>>2568613Dual sports are the best beginner bikes. They're typically durable so no expensive repairs when a new rider inevitably drops it, and the engines are very controllable. The upright riding position gives good control without having to do weird contortions. The only difficult thing about them is they're relatively tall compared to other beginner bikes. Comfort is pretty bad. The seats suck but at least you aren't folded up like you would be on a sport bike.
I rode my klx300 on a ~2000 mile trip. The first half was mostly unpaved roads split over like a week. The second half was a couple days taking interstates home at 70mph. It would have been uncomfortable for the interstate portion, but it was pouring rain which made it outright miserable. 5 hours under good conditions is pretty tolerable though.
I recommend the Japanese 250-300 class. Klx250S/300, WR250R, CRF250/300L. Stay away from the European brands until you know better.
