Hey everyone,

I'm a newbie to bikes, and I'm planning my first bike trip across the US (SF -> LA -> Miami -> NY -> SF).

This bike (along with the DR650) seems to be a highly esteemed travel bike in these forums. I'm curious to know if you guys recommend I get this dual-sport bike to cross the US, or would you suggest I look more into touring/cruiser bikes? I'm new to riding and I would be using this bike to travel in cities and on highways. My goal is not to make the trip to quickly. I plan to work for a few months in a few cities along the way, so I won't have to use up all my emergency funds. Also, I plan on crossing the Rocky Mountains on my way back to SF from NY.

I've never done something like this before, so I'm really exited to learn as much as I can before I head off.

Any advice appreciated. Thank You

I would suggest a street bike if you are staying on pavement. A simple standard Japanese bike like a ninja 650 is super reliable but can run effortlesly on the open road. A good Nighthawk 750 is never going to let you down either. They will be cheaper than a KLR even though they cost more when new.

Decide on what type of riding you want to do (pavement or side roads possibly gravel) then see what fits. The KLR is a great "off the beaten track" bike. I currently have one and am looking for an additional ride that will get me down the highway when I need to and with the ability to ride the back roads and possibly two up. I am looking at V-strom, tenere, or 990 for this. Have fun out there!

It's also worth considering the riding position required by each bike. To some extent you can modify this by trading out pegs, bars, seat and suspension, but there are significant differences between bikes no matter what you do.

I've got a KLR and a 650 V-Strom. Both are designed for an upright, neutral posture--that's good for my aching back. The KLR is far more comfortable for my decrepit knees, even after I lowered the V-Strom pegs and raised the seat. Both were improved by handlebar risers and similar modifications. The KLR the seat is higher, therefore might not be suited for height-disadvantaged folks, especially new riders. Et cetera.

I've spent bits of time on other bikes, and find I don't like my spine hunched forward or a lot of pressure on my wrists. Other people don't mind this at all (and there's the theory, elegantly expressed by a friend, that if you routinely go faster than 100 mph on a sport bike the wind pressure relieves strain on the wrists by lifting your torso....).

All of the above is probably secondary to deciding where you want to ride. The V-Strom is a great option on pavement when you want an option to explore dirt and gravel from time to time. However, it's not exactly fun to do so. The KLR is nowhere near as comfy on the highway--and even less so 2-up--but it's a much better ride on dirt, gravel, and even substandard pavement. The same will be true of similar bikes.

FWIW, my first bike was a KLR, which I retired after 4 or 5 years and almost 100,000 miles. It's a good, cheap, time-tested bike once you take care of a few known issues.

Hope that's helpful.

Mark

If you want to make good time, then IMO, a dual sport is not your best choice. I own a DR650 and have owned two KLR's previous. Love them all. But I'd not pick either as a cross the USA and back ride.

The V-Strom has been mentioned. Great bike! Older, high mile DL1000's are inexpensive. Low maintenance, stone reliable bike, smooth at 80 mph all day, comfy seat.

But as VicMitch mentioned, any number of mid range or larger, older Japanese In line fours can be had cheap ... super cheap: Honda Night Hawk, Suzuki Bandit 1200, Older Kawi Concours ... and SO MANY MORE I can't remember now there are so many you could use.

I would not buy anything from 1980's or older, unless spotless and impeccable. Early to mid 90's good up to 2000 for best prices/bikes. Vstrom did not start until 2002 however.

I'm guessing for $2000 to $3000 you can find a serviceable but older machine with high miles. But pay a bit more for a GOOD CLEAN, well serviced example that needs nothing.
Strap on some throw-over bags and go. Be sure to start with NEW Tires, new battery ... possibly new Chain/Sprockets. Fresh oil and clean filters too.
Good luck!