Is the CRF250L a worthy adventurer
So I've wanted an Adventure bike since 2004 when I fell in love with Ewan, Charlie and the R1150GSA. Now is the time to get away from work and life and start riding again.
I almost bought a R1200GS late last year until I realised it will cost a fortune to service and I don't want to be that middle aged guy at breaking point trying to pick up his 250kg bike in the middle of nowhere.
Here's bikes I considered in order:
KLR650 - was perfect when I wanted fire trails but I think I want to get more off piste
DR650 - crappy range (upgradeable) and more capable than the KLR but still heavy
690 Adventure - probably a great bike but getting old
DRZ400S - getting lighter, probably great but seems expensive and rare used examples in VIC
WR250R - Looks like fun but $2k dearer than the CRF250L
CRF250L - my latest suits me bike
So the CRF250L looks interesting - it's a reliable dual purpose bike light enough for me to brush up on my off road skills. The 6spd box and wide ratios I am hoping are enough to commute to dirt.
My idea for the next 12-24 months is to ride 50kms of tar from my house and explore the dirt roads of South Gippsland, The Yarra Ranges National Park and into the Victorian High Country. I'm sure there will be additional stretches of tar between destinations including he Princes Hwy/Eastlink home from places like Traralgon and Seymour after long days off road when the sun is getting low.
Is the CRF250L a sensible choice with an upgraded tank and/or RotopaX fuel cells for the above riding?
NB: I'm not really aiming to be the latest MX hero but more load up my lightweight collapsable fishing rod and lightweight gear and do long day trips and the odd overnighter exploring the state. I don't need every last HP but I don't want something completely gutless either.
Feedback appreciated.
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