Originally Posted by AndyDavidson (Post 181793)

As said, I am looking to compile a feature ride report on the XT660R specifically. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated, both positive and negative...

I am quite interested in what everyone thinks of the fuel injection... the low end surging, how you fixed it, for example the difference between a Kev mod and a power commander, the different options available, or do some of you not notice it,

Also what about vibrations etc..

Thanks for the above comments, really helpful, keep them coming!

Maxwell: I am assuming your talking about a Z model then not the R?

Boneman: when you say you have trouble keeping up, is this because of the weight? what weight saving tips do you know off and has the Akro influenced power?

Thanks again guys, much appreciated

Andy

Originally Posted by AndyDavidson (Post 182160)

Guys, they are brilliant replies, I will look to place some of those as quotes in the long term test article.

A question for you all though,

The question of carb vs fuel injection

I would like to write about the XT660R as a serious RTW adventure bike contender, to do that, carbs and fuel injection sometimes comes up.

What do you chaps think is better for a round the world trip, keeping in mind the XT... there is the balance between reliability, high altitude ability etc of fuel injection, and then being able to fix a carb at the side of the road...

Do any of you have any experience with malfunctioning ECU's or opinions on that? how to counteract it, spares and what not, can you take a spare system with you? do you trust FI over carb for the long term travel?

Thanks again for all your detailed replies, super helpful

Andy

Originally Posted by maxwell123455 (Post 182186)

I am quite interested in what everyone thinks of the fuel injection... the low end surging, how you fixed it, for example the difference between a Kev mod and a power commander, the different options available, or do some of you not notice it?


I did have a slight bit of surging at the start but i was taught how to ride on a single cylinder bike so i found it no different covering and slipping the clutch at low revs or in and around traffic. I finally after a few years bought a stg 2 air filter and kev fuel mod and this combo gives loads of torque down low, a bit more top end but overall alot better fuelling allowing for less clutch slip and surging. In the end of the day it is a bit single and with a long swing arm it just feels like youve a slack chain when it surges.

Also what about vibrations etc..

I didnt have much problem with vibration all the way up till around 40k miles. Got the engine serviced again in and around this milage and the mechanic said of the main bearing must be loosening off. At 70mph (with a 1 tooth higher front sprocket) it was ok, no more vibration than any other bike, over this the vibrations started. I think this was down to a worn engine and if i had the money and time at the time i probably would have stripped the engine, replaced parts and rebuilt it.

Maxwell: I am assuming your talking about a Z model then not the R?

I owned an R for 4 years, but have only just bought a Z so i compare them together. The R for me would probably have been the better off roading bike (although i havent tested the Z fully yet) but the R being lighter makes alot of difference. Ok the fuel tank is smaller so you may want to carry a 5 ltr drum + with you if your doing long distance riding, however both bikes give good MPG.

Below are a selection of my pictures showing near 4 years of ownership of an XTR.