Owned a 97 400 and currently an '04 400. Absolutely bulletproof, a bit on the heavy side a underpowered in stock trim but with proper jetting and int/exh work, it will open up nicely. Unfortunately Honda is no longer continuing the XR line in favor of the CRF line, big mistake

I've only owned an XR250L and felt it was under-powered, heavy and softly-suspended. However I've ridden XR100s, 200s, 250Rs, 400s, 600s and 650Ls. They are probably the most bullet-proof bike in the world. I would love to find an older 200, back when they had real suspension, as a spare bike. XR250Rs do very well in the east coast, tight woods terrain.

Honda is a great bike to own and the xr is a outstanding machine and will last long.

For a duel sport bike it's the best. They found a good engine design and have stuck with it. They even have a bike for little kids. They also keep updating the suspension and styling to stay in style.

My comments apply to the XR-250R and XR-250L The L is a decent dual-sport, but it has (as do all dual-sports) serious weaknesses in the dirt. The lights are great, but the turn signals are vulnerable. The battery (which makes the lights work so well) is a pain in the neck to maintain. The suspension is too mushy even for a um... mature rider. The power band is great for slow riding, but poops out too early. On the other hand- The R is a much better dirt bike. The suspension is competent at less than full-bore riding. The power band is adequate, the stock tires work well in hardpack and clay. I'd recommend this bike to any adult looking for an easy to ride, non-adrenaline-rush-producing dirt bike.

Totally bullet-proof reliability. XRs are great trail and desert bikes.