sleepyhead65
Active Member
I've been wanting a dual sport for a long time. While my finances still dictate I don't buy any more toys I still shop and think about the possibilities.
Partly because I'm a big, fat guy but also because I like the idea of riding my bike to the trails I gravitate towards 350cc and up bikes. There are not of dual sport 400 class bikes period. Most of the alternatives to the DRZ400 are older models.
But I've noticed one can occasionally find converted dirt bikes.
Recently I saw a listing for a 2002 XR650R registered and plated. When I looked at the specs I was surprised to find it was a whopping 50 lbs lighter than the XR650L model and had better suspension.
Likewise I found a plated 2012 KLX450R which came in at 25 lbs less than THE KLX 250!
Yet again I found a plated 2008 WR450F again 25 lbs less than the WR250R dual sport.
This is a real revelation to me and really gives me pause to consider buying a converted dirt model over a purpose built dual sport. (When the day finally comes that I have a few bucks...)
My problem is I need to get a better handle on why these bikes are lighter despite the increase in displacement. Will the differences make these bikes painful to ride on the road? Is there any reason why everyone isn't modding their dirtbikes rather than buying a purpose built dually?
I'm very interested to hear everyone's opinions on this.
Partly because I'm a big, fat guy but also because I like the idea of riding my bike to the trails I gravitate towards 350cc and up bikes. There are not of dual sport 400 class bikes period. Most of the alternatives to the DRZ400 are older models.
But I've noticed one can occasionally find converted dirt bikes.
Recently I saw a listing for a 2002 XR650R registered and plated. When I looked at the specs I was surprised to find it was a whopping 50 lbs lighter than the XR650L model and had better suspension.
Likewise I found a plated 2012 KLX450R which came in at 25 lbs less than THE KLX 250!
Yet again I found a plated 2008 WR450F again 25 lbs less than the WR250R dual sport.
This is a real revelation to me and really gives me pause to consider buying a converted dirt model over a purpose built dual sport. (When the day finally comes that I have a few bucks...)
My problem is I need to get a better handle on why these bikes are lighter despite the increase in displacement. Will the differences make these bikes painful to ride on the road? Is there any reason why everyone isn't modding their dirtbikes rather than buying a purpose built dually?
I'm very interested to hear everyone's opinions on this.
