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Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
Photo by Marc Gibaud, Clouds on Tres Cerros and Mount Fitzroy, Argentinian Patagonia

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Photo by Marc Gibaud,
Clouds on Tres Cerros and
Mount Fitzroy, Argentinian Patagonia



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  #1  
Old 22 Feb 2018
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We used a Honda Transalp to travel two up trough Europa: Motorcycle Balkan Tour - Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania & Greece
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Old 22 Feb 2018
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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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Old 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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Old 22 Feb 2018
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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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Old 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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  #6  
Old 23 Feb 2018
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tremens View Post
verys 650 is too short for 2up IMHO.
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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