[dsn_klr650] klr feedback to newbie lurker

[InWoods13@aol.com]

I am considering moving from my current steed (Harley FXDL) to something more versatile. I saw a reference to the KLR on another board and thought I would check it out with the experts (you guys). How does this beast handle on the street. I tried one on at the local shop and boy is this guy TALL. I used to ride in the dirt just after dirt was discovered and a dirt bike was really a street bike with higher mounted pipes. Never owned a Harley, but used to ride them with my brother that was into collecting. Rode his Sportster and 883 a good bit. Other than that, my background is racing motocross, and riding dual sport bikes. Keep in mind that my opinion here, is on a Y2K KLR, stone stock. The KLR is intimidating at first sit.. because of the height & wide tank. You get used to it real quickly though. (lowering links are available, lowers the bike 1 1/2 to 2 inches, and am told it makes it seem like a different bike, handling wise) It's Very nimble on the street and sticks like glue in the turns with the stock Dunlops. Stock brakes (front & rear) and front springs are main weak points, easily fixed with after-market stuffs though. What kind of mileage do you get on the rode? I'm getting from 50 to 55mpg with an 80/20 road to off road mix. Will it do interstate speeds OK? I've had mine up to 85 on the street, felt completely at home. Been told they'll do 110 stock. Seems they'll do 70-80mph all day with no complaint. Its 6 gallon tank should take you 190-220 miles between fill ups, depending on riding style. Keep in mind, they're alot lighter than street-only bikes of same displacement, and you sit up alot higher. You get more of a feeling of the speed that you're going, than you do with street bikes. Which I don't mind at all, nice rush. If I get rid of the Harley then the KLR is going to have to take up commuting to work duties. About 50 miles a day. With an occasional trip to the dirt with my kids and their dirt bikes. It's alot of fun off road, been doing alot of exploring in the woods on the weekends. At times, off road two-up with Mrs.Scott. Opened a new world for her m'thinks. Been commuting to work on it four days a week average (about 20 miles round trip), big fun and usually unwound by the time I get home, less I had to yell at boneheads. I consider myself a purist as riding goes. Street only can be a blast, as dirt only can. Your bike should be able to do anything though, pavement & dirt. No limits. All best Scott A14 Sorrento