The Honda XR650L. It's a name that conjures up images of dusty trails, rugged adventures, and a certain old-school charm. But in a world of increasingly sophisticated dual-sport motorcycles, is the XR650L still relevant? More importantly, is it any good? For riders seeking a simple, reliable, and affordable machine capable of tackling both pavement and dirt, the XR650L remains a strong contender. Let's dive deep into the mechanical heart of this enduring motorcycle to see what makes it tick, and whether it's the right choice for you.
A Timeless Design: What Makes the XR650L Tick?
The XR650L hasn't seen a major overhaul in decades, and that's actually part of its appeal. Its design is refreshingly straightforward, built around a proven air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. Let's break down the key components:
The Engine: The heart of the beast is a 644cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This engine is known for its bulletproof reliability and simple design. It's not the most powerful engine in its class, but it delivers plenty of torque for off-road riding and comfortable cruising on the road. The RFVC (Radial Four Valve Combustion Chamber) design contributes to efficient combustion and decent power output.
The Carburetor: The XR650L uses a carburetor, which some might see as outdated in the age of fuel injection. However, the carburetor contributes to the bike's simplicity and ease of maintenance. While it might require occasional adjustments, it's generally reliable and easy to troubleshoot with basic mechanical knowledge.
The Suspension: The XR650L features a long-travel suspension system designed for off-road riding. It consists of a conventional telescopic fork at the front and a Pro-Link rear suspension system. While the suspension is adequate for general trail riding, it's not the most sophisticated and can feel a bit soft for aggressive off-road riding or heavier riders. Upgrading the suspension is a common modification for those looking to improve the bike's off-road performance.
The Frame: The XR650L uses a steel frame that's both strong and durable. It's designed to withstand the rigors of off-road riding and provide a stable platform for the engine and suspension.
The Brakes: The bike uses disc brakes at both the front and rear. While they provide adequate stopping power, they're not the most powerful brakes on the market. Upgrading the brake lines to stainless steel can improve braking performance.
Reliability and Maintenance: A Mechanic's Perspective
One of the biggest selling points of the XR650L is its legendary reliability. The simple, air-cooled engine is incredibly durable and can withstand a lot of abuse. Here's a closer look at reliability and maintenance:
Engine Reliability: The XR650L engine is known for its longevity. With proper maintenance, it can easily last for tens of thousands of miles. Regular oil changes are crucial, as is keeping the air filter clean.
Ease of Maintenance: The XR650L is incredibly easy to work on. The simple design means that most maintenance tasks can be performed with basic tools and a service manual. This makes it a great bike for riders who enjoy wrenching on their own machines.
Common Issues: While the XR650L is generally reliable, there are a few common issues to be aware of. These include:
- Countershaft Spline Wear: The countershaft splines, which connect the front sprocket to the transmission, can wear over time, especially if the chain is not properly maintained. Regularly lubricating the splines can help prevent this issue.
- Carburetor Issues: The carburetor can sometimes be finicky, especially if the bike sits for extended periods. Cleaning the carburetor and adjusting the fuel mixture can often resolve these issues.
- Starter Clutch: The starter clutch can sometimes fail, especially on older models. This can be a more involved repair, but it's not uncommon.
On the Road and Off the Beaten Path: Performance Review
The XR650L is a dual-sport motorcycle, designed to be capable both on and off the road. But how does it actually perform in different riding conditions?
On-Road Performance: The XR650L is surprisingly comfortable on the road, especially for shorter trips. The torquey engine provides plenty of power for cruising at highway speeds, although it's not the smoothest ride. The seat can become uncomfortable on longer rides, and the wind protection is minimal.
Off-Road Performance: The XR650L shines off-road. The long-travel suspension and torquey engine make it capable of tackling a wide variety of terrain. However, it's a relatively heavy bike, which can make it challenging in tight, technical sections. Upgrading the suspension and reducing weight can significantly improve its off-road performance.
Fuel Economy: The XR650L typically gets around 45-55 miles per gallon, depending on riding conditions. This gives it a decent range, making it suitable for longer adventures.
The Competition: How Does the XR650L Stack Up?
The dual-sport market is competitive, with a variety of bikes offering different strengths and weaknesses. How does the XR650L compare to its rivals?
Suzuki DR650: The DR650 is the XR650L's closest competitor. It's also an air-cooled, single-cylinder dual-sport that's known for its reliability and affordability. The DR650 is slightly lighter and has a lower seat height, making it more accessible to some riders.
Kawasaki KLR650: The KLR650 is another popular dual-sport option. It's a more touring-oriented bike than the XR650L, with a larger fuel tank and more comfortable seat. However, it's also heavier and less capable off-road.
Honda CRF300L: The CRF300L is a more modern dual-sport bike with fuel injection and a more sophisticated suspension. It's lighter and more nimble than the XR650L, but it lacks the raw power of the larger engine.
KTM 690 Enduro R / Husqvarna 701 Enduro: These are high-performance dual-sport bikes with powerful engines and advanced suspension. They're significantly more expensive than the XR650L, but they offer a much higher level of performance.
Customization and Aftermarket Support: Making It Your Own
The XR650L has a huge aftermarket, with a wide variety of parts and accessories available to customize the bike to your specific needs. Here are some popular modifications:
Suspension Upgrades: Upgrading the suspension is one of the most common modifications. This can significantly improve the bike's handling and comfort, both on and off the road.
Exhaust Systems: Aftermarket exhaust systems can improve the bike's performance and sound.
Larger Fuel Tanks: Larger fuel tanks are available for those who want to extend the bike's range.
Comfort Upgrades: Upgrading the seat and adding a windscreen can improve comfort for longer rides.
Protection: Adding handguards, skid plates, and crash bars can protect the bike from damage in the event of a crash.
Who is the XR650L For? A Rider Profile
The XR650L isn't for everyone, but it's a great choice for certain types of riders. Here's a look at who the XR650L is best suited for:
Riders looking for a reliable and affordable dual-sport: The XR650L is one of the most affordable and reliable dual-sport bikes on the market.
Riders who enjoy wrenching on their own bikes: The simple design of the XR650L makes it easy to work on.
Riders who want a capable off-road bike that's also street legal: The XR650L is a capable off-road bike that can also be ridden on the street.
Riders who are not concerned about having the latest technology: The XR650L is a relatively old-school bike, with a carburetor and basic suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the XR650L fuel injected? No, the XR650L uses a carburetor. This contributes to its simplicity and ease of maintenance.
- Is the XR650L good for beginners? It can be, but the seat height and weight can be intimidating for some. Consider a smaller, lighter bike if you're a brand new rider.
- How much does an XR650L cost? New XR650Ls typically retail for around ,000, but prices may vary depending on location and dealer. Used models can be found for significantly less.
- What's the seat height of the XR650L? The seat height is relatively tall, at around 37 inches. This can be a challenge for shorter riders.
- How often does the XR650L need maintenance? Regular oil changes (every 1000-2000 miles) and air filter cleaning are essential. Refer to the owner's manual for a complete maintenance schedule.
The Verdict: Is the XR650L Worth It?
The Honda XR650L is a motorcycle with a long and storied history. It's not the most modern or sophisticated dual-sport bike on the market, but it's a reliable, affordable, and capable machine that's perfect for riders who value simplicity and durability. If you're looking for a no-frills dual-sport that can handle a wide variety of terrain, the XR650L is definitely worth considering.