Doc, as others have eluded to, you'll probably be happier with one of the heavier dual sports. F650GS, KLR, Wee-Strom (650cc V-strom), etc. This summer BMW will have the F650 available with a parallel twin (71hp 800cc). This fall we should see the F800GS.
All are suitable bikes for what you describe as your intended use.
Personally, I'm very happy with my '07 F650GS. For exploring the desert back roads (including the long piece of black top between there my house), it does quite well. As a bonus, I can squeeze 70 mpg out of it while commuting, or I can run down the freeway at 110mph (but not both at the same time), and I don't have to worry about my teeth rattling out (it is a smooth SOB considering it is a single)
If you are looking at singles, I suggest you get whatever you are considering out on the freeway and see how it rides at freeway speeds. Not all singles are built the same. See if the vibration and noise are something you are willing to live with. Again, I'm happy with my BMW, but to each their own. Try before you buy....
Also, pay attention to the peg to bar distance. In the dirt, you will be standing up a lot. If the pegs and bars are to close, you will be hunched over, and not very comfortable. If the pegs are to low, you'll be smacking them on rocks off road and dragging them around all the corners on the street. IF the bars are to high, it can be uncomfortable on the street....to low and you are uncomfortable off road. The bar to peg distance can be adjusted [to a point] with bar risers, different bars, peg relocation, etc.....but it is one piece of the ergonomic puzzle that many people don't consider when looking at bikes.
But in the end, even if you don't end up with the "perfect" bike (and you never will...which is why you should have 3 or 4 bikes...), they are all just plain fun.
:bike_rider:
