Get’n Older? GO SMALL! Little Adventure Bikes, Big Fun / Holy Smokies Moto Rally Day 1

As a senior adventure motorcyclist I’m looking to go smaller. I want to make the WR250R a light Adventure Bike. 20 guys on adventure motorcycles spend 3 days riding, eating and renewing with ​⁠​⁠​⁠‪@MotoMission.‬ #dualsportadventure, #adventurebike, #seniormotorcyclist

[@605pilot]

I’m 69 and I just bought a Yamaha TW200 to ride around my small mountain town in Colorado. I still use my 2011 Harley 1200 Nighster to ride to church every Sunday.

[@jrdepew]

Need church wheels and trail wheels! TW getting more popular all the time.

[@edjones2110]

66 and riding my 411 Himalayan where ilive in north Alabama . Went to Colorado last summer . Rode the Himalayan up pikes peak , Cumberland pass , then on to Yellowstone , crazy horse memorial , Mt. Rushmore etc.. good adventure

[@jrdepew]

Sounds like one for sure. Thanks for sharing.

[@user-uh3sp9pm8j]

Very nice to see the smaller enduros being represented.

[@jrdepew]

More to come!

[@Ozarks57.]

Good to see you and Brock together again! About the WR, light is right. I’m 67 and ride a nicely modded CRF300L, it’s a great bike. Thanks for taking us along!

[@jrdepew]

I’m looking forward to riding it a lot this summer. The DR is snoozing in the garage.

[@MotoMission.]

I agree. Good to see joe and brock together

[@staceyhousel2901]

I am 53 now and 5'6. I use to ride a yz250 2stroke and definitely preferred it to the crf250 4 stroke I had before. Some accidents and yrs have passed and my husband bought me a Xt250 to trail ride. Its nice bike and got me riding again. But I kept looking for something little more. We got the CRF300LS last weekend. ❤ its just that little more I wanted.

[@jrdepew]

Very good. That's the bike I would likely have gott if I didn't have the smoking WR already.

[@krob-sn7ek]

Awesome !! Safe adventures to you !

[@raizt1596]

WR250R is about the perfect sized bike for what you're doing. Most people bring a bike too big. I think everyone believes bigger is better for some reason, but it's the opposite offroad!

[@jrdepew]

I have put a lot of trail miles on my DR650. Now I’m going to give the WR a chance to shine. Looking forward to it.

[@user-uh3sp9pm8j]

@@raizt1596 I agree completely. Every time I see a full grown man lay a titanic sized over modded and packed ADV motorcycle down and cannot pick it up by themself? I wonder if they feel like a “Chick” when this happens? But, maybe I just don’t understand and I will catch on sooner or later? Matt Spears, (Video U Tube vlogger))can and does ride an old Honda Goldwing off road wildly better than most of the experienced ADV U Tube Vloggers I have seen so far. Sad but true. Terrible for big ADV marketing I think. Thanks Joe.

[@jrdepew]

I enjoy his escapades immensely.

[@outside.moto.bro.]

Great meeting you, Brock, and the other two guys on the SM 500. I was the one on the Tenere that had the tool for Brock's front axle and a pump. Hope you guys enjoyed your trip. We had a great trip and got home on the 29th. We leave for the NEBDR next week. Really enjoy your videos... Drew

[@jrdepew]

Thanks for reaching out. That was the best day of the ride and meeting you guys at such a opportune time too. You have a great trip and you guys will be in an upcoming video.

[@riding2nowhere]

Great video 🏍🏍🏍ride safe

[@jrdepew]

Great handle!

[@edwardbrown4455]

First time watching your channel. I've known Brock for over 30 years. Hope y'all have a great ride!

[@jrdepew]

Welcome aboard!

[@Bscott-390]

That leg swingin part. hahahaha. That concrete bench was so uncomfortable. hahaha

[@jrdepew]

Hah! Thought I’d gotten video of the whole row of guys but only had a few.

[@adventuredads101]

Hey JR it was great meeting you at the cabin with the Holy Smokies guys. Bummed I didn't get to ride too much with you guys, for sure next time. Although I may take you up on the offer to do the MABDR in October with me and my brother in law. Keep up the good work and look forward to more videos.

[@jrdepew]

Next time! Mark.

[@beerbuzz62]

Awesome video glad to see you back. JR have a great 24 riding season.

[@jrdepew]

Thank you. Looking forward to it.

[@jaredgraves4905]

Always excited when I see your notification when I open KZbin. I’m a DR650 guy but looking forward to watch all your new stuff! may the good Lord grant you safety and amazing memories in 2024!

[@jrdepew]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@martincyr7259]

So glad to see you Jo and also Brock in this new video. I always enjoy and appreciate your perspective on riding and on life. I plan to join Brock on his Rocky Road Ride at the end of July. Would be great to see you there. So, I ride a 2022 Honda CRF 300l Rally. Did the MABDR last summer from Montreal and leaving in a few days for WYBDR and COBDR for a trip of a lifetime. Perfect bike for me. Your videos have greatly motivated and helped me to plan this trip. I can't thank you enough for all that I've learned from you. Safe travels for you this summer. 👍

[@jrdepew]

That sounds like a great trip. You sure you’re going to fit all that in plus Rocky Road end of July!? Your comments are very encouraging to keep putting the effort into editing.

[@martincyr7259]

@@jrdepew Great trip for sure. I'm hoping to make it time for Rocky Road. First week riding to WY, 2nd week doing that BDR and 3rd week the COBDR. I admit that I will need a bit of luck, lots of energy and good weather to stick to my plan. I will let you know how everything goes. Thanks again for sharing your adventures and stories.

[@frooke2]

Greetings from a DR rider in COLORADO! Love your adventures, keep up the good work!

[@jrdepew]

Thanks! Will do!

[@chrisdray5147]

Love your videos and I am always exited for a new one. I’m also in Virginia and hope to cross paths one day. Keep on moving.

[@jrdepew]

Waynesboro?

[@jimkonugres8454]

Jr.love the channel. I have had a wr250r since 2018 and I absolutely love that bike. It's bulletproof you can beat it up and it will still run. The only thing I did different which I think made a huge amount of difference for me was gearing down the bike just a little bit with different sprockets. It really helped with more sand and tech riding. I also changed the rear shock. I was getting bucked like a bronco before the change I put a 3 gallon tank on as well. I'm 60 and I love this bike.

[@jrdepew]

I agree. Gearing down made a big improvement.

[@user-dn5ok5fz1t]

Boy, that sure does sound like a lot of fun.I certainly wish I was doing something like that.Good for you to get out there and do it man.I wish I was out there doing it with you....

[@jrdepew]

Don’t know your circumstances but hope you can someday..

[@pcmaust]

I have a thought to share regarding "down sizing bikes". I am a older rider at 73 with goals of riding until 83 and beyond if possible. I have been riding for over 50 years both street and dirt. I hail from California so have done high speed desert stuff in addition to wooded single track. Add to that a gazillion street miles. That is my resume' in a nut shell. I have never had a crash on the street thank God. I use to commute long distances on a street bike on Southern California freeways splitting lanes much of the time just to get back and forth to work. Additionally, for recreation, I would ride from SoCal to Sacramento to hook up with a bunch of guys for a weekend excursion through the northern coastal mountain ranges and everywhere else. The only serious crashes that I have had have been off road. Over the years, I have broken a collarbone, wrist, fingers, and have crushed the left side of my rib cage twice! The last time, one of the bones almost punctured my spleen and I had a concussion. Anyway, to the point. In 2020 I bought a Honda XR650L. I thought it would make a great dual sport bike and light weight ADV bike and while it is fun tourqy, it isn't overly powerful. And the power it very controllable. The only downside was that it is heavy at nearly 350 lbs. So, I down sided to a KLX300D and truely love that bike. The biggest downside is that it lacks power when you want to carry extra gear maybe for an over nighter. But for many things that I like to do such as explore the back country the bike is great. So wanting a little more power, I know, I know, it sounds like over kill, I bought a Husqvarna FE501s. That bike definitly has some quirks to work through but I have managed to not only over come those but others as well. But I am going to cut to the quick here. I changed the ECU, opened up the exhaust, added a comfort seat, steering stablizer, and a few other things. When I swapped out the stock grips for the bolt on type, I kept the stock throttle cam. Here is the bottom line. The bike is lighter than my KLX. It has WAY more power than my KLX but it is completely controllable. Using clutch and throttle control and riding in a higher gear, I can completely control the power to the ground even in the most challenging of conditions. And, when I drop the bike, it is still easier to pick up than my KLX. The KLX in stock trim is maybe 309 lbs. The Husky is maybe 266 lbs. Now, this isnt about trying to sell a brand to anyone. There are several if not many good brands out there including Honda that will do the same thing with proper set up. Don't misunderstand what I am saying. The Kawi is an extremely pleasant bike to ride especially in rocky technical sections. But, it suffers in more wide open sections because of its lack of power. This is where the ____________ (pick your poisen) shines. I think that because of its lack of weight and handling the KTM, GAS GAS, Beta, Husky, etc etc really shine. Seat height isn't that much greater in the Husky or KTM, GAS GAS or what ever. For me as an older rider who can contain the monster inside, I can ride the Husky with pleasure and not feel like the power is too much in off road situations. The power is very controllable. Yet, the bike IS LIGHTER than a CRF300L or a KLX300D. I feel that both bikes fill a niche' so I will be keeping both my KLX and the Husky. I hope that this makes some kind of sense. I hope that it helps someone on the fence about what to do. Lastly but most importantly, don't get frustrated, overwhelmed, or angry at all of the information (some times conflicting information). Dang, sorry for the long windedness.

[@jrdepew]

So we’ll stated and 100% accurate. You have the experience needed to do such comparisons. Taming that extra power and having it available is for the experienced. Really good analysis and appreciate you sharing.

[@tripl3rider]

I’m glad I stopped swinging my legs before they really got going 😂😂 great video Joe! Glad I got to ride with you -Preston

[@jrdepew]

Same here, got to do it again!

[@ianferrier235]

Good job Joe 👍

[@jrdepew]

Thanks 👍

[@rustyspiker3569]

Hi Joe, I had a Yamaha 250 XT and loved it. Sold it a purchased a Tiger 800. I should have kept it also because they have their place in the dirt being lighter and easier to handle. Happy to see you again on utube. Rusty.

[@jrdepew]

Right tool for the right job!

[@autismion]

You could get something lighter than the XT was. Like an XR150L maybe, or DR200 and tune it like in torture test magazine. Or a 2 stroke, maybe trials bike

[@estebanmorales6568]

Love your videos. I'm pretty sure it's "El-I-Jay"

[@jrdepew]

Never been there before. Cool little town.

[@sicsempertyrannis4104]

I went from a 1200cc to a Drz400🤙

[@jrdepew]

There you go!

[@mudcatstravels9751]

Great video and ride was great to ride with you.

[@jrdepew]

Fun last day especially! Left the WR at suspension shop. They are going to diagnose the overheat problem. Should be interesting.

[@mudcatstravels9751]

@@jrdepewmyself and Alan are talking about doing the KAT in September, if you’re interested.

[@kevincraig4191]

Good to see you back on the tube! Really want to make one of Brock’s rides one day.

[@jrdepew]

You should!

[@kevincraig4191]

@@jrdepew I’m trying, and pretty close to him here in East TN.

[@MikeNoble]

Your video made it into my thread and I enjoyed your ride. I’m a new rider at 66 years old and got a bmw 310gs last year. Bought it new so it’s totally stock so mostly set for street riding. Not many trails around here in Nashville Tn but I keep hearing about the Tn dirt devil that’s about 60 miles from me. It looks like fun. Glad to find your channel.

[@jrdepew]

Welcome aboard! Good choice for a bike.

[@airadaimagery692]

At least you are in the same state as the Trans America Trail. I’m down in south Louisiana and have carried my bike to north GA to ride through GA,TN, MS. My next trip I plan to ride through AR, Ok, and CO. Maybe a shorter trip, maybe a longer one. I wont know till I go... If I lived where you do, I think I would create a loop down to the TAT somewhere, and then circle back home on a different route, taking mostly back roads.. That might be a fun trip... I like your bike. With some nice dual sport tires, I would take it off road, it’s light enough.

[@MikeNoble]

@@airadaimagery692 thanks. That’s something I’ve got to look into. That sounds fun. I appreciate the tip.

[@rolandwheeler4842]

Hi JR, looks like a great rally! Get yourself a G2 Throttle Tamer for your WR. I installed one on mine and it makes low speed, technical riding pure joy compared to stock. Pretty simple installation and inexpensive. Most of the guys on the WR20R Riders FB group have done this to deal with that twitchy throttle during low-speed maneuvering

[@jrdepew]

I’ve heard of them. Now I need to get one with your recommendation. Thanks.

[@alainmaurice5383]

Nice video. Thank you very much. I have driven my T700 since 2020 for 45,500 miles. My T700 motorbike will be resting this summer. For summer 2024 I'm riding a 2002 DR650 for travelling , 90 lbs lighter than my T7, much easier to maneuver. Lighter is better. I think that over the years my bike will become lighter.

[@jrdepew]

I am definitely trying the light side this summer.

[@jun701]

Go KLX! I got 230 for the utmost simplicity. Klx300 looks solid too.

[@jrdepew]

Yeah, KLX300 better stock suspension than Honda counterpart too.

[@jun701]

@@jrdepewEven 230’s seemingly El Chepo suspension is pretty good. I wish Japanese makers bring premium-level dual sports but less maintenance-heavy than European counterparts. (mostly less weight.) Crf450RL is a very good dual, maybe the best, but way too race-focused maintenance schedules with a picky compression ratioed engine. Anyway, have fun! Cheers.

[@martypowell4395]

Well I just missed you guys, I got there the 24.

[@jrdepew]

Next time!

[@SNxr400r]

Glad to see you made it to my back yard! Yes, the Smokey Mtn 500 & 1000 are favorite trips in North Ga. I'm very interested to see how you like the Wr250r as I'm thinking about getting either that or the dr650. I've been riding a Honda xr400r but as a senior rider, I'm sorta tired of Kick start only! Anyways, I look forward to watching your new riding season.....Safe rides always~~~

[@jrdepew]

Yep, both great bikes and I’m doing the suspension on the WR for rides with gear later this summer.

[@Sertao2013]

Its - Well I'm a running down the road , not rolling down the road . Its - Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy, not the sound of your own voice drive you crazy .

[@jrdepew]

Making it my own, no copyright infringement!!

[@airadaimagery692]

I’ve had lots of dual sports. Never had an interest in heavy adv bikes. I use to ride big heavy fast street bikes, but I got that need for speed out of my system in my 20s. In 2006 I had a DRZ400 for a couple of years,and then had to sell it due to finances. In 2021 I started shopping for another one when I discovered the 300 Rally. I Bought that and almost instantly felt like I made the wrong decision, and kept thinking about how awesome my DRZ was... But now, after 2 years, and about $2k in mods and upgrades, I think I like the Rally more than the DRZ. The wind protection and fuel injection are nice things to have. I’ve done everything you can possibly do to this bike just short of a Big Bore kit, but that just might be in the future. I definitely don’t need that, but in another year or so, If I still believe a Big Bore kit will make this bike my unicorn, and I don’t start getting negative feedback from people who have installed them on their bikes, I will most likely do it. Several KZbinrs have plenty of miles on theirs already. I’ve only heard great things about the WR. I’m sure it’s a great machine. There’s not many dual sports I don’t like.

[@jrdepew]

If I didn’t already have the WR I would have given the 300 a go. All bike need a degree of upgrades don’t they. I’m getting the suspension done now.

[@airadaimagery692]

@@jrdepew do you have to change the suspension out completely, or is it not adjustable to some degree? I was reading another comment here that suggested you get a throttle tamer for your WR. I have seen those reduce the twitchy throttle issue, but I have also experienced them having no affect at all. I guess it just depends on the bike.

[@jrdepew]

Stock, the suspension is very good for the price and adjustable. Many are content with it given how they use it. The rear rebound is known for its pogo effect on hard hits and can be a real hazard at times despite available dampening. I’m haveing it revalved and sprung for me and adventure gear. Good reports on this and the throttle tamer.

[@chuckkelley5894]

I have a few bikes, all large except a WR250R. It's a 2016, and has about 7000 miles on it. I bought it in October and have tossed a grand total of approximately 9k into this little monster. I've ridden it a total of about 300 miles on it. I just keep upgrading it. Now, with the Comfort Seat, it's around 6 feet tall! I rode it down a gravel road and was surprised I got out alive. Any suggestions?

[@jrdepew]

I’m LOL! LITTLE MONSTER! Get comfortable maneuvering, stopping, starting, slow turns on forgiving ground if your not already experienced off pavement. If it’s the twitchy throttle response, I found that gearing down 14/48 or 49 helped a lot stalling and I think I will put a THROTTLE TAMER on too. I also have an EJK electronic fuel programmer. Just dropped money into suspension upgrade that I haven’t got to tryout yet. Lots of info on forums like ADVRider.

[@dandersonjr]

60 years old and traded in my KTM 1290 SAR for a Husky 701and don't regret it one bit.

[@jrdepew]

Oh man, the 701 is a power beast!

[@bradwelch4076]

Im swangin, I'm swangin, hahahahaha

[@thelonewolf666]

they are too small for an adv bike--- they are a 100% dirt bike

[@jrdepew]

We will see!

[@airadaimagery692]

Depends on your idea of an adventure. 100% dirt bikes don’t have license plates and lights.