Small Dual Sport Bike Buyer's Guide | CRF300L, KLX300S, XT250, DR200SE, TW200, Trail125, CSC TT250
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.ค. 2024
- Small dual sport bikes are lighter, cheaper and handles better in the dirt. You can also tour on a small dual sport. In this video I compare the specifications and features of 7 small dual sport bikes that I am interested in buying.
For all the details, check out adventurebiketroop.com/smalld...
#DualSport #CRF300L #KLX300S
Price 3:33
Engine size 4:40
Power 5:05
Torque 5:19
Weight 5:30
Fuel tank size 6:21
Ground clearance 6:50
Seat height 7:31
Suspension travel 8:20
Compression ratio 9:01
Fuel system 9:32
Tire sizes 10:11
Brakes 11:08
Gearbox 11:44
CSC TT250 12:25
Honda Trail125 13:32
Suzuki DR200SE 14:03
Yamaha TW200 14:52
Yamaha XT250 15:26
Yamaha XT350 15:53
Honda CRF300L 16:08
Kawasaki KLX300S 16:35 - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
I took my MSF course on a TW200. I wanted my license because I wanted an Indian Scout, but all I can think about is getting a TW200. I spent 2 days on the TW200, and enjoyed every minute of it! Fast enough to ride around my town, and from what I can tell, a blast on some trails. Speed limit is 35mph within town limits. I'm saving up for one now.
I ride an Africa Twin the majority of the time. However I keep a TW200 around. Small, fun, ultra reliable. Its like a pack mule, geared low and just keep chugging no matter the terrain. Change the oil and filter and the air filter and they wont let you down. I have never really had any problems with my Japanese bikes and I appreciate that.
I agree.. Japanese reliability gives real peace of mind. I would not mind for an Africa Twin or T7. Maybe one day when my budget allows ;) For now, I'll plod along with the cheap stuff ;) Enjoy the AT and TW!
I bought a TT250 to get back into it, been 10 years. It's better quality than you might think, great job!
Thanks for the info! Hope you're enjoying the ride!
The TW200 is a mountain goat and will go more places than any of the other bikes.
Now, if they made it in a 350 it would be the perfect bike!
Exactly!! That’s why I just bought two of its cousins… the AG200 😬
@@GreaseAndGravel my country's recon troops use the AG200 too, but sadly they moved the bike course out of the recon school curriculum into the unit training doctrine, so I never had a chance to learn it in my unit which doesn't use motorbikes.
People always say that but there's nowhere it'll go an xt250 can't. Plus all the 250-300s will do it faster and funner lol
@@pfftwhut7638 The XT250 seems to be the best bike for what the maker of this video is looking for.
I'd say the strangest bike of the bunch is the Trail 125 being a semi auto 4-speed (no clutch) Not sure but I think the gears are even all down : (
Agreed 100%. Even so, I wouldn't trade my TW for anything (although I probably add to the stable).
Have been riding for decades, in my younger years I did not notice seat height that much, however now approaching 74 yrs. I like to come close to flat footing the ground. I am only 5' 8" with a 30" inseam. Last year I switched from a 2019 Honda CRF 250 L to a 2020 Yamaha XT 250 and very pleased with the difference for me. If I was over 6 foot with a much longer inseam the Honda would have been a good motorcycle . But it is close to 40 pounds heaver than the XT and I felt like most of that weight was carried high, really noticable when picking it up . The Japanese manufractured XT does seem to be of slightly higher quality than my Taiwanese built CFR, however both are excellent bikes. Just personal preferrence on my part but I perfer the air cooled engine. Really can not go wrong with either motorcycle if you can handle the extra weight and top heaviness of the Honda.
Thanks for the info, Gary. I really appreciate it. I hope I will still be riding at 74. I am currently 40 and the seat height already plays a role! I've dropped my XR a couple of times due to the height when riding in tights spots and I can feel it the next day when after picking it up again. I love the Yamaha. My first bike was an XT500.
Thanks, nice comment. I'm 77 and ride bicycles, road, gravel, fat tire and mountain, none of them well. We moved to Farmington NM 3 years ago and the fat tire works well for me in the sand, just kind of grind through. I was thinking that a motorcycle and we have lots of them here might allow me to see more country on rig roads, trails, etc. I'm 5' 10" and about 190 loaded. I have not ridden a motorcycle since 1995, two Harleys and in 1970 a Yamaha 125 Enduro which was really fun and light. Any suggestions for an old codger before I get to the wheelchair? Merry Christmas. Jim
@@jimjr4432 While waiting for an answer from ABT, I'd suggest the XT250. I've been riding dual-purpose bikes since my first Yamaha IT175 in '79
PS. We have a "Jim" in our older guys Dirt Bike group, who is also 77 years young.
I own a TW200 and there's nowhere I can't go. I'm a big dude too at 330lbs and it pulls me up steep gnarly hills in 1st and 2nd like a champ... It's like riding a mule on ANAVAR
I like that! thanks for sharing
All the 250-300s will do that for you too plus some
UGH!!! that poor motorbike!!!
I really like that Yamaha XT 250 ! It is perfect for “MY” needs ( just casual riding on dirt roads and two tracking trails / old logging roads for light weekend adventure. ) Simple design, air cooled , low maintenance, low seat height , yet fuel injected for reliability and dependability.
I ride the same type of places but am really looking at the TW200. I think the Trail 125 would be really fun too.
@@TheYarcob I love that Honda 125 Cub / Trail bike ! That thing is really capable beyond what I ever imagined. Dependable , rugged and low maintenance , all around practicality .
@@NorthwoodsNomad I did a quick calculation of the 5 (very well) used, dual-purpose bikes I currently own and the sum of them all, (here in South Africa, with our poor ZAR vs US$ exchange rate) in their original state of purchase (some high-milers, some unregistered, some needing refurbishing - but all were runners) cost less than the price of a NEW Honda 125 Monkey.
They are as follows:
2005 Yamaha XTZ125
2015 Honda XR150
2010 Zongshen ZSM200
1997 Honda XL400V TransAlp
2010 BMW F 800GS
The main reason for the quantity is that I do motorcycle rider training and offer mini adventure bike rides.
Hi, I have a XT 250. After 2 years and 9000 km I love and enjoying my Yamaha. It is light with a low seat hight.
They look like amazing bikes, especially if you are riding on and off road. The AG200 I bought is very slow, but amazing off road.
The DR200 was the bike I did my training course with. I loved that little thing and wished I could've taken it home with me! I currently have the CRF250L and love it one as well. In my opinion the 250L is NOT a small bike. It's a big bike with a little engine. Even so, it's handles itself well and will take you just about anywhere you could want to go!. The best dual sport is the one that you own so you can't go wrong with any of them! Just get out there an ride!
That last bit is SO true.. the best bike is the one you've got!! That's why I am sticking with the XR... same weight as the 300L Rally. But those DR200's... looks like an honest little machine
I bought a 2014 XT250 from my father who bought it new. It is such a great easy bike to use. Seems to be good overall and not excelling or lacking in any category. If I didn’t get a XT250, I would probably get a DR200 or see how the new KLX230 turns out. I love the simple air/oil cooled engines and light weight of those models.
I'd love a little DR200!
Hello from Texas! I' 58, 220lbs, 5-8", with 30" inseam, and was down to one bike: a '17 KTM 500, with Ohlins forks. Recently added a XT250, for the Wife & daughter to learn on. I was surprised to find how much fun it is to play on. A 14" Delkevic can woke it up, but I blew through most of the suspension just sitting on it, and it got less fun when I too easily found the hard bottom of the suspension. The 500 was hard to ride slow enough, with the Wife, and upgrading with new shock & fork springs/valves would've been ~$1200 USD, so with a family riding trip coming up, I started looking for another bike that would work for me, out of the box, aa well as having a bike for each of us to ride together. The KLX suspension has MUCH more hold up, for my weight, and is acceptable out of the box. Pulled the snorkel, drilled the rearmost can baffle, and she's breathing much better, with no need for fueling mods, or a loud can. Running ~ 19 psi front, and 15 psi rear, the stock tires did well on nearly 500 miles of NW chunky Arkansas hill climbs, descents, black top, and creek crossings, though I'll probably looking for something that'll last longer, when then wear out. Added a skid plate (now complete with battle scars), fat bars/riser clamps, hand guards, wider pegs, and didn't want to switch over to my 500 (for the type of riding up there), when we all went out together. Yes, the 500 will do some things better, but the KLX 300 is more comfortable for general backwoods explorations less vibes, softer ride, better road manners). I have a "low comfort" Seat Concepts seat on order, which will drop the seat height another 1". While the XT 250 is a blast, and has the same tractor like pull up hills, the KLX was a bit tall for the the girls. I looked at the used market, but with C19 demand, prices were too close to a new bike, if you could find one for sale. I put about 4x the miles on the KLX as I did the 500, and I'm considering selling the KTM. At my age, with my responsibilities, surgical repairs for play time injuries are too much of a hardship, for myself, and the Wife, so if I can reduce the chances of getting hurt, while enjoying the sport as much or more, I'm in. Due to low availability, and the onset of the trip, I paid more than what I wanted to for the KLX ($7250 w TT&L, OTD), but would do it again. I've really enjoyed my race type MX & woods bikes, but I've yet to find someone who disagrees with "More fun to ride a slow bike fast, than a fast bike slow" motto. The 500, properly uncorked and fueled, goes from stock 38 hp, to ~54 hp, is a handful, but the fact is is, I'll rarely use that much bike off road these days. I can afford any production bike I like at this point in life, but it's more about fun now, than all about more. ;)
Spreadsheet for the win! Great info!!
Thanks, I knew you'd appreciate that :)
I made a mistake myself, I bought a KTM390 I love the look and it can two up no problems and keep rolling at 70+ MPH. What I really wanted was TW200 or the XT250. I probably should have bought the XT250 as I would be riding that likely all the time, versus my KTM just sitting on my back patio collecting dust. I guess if I take a long trip the KTM will fair better but these smaller bikes sure look more fun.
Great data filled video. Thanks a lot.
Thanks for watching and making a comment :)
It’s an excellent topic and a great vid to discuss abiut. I, too, have a big bike - KLR. Been contemplating a smaller, similar bike myself. I’m 55. Ridden many years. But, falling hurts more than it used to ! I’m leaning to the new KLX. I train students on the TW’s. Rode it lots. Will go forever as you said. Dependable and parts galore ! Nice video !
Thank, I appreciate the comment. I have owned two KLRs. Awesome bikes and would love one again. But for playing in the dirt, there's 650s are too heavy to pick up each time you drop it. That new KLX looks like a fun bike. I like the quirkiness of the TWs and the fact that they are so simple. I totally agree on hurting more than it used to now 🤣
Hah! Same here. I'm 55 as well. My first brand new vehicle I ever bought was a 2001 KLR 650. It was amazing and I ran into hard times and was forced to sell it in 2005. Long story short, my current on/off road bike now is a 2018 TW200 and I love it. I live in the edge of the NJ Pine Barrens and it's a perfect bike for that. I have 3 other bikes that'll get me down the road faster than the TDub, so don't really care that it's a turtle on the road. Yeah, fall a little easier and harder these days too!
Love my Klr650, keeping for sure, but I do want another light weight dual sport.... great vid 👍
Thanks, Teddy! One bike is not enough 😉
I have an XT225 Serow (the older version of the XT250). Don’t quote me, but the 225 is lighter, slightly more powerful than the 250, and has a 6 speed transmission. Might be something to look into, I love mine!
I've read about amazing trips on the Serow's, but I don't think we got them here. It looks like a great option! Thanks
Thanks for the info
Cheers!
The same video that you spoke of sold me on the suzuki, an 07 for me. Love it. paid for a pro to upgrade springs and fork oil and a heavier spring rear. I'm around 200 with gear and it's now, to me, a solid ride with the ability to think you're flying until you look at the speedometer. Fitting it with easy bolt on modifications to make it fit me makes it comfortable and secondary road travel fits this bike perfectly. A biased review, this could be the last bike I buy.
Thanks for your feedback! Sounds like the perfect bike to have fun on. I rode my AG200 quite hard the other day. Man it is a lot of fun. I was pushing quite hard but going very slowly... lol.
@@GreaseAndGravel 47 tooth rear sprocket.
I currently own a CRF250L which I'v had sense 2014, and a an XT 225, which is my daughters bike, and back in the 70's I owned the precursor to the Honda Hunter Cub, that was a Honda trail 90. The CRF250 Is my adventure bike, the XT225, is my highly technical bike, and the trail 90 was just fun, and in those days it had a compound gear transmission, which gave it a 6 speed trans. The CRF is way more capable than most people are, but in really technical riding I drop it more than I like. I'm 5'10" with a 31" inseam, and, If when I have to stop, my foot goes into a low point, I often have to lay it down, and then get off, then pick it up. I'v put panniers, and a top box on it, and the extra power of the 300 would be nice. I get between 65mpg, to 70mpg, depending on the roads. The XT actually has more power than the Honda, but it's a carburateded, which I've never had a problem. Being old tech it tends to waist a lot more gas, 50 to 60mpg. Now the Hunter Cub will get the best milage, but at 45miles an hour your not going to get anywhere fast. CRF is the best for travel, and though not fast, if your capable it will get you anywhere you want to go. The XT is amazingly fun, being lower to the ground I can take her anywhere and get out without dropping her. Finally my old Trail 90 was also an amazingly fun bike, It too would go anywhere, with two up, just not fast, and if you got into trouble you could just pick it up , put it in your pocket, and walk away. The new XT's I believe are fuel injected, so milage and performance should have improved. Good luck, and are you based in South Africa?
Thanks for the comprehensive info, Pat. I really appreciate it and it is very useful info! I like the idea of the XT, as I currently mostly play around in the dirt. The best would probably be a smaller bike to play and something like a KLR to tour. Still cheaper than one new bike. And for fun, I'd like to tour on a Trail 125 one day. Will make a good story. Yes, I am in SA where the options are a lot more limited than the US.
I have the 300L and it has plenty of torque, the lower gears are designed for dirt and worthless on the road. On the road get into 4th as quickly as possible. But fifth is the all purpose gear on the road. In the dirt its a great bike, it goes and goes fast. The only difference between my twin engines and the 300L is it gets you fast quicker, hardly a downside and to be expected with a single cylinder. But have the speed and maneuverability on the 300L is great. I love it. It also survives the highway enough to get me to the dirt. The only thing I have to say about Honda is they provide a really cheap handlebar and a terrible kickstand but other than that a great bike.
Also had three xt250 and went every where on it great alrounder
I think the XT250 is probably the best balance between light weight off road and still some tarmac to get there. I might still get one someday. Thanks for sharing!
I have 2 DR200’s and I have owned 3 of them! It’s not the best at anything but not the worst at anything either. These are the main reasons I own these instead of any of the others!
1. Best fuel capacity because I like going far into the woods without having to worry about fuel.
2. Lightest weight easy to lift when dropped.
3. Proven bullet proof motorcycle and history.
4. Lowest seat height plant both feet on ground.
5. Simplistic design and very easy for me to work on.
6. Plenty of aftermarket parts available.
7. Easy to mod for better experience.
As I stated not the best at any of the performance specs but best on many of the things that matter to me. That’s why I chose this bike over all the others 3 times ;-)
Those are all the best reasons to choose a bike! I fully support getting two of them! 😁👊
I have a 2013Honda CRF250L and a 2013 Suzuki DR200. I love them both for different reasons. Mike is right on every point. The DR is such an easy riding bike. I bought used for 1/2 the price of the Honda. It’s a smaller and lighter bike 200lbs - easy to handle and will go anywhere. I bought it so my kids could learn on it, but I love it too. The CRF I bought new and don’t regret it for a minute. That thing has been rock solid. Other than fluid changes I haven’t done a thing to it. The CRF is a bigger sized bike and about 300lbs. I’m tall and the honda fits me fine, but it’s too big for my kids. I’ll ride it anywhere. If I want to get dirty though, the Suzuki is a blast - and my kids love it. No regrets on either.
I downsized from a Yamaha TT600 to a DR350S to a KLR 250 and now to a Beta Alp 200 and the Beta give me the most fun offroad climbing trials like technical trails. Bike of my dreams a Honda Montesa 4Ride or a Sherco/Scorpa T Ride.
I just checked out the Beta Alp 200... never seen one before. Looks like a great, light-weight bike.
I put 47,000 miles in 4 years on a tw200. You are spot on with pros and cons but change up the rear sprocket and you can cruise at 65 MPH with a wind screen and without a head wind or hill. :)
Yes!!! That's the comment I have been looking for. Now I just need a second hand TW at a reasonable price. Cheers
What did you change the rear sprocket to ???
@@davidheckart639 I changed mine to a 47 tooth rear sprocket and it's a perfect balance in my opinion. Way better at 65 mph.
@@justin________7477 Less engine buzz @ lower RPM's too.
I have a Hawk 250, which is a cheaper version of the CSC TT250. I have almost 10,000 miles on my Hawk, and yes, I’ve done many mods, but it has been very reliable. The TT250 is much better quality than my Hawk, so I’m sure it’s even more reliable. The TT250 Owners group also report the same.
I have an old school 2001 Yam.XT 350. I think it’s just a bored out XT 250. But it’s still a great bike and so much fun. A testament to Yamaha’s reliability!
I know Yamaha made an XT350 in the early 2000's for a short while... Does it have a dual carb and 6 speed gearbox?
@@GreaseAndGravel yes
@@johnnywishbone932 I am actually looking at possibly getting one myself.. if I can find a nice one. Are they very heavy?
@@GreaseAndGravel I really like it. As far as heavy goes, I don’t know I am a fairly strong guy.
The Yamaha XT 250 from 2008 on is a totally new bike from the 1980's model. I own this bike love this bike it does almost everything well enough and is fun to ride. Two complaints factory headlight is garbage and they shimmy at 60+mph. My understanding is that all goes away with a fork brace which are not expensive. You can find these around for next to nothing and mine has 27,000 miles on her. Had a Chinese bike that was practically given to me and yeah buy a used XT 250 nuff said.
Thanks for sharing. I love my little AG200s, but they are just a bit slow (50mph is about as fast as it will go). The XT sounds like the perfect little touring bike.
@@GreaseAndGravel 47 tooth rear sprocket 👍
Hi from Cape Town. Thanks for the awesome vid. I was wondering what you think of the XR125?
I’ve had a XT225 , a XT250 and now a X300 . The X300 is great on the road but because of my age , and my short height , I’m going back to the XT250 .
Thanks for the info! That is good to know!
Of the bikes on your list I like the XT250 and DR200SE. The Suzuki gets #1 because of the carburetor for me. The less electronics the better.
Yeah, I agree. The simpler the better!
I'm all about fuel injection. Carburetor is going back to steam engine.
Do you drive a car with carburetor, no air bags, no abs
I actually own both and the Yamaha is so much better they are not comparable.
well, you have a new sunscriber now. I'm in Sweden and I ride a 2020 Kawasaki KLX230. Actually, your videos are that interesting so I often forget to click on 'like'. So I find myself going back a page only to check if I clicked 'like', or not.
Thanks, Tomas! I appreciate the 'likes' but it is comments like this one that keeps me going when I don't feel like shooting a video. Thanks for the support! Cheers
Waiting here in the US for my CRF300L. Ordered January 22nd 2021, may not get until June...I did get my 2021 Trail 125 a couple weeks ago but that’s just to ride around the small village I live in. The 300 I plan on doing some serious adventure riding.
That sounds like a great combo to have in the garage! Enjoy!!
It's a lot more fun to ride a slow bike fast , than the other way around .
100%!!! This weekend I had to remove 12km worth of ribbons after a local trail run. It took nearly two hours in wet, slippery mud on my AG200. I felt like a rally racer, but never went over 40mph.
For a shorter rider like me (5'8'') the XT250 seems like the best one. Short seat height and all the specs otherwise seem to put it somewhere in the middle of the pack
It is a pity they are so expensive new... and hard to find second-hand (here, anyway). Looks like a great bike.
5'8 is not short, I wish I were 5'8 dude
Hey Francois, thanks for the video, I have the crf300l great bike.
Thanks for the comment, William. Yeah, the CRF300L looks like an awesome bike. I am trying to get hold of one to do a few videos on it.
@@GreaseAndGravel If your were in NZ you could use mine dude but it looks like you are in sunny SA.
@@WillPower46 Thanks, William! I appreciate it. But yes, it is a bit far 😁
I see that you only include the KLX300s, which I think compares to Honda's CRF300L. I'd like to advise you to try the KLX230, or as we know it here in Europe the "KLX230 ABS", as it has ABS brakes, unlike the MX version KLX230R. My personal experience since semptember 2020 when I bought it, has been pure joy. It is a bit weak on open roads, rarely does more than a 100 kmh (I weigh around 100 kg) but it's quiet and calm, and takes you a long distance with its 7,5 Liter tank. And it has a fuel guage.
Kawasaki is all around hard to beat cause the price for one and the bike looks really good plus it rides good and they last forever and you drive them more then you work on them witch is always a plus...
2008 Yamaha XT250 is a great small dual sport bike. I beat mine up and it keeps on ticking. It’s easy to throw around and plenty of power. Not a racer but well balanced and lightweight.
I think it's the perfect little adventure touring bike if you are not doing 1000's of miles on the highway.
i had tw200 and xt250 before ! xt250 is more enjoyable for me but since you get use to it you ll wish it would have more power !
XT225 is the winner. At 238lbs it's lighter than the lightest bike on your list (which is only a 125). It has a 6 speed transmission, so it very easily scoots along at 55mph (89kph) and can achieve 70mph (113kph), yet it still has an awesome 1st gear creeper gear for slow, rugged trail riding - especially when coupled with its excellent low-end torque.
It has comparable ground clearance to any of these bikes, same seat height as the XT250 (i.e. quite low so you can keep your feet planted on tough sections). The seat, while not luxurious, is much more thickly padded than almost any newer bike with their "2x4" wooden saddles. The suspension is somewhat primitive, but adequate for smaller riders and upgradeable for heavier people if need be.
It gets awesome gas mileage, so range is good, especially if you install the plastic 4.1 gallon Clarke tank available online for $250. It's air cooled, so no radiators to crush or get poked with sticks or boil over in slow sections. It's carbureted, so easy field serviceability and no complicated F/I system to break down or fix requiring fancy tools and knowledge.
I went through the exact process you just did and for the same reasons. I just bought my 2005 XT225 a few weeks ago and have been loving it on the rugged mountain trails here in Appalachia USA. It's everything I hoped it would be (my other bike is a WR450F).
I actually got an R1200GSA (just because I've always wanted to own it), but it is not nearly as fun as a small DS. I still want to get a small bike at some point for all the reasons you mentioned.
I just sold an 04 xt225 and bought an 06 XR650L. Couldn’t be happier. I also have an 81 Honda trail 110.
Thanks for the comment. I can imagine that the 650 is great if you want more power and speed. I am trying to go down as I want to ride harder without hurting myself 😂
@@GreaseAndGravel yeah if I had anywhere to take them off-road I’d rather have the smaller bike myself. But sadly we don’t have any trails for atvs or bikes. I live in Juneau Alaska we have more miles of hiking trails than roads but no trails to ride.
This took me forever to find but I believe this should be something to be considered when considering the Honda trail 125. This bike has the advanced fuel injection which many will love but you need to know this about this bike , it’s nothing like the bikes it came from and that was the Honda trail 90 and trail 110. Those bikes had the duel transmission which made them what people really liked about those bikes. I have one of each and I put the 125 and the 110 to a test on their ability to climb very steep trails and no matter how much I tried to get the 125 geared low enough to be able to climb very steep hills it couldn,t come close to do as well as the 110 trail bike. My family has a farm where there are some hills that have a very steep angles and I chose a hill that was at 65* degree angle climb in soft loose soil for an eighth of a mile climb and the 110 made it up 85% of the hill and the back tire was spinning the whole way up the hill and the only reason it didn,t make it was when I got to the 85% spot the rear tire got solid traction and the bike popped up and over on its side. The 125 never made it past the first 1/4 of the way up that hill. This may seem unimportant to most people now but when these bikes were very popular it was because of its ability to take you where no other bike can go . I will add that I have a Rokon 2x2 bike that couldn,t climb a hill that the 110 trail Honda was able to climb and this was when the Rokon was new.
Very disappointed. I realized that the Rokon has very special abilities that the other bikes could never do and there are so many I,m not going to mention them because that’s for another video.
Can't beat the TW200 in my opinion. It will get you wherever you want to go and put a smile on your face. Just don't be in a hurry or care about keeping up with the Jones'.
I love small, simple bikes!
I own a TW 200 and it rides perfect fine on road the downfall is in the front flat track style tire it loves washing out on dirt but overall I wouldn't buy another bike unless I plan on traveling lots of highway 🤷
Thanks for the heads-up. Looks like a fun bike!
How comfortable are the seats? Been wishing to find a small bike with a nice comfortable seat comparable to a four wheeler seat instead of the typical hard misshaped thin foam of most modern bikes.
TW front tire is called the " deathwing" instead of trailwing. Makes you crash in loose stuff.
Great comparison, I bought 2 KLX300s and there great for what they are.
Thanks, I appreciate it. Why did you get 2? Looks like a great bike!
@@GreaseAndGravel I got one for me and my girlfriend, I figure its a great bike for her to learn on and keep them around for long time as a mini adventure bike.
i have both a xr650L and an xt250 left in my garage sold some others including a yz450F mx bike i am a history buff so appreciate the longevity of production if you can go this route!!!!!!! best of trail riding and best of open road riding if i had to sell one first....for similar reasons you have elaborated on, i'd part with the XR soley based on my age , 54 honestly i feel cooler riding the xr but far less stressed out when doing ANYTHING on the xt advice for people whove owned neither or any 400-650 ds.....unless 90 percent road intended xt250 ALL DAY LONG 2013 or newer you will always find an xr if/ when you feel you want more power but the added riding responsiblities diminish the fun and ability to look around and lose focus for a minute or two
Just bought the SYM NH T200, it is more in the adventure category but seems to be a great option for a worthy light weight contender. What do you think?
I have had a XT225, a CRF250L, a DR650, and an Africa Twin (i single track it and took it on the MX track fun video) The CRF250L stock wise is a tame but very usable bike. I have a 29" inseam and it was manageable vs. my WR400F. The XT was great on single track but lacked poke for road use. The CRF is an AMAZING modding platform and I have raced one after mods and it performed well. The DR650 was passable in the dirt, a little uncomfortable on long street stints and a tad under-sprung. The ATwin is way out of the strike zone of your video. I have tried a KLX300 recently and would actually trade up my WR400F for it.
Wow, thanks for all the info! Sub'd (will check out your vids!). Wow, that is a nice fleet of bikes. I am flip-flopping around with the bikes. Since I can't own many at once, I will probably end up getting a different one every couple of months. Even had a look at a KTM500XC-W... I like all bikes, but want to try a smaller DS as I've never owned one.
@@GreaseAndGravel I don't have all those at once I guess best way to describe it is that I'm a bike flipper lol.
I have a 2009 yamaha xt250, just a blast on 2 wheels, top speed around 75mph, around 70-75 mpg, air cooled easy to maintain and operate. Mine is carberated where 2013 on are fuel injected
Sounds like a great bike! I kinda prefer carbs. Less to go wrong and if they do, easier to fix.
I bought a XT225 for my daughters about 15 yrs ago. I had a KLR650 which was way too heavy for the trails I like and do. I have ended up using the XT. It's a 1998 model and it still surprises me where it can go. It limitations seem to be my ability :) Here in Australia the KTMs are the cool bikes, put a good rider on them and they fly. I rode a WR 250 a couple of weeks ago, its a younger mans bike, its not happy going slow :) I love my XT, I don't know what I would replace it with, it's got a 6th gear and can get to a speed of 120kms with a tank I can get 200-250 kms out of. Your video was right up my alley but I see it was made 3 years ago, what did you end up buying?
Fantastic video! How do the manufactures adjust the suspension in order to make the lower versions? For example CRF300L and CRF300LS . Dog bones? pre load? Thank you. I have no idea!
Thanks for the comment! That is a good question. I also have no clue.
Got a TDub last week. Other ride is a cbr600 so we will see if the power is acceptable. Can already say I don’t love a carburetor. It’s 30-40 degrees right now but it seems very cold blooded,needs to warm up a lot. Only bike I really wanted. Gotta register it next week
Congrats! I struggled to find a TW and settled for an AG200 instead. Same engine. If you take it on some rough terrain you are gonna love it! Power is non-existent LOL.. Enjoy the bike!
In Europe, we get only one bike from your list: the CFR300. Additionally, there is a Kawasaki KLX230 as well, but this is way lower in all the specs. And at the moment, if you order the bike today, you can expect delivery mid-Spetmeber. If you'd like a bike for the current season, you need to have a look at the second-hand market or go for a hardcore enduro with all its maintenance requirements and high price.
Thanks for the info. Seems like every country is very different. We also don't have the KLX300 not the Trail125.
Just got a Qingqi qm200gy and this is a china copy of DR200SE but cheaper and only 16hp, suzuki and qingqi are working together and if not mistaken the engine is made in the same factory, most parts for the dr200 will fit just fine ;)
That's interesting, thanks for sharing! There are a lot of different levels of quality from China. Not all of them are bad.
I have the Honda 125CT and it is probably the greatest bike I've ever owned about many bikes I love the small size I love the fact that I have to work to make it go faster and I can run the full bore on everything and as it gets older I'll put the 164 big boy bore kid in it and make it even faster but they're very expensive I bought mine with 600 miles on it 2021 in black brand new condition is still cost me 6 grand they're very hard to get ahold of here in Florida and I hunted and I finally found a place that just got traded and bought it immediately and had to have it shipped from Miami to Ocala for $350 it was just cheaper that way than me running all the way up there to get the bike probably cost me another 50 75 bucks plus an entire day a driveI agree about driving a smaller bike how much fun they are and I think that in today's day and age you're fun to drive a $6000 bike even though it's probably worth you know 5000 but how much damage can you do when the whole bike is only 5 to 6 grand to a place
I bought a new ct125 took it one one long weekend backroads adventure camping trip . Got home and sold it and bought a used 2017 tw200 way more power off road than the ct 125 and tons more options for upgrades that actually do something for performance. I do have to say the ct125 fuel injection. Was nice though. Just not a lot of power for the size. I own a 1980 ct 110 it is way more capable that the new 125
An experienced rider will probably prefer the KLX or CFR because both those bikes are capable of going fairly fast over bumps due to the off road suspension. They aren't power houses like a dirt bike would be, but for most riders most of the time that just means you have to stay on the throttle more often for longer. You get used to it pretty quick. The TW on the other hand is great for riders who aren't interested in speed but instead are there for the adventure. It'll putt along through just about anything except deep mud, but it'll get further through that than any of the other bikes on the list. However, if you do want to go fast, the TW isn't for you. The suspension isn't up to it. The drum brake on the back is a bit of a downer too, but with the front disk and the maximum speed you are going to go on this sort of bike it isn't a significant riding issue. It'll buck you off before you are going fast enough to really need a rear disk. The front disk is a great improvement over the old front drum though. You'll notice that.
I have no experience with the TT but I can't see any advantage other than price. All the weight and seat height of a 650, but with the power of a 200? Why? Why not just keep the 650? At least the 650 has some real power when you want it. Too much for me, I find the big bores (450 & up) exhausting to ride. Too much torque, and too much down-braking. You never get a break.
I love each bike. The Honda 125 trail and TW 200 hold their own. I prefer the KLX 300 for many reasons. No matter, just ride.
I agree. I love most bikes!
Just traded my dr650 on a dr200se great 👍
I would love a DR200SE. I was actually looking for one, and then found two Yamaha AG200s instead. Then the very next day I see a good -looking DR200SE for sale. Just too late!
I’m all or the TW200, but to sell it to a experienced biker is hard by specs, you have to ride one for a weekend and then you will never go back, may have two bikes but never sell the tdub
I totally believe you. The specs will not do it justice. I am still keeping an eye out for a good one. Thanks for your comment!
I know you said low quality about the Chinese bike in the video but from what I've seen about the CSC/Zongshen TT250 it's quality seems pretty good...much better than a lot of the other cheap Amazon or whatever Chinese bikes you can buy (I'm thinking Tao Tao TBR7 here). CSC as a company also has an interesting business model and seems to provide owners a lot of support. The parts (literally every part) are readily available if you break something or want spares (like turn signals or mirrors as they're easy to break during a fall).
I wish they would add fuel injection and make it a 6 speed...but for a fairly basic bike that isn't going to require a lot of maintenance and expense it's kind of tough to beat. You should do some research about the Honda CG motor that they're using a cloned version of...developed by Honda for use in developing countries where bikes need to be tough, dual purpose and don't always get regular maintenance (and usually never from a dealer). The Zongshen engine is one of the only CG clones I've seen that has a counterbalancer as well.
I might sound like a CSC fanboy but honestly I don't own any of these so I'm unbiased. I've just been doing a lot of the same research you've done. Personally I'm between a Kawasaki KLX230 and the CSC TT250. Kawasaki is quite a bit more expensive but I like that it's fuel Injected and 6 speed...plus resale would likely be much easier and more retained value. That said I will be calling CSC to ask some questions in the near future and it might edge out the Kawasaki on initial purchase value.
Also, I owned a Yamaha XT250 for a few years, a fuel Injected model...never a problem but it wasn't tall enough for me and it struggled on-road. That bike really needed a 6th gear. I didn't know as much back then or I would've changed a sprocket to make the on-road riding a little better, without sacrificing much off-road. Hope you figure out which one is best for you!
Thanks, Scott for your views! I think we're on the same page! I have also seen that Chinese bikes are not all the same. Here is SA there was a company that imported Dayun's from China. My wife and I rode around SA (3600 miles in 19 days) on CG125 clones without any issues. Then we rode form Cape to Cairo (9630 miles in 90 days) on Suzuki GN250 (but 200cc) clones, again without issues. And the Dayun's were everywhere to be found all over Africa.
I've possibly got a DRZ400 lined up, but otherwise I might go for something smaller. The TW200 looks like fun... maybe I'll try that for a while.
I'd love to hear what you learn after phoning CSC. I like how they give all those DIY how-to vids to the owners. Imagine Honda or Kawa doing that!!
Cheers
Scott if you want a more on road worthy bike I would get the klx230 between the two as it has 20 hp and better gearing for more speed. But personally If your doing more on road riding you might look at getting a used klx250 , wr250r, crf250l or drz400
@@dustincookson5479 I ended up going a different direction and got a 2021 Honda CB500X. I don't really do that much off-road, more like gravel fire roads and such so I think the extra power and comfort will do well for my needs.
@@scotteger6271 sweet man. i hope you enjoy it!
Good overview vid with nice graphs.
Seems like everyone says the WR was the best - not in this vid - but expensive, hard to find, and tall? In absence of that, CRF seems beloved but as you said heavier, etc.
In the end, the XT225/250 keeps being that bike that gets B grades on everything but also as you mention light, reliable, etc. and so it rises to the top by being consistent and approachable. And that's why I keep watching vids like this, because while I'm just coming back to riding after a 20 year absence and just finished the 1st of my mandatory courses/tests in WA state, I keep looking at this bike as the way to have fun and get my practice in and still have a bike I'll want to use when heading off forest roads to go camp/hike.
For me, the bigger question is whether I will go with a Versys 300 instead just because my mix of riding is likely to end up being 75/25 on road/off road, and I don't expect to do any difficult trails..... But I could probably buy both used XT250 and used Ninja 300 for the price of a Versys 300. Decisions, decisions.
Great to hear you're getting back into riding. I also took a 7 year break after my daughter was born. I didn't even consider the WR as they are not street legal here in SA. But a WR and a Ninja should be the perfect combo! If you can only have one bike, the best is probably to go test ride each of the contenders on the road. All of the dual sports (KLX, CRF, XT, Versys) should be okay on easy dirt trails for camping.
Oh, please let me know what you decide! So many options!
Taxes/ fees ×2
@@GreaseAndGravel KLX suspension wins.
For what you ride personally I kind of like the TW 200. I’m 250 pounds so I’d rather have a TW 300 or 350 but they don’t make that yet😅. I’m a bit older though and I don’t think that that would be the best choice for you probably. I really like the CRF 300 but the seat is horribly uncomfortable and it’s still a little tall. I really wish they made the old XL line or something like it or made a mid range XR L series. One of my favorite bikes from the past was the 84 and 85 Honda XL 350. I was a lot heavier and sometimes we ride to up where I lived we had a lot of hills and where we would ride in the canyon we had sand in Sandy Hills and a 250 was easy and fun but it just bogged down too much and will get stuck all the time and on the long hill or when it’s too bumpy to get good momentum it wasn’t enough and you’d find yourself kind of scrambling and trying to push up with your feet. I was driving an XL 600 and had kind of the same feeling as you it was just a little too much power and a little too big. The XL 350 was a little lighter and I gave you a six speed transmission which gave you plenty of gears to put you right where you wanted to be. On the 600 you could just hold the throttle on and it would just get there because it had so much torque but it was really nice having those gear options on the 350s and even with two people or some gear or a big guy riding it had enough power to keep going uphill and through the sand without getting bogged down because of lack of power. They just don’t make those bikes anymore though. Just had a nice big seat it was a little more comfortable than the XR 650 L but still nice and wide like that just a little softer and you could write for three or four hours and the vibration will get to you way before the seat Everwood, it was just nice and comfortable. You have the CRF 304 50 and the calyx 300 but those 300s are kind of like a 250 to me they’re not quite enough power, I haven’t tried them over the last few years so maybe they’ve improved but I kind of doubt it and the DRC 450 is kind of the same deal it’s designed more like a motocross bike with a really hard seat tall and they ruined it by changing from the six speed to the five speed when they went from the 350 to the 400.
I like the TW 200 just because it’s kind of weird and it’s super easy to ride but it is a very slow pig for sure so I don’t think you’d be happy with that. I really like the XT 250 but though it’s comfortable it’s really simple air cool easy to work on and built really well it’s still the 250 with not enough power. The other manufactures don’t seem to care about Comfort anymore they’re just doing motocross bikes with street gearing and electronics and high maintenance intervals and all that stuff I don’t want nobody’s making the midsize bikes anymore. I’ll probably end up with a DRZ and buy a more comfortable seat but only because I’m not riding around a whole lot and spending a lot of hours writing and I’ll probably try to lower it a little. I’m not sure. If I lived somewhere where it was flat everywhere I would just get the XT 250 but I’m still over 250 pounds and Have hills. It’s hard to figure out what a perfect bike is for me because they don’t make them anymore. Something like the old XL or XT 350 with an electric start would be awesome and what I’d really want. They have the DR 350 SE which has an electric start but I had really soft suspensions and swing arm problems and a couple stupid little things with the motor that you can fix but you gotta pull it all apart to get inside and fix it and it’s a huge pain.
The DR 200 S I think it is better bike some people think it is. I’ve heard of a few people putting a better carburetor on it and actually winning races with the thing it’s still got a semi-comfortable seat but has OK clearance. I wouldn’t recommend it for a big rider but you don’t look too heavy. Lol. If I was short or very light that’s what I would consider though I still kind of like the XT 250 better but if I was going to do more dirt I think it’s easier to fix up the Suzuki, the one drawback would be the rear brake is a drum but a little tiny bikes drum brakes in the rear really aren’t that bad.
Oh I think I’ll probably get an XT 250 eventually and the good thing is right now these bikes are very popular so they’re expensive to buy but you can also drive them for six months and usually get all your money back or pretty close to it if you don’t thrash it. I’m just not sure it would be enough for you. I think you want a little more performance and if I were riding more like you I would probably be looking through the KLX 300 unless you’re looking for a rally then the CRF 300 rally edition but I think the calyx is a better bike for dirt but Hondas are always great as well.
Before you write off the TW see if you can find one that has a Shenko 241 front tire. It changes the whole riding dynamics especially on the street and it speed. The front tires they put on there are horrible and the bigger aftermarket replacements that are really wide are really heavy and they do OK off-road but the 241 is much lighter and Morse treatable and still does great off-road but a lot of people throw that on there and say it’s kind of like getting a whole new bike because all of a sudden handles very well.
It’s weird because I’m getting older now I also have problems with both knees and my back so my days of jumping and riding very hard trails we’re going very fast on the dirt are pretty much over. I used to love the technology I want the latest and greatest but now I think it’s just a huge headache that I don’t want to deal with. I’m thinking of what I’m gonna be riding for a long time as I get older and that makes the smaller bikes more appealing. I still wish they do an SR 350 L but I don’t think Honda even cares about that they’re just focusing on the CRF now no I love the TW I’m tall enough not to really worry about it I can get both toes on the ground with the XR 650 L and that’s pretty tall as you know though I’d like a little more power in twerk I’m kind of thinking about the XT 250 and a lot of people are going to think that’s kind of a wimpy choice but now and probably even more so as I get older the comfort being able to work on it myself the repairs being easy and it being very low maintenance easy to work on very comfortable very easy to ride with out even really thinking about it I think it’s a great choice among these and I’m just not riding as much dirt as I used to so it kind of edges out the TW there it’s just more practical on the street it’s a little faster but not crazy and it’s just a more realistic choice for commuting and just getting out and doing some rides in the dirt and gravel roads. TW is awesome but I think it’s just a little slow and a little too short, if I was shorter or thinner I would seriously consider it but I think for what I’m looking for the XT 250 is really only option in a new bike. I really like the idea of a DR 350 SE and I see a few of them around but they’re kind of at that age where you’re hitting that 22 year mark so I’m probably not gonna find one that I can just hop on and go I’m probably gonna have to terret down and make a huge project out of it with a frame off restoration which would be fun but I kind of just want something to ride it’s gonna be real easy that I’m not gonna have to worry about breaking down and that kind of leaves me with nothing but the XT 250 and the next Bikes I would consider from there are going to be a DR 6:50 the XR 650 or a KL are 650 because there’s just nothing in between and I just don’t want to pick up huge heavy bike. If I get an XT 250 with a decent rack on the back it’s gonna be a lot easier to pick up and I’ll miss the power but I think it’ll be a better fit. If I wanted something a little more capable there are options like the Cadillacs and the CRF but I’m just not that impressed with them and they’re not that easy and definitely not that comfortable. Oh and that yeah start looking at bikes like a Himalayan or the more street oriented scramblers because there’s just nothing else out there. I keep my fingers crossed hoping Yamaha will release an XT 350 but none of the manufacturers seem to really care about the more comfortable simple bikes anymore, they have to keep the TW and the KLR and the XR going because there’s a big demand for them and every time they try to cancel on the customers demand they bring them back but for A comfortable bike you got to spend some time on that’s not gonna be as tall and heavy is the XR I just see the XT 250 is the only choice but I still want a little more out of it I’d like a 350 with a little B for your suspension but they just don’t make those bikes anymore so you pretty much have to buy an old one and rebuild it
Wow, thanks for the long letter! :) I will definitely read all of it when I get a moment and respond. Thanks for taking the time!
Good video
Thanks, I appreciate it
i have had my 2007 dr200se for around 2 months now and so far no complants i commute on it daily and do some off road/trail riding on it and it feels great, its deffinetly not a fast bike but thats not why you buy a dr200 and it ca still do highway speeds when you need it to (i live in new zealand so highway speeds are 80-100kmph or around 50-60mph) rear brake hasent been an issue for me im not the most hardcore rider but for most situations both road and trail i dont think it would be an issue (atleast it hasent been for me) as for the weight of it i think its great very easy to monuver (im around 5.9" and around average fitness/strenth) ive stuffed up the landing of a jump on it and it ended up on my leg and i had no issues picked it up and kept riding. I assume you might have brought a bike now but thought i would leave a comment anyways since a lot of the people watching this video are probably in the market for a dual sport.
TW200 all the way, its my donkey that goes anywhere, even beaches with ease.
I'd love to own one someday
There are very good reasons why no so few people will sell you their Yamaha TW-200. If you ever rode one, you'd know why. And no, you can't buy mine... :)
Good point! One day I'd find one! For now, I bought two of its cousin (the AG200).
I migrated from a GS1200 to a T700 and an XT250 for my GFriend. The smaller the bike the more I enjoy it. Admittedly, the T700 is better on long distance and for packing more stuff and.. etc. Its a great bike. But for reasons I cannot fathom, the XT250 is my more frequent choice.
Im sure I would also enjoy the slightly more powerful CRF300, thou more people complain about its power than the XT250. Perhaps the XT has a better ratio match or lower expectations, but nobody complains about its power, and neither am I. But I would probably (if she lets me), trad the XT for a CRF.
Regarding reliability... Everything has pro's and conns. If you ride a Chinese bike or a KLR, you will soon learn to do a bunch of maintenance, but few of those are fatal. The XT250 (and Im guessing the CRF & DR200) require no technical skills. You can work for Microsoft and still keep your bike running, even when your PC require a rebuild.
I’ve had two XR 650ls. I now own the crf 300l. These bikes are miles apart in almost every aspect, especially weight. The 300 is approximately 308 wet, and the 650 is around 350lbs. I will never own a 650l again.
Please, let us know which one you decide on? I guest you like the Suzuki DR 200 the most. I am 62 years old and the XT work for me.
I would have loved a DR200, but couldn't find one in good condition. So I bought two Yamaha AG200s. They use the same engine as the TW200. Took it for a ride up a dry river bed and drowned it once, but got it running again. These bikes are amazing. I went places where I would never have gone on my XR. The XT seems like an awesome bike!
For what it’s worth… short, new rider here. Had a dr200. Now have a klx250. The dr200 is an under rated bike. They are the most readily available in my area and can be had for a reasonable price. Looking for a TW now, but they are hard to find, and the used ones are selling for a premium. For what I want to do, I gained no advantaged with the KLX.
Thanks for the info, that's very useful... here, the TWs also sell for crazy prices second-hand... and DR200s are almost non-existent. The DR does look like a great bike. Good luck finding that TW!
I found a 2009 dr200 with 1800 miles and in great condition. Is it worth $2500?
I come from Transalp 600 and since last year started riding TET here in UK I thought that alp is too much of a pig for that. It will do it but I am not good at it fall a lot and lift over 200kg is not a joy. I was thinking of something lighter like CRF300L but than look at the specs and I am not comfortable with so little hp. Transalp was 50hp when new and it does not feel like its too much so 27hp even if lighter does not convince me. I know that riding off road you dont need that much but I need to do some 100-140miles to get to off road. Couple of months ago I impulsively :) bought 2004 ktm 525 exc. I bought it as the price was right and oh my god I think when I sort out the "most uncomfortable seat I have ever put my ass on" issue and 8.5l tank issue my transalp will go for sale. I was trying it out on and off road and it does everything that transalp did - some better some worse. Not as stable at high speed but I can roll comfortable at 70mph all day and when overtaking there is still plenty (and I mean plenty) left. I dont ride it like madman as this will be my adventure bike. People always worried about maintenance intervals on those ktms, oil change takes 10 or 15min depend if you replacing filters. Everything is very accessible, its the easiest bike to work on I had till now. It is a bit wild when you roll the throttle too much but I am being careful and try not to hurt myself. I can recommend this to anyone who wants small, light bike with a tooth.
With regards to weight the crf300l feels much much lighter than the scale will let you think. Buy the crf300l or the KX those two are by far the best.
They are definitely is a different class than the rest of these bikes... just a bit more expensive too. That is good to know. On paper, the CRF300L Rally looks very heavy.
I would look for a XT 250. It is in the middle continuesly.
Klx 300 is my G.O.A.T.
If you ever get bored check out the European bikes. For some reason the manufactures give them a lot more options and sometimes the Japanese bikes have options like they have a TW 225 and a Honda was making a transalp 400 that looked kind of fun and they carried a lot of the mid range dual sports like the XL 350s for longer over there and America had the annex 650 which has a dual exhaust on pretty much the same engine as your XR but Europe got the dominators which looked a lot cooler except for the graphics and continued for more years and there are a lot of them out there just not in the US and I don’t know about Australia but most of them I see are in Europe or Japan and for some reason the UK gets a lot of bikes from Japan and Europe that I see on places that are selling used bikes. but it’s interesting I go to look for a specific bike and see all this stuff I’ve never seen before that we didn’t have an America and found that Europe just had a lot more they kept models running longer and they had models we can’t get here end it was kind of cool. I think it’s because in Europe motorcycles are more common as a transportation thing to wear in America we do have transportation bikes but it’s still more of a sort of sport and recreation thing especially with the dual sports but Europeans drive those as commuters.
I totally agree. You are spoilt for choice in Europe. Here in South Africa we got short-changed. A lot of dual sports (even the XR650L) was only available for a very short period of time, so second hand bikes are stupid expensive. Sometimes more than what they cost new 15 years ago.
@@GreaseAndGravel yup. In some places it’s understandable it sucks but it’s economics to set up large dealerships in a country that’s not going to sell many new bikes isn’t a great option for money making but I don’t understand the manufactures in some places where people spend ridiculous amounts of money like many places in America, people spend stupid amounts of money on stuff and they don’t make those models available I think it’s crazy. You have a huge market come a flood it. There are a lot of bikes I wanted, we had the Honda NX 650 for a few years and it was kind of square and not too great looking, in Europe they had the dominator and put better brakes on it they had much cooler body panels and fairings and they put a lot of them out there and they’re pretty awesome but I don’t have them here we would have to import them And the simple bikes they leave a lot of models out. The 250 is OK it’ll get you around but it’s not enough power to get a big person or two people or someone with a lot of luggage up the hill or through the sand 350 or 400 would do it but still be manageable power they don’t offer those anymore you got a buy the 650 or bigger for a comfortable bike. They have a couple small models left but the rest of the small models and slightly larger than small models are all designed after dirt bikes for motocross tracks, people don’t want to stand up all the time and it’s someplace like America people would be buying those up like crazy, a lot of Americans are fat in the 250s just not enough and a lot of Americans have stupid amounts of money that they throw away on ridiculous things. There are people that pay more in property tax and their cable bill than I spend on everything and I think the motorcycle industry is foolish for not bringing those products here and pushing them and pushing motorcycles in general. Some of it’s probably due to regulation on omissions by a bunch of corrupt politicians making things impossible or unprofitable but it sucks for whatever reason that we don’t have those models no matter what country do we live in and Europe uses motorcycles so I guess that’s why they get The better options on everything to get different color choices and they take a lot of the old models and keep them going over there with updates that the rest of us can’t get any more. :/ at this point I would rather buy an old bike and rebuild it but mainly because I can’t buy a new one that I like. I just wanna midsize comfortable easy air cooled dual purpose bike doesn’t have to be super high-performance or geared for hard-core off-road I just want something that will go off road and get me there be OK on the street and be comfortable and cheap to maintain and easy to work on that will last a long long time and they just don’t make those anymore come out the Yamaha XT 250 is really the only one out there that’s under 650 cc and they’re very hard to get because lots of people want them and there aren’t enough to go around, And I like it but I want an XT 350 or a 400 but the manufacturers just don’t care I guess or don’t listen to people because so many people I talk to you want pretty much the same thing where they get the other bikes and aren’t happy with them even though they paid a much more for them and are tired of the maintenance intervals and how hard they are to work on and fix and all the electronic crap that is eventually going to be a problem in a very expensive problem to fix. I don’t know I just wish they had those models and I would send them wherever people want them. Lol
I need to down grade from the 650L too. I weighed her, came out to 380 lbs (added some kit, was shocked the weight creeped up so high! The CRF300L is high on my list, the center of gravity seems lower than my 650L so maybe it will work. Not really sure. But the trick is to avoid loading it up with stuff (racks, steering dampeners, bark busters etc. - it all adds up)
Wow, that is quite heavy. I also prefer not to add a lot of accessories for the same reason. I am currently considering a swap for a DRZ400. Not much lighter, but the 27 lbs different is a start.
Tw 200 is a wonderful bike but the prices have raised here in SA
I know, people are asking R60k for a 2018/19
@@GreaseAndGravel yah it's insane
Same here in Cali, USA. Hard to find a reasonable used one
Anyone know what the most comfortable seat is? Seems to be a huge problem with modern dirt bikes. 09 KLR650 I had wasn't cushiony enough for me. Kind of like sitting on a hard board after an hour tops. Old bikes long ago had comfortable seats with springs and cushions so I've been waiting for a long time (decades) for someone to actually make a small Enduro with a nice comfy seat that's dirt capable. Anyone that has a clue if such exists I'd love to know about it.
I have a x300; the seat was like a brick. I took it to an upholsterer, told him what I wanted and now I’m happy ; cost $85 .
@@jimpiquette1375 wow, good to have that guy around. I put a wide aftermarket seat on my klr650 once and was still unhappy as it was so hard I still couldn't ride more than an hour. I'm the type that wants to go on 8 hr trips to the middle of nowhere down back roads. So I need a bike that'll go through the rough stuff but I'm not looking to be rough at the end of it. I keep wondering a lot between the 300l rally and xr650 honestly. Wish dealers weren't hours from me
You forgot the XT 225 anyone could ride it and it has a wide power band you can ride on the highway my dad is 250lbs and he can go like 70 on the highway it’s MSRP is 2500 for one in good condition this is my recommended dual Sport I am 11 years old and I ride it
Do they sell the KLX230 where you are? Man that would fit right in here. Maybe the best small dual sport for some people. Middle of the road size and weight, fuel injected, air cooled, 6 speed. I have a TW200, but the KLX230 would be better on road but still great off road. TW200 handles great on-road BTW, not weird at all if you replace front tire with a good one. Handles weird off road with that fat front tire, but rear tire seems to tractor over anything in any conditions. KLX300 would be great too, but on the tall side for shorter people.
Thanks for the info! I should have included the KLX230 instead of the 300. Would have made more sense. Unfortunately, they are not available here in SA. That's good to know about the TW on the road. I am liking the TW more and more the more I read up on it.
Oh man the 230's are all gathering dust on the showroom floors here (Philippines) as everyone just wants to get their hands on CRF's.
@@purdoy25 230 is just too heavy for the trails here i guess. I see that most settle in their 150's, klx/crf, then old 125 2ts.
I do love my TW200, but the KLX 300s would be the winner probably for your style of riding.
Thanks for the comment. Yeah, the TW would probably be a bit restrictive on the road
Beta Alp 200 - hold my beer (there is also a 350 too, both with DR engines). Unfortunately the last units have just been built.
Don't own a dualsport, but I think you should look at the 300 to 400cc range cause those other smaller bikes might be more of a downgrade in power than you want.
Thanks, man. Yes, I am considering the DRZ400 now too. But I am unsure how much weight I'll save. And the seat height is nearly the same as the XR. Maybe I am just itching for a different bike :)
I’ve been riding my 2019 Crf250l sold it to buy something more powerful was thinking of the crf300l but also of the Suzuki Dr650. My last 5 motorcycles have been fuel injected.Here’s my question do you think it’s a mistake to go back to a carbureted motorcycle?
no... if you dont mind a turning on/off a petcock and letting the bike sit a minute to warm up on choke then go for it. Personally Id go with a DRZ400 since its between those two... lighter than a 650 and more powerful than the 300l... better suspension than both bikes as well
I don't mind the carb. Some say it is better than EFI. If something goes wrong, it is simple to fix and if you drown the bike you can get it going again. The downside is cold starts etc... but I wouldn't worry about going back to carbs.
@Dustin I am still intrigued with the DRZ for the reasons you mention. I need to get my ass onto one.
Which has the least handle vibration driving down dirt roads and highway?
That's a good question! I think it will largely depend on the condition of the tires.
@@GreaseAndGravel I was kind of assuming all tires equal situation. Tires make so much difference it's hard to compare 2 of any bike if one has different tires since even the rubber compound difference can make a big difference vibration and grip wise.
The DR200SE, especially the face-lift model, could have benefitted substantially from more aggressive stock rubber from suzuki as well as a better aftermarket. Could have killed the 150/230 market with its street legality.
Personally I'd choose either the TW200 or DR200. Everything else just seems...too geared towards one thing or another.
From the comments, those two do seem like the best all rounders. Thanks for the comment.
Hi,
So what did you decide on?
Thanks
Thanks for asking. I am still looking for a second-hand TW200, but they are super expensive here. Funnily enough, I am considering an old Gen 1 KLR... Long story which I'll explain when it happens.
Almost better off buying a new tw unless you find a super deal or really want stock kick start
The Versys X300 falls in this category if you are including the small BMW. I ride in similar areas and get up to 4th gear and 40 miles per hour, off road. I have also been 600 miles round-trip on the highway. Goes where ya point it!
Good point, the Versys is a great bike! Thanks for sharing the info
I had a Versys for a year. The rock hard seat...(like sitting on a vinyl covered fence railing)... and the engine revving so high at normal road speeds was a huge turnoff so sent her packing.
@@bultacowally yeah, I had a cover that helped a little but I graduated on up to a Super Ténéré 1200 ES!
I'm looking for a bike to ride in the winter time in Canada. I'm leaning towards the trail 125 because the lower seat height, the very light weight, the low torque, and it has EFI and ABS on the front wheel. It seems after a tire swap it would be the best bike for the snow and ice
I wish they imported the Trail 125 to SA. I'd buy one today! Let me know what you decide.
@@GreaseAndGravel they don't sell them in Canada but you can get one from the US and import it to your country essentially
@@justauser I've thought about that, but with the ZAR-USD exchange rate, I'd be better off buying a T7!
TW200 LOOKS FUN AS HELL WITH THAT FAT BACK TIRE !!!!!!!!!!!!
I know!! I still need to have one some day :)
I own a xt 250 and a DR 200SE
The Yamaha has A LOT more power.
Suzuki is lying. The DR has probably 13HP.
The XT has EFI and a bigger engine, so it has to be quicker, right?
You might want to look at dr250r ok it's older but I love mine the dr200 is not an Ag bike rather than a dual sport
Ah, yes. I've not seen DR250R's locally. I actually don't mind an AG bike either. I've looked around and haven't found a well-priced small bike yet. Saw an NX250 today, but parts availability worry me.
My choice is the dr200
Looks like a great little bike!
I just got a CRF300L and put about 40 miles on it 80% road 10% dirt and 10% potholes haha. Rides really nicely on pavement and can still tackle rocky terrain. Definitely much more capable than my XR150L. It will tractor up steep climbs no problem with the really low 1st and 2nd gears and will cruise comfortably with the tall 6th gear at 60mph at only 6k rpm all day. I haven't dropped it so I don't know how heavy it is to pick up. The seat height doesn't feel tall at all as the soft suspension will sag halfway when I sit on it (I'm about 180cm/5'11", 32.5" inseam and 83kg with gear).
If I were to get a dedicated trail bike though I would choose the XT250. :)
Thanks for the comment and congrats on the CRF! I actually love the XR150Ls, but I can imagine the 300 is a big improvement. Enjoy the bike!
@@GreaseAndGravel Thanks! Yeah it is a huge improvement. Not even close haha. I just wish the CRF had better suspension.
I'm intrigued by the TW200, looks like a good small town commuter.
And they look like awesome fun in technical/rocky terrain... slow riding in the forest type thing... I just can't find one at a decent price.
I have a 2003 TW-200 ( not that the year matters, other than the color ) The front sprocket has been changed from a 14 tooth to a 15. It's not fast but it's fast enough around town and I've enjoyed exploring around town on it. Top speed on mine is about 65 MPH but I find it starts to feel uncomfortable over 50 MPH. I've taken it to the local cycle park, which has a lot of steep hill climbs. I haven't tried the biggest and gnarliest climbs but I've watched guys on dedicated dirt bikes be challeged on hills that I've easlily chugged up on my TW.
I love my little honda, but also wish I had the Yamaha XT250, I would have been a better choice, but the looks of my little red trail can not compare.😂
And also aklr 600
Lifan KPX 250 20HP 333 lb Seat 35.6 in