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Photo by Lois Pryce, schoolkids in Algeria

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and schoolkids in Algeria



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Old 15 May 2021
Wheelie's Avatar
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Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Oslo, Norway
Posts: 658
[QUOTE
Brands are meaningless. You pick a bike you like then learn how it fails and how to fix it.

Andy[/QUOTE]
I agree in, somewhat. The f650gs Dakar's weak point is the water pump (50k KMS I had no issues with the bike). The part packs small, is relatively inexpensive, and is a manageable road side repair. On the other hand, some bikes have a less than stellar reputation, with high probability of impossible repairs and things that can go wrong that could get you killed. If you got instance bought one of the first royal Enfield Himalayans, don't get surprised if your entire front end breaks off. Choosing a bike with a decent to great reputation for reliability is good advice. Telling a noob who want to go RTW, without having nothing else to go by, to buy whatever bike he likes - is potentially terrible advice

Quote:
Originally Posted by gatogato View Post
The Yamaha WR250R might be your best bet. It has 6 gears and is a very capable 250 cc. This bike has sold extremely well. It has a tall seat height like the KLR650 and DRZ400.
It is a great bike. It is a bit pricey to start, and most would like to make some costly upgrades on dual sports that they might not feel the need to do on a factory made adventure bike. One of the more popular upgrades that are more common for dual sports, and less common for adventure bikes with +300 km range, is swapping out the tank for one with a bigger volume. Things like strengthening the sub frame, adding a wind screen, upgrading the seat adding electrical outlet or hand protectors, are all things that also come to mind on many dual sports - where the adventure bike alternative may suffice in those departments. It all adds up.

In terms of reliability, parts accessibility, access to support en route, etc. Honda is the biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the world, with Yamaha coming in at second place. Over all, both brands have a great reputation for reliability. BMW on the other hand, who coined the adventure bike, is known for advanced tech, creature comforts and performance - and decent reliability. KTM is known for "Ready To Race" with the greatest performance. KTM and BMW usually tops the price lists.

If I was to give blind advice, I'd say Yamaha or Honda.
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