Newbie with his sights set high...

[Surge]

Hiya. For those of you who don't read the "Start your Engines" thread, I'm Nick. I live in deep south Texas(Get me outta' here!) and I'm starting the MSF course in September. I'm getting my first bike in December, so I have -plenty- of time to consider, research, and debate on what it should be. But I have one thing that is always on my mind:

I want to be able to tour.

Yet, I don't want a Hondabago(Goldwing) 'cause it's too heavy. And I imagine very, very comfortable. (vision of himself falling asleep and driving off a cliff). I need something light, maneuverable, quick, and comfy(but not too comfy, as explained above). Help me out?

I was thinking a Kawasaki KLR650 or some other dual purpose/adventure bike. Thoughts? Comments? Hate mail? Bribes?

[ZooTech]

Suzuki V-Strom 650


Kawasaki Concours

[Surge]

I also forgot to mention that I'm on a budget(<$6,000) and need something under, say, 600lbs. The V-strom looks nice, though.

[ZooTech]

You should be able to pick up a good used Concours for <$6,000. If you're set on buying new, you'd be hard-pressed to find anything I'd consider a "touring" bike for that price.

[Surge]

You should be able to pick up a good used Concours for <$6,000. If you're set on buying new, you'd be hard-pressed to find anything I'd consider a "touring" bike for that price.

Grandma wants me on a new bike because of warranties. Yeah... Any help with convincing her otherwise would be greatly appreciated.

[ZooTech]

I see a Ninja 500R and some bags from eBay in your future.

[Surge]

I see a Ninja 500R and some bags from eBay in your future.

I'm physically unable to ride sports bikes. Rib injury that was never treated keeps me from leaning forward too far. Plus, I'm not fond of sports bikes to begin with.

Anyone have any thoughts on the KLR650? Is it capable of taking a, say, 9 hour trip from Harlingen to Dallas?

[Scoutmedic]

I'd go with the 650 V-strom. You can probably pick one up for under $6,000. I sat on one the other day. I'm 5'7" with a 28" in seam. I'd need the shorter seat. I had to balance on my toes with the regular seat. It's got a huge fuel tank for touring and supposedly gets decent mpg. I think the msrp on the strom is $6,200'ish but, I've seen them advertised in the $5,200 range in cycle traders.

[nightingale]

if you are planning on riding for 9 hrs, the v-strom will be much better than a KLR.

[Surge]

1. Driving back and forth to school.
2. Driving to Dallas every few months or so.
3. Driving around town for fun.

I don't live in the best of areas... Are you sure something flashy would be a reasonable choice?