
4 Nov 2011
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Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
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Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Canada
Posts: 738
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Zimi
Hi there,
back from my trip, I sold my R100GS and I am already thinking about a new adventure, most probably this time I will ship my bike to Mongolia and ride the road of Bones...I want a much lighter bike this time, and probably a single cylinder.
My mind says Suzuki DR 650 SE, because I only red positive thinks about this bike, it's very simple and easy to work on.
My heart says KTM Adventure 640, because it looks so good, but I know that servicing it is a pain in the ass compared to the DR650.
The problem in Switzerland is that it's pretty difficult to find a DR650 post 1996. They are plenty of old ones, 88-94, for 1000-2000$, but post 96 are pretty rare, and post 2000 not even imported. They are quite expensive, around 3500-4500$. For the same price I could find a DRZ400 as well.
For the same amount on money or less I can have a KTM Adventure 640, or even A KTM Adventure 950, we find now quite easily a 950 with around 50'000km for less than 5000$.
For 2000$ I could have a Adventure 620 with less than 30'000km...
Well, that's the thing... If I buy a Suzuki, then I need to buy a bigger tank s well, better rear shock absorber.. so it will not be cheap. On the KTM Adventure, there is nothing to upgrade.
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If you go the direction of a basic Japanese single (eg. KLR, DR, XT) make sure you go with a model that is common for your region. For example the KLR here in North America is an A model, which is different from the C model which I believe was the type that was sporadically imported into parts of Europe. I rode a C model from Vlad to Mongolia, it's got a small tank and a brutally weak rear subframe so I wouldn't necessarily recommend it. The A model is much better suited, but I dont think you'll find many of those over in your area.
You mention the DR isn't that common in your area, unless you are a committed Suzuki fan, there's no need to go chasing any of these specific bike makes and models. Find what's common in your area, look at a few of the ones available and pick one that meets your needs. If you have easy access to XTs, go in that direction.
In regards to KTM, for some reason there aren't many KTM riders on this board but you will run into many, many KTMs long distance touring. They all seem pretty happy with their bikes and have figured out a way around the well known weaknesses of some models and years, so I'd keep looking at those as a very viable option.
Might exceed your budget, but prices are a lot better now and the BMW XChallenge certainly got rave reviews on the route you are thinking of riding from Colebatch.
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Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
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What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
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"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
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Lots more comments here!

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