I am a new member looking for a suitable bike for the above journey. Initially I thought of a SuziDR650 but a good one would be hard enough to find in England, but down here in Portugal, almost impossible. I remember reading an article by Damon I'Anson in BIKE magazine, about his trip to the Himalayas on a 660. He said it was totally reliable. I'd love to do my trip on my Buell Ulysses but it probably would let me down, although it hasn't yet and one did Alaska to Ushaia with no problems (I've seen it) so I am considering an XT660R. I used to have an XT500E (1983-1989) and went to Portugal from England 3 times and Greece once. What a great bike. Now I live in Portugal and have time on my hands as I've retired early, I aim to do what I've wanted to do for years. Ride to Tokyo, where I used to live (1989-1992.) So, lada and lassies, is the 660 a good choice or should I try to source a DR650 or even a KLR650? Nick...

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Both the XT660R and XT660Z Tenere have taken our forum members from on side of the world to the other already.

Many in fact on Tenere's. The bike is definately up to the task povided the rider and it's equipment, and of course his skills and endurance are a large part of the equation. Tyre changes roadside, chain and sprocket, some even had to change / repair forks on the go, all these things that are potential misshaps need to be negotiated by the capable hands of a relentless hardcore rider.

Please read the avventures of JMO (Jenny Morgan) who flew the bike to the US and rode it over desert, ice, snow and rocks from coast to coast, all on her own.

You've come to the right place regarding choice of bike and amount of informations, and now the rest is up to you. Good luck.