I asked a similar question a few weeks back and didn't get much response... I thought the FMX might make a good hack - simple, strong engine (with electric start!), and as you say, they are pretty cheap/available here in the UK...
Mind you, I think part of the reason you feel comfortable on it is the 17" wheels? - if you changed them for 18/21s then it would basically be as high as an XR650L?
I rode a friends DRZ400SM in the USA and was surprised how 'little' it felt compared to the regular (18/21 wheel) S or E version...
I guess a good compromise would be to stick with the 17" rear wheel and fit a 19" front rim so you have a better tyre choice for all terrain riding?
I also wondered about fitting a larger tank (say the Acerbis one for the XR650R that I have), but looking again at the machine it would probably be difficult to do without looking like a dogs dinner? The standard FMX fuel tank would be way too small for any decent range.
Going back to the DRZ400 - maybe that's the way to go? there are plenty of parts available (tanks/luggage racks etc) and it will sit at 70mph quite happily all day...
Hope that helps?
xxx
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