Honda’s Indestructible 2023 XR650L Rides On

Reliability. One of the many descriptors for a tough-as-nails Honda motorcycle. That’s why the XR650L lives on with this versatile dual sport garnering an allegiance following.

It may not be the most modern new motorcycle in today’s market (for example, it’s still carbureted unlike one of its main competitors, the KLR650, which is now fuel injected), but it’s easy to wrench on should the need arise. To that end, it also features an easily removable rear wheel with straight-pull spokes which make it an unstoppable trail companion.

Powering it is a 644cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine which we mentioned is fed by a 42.5mm constant-velocity (CV) carb. The engine is counterbalanced to quell any engine vibration that would have otherwise traveled through the semi-double cradle steel frame to the handlebar and cleated footpegs.

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Dirt-bike-spec 21- and 18-inch wheels are held onto the chassis with a 43mm Showa fork and aluminum box-section swingarm and Pro-Link Showa shock. Planning on riding off-road over eroded trails and rocks? The suspension’s adjustability and around 11 inches of travel at both ends and 13-inch ground clearance will get you there.

True, it’s not the lightest machine around with its 346-pound claimed curb weight nor is it the easiest machine to swing a leg over (we’re eyeing that 37-inch seat height), but the mill will be nicely protected with its tubular engine guard should there be any tip-overs that may result from the difficulty of touching a foot down or from overzealous trail riding.

Turn signals, front and rear lighting, a license plate bracket, and mirrors make it legal to ride on the roads. Plus, a friend can tag along for the ride because there’s also accommodations for two with the bike’s long seat, passenger pegs, and grab strap.

The 2023 model’s $6,999 is an easy pill to swallow especially considering the bike can take you all across the paved tarmac to the trailhead and beyond.