Hi guys,
  I'm living in Melbourne Australia & i'm trying to get a bit more info on the DR 650 SE.  I'm thinking about getting a '99 model or latter.
Baisically i want a bike thats:

* Cheap to run
* VERY Reliable
* Good for either On-road/off road
* Capable of long range touring

  I want to go touring in & around Australia during the summer months, so i need a bike that will do 5,000 km + trips with minimum risk of major breakdown.  

  I'd appreciate any advice on wether this bikes up for it or if i should look at something else (within the same price range!!).  

Cheers

DR650 would certainly do...as would a KLR, NX, XTZ, even a transalp...depends really on your mix of on/off road. The beemers are still probably the best mile munchers (R80GS and R100GS)

I'd probably be doing more ON Road than Off.  If i had the $$$ then i'd be looking at a sports/tourer.  Still, I like the increased Off road oppurtunity the DR 650 offers.. More dirt for your Buck!  

I've had a KLR650, a NX650, a Transalp and a R80GS and I'm very very happy with my current bike, a DR 650. Just get some sheepskin to ease the buttache and watch the muffler side panel when you load up with panniers or it will melt!   The good thing with a DR over a sports tourer is you'll still have your licence after the ride heh heh