Here's some info on the USMC Diesel version of the KLR650.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/automobiles/24KAWASAKI.html?_r=0
The bikes are great and I enjoyed both of mine a lot. Of the two bikes: KLR250 and KLR650, I liked the 650 best. It has plenty of power but it's heavy and tall. I'm 6'1" and it was still tall for me. Once you get aboard, the shocks come down some but the initial boarding is a stretch!
The plan for our New Mexico trip was to stay in a tent at Belen NM the take the KLR to see the cliff dwellings in the area. Roads to those places are terrible. My lady friend wussed out so I hopped on the KLR and rode in back to Baytown......about 1100 miles. The bike never missed a beat. It was 105 degrees and I ran it HARD & FAST all the way home!
Please let us know what you decide!
Flash
Yeah, I think I'm going to try finding a KLR. Have to see if my boss can stumble across one at an auction or something. My old bike was kind of top heavy and tall, so I'm pretty used to that.
I've seen the diesel KLRs, last I checked they had a model planned for the civilian market, at something like 110 MPG. But they were expensive. Still would love to have one. 110 MPG. Sheesh.
I camp in New Mexico in an area known for cliff dwellings. They're something like 2000+ years old. Crazy how well-preserved they are.
Apirilla
What, I'm made of money all of a sudden?
Agreed, but my gut would keep me to far upright. Not sure about the OP though.
I'm too old to look like a pretzel after riding anymore anyway.
I don't have too much of a gut, but I can't handle being all kinked up. Bad knees, bad back. Got to have a little comfort...
My buddy Blake just sold his Ape Motard. They're great until you wheelie. Then the neck dumps fuel into your crotch.
Pff, like I've never had fuel on my crotch before.