36654
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Quite a difference with exposure really.
OM
But, it was the question asked in the OP.
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Quite a difference with exposure really.
OM
The only negative in my mind of the DR650 is the weight, if you really plan a lot of off-road riding. With fuel (especially if you add a longer range tank), it's pushing 400 lbs. While that may not seem like a lot based on the weight of most BMW's, if you're picking it up a few times (riding off-road, you WILL be picking it up) on a steep dirt road with poor footing, you'll know what I mean. For comparison purposes, there are several guys on ADV Rider currently doing RTW rides on KTM 500 EXC's...they are about 265 lbs with full fuel load. My off road bike of choice is a KTM 350 EXC, although it wouldn't likely be the bike I would want if I needed to do a lot of pavement. I'm fortunate to have virtually unlimited forest road riding about 2 miles from my house. It's around 250 lbs.
Reading thru these posts........no one has championed the G310. Interesting.
I rode and owned a KLR 650 for years and they are great bikes, however too big (heavy) for me to enjoy. I just recently traded it for a Yamaha XT250 and I really like it. Yes it is tall but so light and flickable, I don't even notice. I just do the right or left slide off to get one foot down. I also like the weight and know that if alone I can pick the bike up if I drop it. Really takes the worry out of the equation for me, therefore much more enjoyable. I can ride 65-70 (if necessary) easily, but a larger person might find it unsuitable. I would not hesitate to ride this little bike anywhere. Lighter is ALWAYS better. I really like the looks of the 310 GS, but it just isn't right for me. This 250 has been around (or a version of it) for years, so I think all the bugs are worked out by now. One of the best m/c trades I've made.
Is there something like the DR650, but with fuel-injection and liquid-cooled? Equally well-regarded with a reputation for being bullet-proof, easy to maintain, and a reasonable price point for purchasing? KTM, Honda, KLR?
I rode a DR 650 for 12,000 km from Lima to Ushuaia on probably 30% gravel roads. It is a stone axe that gets the job done. I used a Corbin seat and a small windshield/fairing. Over sized gas tank is recommended. It is truly a bullet proof bike with regular maintenance. A little challenge with performance with alternating between high altitudes and sea level riding. Someone with more mechanical abilities could easily overcome that issue.
Biggest challenge on that trip with a smaller bike is the wind in Patagonia.
Others have used the DR650 for some serious riding.
https://advrider.com/lucy-vs-the-am...utm_campaign=editorial&utm_content=01_09_2020
I've done a little time on a DR and have many friends with them, as previously stated old technology and tons of aftermarket support. I had fun when I was on one but I was missing my KTM. Like the KLR its days may be numbered in the new world of emission control. I haven't spent time on a 310 but it has plenty going for it. Jenny Morgan took one and did a long term flog on it and wrote an excellent RR detailing how it worked for her. She's a very experienced offload racer and rider and she knows what she's talking about. Here's a link to her RR: https://advrider.com/f/threads/beemer-beemer-chicken-deener.1294883/
The 500 class is definitely more offload capable, I have a KTM 525 that goes very nicely and I've had it over 100mph no problem. That being said in the 650 class the KTM 640 Adventure is still considered one of the best adventure machines ever built and I have to say I love mine. Too bad the last production run was 2006.
This is one awesome do anything machine. It's my favourite that has seen heavy offload and long tours and everything in between.
View attachment 76802
Great bike, no doubt. But man does that thing vibrate.
Great bike, no doubt. But man does that thing vibrate.