I'm after a big trailie to use as both a winter commuter and to trundle around on green lanes and maybe the odd rally or two and fancy either a Honda XR650L or a Yam TT600E. I've narrowed it down to these due due to there popularity, reliability and (most of all) the electric start! (due to a bad back I struggle with kick starts). I had considered a DR350 but I need a bit more oomph for longer journeys as I regulalry travel over 150 miles in pone hit. Anyone have any recommendations or advice?

I have a 01' xr650l with 4600 miles. I am an ex-dirt/enduro guy and love to go offroad whenever I can. This bike can handle most offroad conditions, short of tight single track (which I have tried and don't advise it). The power is adequate, and more is available via the aftermarket for a nominal fee. The suspension is very nice, 11 inches plush! Before I go any further, my other bike is a Kaw. GPZ 1100, which I absolutely adore. Love it, love it. Now let me say, when I go out to ride, less than 200 miles, I will take the XRL. Hands down, the thumper is more fun and I love the simplicity. Why less than 200 miles? My ass is squirming at 75 miles, unless I am hitting the dirt. The seat is the bike's weak point. Great for offroad but horrible for long distance road riding. Corbin makes a leather replacement of which I have heard big praises. Honda's engine is bullet proof, and well it's a Honda, reliable. It has been produced since early 90's and is basicaly a XR 600 with a NX 650 engine. I don't know what more to say, I love it, ride it through any weather, commute regularly to work on it and plan to do some serious long distance touring on it next year.
If you ride mainly on pavement (possible future mount for me) look at a KLR. But if air cooled is what your after and it has to be capable off road, two thumbs up for the XR650L!
Hope I helped...........

RobG

I'm interested to hear that you can still get a XR650L new. Could you let us know how much one weighs, and what is the seat height? Cheers.

Iain.

Manchester, United Kingdom.