Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Hey, I don't see a lot of them around here, but the ones I do see are more than capable on and off-road. BTW, where are you at? I'm in the Springs, but this weekend I'll be up in the Fort Collins/Greeley area if you're interested in looking at bikes...
Wrider

I actually also live in Colorado Springs. Do you own any dual purpose bikes? Which bike were you referring to that you mentioned were more than capable of off-road?

My dad would prefer to buy one new so that we could get a financing plan with it, and that way I can make my own payments. Granted I would prefer it used, but I'm leaning towards new for the stated reasons.

The 400 SM is also surprisingly expensive compared to other dual sports, Suzuki really likes those forks.

What do you mean about the forks? Are they higher quality, resulting in the increased price? Is the higher price worth it for the differences?

Well after going to the motorcycle showroom in my town, I decided that the SM version is not for me. Instead, I'm pretty sold on the regular DRZ400S. It has enough power to get me around easily, but isn't a beast of a machine that will be too much.

Thanks for all the information this site has provided.

You're welcome.

Go for a light weight ds bike if you ride a lot of off macadam. Try looking at some of the thumpers like Alpinera,MZ,KTM or BMW Funduro series(chain gang). If you don't like singles look for an old BMW R80GS (possibly the best duel sport ever see Jupiters travels) BMW Basic,Ducati/Cagevia Elephanta.
The larger ones (bmw most R100,R1100,Trimph Tiger,KTM Duke,and Buell) will wear you out trying to handle these off road)
The new BMW HP looks GREAT but what a cost $19K I drool over this bike every time I see it.
Also look at japanese bikes like Honda Transalp (no longer made) Africa Twin,Valereo (not in states but excellent bikes possible avail on other side of border, either one)KLR (not quite the best bike but possibly the best for the money esp if you buy used)
Most duel sport accessory companys (like touetech,jesse,Darr etc) only carry a lot of parts for BMW,KTM,KLR and Africa Twin
In springs check out BMW (21st Street, BMW and Ducks) Apex (Watchsatch Honda, Trimph and I think KTM)

slattmattery wrote: Not to mention, a 650 may be a little large for me like I said, I don't need all that power to get around where I want.

Just for reference, the KLR650 only has about 40hp max, but it will get you around quite handily. I've taken mine just about everywhere, including a trip to Mexico last fall. It's a very capable bike, easy to work on, relatively bulletproof engine and has a huge aftermarket support.