33bhp Enduro/DualSport/Trail

Spurs19 · Derestricted Danger Joined: 19 Sep 2009 Karma :

Had this in the new bikers section but after seeing this I think it would be better off in here as there was little response. Basically I have just passed my test and am looking to buy a enduro/trial/dual sport (not really sure what it should be called) bike. I would be on the restricted 33bhp licence. I currently have a Honda XR 125 L and I really like it, it is just a bit lacking on larger roads.

So could anyone recommend a similar type of bike which could preferably be capapble of about 70mph not flat out. I was looking to spen £800-£1k, but obviously the cheaper the better. Age etc doesn't really bother me as long as it runs ok. Oh and would really like it to be a 4-stroke and don't mind getting a bigger bike restricted so it falls within the legal limit for my license.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Alex_H · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 28 Jul 2009 Karma :

hiya mate,

You've got quite a bit of choice really. A dr350 falls within the 33bhp thing and is a great bike, will do over 80 just about and lasts forever on fuel. Would be within your 1k limit too.

I know you said 4 stroke, but also a kmx200 is within the 33bhp thing and is quite a good machine if you can find a well looked after one.

Also, next on my list might be an xr250, jap spec one with leccy start if you can find one, which is pretty much as good as the dr350 just a bit slower.

If I think of any more I'll let you know lol
____________________
1998 r1, ccm 644 ds, 2000 r6 ghetto track bike

G · The Voice of Reason Joined: 02 Feb 2002 Karma :

If you're going to be using it on the road a fair bit, I'd look at a XR400 or consider the DRZ400S - stick it on a dyno I'd be willing to bet it's under 33hp... worst case it'd be very easy to drop the power slightly as it would be very close.

A DR600 is similar sort of power and definitely worth a look. Kick start only, though.

What sort of off-road, if any, do you plan to do?

Incidentally, enduro and dual sport are about 'right' terms (enduro towards the light/extreme end, dual-sport towards the heavy/road biased end), 'trials' is a totally different type of bike. 'Trail' however would also be appropriate.

Irezumi aka Reuben · Carrot Top Joined: 28 Sep 2004 Karma :

The Suzuki DRZ-S makes more than 33bhp. Generally around mid-high 30's on a dyno as an average.

There is a restrictor kit that is used for the DRZ-SM which I think will fit straight on to the DRZ-S. DRZ is probably the most up to date bike out of those mentioned.

Any bike that you look at of this sort with that power will be beggining to struggle if not be flat out at around 70mph.

Spurs19 · Derestricted Danger Joined: 19 Sep 2009 Karma :

Thanks for the responses. A few good choices there, I will take a look around at those suggested.

Off road wise, I have done very little in the past but it is something that seems very appealing to me so would like to be able to do it when possible. However it is not of massive importance and would probably only account for about 10% of the bikes use.

Thanks for help with the terms, I find it a bit confusing as to the differences between them all so good to have it cleared up a little.

Imonster · World Chat Champion Joined: 18 Oct 2006 Karma :

TTR250? Leccy start and six speed box so isn't revvy at 70...

Damn, shouldn't reccomend one's own bike in threads like these...erm, older DRZ400 should have had a coupla ponies escape by now so should be legal for ya? Very Happy

G · The Voice of Reason Joined: 02 Feb 2002 Karma :

Note that number of gears often doesn't correlate to the range of the gears. For instance my 690 has six gears while the similar BMW G650 has five, but the BMWs gears spread a wider range.

I believe the TTR is known for having a quite flexible gearbox, however.

Spurs19 · Derestricted Danger Joined: 19 Sep 2009 Karma :

Picked up a 2000 Suzuki DR-Z 400 SY today for £1000. Seems like it has been looked after really well and has some good extras such as sump guard and frame protectors.

https://static4.freeads.net/img/400x400/de79e8e26093b957d32e3cbb2d9440b29c687b1c.jpg

Now I just need to get it tested to see what power its putting out. Thanks for all suggestions/advice by the way.

Oh and does anyone know where you could get a replacement steering lock key?

Imonster · World Chat Champion Joined: 18 Oct 2006 Karma :

Good work with the bike, looks good - why do you want a key for the steering lock? They can be broken in seconds...

Hazylogic · World Chat Champion Joined: 22 Feb 2009 Karma :

That is sweet. I'm restricted too, and I was after a drz, but nothing in my area. Went for an xlr250 as that was the next best thing.

enjoy!

Spurs19 · Derestricted Danger Joined: 19 Sep 2009 Karma :

Cheers man, yeah I love it!!. Got it dyno'd and it was under 33bhp so i'm good to go. Can't wipe the smile off my face while riding it!! I'm sure the novelty will wear eventually but at the moment i'm loving it!!