MarcFJ60
Adventurer
I never thought I would utter these words . . .
You need a KLR.
Here's why:
They are cheap and plentiful. Once you get a better idea what you want, you can sell it for little/no loss.
For a guy your size, it's a great fit. The DR650 is a great bike, but bigger folks don't seem to like the fit as much. I'm 5'8" and and the DR650 fits me well. The DRZ400 may fit a bit better, but won't be as good on the road and the seat is a torture device. I owned a DRZ and I'm not sure how well it would fit somebody 7" taller than me. The XRL is a great choice, but they generally aren't as easily found or as cheap as a KLR.
The KLR is set up well right out of the box. Big tank, decent seat, some wind protection. Great after market and good support online.
The KLR is versatile (as are the other bikes mentioned). But it sounds like for the riding you would be doing and your size, it's added weight won't be a burden.
A 650 thumper (single) is a good size for a bike that isn't trying to be a woods bike. It can handle single track (slowly) but handles the highway well. It's not too big especially for your size, but can give you a good idea if you want to downsize (or upsize) your next bike.
Sweet mercy, did I just actually recommend a KLR??:Wow1:
Please note, this may not be your last bike. If you see a great deal on something, jump on it. If nothing else it helps you learn what you REALLY want. (which is why I no longer have my DRZ). If you get a bike cheap enough, you don't take a loss when getting bike #2.
You need a KLR.
Here's why:
They are cheap and plentiful. Once you get a better idea what you want, you can sell it for little/no loss.
For a guy your size, it's a great fit. The DR650 is a great bike, but bigger folks don't seem to like the fit as much. I'm 5'8" and and the DR650 fits me well. The DRZ400 may fit a bit better, but won't be as good on the road and the seat is a torture device. I owned a DRZ and I'm not sure how well it would fit somebody 7" taller than me. The XRL is a great choice, but they generally aren't as easily found or as cheap as a KLR.
The KLR is set up well right out of the box. Big tank, decent seat, some wind protection. Great after market and good support online.
The KLR is versatile (as are the other bikes mentioned). But it sounds like for the riding you would be doing and your size, it's added weight won't be a burden.
A 650 thumper (single) is a good size for a bike that isn't trying to be a woods bike. It can handle single track (slowly) but handles the highway well. It's not too big especially for your size, but can give you a good idea if you want to downsize (or upsize) your next bike.
Sweet mercy, did I just actually recommend a KLR??:Wow1:
Please note, this may not be your last bike. If you see a great deal on something, jump on it. If nothing else it helps you learn what you REALLY want. (which is why I no longer have my DRZ). If you get a bike cheap enough, you don't take a loss when getting bike #2.