(07-27-2016 03:28 AM)curlyjoe Wrote: I guess the 650 versys is an option but the bike has no centerstand!
The 650 is a pretty agile bike and makes respectable power, but for the type of riding you mentioned in the first post, and compared to the bikes you mentioned, it's not going to offer the all-day comfort of the larger machines.
The twin is adequate but a bit anemic in the last analysis; brakes are not what you'll find on a bike with a higher price point, nor is suspension.
For that kind of money the F700GS is a very good option. For the majority of adventures, it's a better choice than the 800. The 800 is peaky, geared lower, and has more vibration in the bars. It's also quite a bit taller.
However, the 21" wheel and extra suspension travel and ten additional horsepower do give it the edge in a few areas. The 700 is much better on the pavement, though.