The ER-6n is nice, but I like the Versys a bit better, same engine, two inch taller suspention, and I've heard great road manners. The KLR plan sounds good too.

I know it's kind of sacrelige to mention other brands, but an appropriately equipped DR650 looks like it would make a good 80/20 rig, light and agile for canyon carving, and able to handle fire road type stuff.

 

I didnt find too much difference in handling between 650 and 1200. However 1200 sticks better to the road. I really believe that 650 is mediocre size. Too heavy for handling but still underpowered. I was riding both and finally ended up with R1200gsa. This bike is pleasure to ride. Only very technical tracks require lighter machine and KLX250 is the right size.

 

Bike size is obviously very preferential, and it varies depending on where and how one is wanting ride. I would differ a bit about 600/650's being somewhat underpowered...KLR650's aside as they are somewhat underpowered. Also "underpowered" is somewhat relative. The parallel twin 650 engine in the bike Kobra is looking at may not be at the horsepower rating of the 600 Ninja crotch rocket, but it is super torquey and has very good power. It has about the same horsepower as my '73 Z1-900 did, and the 650 weighs a lot less. If you haven't ridden one of these 650's...the ER, Ninja 650R, or Versys, they are a very fun ride.

I don't think Kobra is wanting a dual sport type bike for his application in getting the ER6N. Personally I'd keep the KLX and get a Ninja 650R...even over the Versys. The reality to me is that the Versys is pretty much going to suck for even a very rough dirt 2-track, so why compromise the bike. The Ninja 650R and the ER6N are definitely more street oriented, but with a KLX sitting here, I'd want a street bike to be a street bike...if you get my meaning. But as mentioned before, people are different, and it's almost a learning process of years to finally figure out what works for an individual. And even then, things can change. How about a 3-bike system?...maybe 5 bikes?...Oh well!

 

Correct

I used the KLX to ride around on our farm land but wasnt comfortable with it on the highway at 80mph. Since the KLX was the first streetable bike I have ever owned I found myself riding on the roads more than on the trails. Thats when I started to research street bikes.

I do have a 4 wheeler that I can use to ride on the farmland with.

If I do get an ER6n I will probably keep it bone stock. I know the Versys and the Ninjas are more sportier but I just want a comfortable road worthy machine with decent power.

 

Like I said before, I think it's an excellent choice. I think that motor is one of the "funnest" motors in a mid-sized motorcycle I've ridden. I still get to ride new bikes at the motorcycle shop I used to work at. I loved all 3 bikes with that engine. You'll love it.

 

Might have it sold. Guy is coming by to look at it tonight.

 

Good luck, hope all works out for you... i gotta sell my nighthawk.
anyone want to buy it?

 

You really did a lot of work to that bike, you've got it looking sharp! Nice work, man.

 

I picked up a used 2008 Versys last August and so far can't think of a better street bike. I had been away from pure street bikes for almost 30 years. Yamaha RD's were my weapon of choice at the time. The Versys has more than enough power....it'll get you a speeding ticket in 1st gear with no problem....and in the pokey with 2nd and above. It's manners on the road are great. I sat on an EN6r and Versys at the same dealership and liked the feel of the Versys much better. It has a more upright position, less leaning over and less pressure on old arms and hands at slow speeds. Kawasaki says they retuned the Versys 650 for more mid range torque and from the little bit of two up riding I've done with it there is no hesitation when you roll on the throttle.

 

Congrats on the new bike!