The Dual Sport Motorcycle for Short Riders I Wish They Would Make
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- Опубликовано: 5 сен 2024
- The dual sport motorcycle options for short riders are generally limited to budget-oriented bikes suitable for beginners, like the DR200, TW200, and XT250 (and like my 2006 XT225). These are all super fun motorcycles that will do 95% of what I want when riding but there are times I wish there was a shorter dual sport with just a bit more power and more serious suspension. On this ride I consider the features that I, as an older, shorter rider, would be willing to pay for. Based on the comments on this channel it seems like there's a market for more dual sport options with lower seat heights.
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This channel is for motorcycle riders, mechanics, and enthusiasts who enjoy the simple joys of motorcycling, from dual sport riding to fixing up old bikes on a budget. My videos also consider the perspective of short motorcycle riders (when it’s helpful and relevant) in choosing and modifying bikes and equipment.
I’ve been hooked on motorcycles since 1975 when, at the age of 11, my dad brought home a shiny new Suzuki TM75 for me and a Suzuki TC185 for himself so that we could trail ride together in the hills of West Virginia. Since then I’ve worked as a mechanic, owned countless bikes, and even worked in the motorcycle industry for a number of years as a photographer and journalist. Now I do mainly video production and enjoy nothing more than making and sharing these motorcycle videos on RUclips.
Thanks again for watching. Ride safe!
- jimmytmoto
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I've had these exact thoughts many times. We need a bike exactly like the xt225, but with the power of a 350. In all honesty, I'd like to see the seat height even slightly lower than the xt225, because my wife, and other women I know, who know how to ride, are really short. Neither i nor they have any interest in racing. Just riding off road for fun, and being able to do interstate speeds safely when needed. I can't even begin to count the other people I know who agree with this sentiment. Motorcycle companies are wasting a great opportunity to take advantage of a big market by continuing to ignore our comments.
Great commentary. I just bought a 2021 XT250. It was really the only bike I considered due to my 5"9" height. The seat height is perfect. The bike is awesome on trails, dirt roads, and back roads.
I'm 5'8" 155lbs and looking to get my first bike sometime soon. The XT250 looks like a decent all-rounder, I want to commute to work (about 5 miles) and use it to check trail cams and food plots at my hunting spot. XT250 is looking more and more like exactly the tool for the job.
I Am 5.5ft driven scooters and small displacement motorcycles a good bit i wanted to give a try on the offroad when i moved from Greece to USA i testride pretty much all dualsport bikes(crf 250l-klx300-xt250-drz400).Even with my time on the saddle i loved how the xt 250 felt you felt secure by being able to flat both legs but just before i pulled the trigger i drove a wr250r and there was no going back from that too tall for me but the feel once you were hitting the trails is comparing to nothing else i tried.I am shopping around for my 5.3ft wife and we are leaning towards the xt250.My conclusion is if you are a new driver just pick whatever gives you the most confidence to ride but if you have some experience just go with whatever bike makes you want to ride more and you gonna work around your height
man im 5'6 ima be on my xt250 for the rest of my life 😭
You’ve expressed nearly all of my frustrations regarding the seemingly futile search for a dual sport motorcycle that combines high performance, long maintenance intervals, and adjustable suspension with a low seat height. I also find absurd the trade practice of equating low seat height with beginner status. At 5’ 6” (29 inseam), I want the same unicorn bike that you do. I am absolutely not a beginner at off-road riding.
Yeah, it seems like there are a bunch of us in this boat but apparently not enough for the manufacturers to see a market in it. What really surprises me is that the bikes are largely built in Asia where average heights are shorter. They do get some slightly modified models over there that just aren't shipped here, but I've yet to see the bike we're both looking for...
@@jimmytmoto You mentioned at the end your desire for street bike footability while riding a dual sport. It made me think, "Where is optimum footability (a cruiser) and why." Earlier you talked about vertical frame geometry; but left out the other dimension, the horizontal. It relates to wheelbase, which is constrained for a dual sport to maintain agility.
As an extreme example, consider a Vulcan 1500 vs. your XT 225. The Vulcan has a seat height of 27.6 inches (XT seat height is 31.9 inches) and yet the Vulcan's wheelbase is a whopping 13.5 inches more (over 25% longer). You'll get your footability, but it will maneuver like a fully-loaded oil tanker.
I have a 30” inseam & yes I did spend some money to get my dream bike in 2005. I have been riding since then a new 2005 KTM EXC 525. The first modification I made was to a Race Tech factory trained technician who add a heavier titanium springs front & rear to match my weight & riding skills. He then revalved the front & rear suspension for my weight & skills. Finally & this was the best thing yet for mods, he added lowering washers to both ends. This took 3” out of the 13” of travel both ends. I now have a seat height of 34” & with sag once I sit on the bike I reach the ground with the ball of my feet both sides. I ride mainly dirt roads & only use pavement to get to those dirt roads. A suspension tuner should be your friend. I asked if they just added the lowering washers what should be the average price for that service alone he said just the price of the washers (around $20) & the price of just a normal fork & shock service. So, I am certain that would be different in different cites, but here in D/FW it would be around $200 in service fees so $220 total here. If you have a 30” inseam it makes most bikes you might want just trip to a reputable suspension tuner away from having your unicorn machine available for you. Oh & I have let friends 6’2” to 5’8” test ride my KTM & the next week they went to the tuner who did my bike & had their suspension lowered by 2” as well as set up for their weight & skills. They, like me have said it’s the greatest mod to do to any bike for the price!!!! It makes you a better rider on your bike!!!!
Yep, beef up the xt suspension a bit, put in a 350cc with 6 speed at same or close to same ride height, perfect imo. Or if yammy would just punch the 250 a bit and add a sixth gear would be tremendous
Imagine a TW200 frame with a drz400 engine. It would be awesome!
I am super happy you brought up the frame and seat height differences between the newer Kawasaki and the others. I am really digging the new Kawasaki 230, the power for its size is fantastic and the majority of the reviews are spot on. However, the more and more I research these bikes, the more I want something with a lower easier to manage seat height. I am sure my height can handle the 230's seat heights without issue. I just like the 'sit' in feeling the other bikes offer rather than the ride on top over everything feeling the others have.
As far as engine, Yamaha already has the 400cc air cooled fuel injected engine from the sr400 which they just discontinued a year or 2 ago. Slap that in a updated xt250 style bike with some budget bin inverted front forks and adjustable rear shock
I guess you don't understand how emissions work when you create a new vehicle
@@chrispekel5709 well, given that the sr400 I am referring too had only been brought to the United States market a couple years prior to me making that comment I would hope that they could get that engine to meet emissions again.
@@DirtRider22a Hey man, sorry for being so rude when I posted - it wasn't intentional. As it stands the SR400 engine is pretty gutless and too old a design (it's been around since the 70's) for Yamaha to want to update. Unlike Kawasaki who always seem to keep things around for decades Yamaha is a more expensive brand and would most likely want to develop an entirely new engine. What you're talking about would really be a Royal Enfield Himalayan competitor and I don't think yamaha is interesting in competing there. Thoughts?
@@chrispekel5709 Interesting point, of course with an air cooled engine this imaginary bike wouldn’t be something new, or cool by todays standards but I think if they slapped that 400cc in a better sprung version of their ttr230, with atleast a 3.5 gallon tank, and lights for the street, it would definitely sell to us older riders, and in my case someone who doesn’t care about the latest tech and just wants a simple air cooled machine that makes more than 15hp at the wheel. The royal enfield is nice but I wouldn’t take it down single track. My old dr350 was perfect, just a shame no one is still building something like that
I bought a DR200 last December and I am in love with my little bike.
That's great to hear, Alvaro! I'd love to have a DR200, too. Enjoy the ride!
I’m 6’2” 235 with full gear, and I recently sold my Beta RR450 to steal my wife’s XT225. She doesn’t ride much, and I love the XT. I’d happily purchase a new version of it if someone made one with up-to-date suspension. The low seat height is perfect even for us tall folks!
I've heard this type of comment from so many riders! I do applaud Beta for offering lowering kits and seats but there's nothing like a purpose-built shorter bike. Fingers crossed that the manufacturers take notice at some point.
I'm 5"6 I ended bying a drz400sm, I put a low seat and some knobbies and i can almost flat foot. It's works awesome
I always wonder the same ! Perhaps now the big brands are just listening to geeks and not actual riders in interesting new segments! 300cc , low height, 9+ inch suspension, modern components. I would place a order today !
You can lower the XT250 by another inch with a lowering kit making it very stable in rocky/trail areas. For a few hundred dollars you can make it a very worthwhile dual purpose bike. For your purposes, and what I can see, your riding conditions are ideal for the XT250. Gravel roads are perfect for your bike. I might suggest a 14 tooth front sprocket so you aren't shifting as much as I'm hearing and give you the grunt you want. Which is surprising because I'm not seeing a lot of elevation changes. And you can tackle the gnarly stuff with this as a stock bike. Ask anyone who has one in Northeast Pa. In fact, just go to any UTUBE video that has the Famous Reading Outdoor and view a few. The video you see is 3 times harder than what it looks.. A woman with an XT225 goes anywhere the KTM's and Betas go except for the nasty hill climbs..
Thanks much for the info, NoBs! I'm already running a 14t up front and it's been great. It helped on hills and really doesn't hamper road going at all. In this part of Ohio we don't have a whole lot of elevation change, it's mainly shorter, steeper climbs, though riding areas in Kentucky aren't far away. It really makes me appreciate the riding where I grew up in West Virginia, with the hills just outside the door. And I'll definitely check out the Reading video. Thanks!
You hit the nail on the head!!
Great chat video! Good subject matter. Picked up my deuce and a quarter yesterday, 32 hour ride in the Jeep. I love this bike! Seems like a real power house coming off of a year of Honda 90s. I love how smooth it is at 60mph. It is going to be perfect for my needs. Take care of that shoulder, seeya next time .
Congrats on the new 225! 32 hour ride...? That's dedication, my friend. So glad you're loving the first impressions, keep me posted on how it goes. And the shoulder is getting better everyday, thanks...I should be back riding soon!
I'm a shorter guy like you and ride the XT250. I love that bike, but a higher top end speed would be great. I would pay for a modern dual sport that is shorter and has a little more power and better suspension than the XT today. I'd still keep the XT, because it is awesome, but something a little more powerful (say 30hp), keep the engine characteristics of the XT, upgrade the suspension with adjustability and nice components and maybe drop the weight a little. I think there is a market for it, but for now the XT250 does it for me.
Great SI route, looks fun. Please share the route in SI you ride. Always looking for some new routes for a ride.
Well thought out video.
You got my vote. I have a XT225 and was wanting something a tad larger. I have been shopping and there really isn't much in the 300cc area. There used to be several 350's. Suzuki DRZ400 is about the only game in town unless you want to do extreme maintenance. Kawasaki makes the KLX300, (60 hour oil changes), but one can not make it street legal everywhere. Once you do add the street stuff, it is getting closer to the weight of a DRZ. A TW300 6 speed would also work for me. I wonder if The XT225 bottom end could handle a big bore kit.
I am still undecided what the next bike should be. Maybe a DR650 or DRZ. The Dr650 can be lowered quite a bit. There is a second mounting hole on the rear shock, and in the front, inverting the spring and spacer takes it down a tad. Then you can do a rear link and raise the front tubes for more. Why can't the other smaller bikes do this like the DRZ? You want taller, you got it. You want shorter, no problem. The lower the bike is the easier it is for me to handle extra weight. Dropping the bike on a hill then trying to get a leg back over it is tough.
Dude, the DRZ, hands down...my channel is geared to the DRZ if you would like to check out.
There just isn't much available performance-wise for the XT225, it seems. You can mix and match a cam from here and a pipe from there but it's really limited when it comes to overbores, so I've decided to just run 'er stock and keep the quiet reliability. And I've certainly looked at the DR650 and DRZ400. 100% agreed that Suzuki got it right with the ability to lower the DR with simple owner mods! A friend has a DRZ400SM (17" wheels) with a lower seat and I can tip toe it. Which, I guess this all leads me back to the point of the video...at 5'5" and 56 years old, I just can't think of another bike I want to move to. Plus I like the low weight, as you said. If you're interested in the DRZ400 definitely listen to what Adventure Awaits has to say. Hmmm, this is giving me an idea for another video...
A TW300 with 6 speed would be BADAASS I just bought a 2020 Tdub & love it.
I really love my dr350. It's a shame they quit making them.
I totally agree I wish they would build your dream bike I would buy it in 2 seconds account of wanting a bike with more power but not tall enough to fit on.
Given the amount of comments from this video and others, this issue for us stumpy folks seems like a massive business opportunity. With VC and crowd funding help, we could all come together to produce a God tier short-person dual sport motorcycle
I used to have an xt500 years ago and it sat low and had power. Love to see something like that again only modernized. It didn’t even weigh much more than a modern 250-300. I’d like a drz400 but can’t touch the ground. And your right, seat height has nothing to do with ability. Give us an xt350 with some guts and call it the xt350 pro!
Pro cycle has killer aftermarket suspension for that XT 250 I’m a big boy and accommodates for my weight and size and the use great material on the springs you can get adjustable front forks through those guys they sell all the kids everything for that bike
That would definitely be my next move for the XT225, the aftermarket suspension from Cogent Dynamics (which Pro Cycle sells). It's great you're loving the bike!
Love your commentary man!
Thanks, Tim! I talk to myself when I'm riding, anyway, so I might as well record it. Ha! Glad you enjoy it.
There are short riders with money who want to reliably cruise on a dual sport at today's speed limits to get to the next small town. There is nothing new available that can do that with a low seat height. Yes, there are a few adventure bikes in that category, but they are heavier and don't have enough suspension travel to be considered dual sport. For those who say you cannot have low seat, decent suspension travel and ground clearance.......the XT250 does it, just wish it was an XT450.
Exactly what I'm running into! It took me awhile to get used to running the XT225 at 70 mph from town to town but it seems to handle it, though it certainly isn't ideal. I only do it when riding with others, otherwise it's 55(ish) mph for me. Give us a short, torquey, burly bulldog of a dual sport that can handle trips, manufacturers!
Seems like the small engine allows the smaller frame to keep it higher off the ground. With a bigger frame and engine u will have a low ground clearance that is a worse issue than a slightly higher seat. Im short and I hate when they are so tall too. But I'd rather have a bike with good performance and sacrifice some comfort
I totally agree with the tall bike problem. I have an older BMW 650 with the factory low seat and a 1" lowered suspension. But it's very top heavy and the seat is wide. I can manage it but I always feel limited as to where I can take it. I also have a Honda CRF 230 L and that's so much better. However it's more limited to day trips. I would like a low 400 twin adventure bike. But we are the minority, so it probably won't happen. I was almost thinking of modifying a Rebel 500 but that has too many other issues to make it viable.
I enjoyed your video. Beautiful country side.
Thanks a bunch! Yep, we're thinking along the same lines as far as motorcycles. It's impossible to tell how a bike will ride from the spec sheet, as you've said with your BMW. And I also think the Rebel 500 is an intriguing ride but, as you said, lots of other issues with layout. I'm realizing I might just be riding older motorcycles for awhile and I'm actually okay with that!
Re wanting a low 400 twin adv bike - I have '97 Honda XL400V TransAlp. It is fairly low, has great bottom end torque and the engine is smooth & sounds great. However, it weighs more than my F800 GS and produces less than half the HP : (
Are you short? Didn’t know. I’m only 5’9”, but I have weirdly long legs (32” blue jeans, 33” dress pants). I’m a TW rider, because it was the bike I learned on back in the late 90s (I was a kid, 34 now). I’ve ridden ‘good’ bikes, and there for a little bit I rode hard, and didn’t mind ‘big’ bikes (125 and 250 2-strokes and such). Falling hurts now, though, and what I love about XTs or the beloved TW is that you can still ride them pretty hard and you (almost) never go down (that) hard. They don’t make me want to ride stupidly. My family farm is in SE Ohio (Gallia county), by the way, and I live in wild, wonderful WV. Love your homesickness for here, there truly isn’t better non-desert riding anywhere in the States.
I actually had a OR 250 Husky bought used .Probably one of few in Minnesota. The rider former state mx champ Pete A rode it in Utah. I rode mine in northern MN. I used tree stumps, milk cartons to get on it! Jumped off it like a horse. Now at 60+ XT 250 looks good!
None of the major manufacturers care about us shorter riders except BMW whom do offer different seats for some of their models. I am 5ft 5 and almost no adult bike fits me with 26 inch inseam. Dirt or street. I either had to install a lowering link, shave the seat or learn to balance the bike with only 1 foot on the ground. I have heard of some riders having suspension components shortened and other serious work but no matter what you do is just not worth the cost. I just learned to live with having to accept riding bikes that were too tall for me.
I just bought a 06 xt225. I live in louisville. Be cool to cross paths exploring some day.
I have a xt600 and it’s almost exactly what you are describing. Low seat hight and a big engine. It’s perfect for everything I do does fine on the highway and is great off-road. I can pull in almost any gear. Wish it was a 6 speed and had adjustable suspension. However even on that old bike it came with disc breaks in the rear. I’m 6ft but I have a 30inseam and I fit on that bike perfect. I even got mine for $800 lol. I have a drz400 as-well and that bike is much taller.
It's cool that you mention the XT600 and I'm glad you're enjoying the bike. I feel like if Yamaha just brought back the 90s XT600 and XT350 then I'd have a bigger bike I'd feel comfortable on!
Your right on the money and I need one 👍
Unfortunately, not available in the US, but the Beta Alp 4.0 checks most of the boxes you (we) are looking for. DR350 engine (6 speed transmission, air cooled) and short stand over height. I would buy one if I could!
cliffh1975, you've NAILED IT! I'd never heard of the Beta Alp 4.0 but that's exactly the bike I want! Thanks so much for pointing it out, it has me thinking. I loved my DR350 engine and would love to ride it in that custom, smaller Beta package. It sounds like they've recently discontinued it in Europe, too, because of emissions. Oh, man, how can we make one of those in our garage?
We have several dual sports in our garage. TW200, XT250, DRZ400, and a Beta 500 RRS. My friend is a Beta dealer, and he is not able to get the Beta Alp 4.0 through his dealer network. The Alp would be a perfect fit in our garage filling a large gap for short stand over height, and highway speed capability. (The TW and XT are for the Mrs) If anyone knows how to get an Alp 4.0 to the United States, I would be much obliged!
Agree totally with your desire for a slightly larger displacement xt. Back in 1982 I had the xt550 and with my 30 inch inseam I could flat foot it. I loved that bike and it proves that a low seat height bigger displacement can be done. I just turned 60 and falling is something I plan on avoiding as much as possible. With my xt 250 I can waddle through the really hairy stuff. My friend has the klx 250 and it looks like a great bike but my chances of hurting myself on that bike are too great. Just too tall for me. Used to ride with another not to tall of a fellow with the honda 250 and he was an excellent rider but fell a lot when he had to stop on uneven ground or just getting on or off the bike. An xt 300-325 would suit me to a tee.
We have a couple of things in common. My first, bought new, bike was an '82 XT550. I also recently turned 60 but still ride a couple of dual-purpose/adventure bikes.
That 550 makes almost double the HP, with similar weight vs. some new 250/300 dual-purpose bikes.
The only issue for me is the lack of e-start on uneven terrain.
Couldn't agree more, I had a ktm freeride 350 lowered to its lowest setting but the rear wheel would hit the fender on big bumps, then looked at the beta xtrainer 200cc 2 stroke but it couldn't really ride on freeways to get to the riding areas. So I ended up settling on a klx250s it was low enough for my 166cm height but still struggled on the freeway so I sold it to look at the perfect dual sport bike for my height, what I am thinking is a drz400e or a dr650, or even better if yamaha would make an xt400 with a sub 800mm seat height, I did look at the triumph tiger xrx low with a seat height of 760mm but a whopping weight makes it even harder to control off road
It sounds like we're in the same boat. For an offroad bike I would love to have the XTrainer, it's on my dream bike list! My next bike, for longer trips, will probably be a DR650 since it can be lowered easily. The big adventure bikes are just a bit more than I want to handle...
I just really wish you would keep your hand on the handlebar !!
Update: Kawasaki just released the klx230 with a lower seat height. Suspension travel was sacrificed to lower the bike but that's what you get when you compromise...
I have an XT250 and really love that bike but the low acceleration and limited top end really get to me.
I want them to make an XT250 with a lighter aluminum frame, the engine from a DRZ-400 but fuel injected, and the front forks off a Honda CRF-450r. I think a bike like that would really rip. You could go just about anywhere with something like that. I’m 5’7 and can’t deal with the ridiculous seat heights of the newer bikes but I want something high performing.
Sounds like we're in the same boat, along with a number of commenters. Give us something more but without the crazy high seat heights!
I have the fuel injected 2019 XT250 supposedly rated at 19 hp, ( increased slightly over the past few years, again supposedly ) on the street it certainly doesn't rip, but in more serious dirt riding it does far better than I imagined it would especially if you install the 14T CS sprocket. What I've noticed is that it's front end heavy. It wants to stay planted to the ground due to the weight distribution. That's fine for some riders but I miss blipping the throttle and lifting the front wheel over obstacles. Over jumps it's tough to keep the front wheel slightly higher than the rear. It is however, for that very reason a good hill climber. I'm beginning to think the solution is 2 bikes for the more serious dirt rider. If you aren't that serious it should be just fine, although 4 or 5 more hp with the same engine characteristics would be most welcome. Gravel roads, powerline trails, pipelines ( all if allowed of course ) are a lot of fun on this bike..
I would love a bike like you are thinking about! You need to come to the North West and ride !
I would love to ride in the North West! Whereabouts are you? 20 years ago I did some mountain biking on Mt. Hood and absolutely fell in love with the Columbia River Gorge. The Pac Northwest is on my bucket list, for sure.
I've ridden the hell out of a 150F those wheel sizes aren't really a big issue unless you're in big rocks, and then you'd need under belly clearance and such.
Sorry to tell you, but unless you're going to modify an XT there won't be anything like that built because most short people either learn to ride full height bikes (like my buddy who's under 5'5" and he rips on a KTM 525EXC since he was an inch or two shorter at 16 buying the bike for cash he earned busting his ass), or they don't want a full capability bike and are generally content with the XT250 or TW200 to put around on trails.
Right on, Joseph. I absolutely loved my CRF150F and even raced it a few times in hare scrambles against the bigger bikes. I wasn't running anywhere near the front but had an absolute blast riding around back in the pack. And, unfortunately, you're right that the manufacturers don't feel motivated to make a shorter, more capable dual sport. But I'll keep laying out the case for one, just hoping...
Sounds like you want a crf300L 'short'. And I agree something like that should be made. $8k is waaaay too much for it though. $6k max.
You can really beef up the bottom end with a pumper carb and high compression piston. Racetech can get rid of most of your suspension woes. A fork brace will really help the stability and handling.
Thanks, This Guy Rides! I'm getting really close on getting the Cogent Dynamics suspension mods - they sell their complete adjustable rear shock and fork emulators/springs (like Racetech) for around $1000, total. Pennsylvania Dual Sports is really selling me on them (they've done three of his bikes) and it seems like that would give a great base, chassis-wise. The fork brace sounds great, too, and would really help out the smaller diameter forks. TBH, I've been hesitant to mod the engine much, though, because of the way I ride - lots of road riding to get to the trails, great gas mileage, just hop on and ride with little to no fiddling or tuning time. For example, in areas of rural Ohio where I ride you can only buy 87 octane gas, nothing higher, so the stock compression makes sense for that type of riding, just to keep things simple. If I ever lucked into a second XT225 for a good price then I'd love to play around with the engine more, starting with the carb, cam, etc.
I get you on the piston concerns
The pumper carb will really boost the bottom end. Th cv style carbs have a hard time off road in rough terrain, especially on the bottom end. Helps reduce stalling as well.
the only brand that comes into my mind That makes high-performance dirt bikes and really cares about short riders is BETA, all the models come with indicators headlights, etc so they can be registered for road use, the Xtrainer is also a wonderful trial machine but unfortunately, it comes only as a two-stroke. but a DR200 TW200 XT250 And even a VanVan200 are more than adequate for dual sporting, they are so reliable and fuss-free and they can go everywhere. it's all about the rider, Yes having more power is always nice but sometimes less can be way more.
Love the commentary and great points. I’m 5’11” but on uneven ground many bikes are just so tall I have to pick my line and approach things to suit the height of the bike. On some trails my TW225 (yes 225) is way better than my DRZ400. Here in England we have lots of slow difficult trails ( called Green Lanes here) and I just don’t use the power of a 400/450.
Thanks, Irish Flyer! We never got the TW225 here in the states but I'd love to give one a go. I've ridden a DRZ400 on a couple of occasions and it's a great bike but, as you've said, for the slow, difficult stuff there's nothing like a little bike with a torquey engine.
when we’re young riders we all want to keep upgrading to bigger and bigger bikes but later on we see the joy and simplicity of a small light bike where I think the 200 to 250 are great. Keep making great videos.
5'3" and totally feel your pain! Current bike is a TTR230 with a 34" seat that I can just barely tiptoe! 🤏
I put a rotopax knock off on the back of my DRZ rear rack...I have a video about it if you care to look...It adds 1.3 gallons extra.
Yeah, I'll definitely check it out! Sounds like a great compromise for the occasional need.
@@jimmytmoto What do you use to edit your videos? I just use a phone app but am looking for a more professional and powerful editing program...
Honda released a CRF300LS last year. Seat height is 32.7 inches which puts it on par with the XT250. Have you taken a look?
I love my XT250
I since one coming next year. 5’6
Most mfg only target 6' tall crowds which is extremely competitive. The market for shorter group is almost 3X larger (1/2 men + all women). I got money but I can't buy anything. The only mfg that considered shorter riders (high end bikes) are BMW and Triumph. However, those are adventure bikes, not light weight dual-sport.
Wouldn't it be great to sit with the manufacturers for a bit and just ask them why they don't address this overlooked market? Especially the Japanese manufacturers, where the average rider is surely even shorter. It's interesting you mention BMW and Triumph. I've looked at the specs on some adventure bikes that sound doable as far as seat height and then I realize the seats are so wide that I'd need longer legs, anyway. Like you, my money is staying in my pocket until someone makes another bike I really want!
You either need to stick to a DR650 lowered and modified or spend $10k 👍 go with a lowered Ténéré 700 or a KTM 790 adventure S. A Honda cb500x is the smallest motor you can really call good enough for trips. Anything smaller than a 500cc and it's just gonna be a trail bike. People now want bikes for adventure riding. Gonna have at least a 500 cc motor
Really enjoyed this vid! And some very beautiful scenery to boot! Subscribed! Honda is going to build a CRF300L, lower seat height and lighter weight than the current CRF250L !!! BUT.....................NOT releasing it in the USA for now. Damn them! LOL I have called and written (both handwritten letters and e-mails) to Honda USA several times since 2014 practically BEGGING them to bring back the CRF230L that I miss so much! AND, to build a CRF300L ! What do we get instead? A stupid barrage of little slow woefully underpowered 125cc bikes! Come on Honda! Reeaaallllllyyyyy??????? Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
You would think looking at the comments here and other videos that I have watched that there would definitely be a market for a mid level higher quality dual sport for the vertically challenged. Not that the xt250 isn't a good bike, I am probably getting one myself in the next year simply because I would have to wear platform shoes with anything else, but I'd pay more for something with a bit more power, better suspension, ect...
At 6 feet tall, I want the 34.8 inch seat height on the KLX, 31.9 on the XT is to squatty for me...
At that height you could pretty much pick what you want... Certainly not limited to the KLX. DRZ might be an option as well.
I understand what you mean. I don't have it as bad as you, I'm 5' 8" the national average and I would have to buy a Kawasaki or Suzuki dual sport. The Honda's and Yamaha's are to tall for me! So there cutting out the national average customers right there. They do need to calm things down a bit.
Well said..."they need to calm things down a bit." I heard an interview recently where mountain bikers are surprised that dirt bikes are sold 'as one size fits all,' because the same model mtn bike frames are available in all different sizes. It's a simple observation and there might be something to learn there. I realize motorcycles have a lot of different considerations but, like you said, they aren't even building for the national average, necessarily!
@@jimmytmoto Well at least two of the big four aren't that's better sales for Kawasaki and Suzuki I guess. LOL.
Yall are right, it's like they think they are selling to a Sasquatch market. I hate having to slide a cheek off the seat and only being able to get one foot planted on the ground
I love the bike but for me I love the tractor torque of the Suzuki DRZ 400...But I am an average height. I have been riding since the 70's and have all sorts of bikes, off and on road. I have the most fun on my DRZ...Just so torquey ....But yeah, you have to be of average height....Like to ride with you sometime...I'm in Illinois.
I totally get why you love the DRZ. That's what I'd really like to have a bit more of, that torque and the ability to just throttle control through, up, over, and around anything. And it sounds like we probably started riding around the same time! I'll look you up if I'm ever headed that way...what part of Illinois are you in?
@@jimmytmoto I'm in Galesburg, Illinois. Kinda North West Illinois
Thoughts on finding an early 90s xt350 in good shape? I had a chance to buy one but hesitated due to its age and being a completely green rider
Of course the bike you’re talking about could be built, they just can’t make enough money on it. Not that many potential buyers want what we want.
KLX300sm change the rims out.
I'm 5'9" and just purchased a 04' Honda XR650L and the bike is too tall so I bought a PSR 1.75" lower link. Will that be enough so I can set me short legged feets upon the ground?
Hey Shawn, I've ridden an XR650L and that's a TALL bike. It all really depends on your inseam. You'll also want to balance the front suspension height with the lowered rear by raising the forks in the triple clamps some (which drops the front end). The next step would be a lower seat. I have a full video on "how I lowered my dual sport motorcycle", give it a search and hopefully that can help. Good luck!
right I am looking for a new dual-sport after selling our xr650l. That bike was too heavy to ride on slow trails through the woods or even in wet ditches. Thinking the xt225 is best or something similar. Im finding it is difficult to find what i want so im deciding what the best platform will be to customize what i want on my bike. Mods can help a lot but you need the right engine and frame
It seems like dual sports haven't had any innovation. Sure honda did some tuning and put lights and mirrors on their 400 and 650 but those are of the 37 inch category. If one of the japanese manufacturers were to make a sub 33.5 inch dual sport with 300cc or more that would be awesome but just not sure who would do it. The segment seems to have its set of bikes that no one cares to update to meet emmision standards. They are trying to replace traditional dual sports with bikes like the Tenere and Versys 300 and their efficient street engines.
Very insightful and 100% agreed. They say that dual sports are the fastest growing segment in motorcycling right now but, like you said, we're getting new models like the CRF450L where they take the offroad bike, choke it for emissions, and put it on the showroom floor. Or they give us warmed over small street bikes and call them adventure bikes. The company that addresses our particular segment will definitely get my money next...but are they out there?
BMW made a 650GS thumper in a few trims, I found it better than the Ducati 400 or a theoretical lifted sr400 as far as feel vs weight.
A guy with the BMW (city?) 650 let me sit on his, and it felt like a big version on my SR250. Bear in mind, I'm 6'2" so I look like a goof on my Exciter. But it was BIGGER.... Not saying it will be "good" off-road, but probably fine for gravel.
Back when I considered an adventure bike the 650GS looked like the way to go (the shorter version for me, probably) but I decided to stick with a dual sport. I think now the F700GS (or something like that) is their "short model"...? I'm definitely wanting to do some tougher trails, though, and even catching a little air now and then. But if I ever decided to travel further distances, that Beemer or maybe a Ducati Scrambler would be the direction I'd look, for sure.
Away you can bore out the xt250??
I’m 4’1 can not find a bike
Do you think a wr250r can be lowered enough to be close to an xt250? I’ve seen lowering seats and links. I’m 5’8 w/ a 31” inseam and am currently on the fence between the two.
I don’t think you could lower the WR250R Down to XT level but I do think you could make it fit your 31 inch inseam just fine. My friend has a WR with a Seat Concepts low seat and a lowering link and I can tiptoe it with both feet and my 28 inch inseam. With a couple more inches to my inseam I would be quite comfortable everywhere on the bike, though I wouldn’t be flat footing it. I hope this helps!
@@jimmytmoto it certainly does. I appreciate the reply. Keep up the good work!
I've been thinking about this for years, and it drives me nuts, because the market could be huge for the right bike. Ideas: air cooled with carb is ideal for simplicity, fuel injection is OK only if they allow it to be adjusted (unlike the XT250), oil cooling would be a nice add. 250 with four valves gives enough power, heavy fly wheel helps tractor-mode grunt performance. 6 gears extreme wide ratio is mandatory. Dual rear shocks can actually be a huge advantage for allowing the packing of lots of weight on the back, without stressing the sub frame, and spares the linkage.
kawasaki.com.au/shop/motorcycles/off-road/stockman-250/
Now give than an aluminum frame to knock some weight off, and make sure the gear ratios are extreme wide, and I say we have a winner.
www.motoajpusa.com/models#/pr4enduro/
These guys have interesting offerings. Nothing quite on point, but it makes me wonder if they would be open minded enough to smell an opportunity.
Ha, our old school upbringing has us wanting the same things, exploder69! Sometimes I just want to get an old Honda XL250 or 350 and bore it out. And I recognize that Kawie Stockman 250! It's basically the old KL250 Super Sherpa, which was a great little bike, plus it could be bored to 300cc with a Bill Blue kit. I"d have to think the Asian and Pacific markets have some other cool, shorter bikes available, given their markets. Hmmm, I might drop a line to AJP and see if anyone's added a dual sport kit to any of their bikes. Thanks!
Jimmy and folks. Your commentary has been on my mind for years. A light weight low seat dual sport Enduro like they had in the late 70s. They sold 1 million DT motorcycles doing that period. Per year! Just Yamaha!! Now they are claiming that all the manufacturers combined barely sell 100,000 units per year of the dual sports. What went wrong???? So......I have two 1981 Suzuki TS 185s. Great bikes and all the low pop you expect. Two-stroke. But please get over the fact it’s not a YZ 125 of our day ( 70-80s, of the power either being on or off. Two strokes of the day or very linear at a very low weight and horsepower ratio).
A Half pop and throttle and the front end comes off of the ground nicely. Makes it wonderful to get it over a log on the trail or a Mud puddle etc... I heard your complaints. I own a KL 250 super Sheba. Which I believe is slightly nicer than your XT225 and performance but very comparable.However my fourth stroke smile or bikes where like running a truck through the woods. Too heavy, and without being able to get the front and off of the ground a few inches when needed was a huge problem. With that said it be great to have something a little more modern. So here’s what I did. I Imported a CRM250R. 1989MK1 CRM 250 R. Never been imported to North America. Had it special imported last fall. 238 pounds.37 hp. and original seat ht. I’d be happy to talk with you or your fellow subscribers. He’s great to go for a ride as well. Keep up the good work
Wow that Stockman is quite a tough bike, I like it!
Where in wva do you live I am from summers county
Shout out to the Mountain State! I'm from farther north and was born in Marion County, grew up in Upshur County, but have lived in Cincinnati, OH for the last 30 years or so.
Agreed , would love a 300dual sport but dont see one🤔
My first regersted bike was a XT250 (1985) LOVED that bike Also rode a mid 1980s XT500 , MAN that bike was GOOD , low 1st but top gear would do 100 miles an hour easly , to bad NOW ONE makes a bike like that anymore 😖
would but one in a heart beat😁😁
keep well ish and ride safe ish Maaate 😁😉🍺
Yeah, I have those same fond remembrances of bikes from the '80s. They were smaller, simpler, less expensive. You have that TTR going well. We had it here in the states but as an offroad model only. I might keep my eyes open for one...Stay well!
@@jimmytmoto you to Sir👍😎
Honda IS going to make a CRF300L. LOWER, LIGHTER, and more powerful than the current CRF250L!!! However...............not releasing it in the USA for the moment. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!
Kawasaki is launching (in the USA!) a KLX300, but it has a 35" seat height! 0_0