So I'm sitting on a new CB500X in my local Montana Honda dealer. He points at the XR650L and says, "Those things are dinosaurs. We sell a million of them."
@chrishart85482 сағат бұрын
63.8hp at the wheel is good for the T7 the F800GS is 71hp and it starts with 85hp
@charlesjackson8862 сағат бұрын
best upgrade video i have seen, and man have i watched a bunch, love your taste in components, im the same way
@chrishart85482 сағат бұрын
Any single cylinder seems feather light vs same capacity twin.
@faissal89973 сағат бұрын
I think you meant assess in the description not asses 😁
@AZFarmFun-hp1cu4 сағат бұрын
A 500 EXC would dominate the 650L.
@twowheeladventures632 сағат бұрын
Is that surprising for twice the cost?
@simpleman_adventures27254 сағат бұрын
I just rode an xr with a 13tooth front sprocket and holy cow does it change the bike still seemed to do well on paved roads around 60 65 ish didnt go much faster but on slow and fire roads holy cow. Torque monster.
@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC5 сағат бұрын
I’m still laughing inside at the idea of a “middle weight” adventure bike. Even a “middle weight” adventure bike is still too heavy for what most riders want to do with them. They have an idea that it will be better off road.
@RETRIBUTION20255 сағат бұрын
Having that skateboard above my headlight would drive me nuts. Loving the vids, nice work, very informative. 2023 XL650L owner.
@quadsquadgarage5 сағат бұрын
You are renewing my love for this bike with these videos! I'm in the market for another bike so I've been reviewing everything, (klx300, crf300l, xt250, dr650, drz400, crf450rl, xr650l). Everything seems like I'm settling and trying to like them. I had 2 XR400R's and loved those bikes, but they could not be road legalized here in western Canada.
@donaldheine62435 сағат бұрын
That gas millage is a major issue with the honda xr. Even with a larger gas tank it's still not enough. From what I understand these engines don't last as long either. And no cush drive. Suzuki is finally fuel injecting the DR650, and DRZ400 for next year. Let's hope they add a 6th gear to the trans.
@twowheeladventures632 сағат бұрын
Fuel injection for next year on the DR? I doubt it. Where are you getting that info?
@davidkelly58365 сағат бұрын
Dave Moss Tuning is on KZread, he tunes and maintains all the way from race bikes down to people's daily rides, he can remotely tune your suspension with an online appointment, he gives a very good run down on this subject, the top of the chain above the swing arm should barely move when tension is placed on the lower part of the chain. Not picking on this young fellas video, he did quite a lot better than most on this, good work
@quadsquadgarage5 сағат бұрын
I've always wanted the XR and they don't sell new ones here in Canada anymore. The only used ones that come up for sale are 15-20 years old with 70k on them. The DR's are a dime a dozen. Does the XR overheat at 100km/h extended periods or is it faster than that when I hear overheating claims?
@solacegrove97526 сағат бұрын
Look the Dunlop Trail Max mission fron and rear tires. Those are the most solid tires for a motorcycle I ever have seen. American made and they are 50/50
@TheWrigle6 сағат бұрын
Would be good to see some comparisons between the 650 thumpers and the t7 on a twisty mountain road, not just a straight highway. One of my favorite things about the t7 is it can handle nearly everything i throw at it off road, while stil feeling sporty and quick on road. When i owned a klr650 i enjoyed it off road, and it was fine on the highway, but super boring on any twisty road stuff. The t7 can have a great time on a ride with 90% dirt, or 0% dirt. I feel like its a great quiver killer for those who ride both on and off road, and place equal importance on both. Can the same be said for these 650s, or would i end up wanting to own a road bike for days when hitting the dirt isnt in the cards?
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Mmm interesting! I'll have to get my dad and the T7 up to some twisty roads for a test.
@nseric12337 сағат бұрын
If you put a pirelli mt21 front tire on with the tusk D sport or dunlop d606 rear, the only thing you give up on the road is mileage. The pirelli is way better on the road than the d606 while being as good or even better off road. DRZ guys have been using that combo for 20 years now, it just works and there's still nothing better than it for a lot of riders.
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Maybe I'll give that a shot, thanks!!!
@elliottaltman88327 сағат бұрын
Thanks for keeping up the good content! 👍 I’m really thinking about getting one of these xr650l’s. Anyone with experience with a xr650r? Would you recommend the R over the L for a dual sport adv build?
@SwankyCatProductions7 сағат бұрын
I'd check service intervals, but the XR-R seemed like a fairly good option when I last looked at them. Much more powerful than the L and lighter I think. The main reason I went the with L is that it's still available where the R has been disconnected.
@scottscribner47056 сағат бұрын
I have both! Been riding both for 20 years in CO. Highway, Forest roads & single track. I love both! Power and off road suspension with R is on another planet compared to L. Maintenance is a bit more often than L, but not much in my experience. It’s a Honda. I have L set up with more ADV stuff, but quickly removable for technical dirt. I have taken L on serious scary single track and lived, R is way better for that, but still scary. My R is “as is” from factory except for bars. That said, I ride the L 100x more than R. It’s just such a good all around bike. I want to ride the R more but, unless I feel the need to race someone on the dirt (modern KTM/Huskys are always shocked), the L just checks more boxes. Disclaimer, I’ve never ridden those other brands, they seem pretty awesome also! IDK. You can do a bunch of mods to the R to make it more versatile like L, but I feel you loose the “race” benefit of its agility if you do that. Since I’m fortunate to have both, I have the luxury. Something to consider, L has E-start, R is a kicker. If I drop R, it is sometimes pretty hard to clear and restart…. L runs upside down. At least the few times I’ve tested that function…. Lastly, I think that the L is usually referred to as the BRP (Big Red Pig), The R most definitely wears the “King of the Baja” title. Don’t let the “Pig” moniker dissuade you, that is only really when comparing it to an actual dirt bike! It’s a super capable ADV bike and dirt bike. Keep it light if on mostly dirt! No extended distance oversize tanks…. It changes the center of gravity too much (higher). It causes a push in the front end while cornering in dirt then, slams you to the ground hard! Just add a small rotopax to the back when you think you want more distance. The R is everything advertised as King of the Baja and then some…Times 10. Hope that helps and good riding with any choice you make.
@rh4267 сағат бұрын
I love the manual tripomiters having to wind till you get to 00000 👍
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
I do too! I just wish I could remember which way to turn them 🤣
@vaerenbergh7 сағат бұрын
i would never lower a bike, as long as you can reach with your tippytoes it is fine :) its gonna compromise its offroad capability's
@SwankyCatProductions7 сағат бұрын
I've always said the same thing! The XR has 12" of ground clearance though which is a solid 2" higher than any other bike I've ridden. While more is usually better, 10" has always been more than enough for my trails AND I'm fairly certain lowering the center of gravity along with the seat height, will improve the bike for 95% of the riding I'll do.
@vaerenbergh6 сағат бұрын
@@SwankyCatProductions that is a good point, but since you probably will be swwapping the seat out i would wait with lowering on the suspension, you are still messing with the geometry and rake when doing that, you could still use it as a harddualsport adv xD
@markwheat26687 сағат бұрын
Go with a 42 rear sprocket, hadn't seen a 16 front. Lowering link is a great mod
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
I've got a 16 from a sponsor that's supposed to fit, but it seems too big to me... guess we'll see! I can't wait to lower mine!!!
@heynow37888 сағат бұрын
Higher octane fuel is less prone to detonation and in an air cooled bike on a really hot day, you're less likely to get pinging and pre ignition that you might have with 87 octane. Detonation can cause serious damage, especially when it happens repeatedly in an engine without knock sensors to retard timing.
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Oh yeah, I suppose I should have known that haha. I remember hearing about detonation issues, but was thinking that was more on high performance stuff, but an air cooled 650 can certainly work up a sweat in the woods!
@heynow37888 сағат бұрын
IMO, you really don't need to lower your bike. If you're doing it because you're finding yourself putting your foot down in the woods and not touching the ground, once you get used to the tall seat height, you won't fall over as much. Lowering changes the geometry of the bike and will make it handle funny in all sorts of ways. Touching the ground used to be a thing for me too until I learned that the less I try to touch the ground, the less I would fall over and that forward momentum is your friend on any bike.
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Well said and I agree! The weight of my first KLR coupled with the seat height made me pretty uncomfortable until I got used to it. The XR is really fine for me since it's so much lighter and off road the height actually doesn't bother me at all. It's getting on and off at the gas stations and when I'm setting up cameras that bugs me the most. But the main reason I'm doing it is to see how it affects the handling. My much lower DR feels so much better on the road and on gravel, where the XR feels tall and uncomfortable. Lowering it will make it much less effective on an MX course, but that's less than 5% of my riding. So I figure it's at least worth a shot! If nothing else I'll be able to tell vertically challenged riders (like myself) if lowering it will really ruin, or maybe even improve the bike for ADV style riding.
@JohnDoe-1000xt8 сағат бұрын
Thanks Swanky..big 650 thumpers around 350 lbs are a blast..freeway work is possible BUT not really made for it..back roads and fire roads so good..I notice you ride way faster than us older geezers..MY DR650 always gives me a smile..putting along forest dirt roads is just the best..NICE XR BUILD.. 😃
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Thank you!!! Yeah, I'm pretty excited about the 650s. I've always wanted something that I can ride fairly confidently on the hwy (when I really need to) and then still be able to rip down ANY trail I find!
@stubabyfuora52808 сағат бұрын
Do you have a jet kit in honda at this time
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Not yet! I'll be doing a performance upgrade video after all the heavy mods are in place.
@glennmcguire55718 сағат бұрын
Always great videos as well as informative. Maybe some day you will purchase a KTM 390 Adventure SW 2023+. I sold my T7 and purchased a 2023, what a huge difference in the fun factor compared to the T7. It appears the majority of the 390 owners downsized from much larger bikes and most, not all, feel the same way as I do. Keep the great content coming.
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
I think I'll probably try to get on one at some point. They've always intrigued me and I'm certainly finding that light is the way to go with the new crop of big bores I've got!
@brianrahuba69199 сағат бұрын
I'm 57 yrs old, and I can contest any onboard computer will just dumb us down . How about learning the true environment you're in . The woods tell you everything what's going on in the area . Most fire roads will lead you to an asphalt road . The problem starts when you start single tracking . The woods will even tell you what direction you're going if you observe the tree life . Or follow a river if you can . At least you will have a water source . Look for dead animals in the river for bacteria reasons . Let your bike computer solve that problem for ya . 😉
@timlubbers28848 сағат бұрын
On the flip side, can tree lean tell you where a gas station is or more importantly a hospital?
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Interesting. I'd definitely agree that we should be far better at reading the woods. But I've spent years doing just that. Most of the trails we ride are pretty well ingrained in my brain, not so much the lengths but definitely where they go and the type of terrain along the way. I rarely look at the trails on my maps unless I'm looking for something specific like a lake or feature visible on a satellite image. The biggest reason I like having a nav unit is for the public / private land boarder info.
@jberejik4 сағат бұрын
How about just letting people ride however they like? We ride for different reasons. No need to police peoples preferences.
@brandonberg77033 сағат бұрын
The trees can tell me if I'm on an Indian Reservation, Federal land or someone's private property l? Next week I'll talk to a tree and ask for directions to the closet ⛽😊
@dothetontim9 сағат бұрын
I’ve been looking for a video from you comparing the DRZ to the XR. Gets mentioned a lot but I can’t seem to find any more lengthy comparison if you discuss it in any of your vids. My DRZ is set up like you’re doing with the XR and I am considering switching to an XR for better highway manners if it’s a big difference. Lack of a taller 5th or 6th doesn’t suggest it would be that much more comfortable at speed.
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
I really need to get back in a DRZ, but from what I remember the XR feels like it definitely has the power I was missing above 55mph and cruises at hwy speeds much more comfortably (again from what I remember). I think the gears must just be spread a little farther apart on the XR and the bigger motor just has the extra thump you need. It's no 701 or T7, but I believe it'll be a noticeable improvement. I'd say try to test ride a DR and XR and see what you think!
@JB-hm2yx9 сағат бұрын
Great video. What helmet was Jerry wearing?
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Thank you!!! It's actually my old GMAX, here's and affiliate link to it on Amazon. amzn.to/4bDLwi7
@lostinlamancha16 сағат бұрын
I'm not a hater. I' been riding bikes since I was six years old. Last summer I camped off my bike for 4 months and 10,000 miles across the western U.S. I like this channel and appreciate other videos. Just lock the bead in the drop center with a bead buddy or a tire iron or two. It will go on like butter.. This is painful to watch. If this were a trailside repair in Death Valley or on a mountain pass in Colorado you'd be hitting the SOS on your beacon for a heli-rescue before you pass out from dehydration or freeze to death. I'm happy to see you check run out and doing a static balance. Brass No-Mar screw on wheel weights on spoked rims are the real deal. This isn't a street bike, you don't want your stick on wheel weights fall off in a muddy hill climb. Oh and switch to silicone spray for the tube instead of baby powder cornstarch. It's been amazing that I never get a pinch flat. Adam Riemann gave me the original suggestion. Credit to him and all his desert racing experience and willingness to share it with us in his KZread channel....
@SwankyCatProductions6 сағат бұрын
Wow man that's awesome! I wish I had the stamina for something like that. Your saying my bead wasn't down in the valley enough? Or just that locking one side in place and working the other way round will make it easier? Can you use the silicone spray for tire lubricant as well then? I appreciate the honesty and info!!!
@SwankyCatProductions19 сағат бұрын
Hey Dual Sport Fans, thanks for joining me for this test! If you're doing some shopping, please consider supporting my content though these affiliate links. It makes a huge difference for us! Rocky Mountain ATV: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/?ref=1042& Car Play Nav Unit: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-wireless-portable-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo?ref=pcoxoocl Amazon: amzn.to/3Jfbfkn MotoCampNerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=rAQ-OX06xBU2aq 10% Off First MotoCamp Purchase Code: SwankyCat
@glennboy66Күн бұрын
unfortunately we dont get the xr650l in australia discontinued about 2001 I think and it was available in a R model.
@SwankyCatProductionsКүн бұрын
That's to bad! I wonder how long it'll be until they discontinue them here. They quit making the R here a while back I believe.
@timjrvineКүн бұрын
When I installed protaper bars on my tenere I tapped the bar and installed the stock bar extenders to give it enough control area. Bit of a pain the way the tenere controls take up so much space
@SwankyCatProductions20 сағат бұрын
Good idea! Yeah definitely annoying, but there are a few options to work around it.
@coobyeКүн бұрын
It would be interesting to see if you can retrofit the fairing to a DR650.
@SwankyCatProductions20 сағат бұрын
Hmmm, yeah it would! I wonder how far off the brackets are...
@coobye18 сағат бұрын
@@SwankyCatProductions I have a DR and that would be interesting to see. Are the headlights the same size?.
@grayl5514Күн бұрын
Weight. Say no more
@SwankyCatProductions20 сағат бұрын
True!
@davidrichardson54022 күн бұрын
Need swanky cat sticker, another great vid
@SwankyCatProductionsКүн бұрын
Thank you!
@thetrailbuzzard2 күн бұрын
Nice work setting up the new fairing and the ram mount with nav! Looks sharp and also really functional.
@SwankyCatProductionsКүн бұрын
Thank you!!!
@user-qn2oj4wn3m2 күн бұрын
Appreciate the narration. Helpful. Thank you.
@SwankyCatProductions20 сағат бұрын
Glad to hear that, thanks!
@davidwood9742 күн бұрын
I’ve heard you mention husky reliability on this video and others, have you ever experienced any issues on your 701?
@SwankyCatProductions2 күн бұрын
Nope, zero issues with mine so far. The slave cylinder was upgraded by the previous owner though and I've not been able to put enough miles on it to say for sure either way. I think they're more reliable than a lot of people say, but I've seen more than a few in Facebook groups and for sale that have had engine issues. I'd say it's a higher percentage than I've seen on other bikes I've owned and researched. However, as I said at the end I think most people who buy one are going to ride it very differently than someone who buys a KLR for example. These are not bikes you put around on.
@davidwood974Күн бұрын
@@SwankyCatProductions yeah, I’ve had my 901 for a year and a half…I take it on everything from single track to the highway and couldn’t be happier. I’m on a few different forums and pages about different bikes, and there’s always people with an ax to grind…and I always try and recognize they are only telling part of the story. Nice work on your channel, appreciate the bikes you’ve chosen and the topics you explore…also very cool to be doing that with your Dad. Safe travels
@donniebaker59842 күн бұрын
Dude it's not too high off the ground you just haven't learned to ride with both feet on the foot pes in a full lock slide at 100 mph yet ...but the dr650 Suzuki will not do anything correct no matter what you do except it will run all day at 115 mph on the interstate if you can stay out of jail
@SwankyCatProductions20 сағат бұрын
Haha 😂 I'll work on that.
@kingoffunelvispresley2612 күн бұрын
The XR 650 Sounds More Stout 🤷
@SwankyCatProductions20 сағат бұрын
Indeed!
@deltabluesdavidraye2 күн бұрын
All that matters is will it break down because of all that power to weight ratio.And no 72 is not more than double 40 as you claimed. Some strange math on that one there Buxko.
@SwankyCatProductionsКүн бұрын
The majority of us may see it that way, but not everyone values reliability over performance. If they did, KTM & Husky would go out of business! Your correct, I did mistakenly say MORE than half the HP, rather then less, which is what I meant to say. However, 40hp vs 74hp is far closer to half, than it is two thirds. So I think, "about half" is fair to say?
@deltabluesdavidraye2 күн бұрын
You do not need the extra power.Extra power can come at a cost.The wrong cost .
@SwankyCatProductionsКүн бұрын
Agreed, no one needs a 701. The DR & XR make way more sense. The 701 is a blast though!
@arkansasoutdoorschannel18672 күн бұрын
I just traded my DR650 for a FE 501s. So far I love it so much more than the DR. Is it perfect, no but the 501 is awesome.
@SwankyCatProductions2 күн бұрын
I might have to try one of them next!
@cheyennelayton2 күн бұрын
I'm 250lbs without gear about 260 265 with gear the klr is under powered for my weight doing highway speeds. I really like my klr 650. If I was only cruising around at 80-90km this bike would be great all day long but unfortunately for where I'm going it's not enough power to move in a emergency on the highway.
@SwankyCatProductions2 күн бұрын
I'm interested to see how my new bikes do with all my camp gear on the back. The KLR wasn't exactly comfortable for me on the highway either, but that was more because of the high speed wiggle.
@airadaimagery6922 күн бұрын
Are those MSR pants good for hot weather riding?
@SwankyCatProductions2 күн бұрын
With all the vents open and just the MSR base layer underneath, I run mine when it's in the low to mid 70s and sunny. Off road when your moving slow and working hard it can be too much with the coat. So I usually wear a long sleeve MX jersey under it, in case I need more air than the coat vents can provide. It does take a little getting used to, but after my accidents it's worth the trade off for me.
@JakeAskew-vp2bk2 күн бұрын
@SWANKY CAT you ever fin that ecm reflash you were talking about? Do anything with the fuel mixture at all?
@SwankyCatProductions2 күн бұрын
Nope, two wheeled dyno works never came out with anything while I owned the KLR. I've heard there are other options for fuel adjustments but never invested the money to try them.
@ArcticJeff3 күн бұрын
Those are some sweet looking trails! I'm envious. I'm inspired to go out and ride some back roads around here that are like those trails. Always a good ride when you get to go riding with your dad!
@SwankyCatProductions2 күн бұрын
Nice! Get it man!!! They're pretty awesome. So thankful that I get to share them with my dad!
Пікірлер
So I'm sitting on a new CB500X in my local Montana Honda dealer. He points at the XR650L and says, "Those things are dinosaurs. We sell a million of them."
63.8hp at the wheel is good for the T7 the F800GS is 71hp and it starts with 85hp
best upgrade video i have seen, and man have i watched a bunch, love your taste in components, im the same way
Any single cylinder seems feather light vs same capacity twin.
I think you meant assess in the description not asses 😁
A 500 EXC would dominate the 650L.
Is that surprising for twice the cost?
I just rode an xr with a 13tooth front sprocket and holy cow does it change the bike still seemed to do well on paved roads around 60 65 ish didnt go much faster but on slow and fire roads holy cow. Torque monster.
I’m still laughing inside at the idea of a “middle weight” adventure bike. Even a “middle weight” adventure bike is still too heavy for what most riders want to do with them. They have an idea that it will be better off road.
Having that skateboard above my headlight would drive me nuts. Loving the vids, nice work, very informative. 2023 XL650L owner.
You are renewing my love for this bike with these videos! I'm in the market for another bike so I've been reviewing everything, (klx300, crf300l, xt250, dr650, drz400, crf450rl, xr650l). Everything seems like I'm settling and trying to like them. I had 2 XR400R's and loved those bikes, but they could not be road legalized here in western Canada.
That gas millage is a major issue with the honda xr. Even with a larger gas tank it's still not enough. From what I understand these engines don't last as long either. And no cush drive. Suzuki is finally fuel injecting the DR650, and DRZ400 for next year. Let's hope they add a 6th gear to the trans.
Fuel injection for next year on the DR? I doubt it. Where are you getting that info?
Dave Moss Tuning is on KZread, he tunes and maintains all the way from race bikes down to people's daily rides, he can remotely tune your suspension with an online appointment, he gives a very good run down on this subject, the top of the chain above the swing arm should barely move when tension is placed on the lower part of the chain. Not picking on this young fellas video, he did quite a lot better than most on this, good work
I've always wanted the XR and they don't sell new ones here in Canada anymore. The only used ones that come up for sale are 15-20 years old with 70k on them. The DR's are a dime a dozen. Does the XR overheat at 100km/h extended periods or is it faster than that when I hear overheating claims?
Look the Dunlop Trail Max mission fron and rear tires. Those are the most solid tires for a motorcycle I ever have seen. American made and they are 50/50
Would be good to see some comparisons between the 650 thumpers and the t7 on a twisty mountain road, not just a straight highway. One of my favorite things about the t7 is it can handle nearly everything i throw at it off road, while stil feeling sporty and quick on road. When i owned a klr650 i enjoyed it off road, and it was fine on the highway, but super boring on any twisty road stuff. The t7 can have a great time on a ride with 90% dirt, or 0% dirt. I feel like its a great quiver killer for those who ride both on and off road, and place equal importance on both. Can the same be said for these 650s, or would i end up wanting to own a road bike for days when hitting the dirt isnt in the cards?
Mmm interesting! I'll have to get my dad and the T7 up to some twisty roads for a test.
If you put a pirelli mt21 front tire on with the tusk D sport or dunlop d606 rear, the only thing you give up on the road is mileage. The pirelli is way better on the road than the d606 while being as good or even better off road. DRZ guys have been using that combo for 20 years now, it just works and there's still nothing better than it for a lot of riders.
Maybe I'll give that a shot, thanks!!!
Thanks for keeping up the good content! 👍 I’m really thinking about getting one of these xr650l’s. Anyone with experience with a xr650r? Would you recommend the R over the L for a dual sport adv build?
I'd check service intervals, but the XR-R seemed like a fairly good option when I last looked at them. Much more powerful than the L and lighter I think. The main reason I went the with L is that it's still available where the R has been disconnected.
I have both! Been riding both for 20 years in CO. Highway, Forest roads & single track. I love both! Power and off road suspension with R is on another planet compared to L. Maintenance is a bit more often than L, but not much in my experience. It’s a Honda. I have L set up with more ADV stuff, but quickly removable for technical dirt. I have taken L on serious scary single track and lived, R is way better for that, but still scary. My R is “as is” from factory except for bars. That said, I ride the L 100x more than R. It’s just such a good all around bike. I want to ride the R more but, unless I feel the need to race someone on the dirt (modern KTM/Huskys are always shocked), the L just checks more boxes. Disclaimer, I’ve never ridden those other brands, they seem pretty awesome also! IDK. You can do a bunch of mods to the R to make it more versatile like L, but I feel you loose the “race” benefit of its agility if you do that. Since I’m fortunate to have both, I have the luxury. Something to consider, L has E-start, R is a kicker. If I drop R, it is sometimes pretty hard to clear and restart…. L runs upside down. At least the few times I’ve tested that function…. Lastly, I think that the L is usually referred to as the BRP (Big Red Pig), The R most definitely wears the “King of the Baja” title. Don’t let the “Pig” moniker dissuade you, that is only really when comparing it to an actual dirt bike! It’s a super capable ADV bike and dirt bike. Keep it light if on mostly dirt! No extended distance oversize tanks…. It changes the center of gravity too much (higher). It causes a push in the front end while cornering in dirt then, slams you to the ground hard! Just add a small rotopax to the back when you think you want more distance. The R is everything advertised as King of the Baja and then some…Times 10. Hope that helps and good riding with any choice you make.
I love the manual tripomiters having to wind till you get to 00000 👍
I do too! I just wish I could remember which way to turn them 🤣
i would never lower a bike, as long as you can reach with your tippytoes it is fine :) its gonna compromise its offroad capability's
I've always said the same thing! The XR has 12" of ground clearance though which is a solid 2" higher than any other bike I've ridden. While more is usually better, 10" has always been more than enough for my trails AND I'm fairly certain lowering the center of gravity along with the seat height, will improve the bike for 95% of the riding I'll do.
@@SwankyCatProductions that is a good point, but since you probably will be swwapping the seat out i would wait with lowering on the suspension, you are still messing with the geometry and rake when doing that, you could still use it as a harddualsport adv xD
Go with a 42 rear sprocket, hadn't seen a 16 front. Lowering link is a great mod
I've got a 16 from a sponsor that's supposed to fit, but it seems too big to me... guess we'll see! I can't wait to lower mine!!!
Higher octane fuel is less prone to detonation and in an air cooled bike on a really hot day, you're less likely to get pinging and pre ignition that you might have with 87 octane. Detonation can cause serious damage, especially when it happens repeatedly in an engine without knock sensors to retard timing.
Oh yeah, I suppose I should have known that haha. I remember hearing about detonation issues, but was thinking that was more on high performance stuff, but an air cooled 650 can certainly work up a sweat in the woods!
IMO, you really don't need to lower your bike. If you're doing it because you're finding yourself putting your foot down in the woods and not touching the ground, once you get used to the tall seat height, you won't fall over as much. Lowering changes the geometry of the bike and will make it handle funny in all sorts of ways. Touching the ground used to be a thing for me too until I learned that the less I try to touch the ground, the less I would fall over and that forward momentum is your friend on any bike.
Well said and I agree! The weight of my first KLR coupled with the seat height made me pretty uncomfortable until I got used to it. The XR is really fine for me since it's so much lighter and off road the height actually doesn't bother me at all. It's getting on and off at the gas stations and when I'm setting up cameras that bugs me the most. But the main reason I'm doing it is to see how it affects the handling. My much lower DR feels so much better on the road and on gravel, where the XR feels tall and uncomfortable. Lowering it will make it much less effective on an MX course, but that's less than 5% of my riding. So I figure it's at least worth a shot! If nothing else I'll be able to tell vertically challenged riders (like myself) if lowering it will really ruin, or maybe even improve the bike for ADV style riding.
Thanks Swanky..big 650 thumpers around 350 lbs are a blast..freeway work is possible BUT not really made for it..back roads and fire roads so good..I notice you ride way faster than us older geezers..MY DR650 always gives me a smile..putting along forest dirt roads is just the best..NICE XR BUILD.. 😃
Thank you!!! Yeah, I'm pretty excited about the 650s. I've always wanted something that I can ride fairly confidently on the hwy (when I really need to) and then still be able to rip down ANY trail I find!
Do you have a jet kit in honda at this time
Not yet! I'll be doing a performance upgrade video after all the heavy mods are in place.
Always great videos as well as informative. Maybe some day you will purchase a KTM 390 Adventure SW 2023+. I sold my T7 and purchased a 2023, what a huge difference in the fun factor compared to the T7. It appears the majority of the 390 owners downsized from much larger bikes and most, not all, feel the same way as I do. Keep the great content coming.
I think I'll probably try to get on one at some point. They've always intrigued me and I'm certainly finding that light is the way to go with the new crop of big bores I've got!
I'm 57 yrs old, and I can contest any onboard computer will just dumb us down . How about learning the true environment you're in . The woods tell you everything what's going on in the area . Most fire roads will lead you to an asphalt road . The problem starts when you start single tracking . The woods will even tell you what direction you're going if you observe the tree life . Or follow a river if you can . At least you will have a water source . Look for dead animals in the river for bacteria reasons . Let your bike computer solve that problem for ya . 😉
On the flip side, can tree lean tell you where a gas station is or more importantly a hospital?
Interesting. I'd definitely agree that we should be far better at reading the woods. But I've spent years doing just that. Most of the trails we ride are pretty well ingrained in my brain, not so much the lengths but definitely where they go and the type of terrain along the way. I rarely look at the trails on my maps unless I'm looking for something specific like a lake or feature visible on a satellite image. The biggest reason I like having a nav unit is for the public / private land boarder info.
How about just letting people ride however they like? We ride for different reasons. No need to police peoples preferences.
The trees can tell me if I'm on an Indian Reservation, Federal land or someone's private property l? Next week I'll talk to a tree and ask for directions to the closet ⛽😊
I’ve been looking for a video from you comparing the DRZ to the XR. Gets mentioned a lot but I can’t seem to find any more lengthy comparison if you discuss it in any of your vids. My DRZ is set up like you’re doing with the XR and I am considering switching to an XR for better highway manners if it’s a big difference. Lack of a taller 5th or 6th doesn’t suggest it would be that much more comfortable at speed.
I really need to get back in a DRZ, but from what I remember the XR feels like it definitely has the power I was missing above 55mph and cruises at hwy speeds much more comfortably (again from what I remember). I think the gears must just be spread a little farther apart on the XR and the bigger motor just has the extra thump you need. It's no 701 or T7, but I believe it'll be a noticeable improvement. I'd say try to test ride a DR and XR and see what you think!
Great video. What helmet was Jerry wearing?
Thank you!!! It's actually my old GMAX, here's and affiliate link to it on Amazon. amzn.to/4bDLwi7
I'm not a hater. I' been riding bikes since I was six years old. Last summer I camped off my bike for 4 months and 10,000 miles across the western U.S. I like this channel and appreciate other videos. Just lock the bead in the drop center with a bead buddy or a tire iron or two. It will go on like butter.. This is painful to watch. If this were a trailside repair in Death Valley or on a mountain pass in Colorado you'd be hitting the SOS on your beacon for a heli-rescue before you pass out from dehydration or freeze to death. I'm happy to see you check run out and doing a static balance. Brass No-Mar screw on wheel weights on spoked rims are the real deal. This isn't a street bike, you don't want your stick on wheel weights fall off in a muddy hill climb. Oh and switch to silicone spray for the tube instead of baby powder cornstarch. It's been amazing that I never get a pinch flat. Adam Riemann gave me the original suggestion. Credit to him and all his desert racing experience and willingness to share it with us in his KZread channel....
Wow man that's awesome! I wish I had the stamina for something like that. Your saying my bead wasn't down in the valley enough? Or just that locking one side in place and working the other way round will make it easier? Can you use the silicone spray for tire lubricant as well then? I appreciate the honesty and info!!!
Hey Dual Sport Fans, thanks for joining me for this test! If you're doing some shopping, please consider supporting my content though these affiliate links. It makes a huge difference for us! Rocky Mountain ATV: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/?ref=1042& Car Play Nav Unit: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-wireless-portable-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo?ref=pcoxoocl Amazon: amzn.to/3Jfbfkn MotoCampNerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=rAQ-OX06xBU2aq 10% Off First MotoCamp Purchase Code: SwankyCat
unfortunately we dont get the xr650l in australia discontinued about 2001 I think and it was available in a R model.
That's to bad! I wonder how long it'll be until they discontinue them here. They quit making the R here a while back I believe.
When I installed protaper bars on my tenere I tapped the bar and installed the stock bar extenders to give it enough control area. Bit of a pain the way the tenere controls take up so much space
Good idea! Yeah definitely annoying, but there are a few options to work around it.
It would be interesting to see if you can retrofit the fairing to a DR650.
Hmmm, yeah it would! I wonder how far off the brackets are...
@@SwankyCatProductions I have a DR and that would be interesting to see. Are the headlights the same size?.
Weight. Say no more
True!
Need swanky cat sticker, another great vid
Thank you!
Nice work setting up the new fairing and the ram mount with nav! Looks sharp and also really functional.
Thank you!!!
Appreciate the narration. Helpful. Thank you.
Glad to hear that, thanks!
I’ve heard you mention husky reliability on this video and others, have you ever experienced any issues on your 701?
Nope, zero issues with mine so far. The slave cylinder was upgraded by the previous owner though and I've not been able to put enough miles on it to say for sure either way. I think they're more reliable than a lot of people say, but I've seen more than a few in Facebook groups and for sale that have had engine issues. I'd say it's a higher percentage than I've seen on other bikes I've owned and researched. However, as I said at the end I think most people who buy one are going to ride it very differently than someone who buys a KLR for example. These are not bikes you put around on.
@@SwankyCatProductions yeah, I’ve had my 901 for a year and a half…I take it on everything from single track to the highway and couldn’t be happier. I’m on a few different forums and pages about different bikes, and there’s always people with an ax to grind…and I always try and recognize they are only telling part of the story. Nice work on your channel, appreciate the bikes you’ve chosen and the topics you explore…also very cool to be doing that with your Dad. Safe travels
Dude it's not too high off the ground you just haven't learned to ride with both feet on the foot pes in a full lock slide at 100 mph yet ...but the dr650 Suzuki will not do anything correct no matter what you do except it will run all day at 115 mph on the interstate if you can stay out of jail
Haha 😂 I'll work on that.
The XR 650 Sounds More Stout 🤷
Indeed!
All that matters is will it break down because of all that power to weight ratio.And no 72 is not more than double 40 as you claimed. Some strange math on that one there Buxko.
The majority of us may see it that way, but not everyone values reliability over performance. If they did, KTM & Husky would go out of business! Your correct, I did mistakenly say MORE than half the HP, rather then less, which is what I meant to say. However, 40hp vs 74hp is far closer to half, than it is two thirds. So I think, "about half" is fair to say?
You do not need the extra power.Extra power can come at a cost.The wrong cost .
Agreed, no one needs a 701. The DR & XR make way more sense. The 701 is a blast though!
I just traded my DR650 for a FE 501s. So far I love it so much more than the DR. Is it perfect, no but the 501 is awesome.
I might have to try one of them next!
I'm 250lbs without gear about 260 265 with gear the klr is under powered for my weight doing highway speeds. I really like my klr 650. If I was only cruising around at 80-90km this bike would be great all day long but unfortunately for where I'm going it's not enough power to move in a emergency on the highway.
I'm interested to see how my new bikes do with all my camp gear on the back. The KLR wasn't exactly comfortable for me on the highway either, but that was more because of the high speed wiggle.
Are those MSR pants good for hot weather riding?
With all the vents open and just the MSR base layer underneath, I run mine when it's in the low to mid 70s and sunny. Off road when your moving slow and working hard it can be too much with the coat. So I usually wear a long sleeve MX jersey under it, in case I need more air than the coat vents can provide. It does take a little getting used to, but after my accidents it's worth the trade off for me.
@SWANKY CAT you ever fin that ecm reflash you were talking about? Do anything with the fuel mixture at all?
Nope, two wheeled dyno works never came out with anything while I owned the KLR. I've heard there are other options for fuel adjustments but never invested the money to try them.
Those are some sweet looking trails! I'm envious. I'm inspired to go out and ride some back roads around here that are like those trails. Always a good ride when you get to go riding with your dad!
Nice! Get it man!!! They're pretty awesome. So thankful that I get to share them with my dad!