I will put my 2 cents in here.
For a $1000 - $1500 you will get a really fun 200cc dual sport bike.
It is based on late 80's technology for the most part and the engines are really solid.
The electrics aren't as good as they could be but I really can't complain about any of it other than the headlight bulb.
The gearing is pretty low on some of the brands and a sprocket change helps the top end and eases some of the vibrations.
I paid $1400 for a 2006 Lifan LF200-GY5. (A little high but I was eager).
It was worth the money.
One thing though, you do need to be a little mechanical unless you have a dealer near by. If you are mechanical, there is a great community right here to help you out!
The flip side.
This time of year, if you are in the snow belt, you might be able to find a deal on a different/larger bike.
I just found a 2002 Suzuki DR650 with only 3200 miles for $1000 more than the Lifan. It is is in great shape. (Of course I was the first person to see it and I snatched it up before it hit the paper.) I needed something with a little more power to commute on the interstate.
(I haven't had it off road yet. The extra weight might be a little taxing
)
I have owned and rode various bikes over the past 35 years. The China bikes are good value for the money you pay.