Compare the 650F to a 600F4i. The F4i is better in every way. And they are cheap. Buy an 04-06 banana seat model. Spend the saved money on rebuilding the front end since they are sprung for a 90lbs rider. Enjoy the extra HP, way better brakes, and lighter weight with much better suspension.
You might want to hold on a little bit. I've heard rumors that Honda has some tricks up their sleeve in the next 12-24 months.
I can heartily recommend the Suzuki VStrom 650 as a good, reliable and fun way to experience the countryside. Surprised it hasn't gotten any love in this thread thus far.
Vote for the VFR. It's heavier than most options, but dead reliable and plenty of space for luggage and gear. I've done a 900 mile day no issues. I have a 97 VFR750 that I'd love to sell on the cheap. Body is rough, levers are bent, but it runs and its all there. I probably have a bunch of spares for it somewhere too.
I had an ‘03 - it hurt my bony ass after a while. D did change the shocks changed on it if I recall correctly. But at this point, I don’t think 30 pounds is gonna make a difference. I look like an uncooked spaghetti noodle these days. I just want comfort.
Absolutely, that’s why the target date is so far out. Just want some ideas on my ride and start mapping out my quest with any down time I have. I should be able to put a really nice trip together by then - and if I have to furlough it, I will. I’ve learned way too many lessons in the past 3 years - one of them being: Planning and doing are two vastly different actions. But having goals in life is what keeps ya moving forward.
This. Three years from now, it will be a used bike. https://powersports.honda.com/street/adventure/nc750x
That's why I suggested it. Seriously. It's a Honda and it's an adventure bike. This means you'll get reliability, some wind protection and all-around capability...canyons, highway, city, unimproved roads, ad nauseam. Seat height is 32". Three years from now, there will be a used one somewhere that fits your budget. In the mean time, ride whatever you don't want to be sitting on for 8 hours a day.
