DR650 vs. 2008 KLR650 for beginner - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

budlyte · 07-12-2008, 10:55 AM

Howdy. I'm a newer forum member looking at getting my first cycle. A few specifics about me: I'm 39 years old, 5' 11", 31" inseam, and weigh 175. I'm looking to get back into riding after a 15+ year absence, so I consider myself a beginner after all this time away. I completed the MSF course a few weeks ago, so all I need now is something to ride.

I'm considering a DS bike and I plan to primarily ride around town and to work (about 3 miles one way on the highway). Basically 90/10 street/dirt

I sat on a V-Strom and the first thing I noticed is my calves hit the foot pegs when I placed my feet on the ground. It's a tall bike, so placing my feet farther out didn't allow me to flat-foot the bike, which is something I want to be able to do.

I sat on both a 2008 DR650 and 2008 KLR650, but I haven't been able to ride either of them yet.

Here are my initial impressions:

DR650 - Of the 2, it's probably the one I want to get. It has an outdated look, but I kinda like it. It's also about 50 pounds lighter, but I need to ride it first to be sure I'll like it . Problem is my local dealer doesn't allow test rides, but I'll see if I can change his mind.

KLR650 - It's basically the same price as the DR650 and has a much better seat, mini fairing, and rear rack as standard equipment. It's obviously a much better bang for my buck compared to the DR650, but it seemed much more top-heavy than the DR (6.1 gallon tank and an extra 50 lbs). I don't really need a 6.1 gallon tank, and the top-heavy-tippy feeling is not something I need as a new rider trying to build my skills and confidence. The dealer will let me ride it if I want to once it's prepped, so maybe my concerns about the tippy feeling will go away once I take it for a spin.

Have any of you ridden a DR and KLR (2008 model), and of the 2, which do you recommend for a beginner and why?