Passionate Riding: October 2009

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Honda International Bikes: XR650L

Honda XR650L: Dual Sport Motorcycle

Price: Starting from $5,999

Whether you ride on dirt or on the road, power is everything. Especially when you ride the XR650L. Its bulletproof 644cc overhead cam engine produces huge torque and power, thanks to the Radial Four-Valve Combustion Chamber. While the gear-driven counterbalancer reduces tiring vibrations. Thanks to a chassis that is strong and exceptionally agile, the XR650L makes short work of long rides whether they’re on the road or off.

It all starts in the engine room, where the XR’s potent, Baja-bred 644cc OHC powerplant uses Honda’s patented Radial Four-Valve Combustion Chamber (RFVC) to put out huge torque and power. From there, a gear-driven counterbalancer minimizes vibrations, while a light, rigid chassis and long-travel suspension soak up the bumps and deliver superb handling on pavement and off. Handy electric starting simply makes it all that much easier.

Specifications

Engine

Engine Type: 644cc air cooled dry-sump single-cylinder four-stroke

Compression Ratio: 8.3:1

Induction: 42.5mm diaphragm-type CV carburetor

Ignition: Solid-state CD with electronic advance

Chassis / Suspension / Brakes

Front Suspension: 43mm air-adjustable leading-axle Showa cartridge fork with 16-position compression-damping adjustability; 11.6-inch travel

Rear Suspension: Pro-link Showa single-shock with spring-preload, 20-position compression and 20-position rebound-damping adjustability; 11.0-inch travel

Front Brake: Single Disc with twin-piston caliper

Rear Brake: Single Disc

Front Tire: 3.00-2.1

Rear Tire: 4.60-18

Dimensions:

Rake: 27.0 degrees

Trail: 102.0mm (4.0 inches)

Wheelbase: 57.3 inches

Seat Height: 37.0inches

Ground Clearance: 13.0 inches

Curb Weight: 346 pounds

Fuel Capacity: 2.8 gallons, including 0.6 gallons reserve