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Two-up on KLR 650? Two-up on KLR 650?
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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.
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  #1  
Old 19 Oct 2012
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Two-up on KLR 650?
Hi all,

I'm a newcomer to adventure motorcycling but have been dreaming about it for years. I'm getting ready to purchase a bike for a 6 month trip from the US to Tierra Del Fuego, and part of the time, my wife will be on the back with me. I'd really like to spare the major expense of buying a BMW GS 1200 and would prefer something whose parts are cheaper and which is easier to fix. I understand though that this is a great bike (perhaps the only one?) for traveling 2-up.

I've always loved the KLR (though never actually owned one) and am wondering if any of you have experience riding for an extended period 2-up. I have a feeling I already know the answer to my question, which is that riding 2-up on the KLR is a no go, especially if I plan on having panniers, gear and all the rest.

Let me know your thoughts and feel free to suggest an appropriate bike for 2-up riding that won't break the bank.

Many thanks for your advice and suggestions.

Nale19
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  #2  
Old 19 Oct 2012
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A Suzuki DL650 V-Strom is a good option. Not as cheap as a KLR and more street oriented but good for 2up, good fuel mileage and very reliable.
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  #3  
Old 19 Oct 2012
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V-Strom
Do you speak from experience? Have you done long-hauls on it 2-up? What can you tell me about it?
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Old 19 Oct 2012
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I have a V-Strom 1000 with 51,000 miles on it. The 650 will have a little less power for 2up riding but is far more economical. My nephew has a 650 which has about 40,000 miles. He has used a far bit 2 up. I've read several ride reports of travels riding 2up on them without problems. If you want something economical it is a good option. If you can afford the extra running cost and purchase price then the 1000 could be for you. They are physically the same size so equally as comfortable 2up. The 650 is smoother.
I think I would still go with the 1000 over the 650 because sometimes I like to ride quickly.
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Old 19 Oct 2012
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I'm biased, because I own two DL650's (2007&2012).. but can't deny that my experiences on 2-up travel with this bike have been pretty good. My longest trip 2-up was Europe to Australia, 34 thousand kms in 6 months. This was on the 2007 bike, it's now close to 80.000, and basically has not missed a beat, not on that trip, or later on.

Not much of an"off-road" bike, but I think 2-up will limit such riding anyway. Any roads it will do just fine.

I've ridden KLR650 a lot, too, great for riding solo, but I'd take a DL650 in a heartbeat, if I was going with a pillion. Transalp XL700 might be another option, if it's available in your country.
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Old 20 Oct 2012
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Thanks for the advice. I have spent all day researching the DL 650 and 1000 and it does look like a superior bike for 2-up riding. Seems to be more comfortable and sportier than the KLR. Most of my trip will be paved roads anyway so it makes sense to go with a bike that is stronger on pavement and maybe less so on dirt. I like the price tag too - way more affordable then the BMW R GS1200.

Now the question will be whether to go with a 650 or 1000. I like the gas mileage on the 650 but wonder whether there will be sufficient power with two people, panniers and all our gear.
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