I love the idea of making my own bike, but I think the trouble is where do you set the compromise slider?
If you're massively into offroad, then I guess 250 is the engine size limit. This will make for tiresome motorway work though. Maybe 400 would be a good compromise.
So you start with a DR400 perhaps, fit a big tank and bash plates etc, then strip the whole rear end down to the sub frame. Fabricate bespoke brackets to hold the luggage you want - making sure you go for something small and slim of course!
While you're at it you ought to build in some extra fuel capacity, an extra 10 litres should do. I guess using a couple of bladders is easier since making fuel tight alloy tanks is very hard.
Now have the seat sawn in half and remade to your comfort requirements - gel inserts and sheepskin lined perhaps!
Make up a bracket to hold a small top box which can sit much closer to the rider - maybe even a dual position so it can be a backrest on the road, and moved aft for off road.
Saw off everything that isn't needed - pillion footpegs etc.
Brace anything which is renowned for being weak.
Make some kevlar covers for the engine cases.
Fit a fully enclosed chain guard.
Any other ideas?
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