Reassurance needed...

[Phil Clarke]

Isn't the 650 country the one that Ewans missus rode on long way down?
Lower bikes are easier off road as being able to get your feet down and paddle is always a benefit. It might be heavier than the X chalenge but you'll drop it less.

 

[AndyT]

I'm confused (doesn't take much) - but I rang up to change my bike to the X - Challenge, but they're insistent that the minimum height for it is 5"10 - and they suggest that the 650 Country would be more suitable -
Is the X-Challenge really that high? Any advice would be appreciated! I am 5"10 - but don't want something that's really fecking high...

The X-Challenge is rather high in the seat department but its your leg length rather than your height which is important and generally girls have longer legs (thankfully) than men of corresponding height.
I am sure you will be fine on the X-challenge but on the same score the X-country looks a nice bike too and if fitted with knobblies will be ideal. Once you are riding either bike you will be just fine and dandy. We had a police rider in our group who sat on his X-challenge from morning until night and I realised he was too nervous to get on/off without dropping it. His mate however wasn't so shy and just kept dropping it at speed..... ouch.

You will have a ball Tash

AndyT

PS. You could just tell them you are 5' 11"

 

[Janie]

i won't worry about the height...your stood up on the pegs most of the time....a lower bike makes it easier for gettin on and off.....and remember you have to get on and off without using your sidestand.... and u have to be able to walk the bike on the throttle......and the 650gs is a nice easy bike to ride....the sort of riding u do on the 2 days the 650gs is the ideal bike.....as u spend most of it in 1st and 2nd..........unless your on the fire roads and then will use a higher one......
its all down to personal taste.....

 

[H.R.H. Nashskye]

Thanks for the advice...again! I sorted it out today and am going for the X Challenge, I like the fact that it's lighter and as you all say, my feet'll be on the pegs most of the time.
Roll on March!!

 

[BAKERMAN]

Thanks for the advice...again! I sorted it out today and am going for the X Challenge, I like the fact that it's lighter and as you all say, my feet'll be on the pegs most of the time.
Roll on March!!

1200cc