you're right, soon my crf is going out and I'm looking for 450exc ktm or husky.
Regarding reliability looks like KTM has caught up with others now although for long journeys I'd feel still more comfortable on my xt660z.

The OP does not say his/her location. Some bikes are not easy to find in Europe vs what is available in OZ, US etc… I will still throw my two cents on this.
We downgraded from 2 BMW 650GS (the original single) around South America, in 2007/2008 (long list of problems) for much smaller bikes.

We spent 3 weeks in Vietnam (in 2010 or 2009) on two rented YBR125s.That was an eye opener moment! They were so light and easy to ride on really hard technical trails.

For our UK to Mongolia trip (and back) in 2014, we rode 12,000 miles on two Hondas XR125. They were too slow and lacked in power. But they managed!

Last summer we rode again across Russia and Central Asia, on a TTR250 (husband) and an XT250 (me). The TTR needed an Acerbis tank (which causes problems and means more expenses). I did no modifications at all on my XT. It has about 10l fuel tank and I can do a minimum of 300kms. I also carried a 5l fuel bladder (that I never used or needed!).

We had to fiddle with the TRR as it is carburetted, for high altitude, in Kyrgyzstan. I did nothing to mine as it was FI.

OF all the bikes I had on many trips (bought, rented etc…) I think for me the XT is the ultimate bike. It is super light (lighter than the TTR – don’t trust the brochures!) and very easy and forgiving on trails/mud/sand. Also it requires minimal preparation. It is also incredibly tough. As my husband keeps saying, bikes have a very hard life in my hands! I only replaced the original handlebars (the original bends immediately! Oops! ) for Renthal. I had few crashes, (including running over a cow in Kyrgyzstan!) the bike had nothing. Not a scratch. The same cannot be said of me L

There is of course a compromise to make: they are a pain in highways. So we usually take the back roads and go off the beaten track. But small roads and trails are much more pleasant, when exploring a country!

Next we plan to go to the US, ride the TAT and mainly tracks and small roads, for few months (subject to visas). Originally we wanted to buy two XT250 over there but we may instead ship our TTR and XT instead. So even in the US we will still ride our 250s as it gives us so much more options to ride any road and track.
So yes, small bikes for long trips ... it can be done!

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Maria

www.franglais-riders.com

°my 2 cents°

With around 40 years of riding experience I'd say I'm a fan of my CRF250L (2013MDL) it's the perfect stablemate to my 03 BMW R1150GS, both bikes are compromises to a degree but function very well. For me the both fill a niche, I'm not a MX Rider nor will ever be... the CRF however it reminds me of my 1977 Honda XL 250 as a fun reliable capable bike putting miles of smiles on my face! It's been a great learner bike for my son and well.

I find myself taking the little CRF more often for running errands, and it's just a great for a little too wheeled therapy as well. Don't get me wrong I love my R1150GS and I love it equally; they are however, just for slightly different. For a first bike and learner it great, for a fun just get on and rip around urban commuter/explorer/trailie bike it's awesome. I've ridden plenty of 650 thumpers: Kawasaki KLR, Suzuki DR650 SE, BMW F650GS (single) and they were a compromise as well... I prefer the CRF.

Do I wish the CRF had more power like that of a MX bike - yes.
Am I happy maintenance is in the thousands of KM's vs. hours - absolutely! It's just a fun, easy bike to ride and like, the initial cost is affordable, build quality and reliability are typical Honda, accessories are plentiful. And as for me, well I'm happy with mine and for now it's a keeper!


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