I picked up a 2008 XR650L new in 2010. Not a good year for the 650L. Seems they had problems with the cylinder liner in the cylinder as I burnt her up at 1600 miles and again at 3500 (but less sever). Honda electrical on this bike are low bid crap. With about 4500 miles on her I think I have her sorted - knock on wood. Check out ThumperTalk for all the good and bad (funny thing, the bad is not mentioned as much....).
Anyhow, I got it as I wanted a lighter bike for dirt. Meh, still to heavy for my skill set. A buddy has a DR-350 and as ridden the snot off of it. Even wore out his first, I think he's on his second one. He rides it from Phoenix to Canada on dirt - takes roads back so he can get to work again. Big guy too.
Myself; perhaps I need a 250.