KLX250 or KLR650 for the Dempster?
 

Hi, all.

I have both the KLR650 and the KLX250. I think for the actual Dempster highway, the 250 would be nice to have. It is the ride from Ontario to the highway that I am unsure of.

I am completely fine taking my time and going slow, so I am wondering if the 250 would be up to the task. I have toured with the 650 in the past (the Trans Labrador Highway), so I think I would like to try out the smaller bike this time.

Is slabbing the little 250 for a long distance too hard on the engine?

Any words of wisdom would be appreciated.

Thanks!

I haven't personally ridden it, but spoke to a lot of people in cars / suvs / campers that have. It is a highway, not a single track. I 'd go with the KLR650 which will make it easier to carry gear, give you longer fuel range and will be generally more comfortable. Enjoy the ride! I recall there is a 400km stretch with no fuel stops. Gear up properly, lots of flying rocks. You should see the rental car windshields at the end of the summer in Whitehorse ...

Every Canadian should experience the Yukon. PS: Bring a good sleeping blindfold ... it never really gets dark in the summer.

I haven't been on the Dempster, but drove up to Fairbanks on the Al-Can. I was in my Dodge 4x4 loaded with boats, camping gear and dogs. It's a long haul up there.
Marcham hit the nail on the head - gear, fuel, and comfort = KLR
And the comment about lots of flying rocks might be an understatement, seriously.
Prepare to get dirty, really dirty on the way there and back.
Post a ride report.

Yeah, I kinda figured that would be the answer. I have an IMS tank on the KLR, so it is indeed a super tanker!

It is a long haul, but I need to do a long trip every few years to keep sane.

Thanks for the comments.