Posted by William --Previous Message--
on 9/9/2003, 6:13 pm, in reply to "KLR 650/250"
66.19.76.28
The 250 and 650 are like apples and oranges. Thay both have 9.1 inches of suspension front and rear, which sometimes isn't enough (I ride my KLR 250 in the Ocala National Forest in Florida). I think it depends what you value most; on road, or off road? I value off road more. The 250 is better in most off road situations. It is 258 lbs dry versus 337 for the 650. That 69 lb difference is the biggest factor. The 250 suspension is easy to overexert as it is; could you imagine how bad the 650 would be? The 250 is top heavy compared to a 250 enduro. The 650 is worse. The 650 has much more power; however, power isn't always everything. A heavier, more powerful bike can be too hard to handle and can wear you out quicker (of course your height and weight and strength may help you on the 650). With a few engine mods, suspension work, and the right tires, the 250 will be more than adequate (in the thick Florida sand, tires are the most important factor, suspension is a close second, power is least important). If offroad isn't too important, get the 650. The 6.1 gallon gas tank (250 is 2.9), much more power, and ergonomics that would fit your taller frame better, the 650 would be the choice. for the best of both worlds, consider the Suzuki 400 dual sport (I know this is blasphemy on a KLR website). My next dual sport may actually be a Honda CRF450 motocross bike converted to a dual sport (or the XR450F enduro, if they ever make one).
: I am looking to pick up a new Kawasaki KLR and
: am looking for advice about whether it
: should be a 250 or 650. I am about
: 6'1" and 250lbs and plan to ride it
: back and forth to work (couple of miles
: 45 mph) and take off up the canyons (Utah)
: as often as time permits. Plenty of
: off-road planned. Any suggestions?
:
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