Bike Hunting

[KevenMember]

Hi Guys
Still trying to decide on what bike to buy. Im a Honda lover and wanted a few ideas about a new CRF 450 or a second hand XR650.I need something that doesnt need a lot of tinkering with as I am limited in the tinkering department thats why I like to buy new and not other peoples problems. Looking for a few comments.

Thanks KD

[Adrian LeeMember]

Kevdog have you tried riding some friends bikes to see what you like or what suits you ?

[Aaron WildeMember]

I think there is some middle ground between the CRF and XR650 and its a DRZ 400 banana sandwich. If you are planning on doing ONLY trail riding with your mates, go the CRF. But if you intend on using for any other reason,like Adventure rides then the XR would slot into it nicely. The XR 650 is a pretty tough bike and the previous owner would have wanted to have neglected it for there to be too many dramas with it. If you are looking at a new bike then you would have enough folding stuff to get a pristine pre-loved 650 if you are very keen on red bikes.

[Adam RodgersMember]

Kevdog I would agree with Aaron on the DRZ and you know why and you’ll never keep up with Sam no matter what you buy 😆

Decisions decisions what to do :huh:

Adam.

[Brad RaffinMember]

If you are limited in the tinkering department then the XR650 would be the bike to own. Yes I may be one sided but it is very much bullet proof. The engine is as strong as hell and you can use it as a trail bike also. It may be harder work than a lighter CRf450X but if it is set up well then you cant go wrong. The secret to the XR is to keep the air filter clean and only use genuine honda filters, use Maxima FFT air filter oil and change it after every ride regardless. Keep an eye on the valves and just keep it well serviced. My first 650 did some of the hard kms on teh finke track over 5 years and never missed a beat. You would need to change the top end more often on the CRF also. If you happen to chose the 650 then let me know, I would be happy to guide you in getting it set up.

[KevenMember]

Hi adam
Maybe a few years ago keeping up with sam might be something id like to do but not now to old.Everytime you read something about a bike or talk to someone you just get more confused.Yeah the dr is an option im thinking about as you know all about them and will give me someone to call if help needed .Rode my mates KTM 530 very keen to buy a bike now just need to make a decision

KD

[drewMember]

sure is a tough one KD :S wouldn’t like to be in your shoes.

we all have our own preferences .

if you were seriously considering a BRP650r but wanted new i’d suggest a KTM 690 (simply due to the engine design, 5000km oil changes and 10000km services).

but then there is the Husky 610, KLX 650 ( do Kwaka still do the KLX 650? )

however i read a lot of favourable comments about how the DRZ’s are a good all rounder. they are not perfect for/in every condition but do everything well enough.

in fact my bro is looking at getting a 400 4T some time down the track, he likes the XR400 but i suggested looking at the DRZ as most describe them as an XR400 with an elec leg. and they are still producing them so parts will not become an issue later on.

sorry to muddy the waters further, that’s my thrupence worth :side:

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