After a 21 year run as one of the most popular dual-sport mounts available the Kawasaki KLR650 has been upgraded for 2008 in several key areas to make it an even more attractive alternative for both on and off-road touring fun.

At 386 lbs. the KLR is a big fat pig. They redesigned the faulty idler shaft lever ("doohicky") but it will still need to be replaced by roughly 8,000 miles. Many '08 KLR owners are reporting excessive oil consumption issues. The KLR is a decent bike at a good price, but I decided shell out the extra $2,000 and go with the Husky TE610. It's 80 lbs. lighter, fuel injected, far more dirt-worthy, and actually has a 6th gear.

TE is a great bike---until it breaks something. Keep your banker on speed dial to pay for parts, and be prpared to wait long periods of time for those parts.