honda nx650 across aus?? info needed.
 

hey gang.

i have my trip across Australia planned for late april/may area. i've been hunting for used bikes in aus. on the net and have somewhat decided on 2 models. the klr 650 and the honda nx650. we have klr's here (Canada) and it wouldnt be my first choice for cross country travel. a dl1000 or dl650 are out of the budget, so the nx650 has caught my eye.

a few questions, are they highway worth (speeds in excess of 130kmh?)
.what is there fuel tank capacity?
.is there hard bags available for them?
.will they carry a passenger?
>do they have a good reputation?

like i said, all the prices seem to be in my budget whish is under 4500 aus. dollar.
any help would be appreciated, thanks alot.

Hello.

I used to have a NX650 Dominator and I loved that bike.

Speeds in excess of 130Kmh in Australia are not needed as the speed limit is 110Kph almost everywhere except in the NT. It could do 130Kph but it would be screaming its t***s out and shaking you a lot.

They can carry a passenger OK but the seat is not the most confy for a pillion. I loved the rider's position as my legs were very extended so no leg cramps while riding.

Can't remember the exact size of the tank but I think they are about 19lts, mine wasn't very economic as I had to refuel every 180-200 Kms.

The other problem you may have is that being a big single it vibrates a lot and I know it can be annoying on long distances.

I don't think I saw any hard bags specifically for the Domi but you can adapt them. People get rid of one of the silencers and use the space to fit a PVC pipe to carry a few more stuff and keeping them out of the way.

A single like the NX650 (called "the dominator", or "dommie" in most places) is not the first choice for either two up, or for long highway miles like those you face in Australia. It is a good choice though if you are planning on taking dirt tracks. A compromise, like most of the 650cc singles overlanders favour. A fast comfortable off-road machine doesn't really exist. It can't.

Australia is a difficult one to call, because the highway distances are so vast, but the dirt track opportunities are excellent. You'll have to think about your priorities. A big old fared thing would do the job well, but exclude some of the interesting dirt-road spots. Similarly, a 250 D/S would be a hoot on dirt, but tiresome after days on tarmac. That's why most of us plump for something in the middle, like, humm, an NX650.

The dommie has an excellent reputation, and you wont go far wrong with one. But forget the speedy touring. Most loaded-up singles of this size like to sit at about 100km/h and not much more. Anyway, what's the rush... relax, smell the marsupial roadkill.