Hello all,

So first let me explain my situation shortly: me and my girlfriend (both 23 years old) are going to travel with the motorcycle through South America from February to August. We will start in Buenos Aires and end in Bogota. We both just got our motorcycle license and thus are not experienced drivers (although we have a fair share of auto driving experience in foreign countries).

We currently have two motorbikes in mind: the Suzuki V-Strom dl1000 and the Kawasaki KLR650. Could you give your opinion about which motorbike is more suited for 2-up riding in South America, considering that we might also experience roads that aren't that smooth or well maintained? (dirt, gravel and that kind of things?)

A bit more information about the characteristics of the two specific bikes we are thinking about of buying: the V-Strom (2007) is optimalized for 2-up riding with a big sprocket and heavy duty suspension (which is very nice for us as nonexperienced drivers) and should be more comfortable for two. It has about 80.000 kms on it but is well maintained. In total it will cost is 4000-4500 dollars. The KLR650 (2008) in contrast has about 100.000 kms, but also seems wel maintained. The top-end has been rebuilt some time ago, although we do not really know how well this has been done. And, a big plus, we hear it is better in off road situations. This one is about 3000-3500 dollars. However, I have no experience in driving in South America and do not know how many times we will drive off road.

So, it is a hard choice for us. Please share your thoughts and experiences with us, as you will surely help us! We try to collect as much as information as possible, but we are both new to motorcycles.

Kind regards,
Tobias de Graaf