Thought about starting a profile at ADVrider for these musings, but it's blocked at work so I probably wouldn't log on much. Besides, we had a few migrate over here anyway . Keep in mind my bike is for sale, that's the only thing keeping me from moving on this right meow. Been thinking about dual sports all summer, My dad bought a KTM RXC last week so that pretty much sealed the deal. Qualifications: I have some dirtbike experience growing up. Not a big risk taker, exploring sounds fun but I'm not really into jumps. I love back roads, if I throw some sporty tires on a bike I want it to inspire confidence in the corners (not like the R6, but quickly). I commute on my bike a lot and take some trips so luggage is a must, at least a top case, includes some highway. Unfortunately I can only work with one bike at a time right now. Seems like the main contenders for something to do all of the above are BMWs. This suits me just fine as my dad had me into the cars from a young age (I've had 4). That would probably also help me get a bit more attached to it and not be trying to sell it a season later. Pardon some of the obvious stuff, this is the list I sent to the significant other. So here are the ones I like the best: BMW G650 X Challenge Pros- Great in the dirt New tech, cutting edge won’t be outdated any time soon A hard topcase is available, doubles as backrest With sport tires would be fun on back roads 53hp is a lot less to get in trouble with than the 120hp I have now Super light weight for maneuverability Almost 60mpg Cons- Not so great on the highway Light weight, will get blown around in the wind a bit Passenger pegs must be bought as an accessory Seat is too hard, needs redone Seat height is almost 38” Would need two sets of wheels to be live-able, one pair knobbies and one pair for commuting/twisties (better than two bikes I guess) It’s a relatively rare bike, may get attached to it Also the X Country exists, but I have a hard time compromising on the dirt aspect when I could just throw on different wheels. Seems like a budget version. Still a contender. Then there's the Dakar Pros: Good on the highway Has some dirt capability Better seat, passenger pegs standard Luggage accessories available, including side racks Good range Stands out Time tested design Cons- 100lb heavier, tougher to navigate difficult terrain and corners Not nearly as sporty, a bit vanilla engine makes 40 something hp (I think), means 2-up it’ll be struggling Not very soul stirring, may get tired of it Most models for sale have a LOT of miles on them 2 sets of tires could be done, but it doesn’t do sport or dirt REALLY well, just capable Alright, well that's me sitting here thinking out loud to my keyboard. Sorry for the length. Hoping I can move on one relatively soon. Throw any of your thoughts out there.