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Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

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Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



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  #1  
Old 26 Mar 2002
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F650
Hi,

Can anyone tell me the average max. mileage of a f650 (carburator) before it needs overhaul?? what were the major diferences introduced from '94 to '99? which one is the most reliable?

Thanks!!

renato
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  #2  
Old 26 Mar 2002
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Hi Renato

I don't have the answer but you could try the message board at the F650 website - 'The Chain Gang'.

Details at www.f650.com/messageboard/

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  #3  
Old 16 Apr 2002
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BMW gave the F650 a "facelift" in 1996 - only cosmetical changes (fairing, front indicators etc).

The motors are the same for all F650s (non-GS models).

I have heard some scary figures quoted in terms of reliability - people talking of exceeding 100 000 miles before needing an overhaul. I suppose it depends how the machine is used!

I agree with the suggestion above - f650.com provides much feedback.

Bernard
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  #4  
Old 16 Apr 2002
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hi,

I have been looking around and XT600e are much cheaper bikes. I plan to use the bike for: comuting (about 50 km/day), weekend travelling (about 400 Km twice a month) and some desert travelling action (I am looking at algeria!!!!).
For around 2500 Euros I can buy a decent, recent and low mileage XT, for the same money all I get from BMW are doggy, '94 tired F650s... My question is, does the F650 is that superior to XT that justifies the diference in price?? Or am I just paying the BMW status??

I recognize that the Funduro is a superior bike (by far of course...) but the diference in price.... I am a student and the fact that a XT will cost +-1250 Euros less then a funduro in the same condition is hard to beat.

I will apreciate some coments on my thoughts.

Thanks guys

renato
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Old 18 Apr 2002
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I had the same quandry a few years ago: Splurge for a used F650 or go cheap and buy a Kaw. KLR650. The price diff. here in the US was more than $5,000. Needless to say, I opted for a $2,000 KLR (used). I figured I wouldn't feel as bad if I wrecked it or it got stolen. Still, IMHO, the F650 is build much better and has a better ride: Not so rough and tough as the KLR. But I'd feel bad about thrashing it offroad, too.

Kurt
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Old 19 Apr 2002
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If you haven't already:

For a balanced answer to this question, you might want to ask the 'which bike?' section of the BB. After all, asking a bunch of BMW owners if an F650 is worth the extra $.....
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Old 19 Apr 2002
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ok... sorry...
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Old 20 Apr 2002
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G'day Renato,

I had a similar dilemma - F650 or KLR650 (an XT was too tall to consider)? I bought the F650 (second-hand) but, because of nagging doubt, bought a KLR as well so I'd be able to make my own comparison. After riding the KLR once, I knew it was the one to take. I like the F650, but the KLR has lighter steering, more low-down torque, at least as good reputation for reliability, more after-market accessories, more comfortable riding position, etc, etc. My point is, although BMWs have an excellent reputation and great network of happy owners, don't be afraid to take a different brand. It can be just as good (or better) and save you a lot of dollars. If you get the opportunity, ride them both! It's *so* hard to make a decision with all the contradictory opinions, so you're bum on the seat is the best guide. If you do decide on the F650, then I know of a red one in great condition for sale in New Jersey ;-)

James Courtier.
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Old 30 Aug 2002
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James

Don't forget to post your F650 details and price, if it's really for sale in New Zealand, into the Travel Bikes for Sale/Wanted forum. I'm sure there are a few folks hankering after a NZ trip that don't want to ship their bikes all the way over and back!

Good luck with your South America trip, and keep in touch.

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