Solo To Latin America

[mhelmuth]

I'm working on setting up a RTW trip starting with Latin America. I have a very tight budget and I'm still debating between a bicycle or motorcycle. However if I opt for a motorcycle, I'm debating which to take.

Right now the two bikes I'm considering are a KLR650 and a DRZ400. Since I'm traveling solo, being able to pull it out of the mud/sand/swap/etc alone is a consideration. Also the desire to ride to high altitudes as well as comfort are things I'm thinking about. I'm about 6'1, so a fairly tall guy.

At this point I'm leaning toward the 400.

Thoughts?

Mike

[TravellingStrom]

If you are doing altitude, get fuel injection and get a large tank

[colebatch]

Tight budget? Out of those two I would go the DRZ. Lighter (about 30 kgs I think). Better suspension. Both have cheap after market parts.

[Dodger]

Also consider a DR650.

The KLR is ready to go ,with a big tank and a fairly comfy seat .

The DRZ will need a bigger tank and a better seat .
THe DR650 will also need a bigger tank and a decent seat .

I,ve been very impressed with my son's DRZ [and he has done a few long trips on it ].It's a good reliable bike ,more suited to the younger guy who wants to do rougher terrain.

Try them all out before you decide .
KLR will probably be cheaper ,but be careful you don't buy an old clunker .

[tmotten]

Definitely take the DR650. It's cheap and simple with heaps of cheap options for mods for it. If you're handy with a grinder and welder, you can save massive $$$$.

Seat, tank and springs and you're away. Make your own rack, screen and whatever.

I've got a DRZ and I wouldn't take it long distance like that. I'm crossing the Simpson Desert this year and I'm dreading the 2000km on it before I get to the good bits. Wish I could take my 650 instead.

[mhelmuth]

Well, my original plan was to take a KLR. I've just gotten a little concerned about dealing with it on really bad roads.

On the other hand being rattled to death on the drz is somewhat less than appealing as well.

I'm now leaning back toward something in the 650 range. The KLR is also appealing because it's been changed so little over the years. Seems like parts would be quite easy to come by.

[tmotten]

Rattling on a DR? It's meant to be a really smooth motor.

Are you talking about the old KLR or the new one?

[mhelmuth]

I meant a DRZ seems like it would really rattle me when I get on a major highway, some of which is inevitable.

Due to the fact that I'm selling my possessions to do this at all, I would have to get an KLR as cheaply as I can. Hence, probably old.

Would anyone like to trade DR or KLR for a 1990 Suzuki VX800?

Mike