DOWNLOAD THIS GUIDE HERE (PDF): bit.ly/3Is9DnB 🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING THESE LINKS! ⚠Rocky Mountain Store: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚠Revzilla Store: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚠Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚠Amazon Store: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚠Merchandise : big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/ ⚠Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia
The fact that you take the time to put together hour plus videos, in a day where UA-cam is preferring shorter, makes it obvious that you're doing this for all the right reasons. Your efforts, insights, and opinions are highly appreciated by us riders. This takes significant effort to research and concatenate for this many bikes. Stay true to your mission. We will continue to consume and support any way we can!
I’ve finished my PhD this last June ‘22. I had time but a limited budget. I got a fully loaded (equipment) 2007 Suzuki V-Strom 650 with 78k miles. I’ve put 23k miles in three months touring the USA, off-road events and even took it to the track. I’m at 92k miles with it right now. I paid $2350 for it in Maryland. It had progressive rear shocks, front ricor emulator, for brace, sw motech guards, while luggage set, Corbin seat etc. a ton more stuff. This bike went to Black Bear Pass and went from ocean to ocean. It’s a beast. I went through two tire sets. Brake pad change once. Changed the chain once (my mistake from. It cleaning it well after the salt flats in Utah). Love the bike, will ride it as long as the engine holds up. No valve adjustments needed.
I've owned a few of the bikes on this list (Super Tenere; DL650; KLR650). Currently have the S10,, but I would definitely purchase another Vstrom if I were going smaller 👍. Loved that bike👍.
@@PaydayGabeBCNV There is no point in selling my bike at this point. Would get pennies on a dime with this high mileage but the bike is in perfect condition. I'll just add more to the stable. Looking at a ktm 890r, 1290r or gs1250 tbd
@@djolecar88 ,, I understand that point 💯. As you said,, Ride it till the engine craps out. But that could be a while. Reliable as an Anvil they are. 🍻 Cheers, G.
I've been laughed at, with my DL1000XAL8, on some of the places I've taken it. Cannot go as fast over technical terrain; don't have the ground clearance nor suspension travel to jump and land the crankcase on a rock, but I've kept up, made it through, and not dropped it (mud is my exception, and one hidden log), and have had to help others who broke their bike. I wish the new 1050 DE had 1-2" more ground clearance. The additional 4" of suspension travel and 21" front tire will be a godsend. Now I need to come up with the cash.
@@ne-adv To me lowering the seat and setting an higher suspension (back and front) might be more than enough to have a real enduro Strom, i'll always prefer the 650cc version but the new 1050DE is pretty nice (altho i would immediately have the tubeless kit in the front wheel lol)
Been riding over 55 years and bought many bikes but never seen dealer bs markups as bad as my last bike. A 2023 KLX 300 that listed at 6099.00 + dealer addons of 1350 + state tax ,reg etc pushed it to 7949.00 out the door. So buying private party can save you a lot.
Sadly buying used , you usually end up buying someone else’s problems. They are selling for a reason. If the seller won’t budge on the price, then you are probably getting a solid deal. If they are willing to negotiate down, then look out, JUNK alert.
I want to add a small “nice to know” detail about the Moto Guzzi V85TT (which I have, together with other Guzzis). Starting 2021 they updated the engine giving it much more torque and smoothness at low RPMs, it is so much better than the 2019-2020 engine. Also starting 2021 it comes standard with tubeless wheels and other small improvements. Make sure it has the latest engine map available (august 2022), authorized shops can update it.
Big Rock Moto is a milestone in modern moto journalism. That's why I'm a Patreon supporter and try to buy my motorcycle gear and supplies through Ian's links. We motorcyclists are fortunate to have such a resource as this. Thank you Ian.
You said a month full KK I couldn’t have said it better… I hunt down his videos hours on end and some I’ve seen countless times and when he bent his knee up Ouch brought back a bad memory of hyperextended of my own.
Finally a moto UA-camr has a video about used bikes. I’ve owned 21 motorcycle in my life but I haven’t bought a new one since 1987. It’s not that I don’t lust after new motorcycles, or am even offended by their MSRP. It’s that most dealers where I live don’t allow test rides, and I refuse to pay their endless fees and charges. Also, so many people change their minds about their new toy, there are always low mileage deals to be had from private sellers.
For whatever reason it's taken me a little bit to warm up to this chanel but I just wanna let you know you are doing a great job. This was a no fluff guide, well thought out and informative. I can see you've put a lot of work into this and it's appricated. It's nice to see an actual MOTORCYCLIST doing MC reviews on YT. Great job. I do wish you did more street bikes, I think your no nonsense approach is valuable in any part of the market.
Good luck finding a decent DRZ400S for $2500. I zipped to the 5K section expecting to see it there. Either way, it's the one to buy at anything up to $5-6K unless you want electrical nightmares with BMW models or maintenance on the KTM's. BTW anything with cast wheels shouldn't be on the list IMHO.
I picked up a used 2020 KLX 230 Duel Sport for $3500 that already had a bunch of mods. It's definitely a bike best kept under 65mph but it's more than enough to ride the back roads and most dirt trails. People buy these small Duel Sports as first bikes and then sell them with low mileage. At the very least you are buying what was already a cheap bike at a discount and minus the dealer fee's.
You create outstanding informative content. Iv'e recently watched a few of your videos and really appreciate your no hype no BS delivery. I will soon be returning to motorcycling after a way too long 15 year break. I have done quite a bit of research and I narowed it down to the Versysy 650, CB 500X KLR 650 and the V-Strom 650. I have decided on a V-Strom 650 2019 or later model. Really looking forward to getting back on two wheels again.
Great vid Ian as always. I really like the format of this episode. I’m old and pedantic and would like to mention one small thing many UA-camrs and journos get wrong. A supermoto is a motorcycle. A Supermotard is the rider/racer of a supermoto.
I bought a 2017 V-Strom XT (3. generation) in late 2021 for 6.500 € with losts of accessories! I really like the 3. gen most because it also looks way more modern and 800 GS/ Tiger-ish than the older models! Off-road capabilities ... well let's say they scale with it's rider. ;o) I've met some Ténéré 700 riders that'll do worst off-road than me on my V-Strom. That's why you excellently summarized it at 16:27. And since I bought it mainly for traveling, I am very happy with a more comfortable choice with which I go a bit slower on bad side roads and light off-road also because with luggage I am more in a holiday mood than in a racing scenario. The weight can be a problem, but it's better distributed than on the top heavy T7 i think! Also with the much bigger fuel tank it evens out when T7 riders bring extra fuel with them. It has been made obvious with the T7 World Raid Edition: with some bars and a bigger fuel tank it suddenly weighs even more than the V-Strom 650 XT from 2017. All in all a good summary! I would recommend to buy a V-Strom 650 XT anytime (especially 3. gen) and since I already have one my favorited used bikes are the 2017 Africa Twin and the 2015 Tiger 800 XC. From the newer bikes I would also consider the beautiful Guzzi V85 TT, which could be a really classical option to buy used and keep forever. Norden 901 and Transalp should also convert into solid used options when their price tag falls below 7 grands and someone also wants to travel with them.
A really good overview of the bike selection out there. SO many pros with most-hard to go wrong!! You did a great job as usual my friend. I bought my "14 vstrom 1000 adv new when they first came out and never looked back. Naturally its not for everyone but it is amazing. 50+ yrs of riding and this bike does it all around for me. Through the years I did suspension, exhaust, and gear changes to make it a better off road bike, It is easy to work, on and has a lot of aftermarket for economical off road upgrades. It had the super low torque but swapping the front gear to a 15T gave it SO much grunt in every gear. The suspension is adjustable- which you have to do for more off road. I do the BDRs and other off road areas year round. Off road you need to ride aggressively and what it does not go over it goes through!. You just need to trust it. It is only 40lbs heavier than the 650. more narrow and handles great standing. Naturally the reliability and the road touring is legendary. It is always going to star and run. The abs does not need to be turned off as it works very well on/off road. It is not for everyone but I will have this bike for many years. I am not as young as I was when racing/enduro/exploring north america but still get out there and have fun while seeing amazing places. Anyone can do it. Not a bike snob, never have been. Ride what ya got or can get and have fun. It is what they are for. Mine has never seen a Starbucks!! See yall out there!! Stay safe and well my friends!!
I bought a 2006 VStrom 650 a few years ago and love it. I just today cut some single track on my property for practicing. My biggest complaints are the lack of ground clearance, seat height (I'm tall) and lack of aftermarket parts (like foot shifter.) It's great on the road and fun on the dirt roads with great fuel mileage. It's up to 34,000 miles and still running great.
Thank you Ian! I've watched every video from you as I was trying to find the exact bike I needed. Listening to you break things down in your videos shifted my perspective to help me realize what I wanted and what I needed. After watching this video you opened my eyes to how affordable the Super Tenere was and after a little hunting I purchased a 2013 with only 2k miles on it with OEM luggage for 6800 dollars. My main priorities were passengers comfort, touring ability, and reliability. Honestly the ST doesn't feel heavy to me during street riding and I don't plan to do serious offroading so the 17/19 wheel combo and good suspension travel is enough to keep me comfortable on some dirt roads in the mountains yet good enough to have some fun on the twisty roads all while being comfortable. The best thing is I had my heart set on buying a NEW bike but I was able to get the ST without a loan so I can spend more money on upgrades and trips. 👍 keep at it, I wish you could review the long in the tooth ST for us because I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Wow Ian! Another amazing job that only you can pull off like that. Got a couple CRF dual sports and getting first ADV bike next month in the Norden 901 Expedition and I’ve learned so much from you. Really appreciate you and try to support you however I can. Keep up the outstanding work and ride safe! 🙏🏽 🏍💨
Thanks! I was ready to buy a GS 1200 for my first Adventure bike. After watching your video and end comments. I'm thinking more of a f650gs or 850gsa. What do you suggest as my starter adventure bike. I've been on a Gold Wing for many years but I'm ready to experience the back country nothing crazy, service roads, etc... Keep doing what you're doing it definitely helps people like me to make a more financially sound expense.
Yamaha XT225/250, definitely. Great for shorter riders, or riders who just want a lower seat height, it's under 32 inches. Less than an inch taller than the TW200. Also the KLX250S and Honda CRF250L.
This list is a treasure. I am actually considering buying an old and inexpansive off-road capable ADV. I have had my eyes set on a F650GS Dakar, but have been fearing that I have missed some good options on the market. After watching this, I am certain it's the bike I want.
The TW 200, all DRs, and the Honda XLs are expensive, 3k to 5k, in SW Wisconsin. I have only seen a couple CB500s out here and they usually are sold above 6k. There is also the versys 300x and bmw 310 gs around the 5k range.
One thing to note with the XR650L, it is also easily lowered with a lowering link just like the DR650SE. One con is the countershaft spline wear due to no cush drive.
Thank you for putting this together!! My take from this is the idea that for apx $15000 you get a Honda AT/ Suzuki V-strom AND a light wheight dual sport. Instead of trying to find the unicorn bike that magically makes everything well (on and off road) that would cost $20000. Just to accept that different bikes are built for different ways to drive - and with some simple smartness - get them both.
Hey Ian, awesome channel. I just bought an '08 KLR 650 with only 17K km's on it....after a LONG hiatus from motorcycling. I'd just moved to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, and the legendary Cabot Trail is literally in my backyard, and I wanted a reliable, but inexpensive ADV bike to explore the area, and beyond. Your insights made it easier to really nail down what it was I wanted, on the budget I had. Thanks VERY much!
My go to bike reviewer. Has the ability to transport me onto the bike through his comparisons and comments and important info we riders are looking for. I would buy a bike based only on what he says. It's like a test ride channel.
I'm pretty surprised there was only a brief mention of the CRF250l/CRF300l (regular or rally). Both of which are good bikes, especially for beginners. I'm biased as I own one but they can definitely be found in the $5k range. This is a great resource you've put out, will definitely send to friends who are searching for a bike. Thanks Ian.
A lot can be said about the Honda to start with addressing the washed out suspension if ur over 110lbs and like air and run WFO. A blast of $1,500 to possibly 3k and you’re fit for the best little endurance bike ever but not for the freeway. Mite as well put the DR650 New in that spot. Just my opinion…rob442
Thanks for taking the time for this extensive discussion. Your advice at the end is spot-on. I went from an NC 750 to an Africa Twin because I wanted more off road ability. While I love the Africa Twin, and I've put almost 40,000 miles on it over 3 years, I'm now looking at a second smaller bike to really learn off-road skills, as well as taking a course. The AT is just too heavy to take a chance on, especially because the off-road options are limited where I live.
Anyone with 40,k under their seat is like a superhero and you’ll never retire I can see you at family gatherings on a little Honda 50 running to the lunchroom 😂
Ian, you have created one of my favorite UA-cam channels. Easily my favorite motorcycle channel. Thank you so much for all the time you put into all of your reviews and this video in particular. Have a great day, and keep up the amazing work.
Re DL1000, my wife and I ADV'd this bike all over AZ camping, we didn't know any better and it worked great. Sold my red 1st gen for an ST1300 which I hated and sold 8 months later to buy another DL1K same color 🙃. My 2009 GS1200 was a great motorcycle. Early KTM's be careful, coolant tends to make its way into the oil on come LC motors. Of all the bike listed, the GS's are the way to go. Under 10k get the 09-12 GS1200 at 10k or slightly over get the next gen GS1200. First year water cooled GS's have peaky engines and some throttle snatch. Agree 100% on rider training with ADV riding!! This cannot be stressed enough. Riding on dirt is an entirely different skill set on two wheels than street.
Ian, THANK YOU! There needs to be a special place in heaven for long-form UA-cam creators. Your work is additive to society, unlike much that is on the platform.
You produced a top notch educational video here. I think your suggestions are right on the mark. One concern I have is oem parts availability for the much older bikes and the degradation of things like rubber hoses, brake lines, etc. Still, with the rather substantial amount of money saved on a solid older bike should more than make up the difference. Again, great work!
You bring a solid note to the table. Being a mechanic myself we have a huge outlet of available parts worldwide and we learn how to modify repair and get the ride back on the road and not face that same problem for 10 more years down the road…rob442
Thanks Ian, Another excellent review. I'm so appreciative of your knowledge, frankness and honesty, it continues to be a pleasure to follow your channel. Well done!!
I think a big point to mention on the Africa twin models are which ones have tubes tires and which ones are tubeless. Being able to patch hole without removing the tire is a nice feature to consider.
This is true but when running radial tires if you don’t plug correctly you run a vary high risk of tire separation as heat buildup along with radial distortion at high speeds causing tire fatigue and air pressure finding the slightest flaw to cause tire failure. …rob442
Another amazing video, able to get to the basic nature of each model very quickly and efficiently. Personally I am fortunate enough to be able to own two bikes, a ist gen 650 v strom with revalved and appropriately spung forks and a fully adjustable wilburs shock. As you know it is an amazing tourer and easy dirt road bike. I also own a 2014 dr 650 with full engine protection and respung and valved forks and standard shock. I am a primarily road rider trying to get into offroad adventure style riding, my main problem is not enough time to ride. I would like to say however with regards to the DR that it is extremely easy to work on, for example major services checking and resetting valve clearances are extremely simple whereas I baulk at doing the same for my strom.
Dr. 650 yes sir yes sir my choice bike desert racing. Only problem I ever had to date was the smog regulate fuel valve feed to carb. Fixed on spot and ran it to the end of week to replace it with a new one. And springing the front end is a must at 80mph running over desert shrubs like a Cadilac!! Almost as good as my old WR 390 husky CR Now that was a bike bike No street war machine
Great presentation Ian - thank you for finally mentioning the - frequently forgotten- Honda nc700x! With just a couple of obvious Mods, it certainly has a place in the adventure world.
i just bought a XR650L. Everyone i came across thought they had a gold bar under the seat. way over priced. anything in my area under $5k was a piece of crap or over 20 years old with a ton of miles. Friend of mine. Has a good friend who use to own a honda shop and had a very good used one he wanted to sell my friend said the guy went through everything and if it needed fixing or replacement he did it. I think i got a fair price with a lot of extras so i bought it. going to set it up for off road adventure riding. I now have a smaller off road bike to go with my KTM 1290. If i get real good at off roading i might sell the 1290 for a KTM 890 Thanks. Always good information on your channel
I actually find that reaching for the front brake makes me automatically roll off the throttle, even if I started off in the “wrong” position. Also, another throttle tip might be to stop the blip. In other words, keep a steady throttle in most situations. IMO. Enjoyed you tops.
I have owned both a TW200 and DR 200. They are both very low and light which are great attributes for newer and older riders. Unfortunately the TW 200 tires are NOT good in mud, the center band of lugs is too close together and fills with mud instantly. I had one for 2 years and it wouldn't climb any kind of uphill in mud. The DR200 has 21/18 wheels so it can wear much more aggressive rubber. The DR 200 has slightly bigger rear drum than the TW so it stops better, and has a much bigger gas tank, I believe 3.3 gal vs 1.7 on the tdub. The TW however has a much better aftermarket except motorcycle tires. Some owners will put ATV tires on Tdubs for some really great mud handling. TW's are cooler but ultimately I sold mine. Other bikes may come and go in my garage but the DR 200 will always be there until I just can't ride at all.
Thank you for all the time and hard work you put into this video, Ian. You truly have a passion for motorcycles, your channel, and your viewers. I absolutely love your channel! Keep up the awesome content!
I'd like to say something about the Versys. The first and second generation - 2007 to 2009 and 2010 to 2014 - are a LOT lighter than the third and fourth generation bikes. My 2009 model weighs 186 kgs dry, but the latest one is almost 15 kgs heavier. And it shows. The Versys is an extremely top-heavy bike. Add weight to that and it only gets worse. The vibrations on the first generation are so bad that for old buggers like me, they're only rideable with neoprene grips. The best ones are the second generation, where they fitted some rubber mounts to the engine.
IMHO you are the best moto reviewer on youtube and i love your in depth and highly informative videos. Just wish i lived in the US and could experience some of the awesome off-roads you have around you. Keep up the great work!
Excellent video Ian! As you suggested commenting on other bikes, I'd like to mention Kawasaki's Super Sherpa, a great first dual-sport bike. While only a 250, it's under 300 lbs, has a 6-speed transmission, dual disc brakes, and a very comfortable (wide) seat. Yes, air-cooled and carbureted. Taking one on a guided demanding off-road adventure, it exceeded my expectations and did very well on secondary roads over 60MPH. Keep up the great work!
I know i'm a little bit late but i wanted to point out another "nice to know" fact about the F800 gs. You can find used F800 gs Adventure which featured longer travel suspensions, a different design to have more confort while touring, a bigger tank (450km-280 miles without stopping for gas) for about the same price, it's like a cheap R1200 gs adventure with a lot more off road capacity and less HP, i own one since 2020 and i'm deeply in love with it!
Amazing job! You deserve the good & professional reputation you have. Thank you so much for your hard work and original ways to add value to our community.
Great media product so very true there is so much great product out there some barely used and great fun. How to tighten a chain, change the oil and install new spark plugs ... maybe a new fuel filter, a suspension adjustment etc and that will get everyone out on the road loving this lifestyle too.
Hello Ian, Thankyou so much fort this vid. I just sold my Goldwing and am going to Adventure models. Really informative and learned a lot. Thinking of the KLR650. Then a 2024 used Africa Twin ES DCT adventure sports in the future. Great channel.
As much as I loved my 1190, avoid them imo. Fuel gauge, Fuel Pump, Ignition failures. But the biggest problem imo, is the placement of the air filter. The stock air filter was not sealed well and required an after market upgrade, not a huge deal as other bikes have the same issue. The air filter....one of the most important maintenance items if you are out in the dust and dirt....is under the tank. You have to remove the entire tank. Dealing with it out in the field, if you want to replace a prefilter for example, is just super annoying. Also top heavy and you sit in the bike vs. on top. But... It is crazy fast and super fun to ride...it is a KTM after all. But my 17 701e is way, way more fun. A little sketchy on the highway at high speeds, but so much better off road and no issues after ~10k miles. Looking to get a mid class adv (890 vs 901 vs T700) for 2 up so this info has definitely saved me time. If the 701e is a little too much, the 500/501's and 350/FEs are great bikes, but the maintenance intervals are low (~433 miles) for something like a BDR depending on logistics.
I think I've seen this video at least 10 times by now. I would like to have a updated view from you now, new bikes and two years later. Maybe one for every price bracket. Thanks!
Bought my 2012 DL1000 V-Strom brand new and just traded it in last year with 135K miles on it for my Tiger 900. Part of me wishes I would have went with a Strom again but that Triumph is brilliant
Great video! Thanks Ian for the work and passion that you put in to this videos👍 One advantage of the pre 2013 f800gs is that weights only 454lbs also the simplicity of the bike works towards it's advantage as it gets older
Awesome video. I learned a lot from it. Thank you and yes, I’d like to see some similar videos, although I do like your road test videos. I’m an old enduro rider looking into riding again at 70 years old. No more racing but riding for the love of riding! Ride on my brothers!
For Europeans, as a proud owner of Honda Transalp 600 or 650, I need to mention this model. It has better offroad manners than traditional rival V-strom 650 thanks to higher ground clearence and 21 inch front wheel, also 28° steering angle. Although, it is on the heavier side and power does not compete with modern midsize ADVs. But it is pretty good on highway or longer distances thanks to V-twin engine, great stock sound as well. The prices on the second hand market are really affordable, around 3000 USD, plus you get the Honda bulletproof reliability.
Excellent presentation Ian. One bike you left off the list is Kawasaki KLR's little brother, the KLE 250 Sherpa. It is a 4 valve single 6 speed air cooled gem that is low enough for my 32 inch inseam. I had a used 2007 for 6 years and sold it for the same amount that I bought it for. Your sage advice about buying a small used one is right on target. I now have a Kawasaki Versys x 300 and love it. Dave from Nova Scotia, Canada
Hey Ian , Great very informative and pratical info , The Husky TE 630 , good power, good adjustable suspension , light - 150 kg , 6 speed and not tall - the predecesor to the KTM 690 .
This was the best used motorcycle guide I have ever seen. Yah you missed CRF L, but you did such a good job that I think we can let that slide. Heck, you can't find a used one anyway... same with the KLX 300...
Lots of good info there. Saw a dealer 2022 KLR with 28 miles on it the other day selling for $5,800. Then I was at a store and I saw a guy ON the bike and I asked him if it was from that dealer and he said "yeah!" and he'd gotten it for $5,200 plus they threw in a USB port install. OTOH, people in my neck of the woods are getting more than $6k for used KTM 390 adventures with a few thousand miles on them. Very little used inventory of any kind where I live.
Awesome content, as always. Must have take a ton of time, but it shows. Great work! This is nit really on topic, but I wish BMW would re-make a smaller displacement boxer engine again, much like the original R80GS. I love my 2014 R1200GS, but I can see the utility of a lighter (much lighter) smaller boxer motorcycle. I love the torque of the Boxer design and the ease of maintenance!!!
There are 0, ZERO (new) teneres in the PNW US, then I see these Aussie reviews walking around a garage with a dozen or so fully decked out, and I can't help but think, please save some Teneres for the rest of us!!
I have two adventure bikes: Honda NX4 Falcon 400 and a Honda GL1200. The falcon is better for crappy roads and the Wing is better for long distance cruzing. Used to ride dirt but not so much any more. Talking price my Wing cost $1500 the Falcon was over double that.
Ian, this video is so good I’ve watched it twice. You are my go to divisor getting ready to purchase having at Harleys up at this point ready to move on probably one of your recommendations.
Very easy to dent the rims of the 3 spoke wheels on the old Vstroms. Re the F800GS, the upper shock bolt would bend quite easily due to a terrible design. The pre 2014 690 would break valve rockers and probably caused the poor reliability record of KTM.
![R1200GS / R1250GS | Complete Buyer's Guide [2005-2020]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9arUyUFD5wk/mqdefault.jpg)
DOWNLOAD THIS GUIDE HERE (PDF):
bit.ly/3Is9DnB
🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING THESE LINKS!
⚠Rocky Mountain Store: bit.ly/33kgRIz
⚠Revzilla Store: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN
⚠Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto
⚠Amazon Store: amzn.to/3viGZ0A
⚠Merchandise : big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/
⚠Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia
Can you please obtain a 2020-23.
Honda CRF 450 RL and conduct your in depth, extensive review. Many need to know
You are one of the nicest and more inclusive people. No discrimination, no new motorcycle bias just love for all motorcycles. Wish you the best!
I appreciate that!
Also, one of the few North America-based reviewers aware of other markets.
Well said 👍
Exactly, this guy is great!
Very nice
The fact that you take the time to put together hour plus videos, in a day where UA-cam is preferring shorter, makes it obvious that you're doing this for all the right reasons. Your efforts, insights, and opinions are highly appreciated by us riders. This takes significant effort to research and concatenate for this many bikes.
Stay true to your mission. We will continue to consume and support any way we can!
thank you. it means a lot.
In 2018 I rode my V Strom 2nd Gen around the world, two up. 43,000 miles and no reliability issues. Tank range of 260 miles and really comfortable.
That's awesome! 650?
Yes, I have a 2013 650 V strom. I have owned it since it was 9 months old.
I’ve finished my PhD this last June ‘22. I had time but a limited budget. I got a fully loaded (equipment) 2007 Suzuki V-Strom 650 with 78k miles. I’ve put 23k miles in three months touring the USA, off-road events and even took it to the track. I’m at 92k miles with it right now.
I paid $2350 for it in Maryland.
It had progressive rear shocks, front ricor emulator, for brace, sw motech guards, while luggage set, Corbin seat etc. a ton more stuff.
This bike went to Black Bear Pass and went from ocean to ocean. It’s a beast. I went through two tire sets. Brake pad change once. Changed the chain once (my mistake from. It cleaning it well after the salt flats in Utah).
Love the bike, will ride it as long as the engine holds up. No valve adjustments needed.
I've owned a few of the bikes on this list (Super Tenere; DL650; KLR650).
Currently have the S10,, but I would definitely purchase another Vstrom if I were going smaller 👍.
Loved that bike👍.
@@PaydayGabeBCNV There is no point in selling my bike at this point. Would get pennies on a dime with this high mileage but the bike is in perfect condition. I'll just add more to the stable. Looking at a ktm 890r, 1290r or gs1250 tbd
@@djolecar88 ,, I understand that point 💯.
As you said,, Ride it till the engine craps out.
But that could be a while. Reliable as an Anvil they are.
🍻 Cheers, G.
Seeing the V-Strom covered so many times gives you a prospective on how good that bike really is.
I've been laughed at, with my DL1000XAL8, on some of the places I've taken it. Cannot go as fast over technical terrain; don't have the ground clearance nor suspension travel to jump and land the crankcase on a rock, but I've kept up, made it through, and not dropped it (mud is my exception, and one hidden log), and have had to help others who broke their bike.
I wish the new 1050 DE had 1-2" more ground clearance. The additional 4" of suspension travel and 21" front tire will be a godsend. Now I need to come up with the cash.
@@ne-adv To me lowering the seat and setting an higher suspension (back and front) might be more than enough to have a real enduro Strom, i'll always prefer the 650cc version but the new 1050DE is pretty nice (altho i would immediately have the tubeless kit in the front wheel lol)
Been riding over 55 years and bought many bikes but never seen dealer bs markups as bad as my last bike. A 2023 KLX 300 that listed at 6099.00 + dealer addons of 1350 + state tax ,reg etc pushed it to 7949.00 out the door. So buying private party can save you a lot.
Don't forget the $1k for shipping.
Ya....but dealers buy the bikes sold privately....
Sadly buying used , you usually end up buying someone else’s problems. They are selling for a reason. If the seller won’t budge on the price, then you are probably getting a solid deal. If they are willing to negotiate down, then look out, JUNK alert.
@@bobbyrobbins9816pl Change bikes. Check the oil. Pm can't ride a bike 100k miles
😂
I want to add a small “nice to know” detail about the Moto Guzzi V85TT (which I have, together with other Guzzis). Starting 2021 they updated the engine giving it much more torque and smoothness at low RPMs, it is so much better than the 2019-2020 engine. Also starting 2021 it comes standard with tubeless wheels and other small improvements. Make sure it has the latest engine map available (august 2022), authorized shops can update it.
great info
Fantastic!
Ian has the best most knowledgable audience 🍻🍻
Big Rock Moto is a milestone in modern moto journalism. That's why I'm a Patreon supporter and try to buy my motorcycle gear and supplies through Ian's links. We motorcyclists are fortunate to have such a resource as this. Thank you Ian.
You said a month full KK I couldn’t have said it better… I hunt down his videos hours on end and some I’ve seen countless times and when he bent his knee up Ouch brought back a bad memory of hyperextended of my own.
Finally a moto UA-camr has a video about used bikes. I’ve owned 21 motorcycle in my life but I haven’t bought a new one since 1987. It’s not that I don’t lust after new motorcycles, or am even offended by their MSRP. It’s that most dealers where I live don’t allow test rides, and I refuse to pay their endless fees and charges. Also, so many people change their minds about their new toy, there are always low mileage deals to be had from private sellers.
For whatever reason it's taken me a little bit to warm up to this chanel but I just wanna let you know you are doing a great job. This was a no fluff guide, well thought out and informative. I can see you've put a lot of work into this and it's appricated. It's nice to see an actual MOTORCYCLIST doing MC reviews on YT. Great job. I do wish you did more street bikes, I think your no nonsense approach is valuable in any part of the market.
I appreciate that!
Good luck finding a decent DRZ400S for $2500. I zipped to the 5K section expecting to see it there. Either way, it's the one to buy at anything up to $5-6K unless you want electrical nightmares with BMW models or maintenance on the KTM's. BTW anything with cast wheels shouldn't be on the list IMHO.
100%, no way in this market, any DRZ that is not old enough to buy beer goes for 4-6K where I am.
I picked up a used 2020 KLX 230 Duel Sport for $3500 that already had a bunch of mods. It's definitely a bike best kept under 65mph but it's more than enough to ride the back roads and most dirt trails. People buy these small Duel Sports as first bikes and then sell them with low mileage. At the very least you are buying what was already a cheap bike at a discount and minus the dealer fee's.
How does this only have 25k views?!? Ian you are a national treasure of the Moto community
You create outstanding informative content. Iv'e recently watched a few of your videos and really appreciate your no hype no BS delivery. I will soon be returning to motorcycling after a way too long 15 year break. I have done quite a bit of research and I narowed it down to the Versysy 650, CB 500X KLR 650 and the V-Strom 650. I have decided on a V-Strom 650 2019 or later model. Really looking forward to getting back on two wheels again.
100% on the WRR.Never getting rid of my 2020.Great job sir.
Its funny how the DR650 is still a better Adv bike than nearly anything from 2500 up to 7500
Well done, Ian. Thank you so much for the work you put in on this one! It is so well done!
My pleasure!
Great vid Ian as always. I really like the format of this episode. I’m old and pedantic and would like to mention one small thing many UA-camrs and journos get wrong. A supermoto is a motorcycle. A Supermotard is the rider/racer of a supermoto.
One of the most honest channels for bike reviews.
I would put the Himalayan on the list in the 5k range its really good for what it is.
I bought a 2017 V-Strom XT (3. generation) in late 2021 for 6.500 € with losts of accessories!
I really like the 3. gen most because it also looks way more modern and 800 GS/ Tiger-ish than the older models! Off-road capabilities ... well let's say they scale with it's rider. ;o) I've met some Ténéré 700 riders that'll do worst off-road than me on my V-Strom. That's why you excellently summarized it at 16:27. And since I bought it mainly for traveling, I am very happy with a more comfortable choice with which I go a bit slower on bad side roads and light off-road also because with luggage I am more in a holiday mood than in a racing scenario.
The weight can be a problem, but it's better distributed than on the top heavy T7 i think! Also with the much bigger fuel tank it evens out when T7 riders bring extra fuel with them. It has been made obvious with the T7 World Raid Edition: with some bars and a bigger fuel tank it suddenly weighs even more than the V-Strom 650 XT from 2017.
All in all a good summary!
I would recommend to buy a V-Strom 650 XT anytime (especially 3. gen) and since I already have one my favorited used bikes are the 2017 Africa Twin and the 2015 Tiger 800 XC. From the newer bikes I would also consider the beautiful Guzzi V85 TT, which could be a really classical option to buy used and keep forever.
Norden 901 and Transalp should also convert into solid used options when their price tag falls below 7 grands and someone also wants to travel with them.
Can you do a sport-touring version?
A really good overview of the bike selection out there. SO many pros with most-hard to go wrong!!
You did a great job as usual my friend.
I bought my "14 vstrom 1000 adv new when they first came out and never looked back. Naturally its not for everyone but it is amazing. 50+ yrs of riding and this bike does it all around for me. Through the years I did suspension, exhaust, and gear changes to make it a better off road bike, It is easy to work, on and has a lot of aftermarket for economical off road upgrades. It had the super low torque but swapping the front gear to a 15T gave it SO much grunt in every gear. The suspension is adjustable- which you have to do for more off road. I do the BDRs and other off road areas year round. Off road you need to ride aggressively and what it does not go over it goes through!. You just need to trust it. It is only 40lbs heavier than the 650. more narrow and handles great standing. Naturally the reliability and the road touring is legendary. It is always going to star and run. The abs does not need to be turned off as it works very well on/off road. It is not for everyone but I will have this bike for many years. I am not as young as I was when racing/enduro/exploring north america but still get out there and have fun while seeing amazing places. Anyone can do it. Not a bike snob, never have been. Ride what ya got or can get and have fun. It is what they are for. Mine has never seen a Starbucks!! See yall out there!!
Stay safe and well my friends!!
I like everything about ur post even about that coffee house I’m not giving them any credit 😝 I prefer stake with my coffee. Take care Traveler…rob442
I bought a 2006 VStrom 650 a few years ago and love it. I just today cut some single track on my property for practicing. My biggest complaints are the lack of ground clearance, seat height (I'm tall) and lack of aftermarket parts (like foot shifter.) It's great on the road and fun on the dirt roads with great fuel mileage. It's up to 34,000 miles and still running great.
The amount of info in this video is impressive and timely for me. I'll have to watch again and save a link to it. Great effort and result! Thanks.
I love the VTwin engine of Suzuki. ❤
Got the SV650 and VStrom 650 XT
Thank you Ian! I've watched every video from you as I was trying to find the exact bike I needed. Listening to you break things down in your videos shifted my perspective to help me realize what I wanted and what I needed. After watching this video you opened my eyes to how affordable the Super Tenere was and after a little hunting I purchased a 2013 with only 2k miles on it with OEM luggage for 6800 dollars. My main priorities were passengers comfort, touring ability, and reliability. Honestly the ST doesn't feel heavy to me during street riding and I don't plan to do serious offroading so the 17/19 wheel combo and good suspension travel is enough to keep me comfortable on some dirt roads in the mountains yet good enough to have some fun on the twisty roads all while being comfortable.
The best thing is I had my heart set on buying a NEW bike but I was able to get the ST without a loan so I can spend more money on upgrades and trips. 👍 keep at it, I wish you could review the long in the tooth ST for us because I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Wow Ian! Another amazing job that only you can pull off like that.
Got a couple CRF dual sports and getting first ADV bike next month in the Norden 901 Expedition and I’ve learned so much from you.
Really appreciate you and try to support you however I can.
Keep up the outstanding work and ride safe! 🙏🏽
🏍💨
Thanks!
Thanks! I was ready to buy a GS 1200 for my first Adventure bike. After watching your video and end comments. I'm thinking more of a f650gs or 850gsa. What do you suggest as my starter adventure bike. I've been on a Gold Wing for many years but I'm ready to experience the back country nothing crazy, service roads, etc... Keep doing what you're doing it definitely helps people like me to make a more financially sound expense.
Ian!! You are my first choice when looking for a review!! Thank you so much for your work!! Amazing!!
Yamaha XT225/250, definitely. Great for shorter riders, or riders who just want a lower seat height, it's under 32 inches. Less than an inch taller than the TW200. Also the KLX250S and Honda CRF250L.
This list is a treasure. I am actually considering buying an old and inexpansive off-road capable ADV. I have had my eyes set on a F650GS Dakar, but have been fearing that I have missed some good options on the market. After watching this, I am certain it's the bike I want.
The TW 200, all DRs, and the Honda XLs are expensive, 3k to 5k, in SW Wisconsin. I have only seen a couple CB500s out here and they usually are sold above 6k. There is also the versys 300x and bmw 310 gs around the 5k range.
One thing to note with the XR650L, it is also easily lowered with a lowering link just like the DR650SE. One con is the countershaft spline wear due to no cush drive.
Thank you for putting this together!!
My take from this is the idea that for apx $15000 you get a Honda AT/ Suzuki V-strom AND a light wheight dual sport. Instead of trying to find the unicorn bike that magically makes everything well (on and off road) that would cost $20000.
Just to accept that different bikes are built for different ways to drive - and with some simple smartness - get them both.
makes sense!
Hey Ian, awesome channel. I just bought an '08 KLR 650 with only 17K km's on it....after a LONG hiatus from motorcycling. I'd just moved to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, and the legendary Cabot Trail is literally in my backyard, and I wanted a reliable, but inexpensive ADV bike to explore the area, and beyond. Your insights made it easier to really nail down what it was I wanted, on the budget I had. Thanks VERY much!
My go to bike reviewer. Has the ability to transport me onto the bike through his comparisons and comments and important info we riders are looking for.
I would buy a bike based only on what he says. It's like a test ride channel.
I'm pretty surprised there was only a brief mention of the CRF250l/CRF300l (regular or rally). Both of which are good bikes, especially for beginners. I'm biased as I own one but they can definitely be found in the $5k range.
This is a great resource you've put out, will definitely send to friends who are searching for a bike. Thanks Ian.
A lot can be said about the Honda to start with addressing the washed out suspension if ur over 110lbs and like air and run WFO. A blast of $1,500 to possibly 3k and you’re fit for the best little endurance bike ever but not for the freeway. Mite as well put the DR650 New in that spot. Just my opinion…rob442
Thanks for taking the time for this extensive discussion. Your advice at the end is spot-on. I went from an NC 750 to an Africa Twin because I wanted more off road ability. While I love the Africa Twin, and I've put almost 40,000 miles on it over 3 years, I'm now looking at a second smaller bike to really learn off-road skills, as well as taking a course. The AT is just too heavy to take a chance on, especially because the off-road options are limited where I live.
I have owned my AT for three years and picked up a DR650 last summer and now the AT mostly sits lol.
@@fuscavw1 Looking at maybe getting a DR650 myself.
Anyone with 40,k under their seat is like a superhero and you’ll never retire I can see you at family gatherings on a little Honda 50 running to the lunchroom 😂
I have the Suzuki 650 V-Strom and love it. As none of the new bikes coming soon has cruice control i don´t see myself buying a new bike anytime soon
Easily one of the best advice videos I’ve ever watched. Thank you!
14:55
Everyone always forgets about the XT225-250 for those segments. 😁
I got the go to all around Ford Taurus bike....the Suzuki C50...mint condition $4,000...6,000 miles...it's a very comfortable bike...
Ian, you have created one of my favorite UA-cam channels. Easily my favorite motorcycle channel. Thank you so much for all the time you put into all of your reviews and this video in particular. Have a great day, and keep up the amazing work.
Wow, thanks!
Re DL1000, my wife and I ADV'd this bike all over AZ camping, we didn't know any better and it worked great. Sold my red 1st gen for an ST1300 which I hated and sold 8 months later to buy another DL1K same color 🙃. My 2009 GS1200 was a great motorcycle. Early KTM's be careful, coolant tends to make its way into the oil on come LC motors. Of all the bike listed, the GS's are the way to go. Under 10k get the 09-12 GS1200 at 10k or slightly over get the next gen GS1200. First year water cooled GS's have peaky engines and some throttle snatch. Agree 100% on rider training with ADV riding!! This cannot be stressed enough. Riding on dirt is an entirely different skill set on two wheels than street.
Ian, THANK YOU! There needs to be a special place in heaven for long-form UA-cam creators. Your work is additive to society, unlike much that is on the platform.
thank you, it means a lot!
Appreciate how much work this must’ve take .. well done .. keep the good content coming.. as usual
Thanks, will do!
You produced a top notch educational video here. I think your suggestions are right on the mark. One concern I have is oem parts availability for the much older bikes and the degradation of things like rubber hoses, brake lines, etc. Still, with the rather substantial amount of money saved on a solid older bike should more than make up the difference.
Again, great work!
You bring a solid note to the table. Being a mechanic myself we have a huge outlet of available parts worldwide and we learn how to modify repair and get the ride back on the road and not face that same problem for 10 more years down the road…rob442
Thanks Ian,
Another excellent review. I'm so appreciative of your knowledge, frankness and honesty, it continues to be a pleasure to follow your channel. Well done!!
I think a big point to mention on the Africa twin models are which ones have tubes tires and which ones are tubeless. Being able to patch hole without
removing the tire is a nice feature to consider.
This is true but when running radial tires if you don’t plug correctly you run a vary high risk of tire separation as heat buildup along with radial distortion at high speeds causing tire fatigue and air pressure finding the slightest flaw to cause tire failure. …rob442
Another amazing video, able to get to the basic nature of each model very quickly and efficiently. Personally I am fortunate enough to be able to own two bikes, a ist gen 650 v strom with revalved and appropriately spung forks and a fully adjustable wilburs shock. As you know it is an amazing tourer and easy dirt road bike. I also own a 2014 dr 650 with full engine protection and respung and valved forks and standard shock. I am a primarily road rider trying to get into offroad adventure style riding, my main problem is not enough time to ride. I would like to say however with regards to the DR that it is extremely easy to work on, for example major services checking and resetting valve clearances are extremely simple whereas I baulk at doing the same for my strom.
Dr. 650 yes sir yes sir my choice bike desert racing. Only problem I ever had to date was the smog regulate fuel valve feed to carb. Fixed on spot and ran it to the end of week to replace it with a new one. And springing the front end is a must at 80mph running over desert shrubs like a Cadilac!! Almost as good as my old WR 390 husky CR Now that was a bike bike No street war machine
Great presentation Ian - thank you for finally mentioning the - frequently forgotten- Honda nc700x! With just a couple of obvious Mods, it certainly has a place in the adventure world.
You nailed the Tiger 800 xc. I have a 2014 and taken on some trails that I shouldn’t have and it handled it ok, but very top heavy.
i just bought a XR650L. Everyone i came across thought they had a gold bar under the seat. way over priced. anything in my area under $5k was a piece of crap or over 20 years old with a ton of miles. Friend of mine. Has a good friend who use to own a honda shop and had a very good used one he wanted to sell my friend said the guy went through everything and if it needed fixing or replacement he did it. I think i got a fair price with a lot of extras so i bought it. going to set it up for off road adventure riding. I now have a smaller off road bike to go with my KTM 1290.
If i get real good at off roading i might sell the 1290 for a KTM 890
Thanks. Always good information on your channel
I actually find that reaching for the front brake makes me automatically roll off the throttle, even if I started off in the “wrong” position. Also, another throttle tip might be to stop the blip. In other words, keep a steady throttle in most situations. IMO. Enjoyed you tops.
I have owned both a TW200 and DR 200. They are both very low and light which are great attributes for newer and older riders. Unfortunately the TW 200 tires are NOT good in mud, the center band of lugs is too close together and fills with mud instantly. I had one for 2 years and it wouldn't climb any kind of uphill in mud. The DR200 has 21/18 wheels so it can wear much more aggressive rubber. The DR 200 has slightly bigger rear drum than the TW so it stops better, and has a much bigger gas tank, I believe 3.3 gal vs 1.7 on the tdub. The TW however has a much better aftermarket except motorcycle tires. Some owners will put ATV tires on Tdubs for some really great mud handling. TW's are cooler but ultimately I sold mine. Other bikes may come and go in my garage but the DR 200 will always be there until I just can't ride at all.
Wow! Ian REALLY knows his bikes!! What a resource!!
Thank you for all the time and hard work you put into this video, Ian.
You truly have a passion for motorcycles, your channel, and your viewers. I absolutely love your channel! Keep up the awesome content!
Thank you very much!
I'd like to say something about the Versys. The first and second generation - 2007 to 2009 and 2010 to 2014 - are a LOT lighter than the third and fourth generation bikes. My 2009 model weighs 186 kgs dry, but the latest one is almost 15 kgs heavier. And it shows. The Versys is an extremely top-heavy bike. Add weight to that and it only gets worse. The vibrations on the first generation are so bad that for old buggers like me, they're only rideable with neoprene grips. The best ones are the second generation, where they fitted some rubber mounts to the engine.
I found a 2000 Aprilia Pegaso 650 with 800 miles on it. Such a great bike and it was very cheap! Better on road but still able to hit the dirt.
Great stuff and very informative! This is moto journalism :) Your (and MAD’s) review if the KTM 390 Adv made me buy one finally. Cheers 🇸🇪
Great to hear!
Good choice.
IMHO you are the best moto reviewer on youtube and i love your in depth and highly informative videos. Just wish i lived in the US and could experience some of the awesome off-roads you have around you. Keep up the great work!
Excellent video Ian! As you suggested commenting on other bikes, I'd like to mention Kawasaki's Super Sherpa, a great first dual-sport bike. While only a 250, it's under 300 lbs, has a 6-speed transmission, dual disc brakes, and a very comfortable (wide) seat. Yes, air-cooled and carbureted. Taking one on a guided demanding off-road adventure, it exceeded my expectations and did very well on secondary roads over 60MPH. Keep up the great work!
I know i'm a little bit late but i wanted to point out another "nice to know" fact about the F800 gs. You can find used F800 gs Adventure which featured longer travel suspensions, a different design to have more confort while touring, a bigger tank (450km-280 miles without stopping for gas) for about the same price, it's like a cheap R1200 gs adventure with a lot more off road capacity and less HP, i own one since 2020 and i'm deeply in love with it!
Amazing job! You deserve the good & professional reputation you have. Thank you so much for your hard work and original ways to add value to our community.
Great video, loved the info about different models from each manufacturer. I went with a 2016 KTM 1190 R
Thanks!
Excellent review and now I do understand why you could not review the Super Tenere. Thanks for the explanation. Keep up the good work.
Honestly I only clicked the video because I like the channel. I wasn't interested in the topic but it grew on me. Good video!
I appreciate that!
Great media product so very true there is so much great product out there some barely used and great fun. How to tighten a chain, change the oil and install new spark plugs ... maybe a new fuel filter, a suspension adjustment etc and that will get everyone out on the road loving this lifestyle too.
Hello Ian, Thankyou so much fort this vid. I just sold my Goldwing and am going to Adventure models. Really informative and learned a lot. Thinking of the KLR650. Then a 2024 used Africa Twin ES DCT adventure sports in the future. Great channel.
Your huge amount of work is much appreciated. Great information. Thanks
As much as I loved my 1190, avoid them imo. Fuel gauge, Fuel Pump, Ignition failures. But the biggest problem imo, is the placement of the air filter. The stock air filter was not sealed well and required an after market upgrade, not a huge deal as other bikes have the same issue. The air filter....one of the most important maintenance items if you are out in the dust and dirt....is under the tank. You have to remove the entire tank. Dealing with it out in the field, if you want to replace a prefilter for example, is just super annoying. Also top heavy and you sit in the bike vs. on top. But...
It is crazy fast and super fun to ride...it is a KTM after all. But my 17 701e is way, way more fun. A little sketchy on the highway at high speeds, but so much better off road and no issues after ~10k miles. Looking to get a mid class adv (890 vs 901 vs T700) for 2 up so this info has definitely saved me time.
If the 701e is a little too much, the 500/501's and 350/FEs are great bikes, but the maintenance intervals are low (~433 miles) for something like a BDR depending on logistics.
Thank you for all your hard work! Most appreciated! 🙏
My pleasure!
I think I've seen this video at least 10 times by now. I would like to have a updated view from you now, new bikes and two years later. Maybe one for every price bracket. Thanks!
Bought my 2012 DL1000 V-Strom brand new and just traded it in last year with 135K miles on it for my Tiger 900. Part of me wishes I would have went with a Strom again but that Triumph is brilliant
Great video! Thanks Ian for the work and passion that you put in to this videos👍
One advantage of the pre 2013 f800gs is that weights only 454lbs also the simplicity of the bike works towards it's advantage as it gets older
Awesome video. I learned a lot from it. Thank you and yes, I’d like to see some similar videos, although I do like your road test videos. I’m an old enduro rider looking into riding again at 70 years old. No more racing but riding for the love of riding! Ride on my brothers!
2012 R1200GS Camhead - put 60k miles on it. Easy DIY maintenance and great all-rounder.
This is the video I needed. All in one…Amazing Job👏🏼 Your work has been incredible on this channel. thank you
Just fantastic that you include the summary with an option to download
Superb job! Details galore based on first hand experience - fantastic. Thank you
For Europeans, as a proud owner of Honda Transalp 600 or 650, I need to mention this model. It has better offroad manners than traditional rival V-strom 650 thanks to higher ground clearence and 21 inch front wheel, also 28° steering angle. Although, it is on the heavier side and power does not compete with modern midsize ADVs. But it is pretty good on highway or longer distances thanks to V-twin engine, great stock sound as well. The prices on the second hand market are really affordable, around 3000 USD, plus you get the Honda bulletproof reliability.
Excellent presentation Ian. One bike you left off the list is Kawasaki KLR's little brother, the KLE 250 Sherpa. It is a 4 valve single 6 speed air cooled gem that is low enough for my 32 inch inseam. I had a used 2007 for 6 years and sold it for the same amount that I bought it for. Your sage advice about buying a small used one is right on target. I now have a Kawasaki Versys x 300 and love it. Dave from Nova Scotia, Canada
Hey Ian , Great very informative and pratical info , The Husky TE 630 , good power, good adjustable suspension , light - 150 kg , 6 speed and not tall - the predecesor to the KTM 690 .
This was the best used motorcycle guide I have ever seen. Yah you missed CRF L, but you did such a good job that I think we can let that slide. Heck, you can't find a used one anyway... same with the KLX 300...
Lots of good info there. Saw a dealer 2022 KLR with 28 miles on it the other day selling for $5,800. Then I was at a store and I saw a guy ON the bike and I asked him if it was from that dealer and he said "yeah!" and he'd gotten it for $5,200 plus they threw in a USB port install. OTOH, people in my neck of the woods are getting more than $6k for used KTM 390 adventures with a few thousand miles on them. Very little used inventory of any kind where I live.
Awesome content, as always. Must have take a ton of time, but it shows. Great work!
This is nit really on topic, but I wish BMW would re-make a smaller displacement boxer engine again, much like the original R80GS. I love my 2014 R1200GS, but I can see the utility of a lighter (much lighter) smaller boxer motorcycle. I love the torque of the Boxer design and the ease of maintenance!!!
totally agree
I agree 100% Gimme an oil cooled, 190 kg, 650cc boxer with 50 hp for €11,000 and I'll be all over it.
650 for moi too. I aglee.
There are 0, ZERO (new) teneres in the PNW US, then I see these Aussie reviews walking around a garage with a dozen or so fully decked out, and I can't help but think, please save some Teneres for the rest of us!!
I have two adventure bikes: Honda NX4 Falcon 400 and a Honda GL1200. The falcon is better for crappy roads and the Wing is better for long distance cruzing. Used to ride dirt but not so much any more. Talking price my Wing cost $1500 the Falcon was over double that.
Great video! Thanks for taking the time to do all the research.
You bet!
Wow nice job, Ian. Totally a premium/legacy kind of video that ppl will be referencing for a long time.
Ian, this was the best I’ve ever seen on used bikes 😊
Wow, thanks!
Ian, this video is so good I’ve watched it twice. You are my go to divisor getting ready to purchase having at Harleys up at this point ready to move on probably one of your recommendations.
Glad to help
Fantastic video, very informative especially for people like myself looking to get back into motorcycling 🏍 👍🏻
Very easy to dent the rims of the 3 spoke wheels on the old Vstroms. Re the F800GS, the upper shock bolt would bend quite easily due to a terrible design. The pre 2014 690 would break valve rockers and probably caused the poor reliability record of KTM.
Fantastic reviews thanks very much appreciated all your time & experience.
Thanks from Australia
What an awesome lecture! Thank you so much for sharing this! Had a blast watching it and learned quite a bit too.
Thank you for this! Looking for a fun bike in that price range and this helps a ton!