I bought a 2006 dr650se and I personally love it. It is very nice on the street, and with a little skill, very fun offroad. I´ve owned a few bikes, and this is definately the best for me. On the highway it is fine if you keep in mind that it´s like an SUV of motorcycles. It is tall, lean, and weighs like 340lbs. The wind does blow it around a bit, but I have had 2 Honda CB750´s and even they drifted in the wind. As far as Air-cooled,oil-cooled, or liquid-cooled, I guess it matters on how you will be riding it. My Dr650 hasn´t overheated yet travelling up to speeds up to 75mph. I usually travel at around 70mph and there is plenty more throttle. I hit around 85mph off an on ramp not even trying to accelerate to the max. I cruise town in 2nd gear (around 30mph) and it is just at mid rpm. 3rd gear will cruise you at 35 to 45 mph. with plenty of response. I have ridden my friends 2003 honda XR650L and it is a blast but is too tall for me in the stop and go traffic. The gas tank is only 2.6 gal. The Dr´s is bigger at 3.4gal. I get around 120 miles until I hit reserve, and the honda averages around 8o miles. I have found some fun popping wheelies(ha ha) my DR will rise up in first at will, geesh I should settle down, honking on it while shifting to 2nd will also impress you. If you will be on the pavement alot and less on the dirt get a kawasaki KLR650 I´ve ridden a newer one and I like it alot on the street. It has a soft seat, small windshield, and a very predictable ride. I guess I will leave you with that. Oh yeah, I am 5´8\