Wilsons Sandbox

      Hello, I am new to the list. I own the F650 but it's too heavy for off-road and very expensive if dropped so  and I am actively seeking for the KLR650 bike so I can abuse it. One question: what is a real different between Pre'96 and Post'96 version of the bike in all area beside the color.   Thanks, Thanh Truo Thanh,    Although I`m not a big fan of the F650, my wife owns one and has so far taken it on some pretty rough stuff. While the F650 is a little heavier, it has a lower seat height and lower center of gravity, making it actually a lot easier to handle in dirt than I thought it would be. It comes down to experience and skill. I`ve ridden with guys that can take their  R1150GS anywhere most riders can take an XR650, and make the XR`s look bad.   I hate to say this, but I wouldn`t give up on the F650 till you`ve built up some off-road experience with it.At the same time, if you`re that uncomfortable with it, sell it and get a KLR650. I believe you`ll come to see that you`ll have as much trouble with the KLR650, until you get some experience on it. We`ve all been there, just ride. If you`re set on keeping the F650, I`d get a much lighter bike as my second. You`ll learn quicker and easier, and less expensively.   Adios Skip