This is such a valuable take. Spend your cash on gas folks and get out there. Nobody wants to drop a bike that’s 15k or more. Seriously, spend your cash on the adventure and just get out there. I have been riding for years, many bikes, my gen 2 KLR is covered in scars and has 75k kms on it. Still starts and runs like the day I brought it home with basic maintenance. So many great stories and memories. Just get out there and ride folks. The upscale bikes can limit you, because it’s too much of an investment to damage. That is the one survival reaction that many riders can’t overcome. 😉
Well said. It's hard to sift through the millions of dollars spent marketing and what we think we need for epic adventures. This is a great example and just like you said, save initial high buy-in and use that for gas, upgrades, adventures and cross country trips. Life is short.
I just picked up my preowned 89’ TransAlp xl600v from a friend. I have been waiting six years for her to finally sell it to me. Not time to start slowly preparing for a Florida to Alaska round trip. 😊
I think the most important message here should be that you can do adv riding with much less budget. I started on old transalp that was like 1400$ and was in almost perfect shape and was riding with cheap helmet, jeans and military boots. I regret nothing 😅 Like with all expensive hobbies, it can be done with almost any budget if you really want to enjoy it.
I'm 69 years old. I had been a touring bike rider my entire adult life. I bought a (new) klr 650 in 2009 for a ride to Prudoe Bay (from Seattle) thinking I'd sell it after that trip. But... I've kept that bike as my primary bike to this day because it is sooooo much fun.
I have a gen 3 KLR, I might sell it. Since I have another commuter bike, I don’t ride the KLR that much. Then again, the KLR didn’t cost that much relatively speaking, so it’s ok to keep it around since all motorcycles depreciate anyways. We all need more videos on affordable motorcycle riding. This is what we need.
KLRs hold their value well, at least if you buy secondhand. You can get a 22+ for $5k or maybe a bit more, and I assume they’ll have a price floor of $4k for probably the next decade
What i liked best is that even though you don't like the KLR, you proved that you CAN get into riding (bike, accessories, protective clothing) at a very reasonable cost. Luxury and "nice to have" items can come later!
This is why I got the KLR. Low price of just over 5k for a leftover 2023 S model. It can pretty much do everything without being too much of a commitment financially.
My personal opinion. If you have any bike in the garage, take it moto camping first. Especially if you live on the East side of the US where there is little to no public land you can off road on. Any bike can take you on an adventurer and there are lots of camp sites not far off pavement and many camp sites are paved too. Most bikes will make it down any dirt/gravel road graded for semi-trucks. Every type of bike has made it up the Dalton and Dempster highways. There is so much to see on roads in NA that you really shouldn't wait to tour them. Then if you find yourself wanting to go down more difficult trails then look at getting a ADV bike.
It’s great to see that you’re going back and keeping us updated on the KR 650s and also the average Joe what they can afford on gear. And it’s great that you can donate the gear to someone that really needs it. Continue making videos on the KR 650 also, maybe you could find one that’s fully equipped with custom features like my bike.😂
Well done. I think the ADV crowd needs a video like this every once in a while, myself included. I often find myself trying to justify a bike with a higher MSRP than my car, and riding gear that costs just as much as my entire wardrobe. I got into motorcycling to do cool stuff and go amazing places, not to look at a shiny bike that I can't afford to take on a trip farther away than the grocery store. Despite you being honest and pointing out the KLRs many shortcomings, I feel like your series on this bike has convinced more people to get one than dissuaded.
Great vid. I bought myself brand new Benelli trk702x for less then 8000 euros. I take it to mountains(even though its heavy and I don't recommend it unless you can handle weight) long trips. Often riding to seaside, Croatia offer great roads with amazing sight. Bike came with topcase, crash bars, great pirelli scorpion tires, high windshield and its pretty comfortable for me, I can take around 200kms before I need pause. My wife loves it as well. I do lot of riding with friends and some of them do have Ducatis and bmws, and they say this bike is amazing value what I paid. Low cost maintenance too. Just another proof to confirm your video :)
There's a famous 4wd track in Western Australia called the Holland Track (an old stock route inland), and recently, my brother's sister in law did that track with her husband and dad. They were both on dual sports, and she was on a gen 2 klr. For reference, she weighs around 55-60 kg, so that is a big bike for her. The track is a mix of gravel, mud, clay, huge ruts, and deep sand toward the end. She actually broke ger foot on the first day, and managed to ride that bike 600km with a broken foot with no problems. The point I'm making with this anecdote is basically that you don't need to have the best, most expensive, lightest, whatever else-est bike in the world. If a 60kg chick with a broken foot can ride a klr through some pretty tricky terrain, most of us can manage it, no worries. That gave me a heck of a lot of respect for both her and the klr
Shine man. Bring your own spit. Like them slick and shiny. Good vid Ian. Topics covered a lot of issues beginning riders can experience. Get started where ever you can and just do it. Get out there and ride and enjoy life all you can. Go as far as you can afford while you are young and especially without a lot of responsibility. I'm glad I did. Try not to let life get in the way of living. Nicer more expensive stuff will come in time if you want it. Sooner or later you'll look back and say I liked it better when it was simple and more affordable. These are absolutely the best of times for motorcycling. So much great affordable gear available and the bikes in reality are incredible. Trying to do this 50 to 60 years back when I started was almost impossible. All good from east Kentucky USA Nomad Mountain Man Next time
Thanks Ian for that great video. It’s always good to take it back to the basics and see what you need to start off riding. And then as we get more experienced, we buy more gear. Thank you for taking it back to the basics. Looking forward to the next video. Thank you.
My friend and I are buying two this coming spring. we waited for the 25's to come out. both stock so, we can set them up the way we want them. with so many aftermarket parts, you can build a low priced, adventure bike, with endless options
I call the OEM tires "Break in tires." I just run them until it's broken in and then slap some Tusk DSport tires on. I'm too cheap to toss brand new tires, even if they suck. Good review. It's a great all-around budget bike. The VW Beetle of motorcycles.
I buy budget bikes out of principle, not because I need to. I save the money for better fitting, higher quality gear and better food. I appreciate this video more than the GS budgetless videos and am excited about you potentially building up a budget project bike (plated XR400?)!
Great review and product selection. I got rid of my KLR's last year. I traded one for a KLX 351 and sold the other to partially offset the purchase of my TransAlp. I do still miss the KLR however, I found it a great do everything bike and encouraged me to take my time and wander around more than I do with the TA.
@@BigRockMoto There is no luck or there would be no God. Jesus is waiting for you Ian. By the way, had the GS and it was just too heavy for jeep roads, rock gardens, and big $$ for maint. Actually the biggest problem was figuring how to make a 180 on a single lane dirt road when loaded. The KLR broke, but the DR650 looks better and lighter.
I just don't care about paying more for a bike when the payments are so low per month. I waited for 30 years to get another motorcycle and I was blessed to have the means to purchase it. Life is short and I am still paying it off, but I had cancer, survived and well... no guarantees. What I don't like is people trashing a comment section HATING people and motorcycles because of cost. I think that is especially true with BMW and KTM trash talk. Just nothing but jealousy and hatred for people who can afford an expensive bike. It is immature and pathetic that people live their lives with so much anger and use "socio-pathetic" media to spread their misery to others.
Good overview on a solid budget setup. This kind of bike and gear is what gets more people interested. The KLR may be old and basic but it can do a lot of things for not a lot of money.
This is great information. I did splurge for a better helmet. I bought a 23 leftover Triump Tiger GT Explorer 1200 for $16,999($24k list price) so with the savings, I went to Cycle gear on their clearance sales. I bought a Shoei RF1400 and my first Cardo and $1100 for a helmet is a lot ( which includes the Cardo), but after riding around, it is well worth it. Cycle gear fitted me for the helmet and also installed the Cardo for free. I am new to long distance riding. I've had Tusk luggage on my old Royal Enfield Himalayan and decided to buy Trekker panniers and 46 liter top box for long distance traveling. I understand they are supposed to be waterproof, but i will run waterproof inner liners. Great video. I've bought a lot of stuff through your links
Can we take a moment and appreciate the tarnation kawasaki did with rear brake line? I think they were like: lets see with how much we can get away and people will still defend/buy it 🤣 What next, fuel lines under skid plate or mounted to headers?
Thanks for making this video Ian! You are making a great contribution to the sport and to support those who really want to do this but the cost holds them back. Getting out there with a friend on whatever bikes you have is the key! Only thing about boots is insuring that they have a stiff soleplate, standing up in soft sole boots is very uncomfortable!
Getting a sorted out second hand bike often makes so much sense. Some people put some serious love and money into their bikes, of which the buyer pays only a fraction, and the buyer and doesn’t have to go through the sorting out process. It’s essentially ’plug and play’ from the moment you take ownership. Thumpers like the DR, XR AND KLR 650s are solid units, older beemers if you want a big bike, any of the four stroke 250s, 400s, and some 450s are good options.
An idea for a future video - how to buy and setup an Android tablet similar to what @ItchyBoots uses for navigation as a lower cost alternative to a Garmin or similar
Good video. The illusion of ADV marketing. Doesn’t fit the reality of ADV riding. Ride and wear what you can afford and enjoy the ride . Still rocking my Gen 1 klr . 😂😂
Hopefully a lot more riders can get into motorcycle riding after listening to this! Go with what you can afford (even if it is a 50cc moped). What I regret buying, is the cheapest gear. But - not until I had used it for a while I knew why, and what I wanted/needed, so there might be a learning curve that is good. Buy the helmet that fits YOUR head - no matter the cost, just check that it is ECE approved. Dont go cheap and get a used helmet! If you cant afford a helmet - dont ride. I use HCJ helmet because if fits and I can afford it.
Great points. I'd suggest spending $ getting a comfortable hinged/lugged sole motocross boot you can walk in. I've ran Forma Predator boots riding my heavy vstrom in arizona simply for safety.
Very impressive set of bike and gear for the price, and a great place for a lot of people to dip their toe into adventure riding. Its less than half the investment of other adventure bikes while providing some big range and wind protection (and weight) without being high powered or worrying about dropping a bike that is 2-3x as much.
You really have helped me out making decisions on what I’m getting into…much appreciated!!!…your videos have “slowed down” my aneurysm from information overload….im 60, a retired Veteran who’s 6’ 260lbs….my concern is my weight + gear would make the small bike’s bottom out or have to work too hard. I come from a full dresser Harley world. Suggestions on bikes?
You may need upgrades springs no matter what bike you get. A KLR650 - standard height - is a good place to start for your size. A Tenere 700, Transalp 750 or V-Strom 800DE would be my top choices for your size and weight though.
My setup for riding is almost identical too what you have in this video bike clothes gps etc. Whats amazing I did it before I watched your video that very encourging too me!
Glad you went with all new for this. I've been trying to find a used KLR or XR650L or similar and the asking prices are close to current MSRP evint for 3-5 year old bikes. There really is no such thing as a cheap dual sport anymore!
Winter is a great time to buy a used bike and you might get one with most of the ADV gear you'll need. You'll have a few months to get it ready for adventures in the spring. If you only have $2000 to get started in ADV motorcycling, you can do it.
I'm still tooling around in my JDM Honda FTR 223 due to budgets, it still did a tour just fine on bad roads in Cambodia at moderate speed. All in with gear still wayyy below $3000.
Define your adventure. Is it going out to trails on weekend in a BDM group? LA-to-Vegas with your wife? Or LA-to-Patagonia on a 6 months trip? How about daily commute plus occasional any of above? There are only a few bike that check them all - one of that is KLR.
In Australia, anyone starting on a motorcycle needs to go through almost 4 years of restricted motorcycles. As these restricted motorcycles are generally cheaper, this kind of $8000 setup is almost unavoidable. I am now in my last year of restrictions and I cannot agree more that a) you can do almost everything with a "cheap" setup, and b) you just have to go out and do as much riding as you can.
Garmin Zumo XT2 seems a pretty solid worth it buy, I will add it to my shopping cart for sure, it is a bit expensive, although similar to modern cellphones nowadays.
I had the KLR for a few years. Fixed the doo-hickey, tried to fix the front brake, front brake line failed and it was gutless at higher RPMs. Should've started with the Yamaha T700. Or the DR 650.
I've had some pretty expensive bikes in my days. My last was a Suzuki 1050 V-Strom XT Adventure. Great bike with all accessories available. Traded it for a '23 KLR Traveler. I'm happier. Wonder why. 🤔
Funny, I'm in the market for my first bike this spring and $8k is the budget I'd already set for everything. Definitely considering a KLR but I'm leaning more toward a lighter 300 dual sport. Sadly the Himalayan and Ibex aren't options since the nearest dealers are 3 hours away.
Consider your spread between highway and single track trails. If you are riding primarily highway and duL track/fir roads, stick with the larger displacement bikes like the KLR. If the majority of your riding will be on tighter single tracks and goat trails with just a small amount of public roads to link them, then the 300 class if bike is suitable. This is why the 450s are gaining traction; they are a little more of an acceptable compromise to bridge the two - but still less than ideal for either.
I would have done a Versys-x 300 or a KTM 390 ADV instead. A lot more fun and maneuverable. But I understand you had that KLR on-hand so it was an opportunity to use it.
I am new to adventure riding. When my KLR is paid off in a couple years, I'll be getting an 800GS or something similar. I dont see the point of a 1,000 CC adventure bike.
Buy a CF Moto, some cheap bags, mid range body protection, some good boots and you're sorted mate. The big price hike for us was Brexit. Tech 7 boots in EU, €275. UK £400. Same with everything. It's worth taking a trip to France or Germany and kitting up.
You don’t need a new bike to have many new adventures. One my bikes I own now for 20 years is xtz750. It will outlast me. I’ve owned over 40 bikes and this bike has a smoothest engine I’ve ever had and it goes anywhere and does everything I also have a 1200 super ten. Buying new bike and then selling it with less than a few thousand miles then buying another expensive bike is a total waste of money not to mention bad for the environment. It’s usually snobbery and nothing else besides the older bikes with little or no technology or electronics are generally more reliable for longer trips. I did buy a 790 adventure.R which was over 10 grand but luckily I sold it before the camshaft issue became apparent. You only have to spend two or three grand max to get a really good reliable. Iyou don’t have to buy big brands for jackets and clothing. bikes and cars depreciate faster than a falling brick. Buy a reliable older bike don’t spend more than a couple of grand and you’re in business. It’s all marketing which is all BS. Most bikes will do 100,000 miles with regular oil changes and some of them to 200,000 like my XT 1200 Z. Also all these extra technology gadgets reduce your skill as a rider, traction control and ABS et cetera. Which skill you can be safer without them and be a better rider.
I did Patagonia on that bike and hated it, to heavy, to big, carries it weight to much in the top, wanna go cheap, go dr 650, so much more manageable, just my opinion.
I will chime in and say the KLR is not timeless. So many superior bikes at close to the same price point these days. Most have more power, never mind the displacement, handle far better, and weigh less. Granted it’s a tractor that will get you there and back again - just slowly.
Sorry I hate to call you out but all you “reviewers” do this shit and as a new moto rider it’s insulting and misleading. Your sheet says the KLR650 can be purchased for 5k, but that’s not true, at least not a new one. But the biggest pile of bs is that even it the tag says 5k, the bike will always cost you somewhere between 1500-2k higher and sometimes more, that the tag says. You should be more forthcoming with that info, again it’s misleading to potential future consumers. Aside from that, your reviews rock!! Do better and keep up the good work.
Out of touch how? Many people have been looking for a video just like this. Perhaps you think $8000 is still way too high? For many it is not. To those who may be considering getting their first dual sport bike and gear this is useful info. Could you buy used cheaper. Some people are willing to pay more to get a new bike with warranty and the confidence that it is less likely to give them issues, particularly if they are not comfortable wrenching on their own bike.
Still pimping that piece of crap?? The KLR is a grocery getter. It is NOT a LONG term option. It is an antiquated turd and is over priced if it were free.... In this day, with the options that are out there there is NO reason to even consider that rolling piece of crap!!!
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This is such a valuable take. Spend your cash on gas folks and get out there. Nobody wants to drop a bike that’s 15k or more. Seriously, spend your cash on the adventure and just get out there. I have been riding for years, many bikes, my gen 2 KLR is covered in scars and has 75k kms on it. Still starts and runs like the day I brought it home with basic maintenance. So many great stories and memories. Just get out there and ride folks. The upscale bikes can limit you, because it’s too much of an investment to damage. That is the one survival reaction that many riders can’t overcome. 😉
EXACTLY! Well said my man. I'm happy for the video just showing what's good and WHAT just WORKS. ^_^
Very well said!
Well stated insights and wisdom.
Well said. It's hard to sift through the millions of dollars spent marketing and what we think we need for epic adventures. This is a great example and just like you said, save initial high buy-in and use that for gas, upgrades, adventures and cross country trips. Life is short.
Yes sir!
My KLR provides access to every single trail that gets traveled by the top shelf offerings. No complaints!
Nothing but honesty, and sincerity. That is why I watch this channel. Thank you for all you do for The motorcycling community.
thank you
In a world where everyone focuses on whats new, remember the things that are already perfect.
This is exactly right.
This is the kind of video that will get new riders interested.
I just picked up my preowned 89’ TransAlp xl600v from a friend. I have been waiting six years for her to finally sell it to me. Not time to start slowly preparing for a Florida to Alaska round trip. 😊
Glad you're covering the KLR 650 again!!
Very interested!
I think the most important message here should be that you can do adv riding with much less budget.
I started on old transalp that was like 1400$ and was in almost perfect shape and was riding with cheap helmet, jeans and military boots. I regret nothing 😅
Like with all expensive hobbies, it can be done with almost any budget if you really want to enjoy it.
Same lol, I got a 1400€ 2005 650 Transalp
I'm 69 years old. I had been a touring bike rider my entire adult life. I bought a (new) klr 650 in 2009 for a ride to Prudoe Bay (from Seattle) thinking I'd sell it after that trip. But... I've kept that bike as my primary bike to this day because it is sooooo much fun.
I have a gen 3 KLR, I might sell it. Since I have another commuter bike, I don’t ride the KLR that much. Then again, the KLR didn’t cost that much relatively speaking, so it’s ok to keep it around since all motorcycles depreciate anyways. We all need more videos on affordable motorcycle riding. This is what we need.
KLRs hold their value well, at least if you buy secondhand. You can get a 22+ for $5k or maybe a bit more, and I assume they’ll have a price floor of $4k for probably the next decade
What i liked best is that even though you don't like the KLR, you proved that you CAN get into riding (bike, accessories, protective clothing) at a very reasonable cost. Luxury and "nice to have" items can come later!
This is why I got the KLR. Low price of just over 5k for a leftover 2023 S model. It can pretty much do everything without being too much of a commitment financially.
Great video Ian, really good to see how younger riders,riders on a budget, can get started without a huge outlay.
My personal opinion. If you have any bike in the garage, take it moto camping first. Especially if you live on the East side of the US where there is little to no public land you can off road on. Any bike can take you on an adventurer and there are lots of camp sites not far off pavement and many camp sites are paved too. Most bikes will make it down any dirt/gravel road graded for semi-trucks. Every type of bike has made it up the Dalton and Dempster highways. There is so much to see on roads in NA that you really shouldn't wait to tour them. Then if you find yourself wanting to go down more difficult trails then look at getting a ADV bike.
It’s great to see that you’re going back and keeping us updated on the KR 650s and also the average Joe what they can afford on gear. And it’s great that you can donate the gear to someone that really needs it. Continue making videos on the KR 650 also, maybe you could find one that’s fully equipped with custom features like my bike.😂
Well done. I think the ADV crowd needs a video like this every once in a while, myself included. I often find myself trying to justify a bike with a higher MSRP than my car, and riding gear that costs just as much as my entire wardrobe. I got into motorcycling to do cool stuff and go amazing places, not to look at a shiny bike that I can't afford to take on a trip farther away than the grocery store.
Despite you being honest and pointing out the KLRs many shortcomings, I feel like your series on this bike has convinced more people to get one than dissuaded.
Great vid. I bought myself brand new Benelli trk702x for less then 8000 euros. I take it to mountains(even though its heavy and I don't recommend it unless you can handle weight) long trips. Often riding to seaside, Croatia offer great roads with amazing sight. Bike came with topcase, crash bars, great pirelli scorpion tires, high windshield and its pretty comfortable for me, I can take around 200kms before I need pause. My wife loves it as well. I do lot of riding with friends and some of them do have Ducatis and bmws, and they say this bike is amazing value what I paid. Low cost maintenance too. Just another proof to confirm your video :)
It’s still a lot less expensive, than a second wife! 😎👍
This is the video people need to watch. Get out snd ride!
There's a famous 4wd track in Western Australia called the Holland Track (an old stock route inland), and recently, my brother's sister in law did that track with her husband and dad. They were both on dual sports, and she was on a gen 2 klr. For reference, she weighs around 55-60 kg, so that is a big bike for her. The track is a mix of gravel, mud, clay, huge ruts, and deep sand toward the end. She actually broke ger foot on the first day, and managed to ride that bike 600km with a broken foot with no problems.
The point I'm making with this anecdote is basically that you don't need to have the best, most expensive, lightest, whatever else-est bike in the world. If a 60kg chick with a broken foot can ride a klr through some pretty tricky terrain, most of us can manage it, no worries. That gave me a heck of a lot of respect for both her and the klr
Shine man. Bring your own spit. Like them slick and shiny. Good vid Ian. Topics covered a lot of issues beginning riders can experience. Get started where ever you can and just do it. Get out there and ride and enjoy life all you can. Go as far as you can afford while you are young and especially without a lot of responsibility. I'm glad I did. Try not to let life get in the way of living. Nicer more expensive stuff will come in time if you want it. Sooner or later you'll look back and say I liked it better when it was simple and more affordable. These are absolutely the best of times for motorcycling. So much great affordable gear available and the bikes in reality are incredible. Trying to do this 50 to 60 years back when I started was almost impossible. All good from east Kentucky USA Nomad Mountain Man Next time
Wow this is full coverage - ADV bike, accessories and gear
Some good points about rack vs soft i never noticed-
As well as pegs and everything else 😂.
Thx for the crash course-
The loaner is looking comfy.
Thanks Ian for that great video. It’s always good to take it back to the basics and see what you need to start off riding. And then as we get more experienced, we buy more gear. Thank you for taking it back to the basics. Looking forward to the next video. Thank you.
Good job. Great topic for the new to the hobby or if you have limited funds. You can still have a ton of fun at a low cost.
My friend and I are buying two this coming spring. we waited for the 25's to come out. both stock so, we can set them up the way we want them. with so many aftermarket parts, you can build a low priced, adventure bike, with endless options
Save a few bucks get a used one. Bullet proof bike
I call the OEM tires "Break in tires." I just run them until it's broken in and then slap some Tusk DSport tires on. I'm too cheap to toss brand new tires, even if they suck. Good review. It's a great all-around budget bike. The VW Beetle of motorcycles.
I buy budget bikes out of principle, not because I need to. I save the money for better fitting, higher quality gear and better food. I appreciate this video more than the GS budgetless videos and am excited about you potentially building up a budget project bike (plated XR400?)!
Well said!
Great review and product selection. I got rid of my KLR's last year. I traded one for a KLX 351 and sold the other to partially offset the purchase of my TransAlp. I do still miss the KLR however, I found it a great do everything bike and encouraged me to take my time and wander around more than I do with the TA.
How you liking your Trans-Alp?
I was laughing at the beginning when Ian's like "all those guys riding around with $30k setups" lol it's YOU! You are those guys IAN haha
I know, I'm lucky. But riding cheaper bikes is how I did it for many years.
@@BigRockMoto There is no luck or there would be no God. Jesus is waiting for you Ian. By the way, had the GS and it was just too heavy for jeep roads, rock gardens, and big $$ for maint. Actually the biggest problem was figuring how to make a 180 on a single lane dirt road when loaded. The KLR broke, but the DR650 looks better and lighter.
I just don't care about paying more for a bike when the payments are so low per month. I waited for 30 years to get another motorcycle and I was blessed to have the means to purchase it. Life is short and I am still paying it off, but I had cancer, survived and well... no guarantees.
What I don't like is people trashing a comment section HATING people and motorcycles because of cost.
I think that is especially true with BMW and KTM trash talk.
Just nothing but jealousy and hatred for people who can afford an expensive bike.
It is immature and pathetic that people live their lives with so much anger and use "socio-pathetic" media to spread their misery to others.
Good overview on a solid budget setup. This kind of bike and gear is what gets more people interested. The KLR may be old and basic but it can do a lot of things for not a lot of money.
This is great information. I did splurge for a better helmet. I bought a 23 leftover Triump Tiger GT Explorer 1200 for $16,999($24k list price) so with the savings, I went to Cycle gear on their clearance sales. I bought a Shoei RF1400 and my first Cardo and $1100 for a helmet is a lot ( which includes the Cardo), but after riding around, it is well worth it. Cycle gear fitted me for the helmet and also installed the Cardo for free. I am new to long distance riding. I've had Tusk luggage on my old Royal Enfield Himalayan and decided to buy Trekker panniers and 46 liter top box for long distance traveling. I understand they are supposed to be waterproof, but i will run waterproof inner liners. Great video. I've bought a lot of stuff through your links
Thanks!
KLRs are great! Not fast, but fun.
Can we take a moment and appreciate the tarnation kawasaki did with rear brake line?
I think they were like: lets see with how much we can get away and people will still defend/buy it 🤣
What next, fuel lines under skid plate or mounted to headers?
Yeah, it bothers me every time I see it
The brake line sums up the entire bike, it’s like they put no effort in.
Thanks for making this video Ian! You are making a great contribution to the sport and to support those who really want to do this but the cost holds them back. Getting out there with a friend on whatever bikes you have is the key! Only thing about boots is insuring that they have a stiff soleplate, standing up in soft sole boots is very uncomfortable!
Getting a sorted out second hand bike often makes so much sense. Some people put some serious love and money into their bikes, of which the buyer pays only a fraction, and the buyer and doesn’t have to go through the sorting out process. It’s essentially ’plug and play’ from the moment you take ownership. Thumpers like the DR, XR AND KLR 650s are solid units, older beemers if you want a big bike, any of the four stroke 250s, 400s, and some 450s are good options.
Nice take, keep it simple, it can all be done.
Thank you, have always enjoyed your videos. But this one was great in just get out and enjoy. Don’t have to spend all the money just to enjoy.
An idea for a future video - how to buy and setup an Android tablet similar to what @ItchyBoots uses for navigation as a lower cost alternative to a Garmin or similar
Yes I’m pretty good with bikes and bags/gear. Not so good with gps/smartphones
Oh yes. I waited for such a video
Bike and gear look good !!
Great setup 👍🏼👍🏼
Good video. The illusion of ADV marketing. Doesn’t fit the reality of ADV riding. Ride and wear what you can afford and enjoy the ride . Still rocking my Gen 1 klr . 😂😂
I agree, the key is to get out and ride!
@@BigRockMoto Been watching your videos forever. Always informative.
Hopefully a lot more riders can get into motorcycle riding after listening to this!
Go with what you can afford (even if it is a 50cc moped).
What I regret buying, is the cheapest gear. But - not until I had used it for a while I knew why, and what I wanted/needed, so there might be a learning curve that is good.
Buy the helmet that fits YOUR head - no matter the cost, just check that it is ECE approved. Dont go cheap and get a used helmet! If you cant afford a helmet - dont ride. I use HCJ helmet because if fits and I can afford it.
good advice
Good video with practical advice. Start cheap and figure out what you like.
Exactly, it's not about the gear, it's about the riding.
Great points. I'd suggest spending $ getting a comfortable hinged/lugged sole motocross boot you can walk in. I've ran Forma Predator boots riding my heavy vstrom in arizona simply for safety.
Great helpful video! I'm about to pull the trigger on getting an entry level bike to see if the fun's for me! Thanks!
I just did a half lap of Aus on my Himi. All I had was saddle bags and a 50 litre dry bag for my camping gear. No hassles at all.😂
Very impressive set of bike and gear for the price, and a great place for a lot of people to dip their toe into adventure riding. Its less than half the investment of other adventure bikes while providing some big range and wind protection (and weight) without being high powered or worrying about dropping a bike that is 2-3x as much.
Exactly, it's the perfect way to get started!
Love my KLR. Put 40k miles on it in 18 months 👌
Ye, thanks. Some useful info you've summarized here. 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Glad you enjoyed it
You really have helped me out making decisions on what I’m getting into…much appreciated!!!…your videos have “slowed down” my aneurysm from information overload….im 60, a retired Veteran who’s 6’ 260lbs….my concern is my weight + gear would make the small bike’s bottom out or have to work too hard. I come from a full dresser Harley world. Suggestions on bikes?
You may need upgrades springs no matter what bike you get. A KLR650 - standard height - is a good place to start for your size. A Tenere 700, Transalp 750 or V-Strom 800DE would be my top choices for your size and weight though.
@ greatly appreciated.
It’s not the arrow, it’s the Indian! 😎
My setup for riding is almost identical too what you have in this video bike clothes gps etc. Whats amazing I did it before I watched your video that very encourging too me!
Golly, I'd love to have those tusk bags. My old pannier bags have holes from buying used and using them everyday! Riding a 2017 dr650. Hit me up Ian.
I've owned Gen 2 and Gen 3. KLR is dead to me. There's so many better options for the money now 🏍️💨
Glad you went with all new for this. I've been trying to find a used KLR or XR650L or similar and the asking prices are close to current MSRP evint for 3-5 year old bikes. There really is no such thing as a cheap dual sport anymore!
Winter is a great time to buy a used bike and you might get one with most of the ADV gear you'll need. You'll have a few months to get it ready for adventures in the spring. If you only have $2000 to get started in ADV motorcycling, you can do it.
Absolutely! Used bikes are a great way to get started and winter is a great time to search.
@@BigRockMoto - Winter is a great time to watch BigRockMoto videos!
I'm still tooling around in my JDM Honda FTR 223 due to budgets, it still did a tour just fine on bad roads in Cambodia at moderate speed. All in with gear still wayyy below $3000.
Great video!
Define your adventure. Is it going out to trails on weekend in a BDM group? LA-to-Vegas with your wife? Or LA-to-Patagonia on a 6 months trip? How about daily commute plus occasional any of above? There are only a few bike that check them all - one of that is KLR.
In Australia, anyone starting on a motorcycle needs to go through almost 4 years of restricted motorcycles. As these restricted motorcycles are generally cheaper, this kind of $8000 setup is almost unavoidable. I am now in my last year of restrictions and I cannot agree more that a) you can do almost everything with a "cheap" setup, and b) you just have to go out and do as much riding as you can.
Do the boots Squeak? my tech 7s are brutally loud
these don't
Garmin Zumo XT2 seems a pretty solid worth it buy, I will add it to my shopping cart for sure, it is a bit expensive, although similar to modern cellphones nowadays.
I had the KLR for a few years. Fixed the doo-hickey, tried to fix the front brake, front brake line failed and it was gutless at higher RPMs. Should've started with the Yamaha T700. Or the DR 650.
I've had some pretty expensive bikes in my days. My last was a Suzuki 1050 V-Strom XT Adventure. Great bike with all accessories available.
Traded it for a '23 KLR Traveler.
I'm happier.
Wonder why. 🤔
Funny, I'm in the market for my first bike this spring and $8k is the budget I'd already set for everything. Definitely considering a KLR but I'm leaning more toward a lighter 300 dual sport. Sadly the Himalayan and Ibex aren't options since the nearest dealers are 3 hours away.
Consider your spread between highway and single track trails. If you are riding primarily highway and duL track/fir roads, stick with the larger displacement bikes like the KLR. If the majority of your riding will be on tighter single tracks and goat trails with just a small amount of public roads to link them, then the 300 class if bike is suitable. This is why the 450s are gaining traction; they are a little more of an acceptable compromise to bridge the two - but still less than ideal for either.
300 dual sport is a great choice!
Great video. I just wish I lived closer to the trails in SoCal. Doing 2 hrs of freeway riding on the KLR just sounds awful.
I would have done a Versys-x 300 or a KTM 390 ADV instead. A lot more fun and maneuverable. But I understand you had that KLR on-hand so it was an opportunity to use it.
When needed, are these bikes passenger friendly?
yes they are I have 1 and my wife did some 150 mile day rides with me .. I don't know about cross country....
Great proposition, is it better than an equally equipped Himalayan 450? Or does the mighty KLR still hold its ground?
What height is the KLR 650S designed for?
I’m always in the battle to upgrade or not to upgrade from my gen 2 klr
Are leaks doin this deal in UK too???
Thanks alot for the information.
Are you going to test the cf moto 450?
Yes, soon
@BigRockMoto looking forward for that 👌
I’d rather have that KLR than a GS monstrosity, any day…
KLR is just old and slow it's a good deal for a new bike but the engine is really a need of a upgrade !
Im in the market for rackless saddlebags and still cant decide what to go with. A budget friendly option ia hard to come by
Tusk, Viking, Rhinowalk
Scorpion at950-960 is modular and fits goggles
I am new to adventure riding. When my KLR is paid off in a couple years, I'll be getting an 800GS or something similar. I dont see the point of a 1,000 CC adventure bike.
So funny how you pronounce Michelin tires 😂
I stopped wearing black gear - major comfort difference in hot weather.
Impressive. I’m glad you did this.
Thanks! It took a lot of work to get it all together.
Wish we could get this bike and that gear for 8000 dollars here in the UK 😢
Buy a CF Moto, some cheap bags, mid range body protection, some good boots and you're sorted mate. The big price hike for us was Brexit. Tech 7 boots in EU, €275. UK £400. Same with everything. It's worth taking a trip to France or Germany and kitting up.
You don’t need a new bike to have many new adventures. One my bikes I own now for 20 years is xtz750. It will outlast me. I’ve owned over 40 bikes and this bike has a smoothest engine I’ve ever had and it goes anywhere and does everything I also have a 1200 super ten. Buying new bike and then selling it with less than a few thousand miles then buying another expensive bike is a total waste of money not to mention bad for the environment. It’s usually snobbery and nothing else besides the older bikes with little or no technology or electronics are generally more reliable for longer trips. I did buy a 790 adventure.R which was over 10 grand but luckily I sold it before the camshaft issue became apparent. You only have to spend two or three grand max to get a really good reliable. Iyou don’t have to buy big brands for jackets and clothing. bikes and cars depreciate faster than a falling brick. Buy a reliable older bike don’t spend more than a couple of grand and you’re in business. It’s all marketing which is all BS. Most bikes will do 100,000 miles with regular oil changes and some of them to 200,000 like my XT 1200 Z. Also all these extra technology gadgets reduce your skill as a rider, traction control and ABS et cetera. Which skill you can be safer without them and be a better rider.
Waiting for the Royal Enfield series and 450 Ibex. The KLR650 is just way too much of a pig.
I think the weight is close enough to just go for the best deal
I did Patagonia on that bike and hated it, to heavy, to big, carries it weight to much in the top, wanna go cheap, go dr 650, so much more manageable, just my opinion.
fair point
You can only travel on a 300kg BMW GS that costs €30.000.
I was waiting for bike review not you clothes lol
I will chime in and say the KLR is not timeless. So many superior bikes at close to the same price point these days. Most have more power, never mind the displacement, handle far better, and weigh less. Granted it’s a tractor that will get you there and back again - just slowly.
Klr 650 is not imported in Greece. Terrible corporate strategy.
Sorry I hate to call you out but all you “reviewers” do this shit and as a new moto rider it’s insulting and misleading.
Your sheet says the KLR650 can be purchased for 5k, but that’s not true, at least not a new one. But the biggest pile of bs is that even it the tag says 5k, the bike will always cost you somewhere between 1500-2k higher and sometimes more, that the tag says. You should be more forthcoming with that info, again it’s misleading to potential future consumers.
Aside from that, your reviews rock!! Do better and keep up the good work.
Bah, just stop getting sucked into the lies, I’ll keep riding my cb500x and loving it.
Royal enfield 450 himalayan is superior
This is so out of touch
Out of touch how? Many people have been looking for a video just like this. Perhaps you think $8000 is still way too high? For many it is not. To those who may be considering getting their first dual sport bike and gear this is useful info. Could you buy used cheaper. Some people are willing to pay more to get a new bike with warranty and the confidence that it is less likely to give them issues, particularly if they are not comfortable wrenching on their own bike.
This price obviously doesn't include the much needed klr650 suspension upgrades
Wish they sold KLR 650's new in Europe.............
Still pimping that piece of crap?? The KLR is a grocery getter. It is NOT a LONG term option. It is an antiquated turd and is over priced if it were free.... In this day, with the options that are out there there is NO reason to even consider that rolling piece of crap!!!
Wow..that's a lot of hate for 0930 in the morning...😬
@@AzPauly Ha, Well it took years of F#$%ing with my KLR to get there..