Originally Posted by *Touring Ted*

On my DRZ I had soft bags and a big roll bag. A fair bit of weight but I was crossing Africa for 7 months. I don't know the exact weight but I had lots of tools and spares. I did the 3x3 power on my DRZ and had a sports exhaust and up-jetted for power. I still struggled to cruise at 65mph. I tried all sorts of gearing but the bike wasn't powerful enough for lower ratios 'with luggage'.. Kills were a pain. I was travelling with a guy on an old battered F650GS and he left me behind with ease.

The DRZ is a fine bike. It's simple, reliable, lightweight and has decent components. I would happily do another trip on one but only if it was an off-road based trip. I would pack MUCH lighter and stay away from highways.

The XRL is in the same category as the DRZ but with a bigger engine. They are just as reliable but obviously more powerful and a little more thirsty with it.

The XRL is also a very TALL bike. I'd say a little more vibey than the DRZ too. It's got a much weaker rear subframe but it's very simple to strengthen.

The XRL is hugely popular in the USA. There are sooooo many parts available. It's been going in it's current for for over 20 years. You can also get a Corbin seat for it too which it DEFINITELY needs. As does the DRZ.

If you're based in the UK or Europe then outfitted a DRZ is much easier. However, the XRL has a strong following. You can get almost everything you need for an XRL from Gab at Zen Overland. He did a RTW on his XR650L and swears it's the best bike for the job.

Tell me about your trip... Where are you going and what terrain are you covering ??