i fucking love my KLR 650. it's absolutely bulletproof and has taken me all over the world. it's an amazing bike and i'm so happy to see it on this list.
I have a 2001 KLR650...I live in Pennsylvania, I ride gravel roads all day on my bike I love it....It's Mr. Reliable for sure....I'm a former Mountains Bike distance pro racer, Going 60-80 mph on gravel roads on my KLR turns me on,👍🇺🇲
No XR650L??? TIME TO RIOT BOYS. But seriously. There’s so much aftermarket support for the 650L it’s insane. Mines hot rodded out, and can shred anything even with the 18/21” wheels. Sumo 650L’s crush the Suzuki DRZ 400SM. Yeah they’re heavy, but that air cooled engine won’t let you down unless you run it out of oil. There’s a reason it hasn’t changed very much since the 80’s.
Thanks for the review! I bought my Honda XR650L in 2013. Since then I have ridden it 26,000 miles and most recently completed a 3,000 mile trip through Mexico. It still runs like a champ!!!
73 after owning and riding so many bikes I can’t remember them all stoped with 07 KLR and 07 TW !! Can’t say there the best but they are bomb proof !! And make me happy !!
Couldn't have agreed more! If they think the KLR is bulletproof, then the DR650 is a bleepin' tank! All of those are still great bikes! But the DR650 hits the spot in between: Beefier than the DRZ with dat tractor factor, lighter than the KLR, and more reliable and low-mainenace than the KTM. A perfect all-rounder in my book! Sidenote on the BMW though. If you want to get closer to actual dualsport on a beamer, check the 650gs or the f800gs. The 800 still comes in at around 200kg (440lbs for you heretics), but has really good off-road capabilities for its weight. Went on the TET in Sweden on the 800 this year, and had a blast! The only limitations came from me as a rider, the bike did an amazing job.
I enjoy my Yamaha WR450F, plenty of power for the freeway, and it's 80% dirt setup is nice in deep sand, single track, and it's virtually at home anywhere, it's my pick
@@hilbertlawrence7079 I'll tell ya, it's changed everything for me as a rider. The Woodzmam Adventure channel was the one that sold me on the bike, and the FortNine channel is what got me to appreciate foul weather riding. I was a fair-weather only rider before. (sunny and 70+°F) Now? Love the rain, ride when below freezing. It has opened a whole new world, and loving every minute. Considering my other bike is a Ducati Monster 1200R, that says a lot.
KLR man here. Love love love it, but the stock seat even with a gel cover makes my butt hurt after about 1.5 hrs. Think I am going to have to spring for the $420 Sargent seat after all, which is almost 10% of what I paid for the bike with 2500 miles on it. Too far in now with all the accessories I put on it to turn around. There’s a reason these bikes have a cult following. I feel like it’s a magic carpet that can go anywhere, and this tractor can haul me, my girlfriend, and probably another hundred pounds of stuff to camp or travel with, and not kill ourselves on, getting to those camping sites that a quad can’t even get to.
If ur tall and skinny like me, the wr250r is hands down the best bike for the combo of offroad performance and reliability. Low torque? Climbs steep singletrack with ease, just pin the throttle and keep the bike upright. You should ride these bikes yammy before writing them off...:)
The XR650R is the greatest dual sport ever made. Wasn’t street legal from the factory, but a $200 light kit gets you there. And your DR-Z bro friends will want to put a pistol in their mouth after they ride with you.
@@treeckogreen8577 oh yeah it's definitely a sexy looking bike. And it's cheap, so why not! I was thinking about getting it too, but it's more a 'might take it on gravel' kinda Nike than s proper dual sport, so that kinds cut it for me then
@@odkeky so far I've taken mine out on some sandy dirt bike trails and to a mud bath offroad park it's done surprisingly well. The only real problem is the 82mph top speed (fully loaded with filled panniers and a 60L top bag), but it's a small dual sport/adv it's not supposed to do long haul highway miles anyway.
Great video man, you even put one of my favorite pieces of music on it (Bach's D minor harpsichord concerto). Makes a big difference when someone doesn't put ear abuse music over their biking videos. Keep it up!
For me personally I think the 250cc duel sports are the best way to go. In the dirt you are absolutely for sure going to dump the bike lots of times. So at around 260-310 lbs picking it up won't be a problem when you're by yourself. Also Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki, and Yamaha are all about 20 or more HP, plenty for dirt and getting there on the street where dirt riding is within 30 miles or so.
I remember when BMW GS's had engines that sounded like a lawn mower, and transmissions from a tractor. Now you blip the throttle and they make real motorcycle noises and you get a quick shifter! 136hp, 105lbs torque, wow. Heaven!
Something a lot of people, even myself at times forget about the big bmw is that it weighs the same as a klr. The klr sucks at single track and nasty stuff but can do it if you muscle it around. I used to take mine on enduro trails and just had to really commit to everything. The gs is just an expensive klr with like quadruple the power. The main issue is the price. I used to see ktm guys way out in the mountains and they'd be like "how tf did you get that thing all the way out here" the answer- "i'm not sure either but here we are".
@@diogenes9809 I believe that You Are Mistaken SIRRR! KLR650 Dry/Wet weights in lbs.: 388/432 VS GS1250: 549/591. A 160 lbs advantage allows an extra male rider, or a girlfriend and all my gear. I'm not a hater, owned BMW's and Kawis. I'll go along with the KLR being a heavy middle weight, but the GS is in the super heavyweight class (just in case there's a heavier mass produced DP).
Everyone should spend at least six months on a Honda 300, adv or street version when first learning to ride on road. They are so good, and really fun! When I was a tot, circa 1970's, I had an XR75. I also had an RM80, then YZ100, then YZ125. I raced those, but when I just wanted to ride around in the woods, I would take the Honda XR. Or just putter around. The race bikes needed top ends somewhat frequently. The XR never needed anything but oil, air, filters, petrol and tires. Lots of rear tires 😁. Man, I loved that little bike. I bet it is still running somewhere, as it was somewhat indestructable.
My bike is a 2020 TW200, 280 pounds, 75 MPG , 31.5 seat height, MSRP $4600 . Cheap entry level dual sport and they have been making it since 87' so its been around for longer then KLR or DRZ so you know it's gotta have some parts on the market!
@AbyssFlight But that seat height is too low for some. My friend had one that I rode when I was thinking about buying my first dual sport. It was just too small for me, but I did really like it!
Many miles and years on KLRs and DRZs. And many more on BMWs, but that was in the 60s when your choice was either 500cc or 600cc and they only weighed 425 lbs. The great thing about both the KLR & DRZ is that they last forever, are easy to work on, easy to modify and cheap to buy. I had a mechanic in Ecuador tell me he thought the KLR was the best bike, bar none, for touring that country. From centuries old rutted llama trails to asphalt freeways outside Quito, it rules. My last was a DRZ with a smaller counter sprocket and larger chain wheel. It ran like a scalded cat and could handle more dirt than I could at age 74. I got tired of the potential for broken bones at my age, so I sold it and bought an ATV. The Honda weighs too much for 250 cc, the Yamaha WR is almost too much money, and the Beemer & KTM are way too much money. So, stick with the good old KLR and DRZ and you kids will have tons of cheap fun.
Dude thank you. Thank you so much for providing numbers, facts and insight on all these bikes. I literally can not find any good info on dual sport bikes on UA-cam. And when I do they test them strictly on dirt and not on the road. So frustrating 😂
No the decision is an issue I also looked for klx250, beta rr430 or husky fe450. I would like to buy one of these and have for life without disappointment or buying any new one in the future
Old 690 had some problems, but from 2016 forward, they are amazing bikes. I had one for a year, did 22.000 km on it. One of the best bikes i have ever had. (I had a DRZ 400 E also, good bike also.)
I love my 2019 Wr250r;kinda surprised the Honda beat it out since the Yamaha makes more hrs prs, is more capable on trails, and has fully adjustable suspension where as the Honda doesn’t. If anything, it shoulda been the Honda crf450l...just sayin✌🏻
Yep. WR kept Pace with the 650s the one 400 and a 790 on the TWAT. Spent about 4 hours on slab the 4th day returning with no problems. Thanks Seat Concepts.
I've got an older WR, the previous owner tricked it out for dedicated off road. It's a beast compared to the Honda. I never need to go below second gear no matter how steep the hill.
Hello dear Papa Yam, I live in a place you can ride year-round. Yesterday, my friend said I should wear a scarf to keep warm and that really helped while riding in the cold today. Here’s my request: can you please do “Strategies for Staying Warm on Your Bike” so I don’t freeze my little yam parts off? Thank
At 66 I've owned nothing but Yamaha's since I was 12. From back when we had to convert YZ's into enduro bikes to the one I just sold, my pride and joy WR450F. Like you mentioned, 'thinking outside the box' I bought a BMW 800GS and took it on some single track and quickly decided it's best suited for the dirt roads around the house. I have on order a KLX 300 so hopefully will be closer to the WR without the arm ripping raw power and 37" seat height. Thanks for the video.
I wonder if it’s because it’s not good for short people. I heard him mention seat height a couple times. I’m 6’2 and my XR’s seat height is just right for me, anyone shorter then that might have a bit of a struggle. To bad cause it is an awesome bike!
XT225 - that is my baby. The Serow is the cheapest yet most fun bike I owned so far. Every time I start thinking about selling it, I ride it and change my mind.
i wouldnt lump adv and dualsports together. ADV: long range touring, stout frame made for heavy hauling, suitable for mild off pavement riding Dualsport: street legal dirtbikes, low fuel range, designed for tough trail riding
Now we need rally-raid bikes. Something right in between. Think KLR-650 with the big fairing, but using the 690 motor. And definitely a subframe and big gas tank.
Thinking adv and dual sport are all that different is a bit of a misconception. I have a drz and my dad has an older big bmw. If we go out to trails we can trade bikes and i can throw the bmw around like a dirt bike. I have also kept pace with guys on 450's with a klr. Its more about marketing than capabilities. Main difference is cost, you pay a lot more for road manners but they can all go off road.
I've owned a WR250R for about 6 years now, and ridden the CRF250L and plenty of DRZs. I have to say, the price difference is massively justified (though yes, it should be cheaper). The WRR is just a better bike than the CRF in every way, and power is not that far off from the DRZ, especially once you get used to the power delivery. And this is coming from someone who also owns a plated WR400F. Plus, fuel injection and absolutely zero issues in over 15,000 H-A-R-D miles. Hands down the best bike I've ever (and probably ever will) owned.
They redid that CAMO from digital to triangle pattern this year, I think it looks good on the KLX 250, and pretty atrocious on the klx 650. My opinion, not trying to catch hate.
What's funny is all these bikes can be found used relatively, except for the crf250l. And I can tell you, it's cause for the price I paid and the mods I've put into it, I'd never sell mine.
I ride a 2016 Husky FE350S. I added parts from Best Dual Sports and turned it into an awesome on/off road bike. It'll crawl like a trials bike but will still pull 130km/hr on the pavement.
A lot of people in the comments are confused about the difference between a dual sport and a sport adventure. Big bmw or africa twin are not the best for trail, much better a lighter bike with 250cc - 400cc
Those GS's can be really, really expensive. However, they gave been making a version of it for along time. They can be pretty good used bikes. Some people, hipsters, buy'em to ride to Starbucks once a week. Meaning they are barely broken in. Or even higher mileage examples can be okay if owned by a meticulous , money having rider. You can find one owned by someone who didn't take care of it, or just wore it out, but usually not. They also can be rebuilt and it makes sense financially. Lots and lots of extras and parts for them.
I looked hard at the KLR but opted for the v strom 650 for better interstate riding. I really like the Triumph Tigers and the Yamaha 700 Tenere is suppose to be really good.
Yeah if you’re considering a KLR, you might as well go with something more capable on the road, it’s not like the KLR has any real off road capability.
I have a CRF250L and I must say that they actually put out about 18.5 hp stock from dyno tests, I love the bike but it is severely under powered even for a dual sport, Honda over claims the power big time I’m this bike
I bought a crf250l disappointed right from the start no power ,handled ok on road no good off road ,modified almost everything except rear shock ,which it definitely needed with more work on front shock, and with the1000 dollors or more upgrades a little better ,but still you better ride one in the condition your buying it for ,before you purchase.
@@erichgoodemote1158 If it made more power, it wouldn't get 70mpg. If it had better suspension, it wouldn't be as cheap. The bike is fine. It does benefit from a sprocket change. I'm quite happy with mine...
I was torn between the DRZ-400SM and the WR250R, and I ended up getting a 2016 WR250R for $3800. The WR250R is awesome. Best suspension, power and the lightest of the 250cc dual sports. The EFI is simpler than the DRZ's carb, and the WR250R has owners reporting over 50,000 miles, no rebuild! It's the DRZ's competitor for a reason Yammdog. I do envy the torque of the DRZ, but for the price it's hard to find a DRZ that isn't approaching a rebuild, vs a WRR that's good to go at higher mileage.
I'm with you, not sure why so much love for carbs. Does anybody have problems with their fuel injected bikes? I never have, and much better performance especially with altitude changes.
Had a KLR, went to a DRZ, now have a WR250R. With a 49 tooth rear sprocket it's the best of the three for off road but can still cruise at 110 klm per hour. And it's bulletproof! A!so have a Triumph Tiger 800 XCx for longer tours ( previous bike was a F800 GS). Do not understand why the BMW 1250 was even in this group tho!
No Honda Africa Twin :( One of the only liter bikes that also has a 21 inch front wheel. Edit: I'm biased because I ride one daily to work and on trails over the weekend.
I rode the KLR650 for 11 yars and close to 60K miles, and love it. It was top heavy and not fast, but I did go to Canada from Mexico and back and several trips around the Calfifornia cost... and some Baja desert and beach and 2 up....I would love to buy a 2nd one. Of course a GS would be like after robbing a bank, but soo sweet! Good video, maybe the DR650 from suzuki was not mention, but the Drz 400 is a better bike ...
I went VX because of seat height. The other dual purpose bikes with comperable seat height didnt have enough to handle the highway. Tried to ride a klr650 and found the damn thing recklessly tall for my short legs. Kept me off the dual sport market for damn near a decade.
LoL just got my First bike a crf250l a week ago and I'm super happy with it!!! But the weather here in Germany decided to be shit for a whole week soooo... first world problems....
I love my Honda bikes but have had excellent luck with my 2019 KTM 690 enduro R. Great suspension and a lot of power. Can do single track with it but also feels at home on hwy at speed and open gravel roads.
I don't remember where I saw this but as a CRF250 Rally owner I can say I agree with a review I saw a long time ago where someone described the CRF platform as "a cloud through the trails" touting how user friendly it is. I've ridden a lot of trails myself with several different bikes/manufacturers and I have to say, something about that bike gives it an incredible ability to go over, through, or up virtually anything...but very leisurely lol
Honda xr650l is by far the best dualsport made. I say that because I bought a new 2013 dr650 and currently own a klx230 also. Seat comfort on xr650l is much more comfortable. Torque is awesome. Quality is unmatched. Yes, the xr650l is way tall for most riders! But riding the xr650l is like being on a prized stallion. Literally sounds like a tractor when lugging and pulls like one to. Small fuel tank Yes. I just carry 2 aluminum bottles of fuel. Love my Honda xr650l. And highly recommend the klx230 also.
I think it's because of the lower seat height that he picked the crf250L for beginners, and the DRZ400 if you want more torque, also for beginners. The WR250r is better than either, but lacks torque and lower seat height for noobies. (Auto correct changed to boobies, 😂)
My favorite is the DR 650 just needs a bigger gas tank, a great all round bike, On I am thinking about for a litter bike for more difficult areas is the DRs 200 S It as a 12.5 L tank so not worried about always making sure there is a gas station on your way to the trails. Would love the Honda CRF 250L but the gas tank is just too small. It has been over 40 years that I have done any real off road so once I get the time in with the liter bike will most likely be using the DR 650, but need to brush up a bit first, as it will be a bit heavy with the 20 liter gas tank on for refreshing and learning new skills
My first bike was an XT200 back in 88... I just start riding a dr200 practically the same... it hasn't left me stranded or disappointed. Got it for 2K. Sure you can always get a bigger, faster bike but on the road that 's what a Ninja is for (I have Ninja 650)... I take my son along and can nearly get to 100 kph which is enough for rural roads. As mentioned, I now have a bike for putting in the gravel-logging roads and one for street. Still looking for the perfect bike that does all...
The thing that got me into Dual Sports was RCR's DR650 review; would've been another great honorable mention. Also did you know the military used to use Diesel KLR-650's for motorcycle couriers during the first invasion of Afghanistan? Throttle response was shit but you got like 90 miles a gallon on JP8 so you had nearly a 600 mile range.
If you were there thanks for being there for us. I'm a fan of diesel engines, not sure about a KLR though, must have been a 800 lb machine? Had a TDI Jetta that got 51 MPG and huge amount of torque.
@@HighCountryRambler I wasn't in when they were being used, only heard a couple stories from older guys and there's an exhibit on them in the Marine Corps museum in San Diego. From the official manual though, wet weight is only 430lbs, so not much different from a normal KLR of that generation.
Noob left off the Honda XR650L. Basically same exact bike since 1993. Lightest 650cc DS out there. Also tallest seat height (for tall riders). The KLR650 is the heavy weight of the 650’s and feels real top heavy. The DR650 is in the middle. Buy the XR used for a cheap light bike with tractor torque, the KLR if you will spend a lot of time on the road or carrying a ton of isht on your RTW trip, and the DR650 for the best of them both.
My KLR650 is not great at anything but it's good at Everything....I run a 16-42 gear ratio And ride Pennsylvania gravel roads all day. love my bike She's got 10,000 miles with no problems, 90%Forest gravel roads.., Hell ya👍🇺🇲
What do you mean "don't let the base price of 20K scare me away"? That's more than what I paid for my truck.
Lmao true😂
I thought that too xD
Thats more than i make in a year
More than what I paid for my Aprilia AND my car lol
More than i got for selling my kidney😂
Hey thanks for the kind shout-out! Someday we all need to ride here in the badlands. :)
Tyler i love your channel, your channel was the first one i watched about the Klr650!
@@iamlyons3530 Paul Fredette 5court St. Rutland vt apt.3 05701
i fucking love my KLR 650. it's absolutely bulletproof and has taken me all over the world. it's an amazing bike and i'm so happy to see it on this list.
rode one for a year. great bike
@mld Exactly cheap,reliable and tough..Might not have the performance of a ktm but they hardly ever break down either..
I have a 2001 KLR650...I live in Pennsylvania, I ride gravel roads all day on my bike I love it....It's Mr. Reliable for sure....I'm a former Mountains Bike distance pro racer, Going 60-80 mph on gravel roads on my KLR turns me on,👍🇺🇲
love my klr, its a beast
No XR650L??? TIME TO RIOT BOYS. But seriously. There’s so much aftermarket support for the 650L it’s insane. Mines hot rodded out, and can shred anything even with the 18/21” wheels. Sumo 650L’s crush the Suzuki DRZ 400SM. Yeah they’re heavy, but that air cooled engine won’t let you down unless you run it out of oil. There’s a reason it hasn’t changed very much since the 80’s.
Thanks for the review! I bought my Honda XR650L in 2013.
Since then I have ridden it 26,000 miles and most recently
completed a 3,000 mile trip through Mexico. It still runs like
a champ!!!
Nothing says "2nd divorce finalized" than a bmw 1200gs with some hi-vis gear 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
It that's what it takes to get myself a GS, ill be right back. Imma go get married and divorced!
Got 2 bikes after my 2nd 😎
Only if your woman didn't love u anyway
DR 650 is my pick. It's a little heavy but it's tough, reliable and a whole lot of fun.
Yes! I love my DR 650. Hope to take it around the world no matter what anyone says =)
@@SA_bluemonday hell yeah I got a drz but my next is for sure a dr650
I’d choose the xr650
73 after owning and riding so many bikes I can’t remember them all stoped with 07 KLR and 07 TW !! Can’t say there the best but they are bomb proof !! And make me happy !!
Yammiee!!! Where was the DR650!? Not even an honorable mention!? Wow, my dude.
Obviously not a dual sport guy haha.
Clue less about dual sport.
It is not that good from what Ive seen
Couldn't have agreed more!
If they think the KLR is bulletproof, then the DR650 is a bleepin' tank!
All of those are still great bikes! But the DR650 hits the spot in between:
Beefier than the DRZ with dat tractor factor, lighter than the KLR, and more reliable and low-mainenace than the KTM.
A perfect all-rounder in my book!
Sidenote on the BMW though. If you want to get closer to actual dualsport on a beamer, check the 650gs or the f800gs. The 800 still comes in at around 200kg (440lbs for you heretics), but has really good off-road capabilities for its weight. Went on the TET in Sweden on the 800 this year, and had a blast! The only limitations came from me as a rider, the bike did an amazing job.
Also the xr650l! Both classics
KLR650 = Toyota Hilux of the moto world!
For proof, refer to Top Gear's Hilux test and Fortnine's KLR test!
Uh, sorry but the xr650l takes the spot of Toyota Hilux of dual sports.
@@brendonjohnson6595 nah I say XR400 wins there.
sounds about right hiluxes have as many issues as a klr650 and they're both mediocre offroad.
yup i ride a 692 klr
That's a great bike, but the XR650L is still in production, unlike the KLR and XR400
I enjoy my Yamaha WR450F, plenty of power for the freeway, and it's 80% dirt setup is nice in deep sand, single track, and it's virtually at home anywhere, it's my pick
It was this Yammie video, that first put me onto the CRF250L and ultimately led me to buy one.
I haven't regretted it one single day.
Me too
@@hilbertlawrence7079 I'll tell ya, it's changed everything for me as a rider. The Woodzmam Adventure channel was the one that sold me on the bike, and the FortNine channel is what got me to appreciate foul weather riding. I was a fair-weather only rider before. (sunny and 70+°F) Now? Love the rain, ride when below freezing. It has opened a whole new world, and loving every minute.
Considering my other bike is a Ducati Monster 1200R, that says a lot.
250 L best under-rated dual sport bike of all time!
250 L the most underpowered dual sport of all time! Fixed it for ya
The crf250l literally has no balls
@@bikesnguns1616 if my bike had hands it would kick your a$$ 😂🤣😀🤣 250 L ROCKS!
@@Rah1381 yeah ok...
@@SnipifiedHQ my duel sport said your ma ma
KLR man here. Love love love it, but the stock seat even with a gel cover makes my butt hurt after about 1.5 hrs. Think I am going to have to spring for the $420 Sargent seat after all, which is almost 10% of what I paid for the bike with 2500 miles on it. Too far in now with all the accessories I put on it to turn around. There’s a reason these bikes have a cult following. I feel like it’s a magic carpet that can go anywhere, and this tractor can haul me, my girlfriend, and probably another hundred pounds of stuff to camp or travel with, and not kill ourselves on, getting to those camping sites that a quad can’t even get to.
Yamaha XT 250 , 72 mpg, 31.5” seat height, fuel injected, reliable, amazing, super light, durable
Own it and love it!
I got a 1980 XT250 it's awesome!!!!
Can we super moto an XT with wheels and street tires?
grumpysquid like supermoto
XT250 is a Great bike for beginners and longtime riders. Recently got my wife one and she loves how easy it is to handle, and so do I.
HONDA XR650L better off road then KLR650 and still in production.
KTM 350 Also like a 100 lbs lighter than a KLR
DR650! For when your XR650 won't stop overheating and you don't want to break the plastic off your KLR.
Enough said!
XR is my pick of the litter for the single cylinder dual sports
@@jasonbrown7330 yes but the 400...
If ur tall and skinny like me, the wr250r is hands down the best bike for the combo of offroad performance and reliability. Low torque? Climbs steep singletrack with ease, just pin the throttle and keep the bike upright. You should ride these bikes yammy before writing them off...:)
i would be happy if it had 5 more hp
I've got a DRZ400S and it works great. Buddy and I ride all over Colorado. It's not the prettiest, fastest or highest tech, but it's rock solid.
I like the Yamaha xt250 nice little bike to do whatever with!
YES FINALLY DUAL SPORT
@mld yes my suzuki ts 70xk Will take me any where and go 60 mph AT 10500 rpm
1:15 Honda CRF250L
3:31 Suzuki DRZ-400
6:02 Bmw R1250GS
8:40 Kawasaki KLR 650
9:56 Ktm 690 ENDURO R
Thank you!
The KLR is awesome. The BMW, way to prices and it's expensive AF to maintain. I'll take that DR though. Nice list Yammie
Wr250r deserves more respect. I've owned a Drz 400, a CRF250L, xr 400, Xr 650, and the Wr is my favorite.
How is the WR better than a DRZ400?
@@grumpysquid Carburator. I ride 7-12000 ft elevation. Have to re-jet if I go to anywhere below 5000.
The XR650R is the greatest dual sport ever made. Wasn’t street legal from the factory, but a $200 light kit gets you there. And your DR-Z bro friends will want to put a pistol in their mouth after they ride with you.
Just picked up a Royal Enfield Himalayan dual-sport as my first bike. Got a nice low 31 inch seat hight but some decent ground clearance
In India?
Oh our man Yammy hates those
@@odkeky and I've been loving it ever since. I'd love to have him actualy ride it rather than just bash the spreadsheet
@@treeckogreen8577 oh yeah it's definitely a sexy looking bike. And it's cheap, so why not! I was thinking about getting it too, but it's more a 'might take it on gravel' kinda Nike than s proper dual sport, so that kinds cut it for me then
@@odkeky so far I've taken mine out on some sandy dirt bike trails and to a mud bath offroad park it's done surprisingly well. The only real problem is the 82mph top speed (fully loaded with filled panniers and a 60L top bag), but it's a small dual sport/adv it's not supposed to do long haul highway miles anyway.
Great video man, you even put one of my favorite pieces of music on it (Bach's D minor harpsichord concerto). Makes a big difference when someone doesn't put ear abuse music over their biking videos. Keep it up!
For me personally I think the 250cc duel sports are the best way to go. In the dirt you are absolutely for sure going to dump the bike lots of times. So at around 260-310 lbs picking it up won't be a problem when you're by yourself. Also Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki, and Yamaha are all about 20 or more HP, plenty for dirt and getting there on the street where dirt riding is within 30 miles or so.
I remember when BMW GS's had engines that sounded like a lawn mower, and transmissions from a tractor. Now you blip the throttle and they make real motorcycle noises and you get a quick shifter! 136hp, 105lbs torque, wow. Heaven!
I cannot believe that the BMW GS was included in this video. Its not in the same class. You should have substituted a Suzuki DR650 instead.
Or at least the BMW 310 GS not a 1250cc
Or at least the honda crf 1000l...
Hilarious, I can take my XR 150 down rugged dirt tracks that would destroy a GS. No way that should be on this list.
Something a lot of people, even myself at times forget about the big bmw is that it weighs the same as a klr. The klr sucks at single track and nasty stuff but can do it if you muscle it around. I used to take mine on enduro trails and just had to really commit to everything. The gs is just an expensive klr with like quadruple the power. The main issue is the price. I used to see ktm guys way out in the mountains and they'd be like "how tf did you get that thing all the way out here" the answer- "i'm not sure either but here we are".
@@diogenes9809 I believe that You Are Mistaken SIRRR! KLR650 Dry/Wet weights in lbs.: 388/432 VS GS1250: 549/591. A 160 lbs advantage allows an extra male rider, or a girlfriend and all my gear. I'm not a hater, owned BMW's and Kawis. I'll go along with the KLR being a heavy middle weight, but the GS is in the super heavyweight class (just in case there's a heavier mass produced DP).
Everyone should spend at least six months on a Honda 300, adv or street version when first learning to ride on road. They are so good, and really fun! When I was a tot, circa 1970's, I had an XR75. I also had an RM80, then YZ100, then YZ125. I raced those, but when I just wanted to ride around in the woods, I would take the Honda XR. Or just putter around. The race bikes needed top ends somewhat frequently. The XR never needed anything but oil, air, filters, petrol and tires. Lots of rear tires 😁. Man, I loved that little bike. I bet it is still running somewhere, as it was somewhat indestructable.
Big BMW is no dual sport , it's and adventure elephant.
Scrammy Dude you must be letting that biscotti go to the grey matter for the lil xt250 is the shortest of them all
My bike is a 2020 TW200, 280 pounds, 75 MPG , 31.5 seat height, MSRP $4600 . Cheap entry level dual sport and they have been making it since 87' so its been around for longer then KLR or DRZ so you know it's gotta have some parts on the market!
Ive pulled over 90 mpg offroad with my 2019
@AbyssFlight But that seat height is too low for some. My friend had one that I rode when I was thinking about buying my first dual sport. It was just too small for me, but I did really like it!
Many miles and years on KLRs and DRZs. And many more on BMWs, but that was in the 60s when your choice was either 500cc or 600cc and they only weighed 425 lbs. The great thing about both the KLR & DRZ is that they last forever, are easy to work on, easy to modify and cheap to buy. I had a mechanic in Ecuador tell me he thought the KLR was the best bike, bar none, for touring that country. From centuries old rutted llama trails to asphalt freeways outside Quito, it rules. My last was a DRZ with a smaller counter sprocket and larger chain wheel. It ran like a scalded cat and could handle more dirt than I could at age 74. I got tired of the potential for broken bones at my age, so I sold it and bought an ATV. The Honda weighs too much for 250 cc, the Yamaha WR is almost too much money, and the Beemer & KTM are way too much money. So, stick with the good old KLR and DRZ and you kids will have tons of cheap fun.
Dude thank you. Thank you so much for providing numbers, facts and insight on all these bikes. I literally can not find any good info on dual sport bikes on UA-cam. And when I do they test them strictly on dirt and not on the road. So frustrating 😂
Loveeee my 2014 Honda CRF 250-L! Definitely recommend.
Ryan's Outdoor Channel I have a 2019 crf 250l wicked bike I love it !
Don't know which to pick 250 or 450 would like to get an answer
Damjan Simic is money an issue ? What are you looking to get out of it I love love my 250l ! I can try my best to answer all your questions
No the decision is an issue I also looked for klx250, beta rr430 or husky fe450. I would like to buy one of these and have for life without disappointment or buying any new one in the future
@@ДамианСимић if you want to buy something you're planning on keeping for a long time always buy a Honda other bikes are fun but Honda is forever.
85 Honda XL 600R is a blast but my first bike, just started riding in '19 at 38.
*WHAAAAAAT??? No DR650???* Not even an honorable mention? What evil sacrilege! All hail the DR650. I must pray for your soul.
Old 690 had some problems, but from 2016 forward, they are amazing bikes. I had one for a year, did 22.000 km on it. One of the best bikes i have ever had.
(I had a DRZ 400 E also, good bike also.)
I love my 2019 Wr250r;kinda surprised the Honda beat it out since the Yamaha makes more hrs prs, is more capable on trails, and has fully adjustable suspension where as the Honda doesn’t. If anything, it shoulda been the Honda crf450l...just sayin✌🏻
Wr250r by far. The Honda doesn't hold a candle to the wr. I love mine
the honda is cheaper and has a lower seat, the road legal WR250 is not available in my country, but I would take the WR over the honda too
Yep. WR kept Pace with the 650s the one 400 and a 790 on the TWAT. Spent about 4 hours on slab the 4th day returning with no problems. Thanks Seat Concepts.
I've got an older WR, the previous owner tricked it out for dedicated off road. It's a beast compared to the Honda. I never need to go below second gear no matter how steep the hill.
Can the ride height be lowered?
Hello dear Papa Yam, I live in a place you can ride year-round. Yesterday, my friend said I should wear a scarf to keep warm and that really helped while riding in the cold today. Here’s my request: can you please do “Strategies for Staying Warm on Your Bike” so I don’t freeze my little yam parts off? Thank
FortNine also has a knowledgeable, skilled and professional YT content creator; which Yammie is clearly missing on.
No WR250R?
At 66 I've owned nothing but Yamaha's since I was 12. From back when we had to convert YZ's into enduro bikes to the one I just sold, my pride and joy WR450F. Like you mentioned, 'thinking outside the box' I bought a BMW 800GS and took it on some single track and quickly decided it's best suited for the dirt roads around the house. I have on order a KLX 300 so hopefully will be closer to the WR without the arm ripping raw power and 37" seat height.
Thanks for the video.
I can't believe that the Honda XR650L wasn't mentioned. Wow.
I CANT THE DR650 HASENT BEEN MENTIONED EATHER
Can’t believe the cb350 wasn’t mentioned
I wonder if it’s because it’s not good for short people. I heard him mention seat height a couple times. I’m 6’2 and my XR’s seat height is just right for me, anyone shorter then that might have a bit of a struggle. To bad cause it is an awesome bike!
XT225 - that is my baby. The Serow is the cheapest yet most fun bike I owned so far. Every time I start thinking about selling it, I ride it and change my mind.
huh i was thinking about getting a XT250
I’m loving the dual sport content! Keep branching out that direction, Yammie!
How about the XT250?! You forgot the legend of short bikes (shorter than the CRF250L) or was that intentionally left out for some reason?
It is the successor of the XT225 (Serow) that was mentioned at the end of the video. Everide has a good video about both.
Another famous R1200GS rider: Neil Peart, the drummer from Rush. RIP Good Sir.
Good choices, by the way, and it would be the DRZ for me.
Recognized that access road to I-35 immediately💕
i wouldnt lump adv and dualsports together.
ADV: long range touring, stout frame made for heavy hauling, suitable for mild off pavement riding
Dualsport: street legal dirtbikes, low fuel range, designed for tough trail riding
Yeah people use the two terms interchangeably these days, a damn GS is by no means a dual sport bike lol
Now we need rally-raid bikes. Something right in between. Think KLR-650 with the big fairing, but using the 690 motor. And definitely a subframe and big gas tank.
Thinking adv and dual sport are all that different is a bit of a misconception. I have a drz and my dad has an older big bmw. If we go out to trails we can trade bikes and i can throw the bmw around like a dirt bike. I have also kept pace with guys on 450's with a klr. Its more about marketing than capabilities. Main difference is cost, you pay a lot more for road manners but they can all go off road.
“CRF250L has lowest seat height”
*XT250 has entered the chat*
Up the XT250
No Africa Twin on this list? *head scratch*
I think that the yamaha xt 660 should make it in
How is it that you missed the Yamaha TW200!?
And the XT250
cause its a top 5 not a top 6
Well said
I have the 2012 Klx 250...I paid $2800 used. it's been tweaked and a new FMF...it rocks! It's 1 of 3 bikes in my stable. mt07 & R6 are it's siblings.
#1 Honda CRF 250L great dual bike for the price
I've owned a WR250R for about 6 years now, and ridden the CRF250L and plenty of DRZs. I have to say, the price difference is massively justified (though yes, it should be cheaper). The WRR is just a better bike than the CRF in every way, and power is not that far off from the DRZ, especially once you get used to the power delivery. And this is coming from someone who also owns a plated WR400F.
Plus, fuel injection and absolutely zero issues in over 15,000 H-A-R-D miles. Hands down the best bike I've ever (and probably ever will) owned.
They redid that CAMO from digital to triangle pattern this year, I think it looks good on the KLX 250, and pretty atrocious on the klx 650. My opinion, not trying to catch hate.
What's funny is all these bikes can be found used relatively, except for the crf250l. And I can tell you, it's cause for the price I paid and the mods I've put into it, I'd never sell mine.
I've owned two klr 250s over the years... I've regretted selling them both times...
jjfromthebigland if that does t explain my life
Honda xr650l is a good one as well
Xr650r is better
650r may be better overall, but 650l will outlast every bike on this list!
I'm happy with my DRZ400S, on the road or off and it's been on the track once and will be more often if and when I can.
*bursts out of the time machine* The KLR is back!
I'll stick with my old XT225, but thanks ;)
I ride a 2016 Husky FE350S. I added parts from Best Dual Sports and turned it into an awesome on/off road bike. It'll crawl like a trials bike but will still pull 130km/hr on the pavement.
Honda XR650L in the same boat as the DRZ and KLR but like the DRZ it is still in production. So a bit of a one up over the KLR, especially off-road.
A lot of people in the comments are confused about the difference between a dual sport and a sport adventure. Big bmw or africa twin are not the best for trail, much better a lighter bike with 250cc - 400cc
finally some sense
Thanks for sharing! Great video! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Honda CRF250L my favourite of them all 👍
Those GS's can be really, really expensive. However, they gave been making a version of it for along time. They can be pretty good used bikes. Some people, hipsters, buy'em to ride to Starbucks once a week. Meaning they are barely broken in. Or even higher mileage examples can be okay if owned by a meticulous , money having rider. You can find one owned by someone who didn't take care of it, or just wore it out, but usually not. They also can be rebuilt and it makes sense financially. Lots and lots of extras and parts for them.
While similar to a ktm. The Husqvarna 701 has to be on this list.
Also Honda Tornado 250, Yamaha XTZ 250, both very popular in LatinAmerica 😉
You chose some really heavy dual sports
Long live the savage, YamYam and his KLR 650. Does it all. Let the good time roll.
I looked hard at the KLR but opted for the v strom 650 for better interstate riding. I really like the Triumph Tigers and the Yamaha 700 Tenere is suppose to be really good.
Yeah if you’re considering a KLR, you might as well go with something more capable on the road, it’s not like the KLR has any real off road capability.
I have a CRF250L and I must say that they actually put out about 18.5 hp stock from dyno tests, I love the bike but it is severely under powered even for a dual sport, Honda over claims the power big time I’m this bike
I bought a crf250l disappointed right from the start no power ,handled ok on road no good off road ,modified almost everything except rear shock ,which it definitely needed with more work on front shock, and with the1000 dollors or more upgrades a little better ,but still you better ride one in the condition your buying it for ,before you purchase.
@@erichgoodemote1158 If it made more power, it wouldn't get 70mpg. If it had better suspension, it wouldn't be as cheap. The bike is fine. It does benefit from a sprocket change. I'm quite happy with mine...
I was torn between the DRZ-400SM and the WR250R, and I ended up getting a 2016 WR250R for $3800. The WR250R is awesome. Best suspension, power and the lightest of the 250cc dual sports. The EFI is simpler than the DRZ's carb, and the WR250R has owners reporting over 50,000 miles, no rebuild! It's the DRZ's competitor for a reason Yammdog. I do envy the torque of the DRZ, but for the price it's hard to find a DRZ that isn't approaching a rebuild, vs a WRR that's good to go at higher mileage.
I'm with you, not sure why so much love for carbs. Does anybody have problems with their fuel injected bikes? I never have, and much better performance especially with altitude changes.
Had a KLR, went to a DRZ, now have a WR250R. With a 49 tooth rear sprocket it's the best of the three for off road but can still cruise at 110 klm per hour. And it's bulletproof! A!so have a Triumph Tiger 800 XCx for longer tours ( previous bike was a F800 GS). Do not understand why the BMW 1250 was even in this group tho!
I own a drz and a Klr , love them both in different ways . Great video, don’t forget the dr 650 though.
No Honda Africa Twin :( One of the only liter bikes that also has a 21 inch front wheel.
Edit: I'm biased because I ride one daily to work and on trails over the weekend.
That AT can go just about anywhere, biased here also
For me the Yamaha xt250 was a shorter bike that fit my 5’6” frame. I’m excited to learn and start riding with my man.
and for the hardcore MX rider that wishes he could ride on the street all the KTM exc and exc-f line up 👍
I'm a firm believer in having a dirt bike and a separate street bike so I'm screaming CRF forever!!!
I rode the KLR650 for 11 yars and close to 60K miles, and love it. It was top heavy and not fast, but I did go to Canada from Mexico and back and several trips around the Calfifornia cost... and some Baja desert and beach and 2 up....I would love to buy a 2nd one. Of course a GS would be like after robbing a bank, but soo sweet!
Good video, maybe the DR650 from suzuki was not mention, but the Drz 400 is a better bike ...
I went VX because of seat height. The other dual purpose bikes with comperable seat height didnt have enough to handle the highway. Tried to ride a klr650 and found the damn thing recklessly tall for my short legs. Kept me off the dual sport market for damn near a decade.
LoL just got my First bike a crf250l a week ago and I'm super happy with it!!! But the weather here in Germany decided to be shit for a whole week soooo... first world problems....
What do you think of the Honda CRF450L... I watched your video, but didn't see it mentioned?
I love my Honda bikes but have had excellent luck with my 2019 KTM 690 enduro R. Great suspension and a lot of power. Can do single track with it but also feels at home on hwy at speed and open gravel roads.
Awesome bikes but it's so expensive to buy and run
Hey, gotta throw the XR650 into the mix!
What about the mighty DR 650se
Nice one, job well done once again, digging it!!!
I don't remember where I saw this but as a CRF250 Rally owner I can say I agree with a review I saw a long time ago where someone described the CRF platform as "a cloud through the trails" touting how user friendly it is. I've ridden a lot of trails myself with several different bikes/manufacturers and I have to say, something about that bike gives it an incredible ability to go over, through, or up virtually anything...but very leisurely lol
Honda xr650l is by far the best dualsport made. I say that because I bought a new 2013 dr650 and currently own a klx230 also. Seat comfort on xr650l is much more comfortable. Torque is awesome. Quality is unmatched. Yes, the xr650l is way tall for most riders! But riding the xr650l is like being on a prized stallion. Literally sounds like a tractor when lugging and pulls like one to. Small fuel tank Yes. I just carry 2 aluminum bottles of fuel. Love my Honda xr650l. And highly recommend the klx230 also.
Dual Sport bikes are the best
You can drive them in the city and maybe go on some dirt along the way!
The Honda CRF450L belongs on this list, it is an absolute blast!
More dual sport content! Wr250r should be up there as well. Very underrated but more powerful and lighter than the crf250L
I think it's because of the lower seat height that he picked the crf250L for beginners, and the DRZ400 if you want more torque, also for beginners. The WR250r is better than either, but lacks torque and lower seat height for noobies. (Auto correct changed to boobies, 😂)
My favorite is the DR 650 just needs a bigger gas tank, a great all round bike, On I am thinking about for a litter bike for more difficult areas is the DRs 200 S It as a 12.5 L tank so not worried about always making sure there is a gas station on your way to the trails. Would love the Honda CRF 250L but the gas tank is just too small. It has been over 40 years that I have done any real off road so once I get the time in with the liter bike will most likely be using the DR 650, but need to brush up a bit first, as it will be a bit heavy with the 20 liter gas tank on for refreshing and learning new skills
My first bike was an XT200 back in 88... I just start riding a dr200 practically the same... it hasn't left me stranded or disappointed. Got it for 2K. Sure you can always get a bigger, faster bike but on the road that 's what a Ninja is for (I have Ninja 650)... I take my son along and can nearly get to 100 kph which is enough for rural roads. As mentioned, I now have a bike for putting in the gravel-logging roads and one for street. Still looking for the perfect bike that does all...
The thing that got me into Dual Sports was RCR's DR650 review; would've been another great honorable mention. Also did you know the military used to use Diesel KLR-650's for motorcycle couriers during the first invasion of Afghanistan? Throttle response was shit but you got like 90 miles a gallon on JP8 so you had nearly a 600 mile range.
If you were there thanks for being there for us. I'm a fan of diesel engines, not sure about a KLR though, must have been a 800 lb machine? Had a TDI Jetta that got 51 MPG and huge amount of torque.
@@HighCountryRambler I wasn't in when they were being used, only heard a couple stories from older guys and there's an exhibit on them in the Marine Corps museum in San Diego. From the official manual though, wet weight is only 430lbs, so not much different from a normal KLR of that generation.
Noob left off the Honda XR650L. Basically same exact bike since 1993. Lightest 650cc DS out there. Also tallest seat height (for tall riders).
The KLR650 is the heavy weight of the 650’s and feels real top heavy. The DR650 is in the middle.
Buy the XR used for a cheap light bike with tractor torque, the KLR if you will spend a lot of time on the road or carrying a ton of isht on your RTW trip, and the DR650 for the best of them both.
I'm saving for a Versys 300X as my first bike 🤙
My KLR650 is not great at anything but it's good at Everything....I run a 16-42 gear ratio And ride Pennsylvania gravel roads all day. love my bike She's got 10,000 miles with no problems, 90%Forest gravel roads.., Hell ya👍🇺🇲