What "Dual Sport" should i get

gasman1 · Apr 27, 2009

I have narrowed down the desicion to either a Yamaha WR250R or Kawasaki KLX250S.

Wich bike would you chose and why?

I really do knot know wich bike is better, they both get good reviews.

Not Jobless · Apr 27, 2009

nate8887 · Apr 27, 2009

ktm also

Freeride · Apr 27, 2009

F KTM. :stirpot:

Either way, if you weigh more than 160 you'll be unhappy with either of those IMO. I rode a DRZ400 for 3-4 years and really liked it. Inherited my dad's 07 KLX250 when he passed away and it was incredibly underpowered. Sold that after 2-3 months and bought an RMZ450. I weigh just under 200 and that KLX250 felt like a moped.

If you're stuck on one of those two, I'd go with the Yamaha.

I still think the DRZ400 is the best DS made by any of the big 4. KTMs, Husqvarna, Aprilia, Gas Gas, Husaberg, etc. are sweet, but $$$$$$$ and parts availability isn't as good.

J_SIN · Apr 27, 2009

WR if you must get a 250, otherwise I agree with Freeride and would recommend a DRZ400. that model has been around for a looooong time, and for good reason.

if you arent already on there, check out www.thumpertalk.com

TONS of info on there for any 4 stroke bikes.

gasman1 · Apr 27, 2009

A buddy owns a drz400, i road his, but did not like the feel of the bike.

To heavy.....(330lbs)

super samurai · Apr 27, 2009

if you hit the freeway at all you will hate both of those, klr 650 great for dirt roads and pavement, b ut heavy. it depends on what you gonna use it for? you didn't specify?

Freeride · Apr 27, 2009

I hear you on the weight (my RMZ450 has a lot more HP and weighs 225 lbs.) but I've owned/ridden a ton of dual sports and the DRZ400 is still the only one I could recommend.

Freeride · Apr 27, 2009

Back to basics, height / weight? What type of riding - technical singletrack, dirt roads, paved roads, freeway?

gasman1 · Apr 28, 2009

Freeride said:
Back to basics, height / weight? What type of riding - technical singletrack, dirt roads, paved roads, freeway?

Light pavement use, Trail riding and logging roads most of the time.

I have owned big bikes in the past and do not like big bikes (over 400cc). i like a smaller bike, i am more of a "putter" than a speed demon.
Just need enough power to get me around. Nice and easy and enjoy the scenery.

I am a big guy 6'3", 300lbs.

Freeride · Apr 28, 2009

gasman said:
Light pavement use, Trail riding and logging roads most of the time.

I have owned big bikes in the past and do not like big bikes (over 400cc). i like a smaller bike, i am more of a "putter" than a speed demon.
Just need enough power to get me around. Nice and easy and enjoy the scenery.

I am a big guy 6'3", 300lbs.

OMG. You will bottom out the susp on either of those 250s and without regearing them, they will not have the torque to move you at all. Not trying to be offensive, but they're designed for 130lb women. If you just want to putt around, I'd take a look at the fat tire Yamaha TW200. The seat height will be low though.