6 speed, electric start, street legal, inverted forks and I'll be happy. Don't care for fuel injection, can't fix it on the trail. It's also a lot more expensive if it needs work.
@@jasonbarton7189 You're probably right. It would help if they fuel injected it. I just want Honda to produce another big bore thumper. Another high revving 450 for 12k isn't what the dual sport community needed.
It's actually far harder to steal an XR650R then a CRF450L. Lol Where I live they don't worry about riding off with it, they just pull up with 2 guys in the bed that jump out and throw the whole bike in the bed of the truck and take off. Steering lock won't do anything to stop them but the weight/size of the XR650R will and just use an aftermarket steering lock. I think the XR650R also looks better and has more character. I love that the XR650R is carburated and kickstart it adds a lot of character to the bike. Fuel injection is nice but the electric start is boring, weighs more and not as reliable as kickstart.
It was a sad day when honda discontinued the xr650r. I thought it would replace the xr500/600/650L. The mx based bikes are ok but i miss a big reliable trail bike with a comfy seat.
As far as curing on highway twitchiness in the 650r, I’ve found that raising the forks 8mm in the triples solves that issue. The race bike used by Campbell used a Cr 500 shock which was 5mm taller. If that shock is used with the stock triple and the forks all the way down in the triple the highway ocilations are gone. To get the same thing with the stock xr 650r shock, raise the forks 5-8 mm. The stock shock is shorter than the cr 500 shock by 5mm. You don’t lose that much ground clearance and the bike turns better in the tight stuff. Try it!!!
Thanks, I'll try it. I've notice the front fairings cause a lot of turbulence at freeway speed. I though about trimming them or heating them up and bending the front inward. What do you think?
@@yourfacelookslikebut Wind is wind is wind is wind. The fact that your body is an upright wind target much larger than any fairings, would lead me to believe that modifying the fairings would have little impact. You need those to duct air over the radiators especially at low speeds. So of it were me I wouldn’t modify them. I ride sport bikes too and fly planes. Lots of fairings. Sometimes your a sail and sometimes not.
I have a plated 2002 uncorked 650r. It is the most fun on two wheels I’ve ever had and I’ve ridden a lot of different types of bikes. That being said if Honda came out with a 650r with e-start, fuel injection, and 6 speed tranny I would be in heaven. Oh hi husqvarna 701! Also, I don’t ride that hard but I get 40-50 mpg pretty easily on the streets.
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 this is good thanks. I am looking at 1 of these, had the XRR but sold it, now have 2018 CRF1000L2 but also want something for trail riding now. I flew from Cabo to Dallas, rode the XRR from Denton Texas over 1000 miles back to Cabo, Baja . The XR650R was absolutely flawless. Rode it a few years in Baja mountains, all smiles. Now looking at used plated XRR’s and the 450L, plus the 250L. 😁 perfect timing for your video!
I really like your approach and style. Been watching your Baja stuff too. I'd look forward to a ride sometime and collaborating content. Keep up the good work!
Very good review, like you say different bikes different people and countries, the CRF is ideal for tight trails in the Uk and the R is perfect for wide open spaces. I will pick my CRF up Friday , lots of mods to do but mainly tyres. Thank you Bermcannon again
Tires should definitely be high on the list, the stocker IRC's absolutely blow off-road. I ended up with a Goldentyre 216AA 90/100 Fatty up front and a tried and true Dunlop D606 outback in the 120/90 flavor. They've completely transformed my confidence on the trails, no more fear of the front washing out from under me and the rear digs until it holds now. Congrats on the new 450L, you'll love it!
Personally I'd buy both. The XR for commuting and long tours and the CRF for going out on a day trip to hoon around the trails or do hooligan stuff in town
I’m the Mad Max type guy but I want FI and electric start. I want an updated XR, DR, and DRZ. Great videos. Just found you so I’m watching old videos. Thanks
Great review that gets to the point. I love the new CRF450L but a part of me wishes Honda would bring back a modern day XR650R that would be street legal. Guess I’m wishful thinking 😆 Nothing will ever come close
I got to agree with you bud..at least from what I"ve researched on both these bikes. Also spot on when you said you feel sorry for the manufacturer's these days haha! Been looking for the perfect duel sport-adventure bike and I'm not sure it exist. The DR-Z 400e street legal comes pretty close but the gearing spread sucks for Hwy and tight trail combo.Call me old school but if I got rid of the DR it would probably be for an XR 600r...watched an old clip of Johnny Campbell riding one back in the day and man.. you would never know it was outdated..pretty Impressive! :)
Joe. Johnny Campbell started it all for me. In 2001 I watched Johnny Race a 650 at the Adelanto Grand Prix and you have to realize at this time it was all two strokes but the thunder of the 650 coming into the motocross section and watch Johnny jump the water jump and blowout berms and then hit 90 mph on the pavement section just blew my mind as a young motorcross’er
@@bermcannonk Thats awesome! As you probably know Scott Summers is another one that liked to beat up on the 2 strokers with his XR. Check out Fox MX Terrafirma 3 on you tube. Opening scene is Johnny riding that 600r with a chopper chasing Him through the dessert.. pure legendary!
I agree about feeling sorry for the manufacturers in this day and age, it's impossible to please everyone and it's getting even harder to please even a slight majority. Changing terrain and riding conditions due to location, rider abilities, rider demands and preferences, it's all too skewed for a manufacturer to encompass it all in one bike. All of that combined with the immediate gratification expectations of our modern "me first" society and it's no wonder that every review of any one bike seems to be all over the place. Personally I see this bike as a full on street legal Enduro bike that has much better on-road characteristics than its direct competitors and a slight nod of dual-sport function which the others lack in all respects. Think KTM/Husky 450's and 500/501, that's the company the 450L keeps and while it's slightly heavier (easily remedied with a few choice mods), it has a better chassis and suspension, a stronger sub-frame, full led lighting, a third piston ring, better service intervals, and the legendary Honda reliability and dealer/parts network to back it up. Shed a few pounds and buy under MSRP and this is a fantastic bike.
Great video 👍 service intervals : XR650R = almost none existent and so easy to work on 👍 If Honda worked some HRC magic on the CRF450L and produced it with the same 650r motor 😀 now that would be an awesome weapon CRF650R 🎉🎉🎉 till that time comes I'm sticking with the XR650R because there's else like it in my opinion pure awesomeness ✌️👌😀
I forgot to mention that and that’s a good point and another good point I forgot to mention in the video is the 650 is more stable because of its weight on the trail and that’s a big thing to me in a lot of cases it’ll save you when you hit a pothole or a rock it’ll stay on track rather with the 450 it’ll kick you off
Bermcannon : yer I've been there "the brown pants moments" you close your eyes for that impact 😖 only to open them a second later to find everything is good and the xr as just saved my life 😇 again, and just keeps on going motoring through anything in its way 😏 I love it .
650R is a open territory beast, with fuel injection, a rebound and compression rear shock, and new technology forks and maybe a key. It’d be dual sport nirvana. It’s a real slog through tight single track because it’s a big bruiser but fire roads beg to hear the thunder of the 650R. 😎
I agree 100% with John M why can't Honda update Xr650r some need to Design Fuel injection kit I am sure that on the could redesign the XR650 3 lighter be more efficient divider
which tank is that on the xr650...? never seen it in my country they are smaller I guess...the hole where you put the gas doesnt go so high above the seat like this one. Where can I find this one? thank you
Just remeasured my fork tubes. They are at 10mm above the top triple clamp. No high speed twitchiness @ 100mph in the steering. Originally the tubes were flush with the top triple clamp. The bike had an oscillation at high speeds on the highway. If I leaned forward it went away. Leaning back it came back. Lowered the front end by 10mm. All good. Had also set sag as per a conversation with precision concepts. So the sag was good. Forks set up by them (valved and sprung) and used their recommended shock spring for my weight. Im using the stock shock.
No bike does everything right, people will always find something to complain about. I do find it funny how the xr650r never really caught on when it was introduced and people sneered at them. Fast fwd a decade and they are in serious demand on the used market.
Good review/compare....the 450 seems to be a good bike. Trouble is us XR650R owners will love that bike forever and it's just a unique, and awesome bike. I have an Xt660z Tenere as well to keep the mileage down on the XR650R, I hope I can keep it going forever! I took the new Triumph scrambler XE out for a test ride recently and it was a great bike, but riding home from the Triumph dealers on the XR650R it reaffirmed what an amazing bike it is , with suspension ahead of its time. I'm proud to have an XR with it's great racing pedigree, from Baja to Dakar! Cheers, Steve
Nice comparison but its getting hard to find Dominators anymore, especially out here on the East Coast. I was a Honda tech years ago and enjoyed the XR650L as a beginner rider but never got a chance to ride a 650R. That being said, the 450L is an amazing bike and is finally a dirt worthy dual sport from Honda. Im so stoked to own one. It definitely needs the efi managed for East coast single track due to the abrupt throttle but otherwise, it’s awesome. I wont diss the 650 tho. I drove to my local Honda dealer to look at one initially til I saw the CRF discounted down to $8000. That made the choice a hell of a lot easier.
Great video! I've had my XR650R for 19 happy years. Although there have been times I've desired the amenities of modern bikes, I could never part with my BRP. Instead, I've modified mine to include everything I could ever want in a "does everything" bike and it just keeps getting better with age. A nice facelift with a Squadron Pro and sleeker front fender gives all the modern styling and lighting performance of newer bikes. Throw in legendary performance, reliability and history, what's not to love? Here's a video I made of mine a few months ago, after some upgrades. ua-cam.com/video/xDk5QlNAw3s/v-deo.html Since making this video, I've now also upgraded to a C-Fab electric starter kit, Ignitech programmable DC CDI, Trail-Tech gauges, heated grips, USB charger and a clean custom dash I fabricated. It's like falling in love all over again. Whenever thoughts about other bikes come to mind, I spend most of my time thinking about building another XR650R (supermoto perhaps) then I do even looking at what's new out there. Long live the big red pig.
Hi :) I have a chnce to buy a xr650r. i want to ask you, about highway speed, i know the bike is capable, and not for highway riding, but still, how much is the vibration ? If i change the sprokets, could it be not so vibration ? :) thank you.
Just came across this video, and have been and always will have an XR650R in the stable. There is a great modern front end upgrade. The polisport / KTM front fender adapter allows you to put a 16+ KTM front fender and headlight ( with Baja Squadron ) on the XR and gives it a really modern look.
Honda is stupid for stopping production on the BRP.. Fucking Stupid. I am on my third. Only because of financial situations. These new bikes look like some weird Nike shoe.
I've had 3 BRP in the past, loved them, I see them for sale locally for $2500 to 3k unmolested a couple times a year, and I think a out a sumo conversion as I sleep, lol I have a 18 ktm450 xcf, well suspended, fast and 6 speed conversion, for dirt racing, would make a good sumo(maybe faster than a xr650r ), but how long will it last :( I had an edelbrock in one of mine, lol, maybe smartcarb has a version now. Honda, BIG thank you, we all WIN XR650R CRF450x(2019 and up, WOW) CRF450L(don't have one, the FI 450x it just too good, lol) CRF250x
Hey man, so I ride a XR400R with all the Gordon’s mods, 93 octane wise co piston & valves pumper carb ETC, would it be realistic to move to a XR650R or L (hard to find clean either here in Canada), I don’t wanna spend a lot of money on a 450, when I could have the big brother to my XR400R instead. I love my 400 but eventually I’m gonna outgrow it because of my young age (21)
long live the BRP. I have a couple of questions about your XR, can you make a video or let me know about what wheels your running and the light is that a high/low version or just a pure driving light. And just so you know I just purchased a BRP after watching your Baja videos.
The XR won every category that actually mattered except highway riding… and I’d bet it would win that if it was properly setup… it’s heavier and heavier always equals more stability and comfort on the highway. Good rip though…I enjoyed it.
Hahaha, "like sitting on a sofa"? Dude, love your videos, and I'm absolutely in love with my BRP, but that's "a bit" biased, unless you change the stock seat! I'd choose a cactus over the XR stock seat after a couple of days of riding! :D EU bikes came with a steering lock like the CRF450L, and you can probably install one on yours quite easily! So I'd say this is a tie! Also ease of use, the lack of e-start on the XR650R is a pain, as a lot already mentioned in the comments. Love the videos, keep it up! :)
Really need to have a category for ease of starting, ie kick start or electric start. Yes if you now the routine of starting the 650r it’s pretty easy, but still not as easy as the Push button start. Where electric start is really nice is technical, hill climbs or dunes stalling out….😮
You think it's a bike that will hold up for 20 yrs? I've always been a fan of XR's. Finally took the top end off my 03 just because I wanted to put a 440 kit on it. My brother has an 84 that's as clean as you'll ever find one and still has never had the top end off. I just hope Honda doesn't shoot themselves in the foot by over complicating things.
Great review Mark. I am a believer in the XR's. As my bud and I have flogged 4 XR 250's in Baja .Each bike having at least 20,000 miles on them in Baja before we sold them. And only one of them had anything engine wise done to it. ( I wanted more horsepower and installed a big bore kit.) As far as reliability you can't ask for more than that. As far as the honda 450 . I have watched the last 2 dakar events where the 450's of brabec have grenaded themselves. The new style engines just need more service and I mean all makes of offroad race bikes. Only time will tell on the crf.
I grew up in Fla. Have raced and ridden since 13 yrs old...60yrs old and still holding. I have owned a CR500R 85 in my open class MS days. I almost bought a 650r a few years back, but the Irish moto owner could not get it started. I know these big handss have a starting process. Soooo as I migrate to Dual sporting in my golden years kicking a motor cycle is NO fun at my age. Being an East coaster tiggt woods technical rider who also rode baja on a slam dunk weekend. My only beef with your review is I think most riders do not want to kick a motorcycle with a coffe can size piston. I still think if I could have started the Big Red Pig it would be in my garage. Another point the Irishman said is if the going gets slow even with fans...overheat. so thats my two cents and the masses have been waiting on the 450L!
@@bermcannonk Thanks for all you did... I really enjoyed. The scoring was spot on. I know taking the time to do a "Dirt Bike Magazine" shootout takes time. Your comparison was short and sweet!
Cheers, I really enjoyed that comparo. I have a real soft spot for older Honda trail bikes. Spent a fair bit of time on a Dominator (road and town hack), 750 AT, XR400, XR650R and L. Great all rounders but bush pigs. They are really hard to kill and will go anywhere eventually. I have a very unusual spanner to throw into the mix.. Japanese home market bike but grey imported into a few countries, not the US as far as I know. The CRM 250R MKII 2 stroke. I have a 93 and it is brilliant, still starts first kick and runs like a Swiss watch. About 130kg wet, a very generous 40hp (FMF pipe adds a couple of angry stallions), 6 speed, nice, thick seat and 70 - 80 mph cruising. It does like petrol, though. It would be fascinating to throw one into the mix. I can still get all parts for it, too. amazing.
How about E-Start ?? bing bing bing! worth a few points. I loved my 650R and I didn't mind the pig on tight trails. However, I think I would have been more adventurous down in canyons or hill climbs if I had E-start. Thats Huge because a dirt bike should confidently take us almost anywhere.
I love my klr650. My BMW gsa800 is just like glass to it's so damn smooth it's insane i think. One thing I don't like about the 450 is the oil change interval. Sucks Cali makes you add more restrictive exhaust and intakes
@@jasonbarton7189 Try one and you understand ! I get the purist view of not converting to SM , but try a factory SM like a 701 . It's the ultimate city bike. Light ,nimble , narrow for filtering and a lot of fun
umm, you do realise its a 25min job to change sumo wheels to dirt wheels (and visa versa), right?????? and proper sumo includes dirt anyway... (just no mud) and if you can't understand the attraction of doing jumps, dirt/gravel, and peg crapping lean angles on the same bike withing a few minutes, then there is no hope for you! Supermoto its the rally cross of 2 wheels, 2 bikes is one...
Nice comparison but its like you elude to in your video, not every bike is for every rider. People fit these bikes differently. Do you have a video on your 650 Headlight and stator upgrade?
@@bermcannonk Would love to see one if you ever feel the motivation to produce it. I cant be the only old codger out there who would like to still upgrade their XRR Headlamp. Might be a big hit for you...just saying.
good review. sad that the 650R didn't have continued development. also sad about the price of bikes nowadays. even adjusted for inflation a 650R should cost about $8,900 in todays dollars.
Yeah,in some situations the extra weight with the 650 helps with stability,but i have had times at decent speeds when the 650 starts to go and there was no amount of muscle that was going to bring it back and having a miserable day:)
The CRF450L isn't even a consideration for me but I really appreciate the comparison video. I've had an XR650L for a few years now and after about 3 years bothering my buddy about his XRR, I am going to sell my L and buy the R this year.
You say "guy" a whole lot. I'm a girl, and I freaking love my XR650R. No hard feelings, just throwing it out there that motorcycle enthusiasts and riders are not all men :) Thx for the video tho. Enjoyed it!
@@bermcannonk Hey man Thx for the amazing content I Just picked up my own 2002 XR650R and would like to do the exact same build as your, I'm in Palmdale CA area and would love to come down and get introduced to this tight knit XR family and maybe go on one of your rides. Feel free to contact me to see if we can make that happen! as always keep up the great work.
XR650R wins because it’s the XR650R. I bought mine new in 2007 to replace my 1982 XL500R that I rode from CT to WY when I was 16. We looked like the Beverly Hillbillies packed for the trip. Figured on doing it again on XR. Bulletproof as you say. 650 turns 1,000 rpm less than 450 at top speed. Better oil situation for unending weeks of highway riding. Figured more torque for timber sled track conversion. I got a great start at Southwick MX338 with it 8 years ago (and did lousy from there) . I’ve enjoyed snapping around on a 450 a few times, but I prefer my 1996 CR250 for such. I still have everything. 82 has best seat, but man, sounds like your destroying it at 60mph. I was 16 and knew nothing else. My father was awesome on his identical bike for the trip, but he was nearly wrecked on the way back being 22 years older than me. I now realize I’m off topic somewhat. I had to throw all that in there as I typed
The BRP is simply too hard to use due to being kickstart only. It will gather cobwebs as the electric start and EFI of the CRF450L will spoil anybody. I maintain an '87 XL600R and it gathers cobwebs as the electric start and EFI of my CRF250L spoils me.
Great comparison. I'm seriously thinking of scaring up a BRP even 4 years later. But it's poor mileage isn't because of that massive piston. It's because technology has passed it by. KTM's even larger, more powerful 690 gets over 50mpg.
CRF450L is an enduro not a dual sport. Honda should update the xr650l and make it lighter, fuel injected and 6 speed. 450l has too short of service intervals. 600 mile oil changes, 1800 valve adjustments
The 650R is an awesome bike that could have been even better with a 6th gear over drive for better high speed cruising and and electric start. Mine kick started real easy, but we are all spoiled now by modern bikes. I like the fact that it had a carb rather than FI, gives you more confidence getting 100 miles out into the middle of nowhere.
@@nvmcrider8475 they needed a lower first for tight work. a six speed that's spread out (a little) more. i bought my first one in 01 and am on my third one now... i like 'em a lot. speed, power, grunt, handling, brakes, dependability...
The 450L is a dual sport not an enduro that’s why it comes street legal from the factory, If it was an enduro it wouldn’t have indicators etc just a headlight and taillight like the wr450
@@honda8192 the same wr450f is road legal here in NZ (and Australia) off the showroom floor - where is your argument now?? Heck, even the 300exc I had was road legal... so the erzberg winning bike is not an enduro now because its road legal!? haha
I have a 650r and I love the thing low end power makes hill climbs effortless but the but sucks in the tight stuff over heats and front end tends to push id like to get on the new 450l and she how it does my buddy has a 450x and the throttle is super jumpy and tends to stall at low speeds
ryan, I chose the 450L over the XR650 because I was afraid of overheating issues living in the desert. Had the XR been liquid cooled it might have been my choice. Though a radiator, jacket and coolant would have added more weight to an already heavy bike,
Your old xr650r isn’t the best looking one I’ve come across and the crf is just a ktm copy the xr650r is for men. The crf is new and nice. You should have had a more standard 650r without the mods. Just just comparing your own mods against a nice new unmolested bike I’m not impressed Honda should made a electric starter xr650r Your test is just wrong I’ve owned a lot of xr650r s and there gods gift to dirt bikers when your crf is in a skip. Your xr will be ready for a service. Big over engineered engines last forever
No one would like that more than myself I’ve owned over 60 XR650r s I think I have around 20 at the moment I went to Scotland last week on a 650r. Europe last year I have supermoto enduro trail and flat track Monnier Delara Paris Daker bikes. I’ve built and worked on them for the last twenty years And designed and manufactured parts for them. I’ve also had crf s. Great bike but come with short lifespan. They fall to pieces and aren’t worth anything after a few years The XR650r is up there with all the other HRC bikes like the RC30/ RC45 / NR750/ XL600Daker/ RCV s. And 2005 fireblade A crf is just a good dirtbike when a new model comes out everyone forgets the old exist. The XR650r go’s up in value. It’s a legend. If Honda did bring a new one out it would probably be a disappointment. I was told by someone at Honda if they built a bike of they standard today no one pay the high cost. the new Africa twin cost double what a xr cost. With a steel frame and wheels that rust and the gold come off. Cheep bike high price tag If that the best the Honda accountants will give us I’ll keep my original. But if honda HRC did build a new one And make it the same but with a bigger tank better lighting comfier seat bigger brakes and rads with fan. electric start more protection around the drive sprocket and make it 700cc or 750cc. But keep same frame and look. I’d sell them by the truck load. I still think your putting a sorry looking XR650r against a beauty queen crf if you tested one of my xr s against the crf it wouldn’t get any points. But good vid and all the best. Porsche 911 is still going. Land Rover. So why not.
It would make complete sense to have a 6th gear. On my 2nd xr650l love it but it does struggle on the highway but enjoy the price tag over the crf450l it should be half of it a drz 400 is not over 10k
What are your thoughts on a 2008 xr650r with under 300 miles on it? The local shop emailed saying they are getting one this week to cosign if I wanted to stop by and look at. What are they selling for used these days?
As far as weight goes the XR looks like it would be heavier to pick up if you were to go down. Especially with bags and gear. I ride a 2000 kx 250 now and really light weight. Looks like the 450 would be a little more manageable in tighter spaces as well.
What if: Honda come out with a new and improved 650, would you still buy the 450? I know, maybe not comparable, but a new improved 650, lighter, maybe 6 speed and fuel injected as some of you guys already mentioned? That does sound like a sweet deal though 😁
Yeah 6-speed would have been the thing the best thing. I have an XR 600 and I got to run 15/42 gearing, which leaves me with a super high first gear my poor clutch. But I live in open desert and that thing will go straight through the desert at full speed I pass four fifties all the time. Electric starts way too heavy my 600 does good in the tight spots cuz mine is so light at under 300 LBS. LOL
@@bermcannonk I looked it up and the 650 is less than 40 hp and the 450 is more than 40 hp. Seems incorrect to give the HP edge to the 650. Gearing could make it feel that way and kill top end, and that big piston probably edges the torque in the 650's favor.
Jeff Hanson Good point Jeff ...the 650 in the video is not stock. but that could be a good video where the two bikes can be compared ultimately on a Dino.
@@bermcannonk Yes it would my guess is the 450 still wins because uncorked with new mapping it should go up close to 60 hp I'm thinking. Not sure a carbureted 650 will be able to match that.
Bro I love the way that headlight makes the XR look.
There is some dude that put 2 of those plates on. Makes it look insane
Honda should revise the XR650R from the ground up with a CRF alloy frame, 6 speed, fuel injection, electric start, road legal
And a better sub frame for luggage
Frame is brilliant as is, aluminium frames take up alot of space and are too rigid in my opinion of course yours may differ
@@codenamenoob4973 agreed. Having a somewhat flexible frame is why the 650r can handle whoops with ease at pretty much any speed
I'd buy that . Wish Honda would come out with the new 650r
6 speed, electric start, street legal, inverted forks and I'll be happy. Don't care for fuel injection, can't fix it on the trail. It's also a lot more expensive if it needs work.
Honda should have put out an Xr650r 6-speed with electric start instead of the 450, just sayin’!
I agree
@@bermcannonk I don't know I really like my 450L
This guy beat me to it. 100% true.
I think they would have had a hard time making it pass updated emissions standards, otherwise I agree
@@jasonbarton7189 You're probably right. It would help if they fuel injected it. I just want Honda to produce another big bore thumper. Another high revving 450 for 12k isn't what the dual sport community needed.
It’s hard to beat the low RPM LUGING power on the 650. The thing is a tractor on the trail.
It's actually far harder to steal an XR650R then a CRF450L. Lol Where I live they don't worry about riding off with it, they just pull up with 2 guys in the bed that jump out and throw the whole bike in the bed of the truck and take off. Steering lock won't do anything to stop them but the weight/size of the XR650R will and just use an aftermarket steering lock. I think the XR650R also looks better and has more character. I love that the XR650R is carburated and kickstart it adds a lot of character to the bike. Fuel injection is nice but the electric start is boring, weighs more and not as reliable as kickstart.
It was a sad day when honda discontinued the xr650r. I thought it would replace the xr500/600/650L. The mx based bikes are ok but i miss a big reliable trail bike with a comfy seat.
Go on Craigslist and get Yourself one.
As far as curing on highway twitchiness in the 650r, I’ve found that raising the forks 8mm in the triples solves that issue. The race bike used by Campbell used a Cr 500 shock which was 5mm taller. If that shock is used with the stock triple and the forks all the way down in the triple the highway ocilations are gone. To get the same thing with the stock xr 650r shock, raise the forks 5-8 mm. The stock shock is shorter than the cr 500 shock by 5mm. You don’t lose that much ground clearance and the bike turns better in the tight stuff. Try it!!!
Thanks, I'll try it. I've notice the front fairings cause a lot of turbulence at freeway speed. I though about trimming them or heating them up and bending the front inward.
What do you think?
@@yourfacelookslikebut Wind is wind is wind is wind. The fact that your body is an upright wind target much larger than any fairings, would lead me to believe that modifying the fairings would have little impact. You need those to duct air over the radiators especially at low speeds. So of it were me I wouldn’t modify them. I ride sport bikes too and fly planes. Lots of fairings. Sometimes your a sail and sometimes not.
I have a plated 2002 uncorked 650r. It is the most fun on two wheels I’ve ever had and I’ve ridden a lot of different types of bikes. That being said if Honda came out with a 650r with e-start, fuel injection, and 6 speed tranny I would be in heaven. Oh hi husqvarna 701! Also, I don’t ride that hard but I get 40-50 mpg pretty easily on the streets.
Yes I don’t know why Honda doesn’t bring back the 650r and make it FI with a street legal option it would be a home run!
@@Motor-City_Ben-Dieselit’s the emission game that changed the course
Great honest review, I regret selling my 650R everyday .
Hands down one of the best bikes ever made!!!
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 this is good thanks. I am looking at 1 of these, had the XRR but sold it, now have 2018 CRF1000L2 but also want something for trail riding now. I flew from Cabo to Dallas, rode the XRR from Denton Texas over 1000 miles back to Cabo, Baja . The XR650R was absolutely flawless. Rode it a few years in Baja mountains, all smiles. Now looking at used plated XRR’s and the 450L, plus the 250L.
😁 perfect timing for your video!
Hey mike i love your stoke!!!! All those bikes in your garage you will be a happy man🤘🏻
I really like your approach and style. Been watching your Baja stuff too. I'd look forward to a ride sometime and collaborating content. Keep up the good work!
It's a shame Honda didn't make it a 500cc with 500 ml more oil capacity .
Still a great bike though
I've been riding my xr650r since 2002.
I've taken that bike on so many single track rides.
It is still going strong in 2024.
Very good review, like you say different bikes different people and countries, the CRF is ideal for tight trails in the Uk and the R is perfect for wide open spaces. I will pick my CRF up Friday , lots of mods to do but mainly tyres. Thank you Bermcannon again
Thanks for watching mr s 😎 enjoy your new bike👍
Tires should definitely be high on the list, the stocker IRC's absolutely blow off-road. I ended up with a Goldentyre 216AA 90/100 Fatty up front and a tried and true Dunlop D606 outback in the 120/90 flavor. They've completely transformed my confidence on the trails, no more fear of the front washing out from under me and the rear digs until it holds now. Congrats on the new 450L, you'll love it!
Personally I'd buy both. The XR for commuting and long tours and the CRF for going out on a day trip to hoon around the trails or do hooligan stuff in town
Exactly! Post of the years😎
I’m the Mad Max type guy but I want FI and electric start. I want an updated XR, DR, and DRZ.
Great videos. Just found you so I’m watching old videos. Thanks
Thanks Larry! Yes a 2021 CRF650R would be amazing. 🤙🏻
Great review that gets to the point. I love the new CRF450L but a part of me wishes Honda would bring back a modern day XR650R that would be street legal. Guess I’m wishful thinking 😆 Nothing will ever come close
Yup. A 2021 efi xr650r 🤘🏻
Trust me, Honda would love to give their customers what they want. It's the emissions laws that have killed the 650 singles, not the manufacturers.
If they did it would be extremely expensive .. :(
But well worth it!! 😢
They're bolth sexy af the 650 gives such a nostalgia and makes mw wanna drive through baja
The XRR completely dominates this comparo in my opinion. It looks mean, tough, timeless and ultra reliable. All it needs is the e-start.
And 6th gear
Xr650r can be started while wearing flip flops if it’s tuned correct and maintained.
I got to agree with you bud..at least from what I"ve researched on both these bikes. Also spot on when you said you feel sorry for the manufacturer's these days haha! Been looking for the perfect duel sport-adventure bike and I'm not sure it exist. The DR-Z 400e street legal comes pretty close but the gearing spread sucks for Hwy and tight trail combo.Call me old school but if I got rid of the DR it would probably be for an XR 600r...watched an old clip of Johnny Campbell riding one back in the day and man.. you would never know it was outdated..pretty Impressive! :)
Joe. Johnny Campbell started it all for me. In 2001 I watched Johnny Race a 650 at the Adelanto Grand Prix and you have to realize at this time it was all two strokes but the thunder of the 650 coming into the motocross section and watch Johnny jump the water jump and blowout berms and then hit 90 mph on the pavement section just blew my mind as a young motorcross’er
@@bermcannonk Thats awesome! As you probably know Scott Summers is another one that liked to beat up on the 2 strokers with his XR. Check out Fox MX Terrafirma 3 on you tube. Opening scene is Johnny riding that 600r with a chopper chasing Him through the dessert.. pure legendary!
I agree about feeling sorry for the manufacturers in this day and age, it's impossible to please everyone and it's getting even harder to please even a slight majority. Changing terrain and riding conditions due to location, rider abilities, rider demands and preferences, it's all too skewed for a manufacturer to encompass it all in one bike. All of that combined with the immediate gratification expectations of our modern "me first" society and it's no wonder that every review of any one bike seems to be all over the place.
Personally I see this bike as a full on street legal Enduro bike that has much better on-road characteristics than its direct competitors and a slight nod of dual-sport function which the others lack in all respects. Think KTM/Husky 450's and 500/501, that's the company the 450L keeps and while it's slightly heavier (easily remedied with a few choice mods), it has a better chassis and suspension, a stronger sub-frame, full led lighting, a third piston ring, better service intervals, and the legendary Honda reliability and dealer/parts network to back it up. Shed a few pounds and buy under MSRP and this is a fantastic bike.
maintanance??????
If I own either of these bikes next I'll be happy
that light is bad ass on the 600r
Great video 👍 service intervals : XR650R = almost none existent and so easy to work on 👍
If Honda worked some HRC magic on the CRF450L and produced it with the same 650r motor 😀 now that would be an awesome weapon CRF650R 🎉🎉🎉 till that time comes I'm sticking with the XR650R because there's else like it in my opinion pure awesomeness ✌️👌😀
I forgot to mention that and that’s a good point and another good point I forgot to mention in the video is the 650 is more stable because of its weight on the trail and that’s a big thing to me in a lot of cases it’ll save you when you hit a pothole or a rock it’ll stay on track rather with the 450 it’ll kick you off
Bermcannon : yer I've been there "the brown pants moments" you close your eyes for that impact 😖 only to open them a second later to find everything is good and the xr as just saved my life 😇 again, and just keeps on going motoring through anything in its way 😏 I love it .
Exactly and you know that is a quality that is forgotten i think when these bikes are designed. Light bikes aren’t always best.
650R is a open territory beast, with fuel injection, a rebound and compression rear shock, and new technology forks and maybe a key. It’d be dual sport nirvana. It’s a real slog through tight single track because it’s a big bruiser but fire roads beg to hear the thunder of the 650R. 😎
Tony Bjorklund this is gospel Tony!!!!🤙🏻
How are handlebar vibrations on the 650R on longer freeway rides? Does anyone get numb hands?
No
I have a plated electric start xr650r and it's so cool.
I have a 2002 XR650R that I'm restoring. Where can I buy that round headlight that's on the R in this video? Any suggestions?
Trailtech
Next time dont add the clapping lol
that totally threw me off haha
It was funny..
I agree 100% with John M why can't Honda update Xr650r some need to Design Fuel injection kit I am sure that on the could redesign the XR650 3 lighter be more efficient divider
Dont need efi. Just fcr swap the carb.
That was an awesome review!!🎉
which tank is that on the xr650...? never seen it in my country they are smaller I guess...the hole where you put the gas doesnt go so high above the seat like this one. Where can I find this one? thank you
Just remeasured my fork tubes. They are at 10mm above the top triple clamp. No high speed twitchiness @ 100mph in the steering. Originally the tubes were flush with the top triple clamp. The bike had an oscillation at high speeds on the highway. If I leaned forward it went away. Leaning back it came back. Lowered the front end by 10mm. All good. Had also set sag as per a conversation with precision concepts. So the sag was good. Forks set up by them (valved and sprung) and used their recommended shock spring for my weight. Im using the stock shock.
Mine are at 5mm the twitch isn’t bad but compared to the L there is a difference. Thanks for watching ✊🏼
No bike does everything right, people will always find something to complain about. I do find it funny how the xr650r never really caught on when it was introduced and people sneered at them. Fast fwd a decade and they are in serious demand on the used market.
Preach my brotha! #truth
Do you have a build sheet somewhere for your XRR somewhere? I would love to know all you've done to it as I'm soon to be building one myself. Thanks.
Good review/compare....the 450 seems to be a good bike. Trouble is us XR650R owners will love that bike forever and it's just a unique, and awesome bike. I have an Xt660z Tenere as well to keep the mileage down on the XR650R, I hope I can keep it going forever! I took the new Triumph scrambler XE out for a test ride recently and it was a great bike, but riding home from the Triumph dealers on the XR650R it reaffirmed what an amazing bike it is , with suspension ahead of its time. I'm proud to have an XR with it's great racing pedigree, from Baja to Dakar! Cheers, Steve
That’s funny when you go to a dealership and try riding a bike that’s 20 years newer and ride home on a bike that you’re still content with 😂
Nice comparison but its getting hard to find Dominators anymore, especially out here on the East Coast. I was a Honda tech years ago and enjoyed the XR650L as a beginner rider but never got a chance to ride a 650R. That being said, the 450L is an amazing bike and is finally a dirt worthy dual sport from Honda. Im so stoked to own one. It definitely needs the efi managed for East coast single track due to the abrupt throttle but otherwise, it’s awesome. I wont diss the 650 tho. I drove to my local Honda dealer to look at one initially til I saw the CRF discounted down to $8000. That made the choice a hell of a lot easier.
Truth Kurt!!!
Great video! I've had my XR650R for 19 happy years. Although there have been times I've desired the amenities of modern bikes, I could never part with my BRP. Instead, I've modified mine to include everything I could ever want in a "does everything" bike and it just keeps getting better with age. A nice facelift with a Squadron Pro and sleeker front fender gives all the modern styling and lighting performance of newer bikes. Throw in legendary performance, reliability and history, what's not to love? Here's a video I made of mine a few months ago, after some upgrades. ua-cam.com/video/xDk5QlNAw3s/v-deo.html Since making this video, I've now also upgraded to a C-Fab electric starter kit, Ignitech programmable DC CDI, Trail-Tech gauges, heated grips, USB charger and a clean custom dash I fabricated. It's like falling in love all over again. Whenever thoughts about other bikes come to mind, I spend most of my time thinking about building another XR650R (supermoto perhaps) then I do even looking at what's new out there. Long live the big red pig.
Hi :) I have a chnce to buy a xr650r. i want to ask you, about highway speed, i know the bike is capable, and not for highway riding, but still, how much is the vibration ? If i change the sprokets, could it be not so vibration ? :) thank you.
Just came across this video, and have been and always will have an XR650R in the stable. There is a great modern front end upgrade. The polisport / KTM front fender adapter allows you to put a 16+ KTM front fender and headlight ( with Baja Squadron ) on the XR and gives it a really modern look.
Thanks troy for the recommendation. Welcome to my channel. 🤙🏻
Honda is stupid for stopping production on the BRP.. Fucking Stupid. I am on my third. Only because of financial situations. These new bikes look like some weird Nike shoe.
I love your hate 😂 im with ya brotha🤙🏻
My 07 650r was a monster, stupid heavy with oversized tank being a 155lb dude, threw up a wheelie and slipped shattered elbow, I'll be getting a L.
I just pick up 250L what mods do recommend for better sound and speed or torque
Where you located?
13 tooth front sprocket. I'd leave the exhaust stock.
I've had 3 BRP in the past, loved them, I see them for sale locally for $2500 to 3k unmolested a couple times a year, and I think a out a sumo conversion as I sleep, lol
I have a 18 ktm450 xcf, well suspended, fast and 6 speed conversion, for dirt racing, would make a good sumo(maybe faster than a xr650r ), but how long will it last :(
I had an edelbrock in one of mine, lol, maybe smartcarb has a version now.
Honda, BIG thank you, we all WIN
XR650R
CRF450x(2019 and up, WOW)
CRF450L(don't have one, the FI 450x it just too good, lol)
CRF250x
Hey man, so I ride a XR400R with all the Gordon’s mods, 93 octane wise co piston & valves pumper carb ETC, would it be realistic to move to a XR650R or L (hard to find clean either here in Canada), I don’t wanna spend a lot of money on a 450, when I could have the big brother to my XR400R instead. I love my 400 but eventually I’m gonna outgrow it because of my young age (21)
Hey Mark is the Dominator have a steering stabalizer?
No Sir. I used to be about running those but I haven’t in the last 5 to 7 years
long live the BRP. I have a couple of questions about your XR, can you make a video or let me know about what wheels your running and the light is that a high/low version or just a pure driving light. And just so you know I just purchased a BRP after watching your Baja videos.
Thank you sir 🙏🏼 for the support. Have you watched this one?
ua-cam.com/video/GT6BzXiERsI/v-deo.html
legendary XR for me it look like old but sick bike.
Great bikes. I still ride the hell out of my 1980 XL250s with no issues.
When all is said and done... The XR is still a bike for real men with big balls and loads of testosterone.
Thank you paul. 😂🤙🏻
The XR won every category that actually mattered except highway riding… and I’d bet it would win that if it was properly setup… it’s heavier and heavier always equals more stability and comfort on the highway. Good rip though…I enjoyed it.
Hahaha, "like sitting on a sofa"? Dude, love your videos, and I'm absolutely in love with my BRP, but that's "a bit" biased, unless you change the stock seat! I'd choose a cactus over the XR stock seat after a couple of days of riding! :D
EU bikes came with a steering lock like the CRF450L, and you can probably install one on yours quite easily! So I'd say this is a tie!
Also ease of use, the lack of e-start on the XR650R is a pain, as a lot already mentioned in the comments.
Love the videos, keep it up! :)
Thx sergios🙏🏼 this video was more of a honorable mention for both bikes.
Totally agree, I own one (EU), that seat is a nightmare! The steering lock isn't the safest on the planet, but it does have one :)
Really need to have a category for ease of starting, ie kick start or electric start.
Yes if you now the routine of starting the 650r it’s pretty easy, but still not as easy as the
Push button start. Where electric start is really nice is technical, hill climbs or dunes stalling out….😮
3600 miles on my crf450l. Had it since sept 22nd of 2018. I can’t imagine anything else
Its a good bike. I like it alot. 😎
You think it's a bike that will hold up for 20 yrs? I've always been a fan of XR's. Finally took the top end off my 03 just because I wanted to put a 440 kit on it. My brother has an 84 that's as clean as you'll ever find one and still has never had the top end off. I just hope Honda doesn't shoot themselves in the foot by over complicating things.
Bob Brown your right let’s hope those valves don’t move
How reliable has it been? What's the maintenance like? Is it as good as a Drz400 ?
I got an xr650r but the LED lights wont work????
I fixed the relay and everything it's the new tusk kit on Amazon
Great review Mark. I am a believer in the XR's. As my bud and I have flogged 4 XR 250's in Baja .Each bike having at least 20,000 miles on them in Baja before we sold them. And only one of them had anything engine wise done to it. ( I wanted more horsepower and installed a big bore kit.) As far as reliability you can't ask for more than that. As far as the honda 450 . I have watched the last 2 dakar events where the 450's of brabec have grenaded themselves. The new style engines just need more service and I mean all makes of offroad race bikes. Only time will tell on the crf.
Jeff this is all true. Time will tell.
I grew up in Fla. Have raced and ridden since 13 yrs old...60yrs old and still holding. I have owned a CR500R 85 in my open class MS days. I almost bought a 650r a few years back, but the Irish moto owner could not get it started. I know these big handss have a starting process. Soooo as I migrate to Dual sporting in my golden years kicking a motor cycle is NO fun at my age. Being an East coaster tiggt woods technical rider who also rode baja on a slam dunk weekend. My only beef with your review is I think most riders do not want to kick a motorcycle with a coffe can size piston. I still think if I could have started the Big Red Pig it would be in my garage. Another point the Irishman said is if the going gets slow even with fans...overheat. so thats my two cents and the masses have been waiting on the 450L!
Thx Richard this comparison was really just for fun 😎
@@bermcannonk Thanks for all you did... I really enjoyed. The scoring was spot on. I know taking the time to do a "Dirt Bike Magazine" shootout takes time. Your comparison was short and sweet!
Cheers, I really enjoyed that comparo. I have a real soft spot for older Honda trail bikes. Spent a fair bit of time on a Dominator (road and town hack), 750 AT, XR400, XR650R and L. Great all rounders but bush pigs. They are really hard to kill and will go anywhere eventually. I have a very unusual spanner to throw into the mix.. Japanese home market bike but grey imported into a few countries, not the US as far as I know. The CRM 250R MKII 2 stroke. I have a 93 and it is brilliant, still starts first kick and runs like a Swiss watch. About 130kg wet, a very generous 40hp (FMF pipe adds a couple of angry stallions), 6 speed, nice, thick seat and 70 - 80 mph cruising. It does like petrol, though. It would be fascinating to throw one into the mix. I can still get all parts for it, too. amazing.
How long do top ends on that 250R last?
@@v1kku Mine was checked at 20'000km and had very little wear. Will check again at 30 thousand.
I like that big head light on that domi natot
How about E-Start ?? bing bing bing! worth a few points. I loved my 650R and I didn't mind the pig on tight trails. However, I think I would have been more adventurous down in canyons or hill climbs if I had E-start. Thats Huge because a dirt bike should confidently take us almost anywhere.
Good point mx tinter. But Real men kick bikes not because we want to but because we have to😂
Dont stall the bike an you'll be good
I have two 650R’s and the only time I can’t start my bikes is when I’m in water over the pegs. That doesn’t happen to often. 😅
I love my klr650. My BMW gsa800 is just like glass to it's so damn smooth it's insane i think. One thing I don't like about the 450 is the oil change interval. Sucks Cali makes you add more restrictive exhaust and intakes
Good point. Cali continues to crumble everyday day.
So nice to see an xr650r doing what it was made to do such a shame when people waste an awesome bike to make a super moto. Cool vid 👍
Lol. No kidding 😂 i agree Enzo!
I’ve never really understood the whole super moto thing.
@@jasonbarton7189 Try one and you understand ! I get the purist view of not converting to SM , but try a factory SM like a 701 . It's the ultimate city bike. Light ,nimble , narrow for filtering and a lot of fun
umm, you do realise its a 25min job to change sumo wheels to dirt wheels (and visa versa), right?????? and proper sumo includes dirt anyway... (just no mud) and if you can't understand the attraction of doing jumps, dirt/gravel, and peg crapping lean angles on the same bike withing a few minutes, then there is no hope for you! Supermoto its the rally cross of 2 wheels, 2 bikes is one...
Nice comparison but its like you elude to in your video, not every bike is for every rider. People fit these bikes differently. Do you have a video on your 650 Headlight and stator upgrade?
Sorry Tim no video on my head light 😎
@@bermcannonk Would love to see one if you ever feel the motivation to produce it. I cant be the only old codger out there who would like to still upgrade their XRR Headlamp. Might be a big hit for you...just saying.
Yes!
Nice video. Why do you call it a Dominator? The Honda Dominator was the same engine as the XR650L and was quite a few years before the XR650L/R
Dominator refers to johnny campbells championship run aboard this bike.
good review. sad that the 650R didn't have continued development. also sad about the price of bikes nowadays. even adjusted for inflation a 650R should cost about $8,900 in todays dollars.
I have faith that we see a Efi 650 one day🤔
Great review mate 👍
Yeah,in some situations the extra weight with the 650 helps with stability,but i have had times at decent speeds when the 650 starts to go and there was no amount of muscle that was going to bring it back and having a miserable day:)
The CRF450L isn't even a consideration for me but I really appreciate the comparison video. I've had an XR650L for a few years now and after about 3 years bothering my buddy about his XRR, I am going to sell my L and buy the R this year.
The R is much better for sure!
You say "guy" a whole lot. I'm a girl, and I freaking love my XR650R. No hard feelings, just throwing it out there that motorcycle enthusiasts and riders are not all men :) Thx for the video tho. Enjoyed it!
Sorry Maria, now I know😎 thanks for watching.
@@bermcannonk Hey thanks for the reply. Appreciate that. And I'm def enjoying your videos. Just subscribed. Thanks
Lol.. the word guys can be used to describe a group of people women included. The word man same thing. Mankind... ✌
Did I watch a show where you built the 650R for a Baja excursion?
I think 🤔
Maybe could have added a standard “weight” category. The XR is a heavy bike no matter what.
The CRF can be easily lightened by swapping the pipe. 🏁👍🏽
They weigh pretty close to the same, actually.
@@Maccaroney I put my xr650r on a scale and is was 298 lbs wet with ~1 gallon of fuel.
@@yourfacelookslikebut yeah mine was ~310 with 4 gallons, dual sport kit, and a rear rack.
It kills me when people say the BRP is heavy. For a 650 it’s not even close to heavy.
Where can I get a build parts list on the Dominator would love to build my own
Here ya go
www.google.com/amp/s/dirtbikemagazine.com/ultimate-dual-sport-xr650r-remake/
Bermcannon thanks!!
@@bermcannonk Hey man Thx for the amazing content I Just picked up my own 2002 XR650R and would like to do the exact same build as your, I'm in Palmdale CA area and would love to come down and get introduced to this tight knit XR family and maybe go on one of your rides. Feel free to contact me to see if we can make that happen! as always keep up the great work.
XR650R wins because it’s the XR650R. I bought mine new in 2007 to replace my 1982 XL500R that I rode from CT to WY when I was 16. We looked like the Beverly Hillbillies packed for the trip. Figured on doing it again on XR. Bulletproof as you say. 650 turns 1,000 rpm less than 450 at top speed. Better oil situation for unending weeks of highway riding. Figured more torque for timber sled track conversion. I got a great start at Southwick MX338 with it 8 years ago (and did lousy from there) . I’ve enjoyed snapping around on a 450 a few times, but I prefer my 1996 CR250 for such. I still have everything. 82 has best seat, but man, sounds like your destroying it at 60mph. I was 16 and knew nothing else. My father was awesome on his identical bike for the trip, but he was nearly wrecked on the way back being 22 years older than me. I now realize I’m off topic somewhat. I had to throw all that in there as I typed
One more category for the tie breaker: Fun Factor
Different tools for the job
I agree. 😎👍
Great review. Thanks.
Thanks Warren
Interms of reliability old school is better than new school.
The BRP is simply too hard to use due to being kickstart only. It will gather cobwebs as the electric start and EFI of the CRF450L will spoil anybody. I maintain an '87 XL600R and it gathers cobwebs as the electric start and EFI of my CRF250L spoils me.
Should have bought a few more 650r’s for the price of the 450
Good luck doing that in the UK they cost a bomb her now for the xr
The xr650l had that steering lock set up aswell
Great comparison. I'm seriously thinking of scaring up a BRP even 4 years later. But it's poor mileage isn't because of that massive piston. It's because technology has passed it by. KTM's even larger, more powerful 690 gets over 50mpg.
CRF450L is an enduro not a dual sport. Honda should update the xr650l and make it lighter, fuel injected and 6 speed. 450l has too short of service intervals. 600 mile oil changes, 1800 valve adjustments
The 650R is an awesome bike that could have been even better with a 6th gear over drive for better high speed cruising and and electric start. Mine kick started real easy, but we are all spoiled now by modern bikes. I like the fact that it had a carb rather than FI, gives you more confidence getting 100 miles out into the middle of nowhere.
@@nvmcrider8475 they needed a lower first for tight work. a six speed that's spread out (a little) more. i bought my first one in 01 and am on my third one now...
i like 'em a lot. speed, power, grunt, handling, brakes, dependability...
The 450L is a dual sport not an enduro that’s why it comes street legal from the factory, If it was an enduro it wouldn’t have indicators etc just a headlight and taillight like the wr450
@@honda8192 the same wr450f is road legal here in NZ (and Australia) off the showroom floor - where is your argument now?? Heck, even the 300exc I had was road legal... so the erzberg winning bike is not an enduro now because its road legal!? haha
I have a 650r and I love the thing low end power makes hill climbs effortless but the but sucks in the tight stuff over heats and front end tends to push id like to get on the new 450l and she how it does my buddy has a 450x and the throttle is super jumpy and tends to stall at low speeds
ryan, I chose the 450L over the XR650 because I was afraid of overheating issues living in the desert. Had the XR been liquid cooled it might have been my choice. Though a radiator, jacket and coolant would have added more weight to an already heavy bike,
@@jasonbarton7189 you're getting the 650L mixed up with this 650R...
Alex you are correct
Your old xr650r isn’t the best looking one I’ve come across and the crf is just a ktm copy the xr650r is for men. The crf is new and nice. You should have had a more standard 650r without the mods. Just just comparing your own mods against a nice new unmolested bike
I’m not impressed Honda should made a electric starter xr650r Your test is just wrong I’ve owned a lot of xr650r s and there gods gift to dirt bikers when your crf is in a skip. Your xr will be ready for a service. Big over engineered engines last forever
Thanks paul. This video was really to trigger xr650r owners 😂 maybe honda will see how we really want a new 650
No one would like that more than myself I’ve owned over 60 XR650r s I think I have around 20 at the moment I went to Scotland last week on a 650r. Europe last year I have supermoto enduro trail and flat track Monnier Delara Paris Daker bikes. I’ve built and worked on them for the last twenty years And designed and manufactured parts for them. I’ve also had crf s. Great bike but come with short lifespan. They fall to pieces and aren’t worth anything after a few years The XR650r is up there with all the other HRC bikes like the RC30/ RC45 / NR750/ XL600Daker/ RCV s. And 2005 fireblade A crf is just a good dirtbike when a new model comes out everyone forgets the old exist. The XR650r go’s up in value. It’s a legend.
If Honda did bring a new one out it would probably be a disappointment. I was told by someone at Honda if they built a bike of they standard today no one pay the high cost.
the new Africa twin cost double what a xr cost. With a steel frame and wheels that rust and the gold come off. Cheep bike high price tag
If that the best the Honda accountants will give us I’ll keep my original. But if honda HRC did build a new one
And make it the same but with a bigger tank better lighting comfier seat bigger brakes and rads with fan. electric start more protection around the drive sprocket and make it 700cc or 750cc. But keep same frame and look. I’d sell them by the truck load. I still think your putting a sorry looking XR650r against a beauty queen crf if you tested one of my xr s against the crf it wouldn’t get any points. But good vid and all the best. Porsche 911 is still going. Land Rover. So why not.
Paul Gibbard did you say you have 20 xr650r bikes right now?
Bermcannon
yes if you go on Pinterest or google a lot of the xr650r s are mine the good one’s anyway. Xr650r.co.uk
Don’t be a girl and kick that shit. Don’t need electric start
It would make complete sense to have a 6th gear. On my 2nd xr650l love it but it does struggle on the highway but enjoy the price tag over the crf450l it should be half of it a drz 400 is not over 10k
What are your thoughts on a 2008 xr650r with under 300 miles on it? The local shop emailed saying they are getting one this week to cosign if I wanted to stop by and look at. What are they selling for used these days?
Scott if plated... here in California the xr650r is going for 3500-4500. Check to see if its a “L” model or “R”
@@bermcannonk It's an R and I'm told street legal.
You forgot ease of starting and ease of altitude changes
Great Combo of bikes to have!
It’s 2022 and you can still buy a brand new XR650 for about $6,500. So they will probably continue to make parts for that for a long time to come.
As far as weight goes the XR looks like it would be heavier to pick up if you were to go down. Especially with bags and gear. I ride a 2000 kx 250 now and really light weight. Looks like the 450 would be a little more manageable in tighter spaces as well.
wish i had a 650 r,ive never had a chance to ride one.
What if: Honda come out with a new and improved 650, would you still buy the 450?
I know, maybe not comparable, but a new improved 650, lighter, maybe 6 speed and fuel injected as some of you guys already mentioned?
That does sound like a sweet deal though 😁
Yes! I would buy 2 😂
I wish Kawasaki did this to the KLR650 - added EFI, dropped 50 lbs and added six speeds. That would’ve been the ultimate dual sport.
@@jasonbarton7189 lol the klr650 could afford to loose more than 50lbs, and it's needs better suspension, I hated my klr650..... But love my klx250s
Yeah 6-speed would have been the thing the best thing. I have an XR 600 and I got to run 15/42 gearing, which leaves me with a super high first gear my poor clutch. But I live in open desert and that thing will go straight through the desert at full speed I pass four fifties all the time. Electric starts way too heavy my 600 does good in the tight spots cuz mine is so light at under 300 LBS.
LOL
i own a xr 650 but that crf just looks so insanely good.
I don't think a single 450l has found a buyer here i Sweden...
It sure as hell wont be me.
I just got done riding my 450l and it was so fast I went back in time and watched a UA-cam video of some guys xr650r. Lol
No comment lol
XR looks tuff af.
Xr650r please. Honda needs to trash the l and put a road legal r in its place fuel injection and 6 speed
Saying a style is just outdated is just overkill
For my budget, XR 650 ideal, but money no object, CRF for sure!
ME QUEDO CON MI XR-600R! ESTÁ BESTIA NO HAY CON QUE DARLE!💪💪✌🇦🇷🇦🇷
Curious how you give HP to the 650 when, well it is rated lower?
Hey jeff explain not following you?
@@bermcannonk I looked it up and the 650 is less than 40 hp and the 450 is more than 40 hp. Seems incorrect to give the HP edge to the 650. Gearing could make it feel that way and kill top end, and that big piston probably edges the torque in the 650's favor.
Jeff Hanson Good point Jeff ...the 650 in the video is not stock. but that could be a good video where the two bikes can be compared ultimately on a Dino.
@@bermcannonk Yes it would my guess is the 450 still wins because uncorked with new mapping it should go up close to 60 hp I'm thinking. Not sure a carbureted 650 will be able to match that.
Jeff Hanson a