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DualSport PA
United States
เข้าร่วมเมื่อ 3 ก.ย. 2022
Checking out Pennsylvania’s road and trail resources for Dual Sport and ADV riders. State forest roads, trails, and the new BDR-X loop are coming his summer!
Everyday Adventures: Clear Shade Wild Area Gallitzin State Forest Dual Sport Motorcycles DRZ400
Adventure can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. For some it’s an epic cross-country trek across mountains and deserts, or maybe a months-long solo excursion off-grid.
There are also those of us who look for adventure in everyday life; where the simple exploration of something previously unknown brings joy to the soul.
This is a brief introduction to the Clear Shade Wild Area near Ogletown, Somerset County, PA.
Perched atop the eastern ridge of the Laurel Highlands is the Clear Shade Wild Area in Gallitzin State Forest. It’s 2800 acres of hardwood forest is home to white tailed deer, turkeys, bobcats and Pennsylvania black bear, just to name a few. The John P. Saylor Hiking Trail winds through the area, along with Clear Shade Creek and Cub Run - and while there is no single track, or even genuine two-track to ride, there is about ten miles of dirt road through the forest, linking up to what seems to be a network of gravel and backcountry blacktop through the wilds between US Route 30 and PA 56.
The roads in the Clear Shade Wild Area are less maintained than typical state park roads, with less stone and a bit more mud - at least right now. Nothing difficult, and any bike should make it through ok - but be prepared to slide around a bit, and those of you with “pretty bikes” may want to wash them up afterward.
The road crosses Clear Shade Creek in a couple spots, and follows Cub Run for a bit, and there are a few nice spots to stop just to explore on foot, but DO NOT take the bike on the hiking trails that loop through the area.
The road itself doesn’t exactly loop inside the Wild Area, unless you count the short jaunt on the paved road: Mount Carmel Drive. This is also the road that - if followed southwest, leads to fuel and snacks in nearby Cairnbrook or Central City.
The parking area can be found just east of Pot Ridge Road on Route 56 outside of Ogle Township - And the other end is accessed on Crum Road or Cub Run Road off Mt Carmel Drive on the Central City side.
I’ve posted the complete ride video separately without the commentary, and with chapter markers where each road begins. I’ve linked that video here: th-cam.com/video/ojQ2cRddwYA/w-d-xo.html.
Thanks for joining me for this little adventure! Be sure to subscribe to the channel for more looks at DualSport rides throughout the Keystone State, and check out my other videos.
Where do you ride when you’ve only got a couple hours? Be sure to let me know if there is a trail system or backroad that I should check out. I’m always on the lookout for my next adventure.
Till next time, take a word of advice from one of my personal heroes:
ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE!
www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateForests/FindAForest/Gallitzin/Pages/Wild_NaturalAreas.aspx
www.mountainridgeatvtrails.com/
Video content from vecteezy.com
www.vecteezy.com/members/t-photo
Some content used under the Fair Use Act.
Music Credits:
Music: www.bensound.com
"Adventure" License code: MQHN0GL8CG5IBEJE
"Sunny" License code: ADPMJACHUSXSCT1R
Suzuki DRZ DR-Z 400 dual sport motorcycle riding dirt road back road early spring adventure.
There are also those of us who look for adventure in everyday life; where the simple exploration of something previously unknown brings joy to the soul.
This is a brief introduction to the Clear Shade Wild Area near Ogletown, Somerset County, PA.
Perched atop the eastern ridge of the Laurel Highlands is the Clear Shade Wild Area in Gallitzin State Forest. It’s 2800 acres of hardwood forest is home to white tailed deer, turkeys, bobcats and Pennsylvania black bear, just to name a few. The John P. Saylor Hiking Trail winds through the area, along with Clear Shade Creek and Cub Run - and while there is no single track, or even genuine two-track to ride, there is about ten miles of dirt road through the forest, linking up to what seems to be a network of gravel and backcountry blacktop through the wilds between US Route 30 and PA 56.
The roads in the Clear Shade Wild Area are less maintained than typical state park roads, with less stone and a bit more mud - at least right now. Nothing difficult, and any bike should make it through ok - but be prepared to slide around a bit, and those of you with “pretty bikes” may want to wash them up afterward.
The road crosses Clear Shade Creek in a couple spots, and follows Cub Run for a bit, and there are a few nice spots to stop just to explore on foot, but DO NOT take the bike on the hiking trails that loop through the area.
The road itself doesn’t exactly loop inside the Wild Area, unless you count the short jaunt on the paved road: Mount Carmel Drive. This is also the road that - if followed southwest, leads to fuel and snacks in nearby Cairnbrook or Central City.
The parking area can be found just east of Pot Ridge Road on Route 56 outside of Ogle Township - And the other end is accessed on Crum Road or Cub Run Road off Mt Carmel Drive on the Central City side.
I’ve posted the complete ride video separately without the commentary, and with chapter markers where each road begins. I’ve linked that video here: th-cam.com/video/ojQ2cRddwYA/w-d-xo.html.
Thanks for joining me for this little adventure! Be sure to subscribe to the channel for more looks at DualSport rides throughout the Keystone State, and check out my other videos.
Where do you ride when you’ve only got a couple hours? Be sure to let me know if there is a trail system or backroad that I should check out. I’m always on the lookout for my next adventure.
Till next time, take a word of advice from one of my personal heroes:
ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE!
www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateForests/FindAForest/Gallitzin/Pages/Wild_NaturalAreas.aspx
www.mountainridgeatvtrails.com/
Video content from vecteezy.com
www.vecteezy.com/members/t-photo
Some content used under the Fair Use Act.
Music Credits:
Music: www.bensound.com
"Adventure" License code: MQHN0GL8CG5IBEJE
"Sunny" License code: ADPMJACHUSXSCT1R
Suzuki DRZ DR-Z 400 dual sport motorcycle riding dirt road back road early spring adventure.
มุมมอง: 359
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Dual Sport PA Early Season Ride Through Clear Shade Wild Area Gallitzin State Forest DR-Z400s
มุมมอง 226ปีที่แล้ว
Early March 2023 ride through Clear Shade Wild Area in Gallitzin State Forest, Windber PA. Clear Shade Rd, Crum Rd, Mt. Carmel Dr, Cub Run Rd. Suzuki DR-Z400s Dual Sport Motorcycle FPV GoPro 00:00 PA Rt 56 00:29 Clear Shade Rd. 07:07 Crum Rd. 11:49 Crum Rd. @ Cub Run Rd. 16:58 Mt. Carmel Dr. 17:19 Crum Rd. (Return) 21:12 Cub Run Rd. 26:17 Mt. Carmel Dr.
Big Guy on a Little Dual Sport Motorcycle: Does Size Matter? Opinions on TW200 XT225 DRZ-400 WR450f
มุมมอง 23Kปีที่แล้ว
Smaller dual sports like Yamaha’s TW and XT are for beginner riders and smaller riders, right? Maybe not! Smaller bikes are light and maneuverable, and can be a ton of fun on the trail, even when things get technical. But what about for a larger rider? Should bigger guys look for a 400, 450, or even a 650 trail bike? After a comment from a viewer of my DRZ/WR comparison, I decided to ask my fri...
Marienville Trails, Allegheny National Forest: Where To Stay for ATV UTV OHV Dual Sport Motorcycles
มุมมอง 2.4Kปีที่แล้ว
There are places in this world that are so beautiful as to take your breath away; where the accommodations are so lush, so luxurious, that you scarcely want to even leave your room. This is not one of those places. Sure, the scenery is beautiful here, but the Forest Lodge and Campground is ALL ABOUT getting out and enjoying the outdoors. Located on PA Route 66 Northeast of Marienville Pennsylva...
Suzuki DR-Z 400S vs. Yamaha WR 450F Riding Impressions Comparison
มุมมอง 20Kปีที่แล้ว
So what was it that drew YOU in to DualSport or Adventure riding? For me, it was my buddy Chaz, tossing me the keys to his Dual-Sport-ed WR450f to attend a weekend road and trail rally with my teenage son. Now I wasn’t exactly new to off-road riding. I had had some dirt bikes and even an old KE100 “enduro” as a kid, and several street bikes over the years, but this was the first big-bore off-ro...
My drz400s with stage 1 cams fcr39mx and yz jetting NCVQ needle. Quarter throttle brings the front vertical first thru third gear
I recently completed the airbox mod and JD Jet installation, and have noticed a significant improvement in throttle response. I’ll be riding a DR-Z with a pumper carb later this summer, and am interested in comparing them.
The FCR39 mil pumper carb is the trick. I had a 2000 DRZ K model (Enduro without the electric starter). That carb and a pipe (FMF Q) was an awesome combination. Great torque too and a very usable wide power output. Easily over 40 HP in that configuration and a very fun trail bike. Keep it out of race pace, and it will put a smile on your face.
Best bike I ever owned except for highway gimme my Harley . Everything else I take the tw .
Dude says he feels like a circus bear on his motorcycle because he is a circus bear on a motorcycle. One word GOOFBALL!!!
I hope some day you have a friend who is as great a man as Andrew. You have no idea.
Odd comparison for a couple reasons 1) the WR is no longer available (except used of course). 2) the WR is not street legal without adding the turn signals, mirrors etc. I think a much better comparison would be the DRZ400S to the Honda CRF450RL. My buddy got a great deal on a very lightly used DRZ400S with all the good mods (JD Jetting, Acerbis hand guards, rear tail rack, RevTEC shock, all the engine protection guards, etc.) Unfortunately, I am the fool who talked him into getting it and I should have bought it myself. After he bought it, I found a (lightly) used stock Honda CRF450RL. I had to sink about $1,700 in accessories to make it really rideable (AiM ECU, Seat Concepts Comfort XL, Acerbis hand guards, rear rack, G2 throttle tamer, etc). I rode my buddies DRZ and he rode my CRF. Honestly, I liked the DRZ better. I preferred the CRF suspension and the 6th gear, but the tractability of the DRZ and smooth power application was perfect. What a great bike.
Sounds like a great comparison, and a bike I’d love to ride, but the WR was the one that originally got me thinking about getting my own bike in the first place. If you’re up for a Western Pennsylvania trail ride sometime, I’d be happy to do the CRF comparison video with you!
As a big guy pushing 300 lbs with a 30" inseam, I find the DRZ400s to be a good fit, especially after lowering the back end 1" and firming up the suspension dampening a little.
"Does size matter". Wildly original. uggh
Thank you for sharing your comments! We value your opinions and will be sure to consider them when making our next video!
boomers
I do not think that means what you think it means.
Interesting discusssion. I've been riding a KTM 250 EXCF for 8 or 9 years and I've just got rid of it and got an XT225. The power of the KTM is great fun and it weighs about the same - but I'm doing a five day mountain ride in June in the Pyrenees, wild camping, and we've got to carry something like 60 litres/25kg of kit each. I'm expecting to drop the bike and pick it up a lot - and be getting on and off a lot so I was attracted by low seat height as I've also got a little hip injury that sometimes is ok but other times isn't. About 12 years ago I started trail-riding on an XL185 - which is closer in power to the XT. My friends were faster but I was only ever about 90 seconds behind and having just as much fun and I know for a fact that if I'd started on a more powerful bike I would actually have been much slower. The more powerful bikes are intimidating. They can spin you out with both power and torque and the DRZ is pretty heavy if you have to keep picking it up. I was never scared of my bike but the KTMs can bite you. As a result you are scared to open the throttle. I think your advice is sound but you didn't state it explicitly enough - if you are starting out - start on a small, low-powered bike that you can pick up easily and fall off without hurting yourself too much (always wear the armour still though). You will learn SO much faster on it than if you buy a bigger more powerful bike hoping you won't have to upgrade later and it will be more fun. Riding a bike that's even just a tiny bit too much for your skill level actually becomes stressful rather than fun whereas wishing your bike went a tiny bit faster at times is still a lot of fun and no stress whatsoever.
I’ve experienced a few bikes that have made me better. I had a close encounter with a KDX420 as a teen that taught me to respect the throttle. A Cannondale C440 was a big part of my maturation as a rider, as it took my basic skills and added a need for restraint. My friend Chaz had shared his WR450f with me on several occasions in the past, and I was one of the first to ride his YZ490 “ditch-digger” years ago. All of these machines were an absolute blast to ride, and exhilarating - to say the least. There’s just something about these smaller, less aggressive dual sports that that’s just good, clean fun. They don’t require restraint. They put a huge smile on your face. There may be a little less adrenaline involved, but that only means that you’re less exhausted at the end of the day. There is less finesse involved in the throttle hand, even if there may be a bit more demanded from the (lack of) suspension. Thanks for watching and commenting. Enjoy your new ride! Let us know how your trip goes this summer!
Love this! I just came from watching a video where a stubborn old man carries an elaborate Z-drag system he rigs to a tree to lift his heavy BMW when it falls over rather than admit a 250 makes more sense. I appreciate people who appreciate small bikes. Honestly, they are not just easier to maintain and own they are more fun to ride off road.
100% Agree! I admire the big bikes, and the guys who choose to take them on the trail, but there’s something about the smaller dual-sports that takes me back to a simpler time when all I had to do was ride!
Handlebar risers on the TW make a world of difference on the TW. My wife didn't need them, but on mine, man! they helped a ton!! Great camp bike!!
AGREED! Risers can make the biggest difference in fitting - and even handling - of an off-road bike.
Very good show guys! I really enjoyed the conversation. You guys know your stuff.
Thanks for the kind words! Chaz and I enjoyed the ride, and always have fun talking through our adventures at the end of the day. More comparison videos are in the works, so check back soon!
These are the exact 2 bikes I am considering, great video fellas.
Thanks for the kind words! Do keep in mind that the WR in this video is an older model, and I’m told that the newer one is a different animal altogether.
I'm a farmer, 58 years old, 6'5" 210 lbs. Need a bike to travel between fields, 5-10 miles on the road at most. Need something easy to get on and off, stopping often for checking crops, soil sampling, etc. Narrowing it down to a TW200 or KLX230. Lower first gear would be good. What are your thoughts?
The TW is widely known as an “agricultural” motorcycle. It is small, lightweight and maneuverable, with tank-like stability. It’s a little tractor of a bike. I can’t speak directly to the KLX, but I’m sure it’s plenty capable. It should be noted that it is a much more modern design than the T-Dub, with fuel injection and more electronic doo-dads. To give you an idea of TW gearing, I’m pasting a forum post below from TW200forum.com: Stock gearing of 14tooth CS sprocket and 50tooth rear sprocket, 1st gear, idle is at approx. 1300rpm. Here is your speed based on RPM; 1800rpm=4mph 2700rpm=6mph 3600rpm=8mph 4500rpm=10mph 5400rpm=12mph 6300rpm=14mph 7200rpm=16mph 8100rpm=18mph 9000rpm=20mph Top speed in 5th gear @9000rpm is 69.7mph Those who prefer a lower 1st gear usually swap out the rear sprocket for a 55 tooth rear sprocket. Here's your speed based on RPM with a 14tooth CS sprocket and 55tooth rear sprocket; 1800=3.7 2700=5.5 3600=7.3 4500=9.2 5400=11 6300=12.9 7200=14.7 8100=16.5 9000=18.4 Top speed in 5th is 63.4mph If you want a lower crawl speed, then a 13tooth CS sprocket in conjunction with a 55 tooth rear sprocket gets you these speeds; 1800=3.4 2700=5.1 3600=6.8 4500=8.5 5400=10.2 6300=11.9 7200=13.6 8100=15.4 9000=17.1 Top seed in 5th is 58.8mph See the whole thread at: www.tw200forum.com/threads/how-slow-can-you-go-in-1st-gear.69869/ Thanks for checking in, and let us know what you decide!
Great video, thanks for posting it. I'm about your guys age, 6'2", 165lbs with a very similar background (minibikes, SL70, JT60, SL90, F7 175 Kawasaki, CR250, RM500 etc). After not riding off road for many years, I now have a WR450F. I love the power, but riding on trails in Eastern Tennessee and some of the steep rocky ravine filled trails, it's a bit of a handful. It's tall even for me (34" inseam). Also, and this is a special requirement I now have, I want to be able to load the bike onto a carrier on the back of my van and travel cross country out to Colorado and California to go exploring trails out there while living out of my van. But also street capable for riding into towns and occasional highway use if needed in special circumstances (like if the van breaks down and I need to go get help). So the XT225 caught my eye based on my research, but also the TW200 and other bikes like the XL200 or XR200. I am concerned they may be too small for me. But after watching this, it seems Andrew is about my height and much heavier and he seems well pleased with the stature of these bikes. I have heard the legs can be cramped for guys our size and it forces your feet to be dangled downward on the pegs, making you feel or actually be more vulnerable to catching your feet on rocks. Do you think that's true? Based on my description of what I'm looking for, what would you choose? I just want to be able to easily load and unload on the back of my van, drive on roads in and around mountain towns out west seeking out trails and then go explore those trails and then ride back to my campsite afterwards. I'm liking the XT225 and TW, but have never ridden one or even sat on one. Hoping to get your perspective on it.
There is SO MUCH to unpack here! First of all, thanks for reaching out. Andrew and I still enjoy exploring this topic, and perhaps it’s time for a “how to choose a little bike” video? In our little riding group we’ve got several TWs, an XT250, several XT225s, a DR200, both vintage and modern CTs (90 and 125) and an XR200. Each of us has spent some time on all of these bikes - and plenty of larger bikes for comparison. One of us (I’ll let him tell his own story) DID break his foot riding a little bike, but some basic precautions could have prevented this. The short answer to your question is ANY of these bikes would be a lot of fun, and easy to transport, but the full truth is that each one has specific strengths, and can fit one rider better than another. One example is that the XT250 has great power delivery and a super-low range that allows it to walk through almost any conditions you’re likely to come across - BUT it has the smallest cockpit of any of these machines, and could feel pretty cramped for a larger rider if you’re going to be in the saddle for any length of time. The older XT, the DR and the XR all feel larger by comparison. The CTs are great fun, but a heavy rider can bend the pegs in the rough stuff. The nice thing is that any of these machines is likely to hold its value very well, particularly if you buy it right, and can be resold if you find something that fits you better. Or keep it, and invite a friend to come along! I’m going to start production of the comparison video I’ve been considering. I’ll be sure to include Andrew’s perspective!
Yeah, dangling feet could be an issue. Something to be aware for sure 🤪 but being aware and wearing the correct footwear goes. Long way to not catch your toes (I did mangle my foot a few years ago). That said, it does not matter what you are riding. You still need to take the same precautions. You probably just need to find a way to ride some smaller bikes to find out if it is for you.
DRZ has less engine braking because it has a carburetor. Fuel injected bikes have more engine braking especially if using a fuel cut at closed throttle.
This particular WR is also carbureted, but with a pumper carb, compared to the mild-mannered CV carb on the DR-S. I think Chaz is on to something with his flywheel theory.
I had the opportunity to ride an 08 WR450 a few years ago. I'm an experienced off-roader in southern New England where the trails are tight with rocks and gnar everywhere. The WR450 had beastly power, the first time I hit the powerband it literally launched me from one side of the trail to the other. Luckily there was dead fall along the side of the trail that made a berm which I caught and somehow kept the bike from shooting into the trees. It was a great bike but I knew it was nothing I wanted to manage(or maintain) as my own bike. For our trails I've ridden mostly 250cc 2T Husky & KTM enduro bikes which are perfect for the riding I was doing here. This year I decided its time to ease up on the pounding single track and move to dual-sport riding. I picked up a 2020 DRz400s earlier this month and damn the thing is a hoot to ride and it will go anywhere. My favorite thing is the DRz's engine and power delivery but bike as a whole is just good. The previous owner did the 3x3 mod with an MRD Z-Pro exhaust(I had to install the quiet baffle), it feels like its got the right amount of power but never surprising or dangerous. I'm really looking forward to exploring and maybe doing some rallies with this bike.
Thanks for sharing! Enjoy that new DR-Z, and welcome to the club!
I own two Cannondale E440 Enduros, one dual sported runner and the other was stored almost twenty years in a barn with supposedly 100 miles on it. Im getting parts before running that one. Impeller, aluminum valve cover etc. Anyway, I thought your comments on being involved with Cannondale (complex, poorly mapped, and unreliable, my words) and your desires for simplicity and reliable low maintenance was interesting, maybe there's a video there? Did the Cannondale traumatize this man?
I’d love to do something together - especially if it involves the incredible, if somewhat troubled, Cannondale E440.
Yall see any hoes out there?
Ive just brought a 2023 wr250f street legal here in new Zealand great bike to learn on for the road ive ridden for 45 years on the dirt my next choice will be eather the wr450f because it's so lite or a tenera world Raid
The 250f is an awesome package of suspension and light weight tied to a remarkably-powerful 250cc engine. The 450f is an upgrade for sure, but will feel big and heavy by comparison. You won’t believe the power difference - it’s available anywhere on the RPM scale. I haven’t ridden the Tenere, but have been thinking that it will be my choice if I ever go looking for a long-distance adventure tourer. Thanks for watching, and sharing what you’re riding!
So big guys should get a small bike?
So big guys don’t necessarily NEED to ride a BIG bike. The smaller (200-250) dual-sports can be a blast for riders of every size!
It’s not an adventure, till something goes wrong 😉
I’d call that a misadventure.
I ran into two big guys riding T-Dubs yesterday in Renovo, PA, and they couldn’t say enough great things about them!
Low maintenance? I immediately thought 2-stroke. Good bikes for trail riding and/or competitive off-road racing? KDX 200. If you *have to ride on road, just add a mirror and some turn signals. A proper enduro bike will smoke a dual sport on the trails all day. Loved hearing you guys talk about your riding experiences. Looking forward to more.
I have owned exactly one two-stroke bike in my life, and that was almost 40 years ago. Chaz is the guy who will rebuild a top end with no sweat - but the mere thought of that pushed me to four strokes right away. As it turns out, much of my riding this season has been between trails on the DR-Z (a video about that coming soon), so it’s probably best that I’m not laying down pavement miles on a 2-stroke bike. There may come a day when I purchase another, but it will be in addition to my beloved DR-Z. We appreciate your comment, and are glad that you enjoyed the video!
I’m 6’1” 190#, and my Tdub is excellent-especially with aftermarket fork springs from Progressive Suspension.
Gotta love the Mighty T-Dub. A bike for all seasons.
I'm on the husky side myself. I haven't owned a motorcycle since I was in my early teens. That was an 80cc CR80. I'm looking to get back into motorcycling. I'm interested in the KLX 300 and the CRF450RL. I want to know which would be better for me.
Hi, David. Thanks for checking in! You’ve asked a really broad question, with no definitive answer, but I’ll give you some food for thought: The two machines you’re comparing are VERY different, with totally different personalities. The KLX will likely feel more approachable and forgiving, while the CRF will probably be a bit on the wilder side. Suspension on the Honda is more robust, with more adjustments available, but this is likely to make the most difference for more aggressive riders. KLX has a shorter wheelbase and steeper rake, which should make it a bit more nimble and maneuverable. I’ve ridden a KLX with custom fuel map and aftermarket pipe, and it has plenty of power for road or trail, regardless of your size. I’m betting the CRF feels like a bigger bike, although I’ve never ridden one personally. The only other observation I’d make is the $4,000 price difference makes the green one quite a bit more attractive to me. That’s a lot of upgrades and accessories - and good protective gear should be a top priority whatever bike you choose. Let us know what you decide!
I'm 22 years old 6'3 and 290. I'm new to riding but my bike is a 14 CRF250L and I do a lot of rocky trail riding because of where I live. I'm in the stock 250l suspension (preload all the way up) and I have never bottomed out my 250L riding. The one thing I noticed was that if you are a big guy. Suzuki and Honda are almost always going to fit you better than Yamaha or Kawasaki.
Thanks for sharing that, Chris! Every manufacturer makes their bikes to fit a range of rider sizes, but some do seem to lean toward one direction or the other. The DR200 seems a bit less cramped than the TW200, and the XT250 feels very small compared to either of those. Any of them is perfectly capable of carrying a full-size rider, and can be a ton of fun on the trails.
... Thanks for the video. Really enjoyed is and I subscribed w/a bell. I'm down here in MD. looking for some 2 track or single tract to ride. Maybe I need to drive up to PA. I know Green Ridge has some trails. I raced Motocross, Hare Scrambles, Enduros and a 100 mile series in the 70's and 80's. Stopped in 1985. Marriage, mortgage, kids, etc. All those chapters have been closed now. All were great. New chapter- On 5-31-23 I bought a 2021 Honda 300 Rally with 1944 miles and a LOT of upgrades already installed including Rally Raid suspension front and back. Also just bought boots, the Alpine Stars Tech 7 w.Drystar. Can't wait to try them. So looking forward to getting back on some dirt. Any suggestions? Ride well, . Jeff .
I’m not familiar with much of Maryland, but a friend has recommended Wolf Den Run State Park for its trails and facilities. Check it out, and let us know what you think. dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/Wolf-Den-Run.aspx Enjoy the new bike, and be sure to check in if you ever find yourself riding on this side of the border!
@@dualsportpa ... Thanks. Looked up Wolf Den . It is about 4 hours from me out in western MD. I've also been searching the MABDR. Thank you, Jeff
5'11" 235lbs with some gear and backpack. I just picked up a 2023 KLX300sm about a month ago and hit 81 on the highway this morning coming into work. That's after dropping a tooth on the front sprocket to have more get up and go for zipping around through the chaotic city traffic. Love this bike but I wouldn't want to go any smaller for road use. Trail riding I use 85 KLR250. Dropped two teeth in the front and went up two teeth on the rear. A few other cheap mods with carb and suspension. I can pop over logs and get the front tire up through the sandy Michigan trails without picking up too much speed for my skill level. Have lots more to learn on the trails.
A small bike is a great learning tool. I took a TT-R125 on a group ride with guys riding 350 and 400-class bikes this weekend, and had an absolute blast!
Wow I've sorely under estimated the TWs
Most people do. Happy is the man who realizes this while he is still young.
I really appreciate this video. As a big fatty 6'5" 280lbs I didn't think the DRZ would be enough for me, but now I know I'll be fine
We’re glad you enjoyed it! Be sure to also check out my “Big Guy on a Little Dual Sport” video: Does Size Matter? Opinions on TW200 XT225 DRZ-400 WR450f th-cam.com/video/WWPoDdGrnws/w-d-xo.html
A big guy is someone 6’3” and 250 of lean muscle. A fat guy is..,well, fat. There’s a world of difference, on and off the bike.
Any thoughts on how that difference affects the ability of a small bike to carry that rider on a trail?
100%. There are a lot of body muscles that go into moving and maneuvering a motorcycle especially off road at slower speeds. Especially your core and legs. A "big" guy with muscle tone and mass will maneuver a bike 100% different than a "fat" guy in the same conditions. Not saying the "fat" guy cannot ride it, he will just have different challenges. The bike you 100% move you. But can it hold you? Will the frame support you? Will the suspension be comfortable and functional? These are the real talking points.
on rock and gravel under 4000 feet I will say get a 250 . loos sand and higher elevation a 350 /400cc even for long trips.. never a 750 / 1200cc. , pick up and you will know why.
Great points - sand and altitude will rob some power.
Looks awesome, does the Cabin have A/C?
Yes, the cabin does have heat and A/C. forestlodgecampground.com/
im 6'7" on a kawakaki versys x300, but ride what you want.
Ride what you want, ride what you like, ride what moves you… But don’t think that you need large displacement just because you’re a bigger guy.
@@dualsportpa this 300 is twice the size of my second moto (150cc scoot) and quite larger than my first (125cc Sanyang clutch bike)
Great video guys! I have a KLX450R and almost all of what you said about the WR is relatable - particularly the stock torture device Kawasaki calls a seat! But I love having the hooligan on tap when I need it and the suspension is spot on. Won’t be changing it for a DRZ any time soon!😁👊
Thanks for the kind words, and for sharing your experience. I’m trying not to encourage my inner-hooligan too much, so the DR-Z suits me just fine. That said, I can understand the appeal of instant power on tap.
The tw and 225 will go anywhere, right off thru the woods/making trails.....
I’m 6’4” 285 and I have a Honda CRF250L. The stock rear spring was too soft for my size so I upgraded to a bigger spring. Just did it and haven’t ridden it off road yet. Really enjoyed this video and Andy.
We’re glad you’ve enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing about your CRF. Let us know how you like the new spring!
i live in AZ i ride a ttr125cc i am 511 230 and i have a blast i like wiping a small bikes !
Small bikes rock!
small bike life !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am a big guy and have been riding yz450'5 and wr450's and also loved my ttr225 i had for beginners to try their hand in learning to ride. Some just gave me a tw200 ladt week and looking forward to getting out on it. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for sharing! Enjoy your T-Dub!
If everybody calls you Tubby don't get a tw200.
What bike would you recommend for a larger rider?
Maybe if you are a fat body you should decide against a tw200
What bike would you recommend for a larger rider?
If you have to drag clutch while revving to redline to take off you are to fat bike is to small. If you are naked and look down and your belly sticks out farther than your dickey do, stay off bikes period, and go on a diet
An interesting discussion; power vs handling against the terrain. The quest of every motorcyclist. A moving target to be sure... You guys are on to something here, A couple of years from 80 and I'm still enjoying game.
Thanks for the comment. We’re glad you enjoyed the video! Any tips for middle-aged riders who want to continue enjoying the sport into their 70’s and 80’s?
I am 6’3 thinking about the royal Enfield classic 300 or Honda 125 trail gotta travel a little bit of gravel road. OK may be a bit more. and some trails. having a hard time deciding……
The Classic 350 looks like a great bike - albeit not what most would consider a dual-sport. The Trail 125 is a ton of fun, but I’m not personally drawn to the automatic clutch. Whichever you choose, enjoy the ride!
@@dualsportpa my wife has the ruling vote she really likes the scram 411... go figure...lol, I totally agree the automatic is a bit of a downer... And the classic is pushing it a little bit for the bush...lol in saying that I've watch those Himalayan mountain videos they put those bikes through hell...lol, I think the scram is a compromise between the two.... great video
In this case, I’d have to agree with the wife.
I am 60 years old been rideing beat up old dirtbikes my whole life..I'm 6 foot 230 lbs....I want a brand new ct125..my friends say I'm too big for it but I luv the little honda and I think it will serve me well as a bike for back roads and zipping around the city....
A friend of mine (200+ lb) has a CT125, and has ridden both road and trail with it. It’s surprisingly capable, and a ton of fun. It’s not going to win races or crush a hard enduro, but it will get you through the trail with a smile on your face!
@dualsportpa at my age I just want to finish the race..
I'm 5'10, 265 pounds and ride a T-Dub. Fun bike!
Thanks for sharing! The TW is a ton of fun for kids of all ages and sizes!
A dr 200 fits well in this category,no speed demon but climbs like mountain goat.
@@jeffflorence594 After this video was shot, I acquired a DR200s. Andrew and I have both ridden it, and will be doing a comparison video soon.
The only issues I know of are overloading suspension parts. Some of the imports have a 150, to 175 lb. weight rating. Not suitable for offroad uses, that's too close to a failure point with anyone.
All true, and Andrew addresses this in the video. At the same time, these machines are engineered to withstand specific stresses, which are likely more than a casual rider - even a large one - is likely to surpass. Aggressive off-road riding CERTAINLY puts these components into the danger zone, particularly with a heavier rider.
what part of pa are you from. I'm centre co.
I’m in Centre County occasionally, but spend most of my time in Blair and Bedford Counties.
If Yamaha would bring back the XT350 with the TW200 tires, 6 speed wide ratio trans and fuel injection I'd buy 2 straight away. I LOVE the TW200, just outgrew the power and the bikes a bit small for me ergonomically anymore. I will always adore the TW200 though, what a legend of a bike.
Lots of us would like to see them bring back some classics. The XT350 and XR400R come to mind!
You and me both! I ❤ my T-Dub!
They cant because of emission standards and 350 sales in asia arent good dude to lisence rules and 350 are too small for us market.
@@BlackwaterAquatics 😮💨