Hi. This is my first post here.
I have owned a DR650 for the last 4 years, but am now considering getting a lighter bike. Something easier to ride in woods/ fields/dirt/mud. At 62 years old, I'm not racing or jumping, Just low speed puttering around. On road I need to be able to maintain 60mph for an hour or so.
Some bikes I'm looking in to:
XT 225
DR 200
TW 200
KE 100

Welcome!

Alexd

Hi Craig,

the XT225 is the perfect bike for you. Easy and cheap to service, great fuel economy, and will perform to your requirements.

They can cover serious, trouble free mileages and I've used my 225's (and 250's), to do the 200+ mile trip to London may times.

I find their comfort cruising speed in about 58mph and if you ride at 70mph for long periods, the bike can do it but there's a massive increase in the oil consumption.

Regards

Welcome!

Of your choices, I'd agree that the XT is the best option followed by the TW. And agree with Reggie's comments on speed. 55-60 is fine for extended periods. Push it up to 65 or higher and oil consumption goes way up.

Welcome to the site as a new USER. One HUGE perk with the XT is its durability and reliability. Simple old school 4 stoke. Reliability translates into safety too when trail riding. Meaning you want to be able to return "home". Parts for the bike are reasonably priced and readily available. Per this site, it's extremely well supported from owner/operators. The best place to get un-spun information. Good luck.

Me an't xt225 we's both a tad owd & wore out so we prefers an easier life, we cruises away at 50mph wit th'odd burst up to uz max, a terrifying 73mph. Bike's light as ballet dancer but t'nut on't seat is nigh on four bag o' cement. Wi yon ballet dancer on top I rec'ns twud roar on to 75mph, nae botha.

well finally I got my XT225. A 1992 with only 2,200 miles. I'll be giving it a cleaning and good going over tomorrow.

Good deal, Craig. Post some photos and let us know how she runs as you spend time with her!..

I'm sure there is a way to attach a pic of the bike, but I can find it. How do I attach a photo?

You have to use a photo hosting service, you can't attach photos in this forum. Imgur seems to be the free one of choice these days.

http://www.xt225.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=75509#Post75509