Hugh Janus Posted August 30, 2021 Share Posted August 30, 2021 2021 Honda XR650L. (Honda/)UpsTried-and-true reliability from the 644cc singleGo-anywhere capabilityDownsUpdated competition finally stresses the ol’ XRVerdictThe XR650L is Honda’s proven on- and off-road workhorse with nearly two decades of reliability to prove it. This may be the most iconic dual sport machine ever produced.2021 Honda XR650L. (Honda/)OverviewThere are few motorcycles that have enjoyed a run as successful as that of the Honda XR650L. Since debuting in 1992, the XR has enjoyed the riches of Baja race victories and long-standing success as a trusty dual sport machine. Really, it hasn’t changed much since then, and neither has its reputation.Updates for 2021The XR650L remains unchanged in 2021.Pricing and VariantsThe Honda XR650L retails for $6,999.CompetitionBig Red’s main competitor in the big-bore dual sport space is the Kawasaki KLR650, which sees updates for 2022. The Suzuki DR650S can also be considered as well as the more expensive but modern-day KTM 690 Enduro R.Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and PerformanceThe 649cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine powering the XR650L packs a go-anywhere, do-anything attitude with its two-decade proven reliability. It has the capability to chug up the steepest hills with loads of usable torque, and on the road the counterbalanced engine is reasonably smooth. A 100-mph top speed? You betcha. Sure, it may not pack the performance of screaming modern-day liquid-cooled enduros, but chances are if you’ve made it here, that’s not what you’re searching for in the first place.2021 Honda XR650L. (Honda/)HandlingAt a claimed 346 pounds fully fueled, the XR650L is a tank in comparison to modern-day competition. Yet, once up to speed, quick and agile steering will be a surprise. The adjustable Showa suspension is plush and well balanced, making for adequate all-day ride comfort, but it lacks the big-hit support to withstand bottoming out on any serious jumps!BrakesThe XR650L is stopped via disc brakes front and rear.Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGHonda estimates 52 mpg out of the XR650L.Ergonomics: Comfort and UtilityBuilt with aggressive ergonomics, the XR650L is known for having a cramped riding position for taller riders with its relatively low handlebar and tight seat-to-footpeg measurement. That’s kind of funny considering the relatively high claimed 37.0-inch seat height that will challenge most, especially in low-speed situations.Its long motocross-style seat is paired with a grab handle and folding passenger pegs, meaning the XR is two-up capable.2021 Honda XR650L. (Honda/)ElectronicsThe XR650L is as bare-bones as it gets. The closest thing to a rider aid found on the XR is a push-button electric starter. Otherwise it’s equipped with a headlight, turn signals, and an analog speedometer.Warranty and Maintenance CoverageHonda covers the XR650L with a transferable limited warranty. Additional coverage is available with an additional HondaCare Protection Plan.QualityThe Honda XR650L has been Honda’s trusty dual sport steed since its inception and has remained virtually unchanged since. Sure, it may not have the gizmos and gadgets that come standard in 2021, but you can’t fault its bulletproof reliability.2021 Honda XR650L. (Honda/)2021 Honda XR650L Claimed Specifications MSRP: $6,999 Engine: 644cc, SOHC, air-cooled single-cylinder; 4-valve Bore x Stroke: 100.0mm x 82.0mm Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed/chain Fuel Delivery: 42.5mm diaphragm-type CV carburetor Clutch: Wet, multiplate Engine Management/Ignition: Solid-state CD Frame: Tubular-steel chassis Front Suspension: 43mm air-adjustable Showa cartridge fork, compression adjustable; 11.6 in. travel Rear Suspension: Pro-Link Showa shock, fully adjustable; 11.0 in. travel Front Brake: 2-piston caliper, 256mm disc Rear Brake: 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc Wheels, Front/Rear: Spoked wheels Tires, Front/Rear: 3.00-21 / 4.60-18 Rake/Trail: 27.0°/4.0 in. Wheelbase: 57.3 in. Ground Clearance: 13.0 in. Seat Height: 37.0 in. Fuel Capacity: 2.8 gal. Wet Weight: 346 lb. Contact: powersports.honda.com Source Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
boboneleg Posted August 31, 2021 Share Posted August 31, 2021 Remove that horrendous back light and the rad guards, fit an Acerbis tank, strap some bags on and away you go......................... 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Catteeclan Posted August 31, 2021 Share Posted August 31, 2021 Under powered now and if we're honest, the engine isn't that bullet proof. You're not wrong about that back light bob. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sir Fallsalot Posted August 31, 2021 Share Posted August 31, 2021 6 hours ago, boboneleg said: Remove that horrendous back light and the rad guards, fit an Acerbis tank, strap some bags on and away you go......................... Don't forget that bloody tail pipe. If there was a competition for the ugliest exhaust in the world the one on that would be too ugly to enter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pedro Posted August 31, 2021 Share Posted August 31, 2021 18 minutes ago, Sir Fallsalot said: Don't forget that bloody tail pipe. If there was a competition for the ugliest exhaust in the world the one on that would be too ugly to enter Almost looks like Honda meant it to be dealt with home cutting tools and drills And... 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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