I had the same delima, I have now purchased a Suzuki V-Strom DL1000. I travel to central NSW in Australia and had problems whenever I saw dirt roads with the GPz1100 Kawasaki I owned previously, now it´s not a problem. I get good fuel economy with the road gearing and have no problem tackeling fire trails if needed. I am able to travel over dirt roads two up, carry my gear in Givi bags and am very comfortable. I see dirt bikes good for dirt only and not too comfortable for the long rides of 300+ km´s. A good idea would be to check out the Adventure tourers and see what you come up with.