XT 3AJ - off road handling??
 

I am in the process of choosing a bike to tour Eastern Europe, Spain and Turkey. I like the 3AJ - comes with big tank, bash plate and small wind shield - but does it handle off road???. How would it compare to a KLR or DR 650. I have had plenty of off road experience back in Australia on a XR 250. Any suggestions? I am looking for a good compromise off-road/ road bike. Is it the 3AJ?

Hi Benaus,

ofcourse it's a very good bike, it does everything better than any other bike except going very fast on a straight motorway. Look at the pictures on www.tenere.nl and www.aiofrance.com to see how it handles off-road. Compared to a KLR and a DR it's a bit heavy but as you say, the others are less adapted for travelling. And if your riding skills are ok it shouldn't be a problem. p.s. Don't forget the XTZ660 !

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Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

Hi Benaus,

I agree with Fred that this is a good bike on and off road. I myself own a 3AJ, toured a lot on road in Europe (Spain, Portugal, Hungaria, two up) and did some serious off roading on a trip from the Netherlands to Ghana (solo). The bike so far has never failed me. The type of off road riding you encounter in Europe should be no problem at all. I have no experience with DR’s or KLR’s but I’m so satisfied with this bike that I don’t feel any urge to go looking for a replacement, maybe this says enough!

Cheers,
Vincent

Thankyou Gentlemen, this is what I wanted to hear!

Regards.