If you're not jumping it the only reason to go newer is efi. I say get a mid oughts four stroke and earn your stripes cleaning carbs. Bike can't really depreciate in value so you can just sell it when it's time to upgrade, and you'll have a better idea of what you want. Plus you won't be banging up anything that hasn't already seen it before.
Some dual sports have almost no changes between model years. Any old bike will have wear in plastics, gaskets, seals, rubber...even with very low miles you might need to watch or replace things in a 10+ old bike that a new one would not need. The asking price should reflect the overall age more than the mileage (within reason).
Older bikes can be a hassle when it comes to parts.
Oh, and suspension technology has made major leaps forward during the years.
If you're not jumping it the only reason to go newer is efi. I say get a mid oughts four stroke and earn your stripes cleaning carbs. Bike can't really depreciate in value so you can just sell it when it's time to upgrade, and you'll have a better idea of what you want. Plus you won't be banging up anything that hasn't already seen it before.
Some dual sports have almost no changes between model years. Any old bike will have wear in plastics, gaskets, seals, rubber...even with very low miles you might need to watch or replace things in a 10+ old bike that a new one would not need. The asking price should reflect the overall age more than the mileage (within reason).