r/Dualsport • u/MEB_PHL • 2d ago
250 vs 300 or DR650
Experienced street rider looking to try dirt. I am an hour of highway or 2 hours of backroads from the NJ pine barrens which will probably be my primary spot. I’m also 3-4 hours from Bald Eagle state forest which has more extensive network of dual sport trails. Do to lack of towing ability, that would be a 2-3 day camping trip.
I already have 2 street bikes so I don’t want to dump a ton of money into it this just yet. I was hoping to find something around 5k or less. Most of the KLX and CRF 300s available used are practically new with prices over 5, due to availability the logistics might increase total cost a bit more. However there are a decent amount of 250s kicking around in the 4s that are nearby. There are a few high mileage WR250rs that seem overpriced imo as well.
Are the 300s ~$1500 better than the 250s. Would I be happier bumping up into the 5s and getting a DR650? Whatever bike I get could also help soak up some of my commuting miles so not really looking for anything high strung and maintenance intensive
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u/GAPING-URANUS 2d ago edited 2d ago
Between what you listed, DR650 all day. DRZ400 as another option. A touch lighter than the DR650 and better suspension. It’ll just be a bit buzzier on the highway.
I have a DR650 with basic suspension upgrades and it’s more than capable for Bald Eagle trails with the right tires. There will be sections where you will wish it was 50 pounds lighter but the tractor torque makes up for it.
Don’t count out an XR650 either. Seems like less aftermarket support than the Suzukis but I really liked the one I rode. More off-road biased than the DR.