(971/365)
I finally ended my search for a new toy. A few months back I'd all but settled on a DR650 (2007ish to be exact). Compared to the DL1000, it is a "light and nimble" bike. Even up until last week, I was set on the DR. Then I started looking at the DR-Z 400 which got me to ask the question "what else is there?".
I didn't think I'd like a 250, even though that is my suggestion to all new riders, go with the smallest displacement while you are learning. I didn't think I'd like it until I tried one that is. I tried one last night, a 2009 KLX that looked so beat up that it could have passed for a '96.
This is an '06 KLX250S with 3,800 miles on the Odi. However, you'd swear it just came off the showroom floor. I tried my best to locate bikes in my search that were well maintained and garaged. I did a good job, save for the '09 I saw yesterday.
I was pretty torn between an '05 DR-Z with only 1,600 miles on it and in showroom condition and this KLX. Better judgement won out. I've never owned a dirtbike, so I am playing it safe.
It is a true Dual Sport, unlike my primary ride which is a Dual Sport in marketing classification only. This is the kind of bike that you can commute on (at least I can) and shoot down a few power lines on the way to work (or back home from work).
The V-Strom is going nowhere, selling or trading is not an option at this time. I will continue to ride it as my primary (it is a hell of a lot more comfier) but will take out my new 'mistress' from time to time to indulge in some other pleasures ;-)