2024 Suzuki DR650S: Skip The Adventure Bike! Buy this Dual Sport Instead! In-Depth Review!

The Suzuki DR650S is a throwback bike, but it still has a lot to offer if you're looking for a fun, go anywhere bike! Is it an adventure bike replacement? That's up to you! See it for yourself at Macleans Sports here: www.macleanssp...

[@hegemonictrader45]

I love my 2023 DR650! I put 6,200 miles on it this year. Everything from commuting to work, moto camping trips, single track, fire roads etc. The bush pig does it all!

[@20TIL6]

5 years ago I bought a 2013 with 250 miles on it for $5k USD total. It already had a complete FMF exhaust on it and it sounds really good. In the time I have had it, maybe I've spent another $2k on stuff like a softer seat, lower pegs, stronger handlebars, stronger hand-guards, bigger tank, better off road tires, bash plates, luggage rack, etc etc. I am still far below $10k into it and it's perfect. I wouldn't want anything else.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@albertbuenaventura8443]

Have mine, 25 years old, still running great. Always brought me back home.

[@chlodowech]

I bought a DR650 yesterday. In my youth I rode fast Sports bikes. Then, three years ago I bought a Royal Enfield Himalayan because it was so damn cheap. I really enjoyed the Himalayan. The little tractor took me places I never thought I would go on a motorcycle. However, I live about an hour riding from the Rockies. The Himalayan forced me to take the back roads because of a lack of speed to take the highway without hesitation. Today I put about 200 miles on the DR and it was glorious. What a sweet bike this is! No nonsense, only what you need. Granted, the seat is awful, but as of this moment, I'm in love.

[@FL-Kaiman]

I got the interceptor and was going to make a scrambler, ended up looking for one of these instead

[@earthwormjim3269]

You should consider the new Himalayan 450, it has a new engine that makes 40hp and a 6-speed gearbox so it's much better on highways.

[@davidbelley7911]

@@FL-Kaiman late on this post. I was about to do the same with my Interceptor 2021 but end up buying a DR brand new. I'll have it next week. How do you like your until now?

[@danielkoster8510]

​@@davidbelley7911 How's that DR been treating you ? I've got an interceptor myself, looking to maybe change.

[@davidbelley7911]

Honestly until now the Dr is the bike I had the most fun with. Zero regret and I look forward for spring to use it again

[@0HARE]

I agree totally. The DR650 is a super capable and reliable dual sport bike. It reminds me a lot of my ‘06 Kawasaki KLR650. Single cylinder, simple, very capable & reliable. Mine has been a daily rider for me for the past 17 years, as my commuter bike. With 80,000+ miles on the odometer, she still runs & handles like brand new. Get you one!

[@thr0w407]

Hellll yeah, I've got an '01 KLR650. It is the best.

[@Hasan-jf7by]

KLR is also fine but much heavier than DR.

[@trevorjameson3213]

The DR650 is an awesome bike. I bought my first one new in '05, sold it in '20 and bought a new '21 model. I love this model and always have. It's a great around town bike, back roads bike, twisties, whatever. And it's also a very good off-road bike and I ride it on some pretty gnarly 4x4 mountain trails in Colorado. I discovered many years ago how great this bike really is and I wouldn't have anything else. It's also bulletproof reliable. I had my '05 for 15 years and never had a single issue with it mechanically and it never broke down or left me stranded.

[@RichyRich-eo9uk]

Bought my MIGHTY DR 650 last spring and I loooove it! I'm returning to riding after 30 years and am thrilled. Such a fun bike. Paved, Dirt, Gravel, and trail. The DR can do it all. Also, if the apocalypse or EMT attack comes. She'll still run - haha.

[@slednut2000]

Bought mine in 2019, 25000 km later and runs like a champ. Bought a new Vstrom 1050 but I'm not getting rid my mighty girl just in case.

[@RichyRich-eo9uk]

@@slednut2000 nice! How do u like the Vstrom? I'm considering that bike as my next purchase? I'm not getting rid of the Mighty DR but like u want a tandem to choose from.

[@slednut2000]

2023 1050 vstrom. Base model with the alloy rims. It's indescribable. Effortless power, fantastic wind protection, cruise control, zero vibrations, perfect upright ride position and incredible handling. I don't plan on off-roading it so the tubeless wheels are perfect. Great suspension on bumpy roads, maybe even smoother than the DR because of the weight. I'm 6' 2" tall, added a 20 mm handle bar riser to straighten me up. That's the only mod I can think of to improve this bike. Reliable and reasonably priced. I should be a suzuki salesman. 😂.

[@RichyRich-eo9uk]

@@johnc5023 mostly joking, but that's good to know

[@itsbillyjoe7792]

If your worried if it can keep up with 80 mile an hour traffic, don’t, this bike can go and has no problem on major highways 🎉

[@SuninSanDiego]

What no one seems to appreciate is how well the DR650 handles badly maintained roads. I mainly use mine for street riding and I live in an area with really bad roads with lots of half arsed patches, potholes, divots, etc... I've had a couple of road biased adventure bikes and it's pretty rough riding due to the limited suspension travel. On the DR650 it's a cakewalk as it just floats over everything. The suspension even stock can just soaks up the bumps, holes, and bad patch jobs, you notice them but it's not jolting like adventure bikes.

[@bseidem5112]

Where do you live?

[@SWATT101]

I moved to the sticks and bought a DR for logging roads to complement my 12 Harley...could not be happier with the purchase!

[@foxtrotbravo1744]

Same, except to compliment a 2015 Triumph Thunderbird, I moved near lots of trails, was missing out.

[@tarjas]

Good overview of an often under appreciated bike. With a little of smart customization you can end up with a very capable off road biased adventure bike that can cruise at highway speeds if required. And unlike many of the larger adv bikes you can pick it up on you own when you drop it. And nothing ever seems to break when it is dropped. If you need one bike to do it all it would be hard to find a better choice than the mighty DR.

[@TrustyZ900]

Bought a new black and blue '17 DR 650. Took it everywhere. Kept it totally stock and it still performed brilliantly. Put 15k trouble free miles on it, but traded it and another bike for a new Z900RS. The DR was a blast on backroad 2 lane highways and occasional motocamping. Seen a video of an old man that had 145k miles on his. He carried it behind his motorhome and traveled the US and Canada. Should have never sold it. Ran out of room in my garage. When they're gone, they'll be missed.

[@Sam-xt5gb]

They’ve been around for 30 years for a reason

[@PeterLoweOne]

This is true!

[@Richaag]

Since Kawasaki updated the KLR to fuel injection, they outsell the DR bikes a dozen to one, at least here in the states…. and you can get a KLR for roughly the same price. A big limitation to this bike is the tiny fuel tank (even smaller on the California model). You’re not going too far off road with barely 3 gallons of gas. I’m honestly surprised Suzuki still sells these because I haven’t seen one on the road for years.

[@Sam-xt5gb]

@@Richaag it’s anecdotal but I do see more DR’s than KLR’s where I live. It would be great if there was an update but they don’t really need to. People mod the hell out of their DR’s as soon as they get them, which is a reflection of their need for an update but also the desirability of the platform that people want.

[@angelsmalls7044]

But not available in Netherlands and most/all other European countries 😢

[@je7647]

​@@Sam-xt5gbthe 400 is exponentially more popular than the 650 just in general

[@stigsy5609]

I bought this in October 1985 and had it for 20 years. I liked the on- and easy off-road options. This is no hard enduro and no bike for traveling the world but it serves as a nice commuter and gravel bike. Enjoy.

[@RoadAndTrailNet]

The DR650SE is a fun bike to ride in a variety of conditions. Although not perfect, I think the DR650SE is a good all around or 50/50 dual sport bike, especially for the money. It’s fun to ride on a paved, twisty back road, and it’s a good bike for exploring gravel / logging roads and easier trails. I've owned many motorcycles including other dual sports, and I've been happy with my 2010 DR650SE which I've put over 27,000 km on. The bike has been mostly trouble-free. The clutch safety switch gave me a bit of trouble, but I easily resolved it with cleaning and lubricating. The starter motor started making a squawking noise at around 16,000 km, so I had to remove it and lubricate the end-cap bearing which solved the problem. Other than that, the bike has just required routine maintenance, which I perform myself and is relatively simple and easy to do. I'm still running the original chain and sprockets, but the front sprocket is showing wear. I thought the stock tires were fine for pavement and FSRs, however the stock tires are poor on slippery trails (wet grass, mud, etc.). After wearing out the stock tires, I went to a TKC80 front and a Heidenau K60 rear. When the rear K60 wore out, I replaced it with a TKC80. I'm currently running an AX41 front and the TKC80 rear (which is almost done and I will replace it with an AX41). I've been satisfied with all the replacement tires. I preferred the K60 rear over the TKC80 rear on pavement, but I preferred the TKC80 rear over the K60 off pavement. I've found the front TKC80 and the front AX41 about equal. I replace and balance the tires myself. The seat is rather uncomfortable for extended sit-down riding, but it's ok for shorter rides or for rides where you're moving around or standing up frequently. My bike is completely stock except for the tires and a few added accessories: SW-Motech centre stand, skid plate and rear rack, plus a RAM mount for my GPS. The reviewer has made some good points about the bike and the advantages of dual sports in general, but he has also made some assumptions here, like the cost of replacement OEM parts. For example, the prices for OEM replacement mirrors and turn signals are actually quite high: $117 US for a mirror, $75 US for a turn signal (Suzuki Parts Nation), and the prices are even higher in Canada. The MSRP is on the low side compared to some motorcycles, but unfortunately, that doesn't necessarily hold true for replacement parts. I highly recommend the bike. It's a good all-around bike, and it's a lot cheaper and a lot lighter than most adventure bikes. I've done a complete write-up on my personal website.

[@hibob841]

If an OEM part seems wildly overpriced (or even if it doesn't), check the aftermarket. That's especially relevant for mostly-universal parts like mirrors and signals! $117 for a single mirror? Nah...buy a PAIR of Doubletakes for around $30 more (and they're practically impossible to break, and everything but the glass is lifetime-warrantied). I usually wait until I bust a stock mirror and then upgrade. I don't go out of my way to bust the stock one, though...consciously ;) $75 for a giant floppy 1980's halogen turn signal? Holy heck...I paid $60 apiece for some Rizomas and it felt justified; they're slim, gorgeous and incredibly bright.

[@RoadAndTrailNet]

@@hibob841I agree with your advice to look to the aftermarket for some parts, which was what I did when I had to replace a mirror and a turn signal on my wife's DR200SE (same mirror and similar turn signal as those on the DR650). The point I was trying to make is that in the video it was stated that the OEM parts (like the mirrors and turn signals) were inexpensive, which they're not.

[@nerychristian]

Is it good on the highway? Do those tires wear out more quickly than tires that street motorcycles normally have?

[@RoadAndTrailNet]

@@nerychristian The stock tires work well on the pavement, and they’re fine for gravel roads and easy trail riding. The stock tires do have limitations. The stock tires are poor in slippery trail conditions such as mud, wet grass, deep / loose gravel or sand. I had the same or similar tires on my DR350S many years ago. I replaced those tires with a set of Pirelli MT21s quite early on, but I was using the DR350S mostly on the trails. I replaced the original rear tire on my DR650 with a Heidenau K60 Scout at 9460 km and the original front tire with a Continental TKC80 at 14400 km. The stock tires wear out faster than, say, the stock tires on a V-Strom 650. The DR650 rides well on the highway, and is good fun on the backroads. There is more than enough power for highway use, even on inclines. The DR650 is not the most comfortable bike to ride for extended periods of sit-down riding due to the lack of wind protection and the seat, but both items can be remedied. Full review here: roadandtrail.net/Reviews/2010_DR650SE_Review

[@cmachado1835]

I bought mine 16 years ago. I still love it. I like to ride, not to show off. It takes me everywhere I want.

[@T30-z5w]

Great bike. I had an 09 and kept it for a while racking up over 55,000 miles. It’s really a blank canvas because you’ll need to upgrade lots of things if you’re going to ride hard off road or mod in a different direction if your going to tour.

[@PeterLoweOne]

True, but in its stock form, it will capably take you down any road, and off road, and it will do that for very little money, while putting a big smile on your face.

[@bjrooney]

Love your enthusiasm & the DR650. I had a DR650RS 30 years ago and used it on and off-road and for touring. There were no adventure bikes back then but it's weight and power were a great match.

[@C4H10N4O2]

Love mine, it's a 1998 that lived it's whole life on the french seaside and wasn't in too rough of a shape when I got it. 500 eurobucks and some elbow grease later; it's almost looking new and run like a clock at 48000kms. Start easily without choke, never managed to make it stall.

[@joecamel6835]

Salt water area ? And not rusted ?

[@davidmatthews3093]

Starts without choke isn’t necessarily good. It could well be running rich.

[@C4H10N4O2]

@@joecamel6835 Slightly, but it's very superficial Suzukis paints weren't that good back then, I've seen quite a few and they don't age like Hondas

[@C4H10N4O2]

@@davidmatthews3093 You're right, and it is indeed slightly on the richer side, I set it that way so that it runs cooler Runs perfectly though, sparkplug's the right color too and I'm always close to sea level so elevation is not a problem

[@frederickjeremy]

I bought one of these in 2010 to ride back and forth to work 3 hours away. Granted i only make that trip once a month, but it was the only chance i had to ride as I became a family man, and my harley sitting out in a parking lot by salt water took a toll on it really fast. The seat on these for that kind of ride was horrendous, but doable. The dr650 literally paid for itself, the money my company gave me for wear and tear on my vehicle paid the note, fuel, and insurance on this bike. Long as i ride it, it didnt cost me a penny. Aftermarket support for this bike is insane. You can turn this bike into a more focused machine for your riding style, and you can do it one piece at a time as you figure out what that is. This turns into a very off road capable adventure bike really easily with several hundred dollars investment in panniers and their bracketry, a rack, a top trunk, and a windshield. First step towards that was an aftermarket seat which made the longer rides way less agonizing than the factory pressure treated 4x4 of a seat. I’ve made a few 7 and 8 hour trips to catch a boat in southern lousiana, and to ride in the ozark mountains. Explored many back roads, and last summer we trailered the dr and my dads ultra classic up to the rockies where we spent a couple days riding around the big mountains and yellowstone. Towards the top of pikes peak the carburetor was definitely at a disadvantage compared to dads fuel injected bike, but tho its power was diminished by id say 1/3, it gladly made the climb and decent without complaint or adjustments. I rolled over 20,000 miles on the dr on that trip. This is a handy bike to have around, it will do any task from cross country road trip to hauling deer out of the woods. The trade off is there are better more purpose built machines to do every format of motorcycling this bike will do for every category, but this bike will do all those task well enough for my liking. It really shines on twisty roads and hair pin turns long as the tires your running grip the road well. The factory trail wing tires shine in this. It is literally the best handling bike i’ve ever rode in the turns long as the tires are designed for gripping pavement. When i was running k760 track masters i had to take it easy in the corners as the aggressive side lugs would roll if you pushed it hard in a curve on pavement. If you get a chance check out pro cycle, and do an ebay search of dr650 accessories and see what all is available to modify this bike to make it yours. The options are almost endless and the prices arent bad at all.

[@mattevans5812]

Absolutely right. I believe it is the best dual sport made today. It only weighs 9% more than a CRF300L Rally but handles highway with ease and the stock tank will give you 250km range with 12 litre tank which is actually really decent. I rode one of mine with a group of Goldwings from Victoria, BC to St. John's, NFLD on a 10,000km charity ride and then rode home alone to Victoria doing 1000km /day. 80,000km on that one bike nothing more than a cam chain tensioner gasket replacement - $4 aside from consumables. Of course it is also better than ANY "adventure" bike in the world when off road because it is lighter weight and has better suspension travel and ground clearance. I feel where it really excels is on twisty rough roads. Lots of those on Vancouver Island. That Sur-Ron idea is starting to catch on here for trail riding. Smart choice.

[@petrosspetrosgali]

I’ve never ridden the DR, but my 400, ”Doctor Zed”, is pretty damn ripper, mate!!

[@mcscotty325]

I love it and I'm so glad to see the DR650 back in Canada for another year.

[@russellgunther]

I checked out all the adventure bikes a couple of years ago and bought the DR650. It was an easy decision. The seat foam is unbearably hard though. Replace it with a softer better shaped aftermarket seat and see how far you can throw the old one. Other best mods are 2" lower foot pegs and 2' raised bar mounts if you are tall and replace the overly soft springs. Mine came with the free Acerbis fuel tank, bash plate, knobby tires and barkbuster accessories. Incredible value for money.

[@davehawes8177]

Had a XT5OO for 30 years and used it for everything. This is the latest version of the same format. Dead reliable, super economical and plenty enough grunt. Not to mention, far better in the boondocks and the urban environment.

[@whitedrguy6503]

The ultimate do it all bike, my 2014 DR 650 has been used as a courier bike in Melbourne Australia for 6 years, hit dirt roads and tracks in the Victoria high country and just recently taken me around the UK and through France, Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, Romania and back to ride around Croatia where it is currently parked until my return in 2024 to head back through Italy, France and Spain back to the UK to be shipped back to Australia. It is basically stock apart from heavier springs, a 19 litre IMS fuel tank and some pannier racks, different handle bars with heated grips and a higher output stator. Best adventure bike you can buy is a 27 year old designed bike, so much for progress. 👍👍👍👍

[@PeterLoweOne]

That's awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@samiam247]

I have the same bike, where did you get the high output stator & $?

[@izom]

absoltuley great

[@cweeyums687]

i owned a 1985 SP600F forerunner of DR650 Rode that bike in Baja, laid out desert race courses in the Mojave, rode the freeways of So Cal to and from work. Bullet proof....finally sold in 2020 because it was kick start only..and got what i paid in 1985!!! amazed how this is SO close to the 1985 up to and including the tool kit holder... get a full coverage skid plate that protects the oil filter cover!

[@ronny-drz]

Amazing machine - had a 2017, put 17,000km on it, not one issue, great torque, perfect gearing, went to a DRZ400 in 2020, returned to the DR650 for a reason - simple, fun, indestructible, cheap to run and no tech to break or develop a bug. Throw the stock tires in the garbage, they are called death wings for a reason & junk the concrete seat, lol. Thanks for the nice review.

[@2ndAmendmentGlock]

I gotta ask does the drz or dr650 feel more top heavy?

[@anthonybrayall8552]

What tire did you use?

[@geraltofrivia4651]

@@2ndAmendmentGlockdr650 is a tank drz400 more a normal dirtbike lighter and easier to ride fast.

[@geraltofrivia4651]

@@anthonybrayall8552d606

[@ronny-drz]

@@anthonybrayall8552 On the DR650, I used Heidenau K60 Scout tires, 50/50 tread, got good mileage out of them, a tough sidewall on them. On my DRZ, Dunlop D606 rear, MT21 front

[@darthgrundle2349]

A great bike, glad they didn't mess with a good thing. I think a lot sport bikes riders will be amazed at how well they handle on the street and how much fun they are off road on trials. They are not Motocross bikes by any means. But for a weekend in the woods, negotiating some trails to your favorite fishing spot, it can't be beat. And it will get there at 80 mph..!!!

[@RKmndo]

If you want better power, suspension, ergos, etc., drag it through the Procycle salad bar.

[@tahoehiker]

Been there, done that. I even got the wide ratio transmission.

[@tvrpmikeee]

what exactly is procycle?

[@1naashun]

⁠@@tvrpmikeeeProcycle is a place where you buy things for your DR650 that you didn’t know you needed, until you saw it!!😂

[@drewdavis4614]

I worked at a suzuki dealer in 1993-1995 and I bought the left over 1993 DR650 last year of kick start only. One of the best bikes I have ever owned.😊

[@jasonloke2219]

Thanks for sharing. I just came back after a 6100 km to North of Thailand with my 19-year Old DR. 14 days solid from Singapore. Thanks!

[@ENGINESHOPJOE]

Love this bike. It pulls like a tractor, never left me stranded, Simple air cooled engine. Off or on road it takes it all in stride and just keeps going. When I got it home re-jetted the carb and replaced the seat. Would buy it again in a heart beat. I have been riding since the late 1960’s and owned Harley’s ,Maicos, Hondas Bsa’s but this bike is like a horse, It knows how to do the work so you enjoy the riding.

[@trevorjameson3213]

Very well put sir! I've been riding DR650's since '05 and wouldn't have anything else, for both street and off-road it's awesome and does it all very well, and very easily.

[@garrettprosser7336]

​@@trevorjameson3213is this bike capable of a 30-45 minute highway commute? I like the look of dual sport and super motos but the options ive narrowed down to are the husky 701 or the dr650 but if you have any suggestions to more highway capable but still the same look and style id love to know. Also the simplicity of the dr650 makes me lean twords it because id like to work on it myself the the 701 i know will be harder to work on and more expensive.

[@nathanielyoungman4454]

650 is great for highway, get one

[@ENGINESHOPJOE]

@@garrettprosser7336 I rode it all day and then 3 hours at 70 mph to get home in the evening. It was 75 out and I loved it. I have not ridden on the highway in a rain storm yet. I plan on putting on more streetable tires when these are worn. My speedo is off as my speedo reads 76 when my gps reads 70. Check your speedo if you get a DR. I just put a madstad windshield on it. This will cut down on the wind in colder weather. The biggest problem is the stock seat when it comes to long rides and any type of sitting comfort. My aftermarket seat makes it bearable to go long distance. The 5 gallon IMS tank also makes it a nicer distance bike. At the end of the day it is really up to the person doing the riding whether they can ride the DR for long periods of time on the highway. I am almost 70 years old . This coming summer I am going to put a wide band on it and fine tune the carb for the best mileage / power combination.

[@stevesjourney7000]

34,000 miles in 2023 alone. Beyond fully loaded and carrying my dog we went anywhere and everywhere. This is the true adventure bike that we fully live on with a crazy tight budget.

[@BlackArroToons]

Nice bike with some old-style from the 1980s and 90s. A fun bike no doubt.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, there's a charm to the simplicity.

[@Mach19760]

Had one in Florida and if it wasn't for the snow birds I'd still be riding it lol. Great bike for getting back and forth to work and exploring. One of the best bikes ever.

[@volvogt21]

I've got 6 gs bikes in my collection yet I've chosen my DR to ride around Auatralia. I'm over half way around and I made the right choice. There is no way if any fault occurred a local mechanic could diagnose the issue without the right tech. It can be nearly 1000km between bike mechanics. At least with the DR a few spares and some knowledge you can attempt a repair yourself in the middle of the outback. Plus I'm loving the lack of weight and the fact it can be picked up loaded by one person.

[@ronbusa3735]

Great video well done !! Its nice to see something produced today like it was 30 years ago for us that can appreciate quality over time

[@jeffgordon7023]

I watched this video because I saw a DR. I have a 2015 and love it. I also have a TW200 for bouncing around the farm and a NC700X for commuting. If I could only have one. The DR would be it.

[@bobclapper2672]

You made good points, I have 2 Harley’s, I’d love to have a bike for the woods, trails . I had a dr400 40 yrs ago, loved it

[@kenjuicekrajewski9577]

The 650 is a can do anything anywhere and with no weight its a blast to go down the road and hit a fire road or powerlines and it rips change the tires and it goes anywhere love my 2012 with 2000 miles

[@pacopaez04]

I love my 2003 DR650, last month I put 2535 miles from Southern Cali,fornia to Nogales AZ. All of Sonora mex. to Mazatlan Sinaloa, spent 10 days then cross on a Ferry to La Paz Baja California and crossed Tecate back to California.

[@coastaku1954]

I really really want this bike. It can go on Highways, it can commute down my 90km/h road, it can do trails, it can haul a passenger, it can haul my crap, it can do anything I'd want a bike to do

[@petes3011]

love the simplicity of this era of bikes............and they're still making them. Figure that out guys. However some may feel they are a bit heavy and down on power. They still have great bottom end torque which you use everytime you pull away.

[@mischi7920]

My first bike was a Suzuki DR600 at the end of the 80s. The price was 6,000 DM. It was a very good motorcycle for the on-road and a little off-road. The problem was and still is the weight. This DR650S is probably a very good bike, but not for tough off-road. If you want to ride real off-road, you need a light bike. I've had a street legal Yamaha WR450F 2022 for 2 years now. On-road not ideal for longer distances, I have to admit. But off-road it's a dream. And by off-road I don't mean easy terrain, but really tough terrain. The weight is 118 Kg with full tank. My old DR 600 was 180 KG. The decision should always depend on what you want to ride, long distances on-roads with easy off-road, or short distances on-road (for longer journeys you need a trailer) but tough terrain.

[@Attila_Dori]

totally agree. I love that Suzuki still makes the DR, Kawasaki the KLR and Honda the XR650

[@caryd67]

I bought mine new from the dealership in 2014 for $7000. I added an additional $7000 in upgraded parts, mostly from ProCycle, including new front and rear suspension, Pro Taper handlebars and risers, 40 mm carburetor, heated grips, Acerbic fuel tank and hand guards, Moose adventure saddle, Pro Cycle catalytic delete and Hayabusa muffler, stainless braided brake lines, led lights, and tons of other little things…. I put 47000 kms on it and sold it last summer for $5000. Not too shabby if you ask me!

[@Motorcyclewindtherapy]

Simple and pure. Seems like a perfect compliment to my 2007 Road King Custom. I got rid of a Limited with every electronic you can outbon a bike...very boring and overkill. My Road King is just like this. A Speedo and a gas gauge. All i need even across country. Ill be on the lookout i think for a dr650 for a 2nd bike.

[@kindofweird]

This is just basically beautiful. In nowdays when you absolutely can feel a lack of that kind of based, simple and because of it beautiful bikes - DR650 is a breath of fresh air. Fresh, because classics is never getting old. Thank you for the review. I own a 2003 Suzuki Djebel XC 250 (DR250RXY) which was mainly JDM bike during the years of its production. Had an opportunity to get it from Japaneese auction to bring it here to Ukraine. And I don't regret it. Man, Japaneese Dual Sport bikes is something. It is just an another world.

[@BornagainE]

These videos are so informative and done well. Been trying to find out if this vehicle has a helmet lock and Pete has that covered.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it! Feel free to subscribe!

[@101stIRAG_WAR_VETERAN]

He is exactly right, I had a Hayabusa before trading it straight up for a 22 triumph street scrambler. With 50/50 tires the bike is like a dirtbike and I can ride it all day. I feel like I can tour on it too, but I bought a 2001 Honda Valkyrie for that and 2 up with my son.

[@rodneybjornstad9016]

You are spot on No discussion I bought you exactly like you said Road bike Dirt bike Had a couple vstroms And a klr This is a second bike

[@SirOsisofLiver]

I had a 1990 DR650S, back when they were still kick-start. The bike was bulletproof, and with DOT knobbies, was pretty good off-road. I’ve got a Moto Guzzi V85 TT Adventure now. Much nicer on road, but I’d never even try to take it off road to the places the DR could reach, and it’s relatively light compared to some of the true heavyweights in the ADV segment. I think my DR came from MacLeans. I know I bought a 2007 FZ6 from them back in the day. I moved from Fredericton in 2009, and hadn’t though about them in ages. Nice to see the new building. Good bunch to deal with.

[@stevesavage8784]

I still have one of those. I was riding it yesterday, still runs as sweet as anything...

[@billjorgensen5984]

The best bike ever, spend 6 months in West Africa driving my old DR600 and my buddy on his DR 650. They are really strong bikes, cheaper than Honda XL's and Yamaha. The aftermarket parts are huge, just get a good skit plate and a safari tank, a couple of offroad tires and you can go any place in the world for months after months. Great review. And you are right forget, the new huge 900 - 1250 adventure bikes, they are way too expensive, and they weigh almost twice as much. The Dr can be fixed easy id anything goes wrong when you are in some remote village. in Africa or going through remote mountains.

[@KLRmurdercycle]

The DR, KLR, XR are still the original large enduros that just out sold or out lasted everthing else...hint= the XR is a desert legend. These old enduros are best on secondary roads and gravel or forest roads. They are really good reliable trail bikes. Minor upgrades make big improvements and the knowledge on forums is just as legendary. ADV bikes are the thoroughbreds and old enduros/dualsports are the draft or mules. Stop trying to keep up with the Jones's and just ride✌😃

[@MrMarkpark]

Good video. You presented well and kept me engaged. You’re pretty good at it.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidfalgout7304]

After 200,000+ miles, 2 yrs of racing, 50+ years, more bikes than I can remember.. The most fun, easiest to own, least amount of money thrown away...the MIGHTY DR650 stands on the precipice of perfection and true motorcycle nirvana. If you know how to ride the DR650, if you wanna pretend all the rest ( well for the most part).

[@paulsnify]

This is a real world dirt bike that will do any adventure you care to throw at it. Cheap to run and simple to fix anywhere in the world. So yes I 100% agree with you and if you are in Asia or Africa doing a real world adventure this is perfect no complicated electric to fail things to break and will go on forever. If something fails you can fix it yourself.

[@memorris2]

I had a 95 xr600r that i made street legal, and it was the only bike i regretted selling, until i just bought a 2017 dr650 and i love it more. Friggin awesome bike!

[@Duken4evr29]

Nice video. Ya the big DR isn't cutting edge but it obviously satisfies a need in the marketplace for a reliable affordable and versatile dual sport. What's old is still relevant and being discovered seemingly by many as of late, lots of re-entry riders seem to be getting dual sports these days. It would be interesting to see a chart showing DR 650 sales trends over the decades it has been in production. A fun aspect of the DR for tinkerers like me is there literally are decades of tuning and modding knowledge available, and the bike can be improved greatly in a variety of areas with some not terribly expensive tuning and suspension work. Adding a free flowing exhaust and tuning the carb does wonders for part throttle response and power where a bike like this lives 99% of the time, if not outright top end full throttle horsepower. Making the suspension better is well understood as well. It is rewarding to improve and set up a bike and to make it yours, and the DR is a great bike for that. As for me, I've been non stop riding competition dirt bikes since I was a kid in the mid 70s, had an XL600 dual sport in the late 80s, what a great wheelie machine that was, sold it before the cops caught up with me and got a CR250 to focus on desert racing. I still ride a 300 XC, which makes me wanna go fast, but let's face it, I'm gettin' old 😂 I still have my 300 but got back into dual sports with a '23 Husky 701 Enduro last year. I'm blessed to live in Colorado and really enjoy slowing down some and just exploring scenic 4x4 routes on my 701. Riding the dual sport is a more age appropriate experience than hauling ass on the 300 and tons of fun, but I still ride it faster than I should as dual sports are friendly handling things that are pretty receptive to getting frisky on pavement. My 701, which is Rottweiler tuned, is legit fast with a 120 MPH top end and it is a real weapon on a canyon road. My tuned and set up 701 is a "lot" in every way. The rational size of me knows the DR makes a lot more sense than my 701, but at age 62 my darn life clock is ticking, and I wanted what I wanted. Oh boy it is off the deep end stuff for sure...

[@dennismundt7378]

I consider this motorcycle a real and genuine one. No connection with smartphones, no hours spent adjusting settings on a display based on my current mood for special motorcycle rides, and no digital greetings from an anime character when starting the bike. We can talk about traction control, ABS, and even a crash sensor for emergency calls on the motorcycle. But what’s installed in most motorcycles feels more like preparing for an astronaut launch, which personally, I don’t need. However, this Suzuki DR 650 embodies pure adventure. It’s a shame that Suzuki doesn’t offer this machine in Europe. Thanks for the video.

[@davidfalgout7304]

Dennis, A real bike for real men that know how to ride!

[@lynchcreekmuzzy5759]

My son has a 2019 DR650 and i have the XR650L.....oddly enough i actually like his DR better than the XR. I rejetted DR carb and new FMF exhaust....the power feels so much better and bike is SOLID. XR has a Lectron carb and stock exhaust....still trying to tune correctly. (Frustrated) however, i will say i like the seat, suspension and ground clearance a little more on XR. If i had it to do over....i would probably go with DR. (I have a background in racing Offroad and Dual Purpose riding, etc - 40 yrs)

[@donuthole7236]

A DR is a dirt bike with blinkers. Add racks, panniers, fairing it's an Adventure bike. Swap out the wheels with mags and road race rubber and it's a supermoto. There are more things to swap like sprockets, skid plate, suspension setting but you get the point. My DR does all these things and then some. It does none of these things extremely well but no other bike on Earth that is more flexible with regard to configuration. Easy to maintain, mod happy with a huge aftermarket and tough as nails. If you were to own one bike the DR is worth looking at.

[@yorkchris10]

Wow - I like the 2024 graphics. Nice to see they didn't waste money on a Canadian Rocky mountain graphics pack.. I haven't seen too many bikes with aftermarket graph kit either.

[@UncleWally3]

Talking about a DR is like a talking about a fireplace. There’s fire, in a place. It’s good.

[@johnunger3763]

Loved your review, of course, people enjoy hearing someone say things they agree with (lol). I bought a 2024 (same as your review bike) with 1800 miles on it for $4,800. Thought I would use the savings to do the usual mods......... but DIDN'T! Just got out on the road (and off-road) and enjoyed it, bone stock, as is! Will switch out the Trailwings after they wear out, but didn't even bother with them yet, just brought it home and rode it. This is the motorcycle you will keep, because this is the motorcycle you will ride, beginner or "old hand." You can "grow into this bike, because you won't grow out of it.

[@bramcurtis6900]

And another thing to add. With the length and plushness of the suspension on road they are super comfortable on the highway long distance.

[@pookiewookie7679]

I love those dual sports. They remind me of the 80s

[@Liberty4Ever]

I'd add a larger fuel tank, heated grips, proper hand protecting guards instead of flimsy plastic hand guards, an aluminum bash plate, engine protection, all LED bulbs, Seat Concepts seat, convert the rims to spoke tubeless and have a good adventure bike for proper off road adventures that can also travel on the highway without winding out too much. Needs EFI and a six speed transmission.

[@bseidem5112]

Needs tubeless rims too.

[@williamfreeman9356]

He is right 2 years ago I spent a year researching my next motorcycle and I got a 2022 dr650 now in researching for my 2nd new bike mabe a ninja 500 not sure still looking

[@MotoPisti]

You are absolutely right! Adventure bikes are very very heavy and bulky! Dual bikes are much better. Riding is about freedom :)

[@brucesieverts1236]

these are awesome, it doesn't cost much to add a ecu and fuel injection to get a heap of power out of them and it doesn't effect the life span of the engine either. they are the most fun you can have with your pants on !

[@j-l8404]

I almost bought a DR. Like the KLR, simple design, reliable, easy to repair. It just felt too small for my frame and not as well-rounded as a KLR. The DR is definitely a better choice for offroad. My new KLR was almost the same price and i like the ABS brakes. Can't wait to take er camping. I'm doing a fair bit of hiway and FSR's, not as much technical offroading.

[@jayhopkins1337]

When I seen 2024 DR i had to open video, because i couldn't believe it looks the same as budys 03 . Have they improved anything? Hp. Still barely enough. At least there cheap or if you want red one honda 650L

[@SA_bluemonday]

I love mine. Toured eastern europe with my 1999 (stock) last summer for 2,5 months. Now I´m upgrading the suspension, tank and geometry so I´ll probably love it even more. Ofcourse the DR isn´t for everyone but it sure is for me. And to have found such a nice one here in Europe, I was lucky (they left the market here in the early 2000´s)

[@PeterLoweOne]

That's great! Thanks for sharing your experiences!

[@catmate8358]

On a bike like this it's important to show the seat height so I'd suggest that you sit on the bike to demonstrate that as you did in the V-Strom video. Nice review overall, this is one of the few bikes I'd actually like to own.

[@williamdejeffrio9701]

I love the idea of simple, with inexpensive parts. I LIKE the big square mirror, taillights, signal lights, etc. This would be perfect for doing the kind of riding I like to do - exploring county roads, dirt roads, fire trails, etc.

[@RoadAndTrailNet]

Many of the OEM parts for the DR650SE are actually quite expensive. You can look up parts prices online to compare with other bikes. Don't take the presenter's word for it that they are inexpensive.

[@leighhill9185]

I was gonna say the same thing!@@RoadAndTrailNet

[@momchilyordanov8190]

I would agree, but will go even further - buy a 5-years old one. You will save a lot of money, that can invest back in the bike. Be aware, you are buying not a bike, but a platform. The necessary upgrades will cost as much as the bike itself, if you really want to have a capable adventure bike. But that is fine. You can buy the best you can find for like $4k and go on with bigger tank, better seat, additional headlights, even full upgrade on the suspension etc., etc. You will end up with a $8k machine, that is way better than the original, customized for you and still significantly cheaper than the modern adventure bikes. It will not be as comfortable or economical, but personalized for you and more fun.

[@user-df2kk2gk5u]

Great video. I think your position is very logical and it's great advice. You can buy one of these and save yourself $15 grand to spend on the actual adventure.

[@lifeAsia]

I really love this design, especially the tail light!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Simple is beautiful! 😃👍

[@plowhand5591]

The DR650 is a true 50/50 on/off road motorcycle. I have a WR250R for serious ADV rides and a KLR650 for long distance easy stuff, but if I only had one machine it would be a DR650.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, I can see that being a fair argument.

[@michaelchristopher2549]

I’m looking at picking up a 2024 model soon. I was also a teen 80’s rider and this bike will do it all. I had one in 2019 and I regrettably sold to buy the next best thing…huge mistake. Thank you for the review!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching!

[@cigarr0000]

The DR 650, The Hog, The Doctor, is man's best bike, if I had the money I would def buy one.

[@citizen4power]

Was originally thinking of the DR 400,650 is looking good this year and basically the same price,oh yeah!👍

[@PeterLoweOne]

Can't go wrong with either!

[@ericromeiro6688]

I have a 2018 white one with 400 miles on it Love it😊

[@Richaag]

If you’re looking to get a DR 650, get a KLR 650 instead. You’re getting a fuel injected bike with a fuel capacity that’s almost double that of the DR, and for the same price.

[@martinotalotti8986]

Kasawaki klr 650 doesn't vibrate with double countershafts. How does DR compare with klr?

[@simoncaddick9085]

Perfect, I want one. (You can maybe talk me 'round concerning the tacho and proper rear rack, but I'd love to see a bash plate.. ..and a kickstart is commensurate with that single exhaust port methinks. - I miss kickstarts.)

[@RainnMakerr]

Thanks for making this video. I am sure many people can relate to it. I do want a 1250 GS and most likely will do 90 % on road and 10% dirt . But most people will go for looks over practicality. Most people will only have one bike and to them , looks matter. DR650 will be good for people that for sure know will do 50/50 on/off road riding and take advantage of the light weight nature of the bike and simplicity + reliability. I would rather get the bike i want (GS) and work on my off road skills. to me spending thousands of $ on a bike only for practicality does not make a lot of sense.

[@moise941]

I love this bike, easy, simple to maintain. Best Buy ever.

[@bigtrev761]

🇦🇺😎👍The Big DRasaurass 650 has been outlawed down here in Australia. Everything eventually gets banned down here. I think 2023 was the last model

[@izom]

same here in europe- no cheap carburated thumpers anymore- but im glad we save the world by buyin chinese overprized efi crap...🤮🤪

[@willmeyers5540]

really enjoyed your perspective spot on brother

[@PaulDaniec]

Bought 2023,love it

[@vacationrichard974]

You made this video FOR ME. Thank you!!

[@robertforsberg6192]

Pleas suzuki build the DRZ650 18/21 real suspension rally wepon

[@drmachinewerke1]

I’ll keep my 84 XL350r I paid 80.00 for it 4 years ago. Fired on about the 10th kick. Does better now.

[@antofagastaride]

I have 2 '09, and cannot be more satisfied

[@Troubleshooter-2.0]

I have a street legal WR450F A Bandit 1200 I built from parts, an RF I revived and drive, and a DR250S converted to a DR350SE with the best dirt model parts. The Suzuki air oil cooling system did not pass emissions laws and that technology though efficient was phased out. The quirky outdated and "cheap" design features I think are necessary to meet requirements to fit through an emissions grandfather clause loophole. It is a total time capsule. The DRs are very much like the Kawasaki KLR and Honda XR bikes. The Honda XR650 is quite well regarded and still competes against the DR650. Their use philosophy is mostly enduro, farm, trail, and commuter. My WR is considered "a race bike" It only holds about a quart of oil and wants to be run fast. It likes to build a lot of heat on tight trails. The DR holds more oil, runs lower compression, and stays cool better. You will get left on the highway by an adventure bike. The lack of fairing is a tell that this is a dual sport and not an adventure bike. It will suffice as an adventure bike in a pinch, yeah. I like them. I would consider a Honda CRF300L if I were shopping for one. The MAD TV guys outfitted one nicely. And I would consider an XR650 just because the Honda has a better following than the DR. I think I would like a Beta 300 Enduro... or a Harley. My local dealer has a used Breakout that caught my eye...

[@chrishart8548]

I would have that dr650s and never go off road, i just love the styling and the suspension that just soakes up all the bumps.

[@cowarddonnie-ji5yz]

You also drive a Rubicon for groceries

[@chrishart8548]

@cowarddonnie-ji5yz no I don't even have a car.

[@mtube620]

i would get the dr650 if it has FI. I live in colder climate, FI is much easier to get bike started. I currently ride wr250r/x, i can start at -5C (23F) just as quick and ride as in the summer. I would still prefer a D/S under 300 lbs.

[@resiliencycommand]

Great video brother... real tempted to drive 600+ miles to pick up one of these and trade in my harley for it!

[@JoshuaHall-pw6mt]

I sold my Ultra Classic and my softail standard last year and I really think this is gonna be my next bike, I’m not 100% sure yet, I really like them