London to Capetown - Bike for a big boy!

[cheese2805]

Hi all..

First post on HUBB!
Looking at completing a 9 month trip from London to Capetown in mid 2016 and have begun some prep work for the adventure - however I require some much needed advice….

I am a 6' 4, 17stone rugby playing lad and am having major difficulties sourcing the right bike for my frame.
The three bikes in mind at the moment are:
DR 350
DR 650
XR 400

Obviously each has there own pro's and con's. My budget for the trip will be extremely tight, which makes me veer more to the 350 for financial reasons, however the 650 will provide the required 'umph' and power for my weight. I would prefer a lighter bike for the obvious off-roading element of Africa however Im worried a 350 might not suffice for functioning ideally with the weight of myself and luggage. Same issue with the xr400..

Any comments, advice or plain criticism would be much appreciated! Thanks

James

[robson]

have you seen Long Way Down movie? same trip you're planning they did in about 3 months or so on bmw 1200GS Have a look also at yamaha xt660z
should be good for your height, it's very tall bike and not expensive. I think you should not go (I wouldn't) with anything less then 600cc.

[cheese2805]

Fantastic series! Just finished watching it again actually.

Thanks - will check out the yamaha! I agree.. I think anything less than a 600 might just not hack it.

James

[Chrispy]

G'day James,

My 660 Tenere will be back in the UK mid Oct after just completing a UK to Magadan trip. It's too tall for me and that's why I'm going to be selling it. I need to service it and change the chain and tyres, but apart from that it's ready to go. Let me know if you are interested and I'll PM you with some more details.

If you want to know what it looks like check out the blog below.

Chris

[cheese2805]

Hi Chris,

Thanks for getting in touch. Your travels looks incredible - brilliant blog! Definitely considering the 660 tenere, however unsure as to when I will be purchasing one.. Some specs and details would be great however, if you're willing to PM me. Thanks again Chris.

Regards
James

[Chrispy]

Hi James,

Sent you a PM

Chris.