Motorcycle Repair: Classic Enduro, klr 650, dirt bikes

Question
Hello, Got fifteen hundred or less to spend, want to buy a big thumper enduro. Don't care how old, just want the best one ever made. Something bulletproof that never breaks down, and requires the least amount of maintenance, with parts cheap and easy to find. Leaning towards a Honda XRL, somebody told me that the old 600's were better than the 650's, is that true? Or a KLR or DR or XT, or similar, which specific models and years are the best in terms of reliability, durability, and long engine life? Something that can be ridden hard, put away wet and not cry about it. Any thing ever made with no weak spots?

Answer
Gene..... I don't ride dirt bikes/enduros and have only a basic knowledge of Honda's products. The first XL500s were pretty sturdy, but had some leaking problems around the top cover. Many of the 500-650s have thread pulling issues, when you go to take them apart. They used some narrow sprockets on some of the XL650s, which wobbled on the shaft and eventually cracked the output shaft. I would check with companies like XRsonly.com to see what their experiences are with these kinds of problems.

I do know that the KLR 650 Kawasakis are seemingly bulletproof and can usually be found for little $$....

I don't have much to say about Yamahas and Suzuki thumpers from the past. I really don't concentrate on that area of motorcycling, like I do on vintage Hondas from the 1960-70s.

Nothing is made with "no weak spots."

Bill Silver