2024 Honda XR650L Dual Sport Preview

American Honda maintains its venerable XR650L into 2024, with no notable changes to the stalwart platform. It will remain priced at $6,999 and will only be available in the white color scheme shown below.

“A motorcycle of legendary status, the XR650L continues to stand the test of time, thanks in part to its simple, no-frills design and relentless dependability,” American Honda says in its official press release. “Backed by an incredible record of success in Baja, this dual-sport icon has amassed a loyal following of enthusiasts around the globe since its introduction in 1993.

Related: 1993 - 2007 Honda XR650L | Smart Money

As is evident by the longevity of other dual sport motorcycles, like the KLR650 and DR650S, big single-cylinder machines continue to have appeal. The XR650L is no exception in this case, but it does now stand as one of the most simple of the bunch mechanically, now that Kawasaki has finally given in to fuel injection.

The 644cc mill is air-cooled, features a 42.5 diaphragm-type CV carburetor, and puts power to the ground by way of a five-speed transmission. The bike is ready for some hard time off-road too thanks to the sealed battery, dry-sump design, black spoked rims, and long-travel suspension.

The suspension is actually one area where the XR650L shines among its closest competitors, offering effective Showa kit front and rear. The long-travel, air-adjustable fork has 16-position compression damping and gives riders up to 11.6 inches of travel. The Showa shock comes with spring-preload, 20-position compression, and 20-position rebound-damping adjustability and 11 inches of travel. These specs outshine those of both the Kawi and Suzuki.

Its price tag is also one of the most competitive of the small group of largely-untouched-so-are-now-retro-cool dual sports, beating out the Suzuki and pricing just $100 above the standard trim and S-level KLRs.