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Wufnu
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Post subject: Fat man wants to ride a motor cycle, inquiries within...
 Posted: Apr 20, 2005 - 08:04 PM
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Board n00b
Joined: Apr 20, 2005
Posts: 2
Status: Offline
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I used to have an enduro that I used to drive on trails and back roads (illegally, especially at 14) and had alot of fun. I would like to do that again (I'm not that old, 23) but also use the bike to make the trip to work every day (30 miles each way on the interstate). I can't really give you a percentage, but I would prefer something that will handle itself well off road. I will be doing alot of "cruising" on the weekends and I believe there are alot of trails I can ride around on here (and I have some acreage myself). My main concerns are a: suspension, b: power.
My first dirt bike enduro was a Honda XL 100s. I had so much fun on that thing, but it had almost no speed so it wasn't a street bike (although it could be made street legal). I weighed some 200lbs back then and the shocks didn't last very long. Well, technically they lasted a long time but they leaked for a very long time. They bottomed out quite a bit. I want a bike that can at least manage my currently 280lb frame. I'm not talking jumps, just simple trail riding and street riding.
It also needs to be capable of propelling me at speeds of at least 70mph, preferably 80.
I have been looking at the Kawasaki KLR650, it looks very capable (although will probably need new suspsension).
Do you have any other suggestions? |
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EvMon
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Post subject: RE: Fat man wants to ride a motor cycle, inquiries within...
Posted: Apr 20, 2005 - 08:59 PM
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Moderator
Joined: Jan 16, 2005
Posts: 92
Location: Bay Area, California
Status: Offline
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The KLR650 sounds very reasonable for what you describe. While stiffer springs would probably improve handling for you, I don't think it would be necessary. Simply adjusting the pre-load would probably be ok for casual riding. I've gotten as high as 260lbs and have never gone to stiffer springs (well I put stiffer, progressive springs on my old XL, but I weighed a lot less and was riding it real hard). While many would argue I should have, at that weight I never had the stamina or interest to really push the bike to the point it was necessary.
I would certainly give it a try before putting more money into it though... |
_________________
'94 RMX250R - '95 Nighthawk 750 - '97 XR600R - '01 WR426 ('99 PW50 - '01 TTR-90; for the kids)
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Wufnu
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Post subject:
Posted: Apr 20, 2005 - 10:03 PM
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Board n00b
Joined: Apr 20, 2005
Posts: 2
Status: Offline
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Good idea. I think I'll find a local Saki dealer and test ride one. Well, after I get my permit/licence. That should tell me all I need to know.
Thanks! |
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