How to choose the best lightweight adventure bikes︱Cross Training Adventure

crosstrainingenduro.com The best lightweight adventure bike between 120 to 175kg?
0:46 Best lightweight adv bikes in the past
1:46 Adventurizing a big bore enduro bike?
2:10 CCM GP450 (now discontinued)
2:29 Honda CRF450L
2:52 Dual sport 250s from Japan
3:36 Suzuki DRZ400
3:59 KTM 690 Husqvarna 701
4:16 Honda XR650L
4:33 AJP PR7 from Portugal
4:55 KTM 390 Adventure
5:18 Suzuki DR650
5:37 Kawasaki KLR650
5:59 SWM Superdual 650
6:20 Kawasaki Versys 300 and BMW G310GS
Four years ago I discussed the myth of the light weight adventure motorbike. Is it possible to choose the best lightweight bike that is light enough to handle some basic dirt riding, but also handle long adventure rides. We are especially interested in the Suzuki DR650, SWM Dual Sport, AJP P57, CCM 450, CRF450L, BMW G310GS, DRZ400, KTM 690 and KTM 390 Adventure. Our main criteria? Between 120kg and 175kg (dry weight), decent sized fuel tank, decent oil capacity, preferably a 21" front wheel, good balance between performance and reliability, and still available in 2020 as a new bike. The problem? There used to be a lot of bikes that came close to this. The Husqvarna TE610. The KTM 640. The Honda Dominator NX650. And my personal favourites? The Honda XR650R. Honda executives should be shot for not updating this mighty beast. Imagine this with electric start and fuel injection to meet emission standards. And of course the incredible Husaberg FE570. KTM executives should be shot for not continuing this design in an adventure style. Sigh. But nowadays most so called lightweight adventure bikes are like humans, and getting fatter and heavier all the time. I am about to buy light weight adventure motorbike I will announce my choice at the end. Here are the candidates. Plenty of guys adventurize big bore dirt bikes. I have been down that road with several bikes. It's always the same issues. Small fuel tank, small oil capacity, horrible seat, higher maintenance engine, no cush drive hub. It gets expensive trying to fix those issues, personally I think there are too many compromises involved. If I did go down that road again, it would probably be the rock solid Yamaha WR450F. The next heaviest is the CCM GP450 at only 125kg dry weight. \Many felt this was going to be the perfect light weight adventure bike with it's big fuel tank and oil capacity. A real shame. Next is this relatively new model from Honda, the CRF450L. It's a detuned version of the racing model but it still has the same issues. Getting heavier... the Japanese dual sport 250 as a lightweight adventure bike? We have Honda's CRF250L, Yamaha XT250, Kawasaki KLX250 and Yamaha WR250R. For many years these have been very popular in the USA as cheap light weight adventure bikes. Personally I am not sure why. The Suzuki DRZ400 is around the same weight, in most cases around the same price and has much more power of course. But it is very interesting to see Honda adapted the CRF250L into a Rally model. We need more than just the DR650, SWM Dual Sport, AJP P57, and BMW G310GS. Next it's the good old Suzuki DRZ400. A bit heavier and a crazy amount of horsepower, the KTM 690. Talking about cheap old style bikes, next is Honda's XR650L. Many guys have adapted these for adventure riding, and we compared it recently to the KLR650 and DR650. It's just a pity Honda didn't slap on an oil cooler and cush drive hub to provide more competition for the SWM Dual Sport, AJP P57, KTM 690 and Kawasaki Versys 300. Back to KTM, it's the KTM 390 Adventure. Great fuel and oil capacities, zippy engine. Plus it's made in India so time will tell if it doesn't hold up as well as the Austrian built KTMs. Next is the very cool looking AJP PR7, clocking in at about 155kg. Another golden oldie from Suzuki, the venerable DR650. Largely unchanged since 1996, this cheap reliable air cooled workhorse is still popular as few cheap mods can fix the known issues and transform its handling and power characteristics. The SWM Superdual. We mentioned the excellent TE610 earlier, it has slowly morphed into this much heavier beast. And now we are getting toward the heavy end of our chosen limit with the Kawasaki KLR650. And to wrap up, we have the Kawasaki Versys 300 and the BMW G310GS.
Hopefully that gives you a quick overview of what is possible in the light weight adventure bike category. What did I choose? I have just bought another Suzuki DR650 instead of the SWM Dual Sport, AJP P57 or KTM 390 Adventure.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Picking the best bike
00:46 Previous contenders
01:41 Modified enduro bikes
02:10 CCM GP450
02:29 CRF450L
02:52 Dual sport 250s
03:36 DRZ400
04:00 KTM 690
04:16 XR650L
04:55 KTM 390
05:17 AJP PR7
05:37 KLR650
06:00 SWM Superdual
06:20 Versys 300 & G310GS
Music: Marko Furstenberg
#lightweightadventurebikes #lightadventuremotorbike

[@crosstrainingadventure]

INDEX (extra notes further down) 0:46 Best lightweight adv bikes in the past 1:46 Adventurizing a big bore enduro bike? 2:10 CCM GP450 (now discontinued) 2:29 Honda CRF450L 2:52 Dual sport 250s from Japan 3:36 Suzuki DRZ400 3:59 KTM 690 Husqvarna 701 4:16 Honda XR650L 4:33 AJP PR7 from Portugal 4:55 KTM 390 Adventure 5:18 Suzuki DR650 5:37 Kawasaki KLR650 5:59 SWM Superdual 650 6:20 Kawasaki Versys 300 and BMW G310GS CORRECTION: Wet weight for Yamaha's XT250 is 133kg, not 124kg. BIKES MISSING FROM THE LIST? I wasn't aware of the Husqvarna 701 Long Range model, this definitely needs to go on the list (see below for potential issues with this bike). Others have mentioned bikes like the Yamaha T7, Royal Enfield Himalaya and V-strom 650 but these are all well over our weight limit of 175kg. We left out bikes like the TW200 and DR200 as you really need at least 250cc to do highway speeds comfortably. MISTAKES IN THIS VID! Doh the XR650R is not air cooled, it's softer brother the XR650L is air cooled. Also I show a pic of the R model when discussing the L. Finally, the first vid had an incorrect ending so fixed it and re-uploaded this version. Apologies for those whose comments now aren't showing. INTERESTED IN THE AJP PR7? Thanks to PracticalAdventureMotorcycler for his notes... Things he liked? Great price, very cheap in the USA. The computer tablet! Plenty of power. Reasonable wind protection. Ordered parts arrived quickly (in the USA). The bad? Skidplate doesn't protect the exhaust well, was dented very quickly. Exhaust rubs on the swingarm. Hated the seat (but others love it). Suspension too firm. Bad filler 'neck' when trying to fill the tank, keeps spilling. Turn radius is far too wide. Airbox does not seal, lets dust in. AM I BEING RACIST TOWARD MOTORBIKES MADE IN INDIA? Until recent years all KTMs were made in Austria. The Austrians, Germans and Japanese are known for exceptional quality control. All other countries fall somewhere below this. The early KTM 390 models have had various issues. Is this poor quality control? I'm not sure, but time will tell. We are NOT assuming a motorbike made in India will be poor quality. However, a healthy scepticism will acknowledge there's a good chance the quality control will be lower on a motorbike made in Australia, Italy, Spain or India. I would be equally sceptical about a motorbike manufactured in my own country until years of positive results showed our quality control was up to scratch. INTERESTED IN THE HUSKY 701 LR OR KTM 690R? Many riders have trouble-free riding on their 690 or 701, but many have problems. It's the high percentage of failures that is the real issue. Fo earlier models, read this comment from a KTM mechanic in 2015... "I am a KTM fan and we work with them, but the 690 is the most unreliable dirt bike out there. Fuel pumps, rocker arm bearings, electrics, injectors, you name it, it suffers from it. Yes there are 690s out there that have never had an issue, not saying there aren't, but overall, its an unreliable machine. It was designed to be a roadbike, frame wise. They just decided to put dirt suspension on it. It has a huge wiring loom, and it has not just one ECU but two. One to do the normal stuff, the other to govern the throttle. They are awesome to ride, loads of fun, but as a bike to do trips on? It's not for me. Everyone I know with one (bar one actually) has had problems with it." But what about later models? The 690 and 701 had a radical makeover for 2019 and it looks as though some issues like the rocker valve bearings may have been fixed. I did a quick google around to see what issues were being reported for the 2019 model. There were recalls for the cam sprocket bolts needing Loctite and problems with the traction control. Some owners reported issues with the rev limiter coming in too early and engine light problems (sometimes with the engine stalling too) - one owner was given a new bike when KTM couldn't resolve the problem. There are other cases of various problems with electronics, probably not surprising with a revamped model. Prematurely leaking countershaft seals, clutch slave cylinder fails and bad seals on the airbox are still an issue for some 2019/2020 models and have been right from the start. Check relevant KTM and Husky forums on how to fix some of the known issues, or carry the necessary parts on long rides in remote areas so you won't get stranded. Reviews suggest that the stock engine now runs much more smoothly than the older ones did, which is great news if true! GREAT INFO FROM AN SWM SUPERDUAL OWNER On early models, the oil screen filters fell apart in the engine causing lots of problems for some owners. And rear subframe bolts were snapping, just like the old Husky TE 630 days. These were both fixed in recalls and thankfully have been the only two major issues. Smaller stuff? The bolts strip on the airbox when over tightening-also a carry over problem from the TE630. SWM has a Chinese owner, but thankfully most of the bike is still manufactured in Italy. ... engines, frames , wheels , suspension, brakes. Only plastics and some other electrical components made in China (like most brands ). ABS from 2018 onwards on the rear ( on dirt was over sensitive) if you didn’t switch it off - rear only front stayed on , some owners made a toggle switch on the bars to switch front off as well . Unfortunately SWM May not be making the Superdual anymore due to euro 5 and the engine not being able to meet this.

[@jerseyjeeper1575]

I think Husqvarna gives a two year warranty on the 701 too, KTM a one year. At least that’s how it was when I got mine. Pretty long service intervals as well.

[@asserkalsbll4008]

agree - for sure the 701 HAS to be on that list.

[@jonny24lv]

Well interesting fact about CRF250L and CRF250 Rally suspension. as far as i know it is the same suspension. Same shock in the rear and similar One spring setup in front (maybe different oil for added weight). since i own the CRF250L can tell you right off the bat the rear shock not adjustable and usually require minimum of spring change if you want to carry anything on the bike or ride offroad. with my weight i bottom it out easily. That was my first upgrade - HyperPro rear shock now the bike feels super good :)

[@ktmfour1007]

No ktm exc 400 247lb 44hp or a exc 500.. 690 is more road oriented

[@toltod]

Yeah, I keep really liking the looks of the Yamaha T7, but then remember how heavy it will be to pick up compared to my Husky 501.

[@paulsmith9497]

Really doesn't matter what you own, get on, ride it, enjoy it.

[@mc8627]

Can’t enjoy it if it’s shit

[@franciscarreon6908]

The dealer forced me to get a Yamaha Tracer 900 for it was in the showroom for a year. I originally wanted a Kawasaki Z400 or a Harley sportster. After a year and a half of riding the Yamaha I am now ready for a long trip with my dogs from Los Angeles to NV, UT, CO, NM AZ and back to Cali. This a fun hooligan sleeper bike.

[@MarkDaleADV]

I only come on here and talk shit when I'm not on one of my imperfect bikes! Just because we are momentarily keyboard warriors, does not always mean our day jobs are not intrepid adventurers!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I think it depends on your tolerance for shit. Me? I don't care too much about what I'm riding as long as it doesn't break down. But I did ride with a guy who was pretty close being OCD. He was extremely unhappy with riding his bike unless it was perfectly clean, set up exactly how he liked it, and had various bits of bling. The moment something wasn't quite ride he absolutely hated riding. Most of us fall somewhere between these two positions.

[@countdracula7938]

Yup

[@BikerBytes]

Bought a DR about 4 months ago after wrestling with an F800GS. Best move I ever made, I can do so much more on this bike and it’s reawakened my spirit for adventure 💪👍

[@fmacdonald3559]

I am looking to go down the same path but worried about the lack of power on the roads heading for the dirt?

[@BikerBytes]

@@fmacdonald3559 I've just modded my carby and put on an after market exhaust. Lots more power 💪

[@DaveZee01]

​@@fmacdonald3559Most adv rides I go on seem to comprise of more tar than off-road terrain, which makes one wonder whether being able to ride a more road biased bike off-road, is not the way to go, if possible. My son bought my F800GS from me and takes his gf with him on any adv trip, while I trundle along at a max of 90km/h on my li'll XR150 on the long tar sections 😢

[@joewilliams9862]

​@fmacdonald3559 hi bud, what did you do in the end? I'm in the same boat. Wrestling an f800 gs and I'm only small (5'8).

[@TwoTubesADV]

​@@joewilliams9862got two bikes now, wanted something that would do the miles so was going to sell the DR and get a KTM or Desert X but that would be sacrificing too much so I kept the DR and bought a Triumph Scrambler 1200XE 🤙 During this time Biker Bytes became TwoTubesADV 👍

[@RidingOnEggshells]

We both got DRs after watching your full series on them. Loving it so far and constantly coming back to learn new things from your vids. Great video!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Great to hear... currently my brother and I are enjoying doing all the usual mods to ours. 😁

[@macneoh7418]

Just got the Yamaha XT250 and couldn't be happier

[@jamescox4823]

I regret selling mine

[@youtubeaccount5153]

WR250R. 5’11”, 225 lb.s. 60 years old. This bike has done everything I’ve asked it to do. Just getting back in to off road riding. Haven’t attacked the black diamond trails yet. But this bike can lumber very slowly and then responds well to the throttle. I don’t enjoy speed off road. Prefer technical challenges. Easily cruises at 65 mph on the road. So far very happy with it.

[@timsgta]

Theres no way you're jumping at 60, I worked with a guy who broke his ankle at 56...

[@youtubeaccount5153]

@@timsgta not planning on doing a lot of jumping. Would love to be able to get the front tire off the ground to clear small, medium logs. Other than that just happy to trail.

[@timsgta]

@@youtubeaccount5153 agreed, not doing any jumps over 3 or 4 feet myself...

[@Corey_Fox]

Proud owner of an 06 Drz 400 with all of the adventure mods. Love the bike and it’s reliability. I did a 10,000 mile trip in 2018 and only issue were worn brushes on the starter and rejetting for altitude. The bike is light enough and preforms well. It’s still my go to adventure bike, nearing 55,000 miles on it.

[@jsamt5789]

Original bore?

[@Corey_Fox]

@@jsamt5789 Yep OE piston and bore. Ive adjusted the valves four times on it. They seem to stay in spec for at least 15,000 miles or so. @minimallimits on instagram for more info on the bike.

[@DorkintheRoad]

LOVE my DRZ but for longer-range stuff I'd definitely prefer the DR650. You made an excellent choice!

[@n.cg.s.c5796]

I'm a big fan of your channel btw🤙🏼

[@DaleRoossien]

Just picked up an XR 650l, have been having a blast on it, does everythinh I need.

[@elgringoec]

Mine's been great!

[@kBIT01]

The XR is a beast.

[@DaleRoossien]

@@kBIT01 Mine is a bit of a raft, but after being away from bikes for over 25 years, instead of dropping 15k on a brand new KTM, I figured I'd ease back in with a cheap option and have no worries re: dropping it and running the hell out of it. I thought, next year if you're still into riding, I can always Buy up and get a new bike. But guess what...I friggin' love the XR, it truly is a beast.

[@prestigeworld-wide8292]

Dude 02 xr650l here. Same.....lol. lowered it for my height, added an xr400 oil cooler, risers, acerbis super moto kit, uncorked, Dave's mod, .7 gallon (4.7 for the super critical momma's boys) clark tank, led everything. Last thing is the gel battery under the seat and the XR-R left plastic. I have been everywhere I'd go on a much smaller and lighter bike.

[@prestigeworld-wide8292]

Been loving these cheap shinko 705 and 805 tires. 168/set getting 7k on the backs and 12 on the fronts.

[@paulg9314]

Mine's an enhanced-suspension DR named the Gravel Truck, because the DR reminds me in so many ways of the now-retired RAAF Caribou workhorse. Both machines make the same low growling sound when they're concentrating, never complain about their operator, and they just keep pulling like a tractor. Love my DR and still smiling.

[@MrCannonls]

After modding a drz 400 then getting a 790R (after 5,000 worry-free miles, in the end it’s just too heavy), I bought a Husqvarna 701 and put IMS 2.5 gallon tanks on (for total capacity of 5.9) and a seat concepts seat, this is by far the best adventure bike I’ve been on. Love it.

[@DavyRo]

That sounds like a Unicorn to me👍

[@bseidem5112]

Reliability?

[@fightingcock8096]

The best time and most fun I ever had riding was on a 86 Honda fatcat , always had a big smile every time I got on it 😏🤘🏼

[@ramiretz]

love my CRF450L .... all perfect so far only thing is you need another seat for long distances (seat concepts or other) because the seat is the same as the R have and yes the oil change interval with 1000km its maybe for some people a reason but to be honest the oilchange is so quick to do, use the drainbolt or use an oil extractor, honda built it in such a way that all the oil can be sucked off through the oil filler neck, easy clean and you get all oil out in no time, 5minutes and its done

[@orical2832]

Recently bought a 2019 Honda CRF250L - absolutely love it. It will be a great platform for a great little adventure bike with a few upgrades. Highly recommend.

[@nor_cal_trailrides9990]

I bought a DRZ400s brand new in 2008. Still have it today. Mostly stock with Dunlop 606's and the 3x3 mod. I've put more miles on this bike than all my others put together. It's heavy and all but it's still a super fun bike that never breaks

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Great bikes, Kyle. Over the years I've had the SM, E and the S model. Loved all of them, not a single issue in countless miles.

[@rawrasaurus0rex]

Slight correction, the 390 adventure does have a cush hub. Figured that out when swapping tires on mine!

[@adamho8059]

How are you liking it?

[@TheIdlesurfer]

I am very pleased with my 2016 Husqvarna 701. It's been from the Arctic Circle down to the South of Spain on trails, tracks and fire roads. But I've spent some money on it. Nomad rally fairing, Seat Concepts seat and Outbackmotortek pannier frames. The bike has done 600 km in a day on motorway is pissing down rain and done some moderately technical trails on 50 50 tyres. I am pretty mediocre as an off road rider. This bike makes me look better than I am. For me, not blessed with natural talent, the 70bhp can get a bit too lively in the squirmy stuff but I love it on the road, and it is an urban missile. It does everything either well, pretty well or adequately. Adequate for highway miles, mutts nuts on 50 50 tyres for tarmac tear arsing about and close to perfect for easier trails. 2017 model has more zip to the engine.

[@radtoyz]

Being in my mid 40s and having zero off road experience, I chose a WR250R due to its reliability, low weight and enough power for a trail newbie like me. Have only just run it in and am starting to modify it with a few bits, including a screen and a Safari tank. Planning to use it for day trips on gravel and forest roads plus some light trail riding, and so far I'm very happy with it.

[@atlas_au]

Hey Pete - Riding With Tom's channel has loads of content on that bike. How's it feel on the highway loaded up?

[@sheepdog819]

I'm approaching 40 and have zero off road experience. This is the bike I've been eyeballing for a long time. I wish the 450L had the same matainance schedule excuse I know ill end up desiring a bit more oomph.

[@radtoyz]

@@atlas_au haven't ridden it loaded up as I have only just done the run-in. But it isn't exactly enjoyable on extended road rides due to wind pressure and the excutiatingly bad stock seat.

[@radtoyz]

@@sheepdog819 Power isn't really an issue unless you load it up with gear and do a lot of road riding. Off road it has enough power to get an inexperienced rider like me into trouble.

[@dvandamme00]

@@sheepdog819 there should be club for 40 year olds with wr250s.. the powers fine provided you get a good handle on the clutch. more power in the dirt just means you can be lazy. a 250 on a nasty hill climb means you are really paying attention and having a blast....

[@Edwordless]

I’ve got the XR650L and it’s fun, but has it’s limitations. It’s too light on the freeway for much long distance traveling, and too heavy for very technical trails off road. That being said, it’s reliable with lots of available modifications, and is pretty easy to work on. Great suspension travel and super easy to ride!

[@terrywest5735]

I previously owned a XR650L and sold it for a new Yamaha T7. After putting 20k miles on it I sold it and got another XR650L. The T7 was far superior to the XR on the highway, but the XR is better everywhere else, in my opinion. Thanks for all your hard work on the videos they're very informative and mostly hilarious. Keep em comin ya wanker!

[@DaveHarper]

Same decision for me. As much as I want something new and better, I've yet to find anything that quite matches the DR650 when you look at cost, maintenance, reliability and just fun and easy to ride. I do agree about the XR650R. I had one, and had that been dual sported with electric start, it would have ruled.

[@robmontgomery5030]

Another great video post! Thanks for all the great work. I too have been on a quest for the perfect light weight dual sport adventure bike. I sold my Honda XR 650L last year because it just was not cutting it for me. After months of research and deliberation I bought a 2020 KTM 690 enduro r. I’ve done a bunch of minor mods including a 1.5 gal auxiliary fuel tank. I have a few hiccups already including the kickstand switch and the fan thermal switch going out on me. On balance, a fair amount of after market work and a couple of parts failures I have to say that I love this bike as my light weight adventure bike. It handles like a big dirt bike off road and cruises all day long down the highway at 65 mph. I carry about 60 lbs of luggage on the bike and it still handles extremely well off-road in the technical stuff. It is not for everyone, but for me it is that magic unicorn perfect adventure bike. Cheers.

[@7x779]

65 miles per hour is a little slow from my area. How does it handle 75 to 85 on the highway? By the way I've had a couple XR650L , My main complaint was No 6 speed transmission, And 1st gear was ridiculously low with a huge gap to 2nd.

[@THE_SNAPP]

Having a blast on my 2018 g310gs i bought new in '18. Almost no complaints for my purposes.

[@TheLaboy9999]

Love you! Dr650 baby , sleeping next to mine on the Oregon coast right now

[@thevtadventure1062]

Loved my WR450F thing was a beast and very reliable. Looking to get another one in the near future.

[@wipperwil]

Great summary: concise, simple, informative, good video snips, appreciable conclusion.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Cheers, it's always a bit of a guess between too much detail and keeping it simple. 😊

[@ebisse18]

I have a CRF250Rally. The suspension is too soft for the gnarly tracks I go to so I changed them and it is now perfect. I’m 183cm in height so the seat height works for me. It’s ok on roads, a great commuter, and goes really everywhere. A Honda so reliable as can be. Perfect for me and my Alpine adventures.

[@monocogenit1]

Love my xr650l. I installed a cr250 front end on it and a oil cooler. Probably the most capable off-road in its class of older Japanese 650s. And pretty cheap and easy to maintain.

[@spacefrog2025]

I think that's the best answer. Not to heavy not to expensive and one of the most reliable bikes of all time 👍

[@andrewcannon587]

the frame size is large and the seat height is kinda high

[@patterrana1581]

I'll help explain the reason I bought a honda crf250l. I wanted a small zippy light wieght bike, (compared to my 750lb cruiser) capable of speeds over 60mph, and if I come across a dirt road I dont have to turn around and find another way. Kept looking for a used DR650. One of two options, either 1990ish severely beat and worn for $3,000, or 2000ish for $3,000-$4,000. Bought my honda crf250l for $4600 on sale. The new DR650 was $7,800! And the 400z was too tall and also a good amount more. No jumps, no washboard fire roads, no crazy mountain climbs, just something to throw a leg over on a warm 70 degree day when there's salt all over the road in upstate NY.

[@curiousgeorgeadv]

I just got a SWM Superdual-X and I love it. A few mods to the exhaust and I will have an extra 2 inches of ground clearance and cut weight by 14lbs

[@nyedavis922]

The wr250r is the best lightweight adventure bike no doubt about it. Bulletproof reliable engine, lightweight, excellent suspension, lots of mods to make it adventure ready with realitive ease - comfort seat, windscreen and 18L ims tank and you're good to go more or less. Highest milage wr I've seen had 87000 miles (not km) on it, and had never needed the valves shimming. Oh and not to mention they have the ease of modern FI so there's need to piss about with your carb when you need to ride over a small hill

[@MaynardNinja]

Interesting...

[@williamgiangerusoiv1402]

I've had an 03 XR650R for about five years now. I've had factory connection tweak my suspension, added a cam, exhaust, rekluse, and Lectron carb. I can ride single track, do massive hillclimbs, ride motocross, go on adventure rides, sit on the highway at 90mph for hours. There's not much I haven't done with this bike. And your 100% right, who ever is holding back a redesign on this bike needs to be admitted to a psychiatric ward. Yamaha's jaws would drop along with their sales on the t7 tenere....which i do like....but not as much as a fuel injected, push button, street legal Xr650r!

[@Africatwin93]

Yes hang on to it. I will never sell mine. Mine is dualsported and I weighed it last week. With 15 liters in the 24 liter Acerbis tank, street legal it weighs 148 kgs. They will not make a new version, but I wish. Who caresif they don't we have a BRP . I will be looking for another one, just to have the spares. But then again what does break on it.? Nothing g really.

[@williamgiangerusoiv1402]

@@Africatwin93 thats awesome man! Mine is full set up for gncc style riding but is also street legal. I have a set of supermoto wheels I've been thinking about putting back on for a bit. So much fun to rip the streets on the brp!

[@SergiosKolios]

Great Bikes, I own an adventurised one, put a Lectron on as well and love it to bits! :) However they are as well expensive on maintenance, need to replace my clutch basket now, which has a cush drive concoction (i.e. bound to need replacement again in the future), cost is 300-700 euro for the basket in EU. Also oil change intervals can be annoying, at least it's easy to change oil and filter.

[@williamgiangerusoiv1402]

@@SergiosKolios is she tough to start when cold with the Lectron? Mine is. And I'm not sure why your clutch basket is going bad. I had 3000 hard miles on mine before I put the rekluse in and the basket was perfect. Zero notching on the fingers. And the rekluse actually comes with these sweet little guides that go over the fingers so the basket isn't actually even being touched by the plates!

[@Africatwin93]

@@williamgiangerusoiv1402 I have had mine. Ow for 23.000 km. Clutch basket ok. It might be that we don't hammer them on tar, we use tar as transport sections between dirt. We have a lot of that here fortunately. Yes it needs TLC but it can take some abuse incredible. I shimend my susspension to tye Bornyak desert racing spec and its absolutely epic.

[@Monjar3]

I have a recluse clutch cover on my 450L for extra oil capacity and I ride the hell out my 450L from black diamond single track on the weekends to riding everyday to work. I change the oil every 1000 to 1200 miles and it always looks good. Valves haven't moved at all in 4600 miles. Others are reporting 20000 miles and valves still in spec. Full metal sub frame makes this even more the perfect lightweight adventure bike. Put a vortex ecu and full exhaust and this bike is a monster. I have a vortex and stock exhaust. I can roll on wheelie in second gear sitting on the tank with no clutch. Third I can pop it up by compressing the suspension and blipping the throttle again with no clutch. It will roll on wheelie in third with a fmf exhaust and 450x header. Suspension is great. This bike cruises at 70 mph comfortably. I love this bike so much I'm sitting in my garage drinking beer just to be close to her while I watch dirt bike vids on KZbin. Still want a te300i for double black diamond single track though. While this isn't the unicorn bike straight from the factory, with some mods it just might be it.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

It would be great to see a Rally version too, I'm surprised they did the 250 and not the 450....

[@Monjar3]

@@crosstrainingadventure They make a rally kit for it.

[@chAngE-channel]

I'm riding a crf250! It ’s a great motorcycle.

[@davebehrens9794]

2011 DR650 here and the beast is still going strong. Love its center of gravity! For me the must mods were: - SUSPENSION! (heavier springs on both ends, re-valved, cartridge emulators) - Bash plate and Hand-guards - TIRES!! - 14pt front sprocket Worthwhile mods: - Air-box/re-jet carb, - Magnetic drain plug/oil filter ring, - Muffler - Re-covered/padded seat - 5.2 gal fuel tank/fuel filter - handlebars/extensions - locktite NSU - remove engine cutoff switches - Giant Loop Mojave bags So more than $1000 needed in mods/add-ons but the bike is now reliable/predictable off road machine!

[@WesleyRobb]

Nice video, I have a 2008 WR450f with a Cush drive, Slipper Clutch and a 12 litre tank. The bike has over 18000km on it. The Cush drive + slipper clutch make the bike far less snatchy on the road and off-road performance is not compromised too much. The non-existent rear sub-frame and 5-speed gearbox are the biggest shortcomings IMO but it is light and goes almost anywhere.

[@James.._]

Hi Wesley, I'm thinking of buying a WR459F for shortish adventures, how do you pack the rear end with no subframe? Pack light and strap it to back of seat? Cheers.

[@unclejohn5012]

Got a crf250l. Honestly its a underrated bike for what it is. The soft suspension is good for hoping logs and small jumps and once you get used to it its okay. Decent amount of mods available and proven to be one of the most reliable engines out there. My only complaints is its power is a little low but that means it gets awesome fuel range ( 27.2km a liter) and the fact the biggest tank i can get for it is 13.5L. Power can be fixed by just swapping a CBR300 crank and piston in which bumps compression and keeps the reliability.

[@farmoboy83]

I bet honda is gona put the new 350cc from forza and sh on this bike...maybe 33hp stock which is very good

[@wobblysauce]

Yep, the suspension is up to the rider.

[@_Bryant.R]

I love my XR650L. It's never perfect, but it's always fun.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I wish we still had them here in Australia, for some reason Honda canned them back around 2008. 😢

[@danielc5205]

I have a 2019 WR 450F. It's a good, but expensive, play bike for off-road riding. Since I only ride off-road during daylight hours, the YZ 450FX would of been a better choice for me over the WR. But, the WR 450F's high maintenance YZ 450F based engine would probably wear out too quickly if it's being used as a street bike. Plus, with it's 600 mile oil changes, you'll be changing it's oil ever three days. If Yamaha would just make a WR 450R, they'd probably fly off the showroom floors.

[@jnavonoD]

I'm a fan of the 450F because of it's road-going capabilities. Use mine to drive to the dirt, then drive home after (usually with smashed indicators, missing numberplate, that sort of thing).

[@davelambardo6464]

If Yamaha built a street legal 450 and sell it for less than 9 grand I would pre order one tommarrow. Actually if honda would build the 650r with electric start I would get it street legal some how!

[@thevtadventure1062]

You can convert them to be street legal pretty easily. Made mine into a supermoto. But hell for the price of a new WR450F you can just get a Tenere 700 a lot heavier but more road capable.

[@jnavonoD]

@@thevtadventure1062 Our WR250 and 450F's here in New Zealand and over in Aus are road legal out the box. And don't have any of that stupid restricted stuff on them either🤙

[@thevtadventure1062]

Donovan Jackson yeah you guys are lucky!! I’m jealous!!

[@richbrett7268]

Great review , journalist approach not pushed with overwhelming personal opinion, comprehensive research backed up with specifications providing thorough information.. great.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Thanks Rich, it really is just a big opinion piece but I tried to be objective enough that gives a broad overview for anyone looking at bikes that meet those criteria.

[@KeepItSimpleSailor]

Had a DR650 for a good few years. Stock other than bar risers, barkbusters, bashplate, sprocket gearing and some pannier racks for a throw over soft pannier. Loved it, rode it heaps, it did surprisingly well in a whole bunch of conditions ranging from the forest of southern NSW to FNQ … and might get another and give it all the good mods.

[@willrenick2750]

I love my 2020 XT 250 put new springs front and rear pipe airflow it runs really well very happy with the bike suspension change made the bike so much better

[@williamlightfoot5425]

I'm liking the DR 650 as well it seems like a practical bike.

[@smokemagnet]

Great video! Great soundtrack :)

[@lordllewellynofdarkdelight2613]

I love your video format. This was entertaining and informative.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Thanks Llewie... we are trying to be a bit different to most channels by working in a bit of humour but also not being sponsored or influenced by manufacturers so we can stay 100% objective and critical. 😊

[@aaronl4036]

Hey Barry, great vid. I have an older, 2007, KLX 250s. I have adapted it for ADV with a focus on hard tracks/singletrack. The secret sauce for these bikes is to add a Bill Blue 351 big bore kit, Mikuni pumper carb, and larger exhaust/head pipe. It really improves the power to around what a stock DRZ makes but with better throttle response, better gearbox and way better offroad handling. All in it, it is still very cheap and reliable. I also put a 15T countershaft srprocket on for better road riding. Cheers from Colorado, USA :)

[@crosstrainingadventure]

nice, a 351 kit! never heard of that before. i did have a friend who bored out his TTR250 to a 320 which made a fair difference.

[@danhetherington1678]

@@crosstrainingadventure Another vote for the 07' KLX250/300. Born from old school enduro pedigree, I also have set mine up for ADV & Enduro. Agree they need the big bore, I went with the OEM 300cc kit. Open up the airbox, full FMF header/exhaust, Mikuni pumper carb, Seat Concepts seat, Acerbis 14L tank and respring/revalve the suspension (shock is ok stock, but the forks are a must-do). Capable of competitive hard enduro one weekend, reinstall blinkers, licence plate and rear rack, 1000k camping trip the next. Everything a DRZ wishes it could be. Lighter, better suspension and handling, 6 speed wide ratio gearbox, comparable power (after mods), and more than capable highway cruising. A true do-it-all, no fuss, reliable bike. If I didn't have my KLX, I'd need two bikes.

[@jsv812]

My two additional criteria in this category are a high-output stator/alternator (WRR = 350 Watts) for electronics and heated gear, and a strong rear subframe (implied in your comments but not on your initial list) to hold at least 90 pounds of racks and gear (although I tend to go rackless with Giant Loop or Mosko Moto). Cheers!

[@rayrayray4116]

Yamaha WR250R. Ride it for everything. Ice tires for ice riding, 17 inch SuperMoto wheels for track days, in the o the woods with knobbies ( 1 tooth down on front sprocket ) It just keeps going. 24k mile valve adjustment Just would like a larger fuel tank Oh and Enduro studs for winter trail riding Perfect bike for me

[@drzrider3440]

Massive DR\DRZ fan. Have just broke the 40,000 mile mark on my 2011 DRZ400. big tank, mosko-moto set up, big pegs, bigger springs front and rear, nice seat, Scotts damper, full yosh exhaust and 39mm FCR, full LED light set up and more. Running 15/42 gears makes it not so busy at speeds. 90 mph all day long if you feel the need. I take it on 2000+ mile trips. With highway speed limits of 80 MPH, I still pass people with 80lbs of gear on board. DRZ is hard to beat when it comes to bang for your buck. And yes, I sais 40,000 miles, not kilometers. And zero issues so far. Runs better than new, doesnt burn a drop of oil.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Cool! So not even a stator replacement? There are very few known issues with the bike but some long term comments have said the stator can burn out quicker than other bikes, about 20,000km on average. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6GbYZJop7iiZpo

[@drzrider3440]

@@crosstrainingadventure negative on the stator. Its usually not the stator that gives out, its the plug on the stator that gives out. Yep. That happened around 30,000 miles. Just cut the plugs off and soldered them together. Fixed the issue. I run at times 4 offroad lights and heated grips. And phone charging. Yep, looking back over the 40,000 miles thats the only real issue I had. But free to fix it. I tell all my DRZ400 buddies to do the free power mod...its the same thing. Jut cut and solder together. Cause eventually it will happen. But yeah, thats the only issue I have had. Runs better than new. Yes I plan on tearing it down this winter. But will be at about 45,000 to 50,000 by that time. All I can say is change oil often. I have only gone over 1000 miles on oil changes if i was on a 1000+ mile ride. Done a few of over 2000+ mile ride on it. About to start my ow. Channel on here. I do have a few cheaply made videos, but getting a computer built right now specially built to edit videos. Then ill be on here with my own adv/dual sport videos.

[@edmuggles]

had my Dr650 for over 10 years and going strong :P true work horse :P

[@crosstrainingadventure]

amen

[@thehighwaychild]

I have a 2005 KTM 640 ADV that I picked up a few years ago in mint condition. I opted for second hand rather than new since there was really nothing on the market that ticked the boxes. If I had a spare $19k I’d get the Husky 701LR. Pretty much the perfect bike for this category imo. The 640 is awesome, albeit a bit vibey but I tend to do mainly dirt so I don’t notice.

[@RobertBrown-zi6sv]

I have been riding a TE511 off road for the last few years and have added a SWM Superdual X to the garage a few weeks ago. Basically I wanted more range and less oil changes. Still working it out but overall, I am happy with it.

[@steveh545]

too funny. was doing a search on this exact topic all weekend. the variance is service intervals is crazy. The more money you spend, the more often you have to change the oil. Great (timely) vid!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Maybe some guys like changing engine oil, but I suspect most of us get annoyed with short intervals. I used to stretch the old FE570 out to 2000km but that was still too often.

[@taxmandj]

I can speak for the CRF450L. The seat and tank are easy to solve with aftermarket, you just have to spend more money on an already expensive bike, but you get a pretty good dirt travel bike. For me the stock seat is not bad at all. Oil changes I believe can be extended to 2000km or even more. Every 1000km is an extremely conservative recommendation from Honda. The official quantity is 1150ml but it easily takes 1250ml

[@roylefamily]

I change mine at 2000 and the oil comes out looking the same as it went in.

[@allenhuling598]

Had a gut feeling that that's where you were headed...good onya! I was unsure looking between the t7 and the DR, but knew that whatever I decided it was going to be my ride for a long time, and I did want fuel injection and liquid cooling. Unbeknownst to me, my wife was actually listening to my ramblings, took notes, and with my son's help got in on the first order of t7s to the US. 7 months later a huge surprise was sitting in my garage after work one evening, with them having made the decision for me! Awesome!! Just finished the 1000 mile break-in two days ago, and tho I know it is much heavier than many want to go, I am very happy with my new 'horse in the stable!' :-)

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Wow Allen, that's some family you have there. 😍

[@allenhuling598]

@@crosstrainingadventure Agreed....I am blessed! :-)

[@MidCoastAdventures]

Gotta love the DR650. Got mine fully farkled and WOW, what a machine! Sure, a bit heavy but damn it loves to get out and explore. Great vid by the way 😎👍

[@johnpye134]

Your bike looks cool i love my dr650

[@davidbaker9730]

Good to see you back. DR is to die for. You can keep all the Eurotrash stuff. Amazing how some bikes remain classic despite the relentless march of time. I have a few bikes but the DR remains my favourite. Has all your recommended mods plus a few. Tractable, fairly nimble, carries the load, good for 110km/hr all day every day. Just want to get out of Melbourne lockdown to enjoy the ride.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Great to hear, David. And great to see that the DR650 is still made in Japan when manufacturers like KTM are now making most of their adventure bikes in China.

[@artfulalias3984]

Its good to see your return to adventure riding. Looking forward to the videos.

[@gasengineguy]

I knew you'd take another DR. Just rolled over 10k on my 2015 model. Nothing but routine maintenance and the normal known upgrades, an overall workhorse that's ok at everything.

[@gaittr]

Awesome and very informative video. I own a DRZ400S and love it

[@gavinbritt1349]

I just got a 2001 XR400R, super fun good power and not too heavy on the technical trails

[@allanmacbadger5692]

The most obvious exclusion from the list is the Royal Enfield Himalayan BS6 which is probably the best cost option available, now has much better proven reliability, simple design and easy to repair, plus good rear hard panniers and front soft panniers / fuel containers, ridden around the world by several notable people with very very few issues - so what if its a few kg over the limit, it comes with several extras not on other bikes which sort of offsets the weight issue. Mind you its probably not suitable for those riders who want to go 'touring' at 100MPH.

[@papatorr3669]

It looks like they're only considering bikes that fly through the air in this video, which the Himalayan does not

[@cocoscabana]

Its almost 500lbs its not a lightweight

[@zardportugal]

AJP, for sure. No major issues to fear and great value.

[@MarkDaleADV]

I applaud your patriotism, however, I own an AJP(not a 7), and while I agree the PR7 is a great effort on the part of a small manufacturer, the aftermarket support falls well short of what the modern consumer expects, in my experience. By the way, were all waiting for the PR6, when's it coming? (I favour a 300-500cc single in the perfect bike!)

[@xpayleskill]

@@MarkDaleADV it seems to depend of the importer, I live in France, and the aftermarket support is really awesome, even if they don't sell many of them. Obviously we are closer from Portugal it might help for the part availability

[@gillesgenete9598]

I just test rode an AJP PR7. Interesting bike, has the trail/dual sport spirit, good looking ... BUT after an in depth comparison with the Husqvarna 701 Enduro, I ordered the Husky. The AJP is cheaper in its 48hp version, but with the 60hp kit it is more expensive than the Husky, and I'm not sure the Samsung A6 tablet is worth that difference when you think of drive modes and ABS, TC of the 701. Furthermore, due to pandemic , delivery delays can't be predicted by the AJP factory, waiting for the engines coming from China ( not anymore from Italy), suposedly next batch in April. Weight wise the PR7 is 148kg unfuelled/165kg ready to go, the 701 is 147kg unfuelled/160kg ready to go, none of those 2 really light. Honda crf450l is much lighter but wandering about long highway drive. DR650 difficult to find a good used one in Europe and as heavy as those 2 AJP PR7 and Husky 701 Enduro.

[@zardportugal]

@@gillesgenete9598 Well done. The 701 is a top machine.

[@gillesgenete9598]

@@zardportugal with a grant less in price, say same price than a Tenere T700, I would have chosen the PR7.

[@gregoryyates1929]

Just got back into riding in May this year after a 11yr break. My wife bought me a 2017 CRF 250L for my 38th and I am loving it. Aside from the soft suspension which finds its stops a little too easily, it really is an enjoyable ride. A couple of weekends back it got me through a 500km ride through Bellthorpe and Conondale national parks, out to Noosa, up the beach in the Cooloola national park to Rainbow Beach and back.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Great little bikes, I did ride one briefly over in Canada and now which I'd gone exploring a lot more on it.

[@erikeggenbakstad]

Hiya! You are in my opinion spot on when it comes to a light weight adventure bike. If I had a love for my XR650R I would most likely gone for a DR650. Proven design, all mods are figured out and you still (?) can get them pretty cheap. So many bikes that got discontinued that never should.. What a pity! Cheers from Norway...

[@slavomir8045]

The SWM enduro models are produced in old factory Husqvarna in Italy . We can see that SWM Superdual is also Husqvarna :-)

[@JJMLJ]

Awesome video yet again! Congrats on the purchase! I just got an XT250 to share with my wife. So far it's been a blast around town.... I'm a little scared to take it off road to be honest :-)

[@crosstrainingadventure]

C'mon John, I can see you entering The Corduroy and easily getting on to the podium with that little beast!

[@billmastrippolito7132]

I'm 60 yrs old and recently bought an XT250, 90% of my riding is off road, that's what I bought it for (to have fun). I'm sure you'll be pleasantly surprised at how good it is off road, even the tougher steeper inclines. The low seat height and relatively low weight are huge bonuses in my opinion.

[@tristansavery5023]

I ended up just getting my hands on the water cooled XR650R, spent the extra coin on a top end rebuild and suspension. I love my pig. Too much fun.

[@larsgoranforsberg4675]

Well, I bought one too (XR650R) and with a 17 litres tank I'm also very happy.

[@catmate8358]

Very well put together video, very informative. Exactly the info I was looking for all in one place. Thank you.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Glad it was helpful!

[@catmate8358]

@@crosstrainingadventure Well, I've found it helpful. I went for a trip to the Sahara in 2009 on a Yamaha XT600 and found it very good but somewhat heavy. Now I am getting nostalgic (read: old), and I'd like to find something similar but 30kg lighter. Apparently there's no such thing. Honda CRF300 Rally is 153kg wet weight compared to Yamaha's 170kg - but the Yamaha has 45hp and the Honda only 27. There are performance dirt bikes that are way lighter but apparently it is not possible to make a lightweight bike that's good for long distance trips. Sigh...

[@crosstrainingadventure]

It's a real problem. I keep hoping a manufacturer will do an adventure version of their 450 or 500 enduro models. Detune it, beef up certain engine parts for reliability, big oil capacity, comfy seat, windscreen, cush drive hub etc. Honda kind of started this with the CRF450L but they only half did the job.

[@catmate8358]

@@crosstrainingadventure Exactly how I see it and I believe many other riders. Not everyone needs extreme off road capabilities. Many people would simply ride dirt roads but not on a 200kg bike that you can't lift when you drop it. CRF300 is just not powerful enough in my mind. I think one needs around 40hp in order to keep up with the traffic on asphalt roads and be able to cover distances at 120km/h. Anyway thanks for your videos and happy riding!

[@dmelson7502]

Back to a bush pig. I put 18,000 miles on a DRZ400, basically an anvil with wheels.

[@GunFunZS]

Would you buy one again?

[@jnavonoD]

Lovely description haha

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

D Melson Would you use it for a round the world trip starting with a year going through every country in south and Central America?

[@dmelson7502]

@@Rick_Sanchez_C137_ reliability wise? Yes. Comfort and performance wise, perhaps no.

[@dmelson7502]

@@GunFunZS I ride an exe 350 for a dirt scooter now. I don't know if I'd buy another one but I kind of wish I hadn't have sold the one I had. It would have been a great backup/buddy bike.

[@joaodopulo5068]

DRZ all the way. Way lighter than her 650 sister and not much less power. Simply a grrrrreat bike.

[@omicrondec]

Wish it had a 6th gear....

[@alcoagoodtimesinc.66]

I ride a 2019 SWM Superdual X, have about 4000 miles. Rode the Smoky Mountain 500, Blue Ridge Parkway both up and down, Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route, and multiple one rides in the mountains. Bike has been very reliable, good thru 18inch deep water crossings, performs well, starts well, Fuel tank capacity is great, oil capacity mileage between changes is good, suspension works well, engine guards work well (I tested the engine guards many times), Some of the mods I made were: one tooth lower on countershaft sprocket, Dunlop 606 tires, i replaced the fog lights with more powerful LEDs as the stock headlight is weak, Oxford Heated grips, Roc handlebar risers. Only issues I had were: you have to stop to turn ABS off, stock handguards are for street use not strong enough for off road, with size 15 boot i kept accidently hitting the kickstand switch when standing up in off road sections. I ended up by passing the kickstand switch

[@jrfw96]

Just bought a drz400e, absolutely love it. Used to riding sport bikes so its a nice change

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Great bikes, I've had all three models and was tempted again but decided on the grunt of the DR650 instead. I'd love to see a DRZ500 though...

[@spingel88]

I don't have any of these bikes, but I have the predecessor to one of them. My 1986 XL600R is a monster. It has a ton of engine work and never had any issues at all. Air cooling hasn't been an issue with it, even in some of our 95-100 degree GA summers. The only thing that is thoroughly in need of addressing is the old, saggy suspension. To quote the abysmal Todd Howard, "it just works."

[@LaneHadway127]

Really enjoying my CRF450L. Although haven't spent much time off road...yet.

[@zspence77]

I have a 2018 klr650 and love it. It goes where you point it and will surely suprise you with what it can do...

[@martynjames5963]

I have a KTM530. It's amazing. I am 58 and have never had so much fun in 45 biking years.

[@peterperkins270]

,me too loving that bike

[@rainforestridersau7865]

CRF450L owner experience, this bike has potential and is very under rated >Honda's 1000km oil change is over kill if your riding faster trails or roads the oil doesn't darken that much, i have safely pushed it a bit beyond 2000kms while monitoring it daily, > it runs very smooth at road speed for dirt bike despite no crush drive ?? any case it vibrates less than other bikes i have owned = XR650R XR400R > very easy to make this bike closer in weight to a WR450F its standard muffler is a whopping 6.7KG and there is still heaps of other stuff you can pull off it if that's your goal

[@davec2664]

I have a crf450 l as well..great bike .. I had dramas with my subframe breaking. I repaired it and strengthened it .. Honda less than helpful.. only 2000 K on it when it snapped .. but with vortex Yoshi pipe ..20 litre tank and soft luggage it's a excellent light adv bike .. oil changes can be stretched out and no ill affects .. a few KZbin vids of guys doing the whole oil test thing .. happy riding mate

[@souhailshamaissem7564]

Again I agree with you. In my days back in the seventies and eighties most adventure bikes were small capacity between 175cc to 460 or 500cc like the Yamaha xt500 and the Honda xl500 and they were nice and light

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Yep same. I don't understand how modern bikes are so damn heavy.

[@jerryjb]

I bought my Dr650 two and a half years ago, largely thanks to your videos praising it's adaptability and versatility. It was my first off road motorcycle and it has taken me all over the US. Now I've also got a T7. I'll never sell the Dr though because it seems like most guys always end up buying another haha

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Exactly, Jared. i've eventually regretted every time I've sold the previous three DR650s so this one has to be a keeper.

[@ironhorserider1066]

Got 72000 km on my DR in 4 years.it’s my first bike.dropped it and dropped it and again. Was looking to replaced it with a 701 until I got to chat with owners that are saying don’t do it. I don’t drive the car anymore,that’s my commuter and dirt rand gravel rider. I love bear creek in Kelowna. Super reliable Good power after uncorked Will Cary what ever I need to. Good in the highway It will be very hard to replace the DR.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

With the AJP PR7 , go onto there fb Australian page owners will give you all the details . They also use the SWM RS 650 SWM 650 Superdual engine . ( that comes from the old TE 630 . Superdual & RS 650 owners are up to around 40-50,000 kms with most with small issues ( most have been fixed at factory new ) I have a 2017 model Superdual only managed to put 15,000kms on so far , with only one electrical issue , but I have FLOGGED the crap 💩 out of it on snotty trails , desert, long road miles and normal dirt roads it’s been fantastic. Will KILL a DR 650 any day , six sped fuel Injection, large oil capacity and Cush drive ( the perfect) almost light weight ADV / Dual sport bike .

[@mrbbully3769]

Dr650 all the way. Leatherman, rock(instead of a hammer) and a big adjustable spanner takes care of most of the rarely required repairs that I've had to do. Duel rim locks for high speed balance on the road, then you dont even do puncture repairs till you're near a shop because the tyre wont come off the rim. Once you do the seat, suspension, exhaust, carb and optional tank for long distance it will shit all over anything on offer and covers the highway, full on bush bashing and getting to work and back. Get a shit batch of fuel, drain it and clean the carb fuel bowl refill and keep going, no unforgiving blocked fuel injectors or pumps.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I agree, if you like the old school style it's hard to go past the DR650... especially once you do those mods.

[@3fff]

Excellent review... Thank you 🌹

[@mikew5988]

I've been on my xr650l since 05 and have not been easy on it either. Reliable and a blast. Even though I tip toe on the beast it's hard to beat. Love love love!

[@brownies-midlifeadventure5333]

Great review... amd good choice, I loved my DR when I had it, dam thing was as reliable as a tractor 😎👍

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Just out for a ride yesterday, I LOVE how it just tractors around everywhere and you don't need to rev it!

[@DeadDaem0n]

New EFI KLX250 It's good as cheap and extreme reliable 250 for touring. I went on such trip from Moscow to the Kola Peninsula (just up the map for the Arctic Circle). Also you can simple deristrict for nothing just done MCM (change of camshaft angles usning only your engine parts). P.S. Here it is necessary to clarify the moment - Kawasaki developed this engine for higher revs and(or) cubic capacity (old sport klx250, new ninja250sl and all klx300). On new KLX250, engine could not spin up to its native revs and develop the required dynamic pressure in the combustion chamber (and therefore torque with power). This makes a funny situation - the dinographs of the new stock KLX250 and "offroad only" KLX300 are exactly the same until the transition to the red zone at 250 (EFI leaning fuel). Only this solution gives "magic" 19 horses on the rear wheel, which is probably necessary for certification in a number of countries. To compensate, you can change the angle of the camshafts to increase the dynamic pressure under the same peak values as at higher revs that are not available. At the same time, it is impossible to obtain pressure that can damage the motor - EFI simply will not allow the motor to spin up to such speed. MCM does this by reposition camshaft gears and chain, to angles approximately same ​​that used on street "unristricted epoh" 250 made for low rpm. It's funny, but the native intake and exhaust system does not limit the engine with a stock piston, contrary to the general opinion. They are made literally for the required bandwidth.

[@opticmoose]

Problem is will Australia even get the EFI klx250? I would buy one tomorrow as price, mods, seat height etc are great, but in Australia you get the klx250s with carbies. I'm lazy and want less maintenance so when the crf250l and wr250r are right there I cannot get the carbie klx.

[@BurningFeetAdventures]

What about the Suzuki RMX 450 Z? I own a 2010 RMX450 and a 2020 Tenere 700. Both bikes are great. The RMX has heaps of power, fuel injection, kickstarter and eStarter, spot on suspension but is missing fuel capacity (stock is 6.1l > IMS aftermarket tank is 9.6l). Oil capacity is 1.2 l and you can go 2000km befor changing oil and 4000 befor changing the oil filter...

[@nigelmills7795]

many people. Great great vid, Iove the footage and insight

[@jeremyslade7839]

Still looking for that Unicorn! Sorry, a thumper is not it! A 21"/18" Twin, with 400~700CC range. Under 400lbs, Under 10k USD. Always on the horizon, KTM 490 ADV, Honda Baby AT, Kawi KLX 700, ??? The hunt continues....Great round up

[@pauloconnor7951]

A thumper is not it ?. 2T ?

[@grzegorzgrotkowski6575]

Yamaha T700. Dry weight under 400lbs

[@MileMunchinAdventures]

Own the DRZ400 and use it regularly for big adventure rides. Biggest was a 21 day, 7000+km, I love the fact that fully loaded I can still lift it when I drop it. And it does get dropped where I take it, I love to explore which means I venture up some very steep and rough tracks. Only issue for me is the highway travel. I try to avoid it by taking the back roads. Would love it to have a 6th gear. The mods I’ve made have made it a great lightweight adventure bike.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Damn, 21 days. Best I've managed is 8 days and 2300 km. I have done a few tough dirt rides on the DR650 (when my dirt bike wasn't available) and it's a handful, that's definitely where the DRZ shines.

[@MileMunchinAdventures]

@@crosstrainingadventure thank god for the airhawk, made the bitumen sections more bearable. But most the time I rode standing up on the rougher tracks, only averaged about 300kms a day, it was an awesome trip.

[@M7hero]

like this video very much will be looking forward for 2021 new bikes comparison

[@michiganmoto7687]

You can do a revised list now as the WR250R is no longer available and both the Kawi and Honda’s have bumped up to the 300 class from their previous 250’s.

[@mattoliver7734]

Bought a brand new DR650 about 2 months ago. Loving it - only issue I've had so far is the dealership are c***s!

[@billybunter3753]

Name and shame!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Bummer, Matt. I've been so lucky to mainly know dealers who are passionate about the sport and bend over backwards to support their customers. But I hear plenty of horror stories out there...

[@mattoliver7734]

@@billybunter3753 Sydney City Motorcycles (Lane Cove). Sold me a new 2020 DR650SE with front indicators wired around the wrong way and 15km worth of fuel in the tank - service logbook was also incorrectly filled out with illegible handwriting and was not signed by them to acknowledge they had done a pre-delivery inspection (fascinating coincidence). When I went back to complain and ask for a proper warranty/service logbook both the service manager and sales manager were really rude and arrogant and did not apologise, however they did end up giving me a new booklet just to get me to shutup. Was pretty clear that as soon as I signed the dotted line and handed over my money I wasn't worth their time. Also took them 6 weeks and a lot of chasing them up to get the included bash-plate and handguards off them when they promised 3-4 weeks. They forgot to take the invoice out of the box before giving it to me which showed they hadn't even put the order in to Suzuki Australia until about 3 weeks after I bought the bike. There's more I could say about them but yeah, all I can say is stay clear of that dealership...

[@crosstrainingadventure]

A pity they don't have a review section on their Facebook page, Matt. If you know they are consistently bad sometimes it's worth posting on a Facebook page somewhere about it. If they have annoyed enough people it spreads the word and others will know to avoid them.

[@mattoliver7734]

@@crosstrainingadventure Yep. I've written a full length review of the whole saga with them to put on their listing on google maps but I'm waiting until I get the last bit of equipment (OEM rear rack) off them. If you go through their reviews on google there are lots of 1 star reviews with stories very similar to mine. You're right, it's probably worth getting back on Facebook to post somewhere about them too.

[@csgodenver]

OK so I totally remember your first video on smaller ADV bikes, and at the time I was laughing because I owned a GSA1200. So, fast forward 4 years and having ridden three Back Country Discovery rides on the GSA. I now have a Husqvarna 701LR! You were right-there I said it. And "YES" you need to out the 701LR on the list its been a really great bike so far. I'll ALWAYS love the GSA , but it had to go.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I'm sure it was a dream when you were on the highway though! But yeah they can be such a handful once you hit the dirt roads and it starts to get rough... I don't know how I missed the LR model when doing this vid, I actually don't spend any time keeping updated on new models usually. But I did include it in the pinned first comment with other updates. 😊

[@twotiretirade4624]

My next cycle will be the new KLR, great video, subbed!!!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

We just did a vid about the new 2022 model. Good to see the price won't change!

[@csbalazs01]

I’m Ktm fan. 500 Exc is the perfect choice for off-road oriented touring

[@GnarlyChicken]

Absolutely true...I love mine in adv form!

[@toothasaurus]

Came here to say that. My 2014 EXC has a solid motor, great suspension, the lightest bike in that cc range, and it’s got a kickstart. I love it. It blows my 690 out of the water

[@GnarlyChicken]

Cant believe Barry didnt mention the 500 exc. Only real thing would possibly be the oil range...but I took mine on a 2500 kms off road trip around Newfoundland, and changed my oil 1/2 way through the trip. 20 mins job and good to go. I have a 20 litre tank and a SC seat. Didn't bother with a cush drive...no problems. I took my 500 (with only 23 lbs of tools, gear and extras), throygh and up mountain trails that the many DR 650's just couldnt. 500 exc...the best all round bike for everything!

[@ThisisKevinG]

I thought the same thing but I think he wants something a bit heavier to tackle those pavement miles... I love my husky 501! I have an adv setup for it and a single track set up... THE BEST ALL-AROUND DUALSPORT!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Just touched on the adventurised big bore dirt bikes, the Kato 500 would go into that category. Have you checked on your countershaft splines? Possibly KTM have toughened them up in recent years but they were definitely a problem for others with no cush drive hub.

[@jam_custard6475]

I have had a Dr 250 a dr650 and now have a drz400 and when it finally dies I'll be going back to a dr650 love the zook life

[@frankradaj7188]

I have a Honda CRF250L for the dirt and a BMW G310GS for exploring the roads. I did sit on one of those 650 Suzukis when I was buying the BMW, I was the most comfortable bike I sat on in the whole showroom.

[@SWATT101]

I got my Roadking for the highway touring and bought the DR for forest access.I recently moved to rural Canada...that pretty much covers my needs.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

BC, Sheldon? Some incredible riding around there...