The BMW 450 X Challenge seems interesting too. Probably on the same level as the KTM 450 EXC. But street legal.
50hp and 110kg (the 650 weights around 150kg)

Review
2008 BMW G 450 X | motorcycle review @ Top Speed

Sounds like no problem with strength and riding experience. I think you could ride ANY bike you like. Sounds like you like a lot of power ... this means KTM for you.

I would stretch your budget and buy the KTM 500 EXC. With Giant Loop would be perfect for your short trips in N. Africa. But for RTW, the DR650 or Honda would be better.

Once you have done a few LONG Africa trips, you may come to understand why a well set up 250 is a good choice. For now, go with the bigger bike and more power. Have fun, don't crash far from help!

The XR650R is great if you can find a good one and don't mind KICK START. I've ridden XR650R lots, many friends owned them. Most sold them and bought KTM 500 or new Husqvarna.


My friend Peter riding his well set up XR650R in Nevada, this about 8 years ago. GREAT BIKE. Many used ones here for sale cheap. But for travel, I still prefer my well modified DR650SE.

Remember, the DR650 is still being made, so you may find a New-ish one if you look around EU or UK. Some are being imported from USA, some ride them up from Africa and sell in EU. Once well set up they are quite capable off road.
(suspension, seat, open air box, re-jet)

But for your Africa trips, KTM 500 is way to go if you can afford one. THE BEST
dirt bike. Lower budget I'd take a nice XT600 or a well sorted KTM 640 with a FRESH engine and top end.