Agree with many of your points mollydog. Just to clarify, once set up with jetting and a pipe, a TTR will use virtually the same fuel as a DR. So that's not a saving. The TTR only weighs 120kg wet so that's a plus.

Another plus is that you don't have to upgrade a TTR nearly as much as a DR to do the same thing. The TTR already has better suspension, a great seat and a pumper carb. The carb is a godsend in tight terrain - even properly set up the carb on a DR is a real bitch at anything you want to tackle in first gear. It surges and is no where near as responsive as a pumper. Hence why many upgrade to a pumper on a DR.

MY DR set up to tackle adventure touring was over $8,000 aud. My Ttr is about half that set up to the same level - that includes bike purchase and all of the necessary farkles.

If you plan on lots of interstate I totally agree that a bigger bike is better. Although I'd argue you only need interstate capability in first world countries when you're in a rush. Anywhere is Asia or Africa or anywhere you don't need to do 130kph everywhere a 250 will be plenty big enough. Mine will sit on 120kph on the flat all day. As you rightly said though Mossproof, elevation is a bit of a killer on a 250. The Ttr isn't that far behind on horsepower though and is only 2/3 the weight. That and the pumper carb on the TTR is better in elevation changes too than the DR.

I love both bikes. Each has their advantages. The aftermarket industry is more geared to the DR so is easier to set up. That said, great little businesses like totally ttrs make it easier with the little TTR.

Goodluck with the choice and keep us informed Danny

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TTR250 - a very underrated adventure bike