No, they are the same
Oh, I'm only quoting what I'm sure you wrote on ukgsers a while back
... the gears on the F650GS twin are higher than … the F800GS due to different sized … sprockets used in conjunction with the close ratio gearbox from the F800S and ST [road bikes]
I took that to mean the 800GS did not have the S/ST CR gearbox, but maybe I was wrong.
That made sense seeing as the 650 was pitched as more roady and the 800's characteristics are said to be more 'revvy' (not all down to power characteristics?).
As for most modern 'adv' bikes being all mouth and no trousers, I think most of us recognise it's long been a fashion on which manufactures (and mags like ABR) are capitalising and to which buyers are responding. Good luck to them all. Most 4x4s are bought for the same 'I could if I wanted to (but I probably won't)' motives. Fifteen years ago it was a 200mph sports bike, but most weren't racing.
I actually thought that compared to GS12s et al, the low-seated ~200-kilo 650 would have made a great RTW compromise (once you junk the seat). And unless you're seeking out tough racks, most so-called 'off-roading' out in the overland world is no more than dirt roads between villages which a loaded 650 will manage fine on the right tyres.
Having said all that, I happen to be following your suggestion and modifying a cheap, old road bike because in the end that's all the bike that you need. I'm not sure the ALP is any better than a good old TTR or DR, I got the impression it was a rally bike.
... after all, all bikes are fantastic aren't they!
Clearly you haven't ridden a late '70s MZ ;- ))
