no idea about the WeeStrom. I find it's an OK bike, but don't expect to go out trailing with it. I hear it's quite dependable.

The F650GS will do well anywhere except for serious off road, and with 71HP on tap, it'll be more juice than you'll need on the highway. The F650 GS is especially nice for people who are vertically challenged. There are two new model F650GS at the Atlantic Motoplex. One low mile red one, and a new grey one. PM'ing you more info.

[novaboy]

Thanks for the replies fellas,

I'm still kinda sitting on the fence, it's between the KLR and the 650GS. I'll let you all know how I make out. The price of the KLR maybe the tipping point.

Cheers

[fiep]

Originally Posted by novaboy

Thanks for the replies fellas,

I'm still kinda sitting on the fence, it's between the KLR and the 650GS. I'll let you all know how I make out. The price of the KLR maybe the tipping point.

Cheers

which KLR and which F650?
until 07 both were a lot smaller, lighter, more nimble
BMW drives me nuts with their double denomination
and the new KLR looks a lot like a single cylinder DL

either year if money [and finding a competent dealership] is not an issue I'd go BMW

[novaboy]

I'll be looking at new, 2009. The closest Bimmer dealer is an hour away, but I have a Kawasaki one in town, and the price of the KLR is much easier on the pocketbook. In Canada, I'm looking at over $10K for the 650GS before mods, and $6800 for the KLR.

[Zapp22]

in your territory, I would patiently look for a used X-Country.

Originally Posted by novaboy

Hi Folks,

I just got back into biking after a 7 year break. I had a couple of crotch rockets before, 2 CBR600's, and now I have a a very cheap to operate, and buy, CBR125R I use as a commuter.

I'm looking at getting a dual purpose, something I can tour on once a year; Trans Labrador Highway, next year, and to commute back and forth to work and to ride some dirt roads and trails, nothing too gnarly.

A friend of mine has a Vstrom 650, I really like it, but I'm afraid it maybe too big for trails, and in Canada new ones are almost the same price as the BMW. I've always been a Bimmer fan, but can't afford the 1200GS, but the 650GS seems like a good bike. The KLR650 is a good price and seems to be a well respected bike. I'd like something that was comfortable on the highway as it was on the gravel.

Comments, suggestions.............

Cheers

[Wildman]

Originally Posted by Zapp22

in your territory, I would patiently look for a used X-Country.

Nice bike.

[Wolfgang55]

There are other bikes that will fit in your area selection, now is the time to take your time. Test ride as many as you can.

I now have an 08 KLR & 06 DL-650.
The KLR has over 11,000+ miles w/ several up grades that have brought it upto the cost of the DL-650. Don't kid youself about the KLRs, they may look like a dirt bike but they are very heavy. The KLR has an almost clut like following, so tech help is there. There are several needed mods that this bike requires for the individual rider to best enjoy it.
The DL-650 has only a skit plate & rear hard cases. This DL-650 has 21,000+ miles.
It can actually earn better MPG that the KLR. It is also a heavy bike that is best suited on the pavement. Both bikes have large fuel tanks that I like for touring. Both bikes can be packed down like a mule.
But the DL-650 is the most dependable bike I have ever owned or ridden. You can honestly do 700-800 mile days on the VStrom. Then oil the chain again.

Both bikes can be lowered easily, if that is an issue.

Have you considered a lighter used bike to play off road & a used bike for the street?

You may spend the same for two as you would for one new. Have fun shopping!

[Bo Pop Pop]

FWIW - an owner report:
- KLR: Sold my much loved '00 last summer after 30K miles, much of that in rugged Western U.S. mountain and desert. The only non-consumable part that ever broke was a weld between the tail pipe and muffler at 26K - $40 to re-weld. Just a GREAT bike if you ride significant amounts off road and your pavement riding is back road and short commuting. Actually, a pretty awesome city traffic bike too. But NOT a great long-day-in-the-saddle choice.

- DL650: Owned it now about 3 months and am having a ball! Just right for my current ride preferences - long pavement trips with occasional gravel and minimal non-technical dirt riding. Smooth and reliable, fairly priced, long range capable - an UGLY that kinda grows on ya.

Consider (not yet discussed here):
- DR650: Lower cost than the KLR but less range due to small tank (after-market tank available). Lighter and more nimble off-road with good reliability record. Even more uncomfortable than KLR on the highway.

- A smaller 2nd bike: For times when you need a serious dirt fix. Truck or trailer it to the ride area. Used mid 80's-90's plated Dual Sports are pretty inexpensive. Some barn queens can be found out there with a lotta life still in 'em. For that reason I have several small Honda's (bought with less than 2K miles on the ODO) that are cheap, light, fun and near bullet-proof.

Ahh, the choices . . good luck!

[drbike]

I own a KLR, been from Inuvik to Mexico, a solid bike great bang for the buck. Super easy to work on, easy to maintain, will go anywhere and its simple. Cheap to own and loads of farkles available.

The wee is a nice road bike and I am sure that people will disagree but it is a road bike, there is just not much clearance, much harder to wrench on, but its a very reliable bike suitable for both pavement and gravel roads.

I have not ridden a 600 GS the 800GS is a big bike with good clearance and lots of get up and go. I am sure its going to be a great bike for ADV riding. I was surprised it felt more like my 1150 GS than the KLR. When you buy a beemer your sort of buying into an expensive system.

Bottom line if your frugal the KLR may be the way to go, if your into paved roads and good gravel roads the wee will be a charmer GS sort of an unknown. Ride them all and buy the one that talks to you.

[Johnny Dakar]

Beemer.

[blackie]

The Beemer!! but then I might be biased