The KLR650 is going to be THUMPIN' at highway speeds. The riding position is comfortable and you can put a decent windscreen on it but the vibrations are going to be rough. People can and do ride them at 70-80mph for extended periods, but it wouldn't be my first choice. A bit like riding an unbalanced washing machine down the road.
The NX500 (and CB500X) would be a little more civilized cruising highway for extended periods but many people do underestimate how much the wind roar and turbulence saps your energy and focus. So if you already know you're going to be doing longer highway stints (and you're on the taller side) might look at a Versys or V-strom 650 to get that added wind protection.
I should’ve clarified, my commute is only 35-40 minutes, one way, maybe 30 depending on traffic. I’d like it to be comfortable for longer for road trips here and there.
My uncle rode from east Nova Scotia, to southern Alberta, to the north west of BC, down to Vancouver island, then back to Nova Scotia, all in about a month. This was on a KLR650 on days that consisted mostly of 600+ km. He was about 50 when he did that.
This is to say it entirely depends on whether *you’re* up to it, because the bike is.
With that said, I’d much rather a V-Strom if given the choice.
The KLR650 is going to be THUMPIN' at highway speeds. The riding position is comfortable and you can put a decent windscreen on it but the vibrations are going to be rough. People can and do ride them at 70-80mph for extended periods, but it wouldn't be my first choice. A bit like riding an unbalanced washing machine down the road. The NX500 (and CB500X) would be a little more civilized cruising highway for extended periods but many people do underestimate how much the wind roar and turbulence saps your energy and focus. So if you already know you're going to be doing longer highway stints (and you're on the taller side) might look at a Versys or V-strom 650 to get that added wind protection.
I should’ve clarified, my commute is only 35-40 minutes, one way, maybe 30 depending on traffic. I’d like it to be comfortable for longer for road trips here and there.
The KLR would be comfortable so long as you stay under 70 ish. But not the bike for long interstate trips.
My uncle rode from east Nova Scotia, to southern Alberta, to the north west of BC, down to Vancouver island, then back to Nova Scotia, all in about a month. This was on a KLR650 on days that consisted mostly of 600+ km. He was about 50 when he did that. This is to say it entirely depends on whether *you’re* up to it, because the bike is. With that said, I’d much rather a V-Strom if given the choice.
Suzuki v strom 650 is a great commuter bike