Advice, winter beater

Need some advice. My fleet consists of a mint 1982 CB900F and a mint 1999 VFR 800.

However, I winterize them and don't ride during the winter. I got to thinking that having a bike that is reliable, pretty fun to ride in general, could maybe handle gravel roads easily, and I could ride throughout the winter when the roads were pretty much dry without cringing when I got salt all over it would be cool.

I was limiting my search to Honda Transalps but it's been bit of a struggle finding one.

I am partial to Honda's but would consider opening up to other things. V-storms?

Any advice would be appreciated!

 

Anybody that I've talked to with a V-Strom is happy with it, including one guy that had a 1000 and now has a 650. He liked the 650 better; a bit smaller, lighter, etc.

 

Not a V engine but: KLR650.

 

good call on the KLR. Not sure I'd like a thumper but may check it out.

New Ducati Multistrada looks awesome! Wish I had the coin for that!

 

I've just finished setting my KLR up for winter riding. Heated grips, bar mitts, crash cage....Now I just need to pick up the firstgear thermo suit and I will be all set.
No complaints with the KLR, a lot cheaper than a V-strom too.

 

FWIW the KLR650 is very popular for dual sport riding here in Arizona. I know several people who have them, and swear by them. The VStrom also seem fairly popular.

 

I agree the v-strom 650 would be a good choice. I owned a DL1000 for a year and rode the 650 several times. The 650 is a better commuter, much better on gravel and very few, if any issues.
The 1000 has some FI and vibration/shutter problems, the stock gearing is too tall and the extra 50 pounds feels like it's all on top (top-heavy feel).

Good luck!

 

Here's something a little different, how about a Suzuki DRZ400S. If you get tired of the dual sport route just motard the thing. Super cheap used and bullet proof reliable.

 

Thanks for the great recommendations! I would have preferred to stick Honda but I am going to give the KLR and the Wee-Strom a good look. I do like the DRZ option and change that to a Motard if I get sick of the dual sport thing. I rode a Honda CRF motard. Needs more power. I hear the Yamaha WR250 Motard is pretty cool.

 

HONDA

2009 CRF230M - Honda Powersports <<--link

2009 XR650L - Honda Powersports <<--link