Dual Sport Bikes

[Darkhorseman11]

I have recently began looking into purchasing a Dual Sport bike for daily commute due to the unexpectedly high fuel mileage. I have seen bikes for around $4000 new that get an average of 60-70 mpg compared to my 93 Silverado running around 16 mpg. I have seen a few 2008 Yamaha XT250's on my local Craigslist page for around $2100 in good condition. I was wondering if anyone had any experiences with this bike as well as any major pros/cons of buying new vs. used. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
     Thanks,
            Alex

[tcdawg]

How far is your commute ?

That bike is small and underpowered. Unless your commute is less than 15 miles and not on the highway, you won't be comfortable.

[JROLIN]

Agreed. 250 four strokes are a bit of a turd unless your talking about a race bike.

Would look strongly at 400cc and up.

The seats are not very comfortable either.

[Darkhorseman11]

Do you have any recommendations on a better one? I will be commuting regularly between 8-20 highway (55-60mph) miles one way. I have never been into motorcycles so all talk regarding two stroke vs four stroke is like a foreign language to me. I am probably looking to get a used one due to the rather high cost of a new one.

[frenchlayer]

not enough top end on a 250 for that many hwy miles. You will be pegged out trying to maintain speed. You do want a 4 stroke, at least 400cc. I have a 250 ds, ok on side roads and such.

[tcdawg]

Budget: something like a Kawasaki KLR 650

A little more cash: KTM EXC 500

The real deal but even more money: BMW 650 or 800GS

[frenchlayer]

some nice husqvarna's on cl too

[Darkhorseman11]

How about a Honda XR650L? I saw one on Craigslist and have researched a little with mixed reviews.

[tcdawg]

How about a Honda XR650L? I saw one on Craigslist and have researched a little with mixed reviews.

That would do you well

[prjohnson]

That XR is a great bike if you're mostly riding street & light trails. Major con is It's a heavy bike for the tight stuff & if you drop it a few times on a trail, you'll be wore out.  Pros are they'd be better on the highway, plenty of parts & that engine is bulletproof. If you're looking at smaller bikes, you can drop some teeth in the rear sprocket to gain some speed, but you'll lose torque.
You won't find new two stokes for the street unless you're looking at scooters.

Have you considered a Supermoto?

[Darkhorseman11]

What is a supermoto? I am new to motorcycles. Basically i want something great on gas to commute with and just have fun with on the weekend. Also, are there any major benefits of buying new over used other than peace of mind?

[cru9]

Super motor is a dirt bike with sport bike wheels and tires. Lots of power. Light weight and easy to throw around in the turns. Not a commuter bike