I don't know if a fuel injected bike can be bump started. Interesting quesiton. Here's hoping for a reply from someone more knowledagble in such matters.

As for the touring question: I think there was a thread about this at a previous date. The problem seems to be that the model is still fairly new and so, not many have had the chance to test it thoroughly. But if you believe the Yamaha sales pitch "the authentic go anywhere, do anything, motorcycle", they seem to believe that the XT660R will take over where the XT600 left off. Only time will tell if this will be the case.

I am in the preperation stages of my trans africa trip starting in November. To me, it is a choice between the BMW F650GS and the Yamaha XT660R. The BMW costs about 33% more than the Yamaha (at least in Denmark where I live). Personally, I am not convinced that the extra cost reflects it's performance and durability over the Yamaha's. If Yamaha can give you a 5 year warranty (which they do), it does give you a hint of how durable they believe it is. I am unaware if BMW gives the same warranty. Having said all that, I am not discounting the F650GS option just yet. It does seem to do the job, and several touring agencies swear by them. And even the staunchest opponent to BMW have to admit that they look darn good . I digress...back to the Yamaha...

My main worry (goes for both the Yam and the BMW) is the fuel injection. Since I personally will be traveling in areas where petrol quality will be questionable, hyper modern bikes fuel system is somewhat of a worry to me. I don't know if this is an issue to you. Just tossing a ball here.

My conclusion (conclusion=guessing): Seeing as the XT660R comes from a company who has had so much success with the XT600 can't have gone all wrong. Dare I guess that much of the "this works" technology from the XT600 has gone into the XT660R? And then added a few improvements to an allready widely accepted success. Also, complemening the engine with an extra 60 ccm perhaps gives it that extra "umph" that is needed to carry yourself/paniers/extra fuel/tent and packs for a long trip.

Eventhough the F650GS is not entirely out of the picture yet, Yamaha does seem to be my personal favorite at the moment. So if you want to trust my guesswork/conjecture/selfinvented logic, I'd say go for it.

Or, you can wait untill May 2008 where I should be returning from my Africa trip and I'll be able to give my oppinion more based on facts and experience .