Hello Everyone!

My girlfriend and I are planning a long South America trip next year and I've got an XT600 thats in very good condition. I've ridden two-up during short rides, but I'm wondering whether we could two-up on a long long trip, with all the weight of the luggage on top of our own weight. Our combined weight is about 300 lbs. I'm hoping we can do it because its our only available option, buying another bike is out of the question. Any help is really really appreciated! Thanks!

It can definately be done! But I think you should at least try a short trip for a few days and see how it works. Try to stay on back roads and bring the absolute minimum amount of stuff possible (for example: no tent, no stove, find places on the bike to stash tools). You and your partner should each ask yourselves this question: "Am I willing to wear the same pair of jeans for two months in a row?" If the awnser is "yes" then it sounds like you have what it takes to make it happen!
The off road preformance of your xt600e isn't going to be great with both of you and luggage, but on the plus side there will be an extra set of hands to help you drag it out of the mud.
Have a great trip!
Nate

The biggest problem is the limited space for two asses. Sitting on the same square centimetres soon becomes a pain.

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Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

Sweet, thanks for the info. Is there any way to re-cushion the seats for a better experience? How about adding a steel rack that extends a little past the end of the bike for the tent and sleeping bag so that there is more sitting room?

hi there, about 1 year ago my girl and myself rode my xtz660 from london to india.

it was brilliant, i did a few mods to the bike to make this easier, firstly super quality luggage racks,custom made,, re cushioned the seat, i shaved about an inch out off the front(more room for the jewels) and gave the lady about two inches more at the back(thickness)...then put a sheep skin cover on the seat.

the most important thing a did was vey simple but very important. i built a sissy bar or back rest that stopped the luggage from creaping forward and squashing my lady, but it also enabled my lady to lean back and relaxe... and if she is happy and comfortable half the battle is already won.
also used a boostaroo headphone jack so we both had the same tunes to listen to..

hope this helps, if you need more info more than willing to help....phil.

hello there
i would look at an ohlins shock if you are carrying that sort of weight and maybe some forksprings as well if you both are not to big it can be done , i had extra padding added to the seat on my xtz 660 that i rode for six months it helped,go enjoy oh yeah the luggage rack thing is a definate as well i am going for ali boxes on my next trip

[This message has been edited by thecanoeguy (edited 16 January 2006).]