Honda XR650L

Trail riding. Just about the most fun you can have with your pants on I reckon. We here at AMT are pretty committed road riders who have done a smattering of dirt crashing over the years. Well, the ante's been upped lately with the entire crew rediscovering the joys of getting dirty and we've been hitting the trails in a big way recently.

On this occasion I opted for the Honda XR650L. It's a big bike for those that are bigger in stature and know their way around a dirt bike. Dunno why I reckon I qualified, but that's another story. It's got more grunt than an overweight nymphomaniac and a high seating position (940mm) so newcomers may find all that a little intimidating, but a faint heart never won a fair maiden so I decided to spend a bit of time in the bush on the big thumper.

The bike is at home on gravel roads where you can make use of the huge torque curve and it'll sit on big speeds forever and a day. Wanna go around Oz? Suits you Sir...

It revels in 'easier' dirt going and that's where it belongs. For those looking to head into the bush but not into the very tight gnarly stuff, this thing is just about perfect. On the other hand if you're up for a bit of virgin bush topography and making your own roads, well, truthfully, I'd be looking elsewhere.

Suspension is soft and plush and the analogue speedo is nice and substantial. Brakes are fine and haul the big beast up with aplomb, but the biggest plus of all is that electric start button.

Now if you've ever kick-started a four-stroke dirt bike you'll know there is a knack. And if you've ever ridden a big four-stroke in the bush for any length of time and had to kick start it on numerous occasions, well, forget about 'knack' and start thinking 'knackered'. I mean absolutely, can-barely-stand-up, full-blown, help me Lord, rooted. Got the picture? I can sense all the nodding heads already...

Well, electric start makes that situation as big a thing of the past as staying up late, getting very pissed and still being able to operate the next day. It makes so much sense that you wonder why so few bikes feature it. That little button really is a huge plus for the XR650L.

Other uses? Well, I reckon a set of universal tyres would be the go to create a fair dinkum dualsport bike and at $9990 you get a ship-load of very good bike in that guise.

For those looking to hit the really tough stuff, you'd probably frown on a 147kg (dry) machine, but very committed dirters would know that going in.

So, what do you get? You get a bike for the masses. Okay it's big, but the longer you ride it the more you become familiar with it and if you're a larger person it will suit down to the ground.

And dirt riding? Sheer heaven and you get to put the bike away at the end of the day and turn up the stereo on the tow car. Suits me Sir...

HOW TO GET DIRTY
If you've never ridden a dirt bike but you reckon it looks fun, here are a few tips to help you get started.

Where do I go for help? For a dirt rookie, the best source of info is your local dealership, or mates who ride dirt bikes.

Which bike do I buy? A street legal bike you can learn on. Don't buy a killer bike you can't control and don't buy a race bike to ride in the bush. Cops hate that.

What gear do I need? Falling off can hurt. Don't leave home without a dirt helmet, goggles, body armour, boots, knee-guards and dirt gloves.

Where do I ride? Depends where you live. Hook up with dirt riding locals who know the best areas. Dealers know where you can ride and so should some of their customers.

Should I try before I buy? Damn right; you might buy a dirt bike and then hate it. The best way to dip a toe in the water is to book a spot on a day ride with an approved tour company. Try KTM Trail Tours (Sydney) for starters. Here's the number: Mick Wharton, 0418 860 861.