too much information....which bike

[LATENIGHTROB]

I am looking to buy a D/S that I can use for commuting purposes (on nice days) and to ride mainly fire cuts on my off days. I am 5'9 165lbs. I originally was focusing on the drz400, then a friend pointed out the xr650L. Then I came across the KLR650 which I am favoring for now. I am by no means going to ride hard core, more or less just getting out and exploring. Any information-Pros and Cons would be greatly appreciated.

 

[CJ Rider]

Don't sweat it, Rob. If you're just tooling around and commuting, then any of these would be great (KLR650, XR650, DR650). The KLR and XR are a little taller, the DR can be lowered more. They're ALL good commuting/tooling bikes, though. The DRZ400 would be something to think about if you're going farther offroad than jeep trails and not doing so much street. So just get what feels comfortable to you and what you can find a good deal on. You'll have fun any way you go there!

 

[Streeter]

For commuting and fire roads, and general adventure touring, the KLR 650 is best. Lots of aftermarket support and the fairing really helps on the highway.

Paul Streeter
'93 XR650L
'88 KLR 650

 

[motometal]

like these guys said, i'd put the KLR at the top for the street, and the DR most suited for the dirt, with the XRL somewhere in between. Another way of looking at it: the power/weight/high speed manner of the DR won't be as good for the street, and the KLR will be somewhat of a pig off road.