Pm
 

James,

PM'd you.

Yet another vote for the XT600. Not the most comfortable bike in the world but I believe is one of the most reliable. I have spent a total of about US$550.00 out fitting my bike for touring. I just have a few more things to buy yet but it is ready to go.

XT600 or TT600RE
 

Another vote for the XT600E

or

TT600RE

Regards
Shaun

If you are very new to motorcycling, then why not try a smaller cc bike to start off on?
They are cheap to buy and run. Most fuel economic. They are many to choose from for example the honda 125 e storm - see old man on a bike. Or for a bit of light offroad perhaps a dual purpose on/off road.
Hope that you do get a bike soon and start your travels.:thumbup1:

If your going to Iran make sure you go through esfehan (isfahan). It doesnt matter if you dont see anything else in the country, make sure you see that town. If your planning on going there and would be more comfortable having someone show you around let me know and im sure I could get some friends to meet you in isfahan.
No bike advice. Im looking for the same thing. Something cheap and tough.