Byron Bay to Perth... On L's

Was going to recommend v45 Sabre I use to have but it was a 750, great bike though liquid cooled and OD transmision. Only bike I have seen in a 650 good for touring is the Yamaha Vstar classic, it's a low rider and most came with saddle bags. I don't know about price points or how long they have been makin them. Kawy has a 500 vulcan but I only had 1 Kawy back in the 80's - 1100 LTD but way to much motor there for a beginner!

Any mid size Japanese bike would be what you’re looking for. All are good bikes and we all have our preference. Make the best deal you can and have fun on the ride.

Jonas - with a $3000 cap in your program and being limited to 650cc; I think the best ride you could get for your money would be a BMW. Good solid german engineering and a fairly decent ride on these bikes. Second choice would be a triumph 650 tt120 model.
It all depends on whats available in your area.
Suggest you shop around and see whats available. Doesn't matter what comes with it for carrying anything cause your probably gonna wind up using tie downs to load up anyway. Main thing your want to look for for is dependably. I don't think there are many dealers out that way so it would important that you understand what it takes to keep your ride up and running. Once you decide what bike to go with make sure your carry a tool kit that works with your ride.
Even new rides break down and pushin a bike for a couple of miles is like havin sex with two fat women at the same time. It'll make a old man out of ya quick!:roflmao::roflmao:

Several years back when I started back to riding, I got a 350 Honda. I'm 6'2" and at that time weighed about 210 lbs. The bike cost $350, was a good running bike and I put a bunch of miles on it. But it was probably a little small for me which was fine at the time due to my budget and because I hadn't ridden in a good while. If I was doing it agian, i would start with a bike about that size. good luck.
Danny

Jonas - check out DAVO's post - you guys are from the same part of the world and he's lookin to hook up for a walkabout also.

These restrictions appear to be for new riders/drivers....seems like a good idea to me...would you wanna toss the keys for a 450hp street rod or a 140hp sport bike to a newbie??