--- In DSN_klr650@y..., "joe_jacklovich" wrote:
> Hello All
>
> I have several newbie questions for you.
>
> I am thinking about getting a KLR as my first bike. I figure that
a
> dual sport is best. I am going to wear a helmet so the cruiser
scene
> is out for me. I am not into speed so no crotch rocket either.
Plus I
> plan on doing some dirt roads and maybe some easy trails.
>
> I think I would be better off with a KLR250 as a starter but I
also
> plan on doing some limited interstate riding and I am afraid the
250
> wouldn't be big enough for me. I am 6' 1" and 165 pounds.
>
> I am signed up for the MSF class here in a couple of weeks.
>
> So my question is would a 650 dual sport be a first good bike? I
am
> partial to the KLR but if I got a good deal on a DR650 or a XR650L
> that would be o.k. as well.
>
> I was going to ask about getting a deal from the dealer as the one
I
> went to seemed to want list price plus a set up fee. Seemed like a
> bit much. From the other posts it seems that I should be able to
do
> better than that.
>
> My other question is should I just go with a used bike instead of
a
> new one since while I am learning I will probably lay it down
anyway.
> The problem I see with a used bike is I don't know enough about
them
> to know what to look for.
>
> Thanks
> Joe in Denver
I bought my '01 a month ago for $3900. It only had 422 miles on it,
so it was like brand new. The fellow who bought it never took it off
road, so I felt like it was a steal. So, you can save some bucks by
going used. But on the other hand, Kawasaki is offering the no
payments until 2003 deal, so it might advantagious to go new. I have
only put about 400 miles on it so far, and I love the bike. It's
fine for easy trails and dirt roads, it has no problems there. And
it is smooth on the highway. I have taken it on the interstate and I
am quite comfortable there on it. I think it has a tame enough
demeanor for the beginner too. I had a DRZ400s and it was a nice
Dual Sport bike, but it was not comfortable enough for me. This is
my fourth dual sport bike and I think it is the best one.
Ed
A15