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Anyone owned Versys 300 and KLR?

14K views 12 replies 7 participants last post by  DPelletier 
#1 ·
I need a bike that can do two up on forest roads at potentially high altitudes, but mainly just hauls me commuting.

I had a 2009 KLR and really loved it. I also love the idea of the Versys 300. Wife and I sat on one and she thought it was roomy and comfortable.

I’m just worried about that 19” front wheel and the rake. I don’t want a bike that pushes the front off-road. But at the same time, I want the FI the Versys has that will make big altitude changes carefree.

Anyone been in this situation?
 
#4 ·
A Versys 300 probably has more peak horsepower than a KLR650, I know the Ninja 300 does. The Versys is re-tuned for more low & mid-range, but probably still has more peak HP than KLR650. The difference in torque is of more importance.

You will just need to use the 6 speed gearbox to allow the lower torque 300 twin cylinder to sing its song in a higher pitch. Once the engine is 'broken-in', let her Rev!
The little engine loves to sing.

Speaking of 'break-in' on the little engine, I'll suggest that you raise the rpm limit 500 rpm for every 50 miles traveled to get up to legal speed limit quicker.
A 4000 RPM rev limit for 500 miles is excruciatingly SLOW. Then they suggest a 6000 RPM limit for another 500 miles. I say BS, just work it up in steps.
 
#5 ·
Own KLR and buddy has Versy 300. Both great bikes, super versatile, but still polar opposites. The KLR is like a 4x4 pickup and the Versys is like a Honda Civic with all terrain tires. The KLR can do much more but it numbs your hands and feet on the highway, and that is no small matter if you have a long commute. If I drove more that 30 minutes every day I would get the Versys hands down. Otherwise I would get a KLR. Buy them both, the wife will take the Versys and you will have no say in the matter.
 
#7 ·
I had a versys x300, then went to an African twin, and now to my klr. The versys was great off road because of how little it was. Little in overall size, little power, little vibes. They really don't do torque, so you are constantly screaming it everywhere you go. After a while you get used to it until you pass a bicyclist at 50mph and 10,000rpm's. Then you think to yourself that you must sound like you're racing a motogp. I really liked the bike, but that many rpm's on a longer trip kinda wears on me. Sure wished they'd put the 400cc in it.
 
#8 ·
Hanz, I have been strongly tempted by those old stock Africa Twins too. Really beautiful bikes and at great pricing. Only 100 things stop me picking one up. Those are the 100 extra pounds and literally I do not think I could pick it up. And also when I ride my KLR to the bike stop I realize just how much I love riding that bike despite all its flaws and limitations. For 2 up and longer highway jaunts, I think the AT is a great choice, and you will be very happy. Good luck!
 
#11 ·
Hello Guys

Hanz I see you chose the Africa Twin, Please give us a report on it. That is a bit of a step up I'd say.

I was recently hit by a car while riding home from work. My bike may be a write off. I am still waiting to hear from my insurer. The other person's insurance has accepted 100% liability.

if they do write it off, then I have to decide if I will replace my KLR with another KLR or go another way. I am considering a DR650...
 
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