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22 Feb 2018
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22 Feb 2018
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Location: Back into the hamster wheel again, in Oslo - Norway. Did a 5 year RTW trip/250 k kms, 2014-2019
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Of the two bikes you have mentioned the V-Strom would definetively get my vote. More powerful than the KLR, better comfort two-up, better fuel economy as its EFI versus the carburated KLR. Very solid and reliable bike overall. The KLRs have the «doohickey» upgrades needed.
Have a look at Kawa Versys 650, Honda Transalp 600, 650 and 700. Maybe BMW 650/700 GS (the two cylindred model) or the 800. There are others as well...
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22 Feb 2018
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When travelling alone I prefer my trusty old Beemer with 50 hp (37 kw). It has a drive shaft and is easy to service. But two up with luggage is a different story. Although - remember Grant & Susan, travelling for decades on their R 80 G/S 
IMHO the small V-Strom would do the job. It's known to be reliable, has smooth engine characteristics and is easy on fuel. Bigger bikes are, of course, more comfy, but far too heavy....
The KLR is a good bike, but too heavy and definitely underpowered for two up with luggage.
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22 Feb 2018
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Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: Gatineau, QC, Canada
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I had a V-Strom 650 for a 2-months ride in New-Zealand lately and I really enjoyed this bike (despite I am normally riding a Beemer). It was 8 years old with 100,000km but had no problem with it except a burnt stator. I was solo rider but bought it from a couple who traveled on this bike before I bought it. I would definitely buy one again.
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23 Feb 2018
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Suzuki v-strom definitely can take it, very comfortable bike.
KLR lacks of power, verys 650 is too short for 2up IMHO.
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23 Feb 2018
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tremens
verys 650 is too short for 2up IMHO.
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I've noticed that the wheelbase of the DL650 appears to be longer than that of the 650 Versys. Not that I have checked the figures.
The Vstrom seems to have a longer seat squab (does anyone else still use that word now?) for the pillion passenger.
My views of the 650 Versys are in this thread from a few years ago:-
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...s-thread-65709
It is not the only 'budget" bike that is fitted with budget suspension.
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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...
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What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"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
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Lots more comments here!

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Every chapter a day
Every day a journey
Refreshingly honest and compelling tales: the hights and lows of a life on the road. Solo, unsupported, budget journeys of discovery.
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New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
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