2020 Suzuki DR650S Project Bike

The DR650 has been in production for two decades and it's still going strong. Valued highly for Round The World (RTW) adventure travel, the DR650 has a lot of history and endless stories. It's affordable, durable and it's very well supported all over the world. So we decided we wanted to dig into one and have some fun building our ultimate version to see what was possible.
This build was originally featured in issue 42: bit.ly/2issuu42q
Suzuki DR650S: bit.ly/DR650s
ProCycle: procycle.us/model/suzuki/dr650
Bridgestone Battlax AX41: bit.ly/BAax41
Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/
Seat Concepts Comfort Seat: bit.ly/2VR3SGv
Trail Tech Voyager Pro: bit.ly/2XmTTVP
Yoshimura R&D Exhaust: bit.ly/3btWg3i
Acerbis: www.acerbisusa.com/
Dubya USA: www.dubyausa.com/
Pro Moto Billet: fastway.zone/
Double Take Mirrors: www.doubletakemirror.com/
ODI Grips: odigrips.com/
#upshift_online #dr650 #suzukicycles #custommotorcycle #dualsport #dirtbike #motorcycle
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Upshift Online: The world’s fastest growing Dualsport-Adventure bike magazine featuring stunning photography from Upshift's own Simon Cudby as well as engaging adventure bike stories from our global contributors. Here at Upshift, our goal is to go beyond the ordinary.
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[@bradsanders6954]

46,000 hard miles on my 03 DR. Not one thing broke,no repairs,no shop visits,no oil burning. Advantage DR.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Sounds about right! Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@MotoVisionX]

@brad sanders Bro 😎 do you have the stock wheels? Or did you have mods done to them?

[@bradsanders6954]

@@MotoVisionX I found the complete set of 19"/17" wheels used, on ADV, so I still have the stock wheels also.....Ive ended up using the 17/19 wheels a lot.

[@dg8676]

Can’t wait to get mine

[@drfrisker]

43k on my 2013, ride more ;)

[@glennmcguire5571]

Probably the nicest looking bike i've seen. Great job.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Wow, thanks! That's high praise.... much appreciated.

[@kene6838]

My son and I rode 12,000 miles from our home in Florida across the US to the west coast. I rode my DR650 and my son on his WR 250. Besides chain , sprockets and tires it was flawless. Although the rear tire size making finding a new one suck. The WR lost a fuel pump , only issue with that one. One night in the mountains the bike got so cold the starter actually screamed trying to unstick it. I paid 3,000 for mine with 6, 000 miles on it. I’m sixty years old and am looking forward to the next one. There’s something very satisfying crossing the US on such a minimal bike.

[@jameschalfant7567]

I just bought a 2019 dr650 8 months ago After 6 months of short rides i took the snorkel out of airbox. It runs better and I'm debating opening up air box more . im happy with it so far besides the stock seat , that's a rough one .

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Outstanding! Sounds like a great trip. Thanks for watching and sharing.

[@kene6838]

James Chalfant Make sure you rejet , there are a lot of seat options out there. Ride safe.

[@ZSharkPH]

I made a few adventure bike build mistakes before the DR650. But im happy i finally have my do it all Suzuki.

[@waltz9230]

What kind of mistakes? I’m looking to buy a Drz400sm or a Dr650se to customise as my second bike so any tips would help!

[@ZSharkPH]

@@waltz9230 I don't want to bash other bikes.. But i bought bikes before the DR that didn't work for me. Either one of those would be a great choice. But if your going to do any long distance. The DR Is much better on road IMO.

[@TheCharillz23]

@@ZSharkPH I know what you mean.. my first was "the bush pig" krl650.. then wr250r... the dr holds the highway capability with the offroad fun

[@monty7026]

Having owned a 2014 DR650 for four years, and doing several light mods/upgrades with mostly ProCycle goodies, I am so impressed with this iteration. I had the same seat, rack, footpegs, and suspension. Mine was a little more road oriented, but admittedly, the final product you guys made is absolutely A1 top notch!!! Your choices were superb. Tastefully and thoroughly thought out. I can't think of one thing I would have done differently. Great job, guys!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you very much for the kind words. Appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@davebehrens9794]

2011 DR650 here and the beast is still going strong. Love its center of gravity! For me the must mods were: - SUSPENSION! (heavier springs on both ends, re-valved, Race Tech cartridge emulators) - Bash plate and Hand-guards - TIRES!! (D606 rear / MT21 front) - 14pt front sprocket Worthwhile mods: - Air-box/re-jet carb/modify slider/spring, - Magnetic drain plug/oil filter ring, - Muffler (Leo Vince) - Re-covered/padded seat (Seat Concepts) - 5.2 gal Acerbis fuel tank/fuel filter - handlebars/extensions - locktite NSU - remove engine cutoff switches - Giant Loop Mojave bags The bike is now reliable/predictable off road machine!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Sounds like a well thought out bike and it's just getting broken in. Enjoy it!

[@drozy2318]

My uncle bought this bike from you guys last year! Wanted to say thank you, never seen him so happy lol. Got to ride it as well very powerful

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Outstanding! It was great selling it to him. You could feel the excitement and appreciation for what it is. So glad to hear you are all enjoying it.

[@TheVaughnster69]

I was lucky enough to have this thing drop in my lap & did not hesitate to purchase it! I'm the third owner now & Love this bike & thank you Upshift for building it!

[@PNW-ADV]

Really well said. Maybe the best explanation iver ever heard to describe what a DR is. And why it is still relevant

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Glad you enjoyed our video.

[@ronwhitehouse7919]

I have a 2017 model, but jetted the stock carby, and did the airbox changes, and its a different bike, also went with full teknik suspension front and back. with Fastaway adventure foot pegs, I run B&B bash bars and frame guards, with a B&B rack on the back with a Yoshimura exhaust. I also have the trail tech digital speedo, I put LEDs in the headlights for better night riding, and run bridgestones for adventuring riding , I also have a set of excel moto wheels for road use, if I want to do so cruising. safari 27ltr fuel tank, which gives me 650klm plus range. over all its a completely different bike. a joy to ride on road or off.

[@petergraczyk1428]

Best dr 650 review i have seen . Great work.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! Glad you liked it.

[@jayceandjeremysadventures.4441]

I have a 98 dr350se that’s built very similar to that but in white. I ride it everywhere, single track, woods, forest roads and highways. Dr’s are amazing bikes and you can find nice low mile bikes on the cheap. My favorite mod is the homemade pannier/ exo-cage on the back of mine. There wasn’t a lot of differences between the 350 & 650, seat height and power so I went with the lighter bike for the technical riding of the PNW.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Excellent! Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@randomlyTrees]

Beautiful setup! Love the way the entire front end looks - much cleaner and modern looking than some other DR650 project bikes on KZbin. Mine is a work in progress from stock and this video has given me some more ideas what to look for. Thanks!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Outstanding! Glad we could help. Thanks for watching.

[@roncolpo5056]

I have a pretty tricked out 2014 if your looking for any input on what I did....

[@bradsanders6954]

Nice! I really do ride my DR650 on the road,its fun on paved backroads,and I also ride it on any dirt road a lot. Great 50/50 bike as stated.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for watching. Enjoy that DR650. It's one of the best all around motorcycles ever produced.

[@nonjaninja4904]

These aren't outdated or anything, like some people suggest. They just work. Americans need to get away from the newer is always better mindset.

[@BigDmike24]

I agree

[@kentuckyjustice1408]

I put frame guards on the sides, case savers on the sides of my engine, and a case saver front sprocket cover. My most recent addition was an oil cooler guard that sticks and such can't get through. One of my biggest fears is busting a hole in my engine or oil system. I really like the way those wheels look. Coloring that swingarm adds that custom eye candy. Great looking Bush Pig.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Smart additions for sure. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@jasonlawrence8302]

you gotta really love your bike to put 5-6K into it and still have a value of half of what you are in it! the bike in totally stock form is already badass, a few little mods and a pipe and you are ready to rock and roll!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

A video about leaving your DR650 stock would be pretty boring. And to be clear, we don't disagree. The DR650 is exceptional dead stock. BUT... there some great products out there that make it even better. We took this bike as far as you can with equipment that actually improves the bikes performance. You could easily pair that back or edit the list down to just a few things that are a priority for you. But again, for the sake of producing an article for Upshift Magazine and and this video, it makes sense to do it all at once.

[@Jcrause]

That’s a awesome build, also love all the plugs to these great company’s they really woke this dr650 up 🤯

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! This has been one of our favorite bikes for sure. We are very fortunate to work with some great companies in this business.

[@spacelamaglama]

this is an amazing build, I want a DR650 now!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

They are such an underrated bike. Highly recommended.

[@timsilva1944]

Sweet! Very similar to my own DR. Suspension mods are a must if riding off road. I used Race Tech springs and internals on both ends to keep the cost in check. ProCycle is an excellent resource! They built my 18" rear wheel too. I got my 2012 with 750 miles on it for $4k, so I didn't mind spending extra coin to get it right. Currently over 14k mi. These bikes are great!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Sounds like you locked in a great deal. Thanks for watching!

[@powmanmoto]

That bike looks really good. The tank looks smoother more like stock like it fits better and doesn't stick out like usually Dr tank upgrades. Alot of good mods to learn more about. 👍

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We really loved this bike. Thanks for watching!

[@chipverner5011]

Great video and beautiful build. I've got a DR with a similar build (though not nearly as pretty) and, having owned quite a few more modern euro bikes, it's the one that I'll hold on to. People make comments about the dates tech, but it just plain works and is cheap to own and super reliable.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Exactly right. It doesn't have to be the latest and greatest to be good.

[@VizziMoto]

It would truly be amazing if you guys made a package deal with every product you have added to the bike. I understand many mods are one off, but everything that is purchasable. Would love to support you guys.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We have dreamed about that. It’s definitely an idea we have thought about and may get close to something along those lines. But we are still a ways out. Email us and we can put something together for you special. [e-mail]

[@donbraham411]

Best looking DR I’ve ever seen

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! Very kind of you to say.

[@stevef3515]

Hey Steve here in Australia,sunny Queensland. Inspired by the design from the mods done and as such will be placing an order for a new DR650 within the next few weeks. Definitely going with the trail tech. Planning a all blokes bike trip to Cape York at the tip of Australia and doing the telegraph track and many other tracks around up there. Look it up its great riding up there and just gotta be aware of the crocodiles in the creeks.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Uhhhh... Crocodiles? Hmmmm Thank you for watching and commenting. The Voyager Pro is awesome. Especially when your friends have them as well so you have a real time view of where they are in relation to you.

[@iridemotorbikes]

Super nice build, you guys did a great job, the DR seems to be a sweet ride after you guys got done with it! Love the content, keep up the awesome work! 😎👍🏼👍🏼

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for the kind words. The DR is a great platform to begin with. Simple, durable, capable and affordable. Even with just a couple of the tweaks we made that make the most sense for you and the bike really becomes something amazing. Thank you for watching.

[@barrykery1175]

What a great video. I'd love to have that bike. All great upgrades ! Barry

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you Barry!

[@jaconmojica4452]

Awesome setup. When I get out of the military and go back to Idaho I may need to get one of these.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Definitely an Idaho slayer. Stop by and say hello!

[@ricardorgomez]

I bought a very adventure-spec'd DR650 from someone which was about 90% of what you had including the Cogent rear shock, big gas tank and some great other add-ons. I added a Renzaco seat which was amazing and a taller fairing which was made from a person in Australia. I bought some parts from the Procycle.us people and they couldn't be more pleasant to deal with. I loved riding that DR650 and took it on a 3000 trip from San Francisco to Mexico along with several 1000-mile rides along the Pacific and Western regions of the U.S. The only issue I had was that, I think it was pre-2005 models, had bad head gaskets and were prone to leaking. More annoying than anything really bad. I applied some gasket sealer and that largely fixed the issue. Other than that, the bike was bullet-proof. I hadn't ridden since moving to New York but was looking for a new bike and though the Yamaha Tenre was going to be it. Your project bike has re-igniting an interest in the DR650. It would cost about $4k to upgrade a stock bike including the exhaust and wheel upgrades. Which is still less expensive than a Tenre if you get a used DR650 and you have parts available everywhere. But again, bullet-proof. I just hope the exhaust upgrades would give another 5 - 10hp. Fully packed at altitude, you pretty much have the throttle fully opened and doing maybe 60mph. Heck, fully packed and in a strong headwind, you're lucky to do 60mph. Not a big deal. Just a little annoying. Thanks for the video. The DR650 is back on the table!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for watching. The DR is an excellent bike. Hard to argue the value.

[@Mightycaptain]

For those of looking the cogent Mojave pro rear shock and front DDC with new springs is worth every penny. So is that TM40 carb. The rest there is so many options. It's what makes the bike so great. It can fit a thousand different needs with the good starting platform and excellent aftermarket variety.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Well said! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@kuladeeluxe]

Love the look and execution of this DR. That would be my choice if i was a round the world type.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. Much apprecaited.

[@mt1885]

Awesome looking DR650!!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! It was a lot of fun to build.

[@TheChindoboi]

Love the dr650 and the mods. Looks sick!!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! Appreciate you watching.

[@davea9502]

What a mighty fine motorcycle!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It was pretty amazing.

[@MaxwellBenson80]

That's a slick ride!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! It was a lot of fun.

[@SecondHalfofLife]

That's a great looking DR. Really love those subtle styling changes you made. Just makes it look a little more modern and sleek. You said some key things here that make me want to try it as an adventure bike for something like the Continental Divide trail: Fun, reliable, and it just works. I imagine service intervals are better than many of the similar European bikes and it's probably easier to work on than something more modern. Great video.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

This is a very easy bike to own. Cost of ownership is low. Parts and service are available anywhere in the world. Deep aftermarket support. Put some thought into setting it up properly for your needs and off you go.

[@janisvinters8797]

Seen this bike like this are awesome.. this bike are a legend.. even when wen we had XR650R what are like dinosaur - dying off.. but DR stays.. Thanks for review.. Helped me with decision to sell it to free up some space in garage or to keep it.. seems like this Legend will be for keeping and upgrading it to become an a savage bush pig as it's soul demands... Enough for a pitch roads on SuMo tires. :)

[@joshdoddadbod]

Over the years I'm pretty sure I've watched this video 50 times lol

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Well shoots! We appreciate that.

[@hiltonmcconnell2563]

On my second DR650 and loving it put a 20 liter gas tank on, skid plate, center stand, heated grips, rear rack to put my 46 liter trekker hard box on. Been doing some all round riding dirt roads, highways and towns and villages, filled the tank then put 300 Km on and could only get 11.78 liters of gas in, that is 3.8 liters per hundred km, so that will give me over 500 Km per tank of gas, No more worrying about looking for gas stations, also have a KTM 390 Adventure which is a great bike, but the DR650 is the winner when want an all round bike that puts a big smile on my face every time I take it out. If you want fancy and all the bells and whistles go KTM 390 Adventure, but for a simple fun bike I chose the DR650.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Sounds like you have a proper ADV Thumper that is going to serve you well for a long time. Thank you for watching.

[@vwsyncro]

I’ve had a DR for 8 years now, have taken it all over the place. I got to ride a 390 Adventure this weekend and I was pleasantly surprised. That engine is great! It would require some mods before I would consider it as an adventure bike. Lower pegs, higher handlebars, and more suspension travel. Other than that, great bike. If KTM makes an R version with spoked wheels and long travel suspension they’ve got a winner.

[@simoneosci3493]

AMAZING! Congrats, great work here.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you very much!

[@1969tonksy]

Awesome looking machine with great reliabilty.. We need these back in the UK Suzuki GB....

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It really is a great bike. Affordable and reliable is the key. Really unfortunate that they are not available in Europe.

[@pedropaez5142]

You made a very nice upgrade changing the carb to one a little more responsive and the front suspension is also important. Nice appeal!! 👍🏽 I had a '96 DR650... Kick start, but I was young back then..!! 😁 Now my son has a 2013 one and I can tell it still has that balanced feeling and reliability of the Suzuki motorcycles. Excellent bike!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

They are rock solid.

[@EwePeople]

This bike could change my life. I could be the new Tobi. You should give it to me. Seriously, I need it!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We will take your request into consideration. ;)

[@francoistaljaard8322]

This is such a popular bike, and with a great following of people who all customize them. It would be great if you can do a follow up video, share the experience of how these mods worked or not, or how the bike performance in different terrains. Thanks for the video, professional and insightful 👍👍👍

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We did ride it quite a bit, but it had to go down the road to a new owner before we could make anymore videos with it. Unfortunately, as a media business, we do not have the ability to keep bikes very long before they have to go to make room for new bikes.

[@pdx650]

Great presentation. Thanks for taking the time to produce it. When I can afford to get one, I would either go for a dr650or klr650 by kawasaki. I have never ridden too far from home. I do have a ‘98 honda vfr800fi interceptor and I love it. I drove over 650 miles round trip to get it. I do know that dual sport is a different world of motor biking and I am not a person who cares much about going fast. I would to explore some off road places sometimes. Excellent video.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for watching!!

[@AftaabGulam]

Stick with the DR650 over the KLR, it's a much better bike in the same price range

[@d_manoil1647]

Beauty of a bike

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you!

[@lourdesunate1413]

NICE BIKE MAN!!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thanks! Appreciate the comment.

[@caseyholthaus6626]

Kudos to Upshift for taking the time for all the reply’s. You guys rock!! 💥

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We do try. We do get behind at times, but if someone takes the time to reach out, the least we can do is respond. Thank you for your support!

[@rupertsuzuki3376]

Great video, very well done. I love the build, the black rims and swingarm absolutely grab my attention…and probably my wallet soon too, lol. A stand alone video on the TrailTech Voyager would really appeal to me as well as I’ve been on the fence for awhile, this one looks like a clean, nice install and would love to see more on it. Wicked bike but I was surprised that the stock rubber foot peg mounts were kept though.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We are huge fans of the Voyager Pro. We have written about it quite a bit and we will have a pretty in depth piece coming out about it soon in Issue 82 of Upshift Magazine. We do need to make some videos though. We like it so much we are very comfortable selling it in our store. The buddy tracking feature is key if your riding buddies get on the same page. It's really quite intuitive and very rugged as well. If I remember correctly, we had been waiting on the footpeg mounts we wanted for a long time. And we had to get on with it and make the video.

[@seanfrashier631]

Beautiful bike.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! Appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@meandkg]

badass bike!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you very much. It has been a lot of fun for sure.

[@walterfabianodeandradebenn1177]

Essa é uma Trail raiz é um trator se manteve até hoje clássica até hoje essa moto a XT 600 2 Tratores de moto saíram de linha aqui no Brasil a anos só deixaram saudades! Saudações de Curitiba Paraná Brasil 🤝👍

[@gregorymottaagostiniagosti1604]

NITERÓI/ICARAÍ presente, eu um feliz proprietário de uma Bandit 1250 S , SUZUKI é top , street e trail.

[@jameslowder1274]

Last year i did a tour with Ecuador Freedom Motorcycle Rentals, and my ride was a 2020 DR650. I was quite nervous about this tour, as the last time I had ridden was 18 years ago, and I had suffered a broken neck, and 5 compression fractures in my back. The DR felt like an old friend, and I quickly got over any anxiety that I had.The bike was extensively modified for adventure riding, because that’s their thing. There were 4 of us on this tour, and within the 7 days of riding, we went from an elevation of 9,000’, down to sea level. And back. There were 2 of us on DR650’s, 1 Husky 701, and a Yamaha 250. The DR’s performed flawlessly throughout the ride. The Husky seemed to start a bit slower but with the torque, and HP difference, it probably needed that extra crank to fire up. The only complaint from the Yamaha rider was that he wished there was another gear during road travel. So all in all, I would not hesitate to buy another Suzuki, as I have owned 2 DRZ 400’s in the past. I highly recommend that adventure riders check out their website, and don’t hesitate to book a tour. It was worth every penny, as they cover all bases to make your tour an amazing experience.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Freedom Motorcycle Tours is a great outfit. Glad to hear you got back on the bike and enjoyed yourself. We are big fans of the DR650. Such a versatile bike. Thank you for watching.

[@glennmcguire5571]

Why can't the manufacturer's sell the bikes like you have done to this DR650. Awesome bike.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

There are a lot of reasons actually. There are a ton of regulations and manufacturing issues with bringing a bike like this to market. Thank you for watching.

[@bengraham6672]

I would love to try one of these. I bought the 2020 ktm 500 exc as i do more aggressive single trails here in Aus, but I'd love to have a go on a good DR650. If you bring one to NSW I'd be happy to let you do a comparison test with mine. Good video!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thanks for watching. We would love to get down to NSW to ride.

[@diegohernandezguerra6571]

Looks awesome I’m sure it’s a super fun motorcycle to ride!!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It's been a blast.

[@jasonloke2219]

I ve got a DR. Thanks for sharing

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for watching.

[@steelmilkjug]

Buying a Stock DR650 is like buying a baseline Jeep Wrangler. Yes, it can do highway. Yes it can do offroad. It's decent at both. But it's not the best at anything. A dedicated crawler or a baja truck is better off road. An F250 is better for hauling a camper or doing street shows. It's not a Nascar truck on the track..... but it can do a little bit of everything, and that's what makes it so amazing, even if you "have" to double the price in lifts, and suspension, and gearing, and tires, and wheels, and accessories to make it compete in any one specialty..... it's about the journey and the customization, and the mods. It's not built to be the best. It's built to be simple, reliable, and work in the greatest variety of environments....It's built to explore everywhere. How you build it and where you take it is up to you. It's a "DR650 THING"

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Well said! And who wants to watch a video on doing as little as possible to a motorcycle. Take what you want from it or nothing at all. But complaining about seams counter productive.

[@bradsanders6954]

Suspension is the key thing to re-do on a DR. Ive tried the modded shock and nope. The Cogent is for sure the way to go..from there it's all personalization,everybody wants it their way.

[@vwsyncro]

I hear you, I’ve been on that journey for 8 years. The DR is a beast.

[@dankramer9931]

Did you stay with the stock springs in the front and just drop in the DDC cartridges or did you go to a heavier spring ? I have an 01 DR650 and this summer is suspension upgrade time and I am going Cogent so was interested in the front combo you used in this build . Thanks !!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

The fork cartridges and the shock came with the correct springs for our weight spec etc.

[@bladerunner7551]

An awesome motorcycle video I watched in a long long time

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for the kind words.

[@martyparadise1]

Just picked up a 2003 DR 650 yesterday. I’m excited to learn it laggy carburetor, though even though it’s new.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

The lag is universal until you do something about it. Several ways to skin that can.

[@ThedudeAbides-ss9ig]

Damn this bike is beautiful..

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! It was a lot of fun too. Wish we could have held on to it longer.

[@ericpelton4157]

I’d like more info on where to get that fairing and what’s that Acerbis thing under the headlight?

[@OZD-mb2bs]

Good video!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you! Appreciate you watching a commenting.

[@Yenko1992]

Cool video definitely has me interested in one I really want to get a dual purpose bike here in Idaho I can have a lot of fun!!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

The most fun... Idaho is prime time for a dualsport. Thanks for watching.

[@modshiftmotion]

Excellent build. You guys thought of everything on this one. Super cool.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We definitely went all out. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@caseyholthaus6626]

That’s funny, literally both of your videos you each put out encouraged me to mr buy my DR650 @modshiftmotion and @upshift I am in prices right now of mocking this build as we speak. Did the gold protaper bars shown on modshiftmotion’s build. I appreciate both of you for putting your videos together. Cheers!

[@modshiftmotion]

@@caseyholthaus6626 Hey Casey, congrats on moving forward with the DR! Glad to help the inspiration, appreciate you sharing your thoughts. Keep us in the loop, I'd love to see your bike when it's all ready. Take care.

[@curtistackley4529]

Perfect build. Thx for sharing. What bar risers are those? Thank you!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

I honestly can not remember what we used for sure.... but I'm pretty sure those are the Zeta 30mm risers in black.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Make sure to check out the new DR650 we just finished. Video - bit.ly/22dr650 Magazine - bit.ly/3issu81q

[@levi-jb7in]

When will yall release the graphics kit on your site? I dont see this kit listed.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Unfortunately we will not be selling this kit. It's such a specific design that will only work on these exact parts that we would be setting ourselves up to fail. Plus... graphics mounted directly to plastic fuel tanks do not last very long.

[@antwan37]

Probably the best bike to go on a RTW trip. It would be my choice, if I ever do it.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

They certainly have a lot of advantages for RTW travel.

[@antwan37]

@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE One big advantage over the big trail adventure bikes is, in case of a breakdown, two men can put it on top of a pick up truck to get to the next town. With a GS bmw , an Africa twin or KTM adv, I'm not sure it is doable.

[@tomysmolic]

It looks awesome. After this video I'm thinking to buy one for myself 👍

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It's very good. We are looking forward to putting a lot more miles on it.

[@Shade_Tree_Mechanic]

Wow, that is an excellent build. I'm looking at getting a DR650 for my first bike

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We are big fans. It’s an easy bike to own in the grand scheme of things.

[@ToxicGamer86454]

Better get it now before they are gone

[@orangefuture4910]

Id love to import one or 3 new ones into the UK if anyone has done this. They haven been available in UK new in a good few years

[@hailwood900]

My DR is set up almost identically to this one. Lucky me, I bought it that way, and so paid a fraction of the new price for all that stuff. It's a VERY capable machine, with one exception. Gearing. I have to chose between single track gearing and street gearing. Here in WI, woods riding can be really tight and I don't like having to slip the clutch constantly. I don't need six speeds, I just need the five I have to be spaced further apart. Yes, I see Pro-Cycle has a wide ratio kit, but holy cow, there has to be a spending limit somewhere, LOL. So close... yet still happy.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Agreed it is a very capable machine and very reliable. Enjoy it.

[@gartmanxxx]

Great job on the review.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you for watching!

[@restylethorn]

I am a 2009 DR650 owner. I have an Acerbis skid plate. It looks as though there may be holes custom drilled in yours. Is this the case?

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Yes, the Acerbis skid plate now comes with a dimple pattern in the plastic as a guide to drill out holes if you desire. And we decided to do just that.

[@fisherman6794]

Hey guys, is there anywhere I can buy a tanks graphics kit like that? I have the same tank on my dr650

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Afraid not. That was a one-off that we produced for the project. Selling them would be problematic as they do not hold up well when installed directly on the tank like that. We would be creating a warranty problem and some very unhappy customers.

[@tempestandacomputer6951]

Those graphics do a lot to make that bike look nicer! If i didn't know any better, i'd say that's a husky!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

That's very kind of you to say. Thank you!

[@gonzalodelatorrevargas185]

Excelente moto. Muy buenas modificaciones.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Gracias Amigo!

[@chrispawlus1226]

I want one!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It's a lot of fun.

[@alexandergriffith9942]

Love this video. Have probably watched 3 times now. Tall rider here. What kind of risers? Does it help change the ergonomics or just push the bars closer to the rider? Heard good things about Rox pivot risers and peg lowering kits.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

ROX does make some very good risers. And you can get them so that you can change over to a 1 1/8" bar which we highly recommend. Depending on how high you go... just make sure you have plenty of throttle cable and brake line as you can start to go past there limits from the factory.

[@alexandergriffith9942]

@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE would some standard risers and the Evo ADV high bar be a better alternative?

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We really don't like the ProTaper ADV bar. We prefer an more motocross/offroad style bar. The back sweep on the ADV bar is just awkward.

[@alexandergriffith9942]

@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE Thank you!

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I’m excited to see the upcoming DR build

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Just waiting on parts. It's been a slow roll.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE no hurry!!! I’m sure it’ll be a ripper when it’s done!!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We are looking forward to it for sure.

[@lingkheyshing]

I really like how it look .

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It rides just as good too. So much fun.

[@clubstyleridahd4695]

I want to build one just like this.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Such a fun bike. Highly recommended.

[@SolomonsMartialArts]

How much does cost to do the suspension and seat only I only want those 2 mods I think that would be a good dualsport for me i like the dr650 but the seat and suspension sucks

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

There are links to all of the suppliers in the description below as well as a full story on this bike in Issue 42 of Upshift Magazine which is also linked below. We don't put parts pricing in our KZbin videos because prices often times change. But we do try to give you the tools to find the most recent information.

[@monty7026]

I put a Seat Concepts (like this one) on my DR and it was the fix!. They are less expensive than most other aftermarket seat companies and every bit the quality and comfort (great people to deal with, as well). ProCycle is THE place to shop for all good things DR. Check 'em out! Also consider the footpegs and rack they use here in this video. They happen to be what I chose for my DR. I think you will be very pleased with those two items.

[@SPENJERE]

Nice review, thank you.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

You are welcome. Thank you for watching!

[@SouthernOutfitter]

I need a bike like that great job!!

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It's an awesome bike. That's one we wish we could have kept in our fleet forever.

[@manuelcardona1166]

Awesome DR! which graphics does your bike has on the tank?

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you. We actually developed those in house and had our contract printer print them off for us.

[@chrishutchinson8757]

I would love to know where this bike is now and if it would be for sale…this is a specimen of an adventure bike.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It is in private hands being enjoyed to the fullest. We appreciate the kind words.

[@TheVaughnster69]

😉🏍

[@attaullahkhan9348]

I think this is Predator 650 . Love this modified bike Ammmaaaaaazzzingggg

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you!

[@thomasfiedler5176]

The msrp new is 7,199 an out the door it was 7,810 an change. Just bought a 2021 from my local suzuki dealer. Love the bike. Almost exactly the same bike aside from color an decals as my 1997 model was. Only difference between the 2021 model an the previous models is they added emission stuff to it an a non-vented gas cap an the tank vents to a charcoal canister on it

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Enjoy it. Fortunately, there is a strong aftermarket for you to get it just how you want it.

[@morley3810]

I've seen a bunch of videos recently featuring the BDRs. Mostly the guys do these with huge BMW/Triumph/KTM1190 suburbatanks and they can make some really quite tame offroad conditions look sketchy as heck. I think this DR or similar would be worlds better for actual adventure riding like that. Not as good at cruising to Starbucks perhaps...

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

The DR650 can certainly take on the BDR's confidently.

[@ksmalls3785]

I don’t want to build one, I just want to ride it. I’ll buy this one.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Maybe we will sell it at some point.

[@ksmalls3785]

UPSHIFT ONLINE well I’m serious

[@mal-wx6tu]

The DR650 like the KLR 650 did until Kawasaki killed it off, provide affordable riding for the masses, and the aftermarket is massive for both, it's $1000s more for the competition.

[@bseidem5112]

But isn't there a real positive getting on a bike you know is real quality? Vs DR or KLR?

[@6806goats1]

Way to go Idaho! Thought you were out riding near the Tetons but with a Carl's Cycle plate surround I'm not sure now. I have a house near Idaho Falls but I'm currently overseas. Guess I better call up a dealer and get one on order or find a good used one. Was gonna go with a new KLR, this one is much lighter.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Yes sir! This was shot not too far away from Boise actually. Our headquarters is in Eagle. The KLR has it's place, but we definitely prefer the DR. We are building another one right now. Probably a few more months before we can publish it though.

[@89unica]

Is there an estimate what all the mods cost? Just curious.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

We don't publish pricing because those change over time and people just get pissy about it. Somewhere in the $4K to $5K range depending on how well you track down bargains etc.

[@queenslander954]

I did this with my DR , I made every mod possible & spent shitloads .. and it turned out pretty good until I road my mates T700 .. I shouldn’t have done that .

[@elliotwoods3040]

It looks great. Reminds me of the Norden.

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

When we finished it and took it out to photograph it. We made the same observation. Thanks for watching.

[@weldweld5629]

Beautiful machine 👍👍

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you. It has been a blast.

[@manugrend]

Fantastic upgrades! Can you call it a DR650 after all these changes? 😅😅 One thing that I think would have made this video more complete is a rundown of the costs of all the different upgrades. I feel it's a bit useless to mention how the bike is cheap compared to the others, and then not mention/list the cost of the all the different upgrades. A pity as it would have made the video a "useful" video rather than just a "showoff" one. I hope my suggestion/comment wasn't too negative, just felt it was worth mentioning. 👍

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

It is absolutely a DR650. The point was not to show off but rather to show what is possible. The DR650 is a world bike with parts and service available anywhere you go, anywhere in the world. It's an affordable and durable platform that can be made into what you need it to be for you. We went above and beyond with this one because we can. It's up to you to decide if any of these modifications would be valuable to you and fit within your budget. We hear you on prices. This is a common complaint. But this video was made 3 years ago now. While the information is still viable... the prices definitely are not the same. As frustrated as you might be that we don't have prices included, I can guarantee you would be way more frustrated with prices that are 10% to 30% lower than todays prices. This video is meant to be a companion to the article in Upshift Magazine where we dive into more detail. And we include links to all the brands involved in both the video description and in the article. You have the power!

[@mobydick126]

Hi, great bike. How do you compare ergonomics against DRZ? I am wandering, for a tall rider (6'2") if DR is quite smaller than a DRZ?

[@JohnDoe-yq9ml]

Dude I’m 6’3 and this bike is plenty. It’s massive and 10 inches higher than my crf450r

[@mobydick126]

@@JohnDoe-yq9ml thanks

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

The DR650 will be a roomier bike for you for sure. And you may also benefit from a Seat Concepts seat as they put some time and energy into the ergos vs stock.

[@mobydick126]

@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE I need to try both. I like the DR, but on Europe there is not só easy to source suspension and carb upgrades as in USA and Austrália. Thanks.

[@JohnDoe-yq9ml]

@@mobydick126 yes there is just order from pro cycles I think it’s called can’t remember they have everything dr650. I got a bunch of stuff from them many years ago. I’ll link it hold up

[@bradsanders6954]

Sargent seat on mine...........sooooo nice. 2019 YZ450 front fender is good also. (525 chain lasts longer)

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Heard good things about Sargent seats. We ride Seat Concepts seats. Local made in Idaho brand with superior foam technology.

[@MrRonyag]

Love it great job

[@UPSHIFT_ONLINE]

Thank you very much. We appreciate you watching.