So, my wish list is a combo of new and old tech...in a new bike. Specifically, I want an air cooled jug with long maintenance intervals, modern suspension and modern frame in a lightweight package. Think modern dr350/xr400.
I know, I know, ktm, husky, or even honda crf450l. But here is the deal, I want it under 10k, ideally under 7k. The crf450l, ktm's and husky, though reliable, have short maintenance intervals. Want something with less compression, not so damn high strung, that can run all day and all season with nothing but oil changes. It is either a gutless overweight Japanese bike with reasonable price or high priced, high strung race bike with plates. Where is the in between? Why has Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki been lagging? WR250r is almost there...WR450r would be ideal...de-tuned for longer service intervals with lights. KX400 street legal....but still dealing with radiators/liquid cooling. The only bikes coming out now with air cooled is the brand spanking new klx230 (though the suspension sucks but the price point is under 5k) and the older crf230. A klx 300 street legal would be nice. And don't get me started on 17" rears, why oh why can't they all just be 18"?
Anyways, would love to hear your thoughts on this.
As a side thought, Beta has a trail/dual sport bike that still uses the suzuki dr350 engine (fuel injected though). Problem is, you can't get it in the USA but you can get it in the UK. It is called the Alp.
For me the compromise down from a 1090 would be the 700 Yamaha ... reviews are comparing them to the discontinued KLR in its simplicity yet a lot better :) However, I really, really do like the upgrades these modern bikes provide
That 700 Tenere is a sweet bike and one that checks off a lot of marks. Modern yet not overly computerized, still simplistic.
I agree 100% on the lower maintenance bikes although I do the air cleaner quite more often than the oil changes on any bike. Riding the high dollar stallions is fun but at the end of the day I can have pretty much have the same amount of fun on any $3-5k bike & when that simpler bikes quits running I know I can fix it. And yea same thing on the 17"wheel along with the 5 spd, why Suzuki why?
You know, going from the dr350 (air cooled, 6speed) to the drz400 (water cooled 5 speed) was dumb. Keep the tranny, heck keep the engine on a modern frame. The dr650 is a great bike though, just needs a 6 speed.