XR400 Rear subframe: strengthening?
 

After my South America 1150GS got written off at 30mph in West London, I have since bought a XR400. Although not the same style, it is better suited to my new home of Tallinn, Estonia, given the road surfaces and ferocious enforcement of speed limits. However, I still want to retain the independence of the GS:

I have fitted a 22l acerbis tank, and pillion footpegs are welded on, so two up travel is an option.

Our main overland bike for future trips to Asia/Africa will be a Ural Sportman Deluxe combo, but for shorter journeys where the dog, Pretzl, can stay at home, the XR will be my choice.

So, hence my question: do I need to strengthen the rear subframe if I am to carry a pillion and enough kit to camp for 3-4 nights in the sticks?

If I do, how do I do it??

Thanks.

I don't have any answers for you as such, but there are some discussions of the XR400 in the links at the bottom of the page of your post; one of them is:-

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...subframe-24753

Got to say that I have not seen a XR400 used with a pillion - not a good idea I would say for the all-up weight limit of the XR400 mentioned in the link above.
Take two light weight bikes is a much better option?!!

Thanks for the pointers, Dave. I will investigate. Truth is though, the XR would only be for shorter Two-up trips so less luggage needed.

I also had pillion foot pegs welded on mine and it was fine for short rides - mainly rescuing KTM riders.

I'd concur that it defeats the point of having a relatively nimble light bike if you're going to squeeze two adults onto it for touring but depending on the pillion's weight it should be OK for shorter stuff, especially if you strengthen it.
Stephan