I will be buying my first bike in a couple of months (after my MSF course) and have pretty well decided on an EX 500. I had toyed with the idea of a SV650, and I love the FZ6 that another member is selling but in the end I think that either one COULD be a first bike, I'd rather err on the side of caution. Plus I can grab an EX for 2K or less.
That being said, I'm wondering if a KLR650 should be on my radar? My intended use is fair weather commuting about 70 miles round trip - I can use either freeway or surface streets - plus weekend rides when time permits. If you've seen the pockmarked surface of the moon, you have some faint idea of what Michigans roads look like - long travel suspension has its appeal...
OTOH, I am somewhat vertically challenged at 5'9" with a 30" inseam. Would the KLR be too tippy?
For as much as I love the KLR, I think that you'd be better served by something else (EX 500 is a good choice). Reasons not to chose the KLR:
1) Too tall (can be lowered easily, however)
2) 70 miles every day on the highway can be a drag (literally and figuratively) I understand the road condition aspect but I'm not sure if it would warrant a bike just for that reason

That being said, the KLR is a hoot to ride
