most reliable 600cc?

**sprat82** · #1 14 May 2002

I need your advice!
I'm planning to buy an used 600cc-enduro and have few money to spend for it. So I'll have to choose between Yamaha Ténéré, Suzi DR 650 (R?) and Honda XR/XL 600. Due to my lack of money the choice is limited to the models from the 80's or early 90's. As I can't afford an expensive bike, you may guess it, I'm unable to spend fortunes for maintenance and repairs. So, which bike do you recommend?

regards,
Johannes

**A.B.** · #2 14 May 2002

How will you use the bike?

If you’re going to travel on long trips carrying some stuff with you then go for the Tenere
If you’re going off-roading to have fun on the weekend, get the XR.
I don’t know much about the DR.

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A.B.
www.ShortWheelbase.com

**stormsearcher** · #3 19 Aug 2002

how bout the klr650?and tenere is good fer off road/bad roads excursions?how do both fare with 2 up?

**edseven** · #4 20 Aug 2002

This is a tricky one! Buying an old bike raises the odds for necessary repairs. Honda spares are notoriously overpriced BUT the bikes tend to be very reliable. Yamaha reduced their parts prices a while back, some items are almost cheap. The Transalp (XL600V/650V)is normally an excellent bike.If it sold many in Germany, perhaps you can get spares from your breakers ( salvage/wreckers ) to save money. Yamahas need consistent cleaning to fend off Mr Rust.
I'd go for the Honda, treat it carefully and properly, and it should reward you back!

**StuartH** · #5 21 Aug 2002

I don't know how typical this is but as the owner of an 87 XR600 Honda for the last ten years I'd vote it A1 for reliability.
Total non service parts have been a CDI unit, a set of steering head bearings and new caliper seals. The old CDI unit was repaired and now serves as a backup unit on trips.
For ten years and tens of thousands of miles I'd rate that pretty good

**Hombre** · #6 24 Sep 2002

Hey Sprat82,

another piece of information (to confuse the matter even more): the DR650 ('80-'84)had the longest wheelbase of its time, which makes for very good riding in the sand or on gravelroads. It also had a very high sitting position, which is something I've always considered (being 6ft2).
So, it's back to you, as to what bike to go for! Enjoy