Best Used 650-900cc Dual-Sport Adventure Bikes - AdventureMotorcycle.com

Best Used 650-900cc Dual-Sport Adventure Bikes Published in: Bikes With all sorts of adventure bike options ranging from simple, air cooled dual sports to race proven, liquid cooled powerhouses, the adventure bikes in this class can do almost everything. Best of all, many of these can be resold at nearly their purchase price, making them a worthy investment. This list encompasses adventure bikes from 650cc thumpers up to 900cc of multiple cylinders, so famous giants in the 1,200cc range are not included. A few of these are dinosaurs hailing from the bygone era of big-bore single cylinder glory when they were the most fire breathing four strokes available. In addition to these, there are newer bikes that have taken adventure riding platforms into the 21st century with fuel injection, ABS, spacious fuel tanks and big power. The choices here range from those ready for long highway miles in nearly stock form to those with an uncompromising dirt bias, so there can be something here for almost everyone. • BMW F800GS/GS Adventure: Featuring, at the time of its release, a new 798cc fuel injected parallel twin motor putting out power numbers comparable to the older R1150GS, this is a welcome alternative to the massive 1000cc+ adventure bikes associated with this market. These are modern contenders in the world of adventure bikes that offer the power and smoothness of multiple cylinders, but don’t weigh quite as much as the bigger giants. Instead of the iconic shaft drive found on the R-GS series, the F800GS uses a chain drive, which is easier to service in the field, but will also need consistent maintenance. For an extra cost, there are the fully loaded F800GS Adventure models that were released a few years after the standard F800GS. Those can be had with a convenient Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) system and Automatic Stability Control (ASC) for traction management. Fortunately, the ASC and optional ABS can be turned off for dirt riding. Keep in mind that these modern electronic systems won’t be as easy to troubleshoot in the backcountry as the simpler bikes. The suspension has limited adjustability that might inhibit really aggressive high speed riding. The Adventure model features different cosmetics, a bigger 6.3 gallon fuel tank up from the standard 4.2 gallons, a bigger windscreen, a luggage rack, engine guards and around 30 additional pounds over the standard 800. If all you need are engine guards and a skid plate, it may be more cost effective to just upgrade a standard model. The F800GS puts out 400 Watts of farkle-ready power and have a respectable 9.5 inches of ground clearance, which results in a 35 inch seat height that can be lowered to just under 33 inches. These bikes are on the heavy end of the spectrum for sub-900cc adventure bikes, with the Adventure option barely passing the 500 pound mark, but they still have obstacle-friendly 21 inch front wheels like the Tiger 800 XC. These can be excellent adventure touring bikes that will eat up highway miles and still be very capable off road, assuming they’re in the hands of an experienced rider. PROS CONS ▲ Big 400 watt stator output for accessories ▼ Limited suspension adjustability ▲ Good 9.5 inch ground clearance for bigger bikes ▼ Small early recalls, check to confirm warranty work ▲ Options for accessories between F800GS models • Triumph Tiger 800XC: Released as a direct competitor to the F800GS, the Tiger 800XC is another option in the field of adventure bikes that have more than a single cylinder but don’t break the quarter-ton mark on the scale. The smooth 799cc inline triple makes more power than the BMW, but it doesn’t offer the same low-end torque as the parallel twin on the F800GS. It has more adjustable suspension than the F800GS, with roughly 8.5 inches of similar travel, but less ground clearance at 8.5 inches. Still, the differences in off road performance will only become noticeable at the margins of speed, both high and low, where the tighter steering geometry and more forward weight bias can make the Tiger slightly more challenging to control. The suspension is also slightly softer than what’s on the BMW. All Tiger 800 motors put out a monstrous 645 watts of electricity to power any accessories short of a microwave oven. As far as electronics go, the Tiger 800 gets the standard modern fuel injection, switchable ABS and then traction control in later models starting with 2015. As with any modern bike, the electronic systems can be more difficult to troubleshoot if, for example, water floods the instrument panel during a river crossing tip-over. The comparably low and adjustable seat height of 33.3 to 34.1 inches makes it more manageable when loaded with luggage, and the midsize 5 gallon fuel tank makes for good range between fill ups on the highway. The highway is also where the powerful motor does very well, as the smooth triple doesn’t vibrate as much as engines with fewer cylinders. Loads of options for luggage and protective hardware solidify this as another good option in the modern adventure bike category that can still do impressive things off road when in the right hands. PROS CONS ▲ Smooth, powerful engine ▼ Ergonomics not as well suited for technical riding ▲ Low, adjustable seat at 33.3 - 34.1 inches ▼ Occasional electrical issues ▲ Huge 645 watt stator output • Suzuki DL650 V-Strom Technically not considered a dual sport because of the chassis geometry and cast wheels, the DL650 V-Strom can actually be a surprisingly capable machine off the pavement. It will be most comfortable on paved and gravel roads, but skilled riders can do amazing things with this bike. This is the most highway-friendly 650 on this list, thanks to the v-twin engine that doesn’t vibrate quite like the thumpers, wind protection and the more street friendly 19 inch front wheel. The ABS and a low seat height can also appeal to newer riders, as can the less maintenance-intensive fuel injection, but the ABS is more challenging to turn off for dirt riding. These bikes really do have adventure riding potential, as shown by the plentiful aftermarket skid plates, engine guards and luggage racks. With just under 7 inches of clearance between the ground and nearly 490 pounds of weight, a skid plate can be a good investment depending on where you’ll be riding. The relatively large 5.8 gallon fuel tank will keep the 645cc liquid cooled engine fed for quite a while, and the upright riding position is comfortable for longer rides. Some changes have happened since its release in 2004, with dual spark plugs and optional ABS in 2007, and the next year a bump in stator output from 375 watts to 400. In 2012 it got heavily revised and is our recommended pick if you have the money. New cosmetics, larger and stiffer forks, longer rear suspension travel, power increases and a half-gallon drop in fuel capacity make for a very worthy set up updates. The 650 V-Strom platform has been around for more than a decade, and that shows in the aftermarket and in online resources. The stator can handle electronic accessories and the comfortable riding position can have you enjoying them for long periods of time, especially if you choose to replace the stock seat. While more street biased, the Kawasaki Versys is an additional option you may want to explore in this direction. PROS CONS ▲ Low seat height just over 32 inches ▼ Low ground clearance and limited suspension ▲ Smooth, fuel injected motor with higher power than 650 thumpers ▼ Relatively high weight for 650s ▲ Big 375-400 watt stator output for accessories • BMW F650GS/GS Dakar: Of the 650 thumpers on this list, the F650GS is the most capable on the street. However, it can still be a solid contender when the pavement ends, especially in the hands of a skilled rider. Some may also find it the most beginner-friendly bike on this list given its plethora of helpful features. Good, reasonable power, one of the lowest seats in class, a low center of gravity, a fairing and ABS all make for a comfortable riding experience. The low height works with the medium weight of roughly 420 pounds. From 2000 until 2007 BMW produced the F650GS and F650GS Dakar models with a durable, fuel injected, liquid cooled Rotax engine. A slightly tricky fuel injection system was solved in 2004 by a new FI system and the addition of a second spark plug. All models can get an incredible 55-60 mpg. The Dakar version has a proper 21” front wheel, appropriately higher seat and longer suspension travel. Both GS models have simple, damping rod forks with relatively short stock suspension travel at 6.7 inches for the standard and 8.3 for the Dakar, comparable to the Gen 2 KLR 650. However, the F650GS models have a massive stator output of 400 watts, so running fog lights, heated gear, a GPS and more is a breeze. Besides the V-Strom, few 650cc competitors can beat that with roughly 200 or fewer watts each. The fairing is also a nice feature for highway miles, and the air-cooled 650s don’t have much in that department. Switchable ABS helps keep it capable in the dirt, and the spoked 19 inch front wheel on the standard is still better off road than the 19 inch cast wheels on some competitors. With readily available luggage systems, the F650GS is a proven and well-liked platform for adventure riding where long highway stretches are going to be a factor, but you still want to be able to comfortably handle the bike in off road terrain. PROS CONS ▲ Low seat height under 33 inches ▼ Limited ground clearance and suspension travel ▲ Big 400 watt stator for accessories ▼ Some pre-2004 models: unpleasant fuel injection characteristics ▲ Proven reliability and good power • Kawasaki KLR650: The KLR650 is slightly more street biased than a perfectly 50/50 dual sport, but not by much. The KLR fits between the F650GS and the DR650SE as far as street- and dirt-friendliness go. The long-living, liquid cooled, dual cam motor is more complicated than its single cam competitors, but that difference is negated by incredibly helpful online resources. Soft, basic suspension and less than 9 inches of ground clearance limit high speed off road performance and the high center of gravity can make the nearly 435 pound bike more challenging to maneuver in technical terrain. However, the compromise gets you one of the biggest fuel tanks in class, a wide seat and a fairing for more comfortable highway riding. From its reincarnation out of the KLR600 in 1987, the KLR650 underwent changes in the engine for 1996 until a bigger redesign for 2008. Here it got new cosmetics, better brakes, stiffer suspension with less travel, and a handful of other changes. The infamous “doohickey” - the balancer chain tension adjuster lever - can disintegrate on any Gen 1 with any mileage, and the spring and “doo” replacement is still a recommended fix on all KLRs. In mid 2014 the KLR got updated again with stiffer suspension and a reshaped seat, but the 35 inch seat height has remained the same. After 30 years the real beauty is in how little has changed. The engine and frame are largely the same, so aftermarket parts practically grow on trees, there’s an endless wealth of knowledge online for parts and maintenance, and with a few upgrades this machine can cross the entire planet - as many have proven. An aftermarket skid plate and replacing the factory “doohickey” assembly will ensure the legendary reliability of this dual sport while countless luggage options ensure everyone finds something they like. Owning a KLR will help you understand why it’s become a cult classic. PROS CONS ▲ Massive aftermarket support and online resources ▼ Limited suspension and ground clearance under 9 inches ▲ Excellent overall reliability ▼ “Doohickey” fix ▲ Big 6 gallon fuel tank and lots of luggage options • Suzuki DR650SE: Sometimes called “The Doctor,” this dual sport can be the cure for those seeking a 50/50 dirt and street friendly, budget minded adventure bike. With a few changes throughout the years, Suzuki has had a chance to prove and almost perfect this model as the oil-cooled, single cam bridge across the gap between the XR650L and the KLR650 in every sense. Over the years from its birth in 1991 to 2005 it saw changes in frame design, suspension and the engine, leading to the current 12-year run of nothing but cosmetic changes since 2005. Just watch out for 1998 and 1999 models that haven’t had the starter idler gear issues fixed and for any year it’s worth making sure the Neutral Sensor Unit (NSU) hardware is secured with threadlocker so the screws don’t fall into the engine. As with the KLR, once the achilles heel is taken care of, the DR650SE is an excellent platform to turn into an inexpensive, well balanced adventure bike. It has easy options for better wind protection, medium 10.4 inch ground clearance, just over 10 inches of suspension travel, and comes from the factory with an oil cooler. It’s speculated that this oil cooler extends the motor’s lifespan to rival the KLR for longevity. Relatively low weight of approximately 365 pounds, a fairly low seat height under 35 inches with an optional kit to make it even lower, and a capable, reliable motor make this a realistic option for even a new adventure rider. While it’s more dirt worthy than the KLR, it’s also one of the most compliant 650 dual sports that can satisfy an experienced rider or a newcomer. Aftermarket parts all over the internet will fix any shortcomings such as the small metal gas tank, soft suspension and lack of a luggage rack to take this trusty machine wherever you can ride it. PROS CONS ▲ Oil/air cooled motor is simple and reliable ▼ Soft, simple suspension ▲ Low seat height under 35 inches and good 10.4 inch ground clearance ▼ NSU hardware needs threadlocker ▲ Considerable online resources • Honda XR650L: None of the other options in this class have gone from birth to the present day, 24 years later, with fewer changes than the XR650L. None of the other dual sports in this class share such a complete heritage with a racing big bore four stroke that had a widespread reputation at desert races like the Baja 1000, National Hare Scramble Championships, Grand National Cross Country Championships and the International Six Days Enduro. The genes of the XR600R are clearly visible in the XR650L. With adjustable cartridge forks offering nearly a foot of travel and a fully adjustable rear shock, it has capable suspension even for its age. 13 inches of ground clearance, an 18 inch rear wheel for full dirt tire options, no tire-saving rubber cush drive on the rear hub, no tachometer, skimpy wind protection and almost 100 fewer pounds than the KLR and F650GS make it far more suited for the dirt than the pavement. This is an example of the ever present compromise in the dual sport world that sits unapologetically on the dirt-friendly side. Highway miles will be less comfortable, it will chew through rear tires, and its 37 inch tall skyscraper of a seat is less than an inch away from full motocross height. However, 345 pounds it’s the lightest Japanese 650 with the best ground clearance in this entire class, but it’s height can add a challenge when loaded with luggage in technical terrain. Still, the air cooled single cam motor is reliable, simple to maintain, and there are many aftermarket options to build this into a very capable backcountry explorer. Once the low handlebars are sorted and a larger tank is added, this can be a versatile motorcycle for a budget-minded rider that will spend lots of time riding more aggressively off the pavement. PROS CONS ▲ Great adjustable Showa suspension, despite it’s age ▼ Tiny 2.4 gallon stock fuel tank ▲ Biggest ground clearance in class at 13 inches ▼ No oil cooler: engine oil can get very hot ▲ One of the lighter 650 dual sports at 345 pounds • KTM 640 Adventure: Somehow, KTM managed to squeeze a 6.7 gallon fuel tank, a fairing and liquid cooling into a sub-400 pound package. They did that with a mountainous 37+ inch tall seat and over a foot of ground clearance that can make the 640 Adventure a bit more cumbersome in low speed technical terrain than its more minimalistic sibling, the 640 Enduro. However, the fully adjustable suspension with almost a foot of travel keeps the chassis well planted during spirited riding. The 640s have both kick and electric starters, which add starting reliability for situations in the backcountry where bump starting may not be feasible. Despite the noteworthy success of the LC4 engine platform in the Dakar Rally, early 640 models had reputations marked with reliability issues, but those were largely smoothed out by 2004. Smooth, however, wouldn’t be how to describe the highway riding characteristics of the 640. The powerful 625cc liquid cooled motor creates significant vibration at higher speeds and the seat isn’t the greatest, but in the end your tolerance will determine if these are serious factors. The 640 models are examples of this class that lock down the dirt-friendly side of the spectrum, but that doesn’t mean the brakes have to be sketchy for street use because 2004 saw the introduction of dual front disks. Over time there have been progressive changes in suspension, carburetion and cosmetics, among a few other small things, and if you find an earlier model make sure the proper fixes have been done. With modern suspension, excellent power, a fairing and one of the biggest stock gas tanks in this class, these are well-equipped adventure bikes already in stock form. Add some luggage and these will take you far through the backcountry, and they’ll do so with speed and agility as well - traits that not all of these bigger bikes can boast about as well at the 640 Adventure. The LC4 eventually evolved into the most powerful single cylinder engine per cc in its latest version. The KTM 690 Enduro R was introduced in 2009 to America and instantly became favored by many as the best dual sport motorcycle on the market. Add Brembo brakes with ABS, heavy duty WP suspension, long service intervals, and the result is a bike that could please even the most demanding enthusiasts. Due to it's popularity, KTM 690 Enduro R's disappear off the used market as soon as they appear. Check-out ADVMoto's Project KTM 690R here! PROS CONS ▲ Great, fully adjustable WP suspension and big 12.4 inch ground clearance ▼ Highway comfort is limited ▲ High power with reliable carburetion ▼ Early reliability issues up to 2004 ▲ Good dirt-friendly ergonomics and huge fuel tank Depending on where you live, the Honda XRV750 Africa Twin, which shares lineage with the Dakar Rally winning NXR750 platform, can be another option worth exploring. Another liquid cooled Honda that also arrived in the late 1980s is the XL600V Transalp that was available in the US for 1989-1991, but is far more available in the rest of the world. The Yamaha XT660Z is the modern continuation of the air cooled XT600 series, which are additional options in the popular 650cc thumper class from the late 1980s and early 1990s. If you seek newer European thumpers, the Husqvarna TE610 and TE630 can be additional fuel injected, liquid cooled options. This isn’t a fully comprehensive list of the best 650-900cc dual sport adventure bikes available, but we feel these bikes offer excellent value for adventure riding. The characteristics discussed here should help you find the right adventure bike for your purposes, so please let us know your suggestions in the comments! http://ift.tt/2lMuFnj
 
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