Having purchased a Yamaha XT600 a little while back to make do between motorbikes, I ended up keeping it even after getting a new motorbike as it proved to be so reliable.

The engine is a big single cylinder 600cc which if truth be told is quite sluggish but plenty to be getting about green lanes and off road tracks, although this is more of an endurance than a trials bike so probably not the best for big jumps.

Whilst I was actually using the motorcycle on the road it returned anywhere between 35-45 miles to the gallon depending on how it was rode. The handling capabilities of the bike on road are not the best and it can be quite hard work as the upright seating position leaves the rider bearing the full brunt of the elements.

This said though once off road the bike definitely starts to show its character and becomes a lot more fun and handles far better as its being used for what it was designed for, and this bike will allow you to comfortably ride round at relatively high off road speeds all day long.

The price of these can vary dramatically depending on whether you are looking for a nice shiny toy or just something that is functional. For a low end example around £600 would be right with mot and tax, where as newer or more concourse examples may go for up to £1500 - £2000.

The top speed was around 80mph being plenty for off road, and less temptation to speed on road given the limited capacity for the speed compared to the sports bikes I'm usually riding.

Looks wise this isn't the greatest looking machine in the world with the very square 90's design, and is very similar looking to its far more popular little brother the DT125, however it does do what its meant to do and is all road legal with working lights and indicators etc.
The indicators themselves are very durable putting up with all the abuse I've managed to give them off-road and not having broken yet and they are usually one of the first things to go.

Maintenance wise this bike surpasses its competitors by streaks. Not being as high revving as faster dirt bikes this leads to oil/filter changes and general engine maintenance having to be carried out less frequently. Around once every 1500 - 2000 miles seems to be keeping mine good, where as more tuned motorcycles can need at intervals of less than 500 miles.

Overall a great little bike as long as expectations aren't to high. It's sluggish compared to rival bikes. It does do everything it should though and does it well enough with no complaints. I've rode it through huge puddles and thick mud and it hasn't even stalled.
If your looking for thrills off road without running the risk of serious injury then one of these may be worth a look at least.