2009 Honda XR Review

Intro

The XR 650L and XR 230L were models released by Honda in 2009 is a part of its on/off-road style motorbike lineup. The base MSRP for these bikes is typically around $6,000. The engines for these on/off-road motorbikes are air-cooled and have four valves per cylinder. The Honda XR 230L produces around 45 horsepower at 6,750 RPM and 47.2 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 RPM. The frames of these bikes are made of steel, the suspension is made of aluminum and the body is made of plastic.

The dashboard of these on/off-road motorbikes provide the driver with a standard speedometer and a trip odometer as well. The Honda XR on/off-road motorbikes are equipped with a one-piece seat that is made of vinyl and is designed to hold up to two riders. These motorbikes also come equipped with foot pegs for the driver and passenger as well. An engine case guard, fork guards, brush guards, hand guards, an exhaust guard and side covers are all standard features for the 2009 Honda XR 650L. The 2009 Honda XR 650L motorcycles also come equipped with standard decal kits, halogen headlights, and a vinyl tail bag.

Many riders feel like the 2009 Honda XR 650L is the best motorcycle in its on/off-road class. Riders enjoy this dual sport motorbike because of its light weight, nimble handling, adequate ground clearance and reasonable price. These motorbikes are equally popular among novice riders and more experienced riders as well. Riders feel that the 2009 XR 650L handles the pavement, woods, trail, mud and water better than most dual sport motorbikes currently available. Riders love the power and torque that these on/off-road motorbikes provide. Some riders say that these motorbikes should have a lower first gear and additional storage, as well.

Some riders say that the high riding of these dual sport motorbikes can be intimating at first, but ultimately they are comfortable to ride. Riders typically praise these motorbikes for the power provided from the stock powertrain that enables the 2009 Honda XR 650L to handle almost any type of adverse road condition. Many riders hold on to these motorcycles for many years. Most bikers say that the 2009 Honda XR 650L can be a great starter for bikers interested in trying an off-road or dual sport motorbike.

New For 2009

  • Honda did not release the 2008 XR Tornado for 2009. The Honda XR 650L was carryover for 2009.

2009 Honda XR Specs

  • Models: 2009 Honda XR 230L, XR 650L
  • Engine Type: 644 cc four-stroke single-cylinder
  • Bore and Stroke: 3.94 x 3.23 inches
  • Compression ratio: 8:3:1
  • Valve Train: SOHC
  • Induction: Carburetor
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: five-speed manual
  • Final Drive: Chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 2.8 gallons and 0.6 gallon reserve
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): Disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Disc
  • Suspension (Front): Telescopic Fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin Sided Swing Arm
  • Wheelbase: 57.3 inches
  • Rake: 27°
  • Trail: 4 inches
  • Seat Height: 37 inches
  • Curb Weight: 346 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 3 X 21
  • Tires (Rear): 4.6 X 18

Accessories

  • The 2009 Honda XR lineup is available in Red

Key Competitors For The 2009 Honda XR

  • The 2009 BMW F 800 GS
  • The 2009 Yamaha WR 250R
  • The 2009 Buell Ulysses XB12X
  • The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650
  • The 2009 Suzuki DR-Z 400S Base
  • The 2009 BMW R 1200 GS