G650 X Challenge v F650 Dakar

[ONYERBIKE]

Anyone on here owned both bikes?
What are the differences between the two bikes?
Is there a massive difference between how they handle both on and off road?
Its probably been done a thousand times already, what are the worthwile upgrades on the Dakar?

 

[JohnnyBoxer]

Me - they're totally different

The Dakar is a better road bike, that can handle some fairly spicy offroad riding - but is heavy offroad and similar to a XT660Z Tenere in that respect

THe XChallenge is mainly a dualsport offroad bike, that is ok on the road - but is most definitely lacking in road going creature comforts and fuel range

 

[GFJ]

I'vw also had a few of both. Agree with JB's comments above.

If you are mainly road or forest trail, then the Dakar.

With the xch, what you gain on the trail capability you lose on the road, but most things are upgradable.

Weight is lower and power is higher on the xch. The xch is my favourite bike of recent years.

Now, sertao or Dakar, that's a question!

 

[Essexadventure]

Yes I've had both too and agree with JB and GFJ re on-road/off-road bias of them. But for me the poorer road going shortcomings of the X-Challenge are outweighed by the fun factor, lighter weight and more responsive engine. I prefer the X-C over the Dakar.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

 

[jtw000]

I've had neither! I do have the X-country and know a lot of guys with the Dakar. Treated with respect, the Dakar is a very capable and comfortable bike.
The bigger issue is the difference between the F650 and G650. The older F650 was a well made machine, I have a mate who rode one around the world for 5 years without a hitch. The newer one is Chinese built and the quality is poor. BMW have a reputation for reliable bikes that they don't always deserve, stick to the older ones and you'll be better off.

 

[GADGET]

I have had the X-challenge, X-Country, F650GS standard & Dakar, over the years, no comments about the newer 'China built' versions, as I've not had one, but for normal riding, limited off road stuff, the F650GS is perfectly adequate. Economy is good and easy to maintain, apart from valve shim adjustment, which is doable, but a pain.

 

[GFJ]

Whilst the Dakar will be comfier on road, I have just come back from a 3 day road trip around scotland on my x challenge (with a mate on a xcountry). What a hoot, excellent fun on those roads.

Only change was to put a 16t front sprocket on to ease the motorway part.