Amazing bike, - I had a similar one from the competitor, a Yamaha XT 250 1982. That's the most enjoyable bike I ever had. I was stolen twice and the second time it didn't come back... Hahaha Apparently, other people also liked it ;-)
@@bjarkenielsen8515 I feel you, all 3 of my XL250 were stolen, the last one did not come back the third time. Fast forward 30 years till i got another, even if it was more than 3x the price of my old ones.
Yep, I can't believe these fools are going for KTM 690 pigs and the like. Those are not "dual sports" but a road bike with dangerous quazi knob tires and are now called "adventure bikes", totally worthless offroad.
I have the Honda CRF450L - utterly love it. Yes it needs the upgraded ECU - and seat - but just those changes alone totally transform this bike to a weapon both off and on-road. The oil changes are not really a problem, it takes only 1.15 Litres and less than 10 mins to do with an easy change tool. I do mine religiously every 1000-1100 km and each time the oil is nearly as clear as when it was put in. To put this into perspective, a 2000km trip only needs 1 oil change midway... Not a deal breaker in my eyes. I also fitted a larger tank (as I generally do longer day rides) and easily get over 200km per ride. It sits comfortably all day at 120kmh if needed. Great bike.
I love the crf450 but I can’t be bothered for 1k oil changes. Currently have the 300l and that thing is virtually maintenance free 😂 not close to 450 performance though
Could not agree more. I have a rack with a bag and small Jerry can attached. Don't want to change the tank. Bark Busters, seat and ECU... good to go. The suspension is extremely good and it's so nice to have 100 Kilograms less to pick up offroad.
Every time these range of bikes come up on my radar, which to be fair is quite often, I ask the same question ❓. Why hasn't Suzuki brought out a new DRZ400 & why hasn't Honda solved the service intervals and made a CRF450 rally?. More than a few of us are fed up with over sized, overweight, over powered & seriously overpriced adventure bikes and dream of something more usable. I humbly predict Royal Enfield will sell millions of the new Himalayan 450 in spite of it being 20 kilos overweight & not the most handsome bike you'll find about.
@@SWTrailsAndWheels whilst the Kove 450 is a really exciting bike , unless you plan to go race a rally it's just a weekend weapon to have fun on. It's too high strung to be a good high mileage adventure bike. It is an all-out race bike and there's plenty of proud new owners with RUclips channels who've recently discovered exactly that. The RE Himalayan 450 is almost spot on except it's reported wet weight of 196 kg means it's at least 20 kg overweight. We still have a time to wait on wether a healthy aftermarket parts diet can correct some of that ?. It'll come standard with a centre stand likely weighing in at 4 to 5kgs so there's a start ?.
I know a guy who has had multiple issues with his Himalayan. The quality is just not there. Not sure why there is not 450 rally. The drz400 update would require a new design from the ground up to meet modern emissions standards as it would lose its grandfathered status. That will likely jack up the price by multiple grand.
Xt250, Dr250, klx230, ktm350f, xr650l, there’s so many dual sports, and I like all of them. I just love dual sports, I think they’re the coolest of all motorcycles. I have a 300l Rally, and after a few obvious upgrades, it’s perfect for me.
@@TG3XTREME if that’s the kind of miles you are doing then yeh it’s prob not for you. Either is the seat and vibes. In fact an adventure bike might be your best option there. If all you’re doing is country miles then expect to be changing oil every 2500-3000kms.
You guys have this oil change thing wrong. The 500 owners manual is basicaly pulled from the 450 race bikes. If you are holding the bike at high rpms for 30 minute motos constantly then yeah, do oil changes frequently. If your riding it like a dualsport and out adventuring without keeping it WFO, then the oil changes can be spaced farther apart. Common sense goes a long way here. I took my 500 on a 1000 mile BDR trip with extra pavement sections and it didnt sef destruct or hurt it in anyway. Most of these 500s will tell you when they want an oil change tat you can notice in the shifting as the oil is starting to break down.
Solid, I ride the mighty ct110 postie off road, now in my 60's, rode mx and enduro in my 20's , have had so much fun riding this bike. I have other bikes but the postie gives me miles of smiles 😊
Great review. I’ve bought a 2019 690 with a lot of sensible farkles and rode it in the US last week with decent luggage capacity and additional fuel tank. Light (I’m from adventure bikes), superb suspension (so much better than my old DRZ) and massive low and mid range grunt. It kept up easily with a Tiger 900, It’s a high quality bike in all ways. Next year it will be my bike for 4,000 miles in the US and last week proved it (and me) are up for it. One day of 9 hours and 250 miles proved it’s worth. We’ll video our progress and bore you with it in May next year……..
sold my 2016 a few years back. Will be buying another next desert season. No bike out there is as versatile with just minor mods. As to price, totally worth it for what it can do!
My take away is either the CRF300 or DRZ400. My DRZ zips along on the tarmac quite well. Sure, it pulls some high revs, but it’s a tough little bugger. Low 300 pound weight and adjustable suspension make this bike a winner, if a bit dated. There IS a reason this bike is so popular!!!
I've heard that the CRF and DR.Z aren't even in the same ballpark when it comes to suspension, power, and performance. If you gear the DR.Z with 16/39 sprockets, I bet it will be as good on the highway as the CRF, but loads better everywhere else.
No disagreements... I miss my DRZ 400e and believe that the Suzuki 650DR is the all around best compromise for $treet/Dirt versatility and cost over time. Good video 💯
Hey Solid, good list. FYI the 450L fuelling issues can be fixed for about $25. The throttle issue is the 100% fuel cut on decel. Solder a 560 Ohm resistor on the coolant temp sensor making the bike think it's cold disabling the fuel cut. Since that makes the fan not turn on when required put a NiceCNC thermostatic switch inline in the coolant hose to ground/run the fan. PITA mod but effective and cheap. Bike still needs a seat, tank and flywheel weight but those are personal preference mods.
Dual sport doesn’t always mean flat land and unskilled rider. If you are serious, there really are only the KTM/ Husky 500/501 and Beta 500 to consider. When riding the mountains light weight, prodigious power, and top quality suspension are very important qualities. Most of the bikes you listed are fine for the easy routes. The three qualities mentioned come standard on KTM/ Husky/ Beta, and are the reason these bikes cost more. You get what you pay for. As to reliability, I have put 11,000 miles on a 501 without needing to adjust the valves. An oil change every 1000 miles takes 10 minutes. If you want to improve you skills and be a serious rider, get a serious bike.
Yes a crf 300 l for me…with the yss rear shock and improved front suspension I got a good all round bike for just 850 euro more.Use it 90 % off-road so do not have to worry about highway use that much.I do load it up for short moto camping trips and I can not see a problem in doing 6-700 km tarmac a day.
@@altayturkmen merhaba Altay.. Loving it, been a great bike so far. Apart from the kick stand kill switch dying on me in the mountains, it's been a fun bike.
I bought a '22 CRF450RL 2 years ago. Added a 5 gal. Nomad tank, Vortech ECU, rear rack with Mosco luggage, a Seat Concepts seat, and put 8000 miles on it on a trip through the US southwest in the summer of '22, starting from Mt Shasta in N California and going from foot-deep silt @ Moon Rocks near Reno NV to Moab UT Via US highway 50 @75+ MPH and mid summer Mojave 109 degree days, this machine did it all with zero complaints/issues. I did change the oil @ 1200 mile intervals. Still riding the pee out of it in the Northern CA mountains and I think the 450 is a better all-around machine, (even including the price) than the 300, considering it already has primo, fully adjustable suspension, nearly double the power, all aluminum frame, is made in Japan and weighs 30-40 lbs LESS than the 300. To quibble about the maintenance is ridiculous IMNSHO!
So glad you mention the KTM 690. I have one and love it. It's a bike you seem always to skip. (But, yes, to set it up to travel, it's becomes very heavy on the wallet!)
Godd choices with 2 Suzis on the list. They have well earned their place in Dual Sport history with low maintenance, high reliability and great performance overall.
I really dream of some new mixture between the DRZ and DR 650 ❤ If Suzuki creates a successor with 6 speeds, FI and some boost in the power…it’s going to smash all the competition for another 30 years.
@@lyubengeorgiev1751 And with FI, the can tune the bike from factory to meet emissions, but aftermarket can release the real potential. But my own preference is carb. Simpler. Needs no electric, no pump. Too simple to break on the ride. I know the world thinks you have to have FI, but I can do without. Hell, I'd choose 650 air cooling over water cooled. No radiator to break. But the 6th gear would be the bomb.
@@scottrussell6646 here in Europe there is no chance with the emissions…carb is gone long ago and we can’t get KLR 650 or DR 650 since almost 20 years 😒 and there is one good thing about the FI - the rapid altitude change when passing mountain ranges. With all the ups and downs, you really notice the difference with the carb as you don’t adjust anything, just twist the throttle.
I agree with placing the 300l near the top of the list. Until recently I did all my adventures on my awesome old suzuki sp250 but it just didnt have that 6th gear for the highway. Slightly more capable off road than my current 300l but not by much. The 300 is an amazing adventure bike and I am so glad I finally bought one. Its been a blast, plus it easily holds all my gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.)
It's amazing how a 30 year old design still makes these types of lists, just proving how good it is. I love my DR650. It has the largest aftermarket of any bike ever and you can turn it into whatever you want. Mine is very dirt biased.
Just got done with a nice loop in the Gifford National Forest here in Washington on my trusty 09 BMW 450x, I bought used 10 years ago. Just broke 20,000km and has been on all kinds of trails and roads. Been very reliable so far! Great to see all the options out there that are affordable and look fun to ride.
I've owned a DRZ400s, KTM690 and now a KTM 500. I've also ridden several DR650's a CRF300L, and a CRF450L. It's kind of a shame you didn't mention the KTM 500 because it's far and away the best "dual sport" bike in my opinion. It does everything well, gets great gas mileage, can have easily 1000mile oil change intervals. It can be outfitted to be lightweight adventure, or a single track ripper. The CRF450L gets close, but falls a bit short in the ECU department and aftermarket department. 2 years ago I grabbed my 2015 500 exc for $6k used and it's way better than any of the other bikes on this list IMO.
Is the Honda XR650L not available down under? That is the original Pig, including earlier incarnations. The KTM 520/525 EXC etc are worth a mention too.
Love for EFI bikes. Sure if you know how to work on carbs, that can be done on the side of the trail. But with EFI, you get the “it just works” factor. Which really comes into play when your adventures take you to altitude and temperature extremes.
I've never owned a fuel injected bike, and I've never had elevation problems. I take my Dr.Z from sea level to over 6000 feet every week, and there's never been a loss of power or performance.
I call BS on that. When I took my CBR (fuel injected) to Utah it lost so much power I couldn’t clutch up 3rd gear which is no problem in TN. When I got home after 5 months out west I pulled it off the trailer and went to the store and got sideways pulling out of my apartment riding like I was in a higher elevation
Great video…. Only surprise was not mentioning a KTM 350/500 EXC likely price related and curious that fuel injection and liquid cooling wasn’t a comment on some of the bikes… i am considering one of these bikes and love the decision process… wish I could ride them all…
I'm really liking my 23 690 enduro r, upgraded from the crf250l just 2 weeks ago. The upgrade in power is finally very welcome after riding around on the 250l for 6 years.
Have a 300L and 450RL and love em. The 690/701 was going to be my next bigger bike but ended up with Norden. If I could only have one bike it’d be a 701. Great video Cheers
Thanks for a fact filled video on this genre. I had six bikes registered & on-road simultaneously, only because they were all so unique to eachother & each had me giggling inside my helmet when I rode them. The two that came closest to this category were the Kawasaki KLR-650 & the Kawasaki Versys 650. Obviously the Versys was the best on-road bike with more cylinders, torque & horsepower. Additionally there was the Gl-1800, Triumph Rocket III 2300 cc 3 cylinder, Suzuki 1250 Bandit & the Honda PS-250 Big Ruckus scooter, which would do 70 mph & 70 mpg ( just not at the same time ) lol. I'm 73 now & have reduced my "stable" down to the Bandit for my sport touring bike & the 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber 1200 cc parallel twin high torque. So far, I can't find anything wrong with two 1200's to satisfy my "need for speed". There's no replacement for displacement!
I think I'd have the KLX300 over the Honda. And I just can't get on board with the CRF450. The service intervals are stupid for a dual sport. I guess if performance is your priority, it's a good choice, but I was something I can ride every day.
I went from a KLX300 to the CRF450L. The published service intervals are if you're racing. I've taken my CRF450L on a 1000+ mile ride and the oil still looked okay afterward. It was an expensive bike to purchase and then to have to immediately change the seat and ECU, but once those mods were done, no comparison. The extra maintenance is easy and the extra performance, everywhere, is well worth it. At least to me.
The CRF450 has a racing engine. Completely different than a 450cc version of a KLX300/300L engine. As jwaller1327 said, if not racing, the 450RL can go farther between intervals than the manual says- especially if using premium synthetic oil. I personally like the DR650, which is very easy to maintain and repair.
One big bore bike that really does it for me is my SW Motech kitted Husqvarna TR650 Terra. Unfortunately short lived after KTM took them over. Better off-road and 10 more HP than a BMW F650GS Dakar. Did a 2000 mile adventure trip with all camping gear. And off road enduro rides in between. The SWM 650 Superdual X was also right there. It’s a shame no one has built a big single anything as flexible and comfortable to do it all like these bikes.
AJP PR7...It uses the same engine as the Husky, built by SWM in the same factory. The AJP chassis design, combined with the ZF Sachs suspension, makes a bike that handles like a dream off road while having plenty of power and comfort for the highway. I love mine.
Love the video! Started out with a Honda 90 Trail in 1971! So good to see the 125 revival! This video motivated me to look at the 701. Also LOL on the butt scooter clip. Thank you.
I had to ride a 300L yesterday for 300 miles in the desert without enough warm clothing and I tell ya, bout killed me. 12 straight hours of, go, pull over, warm up, go.
Hey Solid,another great video. Thats a solid (no pun intended) list of bikes, I'm surprised that Suzuki hasn't come up with a new version of the 400, liquid cooled and EFI would have people throwing money at all dealerships and Honda, make the 450l a true duelsport, get the maintenance intervals spread and they will kill it. Cheers from Florida mate.
Thanks Mike. I am not sure if the manufacturers are too tightly governed by marketing or they are just so far removed from the people they sell too that they have lost touch with what people want. Or maybe they have gotten so big as companies they are just too risk adverse🤷♂️
drz400 is liquid cooled, the reason they don't put efi on it is then the bike would have to pass emissions again which would mean a whole redesign of the bike. they just aren't going to do that when they sell every one they can make. over a decade ago suzuki put efi on the ltz400 quad which had the drz motor so it's not as if it's development, cost or manufacturing issue.
This is a VERY well put together list and great explanation, It's even got a CT125 in it!. I kind of want a dual sport as my next now... Maybe the CRF450L
I’m kind of blown away at the choices, they’re all beginner bikes. The 690 was the only KTM mention. KTM has an entire line of exc bikes, and a line of xc-w bikes. Both lines have 2-stroke and 4-stroke options in multiple displacements. Then there is Beta, Sherco, TM, and more. This list is a beginner friendly list, not a most versatile list
Went one tooth bigger on the front sprocket (Japan has a SM version of the bike - Serow), a Delkavic pipe (not crazy loud), bashplate and a Maddog seat cover and she is good for 110kmh on the tar (95kmh is nicer) and absolutely fine on dirt. Awesome fuel economy no large tank required.
Yes the xt250. Which brings up one issue with the video which is otherwise very well done. No mention of the needs of female dual sport/adv riders. Many female riders struggle with the seat heights of many of these bikes... Enter the xt250. My wife at 68 has done some challenging adv rides in the Western US on hers. Super reliable, I got her seat height to 31" w/o screwing up the suspension.
I went with the 2024 klx300. Was going to go Honda, my usual, but found a Klx for $700 less then the Honda and could not pass it up. Love this bike so far. Coming from a heavier bike I fell like I can throw this thing around all day. I even feel comfortable on the highways of San Diego.
I wish Suzuki would bring out an ADV version of the DR400 with a windscreen, TFT dash, 6th gear, bigger tank and better seat for all day road riding. It would thrash the CRF300 Rally.
Forgot to mention KOVE 450 RALLY? It' s got all: great suspension,power,long service intervals, low weight,incredible range and low price, comfort on tarmac and agility offroad.
Great video sir as always... There is an optional choice to the CRF300 that does not need the rear shock and spring as well as the front springs replaced. Just buy a KTX300 and save $2000.00 on the suspension upgrades... Keep up the good work sir... :)
@@ozarksbackroads5484 300L here, I did my rear shock and front spring/oil upgrade for 600 usd. Bike cost $5k with all taxes. My bike has ABS, a screen with gear indicator, fuel gage, slipper clutch and all the aftermarket support. KLX lost the fight before it even started.
My wr250r lugs quite well actually but I do have a megabomb header and an FMF pipe and I was able to get it tuned spot-on. I can lug all day long and go up steep climbs at low RPMs. My new Kove 450 rally is definitely in another League above it. Talk about versatility! And then my t7 is the ultimate for the longer Open Road trips with ability to go a lot of places
That's just it. There is no do it all bike. Like shoes and handbags for women, men have to realize: Work hard and buy multiple bikes. I'd love to try a Kove 450,...or a AJP PR7 for that matter. Kove seems really good 🤘🤘
@@christiangrendel9893 I put about 150 miles on my Kove 450 rally over the last 2 days. The bike is better than I expected, and my expectations were high. I've been riding single track with a fair amount of elevation changes. Beat up Jeep roads, fast and flowing fire roads along with twisty pavement and fast Interstate. Very versatile and super fun motorcycle!
For the Honda CRF 450L you can get an after market side cover that increases the oil capacity by 400ml. Love the dual sport motorcycles. Keep the vids coming.
Brilliant video mate, well researched, informative and bloody entertaining. I'm torn between the CRF450 and KTM690, so was great to trip across your comparison.
XT660R perhaps? I have the Z and use it mainly for offroad. Great bike if you don't mind the height / weight. Definitely more in the adventure category though
My list would probably be very similar. I have owned the CRF300L and currently own the 450RL. Both are great bikes. I’ve got to get a comfort seat for the 450, because as it is now, it’s like sitting on a board. I’d like to eventually get a KTM 690 or a Husky 701. I think I like the look of the 701 a little better. Good list!
@@MrNaxen There are quite a few of the high milage ones on the market in Australia, but usually with this bike, one of 2 things happen. People buy them and decide they aren't for them, or don't get used, and are sold with low milage, or people keep them forever and ride them into the ground. Especially as they haven't changed radically over the years. In the group forums, people talk about getting 100k km's out of them. I know guys that are well past 50k on them, and still going strong. The key with KTM's is to maintain them properly.
@@jackiemoon7559 I think the 300L is absolutely worth the money. It is a great bike, but you have to understand what it is. It’s not super-powerful, the suspension is really soft, the seat could be more comfortable…but it is light and maneuverable, it is very easy to ride on the road, on gravel, on some simple single-track type stuff. Check out Woodzman Adventures here on RUclips for lots of good 300L content.
Noice! Do you enjoy the 450 more over the 300l. I currently own the 300l.. great little bike, but is it worth spending the money on it to get more out of it I.e, suspension engine, or just upgrade to the 450 and call it good?
I agree that those at some of the bikes, but I was missing the exc 500, the AJP PR7, KOVE 450, fantic 450... I bellive those could have been put in to the mix as well :-) Maybe get a hold of some experienced AJP pr7 owners that know the fixes that have been addressed in newer bikes over the earlier models :-)
Another great video. Great choices you made in it to. Rode a honda 250l for over 12,000 miles. Then upgraded to the ktm.690 r. Honda did a great upgrade with the 300l. The Hondas are like tanks they do everything and keep on going it was just the low power and soft suspension that I didn't like. Loving my ktm 690 now and for sure is one I will ride for awhile now.
I was very much able to predict all but the CT and then wr on this list. One thing is for sure, Honda and Suzuki have a huge presence in our worlds. I do wish the KTM would be a little bit less expensive but honestly I've ridden a 690 and it's too much bike for me at my Skil level. I'll keep on blasting down trails on my drz and be stupid happy while doing it!
This is a great list, that I think there may be changes to in the near future. If the Kove proves to be both reliable and popular, it will give the Honda 450 a run for its money. If the suspension on the Himalayan 450 proves to be either good or easily upgraded, it will fit on the list at the ADV end. If KTM had finished their 400 or 500cc twin they would have owned the premium/performance section of this list, except maybe for weight and width. I am curious why you didn’t put one of the EXC bikes or a Beta on this list? I have never actually owned one, but the guys I ride with who have them, love them. Service intervals are definitely an issue, but no more so than on the Honda 450. Hope all is well and looking forward to progress on the garage. Cheers!
I chose the 450L over the EXC's because the Honda's motor is less like a paint shaker on the open road. It also has some small concessions to keeping engine noise low with some sound deadening features so its a bit easier on the ears. I talk about the virtues of the EXC's and Beta's as ultra light adventure bikes in a previous vid all about them👍
I will back Solid up on the EXC's. Riding my buddy's 2023 500 EXC 6 days the vibration coming through the seat was not acceptable. Better dirt bike potentially but unacceptable for dual sport use IMO. Another buddy's older 500 EXC (2013?) only vibrated slightly more than my 450L and was fine.
@@mikeisland7382still I wonder to what extent that can be sorted by a suitable aftermarket seat. In my experience the discomfort suffered on a exc is only marginally worse than on the 690.
@@miro_sI rebuilt my seat and it’s no worse than riding a DR. You can feel vibes if you push hard on the pegs at highway speed but but you don’t ride like that. So much I’ll informed talk re the 500, especially “daily” oil changes.
@@miro_s Greetings! I have a 2020 KTM 690 enduro r. Since 2019, the 690’s are extensively upgraded. Twin counter balancing shafts that really smooth out the ride. I also have a heavily modified 2017 Suzuki DR 650 that I have enjoyed. The performance differences are extreme. I will keep my DR just in case the 690 is in the shop. Hahahahaha
I'm a PO of the portly KLR🐷. I enjoyed it for a year,, but touring it was frustrating. The KTM is nice if you have deep poskets. But I'd seriously lean on the DR Bush Pig for a multi purpose Duel Sport. Jmho. Cheers 🍻,, G. In beautiful Boulder City Nv. USA 🇺🇸
I’m looking at a 300 Rally or KTM500… what would you recommend? I plan to tow the bike to most places like the Victorian high country for multi day rides
i mean, its its pure single and double tracks the 300 for more technical stuff but the 500 would do them no worries and be a lot more fun on more open stuff. sooo much versatility with the 500, best bank for buck in its category i recon @@bilal3827
More on the Gas Gas 700 as orange hurts my eyes & makes me think of Florida.... whereas Red makes me think of Ferraris and Honda 600's. All kidding aside love your show big time and "solid" reviews. Seriously when you consider how hard the Hondas are to get anyway and the suspension work they need and if you're over 250 lbs naked then you need more power right? Thanks! John from SoCal
perfect list...we´ve got crf300rally,crf450l and ktm690 ihe garage...think we went for the all new ones...but will probably sell the crf300rally..the 450l is just too good
I'm curious if there were any consideration given to any of the Husqvarna big bore machines? I'm guessing they would be more closely comparable to the KTM big bore machines in most every aspect?
Hi Solid, there is a rumour that Honda is going to re release the crf450rl back in Australia. Few youtube videos are up saying that it will be as soon as October november 2023. Can you please investigate? This would be an ideal bike for me❤
Talked about this two months ago in ADV NEWS mate. I have been told its a strong possibility by people I trust. Remember there is no such thing as certainty until Honda themselves confirm.
Fit a Fuel Dongle from Rex at Fuel Torque in QLD. It will revolutionise the bottom end; no stalling and huge grunt from idle. Best thing I ever did to my Euro 5 690. $250 well spent.
@morganpyner hi. Thanks for the reply. I actually removed a fuel dongle the previous owner put on, it made the bike bog down on about 30% throttle coming out of corners, I figured I couldn't deal with that and opted for the Rough bottom end. You have personal experience with this Tex dongle? Mines a 2019 model if that makes any difference
Let’s hope Ducati makes a single cylinder version of the desert X out of their new for 2024 hypermotard 650 single! Keep it light on electronics and thereby less expensive I’d be all in!
Been happy with my klx300, but if something at 400 ccs or so came out that was similar, I'm ashamed to say id dump her for it. Still waiting for that unicorn dual sport, but they are getting close.
Excellent video. A shout out to the shorter riders who want to enjoy the scenery on their adventure. The CT125, of course, but the CT110 had the Hi-Lo transmission. TW200, XT225 6spd, KL250 Sherpa, DR350 6spd(!), and post '95 DR650 lowered. I'm a believer in following God's categories: 125cc, 250cc, 350cc, 450cc, and 650cc. For example, the CRF300 weighs as much as the 350 class but lacks its torque; while giving up the lightweight and lower seat heights of some 250cc. The DRZ400, super star that it is, cannot beat the CRF450, while losing the lower seat height and wide range 6spd transmission of the DR350.
Another great option right now is a KTM 450 EXC. You can find em cheap, they're legal, and they're great off road. Thay can also cruise at 65 no problem, and they're dirt bike light. 6 speed, easy valve adjustment, and they're classified as MC so you can eeaisly hrow a plate on it. I just grabbed one for $2500 with low hours and miles, it runs great and it's everything I wanted my DRZ 400 to be at close to half the price used. I think it's a great option for someone on a budget, to dip your toes into dual sport if you already know how to ride (dirt or street), or for a second bike if you already have something more road or trail oriented.
This is so true 18mths ago I bought a 2016 AT the bike is awesome on road and off road but it's so hard to learn to ride off road on a big bike. I'm about to buy a smaller bike to speed up my learning curve
DR650 dry weight is more like 147 kg than your listed 166 kg. Also the CRF450RL ‘service interval’ of 1000 km is really just for oil changes. Valve check is 3000 km and major service interval is 32,000 km which is really good.
My brothe & I had a 1964 Honda Sport 90 (S90) back around 1969 we were 12-13yrs, before that we had a Honda 50cc step-through & a similar Yamaha V75, a Suzuki TC90 with 100cc MX barrel & pipe. Of course destroyed them, or tried. And then in our mid-teens, real bikes. I purchased an almost new Red TS185 & brother soon after a "New" Silver MT125. We were playing with the big boys then. 😁
from empirical experience, an RE Himalayan is excellent for beginners (and shorter people) who seek a workhorse that can tackle both road and light off-road. I'd avoid it if you look for off-road performance and speed, although it's a pretty tough machine that can take a lot of abuse even in very gnarly terrain, where you wouldn't assume it really belongs!
I am going with the CRF 300ls; weight, seat height and reliability are the main factors for me.
Good list. Still riding my 42 year old Honda 250XLS.
Amazing bike, - I had a similar one from the competitor, a Yamaha XT 250 1982. That's the most enjoyable bike I ever had. I was stolen twice and the second time it didn't come back... Hahaha Apparently, other people also liked it ;-)
@@bjarkenielsen8515 I feel you, all 3 of my XL250 were stolen, the last one did not come back the third time. Fast forward 30 years till i got another, even if it was more than 3x the price of my old ones.
I went with the Husky 701 Enduro. Set of Rally pegs and good to go. No regrets.
Suzuki - DRZ250 (the baby 650 with a six speed), DRZ400 and DR650 - what a legendary lineup 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🇦🇺
Yep, I can't believe these fools are going for KTM 690 pigs and the like. Those are not "dual sports" but a road bike with dangerous quazi knob tires and are now called "adventure bikes", totally worthless offroad.
I have the Honda CRF450L - utterly love it. Yes it needs the upgraded ECU - and seat - but just those changes alone totally transform this bike to a weapon both off and on-road. The oil changes are not really a problem, it takes only 1.15 Litres and less than 10 mins to do with an easy change tool. I do mine religiously every 1000-1100 km and each time the oil is nearly as clear as when it was put in. To put this into perspective, a 2000km trip only needs 1 oil change midway... Not a deal breaker in my eyes. I also fitted a larger tank (as I generally do longer day rides) and easily get over 200km per ride. It sits comfortably all day at 120kmh if needed. Great bike.
I love the crf450 but I can’t be bothered for 1k oil changes. Currently have the 300l and that thing is virtually maintenance free 😂 not close to 450 performance though
Could not agree more. I have a rack with a bag and small Jerry can attached. Don't want to change the tank. Bark Busters, seat and ECU... good to go. The suspension is extremely good and it's so nice to have 100 Kilograms less to pick up offroad.
seat is hard
14k n needs twin n stability
husky 701 lr
Every time these range of bikes come up on my radar, which to be fair is quite often, I ask the same question ❓. Why hasn't Suzuki brought out a new DRZ400 & why hasn't Honda solved the service intervals and made a CRF450 rally?. More than a few of us are fed up with over sized, overweight, over powered & seriously overpriced adventure bikes and dream of something more usable. I humbly predict Royal Enfield will sell millions of the new Himalayan 450 in spite of it being 20 kilos overweight & not the most handsome bike you'll find about.
Hard agree
100%
Kove 450
@@SWTrailsAndWheels whilst the Kove 450 is a really exciting bike , unless you plan to go race a rally it's just a weekend weapon to have fun on. It's too high strung to be a good high mileage adventure bike. It is an all-out race bike and there's plenty of proud new owners with RUclips channels who've recently discovered exactly that. The RE Himalayan 450 is almost spot on except it's reported wet weight of 196 kg means it's at least 20 kg overweight. We still have a time to wait on wether a healthy aftermarket parts diet can correct some of that ?. It'll come standard with a centre stand likely weighing in at 4 to 5kgs so there's a start ?.
I know a guy who has had multiple issues with his Himalayan. The quality is just not there. Not sure why there is not 450 rally. The drz400 update would require a new design from the ground up to meet modern emissions standards as it would lose its grandfathered status. That will likely jack up the price by multiple grand.
Xt250, Dr250, klx230, ktm350f, xr650l, there’s so many dual sports, and I like all of them. I just love dual sports, I think they’re the coolest of all motorcycles. I have a 300l Rally, and after a few obvious upgrades, it’s perfect for me.
The xr650l is by far the most reliable. It's a pig, but I swear you can go forever on a tank of gas.
Excf500 is the dual sport king. The only extra maintenance is oil changes and it is on another planet from these bikes for performance.
yeah, some of us plan to ride long several day trips and for that, you're looking at bi-daily oil change
@@TG3XTREME if that’s the kind of miles you are doing then yeh it’s prob not for you. Either is the seat and vibes. In fact an adventure bike might be your best option there. If all you’re doing is country miles then expect to be changing oil every 2500-3000kms.
@@travishimself1973 or drz400 lol best of all worlds. Even the Ktm690 but that’s a good bit more coin
@@TG3XTREME yep both great bikes. I have a wr250r, 1250gsa and the 500. Hard to squeeze the 690/701 into that mix but one day maybe.
You guys have this oil change thing wrong. The 500 owners manual is basicaly pulled from the 450 race bikes. If you are holding the bike at high rpms for 30 minute motos constantly then yeah, do oil changes frequently. If your riding it like a dualsport and out adventuring without keeping it WFO, then the oil changes can be spaced farther apart. Common sense goes a long way here. I took my 500 on a 1000 mile BDR trip with extra pavement sections and it didnt sef destruct or hurt it in anyway. Most of these 500s will tell you when they want an oil change tat you can notice in the shifting as the oil is starting to break down.
Solid, I ride the mighty ct110 postie off road, now in my 60's, rode mx and enduro in my 20's , have had so much fun riding this bike. I have other bikes but the postie gives me miles of smiles 😊
Great review. I’ve bought a 2019 690 with a lot of sensible farkles and rode it in the US last week with decent luggage capacity and additional fuel tank. Light (I’m from adventure bikes), superb suspension (so much better than my old DRZ) and massive low and mid range grunt. It kept up easily with a Tiger 900, It’s a high quality bike in all ways. Next year it will be my bike for 4,000 miles in the US and last week proved it (and me) are up for it. One day of 9 hours and 250 miles proved it’s worth. We’ll video our progress and bore you with it in May next year……..
sold my 2016 a few years back. Will be buying another next desert season. No bike out there is as versatile with just minor mods. As to price, totally worth it for what it can do!
I bought a 300 CRF,LS as I’m a shorter guy and I love it ,I go camping with it
My take away is either the CRF300 or DRZ400. My DRZ zips along on the tarmac quite well. Sure, it pulls some high revs, but it’s a tough little bugger. Low 300 pound weight and adjustable suspension make this bike a winner, if a bit dated. There IS a reason this bike is so popular!!!
@@MrNaxen isn’t a 650 Honda over 450 pounds? My CB500X was 425 at least. Try picking one of those up after a fall.
No, the Honda xr650r is 275 lbs dry.
Must agree, I street legal mine, no one can stay with me street or dirt.
@@MrNaxenthey haven’t made them since 2008.
I've heard that the CRF and DR.Z aren't even in the same ballpark when it comes to suspension, power, and performance. If you gear the DR.Z with 16/39 sprockets, I bet it will be as good on the highway as the CRF, but loads better everywhere else.
No disagreements... I miss my DRZ 400e and believe that the Suzuki 650DR is the all around best compromise for $treet/Dirt versatility and cost over time. Good video 💯
I love my -83 Honda XL600R still to this day as one of the best dual sport bike ever made.
Hey Solid, good list. FYI the 450L fuelling issues can be fixed for about $25. The throttle issue is the 100% fuel cut on decel. Solder a 560 Ohm resistor on the coolant temp sensor making the bike think it's cold disabling the fuel cut. Since that makes the fan not turn on when required put a NiceCNC thermostatic switch inline in the coolant hose to ground/run the fan. PITA mod but effective and cheap. Bike still needs a seat, tank and flywheel weight but those are personal preference mods.
Dual sport doesn’t always mean flat land and unskilled rider. If you are serious, there really are only the KTM/ Husky 500/501 and Beta 500 to consider. When riding the mountains light weight, prodigious power, and top quality suspension are very important qualities. Most of the bikes you listed are fine for the easy routes. The three qualities mentioned come standard on KTM/ Husky/ Beta, and are the reason these bikes cost more. You get what you pay for. As to reliability, I have put 11,000 miles on a 501 without needing to adjust the valves. An oil change every 1000 miles takes 10 minutes. If you want to improve you skills and be a serious rider, get a serious bike.
Thanks for shooting down the stupid arguments against the 500. I’ve had mine for 4 years and nothing will ever better it in the lightweight stakes.
Let's be honest tho. They are enduros with a plate on them.
My husband rode a Husqvarna in the 70 s and is loyal !
Yes a crf 300 l for me…with the yss rear shock and improved front suspension I got a good all round bike for just 850 euro more.Use it 90 % off-road so do not have to worry about highway use that much.I do load it up for short moto camping trips and I can not see a problem in doing 6-700 km tarmac a day.
+1 for the ktm/husky 500/501. The only bike I regret selling!
OK 6 month update, just bought a 690.. Let's see if it regret this 😂
@@Eddie_Turbo so what you think about 690 ? I am also considering to buy one
@@altayturkmen merhaba Altay.. Loving it, been a great bike so far. Apart from the kick stand kill switch dying on me in the mountains, it's been a fun bike.
I bought a '22 CRF450RL 2 years ago. Added a 5 gal. Nomad tank, Vortech ECU, rear rack with Mosco luggage, a Seat Concepts seat, and put 8000 miles on it on a trip through the US southwest in the summer of '22, starting from Mt Shasta in N California and going from foot-deep silt @ Moon Rocks near Reno NV to Moab UT Via US highway 50 @75+ MPH and mid summer Mojave 109 degree days, this machine did it all with zero complaints/issues. I did change the oil @ 1200 mile intervals. Still riding the pee out of it in the Northern CA mountains and I think the 450 is a better all-around machine, (even including the price) than the 300, considering it already has primo, fully adjustable suspension, nearly double the power, all aluminum frame, is made in Japan and weighs 30-40 lbs LESS than the 300. To quibble about the maintenance is ridiculous IMNSHO!
So glad you mention the KTM 690. I have one and love it. It's a bike you seem always to skip. (But, yes, to set it up to travel, it's becomes very heavy on the wallet!)
Godd choices with 2 Suzis on the list. They have well earned their place in Dual Sport history with low maintenance, high reliability and great performance overall.
I really dream of some new mixture between the DRZ and DR 650 ❤ If Suzuki creates a successor with 6 speeds, FI and some boost in the power…it’s going to smash all the competition for another 30 years.
@@lyubengeorgiev1751 Agree.
@@lyubengeorgiev1751 And with FI, the can tune the bike from factory to meet emissions, but aftermarket can release the real potential. But my own preference is carb. Simpler. Needs no electric, no pump. Too simple to break on the ride. I know the world thinks you have to have FI, but I can do without. Hell, I'd choose 650 air cooling over water cooled. No radiator to break.
But the 6th gear would be the bomb.
@@scottrussell6646 here in Europe there is no chance with the emissions…carb is gone long ago and we can’t get KLR 650 or DR 650 since almost 20 years 😒 and there is one good thing about the FI - the rapid altitude change when passing mountain ranges. With all the ups and downs, you really notice the difference with the carb as you don’t adjust anything, just twist the throttle.
@@lyubengeorgiev1751true. Its a real shame that even with the hole TET thing going on that we dont have any 300 cc + Dual Sports
I agree with placing the 300l near the top of the list. Until recently I did all my adventures on my awesome old suzuki sp250 but it just didnt have that 6th gear for the highway. Slightly more capable off road than my current 300l but not by much. The 300 is an amazing adventure bike and I am so glad I finally bought one. Its been a blast, plus it easily holds all my gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.)
It's amazing how a 30 year old design still makes these types of lists, just proving how good it is. I love my DR650. It has the largest aftermarket of any bike ever and you can turn it into whatever you want. Mine is very dirt biased.
I love mine! Very capable and reliable.
Just got done with a nice loop in the Gifford National Forest here in Washington on my trusty 09 BMW 450x, I bought used 10 years ago. Just broke 20,000km and has been on all kinds of trails and roads. Been very reliable so far! Great to see all the options out there that are affordable and look fun to ride.
It's a shame BMW didnt keep pumping the X out😢
no doubt by now it would be super sick but the good part is I don't have to buy another one! @@chroniclesofsolid
Used to ride the Gif on my 200 2t. Rugged riding with some scary spots. Good times
Awesome! Some spooky stuff for sure and good to have a riding buddys! @@mikemerrill175
this is good, thank you. mostly agree with you, but you can’t leave out the ktm 500/501 platform, especially after including the crf 450
I've owned a DRZ400s, KTM690 and now a KTM 500. I've also ridden several DR650's a CRF300L, and a CRF450L. It's kind of a shame you didn't mention the KTM 500 because it's far and away the best "dual sport" bike in my opinion. It does everything well, gets great gas mileage, can have easily 1000mile oil change intervals. It can be outfitted to be lightweight adventure, or a single track ripper. The CRF450L gets close, but falls a bit short in the ECU department and aftermarket department. 2 years ago I grabbed my 2015 500 exc for $6k used and it's way better than any of the other bikes on this list IMO.
If I need to ride 200 miles on the freeway to get to the trails I want to ride on, do you recommend the the 690 over the 500?
Is the Honda XR650L not available down under? That is the original Pig, including earlier incarnations.
The KTM 520/525 EXC etc are worth a mention too.
Love for EFI bikes. Sure if you know how to work on carbs, that can be done on the side of the trail. But with EFI, you get the “it just works” factor. Which really comes into play when your adventures take you to altitude and temperature extremes.
I've never owned a fuel injected bike, and I've never had elevation problems. I take my Dr.Z from sea level to over 6000 feet every week, and there's never been a loss of power or performance.
I call BS on that. When I took my CBR (fuel injected) to Utah it lost so much power I couldn’t clutch up 3rd gear which is no problem in TN. When I got home after 5 months out west I pulled it off the trailer and went to the store and got sideways pulling out of my apartment riding like I was in a higher elevation
Klx250 300?
My fav was the late 70’s Yamaha 360 two stroke. It had lots of low end torque. A true ghost town mtn exploring goat !
Great video…. Only surprise was not mentioning a KTM 350/500 EXC likely price related and curious that fuel injection and liquid cooling wasn’t a comment on some of the bikes… i am considering one of these bikes and love the decision process… wish I could ride them all…
I'm really liking my 23 690 enduro r, upgraded from the crf250l just 2 weeks ago. The upgrade in power is finally very welcome after riding around on the 250l for 6 years.
How is the 690 in the slower, techy, tighter bits? I have a 250L too and thinking of upgrading in the future.
Have a 300L and 450RL and love em.
The 690/701 was going to be my next bigger bike but ended up with Norden.
If I could only have one bike it’d be a 701.
Great video
Cheers
Thanks Luke, nice combo👍
Thanks for a fact filled video on this genre. I had six bikes registered & on-road simultaneously, only because they were all so unique to eachother & each had me giggling inside my helmet when I rode them. The two that came closest to this category were the Kawasaki KLR-650 & the Kawasaki Versys 650. Obviously the Versys was the best on-road bike with more cylinders, torque & horsepower. Additionally there was the Gl-1800, Triumph Rocket III 2300 cc 3 cylinder, Suzuki 1250 Bandit & the Honda PS-250 Big Ruckus scooter, which would do 70 mph & 70 mpg ( just not at the same time ) lol. I'm 73 now & have reduced my "stable" down to the Bandit for my sport touring bike & the 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber 1200 cc parallel twin high torque. So far, I can't find anything wrong with two 1200's to satisfy my "need for speed". There's no replacement for displacement!
Oh please, the Kawi KLX 300 front compression adjust, rear compression/rebound and preload adjust out of the box.
Is KLX offered in Australia? I think the fact that it doesn't have ABS means Kawasaki can't sell the KLX300 in some countries...
Can’t register them in Australia, otherwise I’m sure it would have been on Solids’ list 😊
@@rickayres9049 Oh, that's a loss.
I think I'd have the KLX300 over the Honda.
And I just can't get on board with the CRF450. The service intervals are stupid for a dual sport. I guess if performance is your priority, it's a good choice, but I was something I can ride every day.
The 450L is great. The oil change is a minor tradeoff. Quickly done, but I agree, not everyone wants to do an oil change once a month.
I went from a KLX300 to the CRF450L. The published service intervals are if you're racing. I've taken my CRF450L on a 1000+ mile ride and the oil still looked okay afterward. It was an expensive bike to purchase and then to have to immediately change the seat and ECU, but once those mods were done, no comparison. The extra maintenance is easy and the extra performance, everywhere, is well worth it. At least to me.
@@jwaller1327 Interesting perspective
The CRF450 has a racing engine. Completely different than a 450cc version of a KLX300/300L engine. As jwaller1327 said, if not racing, the 450RL can go farther between intervals than the manual says- especially if using premium synthetic oil. I personally like the DR650, which is very easy to maintain and repair.
One big bore bike that really does it for me is my SW Motech kitted Husqvarna TR650 Terra. Unfortunately short lived after KTM took them over. Better off-road and 10 more HP than a BMW F650GS Dakar. Did a 2000 mile adventure trip with all camping gear. And off road enduro rides in between.
The SWM 650 Superdual X was also right there.
It’s a shame no one has built a big single anything as flexible and comfortable to do it all like these bikes.
AJP PR7...It uses the same engine as the Husky, built by SWM in the same factory. The AJP chassis design, combined with the ZF Sachs suspension, makes a bike that handles like a dream off road while having plenty of power and comfort for the highway. I love mine.
Its always nice to see your opinion on the "best" I keep trying to like the 690 or 450L, but they are so tall. My dr200 is slow, but it does the job.
I have the 450L and I'm 172 cm. I just try not to stop 😂.
Lower the suspension when you re-spring for your weight. Lots of travel on both of those bikes so you won't miss it.
You could have dropped a couple of those and included the 500 EXC, it’s a great dual sport and widely used Adv bike
Love the video! Started out with a Honda 90 Trail in 1971! So good to see the 125 revival! This video motivated me to look at the 701. Also LOL on the butt scooter clip. Thank you.
Nice work, production quality is up, love your videos.
Much appreciated!
I had to ride a 300L yesterday for 300 miles in the desert without enough warm clothing and I tell ya, bout killed me. 12 straight hours of, go, pull over, warm up, go.
Hey Solid,another great video. Thats a solid (no pun intended) list of bikes, I'm surprised that Suzuki hasn't come up with a new version of the 400, liquid cooled and EFI would have people throwing money at all dealerships and Honda, make the 450l a true duelsport, get the maintenance intervals spread and they will kill it. Cheers from Florida mate.
Thanks Mike. I am not sure if the manufacturers are too tightly governed by marketing or they are just so far removed from the people they sell too that they have lost touch with what people want. Or maybe they have gotten so big as companies they are just too risk adverse🤷♂️
@@chroniclesofsolid The corporate bean counters probably won’t support spending research and development money on anything not electric.
drz400 is liquid cooled, the reason they don't put efi on it is then the bike would have to pass emissions again which would mean a whole redesign of the bike.
they just aren't going to do that when they sell every one they can make. over a decade ago suzuki put efi on the ltz400 quad which had the drz motor so it's not as if it's development, cost or manufacturing issue.
EXC 500 ???
I am a true honda "ride red" fanboy. But this list is so faulted without a Austrian built machine in the 350 or 500 category.
This is a VERY well put together list and great explanation, It's even got a CT125 in it!. I kind of want a dual sport as my next now... Maybe the CRF450L
The TW 200 is superior.
I’m kind of blown away at the choices, they’re all beginner bikes.
The 690 was the only KTM mention. KTM has an entire line of exc bikes, and a line of xc-w bikes. Both lines have 2-stroke and 4-stroke options in multiple displacements.
Then there is Beta, Sherco, TM, and more. This list is a beginner friendly list, not a most versatile list
Great selection. I would add XT250 because it is aircooled and got EFI. Super reliable.
Underrated little gem
XT is also cheap as dirt.
Went one tooth bigger on the front sprocket (Japan has a SM version of the bike - Serow), a Delkavic pipe (not crazy loud), bashplate and a Maddog seat cover and she is good for 110kmh on the tar (95kmh is nicer) and absolutely fine on dirt. Awesome fuel economy no large tank required.
Yes the xt250. Which brings up one issue with the video which is otherwise very well done. No mention of the needs of female dual sport/adv riders. Many female riders struggle with the seat heights of many of these bikes... Enter the xt250. My wife at 68 has done some challenging adv rides in the Western US on hers. Super reliable, I got her seat height to 31" w/o screwing up the suspension.
Yup. Got my wife a XT250. Great little bike, easy to learn on
I went with the 2024 klx300. Was going to go Honda, my usual, but found a Klx for $700 less then the Honda and could not pass it up. Love this bike so far. Coming from a heavier bike I fell like I can throw this thing around all day. I even feel comfortable on the highways of San Diego.
Congrats 🥳
Legend for including the CT! Most fun I've ever had on 2 wheels
I wish Suzuki would bring out an ADV version of the DR400 with a windscreen, TFT dash, 6th gear, bigger tank and better seat for all day road riding. It would thrash the CRF300 Rally.
Forgot to mention KOVE 450 RALLY?
It' s got all: great suspension,power,long service intervals, low weight,incredible range and low price, comfort on tarmac and agility offroad.
Sweet lineup! I love all those bikes. I have a 300l like you, but I think once I pay it off I will upgrade to the 701 :)
If Suzuki updated the DRZ (as well as the DR) it will never be that simple easy to work-on bike you extolling for. Suzuki don't change a thing!
Did you seriously just put out a "7 most versatile Dual Sport" list and NOT include a KTM 500 EXC-F???? Hilarious.
Great video sir as always... There is an optional choice to the CRF300 that does not need the rear shock and spring as well as the front springs replaced. Just buy a KTX300 and save $2000.00 on the suspension upgrades... Keep up the good work sir... :)
Thanks mate. You mean the KLX? Its only available in North America so it gets left out.
That's too bad... you all are getting ripped off... :(@@chroniclesofsolid
@@ozarksbackroads5484 300L here, I did my rear shock and front spring/oil upgrade for 600 usd. Bike cost $5k with all taxes.
My bike has ABS, a screen with gear indicator, fuel gage, slipper clutch and all the aftermarket support.
KLX lost the fight before it even started.
My wr250r lugs quite well actually but I do have a megabomb header and an FMF pipe and I was able to get it tuned spot-on. I can lug all day long and go up steep climbs at low RPMs. My new Kove 450 rally is definitely in another League above it. Talk about versatility! And then my t7 is the ultimate for the longer Open Road trips with ability to go a lot of places
That's just it. There is no do it all bike. Like shoes and handbags for women, men have to realize: Work hard and buy multiple bikes. I'd love to try a Kove 450,...or a AJP PR7 for that matter. Kove seems really good 🤘🤘
@@christiangrendel9893
I put about 150 miles on my Kove 450 rally over the last 2 days. The bike is better than I expected, and my expectations were high. I've been riding single track with a fair amount of elevation changes. Beat up Jeep roads, fast and flowing fire roads along with twisty pavement and fast Interstate. Very versatile and super fun motorcycle!
Tell us how it is doing 2 yrs after purchase hopefully with 20K miles.@@silverhill377
For the Honda CRF 450L you can get an after market side cover that increases the oil capacity by 400ml. Love the dual sport motorcycles. Keep the vids coming.
Which one is this?
❓❓❓
The 2023 wr250f is an amazing bike one you remove the restrictions an get the competition ECU revs to 16,000 rpm I love mine
I wouldn't mind the 690 motor and tank in a 500 exc frame and suspension.Could it be done?
It is a pity KTM stopped making the 640 Adventure. Just as well I bought one new and still have it.
If they ever upgrade to the DR650 to fuel injection and a 6th gear it will be my last bike. I owned an 09 and sold it and I regret that decision.
Brilliant video mate, well researched, informative and bloody entertaining. I'm torn between the CRF450 and KTM690, so was great to trip across your comparison.
Glad you enjoyed it 👍 Good luck on the decision.
XT660R perhaps? I have the Z and use it mainly for offroad. Great bike if you don't mind the height / weight. Definitely more in the adventure category though
My list would probably be very similar. I have owned the CRF300L and currently own the 450RL. Both are great bikes. I’ve got to get a comfort seat for the 450, because as it is now, it’s like sitting on a board. I’d like to eventually get a KTM 690 or a Husky 701. I think I like the look of the 701 a little better. Good list!
@@MrNaxen Excellent point.
@@MrNaxen There are quite a few of the high milage ones on the market in Australia, but usually with this bike, one of 2 things happen. People buy them and decide they aren't for them, or don't get used, and are sold with low milage, or people keep them forever and ride them into the ground. Especially as they haven't changed radically over the years. In the group forums, people talk about getting 100k km's out of them. I know guys that are well past 50k on them, and still going strong. The key with KTM's is to maintain them properly.
Is the 300L worth they money!???
@@jackiemoon7559 I think the 300L is absolutely worth the money. It is a great bike, but you have to understand what it is. It’s not super-powerful, the suspension is really soft, the seat could be more comfortable…but it is light and maneuverable, it is very easy to ride on the road, on gravel, on some simple single-track type stuff. Check out Woodzman Adventures here on RUclips for lots of good 300L content.
Noice! Do you enjoy the 450 more over the 300l. I currently own the 300l.. great little bike, but is it worth spending the money on it to get more out of it I.e, suspension engine, or just upgrade to the 450 and call it good?
Kove 450 will grab the enthusiasts market for the middle weight segment.
I agree that those at some of the bikes, but I was missing the exc 500, the AJP PR7, KOVE 450, fantic 450... I bellive those could have been put in to the mix as well :-)
Maybe get a hold of some experienced AJP pr7 owners that know the fixes that have been addressed in newer bikes over the earlier models :-)
Another great video. Great choices you made in it to. Rode a honda 250l for over 12,000 miles. Then upgraded to the ktm.690 r. Honda did a great upgrade with the 300l. The Hondas are like tanks they do everything and keep on going it was just the low power and soft suspension that I didn't like. Loving my ktm 690 now and for sure is one I will ride for awhile now.
For RTW, I'd choose the DR650. For weekend dirt bike touring I'd go WR250R.
I was very much able to predict all but the CT and then wr on this list. One thing is for sure, Honda and Suzuki have a huge presence in our worlds. I do wish the KTM would be a little bit less expensive but honestly I've ridden a 690 and it's too much bike for me at my Skil level. I'll keep on blasting down trails on my drz and be stupid happy while doing it!
The 690 is too much for me as well.
swm superdual x 👍
This is a great list, that I think there may be changes to in the near future.
If the Kove proves to be both reliable and popular, it will give the Honda 450 a run for its money. If the suspension on the Himalayan 450 proves to be either good or easily upgraded, it will fit on the list at the ADV end. If KTM had finished their 400 or 500cc twin they would have owned the premium/performance section of this list, except maybe for weight and width.
I am curious why you didn’t put one of the EXC bikes or a Beta on this list? I have never actually owned one, but the guys I ride with who have them, love them. Service intervals are definitely an issue, but no more so than on the Honda 450.
Hope all is well and looking forward to progress on the garage.
Cheers!
I chose the 450L over the EXC's because the Honda's motor is less like a paint shaker on the open road. It also has some small concessions to keeping engine noise low with some sound deadening features so its a bit easier on the ears. I talk about the virtues of the EXC's and Beta's as ultra light adventure bikes in a previous vid all about them👍
I will back Solid up on the EXC's. Riding my buddy's 2023 500 EXC 6 days the vibration coming through the seat was not acceptable. Better dirt bike potentially but unacceptable for dual sport use IMO. Another buddy's older 500 EXC (2013?) only vibrated slightly more than my 450L and was fine.
@@mikeisland7382still I wonder to what extent that can be sorted by a suitable aftermarket seat. In my experience the discomfort suffered on a exc is only marginally worse than on the 690.
@@miro_sI rebuilt my seat and it’s no worse than riding a DR. You can feel vibes if you push hard on the pegs at highway speed but but you don’t ride like that. So much I’ll informed talk re the 500, especially “daily” oil changes.
@@miro_s Greetings! I have a 2020 KTM 690 enduro r. Since 2019, the 690’s are extensively upgraded. Twin counter balancing shafts that really smooth out the ride. I also have a heavily modified 2017 Suzuki DR 650 that I have enjoyed. The performance differences are extreme. I will keep my DR just in case the 690 is in the shop. Hahahahaha
I'm a PO of the portly KLR🐷.
I enjoyed it for a year,, but touring it was frustrating.
The KTM is nice if you have deep poskets.
But I'd seriously lean on the DR Bush Pig for a multi purpose Duel Sport. Jmho.
Cheers 🍻,, G. In beautiful Boulder City Nv. USA 🇺🇸
KTM 500. And dr650. Have both set up for remote long adventures.
Surprised not to see the 500 in the list, but get it has to end somewhere
I’m looking at a 300 Rally or KTM500… what would you recommend? I plan to tow the bike to most places like the Victorian high country for multi day rides
i mean, its its pure single and double tracks the 300 for more technical stuff but the 500 would do them no worries and be a lot more fun on more open stuff. sooo much versatility with the 500, best bank for buck in its category i recon @@bilal3827
More on the Gas Gas 700 as orange hurts my eyes & makes me think of Florida.... whereas Red makes me think of Ferraris and Honda 600's. All kidding aside love your show big time and "solid" reviews. Seriously when you consider how hard the Hondas are to get anyway and the suspension work they need and if you're over 250 lbs naked then you need more power right?
Thanks! John from SoCal
Thanks John, appreciate it 👍 Red also goes faster 😎
DR650 for the win!!
perfect list...we´ve got crf300rally,crf450l and ktm690 ihe garage...think we went for the all new ones...but will probably sell the crf300rally..the 450l is just too good
This video only needed the first 3 minutes. Postie Bike - done :D
I'm curious if there were any consideration given to any of the Husqvarna big bore machines? I'm guessing they would be more closely comparable to the KTM big bore machines in most every aspect?
Hi Solid, there is a rumour that Honda is going to re release the crf450rl back in Australia. Few youtube videos are up saying that it will be as soon as October november 2023. Can you please investigate? This would be an ideal bike for me❤
Talked about this two months ago in ADV NEWS mate. I have been told its a strong possibility by people I trust. Remember there is no such thing as certainty until Honda themselves confirm.
Ktm500exc-f or husky brother is the king, so much low down torque my nana could ride it, yet twist the throttle and nana will crap her G-string.
701 ... what a boss! Bit of a handful and the low end fueling is HORRIBLE... otherwise...epic. thanks for the video solid
Fit a Fuel Dongle from Rex at Fuel Torque in QLD. It will revolutionise the bottom end; no stalling and huge grunt from idle. Best thing I ever did to my Euro 5 690. $250 well spent.
@morganpyner hi. Thanks for the reply. I actually removed a fuel dongle the previous owner put on, it made the bike bog down on about 30% throttle coming out of corners, I figured I couldn't deal with that and opted for the Rough bottom end. You have personal experience with this Tex dongle? Mines a 2019 model if that makes any difference
Let’s hope Ducati makes a single cylinder version of the desert X out of their new for 2024 hypermotard 650 single! Keep it light on electronics and thereby less expensive I’d be all in!
With the 450RL and the KTM on the list...I'd say take a look at the Beta RR-S lineup too...
Been happy with my klx300, but if something at 400 ccs or so came out that was similar, I'm ashamed to say id dump her for it. Still waiting for that unicorn dual sport, but they are getting close.
Excellent video. A shout out to the shorter riders who want to enjoy the scenery on their adventure. The CT125, of course, but the CT110 had the Hi-Lo transmission. TW200, XT225 6spd, KL250 Sherpa, DR350 6spd(!), and post '95 DR650 lowered. I'm a believer in following God's categories: 125cc, 250cc, 350cc, 450cc, and 650cc. For example, the CRF300 weighs as much as the 350 class but lacks its torque; while giving up the lightweight and lower seat heights of some 250cc. The DRZ400, super star that it is, cannot beat the CRF450, while losing the lower seat height and wide range 6spd transmission of the DR350.
Another great video brother. Thank you.
How did you not include the Kawasaki KLR 650 on this list? I found it to be a very much 50/50 motorcycle.
Another great option right now is a KTM 450 EXC. You can find em cheap, they're legal, and they're great off road. Thay can also cruise at 65 no problem, and they're dirt bike light. 6 speed, easy valve adjustment, and they're classified as MC so you can eeaisly hrow a plate on it.
I just grabbed one for $2500 with low hours and miles, it runs great and it's everything I wanted my DRZ 400 to be at close to half the price used. I think it's a great option for someone on a budget, to dip your toes into dual sport if you already know how to ride (dirt or street), or for a second bike if you already have something more road or trail oriented.
Awesome video! Thank you
This is so true
18mths ago I bought a 2016 AT the bike is awesome on road and off road but it's so hard to learn to ride off road on a big bike.
I'm about to buy a smaller bike to speed up my learning curve
“One armed chimp with a learning disability”!
I nearly spit out my tea!!!!!😂😂
😬
Excellent...thank you
Looking forward to the kove 450 rally!
I've got a 93' Honda XR250L, 260 pounds dry, with 30hp at 9000 rpm.
As an owner of a dr650 can 100% agree it is a dinosaur, and i wouldnt trade it for anything. Absolute tractor and bulletproof.
DR650 dry weight is more like 147 kg than your listed 166 kg. Also the CRF450RL ‘service interval’ of 1000 km is really just for oil changes. Valve check is 3000 km and major service interval is 32,000 km which is really good.
My brothe & I had a 1964 Honda Sport 90 (S90) back around 1969 we were 12-13yrs, before that we had a Honda 50cc step-through & a similar Yamaha V75, a Suzuki TC90 with 100cc MX barrel & pipe. Of course destroyed them, or tried. And then in our mid-teens, real bikes. I purchased an almost new Red TS185 & brother soon after a "New" Silver MT125. We were playing with the big boys then. 😁
from empirical experience, an RE Himalayan is excellent for beginners (and shorter people) who seek a workhorse that can tackle both road and light off-road. I'd avoid it if you look for off-road performance and speed, although it's a pretty tough machine that can take a lot of abuse even in very gnarly terrain, where you wouldn't assume it really belongs!
DR650 is my next bike. I don’t think it’ll replace my gen 2 KLR but maybe. I’ll keep them both unless one sits too much.