I'm sticking with my 2018 XR650L no matter what anyone says about them. Less expensive to buy and maintain and Honda reliability is unmatched in my 49 years of riding motorcycles. No it doesn't have all the new bells and whistles but that's precisely what I love about it. Starts and runs great every time I want to ride.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I am totally with you there!

@chrisvantassel8867

4 ай бұрын

If I had to do it again I would get the the XR as well. I have a Beta 390 now and it is great but the 650 would be a great all arounder

My friend bought a 2002 xr650l and wanted me to buy a duel sport. Cheapest one around was a 2008 Xr650l. After riding in the PNW. We decided a trip to Moab. Our Other friend found out about our trip and bought 2021 690R enduro. Two days of moderate riding . Both XRS was still going while the KTM was broke down . The KTM is far superior than the Honda , However I’ll take reliability over performance . True story

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Wow, that's the type of stories I've heard as well. And the reason why I prefer these Jurassic singles from Japan. The KTM might put a bigger smile on your face, but if something like that happens, the XR smile will continue on into the desert. 🤣😁

@paulvanhout9695

2 жыл бұрын

What problems did the 690 have? I have a 2019 690 Enduro R and after 8,000 miles it has been trouble free. I did upgrade the clutch slave cylinder as it is a know issue.

@hawkeif534

2 жыл бұрын

@@paulvanhout9695 I have 17k miles on my 2019 without issue

@hawkeif534

2 жыл бұрын

I have 17k miles on my 2019 without issue

@bradsanders6954

Ай бұрын

A friend commuted on his XR650L , for some months on hiway and freeway. The bike ran so hot it cooked the rings, it dropped the valve seats out of the head, which blew the engine to bits. Get an oil cooler, raise the gearing, add cooling fins, if your going to ride a 650L long distance. They will scatter. A head for an L is like 750.00 on ebay, because they are in demand.

Funny how vastly different these two bikes are and yet how we all seem to converge at this choice between the two, with evidence being the existence of this video. One machine is a cutting edge, factory-developed offroad scalpel. The other a dependable, friendly, 30 year old dinosaur. I want them both!

People ask why I prefer the old school big dual sports over the high comp ktm and husky bikes. This is what I ask them. You ever fight an old guy? If you beat the old guy then you beat an old man. But if the old guy beats you them you got your ass kicked by and old man. Im here for the old guys. 🤌🏼

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah!! That's a brilliant analogy. Lovit!

Congrats! No bs. Straight to the point. Now you have the chance to do the same with the AJP PR7. I'll be waiting. ✌

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

🤣 Yeah, that is what I like about the XR. It's cheap and you get everything you need and no more😎✌

Wow, I was just thinking of this, then it popped into my feed. Amazing!

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks man, yeah I think you suggested it earlier in a comment. It is a bit unfair to the KTM seeing that I've not owned one... but after my 5 hours ride on the XR this morning... I don't think I need a 690 😁

@sgtunix

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel I nearly choked on my coffee laughing when you talked about your friend's KTM 640 and his main jet vibrating out!

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@sgtunix true story! and freakin' scary on the highway! 😱🤣

Lekker content, great channel 👍

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, I appreciate it! Cheers en dankie

great video. another thing that is possible with the xr is the great amount of customization that can be done because of the amount of after market part. I think that is appealing to people that like to tinker with there bikes

I like the old school Honda 650l its a great bike and easy to work on. I owned one a few years back and am kicking myself for selling it. I own a toyota 4runner which is old school technology, but the most capable suv ever made.

Not unnecessary that what’s one of the best demos on KZread 🤘🇬🇧

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, man. Appreciate it!

Great video. I just put a down-payment on a 2021 xr650l. I've always had good luck with Hondas ever since my first z 50s as a child.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

The Honda is great for its simplicity and the ride is amazing in the dirt. Enjoy!!

Thanks for making this video! I am looking at both right now.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Let me know what you get

@bradsanders6954

Ай бұрын

Dont test ride a 690R, just dont do it. They are literally so good, and strong, all the BS about unreliability is just that. BS. Funnest bike ever! Or buy a slug 35HP 650 econo boxer and vibrate and buzz all the way down the road, with 39 cent suspension,

@THX5000

Ай бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel I got the husqvarna 701 enduro. I have had to mod it quite a bit but its been great.

@GreaseAndGravel

Ай бұрын

@@THX5000 Congrats! That's awesome. Enjoy it.

With these kind of bikes it makes a HUGE difference in how a person is using it. Some do more highways and some do more off road. The best bike totally depends on the situation.

@GreaseAndGravel

4 ай бұрын

100%!

Wow man, a Landcruiser too? I'd like to see some more of that.👍☺

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I was wondering whether I should post some vids on the Cruiser... will definitely share some in the near future 😁

Just picked up a 2016 Kim 690 enduro for just under 6000 US dollars with 5000 miles . They are getting more affordable and definitely more fun on the road for me . Great practical video thanks

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing, Barney! I 100% believe you that they are more fun. I think if I had the cash, I'd change my conclusion 😉 Enjoy the KTM!

@jordesign

2 жыл бұрын

That's a great price. I never see them that low, ever... Good find.

Good efforts on the video man but you should really ride both in order to have a VS video! I've owned both and choose the XR over my 690 but to be fair I put a lot of money into the XR to put it in the same league! The biggest complaint about the KTM is the lack of a wide ratio tranny yet its called an enduro bike! Makes no sense! Long story short put money into the XR as I did its a 690 killer stock vs stock the 690 is in another league! Just my thoughts! 👍

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks man, I agree. I can't fully compare to bikes by just riding the one. Should have called it "My views on the KTM690 vs XR" or something... but from what I've heard and read, I personally won't want to spend the extra money on a 690. And for the, my XR is quick enough for me. Once I've mastered some of your skills (love your vids BTW!) I might start thinking of upgrading the XR 😉😎

@manumoto9720

3 жыл бұрын

Totally agree, I owned a KTM 690 Enduro 2014 and Honda XR650L 2007. I still have the xr650l love it.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@manumoto9720 That's good to know! Thanks for the feedback

@HeddleTown

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Thanks for the compliments and good video none the less.. keep at it persistence pays off!

@chrislollich525

2 жыл бұрын

Just pumped my XR650L the thing haul A$$.

So I own a Husky 701 and I have modded it, added the Coober piggyback chip, intake mod, protection etc. Out of all the bikes I own or have owned I have never seen mods make such a difference. As a stock bike it was just ok, it struggled holding 70MPH or at least worked harder than what I felt comfortable with. After the Coober it purrs at 80mph and has incredible power (hard to keep the wheel on the ground) All of that being said I am considering adding the XR650 to the stable simply due to its proven track record of reliability, purpose built etc. The 690/701 is flat out a better machine all the way around and with these mods it just widens the gap but adventure riding can create the biggest challenges for a bike so for me reliability is king. I have not had issues with my 701 but if I were to be in the middle of nowhere I bet my mind would be more at peace with the XR or for that matter a DR. I am wondering if any experienced riders have input on the reliability of a 690/701 vs the XR650.

@petebusch9069

4 ай бұрын

That's weird, my KTM 690 SMCR can rip down the freeway doing 80-90 no problem. I wonder if the enduro is different in that respect? Mine is modded with intake, exhaust and tune but when it was stock it would still pull just fine at those speeds, just took a little longer to get there. I never feel like I'm winding out or bogging at high speeds.

@chrisvantassel8867

4 ай бұрын

Ya, I am sure because it is a street machine it is geared differently. The 701 stock at about 60 started struggling, it could hold 65-70 but the engine was working hard. Once I added the Coober and intake mod it was a different machine. Either way, it was still not a pleasant ride for more than 20 miles.@@petebusch9069

Hello from Mississippi, USA. Well done video, probably the best I've seen comparing these two bikes. Most (not all) buyers of this class of bike aren't capable of exceeding the XR's performance limitations, let alone the KTM's. For these buyers, there is no good argument to buy the KTM.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Russell. I totally agree with you. I wasn’t capable of getting close to the XR’s limits.

@bradsanders6954

Ай бұрын

Dont test ride a 690. Just dont do it. You'll be wrecked and have to have one.

@bradsanders6954

Ай бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel If your that low a level of rider, should you be testing these bikes and telling people things? An XR650L has an exceedingly low performance level. Its a wobble box of a bike.

@GreaseAndGravel

Ай бұрын

@bradsanders6954 With zero videos and 3 subscribers, should you be making suggestions to KZreadrs? ;)

@bradsanders6954

Ай бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Make what ever rules you want. Its the viewers who decide. Even a million views doesnt make much money on youtube.....all some have is click/bait.

You’ve got me convinced. I want an XR650L. I have a 2021 Honda CRF300L Rally, and a 2006 Kawasaki KLR650. I’m thinking of replacing the old KLR with a newer bike. I’m considering the XR650L, and the R.E. Himalayan. For comparison, the Honda XR650L is thirteen pounds heaver than the Honda CRF300L Rally. There are differences in the two Hondas, like fuel injection/carburetor, and air/water cooling, but, I think they might compliment each other. Thanks for all your insight.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the continued support, Allan. Why do you want to replace the KLR? I think I've mentioned before, but I had a 2007 Gen1 and I still miss it. What do you want to use the XR for? I still love the XR, but I am almost thinking that a KLR650 for commuting and touring, and a light dirt bike for playing is a great combo. The XR is great as an all-rounder, but not as good as the KLR on the open road and much heavier than a dirt bike in the dirt.

@0HARE

2 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Yep, I still love the KLR, and ride it daily. It has 68,000+ miles on it, and still runs great. I have dropped it a few times, and one of the plastic panels needs some work to fit right. The red color is faded, and it’s scratched up a bit. When I retire from work next month, I won’t need to use it for commuting any longer. For me the replacement bike for the KLR is a toss up between the XR650 and the R.E. Himalayan.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

@@0HARE Oh yes, I remember you mentioned the mileage before. Wow, that is amazing! I understand now. It is time for a new bike :) I don't know the Himalayan, but it looks like the XR will be more dirt oriented. Definitely a fun bike to ride. Please keep me posted.

@edfeten4724

2 жыл бұрын

@@0HARE It's been a while since your post. I'm interested to hear what you decided on XR650L or Himalayan... two very different bikes.

@0HARE

2 жыл бұрын

@@edfeten4724 I’m still working, and still use the KLR some for commuting. She just turned 70,000 miles on the ride home from work last night. She still runs and handles as good as new, so, I’ll probably just hang on to her for a while longer. I have become very interested in the new Yamaha Tenere’ 700 as a replacement for the KLR. We’ll have to wait & see how that goes. Happy Trails

I've owned both and of course the KTM has more power and is smoother on the street but working on it takes a lot more work and is much more expensive. Off road I actually like the XR more

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

That is interesting to hear! Thanks for sharing. Why do you prefer the XR off road?

@bf9396

2 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel I definitely love the 690 on the street more cause of the power and handling but off road the 650L feels more like a dirt bike than the 690 and has that amazing low end torque to get up anything. But I do miss my KTM a lot trust me.

I have the 690 and travelled around Australia on a 640, I had a few silly problems with the 640 and vibrations was insane! 2019 690 is a nice bike I have took precaution by changing slave cylinder, decat,(still need to do the kickstand sensor) and getting to know the bike before I do a big trip, but your right the Honda is probably more reliable but just not as fun to ride when you ride them back to back, Cool video though 🤙 my 690 is the best bike I’ve ever owned I personally have had zero issues with mine you only ever hear about the bad stuff online

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

That is so true. It is only the bad experiences that spread and gets blown out of proportion. Unfortunately, I am someone who worry more than I should🤣 Yeah, a friend of mine nearly crashed on the highway when his 640's main jet rattled out from the vibes. I am 100% sure I'd love the 690 more than the XR if I wasn't such a cheapskate. Thanks for watching the vid! Cheers

@markcrum5895

2 жыл бұрын

You said you have never had an issue with your KTM. Then go on to tell about all the parts you have replaced. Seems rather ironic...doesn't it? ...

@DB-fn3fz

2 жыл бұрын

@@markcrum5895 he only mentioned three (3) modifications and clearly said they were preemptive, meaning they weren't already broken. So I'm not sure what you mean

I have a new 2021 KTM 690 and an old XR 600. My old XR is a beast powerful while the KTM is meh. The 690 handles better on the road but my old 600 is wild with torque and a much better dirt bike. If I could have found a reasonable priced XR650L I wouldn't have purchased the KTM.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the interesting info, Aaron! It is great to hear from someone who owns both.

When I was choosing a bike to do the trans-America trail years ago, I went with the XR-650L since it got lots of recognition for its reliable simplicity and was called "bullet-proof" by many. Yes, the KTM is a better bike but not the better bike for riding far away from factory trained technicians!

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

That's exactly how I see it too! That must have been an amazing trip!

Pretty cool video, 👍👍 I have never rode a XR650L, old reliable Honda tech.. I have a '19 690 Enduro R and have a great time on it every ride.. No issues and have had it offroad about 15 times & the only thing is remembering to switch off the abs after restarting or the occasional stall, the abs lean angle traction control on road, slipper clutch, quick shifter and rev matching make it irreplaceable for me.. Will never look at the old tech Honda Dispite the reliability and affordable price.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback, Peter. I totally believe you that the 690 is an awesome bike. I don't know where my love for the old tech bikes comes from... 🤣 I just love them. Cheers

@peterklausner9727

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Oh I totally understand. The reason why I got it was because I remember how much fun I had on my buddies old XR 80 when I was a teenager learning how to ride.. & it was to me awesome...Not riding for several decades.. I got a NC750X with a DCT.. It was great in its own right.. I needed something.. else.. researched on KZread like crazy.. Called 7 KTM dealers, every one was sold out months ago.. & on my last call I found a '19 KTM 690 Enduro R.. Immediately gave him my CC# for deposit.. Without ever riding one! When I picked up the bike and was first driving it around city streets.. I initially thought that I made a huge mistake.. It felt like a tractor, unrefined & uncivilized sort of.. Not until I pinned it on the highway for a few seconds..Did I realized that I made a great choice..& I was literally laughing my ass off in my helmet.. & offroad several times I had to stop to do the same... I have had it for almost two years & I will keep it for another few years..Oh and only basic maintenance, Oil changes, tire change on the rear tire, & runs great 👍😁👍

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback@@peterklausner9727 It is great to hear you are loving the KTM. I have to own a KTM one day. Enjoy!!

@peterklausner9727

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Thanks Bud!! It is a bit painful to pony up the initial cash.. But once you have one you will not regret it.. All the parts are top notch IMHO.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@peterklausner9727 Thanks! Until my wallet approves I'll stay off the orange bikes so that I do not get tempted 🤣

I've heard XR650L is difficult to ride, cuz of the weight & mushy suspension, you have to fight with it in the turns off-road, you mentioned they weigh the same but you didn't say how about they compare with the modern engineering of the KTM, for ease of rideability? Thx

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

I am sure the KTM will handle much better in terms of suspension and steering. The XR is quite mushy up front, but still a blast. And the reliability and cost of ownership is a big plus compared to the KTM

You can upgrade XR650L with followings: KYB Yokatsu Suspension upgrade (maintains its suspension travel with full adjustability), Superflow air filter, Primary Drive Front Sprocket Upgrade, and Tusk rack system, and dyno tune it. It will out do KTM 690 Enduro R all day at anywhere - and it will last you about 100,000 miles.

@D73GT

Ай бұрын

You are joking right?

@LooxJJ

Ай бұрын

​@@D73GT If you aren't lucky enough to own 650R, that's only choice you got.

I was riding KZN offroad areas for a number of years with a bunch of mates. Bikes were evenly split between XR650L and KTM690's. My 690 riding mates spent more time recovering / towing their bikes home due to frequent reliability issues.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Interesting... I've heard the same... and while I agree with some that the KTM is better in most respects, I just don't think the difference is that big in real life scenarios. The rider will play a much bigger role.

I owned a 2007 Honda XR650L for 13 years doing some upgrades & was & is a awesome motorcycle but mostly street riding the KTM ENDURO 690R became the unicorn & if people can afford the KTM that's the only way to experience the difference. Everyone ride safe.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I totally believe you! I think a big part of the equation is the price for me... #cheapskate 😉

@raypetrocelli595

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel if you could test drive one you'd see it's worth it, the specs don't convince like a ride lol

I wonder if Chris Scott didn't mean the Honda XR650R when he wrote about XR's being enduro bikes. That would be a more fair comparison to the KTM. XR650L = 8,3:1 compression 43,6 hp 51,8 Nm 147kg. Air/oil cooled XR650R = 10:1 compression 61,2 hp 64Nm 133kg. Liquid cooled.

@GreaseAndGravel

8 ай бұрын

Could be, and I wondered the same thing... but they did use three XRLs on the Desert Riders project. Insane really, but they made it.

XR'S Rule !!!! Thanks from NOR-CAL!!!!!

I love XR650l and I do jump and wheelie it.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Maybe I'll get there one day, but for now I am too damn scared! I also love the XR!!

@bf9396

2 жыл бұрын

Same!

@chrislollich525

2 жыл бұрын

Ride on , me too.

Ktm is more high performance, the Honda you will pass down to your great grand children

seat comfort = Honda. Post ride maintenance = Honda. Cool factor (when at Starbucks showing off your bike) = KTM Most skipped days of riding due to maintenance or repair = KTM. Fuel Octane = Honda runs on any pump gas you can find. KTM is picky. Get what your budget allows. Its amazing a 1993 bike can even be compared with a 2021 model.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

That last sentence says it all 👌😎

@frednorma1

3 жыл бұрын

Don't forget about parts. I work on bikes and I can't stand finding parts for KTM. They seem to discontinue parts faster than any manufacturer

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@frednorma1 That's a good point! I've seen KTM stand for months at my mechanic-friend's shop

@manuelfvdias

2 жыл бұрын

Yep. Agreed. If any more evidence its needed...

@Britishshooter

2 жыл бұрын

@@frednorma1 Bullshit! Actually the ongoing KTM OEM parts supply WORLDWIDE beats any Japanese manufacturer by a very long way and are 60% of the Japanese prices too, again WORLDWIDE and not in the USA. Try finding parts for a XR650L outside of the USA V finding KTM parts and you will be shocked. Even riding through 23 states on the extended TAT (7,350 miles), I was surprised to find it how much easier for me to get KTM parts in ant town or city than for my buddy to find Yamaha parts that were in IN STOCK for his WR250R, one of the most common Yamaha dual sports in the USA.

The KTM 690 Enduro is simply sublime

@GreaseAndGravel

4 ай бұрын

I believe you. Maybe one day :)

I love the Honda, sadly only the KTM is available in the Netherlands. I ride the Honda since 1986. (CR125r).

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

I think the Euro emissions standards are to blame. We also don't have the XR's in SA anymore... this was one of the last ones (2012).

Looking at all the bikes in the same class as the Honda, I would not trade my 2019 for anything else out there.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I also can't think of anything that I'd trade for, except maybe an XR650R 😁

Pick a given distance in a parking lot and compare which bike can take the longest to traverse the distance without putting a foot down.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

That's a brilliant test... but as always, the rider will play a bigger role

You need to compare the XR650R with the 690

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Yes, that is true! Then the 690 has even less of a chance.

XR650L goes everywhere! Two wheel tractor!

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Totally!

klr for range. or husqvarna lr

Will honda be selling xr 650 l any time soon?

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I hear there are some riders waiting for their machines... where are you from?

@ashrafedwards2125

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Cape Town . I contacted Honda. No chance they said.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@ashrafedwards2125 Ah, I thought you are in the US. Some folks are waiting for months there as well. I heard rumors (about a year ago) that they will come to SA, but I also don't see that happening. Very sad that they stopped after such a short while in SA.

the ktm and husky is so worth it. those things are missles on and off road.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

They are awesome bikes

This xr is an amazing bike but compared to a 2021 690 is a toy bike lol

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

A much cheaper toy that can still do most of the same things 😁

You didn’t mention maintenance bet the Ktm needs fore love

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Oh yes, of course. I forgot about that. And as far as ease of maintenance, the XR is definitely a step ahead.

@zeez9053

3 жыл бұрын

Adventure Bike Troop 👍🇬🇧

I'm witcha with the Honda😊!

Definetly Honda XR650L.

This isn't even a question. Honda. If only for the peace of mind.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Totally agree!!

@bf9396

2 жыл бұрын

After owning both I agree

in 2040 there will still be a lot 650L's around. cant say the same about the ktm.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I am pretty sure that is going to be the case

@mohba01

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel thanks for recommending desert riders, found it on youtube ... mad...mad men...that chris scott guy.

@humzilla707

3 жыл бұрын

My 08 690 still doing great. Maybe some day it will need a piston or head gasket, maybe not.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@humzilla707 That's great to hear! I've heard a lot of good stories about the 690s as well. Have you had any issues with the clutch slave, instruments, fuel pump, etc?

@humzilla707

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel put new o rings in clutch slave, instrument panel needed dielectric grease because it didn't get the recall updated panel, cams and injector were replaced as preventive maintenance (my 1st gen has small fuel ports). Sold my XR650R for the 690, I was a little worried at first but it's been a great bike. No I don't trust it like the XR but the fun factor is worth it to me.

If Honda or Suzuki made their 650 available with ABS that'd be a game-changer. some people prefer reliability, some prefer safety.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

I know many people disagree, but that's why I love what Kawasaki did with the KLR. Optional ABS for nearly the same price as a new XR650L.

@oliverallen5324

Жыл бұрын

Booo

After trying it to repair a friends Buell Ulysses, I don’t want anything to do with a fuel injected computer bike. Ever. High tech B.S. is the last thing you want out in the boonies!

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Totally with you! That is the single biggest factor for me when I ride off out of civilization. Glad to see you are riding again and making vids!!

@kevinlancaster5714

3 жыл бұрын

What I've found as a professional mechanic is, old technology has never been better technology. New technology in the long run will always be what keeps you from walking. I wanted to buy the XL but refused to own anything carbureted ever again. Not because I don't know how to work on them, I'm sixty, I grew up on carburetors. Fuel injection is better and anyone who says otherwise is clueless. I bought the 690 and I'm not looking back.

@xtman693

3 жыл бұрын

@@kevinlancaster5714 I completely dis agree. While fuel injection may be better performance wise, it introduces way more things to go wrong in the chain of things to go wrong. Carburetors rarely “fail” beyond what can be repaired in the field. A TPS , CPS or MAS can straight up fail. The wiring going to and from a computer can develop rubs and shorts over a few thousand miles of dirt. Low voltage connections are prime for corrosion, a bad ground will throw codes. Again hard to trace and can be difficult to repair. Older tech doesn’t require a “code scanner” to diagnose. When a CDI box fails it’s easy to figure out. When an ECM fails, throwing all kinds of codes it can be a real hassle trying to figure out on the trail. Having to whip out the volt meter and try to access all the wires for testing is not what a guy wants to do on a long ride in between towns. I service modern appliances, I know all about the fragility of new high tech gadgetry. It’s not more robust just more efficient. Give me an old Honda XR650L any day over anything with a computer on it.

@markcrum5895

2 жыл бұрын

@@kevinlancaster5714 nobody is saying a carb is better than fuel injection. But if a carb gets fouled in the back country,it can usually be fixed at least to get you home. That cannot be said about the fuel injection. It get fouled and you are going nowhere,except on foot.

@kevinlancaster5714

2 жыл бұрын

@@markcrum5895 I'm with you on that. I definitely don't want to be cleaning my KTM 690s fuel pump or injector out in the field because of crappy fuel. However, I do feel the benefits of the precision fuel delivery and performance that modern electronic injection gives far outweighs the clunky fuel delivery of a carb.

I would take the XR anyway over the KTM ... but I don’t need to since I rotate between a Generation 1 KLR, and a DR 650. I’d be interested to see what you say about a KTM 500 for adventure riding...

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I miss my old KLR! (had a 2007 Gen 1 and a 2003 C-model). Would love to own a DR650 one day. I've heard they are awesome. Have you seen RTW Paul's KTM500EXC that he has taken around the world a couple of times? Looks like an awesome light-weight setup!

Ask yourself what bike would I choose if my life depended on it ....no one in their right mind would bet on the Ktm

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Good point! And my view exactly!

ktm has double the power

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

I won't be able to use double the power with my skill level

3,5 minutes of video is introduction....hm...

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Yep, it is a problem that I am working on🙈

When Chris Scott lists "XR's" under enduro bikes he's talking about XR650R's, not L's. They are not even comparable, the L is a great bike, but not enduro. Get an R.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

I totally agree that the R is the one to get... yet Chris Scott still chose the XRL for their Desert Riders project and quotes a rider that had both as saying "... he'll stick with the 'L'; the 'R's extra poke offered no particular advantage once loaded up." 🤷‍♂️ The reason I like the L is that it is nearly half the price over here, which is a big part of my equation comparing it with the 690 Enduro R 😁

@broncoridesagain3176

2 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Ah ok, thank you for the clarification. Here in Australia for some crazy reason Honda stopped importing the L's about 15 years ago. They would have been very popular.

@chrislollich525

2 жыл бұрын

R's are a joke.

@broncoridesagain3176

2 жыл бұрын

@@chrislollich525 in what way?

I believe the 690 is best known for how bad it is off road. Never heard that about an XR. Really I'd your going to do this video ride some single track and try again. The roads shown are really big adv roads not the roads people buying these bikes want. The specs never make a bike.

You really want to be comparing the xr650r not L with the 690

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

That’s true. I am thinking of getting a 690 next year. Keen to see what it’s like to live with

This two bikes are not to be compared very different xr is a old model bike not even with looking at at today's standards.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

I think it depends on what you want to do with it. For touring away from civilization, the XR may even be better than the KTM in some respects. And I've seen people jump the XR at high speeds. The fact that the Honda design is 30 years old and can still do most of what the new 690 can do (albeit slower), is IMHO amazing 😁

@bf9396

2 жыл бұрын

After owning both I'd have to say the difference isn't that huge considering the price difference. I do miss the performance of the 690 but I love the peace of mind with the Honda

KTM's are overpriced and they have bolts made of lead. Great bike when it runs but not worth double the money of the XR- if it were significantly lighter than the XR then it would be more appealing. $$ for$$ Xr.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

That was my conclusion too. It is definitely a better bike, but not worth that much more than the XR (especially considering the potential reliability issues and additional cost of ownership)

@bf9396

2 жыл бұрын

I had a issue with the bolts as well between being stripped or coming loose.

Xr,s and old xl,s are tough as nails.....keep that KTM’s crap...also I rather a Toyota Land Cruiser to a piece of shyt Range Rover...the Japanese vehicles are more reliable by far

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

That has been my experience too. The Japanese jusst know how to make stuff last.

@hawkeif534

2 жыл бұрын

if you ride for reliability, good for you. if you want to experience riding, newer ktm just as reliable and vastly superior. hands down

LOW PROFORMANCE RELIABILITY

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, the Honda engine is definitely under-stressed (and under-powered). I totally get why a lot of riders don't like that and prefer faster bikes... but for me that is perfect. Means it will last longer and be less sensitive to low octane fuel etc.

@humzilla707

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel one of my biggest problems is trying to find high octane fuel in a small town in the middle of "nowhere". I've taken octane booster but that takes up valuable space and I'm not to confident in the results.

A person would have to be very confused to even compare these 2 bikes. XR650L hasnt changed in a long, long time, and is based on a XR600 from even a longer time ago. A soft mushy slow japanese econon boxer that over heats it's top end and smokes it if ridden too hard too long. The subframe is welded on and breaks with any kind of load. The bike vibrates hard and has no highway gearing...........econo box bike. The newer 690's absolutely kick ass, but many dont need that, they need sedate and cheap. Rattly old air cooled bikes with bold new graphics every year. Cheap/cheap.