Dr650 UPGRADES - Are they worth it?

[@rangeroadmoto]

Have you upgraded your Dr650? Leave a comment and let me know what you did! Also if you liked this video, check out my review of the stock Dr650 kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKCZYZ9nfZeHjsk

[@TurtleforHire]

This video is phenomenal! Great cool shots like the turntable in low light. I too have wondered about all the money I put into my DR. I think ultimately what I came up with is that I wanted Japanese build quality for my motor and transmission. The DR650S and XR650L are the bikes still being produced in the old 80's Japanese style of build them strong, simple and reliable. The shortcoming is, building them that way also forgoes all the improvements of power, suspension and lightweight. All the mods are just an attempt to get closer to that side of the pie chart. I like owning a bike that has 3000 mile oil changes and can go 60000 miles before needing a rebuild. I can ride it in the dirt, and on the street too. Thanks for the awesome video, hope you keep on making more.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks for watching and the kind words! The turntable shot took some sketchy diy to make happen but I am pretty happy how it came out! I agree, the Japanese big singles definitely have some charming characteristics. Simple, rugged, predictable and easy to maintain and work on. I will definitely be making more videos! Thanks again for watching

[@skaragianis]

You put a lot of effort into this. We thank you. Tremendous! Great looking result and bike

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks so much Steffan! Definitely took me a while that’s for sure

[@MysticBarefoot]

You might enjoy this feature length Film on what it is like to ride a motorcycle around Australia. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6GTmKCPZslra9U

[@rangeroadmoto]

@@MysticBarefoot I'll check it out! Thanks

[@ozgurdonmaz]

looks really fantastic

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks!

[@RamonLopez-pg5rh]

Hello I loved your video. I just bought a Dr650. I’d like to know what’s the exhaust you bought. Thanks

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks! That was a pro cycle exhaust.

[@RamonLopez-pg5rh]

@@rangeroadmoto I try to find it but only shows the website 🥲 not the product

[@RamonLopez-pg5rh]

Lots of options but not the one you got

[@rangeroadmoto]

Yeah I just looked and didn’t see it either, might be discontinued. It was called the Procycle SS1

[@Noastrenght]

:D is this the train to farkletown?

[@rangeroadmoto]

All aboard!

[@KSMotoCafe]

this editing was an eye candy! I don't even own a DR650 it was worth the watch!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks KS! You should try to get your hands on a dual sport and see how it feels. You’re living in dual sport heaven out there

[@tedcrum]

When I bought my DR I promised not to try to make a KTM out of it. Then I spent $3k on upgrades AND bought a Beta RR-S. Doh! Best bang/buck: D606 / Scorpion Trail; Racetech Emulators and springs. Acerbis 5.3 tank, Sargent seat (not as nice as Concepts, but cheap.) ProTaper "Woods Low" bars. Luxury items: GPR steering stabilizer/fat bar riser (makes knobbies safer on the street and helps stream crossings.) Racetech shock re-valve. Magura hydraulic clutch (ends frequent cable replacement.) Oxford heated grips with controller built into left grip. The bike was "jetted" when I bought it, with 3 screen plugs in the airbox. It wouldn't rev until I put a stock main jet in it. Lots of bad advice WRT carbs on the internet, just leave it all alone.

[@jackheinemann1994]

When you understand jetting and get them right they will make you all giddy

[@richardwhitehead4684]

Other than _maybe_ a slip on and associated minor carb tweaks, And the seat, I wouldn’t bother touching a single thing on the DR except the tires to match the terrain I’m riding on and maybe the handlebars. I’d _never_ bother changing the tank. Personally, I’m fine getting off the pig every hundred or so miles. The stock suspension is 100% fine if you get the sag and fluid wt dialed. No need to change the springs unless you’re huge or tiny. I’m neither. If you feel the need to try to make the dr into a lightweight trail bike, just get a drz400 and get on with it. And I suspect that after you’ve had it for a few years, you’ll feel the same.

[@SWATT101]

Awesome. I'm looking at a low miles 17 that is basically half price as new...I love to tinker so the money saved will be put into making it mine...seat springs exhaust and tuning first...as parts are found...thanks!

[@rangeroadmoto]

That’s a good way to do it! I think if you can find a good used DR it’s the best way to go!

[@roosterino]

The production quality of this is through the roof! Amazing video 👍👍👍

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks David! Appreciate that!

[@aussiefarmer8741]

All bikes need some mods to a degree. I got the DR as I prefer the lightness compared to other bikes. I'm 60 with back problems so picking up a heavy bike would really bugger up my day. A very under rated bike the suzuki. Reliable, fixable, no stupid electronic crap to mess up your day out. I for 1 am happy with mine.

[@stubabyfuora5280]

Bought a new 2024 DR650, I am an experienced 68 yr old trail rider. The stock DR650 shocked me for how good it was. The bike is just nearly perfect stock. My mods are a plastic skid plate, drill out fuel screw and add a washer to needle, and removed the snorkel that made the motor more powerful than my fully tweeked XR650L. My only other mod was to but washers on pegs to remove flex. Here is the controversial part, I love the seat, tank, bars, pegs, and tires. All you have to do to feel that way is ride my 2015 WR450R on pavement for 50 miles and you will love the DR as much as I do. In fairness I have way better trail bikes than DR so my goal was to do backroads and forest roads only and it works there great stock

[@jaybosher6144]

The intro was fantastic. Respect for the work you put into this

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you Jay! That intro definitely took me some time to figure out but I think it turned out pretty good.

[@fontanajim]

Well done video. Thanks for publishing. Here are the upgrades on my 2017 DR. Some of these came with my bike and some I added. Procycle side racks. Procycle top rack. Mirrors are from Doubletake Pro Cycle Lower foot pegs. Acerbis 5.7 gallon tank. Acerbis bash guard Barkbuster Storm handguards Pro Grip 714 Rally hand grips. In line fuel filter. Warp9 handlebar risers Pro Taper handlebars. Cogent Dynamic Mojave rear shock Madstad windscreen Russell Day Long Saddle (yep that is not a typo!) Warp 9 Racing Starter Cap, Ball Bearing (no more squark noises) Procycle Brake Pedal Adjuster Bracket (puts the brake pedal where it needs to be) Procycle Remote Choke Cable Kit BST Runleader Digital Maintenance Tachometer Car Digital Voltmeter Gauge DC 12V, Waterproof LED Digital Display Voltmeter Magnetic drain plug Cogent fork springs .52 kg/mm Procycle Case Armor Plating for Engine Cases Mosko Moto Backcountry 35 panniers. PIAA thin line sports horns (helps move range free cows) JNS Engineering Case Saver with Sprocket Cover Parabellum Headlight Guard Warp 9 Inspection Time Engine Plug

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks for the kind words Jim! That sounds like an amazing bike! I bet it rides awesome and will take you anywhere you want to go. Thanks for sharing!

[@fontanajim]

@@rangeroadmoto It is a nice bike. I ride a lot of Forest Service roads in Idaho springs such as the IDBR. I have not upgraded the exhaust, carb or intake box. Happy with the power the bike has and don't want to screw up the works. 😁

[@greensocks4507]

Thanks for the video my friend. Bought a 2015 off a guy about 2 weeks ago with only 1500kms since new, Been stored for a while, I'm still running it in. He'd spent a lot of money on it but things got in the way and I made him an offer. Here we go with the upgrades he's done... It seems to get along Ok Oxford hot grips, Renthal bars, Bark Busters. Ventura pack rack. BRB Bash plate. Acerbis tank, 20 litre ( white ) , New seat professionally built. Enlarged and lowered footpegs. New muffler ( GSXR600 ?) . Aftermarket sidestand. Airbox mod with Keihen carb replacing the original. All jetted and tuned Mitas tyres, offroad biased 80/20 road. Fuel filter and aftermarket fuel tap. Fork upgrade, FFRC plex valves and progressive springs. Moose counter shaft sprocket cover. New shock spring and FFRC piston and shim stack work done. Most receipts for the work done and I have the original parts as well. Look forward to continuing to run it in and , there's my upgrade. Mileage on the clock from today is 1703 kms. I wonder whether these bikes will hold or, appreciate in value in the coming years. ? Who cares... I'll hang on to mine for now. Christchurch , New Zealand

[@Davido50]

Excellent motorcycles ! Enjoy. -Ohio 🇺🇸.

[@stevecrocker6904]

Cryptick: mate if they are no longer allowed in NZ (as in OZ) due to no ABS compliance there'll be no more new ones you won't lose any money. Keep it till you're too old to ride

[@bradsanders6954]

My DR650 is all set up for me, about 4K over what I paid for the bike , it works great, for a DR.....Resale though? Buyers ignore or dont even know what the mods are. Mines an 03. It might be worth 2500. Maybe not....people simply dont realize a DR can run 100,000 miles.......a KTM 790 or 501......probably not going to run that long.

[@michaelhrivnak1719]

Loved your video's on the DR650! Had one back in 2011. Sold it because I thought I was getting a bit old to be riding. Regretted that decision ever since! After watching your vid's, time to make amends. Will be sitting on a new DR within a month. Thank you!!!!

[@rangeroadmoto]

That’s awesome! And encouraging to see there isn’t really any age that’s too old for riding! Hope you have a blast on the DR, thanks for watching.

[@rickybobby8224]

I bought my DR for $4500. Spent like $1200 on all the usual upgrades. Wouldn't trade it for any of the new middle weight adv bikes.

[@beborodner930]

Love your videos! The editing, filming, and general flow is top shelf! As a KLR owner always wondering if I should've gone down the DR rabbit hole.. this was fun to watch. Thank you!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you! Before I bought the Dr, I was looking at KLR’s and XR’s.. they are all awesome bikes. Just slightly different depending on how you ride

[@bradsanders6954]

@@rangeroadmoto Ive ridden a KLR that had a lotta mods, they are fun in a dumb ass sort of way, is what I thought. That huge whale of a tank, makes you sit well back on the bike, the forks have an angle like a chopper....so many parts are cheap pressed steel...........The DR is like a blank pallette, you just make it what you want it to be.

[@pabloriviello7737]

Amazing videos! I’m thinking about buy one. My only fear is the heat from the engine when it rides on the city. What are your thoughts about this? Cheers! From NZ.🙏👍💪

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks for the kind words! I wouldn’t worry about the engine over heating. I have ridden it in pretty hot conditions 37c (98f) in stop and go traffic and it was totally fine. It’s probably the coolest running bike I have ever owned. The factory external oil cooler was a big reason I chose the DR650 over the Honda xr650.

[@stevecrocker6904]

the heat when riding suburbia does not give me the slightest trouble - and that is during Sydney summers

[@neutron6599]

After watching 3 of your videos I can also see you have improved a lot your driving skill 👍. I never comment on videos but yours are really easy to see and enjoy. Tks.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks so much, really appreciate that. I am definitely a lot more comfortable off road now than I used to be

[@SA_bluemonday]

A great video on my favorite subject. Thanks! Haven´t modded my DR yet but I will.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks so much! It definitely is a fun subject

[@tomkruze2749]

Outstanding!

[@212driller]

Upgrading and customizing is half the fun! I love my DR.

[@rangeroadmoto]

It sure is!

[@TommyNitro]

How tall are you/ what's your inseam length? Do you think the tall made it harder to get your foot down on tight stuff?

[@rangeroadmoto]

I am just a hair under 6'2" (187cm).. I am not sure what my inseam length is, that is something I should probably figure out! I would say I have pretty balanced leg length/upper body. Legs aren't particularly long or anything. As per touching the ground, there was definitely a difference with the seat, also with the stiffer springs not sagging as much. that being said It never caused an issue for me though. If you are significantly shorter than myself I would probably consider the standard seat over the tall version.

[@TommyNitro]

@@rangeroadmoto I'm over 6', as well. Pretty long inseamed. My bike had a Sergeant Seat on it already. I lowered the pegs with the IMS (I think) brackets. But I would still like to open the cockpit a bit more. My only other option is a taller seat. But I'm slightly concerned about sitting higher as I like how easy it is to put my foot down. I do think my hips and knees would be happier with a slightly taller seat.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Yeah I get what you’re saying, the biggest thing that changed my foot placement on the ground was reducing rear sag in the back with stiffer spring. Maybe throw a chunk of something on your seat and go ride and see if it screws you up before you buy the seat. They are raising in price all the time it seems.

[@TommyNitro]

@@rangeroadmoto Good idea. I may try that. Thanks!

[@chuddledollops]

Amazing work on this video! Your DR looks killer. I agree on the D606's for sure. I'm getting tons of K's out of them. Really recommend the bigger front brake disc upgrade, makes the pig feel way safer and less locomotive like.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you! Yeah I was pretty happy with them too! Might try Motoz next, been hearing good things.

[@RKmndo]

Braided stainless brake hoses have been enough for my brakes.

[@ridenm7748]

@@RKmndo Same.

[@ralphderkapitaen9875]

you should have revealed how much all the upgrades have cost to see it all in perspectives, if it's really worth to add to the value of the bike and its improvements. Total cost would give the audience a good idea..:-) Thanks

[@rangeroadmoto]

I thought about that for sure. But for me I got my parts all over the place, some of them were used some from friends and some I purchased new. So didn’t think it would be a fair representation of everyone’s experience. Mostly Every part on there would be available on procycle.us and I imagine probably between $1500-$2000 dollars. Thanks for watching!

[@jonsmith9708]

First thing I changed was front sprocket 14t

[@trevorjameson3213]

The upgrades to my DR650 include a heavy duty skid plate, Tusk Dsport tires, and a bright LED headlight. I think that's all. Everything else is stock. I actually like the seat, but the bars could be better but I really don't care, they work for me. My first DR650 was back in '05 and I loved it. The one I have now is a '21. I ride the bike in Colorado on 4x4 trails and single track, it's very capable, plenty of power, and easy to ride on gnarly, steep and rocky terrain with little effort. I find the suspension and gearing to work just fine for that type of terrain. When the day of riding is done, I get on the highway and ride back home, it's an excellent street bike as well.

[@rangeroadmoto]

How do you like the Tusk tires?

[@stevecrocker6904]

like you, I actually get on well with the stock seat. And the standard bars aren't bad enough to change them

[@take5th]

Nice video. Try some Tusk D-sports next time.

[@therealaim-9xmissile]

Short answer is, Hell yea it’s worth it.

[@BrettCarstens]

Fun video!!! I know how much effort you put into it! And as a fellow frugal DR650 rider, I warn you that this post may potentially cost you more money. I've got my DR650 set up for touring and it's phenomenal for everything except busy/fast freeways. Beyond what you've already done, I would only suggest that you look into getting a larger front brake disc along with steel brake lines (makes a difference) and maybe looking into a pumper carb (made a massive difference in power). 🤙

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you! It was fun to make! Oh believe me I have been looking the tm40 pumper carbs since day one haha and fork swaps.. brakes could definitely use more stopping power. That’s a good idea! It’s really ever ending with these bikes. Thanks for watching!

[@trevorjameson3213]

Normally I keep my DR650's completely stock, engine-wise. But I think I'm going to get a pumper carb and a better pipe. I mean the bike runs great at high altitude for some reason, but not as well at lower altitude (I think it's way too lean).

[@bigsmoke6189]

new seat .better headlight better suspension,better gear range ,bigger tank,good tyres,exhaust and carb mods or just buy a KTM 690 Adventure ?

[@rangeroadmoto]

I think the 690 enduro is a very very good option to look at.

[@vinegum8835]

Buy a Pre 96..... They last.... Just give it good oil and some love as you should do to any bike. Drop the music man....Annoying..

[@rangeroadmoto]

Kinda seems like they all last pretty good 🤷🏼

[@DrDanTDC]

Which Ascerbis, fender is it?

[@Niandmolar]

Love the video, Im very inspired! One question: I’m looking for a helmet like yours and a kind of glasses like yours which fits 100% to the helmet. Can you name me your model? Thanks !

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks for watching! So that is a Biltwell Gringo helmet. Those goggles are Smith snowboarding goggles. But Biltwell makes goggles for this helmet. Standard dirt-bike goggles will not fit because the opening is a little too small.

[@johnclaxton33]

Fellow DR owner. The Bush Pig looks pretty sexy with some lipstick. Best video I’ve seen on these bike….and I watch way too many. What helmet are you rocking?

[@rangeroadmoto]

Wow that’s an awesome compliment! Thank you! That is just my old Biltwell Gringo

[@johnclaxton33]

So do you miss the DR? What is the next bike?

[@Sonny_316]

I needed this in my life currently. Thank you so much for this. Outstanding

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thank you for watching!

[@duaneyoutbe]

Those were NOT flaws. It was the mirror showing you that you are not willing to work, plan, etc., to do what it takes to pay more for something that would suit you better.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey there, Duane Suggesting the dr650 has no flaws is an interesting take.. For me some of the things were flaws, for you maybe they are positives. Every bike I have ever owned has had flaws, that doesn't make the bike not good or even great. Just like me I have flaws, but I chose to work on my flaws to try to make them better, going around saying I am flawless isn't going to help anyone. Are you saying "suit me better" as in better parts or a different bike? As per me being cheap about parts I have a specific budget when it comes to bikes, I do not want to invest more than I can get out of it if I should decide to sell it. As for the bike itself. I liked the Dr650 while I had it, flaws and all. Eventually I did sell it and got something that I felt would suit me better. And that bike has flaws too. You don't always know if you're going to like something till you try it.

[@gopendranandana6738]

I had a question for you , I been having problems with a flat-tire three time on three months, I don't know what's happening , and mostly from the balvule , you thing is a solution, I just stop to drive until someone tells me what I can do to solve this problem, I been driving a lots of motorcycle and never got on this problem

[@rangeroadmoto]

That is very strange, I haven’t heard of this problem on DR’s. I would check your spokes and make sure they aren’t poking, check your tubes and see where it is leaking and inspect the tire/rim in that area for any abrasions or something stuck in the tire itself. That’s very strange I hope you get it figured

[@russvandine5841]

Upgrade that helmet. Should have been your first choice on mods 7:11

[@rangeroadmoto]

Haha I have a nice ECE carbon helmet now don’t you worry

[@03bonneville]

Great job on the video and the DR. For the money these bikes can't be beat...super simple and reliable.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Couldn’t agree more! Thanks for watching 🙂

[@celtic4301]

Could someone with zero mechanical ability do these mods? Taking a carb out gives me the fear.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Some of them for sure! I’d say the suspension and the carb was the more tricky of the common mods I did. Nice thing about the dr650 is there’s lots and lots of information, videos and manuals to help you with most things. I’d say start with small easier to do things and if you like that and are successful work your way up in difficulty. If you do get stuck on somethings there’s lots of forums where people are probably stuck in the same place and others offer helpful advice.

[@chain.driven]

This has been on my watchlist for a while. Wow. I love the creativity that went into it. I chuckled a few times at your stock part analogies. And that transition on the spinner there to the frame of the bike, nicely done. What were you spinning it on? I’m still stunned by what a huge impact upgrading the suspension on my 500 exc had. You hear it all the time yet I hesitated for over a year to drop $500 on some coiled up bits of metal. When I finally accepted my bike was under sprung seeing it bottomed out in my photos and videos I took the plunge. The bike not only sticks to the ground where I ask it too, it also hops like a gazelle when I need to. I always thought I was just shitty at hopping drainage ditches but now I sail over them. I’m now going down the road of ECU remapping. The AUS map made a huge difference but I wanted to go to the outer limits and sent it away for a racing map. New pivot pegs went on this week and I’m eager to see what kind of an impact those have on my ride. I’d really like to try new bars but they’re pricy so right now I’m running 2” risers which seem to help. Yea it’s a rabbit hole for sure but man is it fun. I keep track of every mod and repair to my 2012 KTM 500 EXC for anyone interested: facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10158317185691007&type=3

[@rangeroadmoto]

It definitely is a rabbit hole! I will probably never own another off-road bike with at least swapping out springs for my weight. I did a video on the ktm500 if you haven’t seen it you should check it out. It’s got every mod you could ever do it on it.

[@MysticBarefoot]

You might enjoy this feature length Film on what it is like to ride a motorcycle around Australia. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6GTmKCPZslra9U

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@ComfyDadShoes]

How tall are you? I’m 6’4 and wondering if the height mods would make the bike work for me.

[@rangeroadmoto]

I’m 6’2” and pretty even in the leg-torso department. There’s not a whole lot more you could do to make the bike feel bigger. Lower legs, tall seat and 2” risers. The rox risers are good cause you can roll them forward to accommodate your size.

[@franciscopinto5557]

Your videos are just amazing. Really nice work, you deserve much more. Congrats!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you Francisco! That’s really nice of you to say.

[@Davido50]

Love Suzuki motorcycles! Can't go wrong 👌.

[@rangeroadmoto]

It was always good to me!

[@pstarxxx78]

If you want a super DR. Get a FCR pumper carb. Change the pipe To something Like a DG or BIG GUNS. You will have a wheelie popper instantly. Then go for suspension upgrades. You will be set. As far as the seat. Wear some butt pads. It will be comfy and save your donky 🫏from some road rash.

[@tonycerruto5157]

Dude, you may be the reason I buy the DR over the Svartpillen!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Svartpillens are pretty cool, might be a bit too hip for your liking though 😉

[@rabidwookie606]

How tall are you? How was the tall seat concepts seat go with getting your feet down?

[@rangeroadmoto]

I’m 6’2. With the concept seat with the stiffer springs definitely made it sit taller. It was fine for me. To flat foot one foot. Or tippy both feet. Never felt too tall or anything like that.

[@austinharris6193]

Unreal video.. Intro was bad ass, collecting the parts was funny, and panning around the yellow backdrop with the measuring tape was a really cool visual. Probably the best content out of Alberta. Shout out from Calgary 🤙 Would you still recommend this over similar offerings? I'm not a fan of getting blown around on Deerfoot when riding the ktm500 but still want something I can hit trails with. Research leads me here.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Man thank you so much! That’s super nice to hear. So I actually just bought a 2013 ktm 500 exc. I have only put a couple thousand km’s on it so far. But the plan is to see how it does as a light weight adv bike. I was riding some gnarly (for me) single track the other day that I am pretty confident I would have turned back if I was on the Dr650, but the 500 was amazing off road. In one day I put over 600kms of off road and highway on the bike. I was dead when I got back. It wasn’t super windy that day but I am curious how much difference there is between the dr650 and the ktm in the wind. The 500 is definitely more vibraty. Especially in the feet. I have a seat concepts tall seat so the butt comfort is marginally different, just narrower than the 500. The power is night and say difference between the two that is for sure. I feel like at this point if I was going to get something bigger and more comfortable I would be aiming my sights at a 690 enduro R.

[@austinharris6193]

@rangeroadmoto majority of my KTM500 time was as a snowbike actually. I highly recommend getting a track kit for the winter 👌. For someone new to street riding the KTM500 was too tall and light for me to feel confident over 80km/hr (knobby tires probably didn't help) so I definitely want something with a lower center of gravity and a little more weight to build confidence in Calgary traffic. I think I'm gonna go with the DR650 because I can buy 2 for the price of a KTM690. Then I won't be afraid to push myself and drop it lol. Thank you for taking the time to respond. Maybe I'll see you out at the Wanderer event sometime in the future 👍

[@stevecrocker6904]

modding potential is why we buy DRs. Unfortunately they can't be sold new in Australia any more because of a lack of mandated ABS as of end of 2022. I bought a very slightly used 2008 model in 2011 and was advised to do some trips before deciding what, and in what order, I wanted to change. That trip was a 7,000km ride (including lots of sand) to Australia's red centre from Sydney return, my baptism to off road adventure. My list of mods now, 12 years later are as follows: large exhaust pipe and 2002 GSXR750 muffler, TM40 pumper carb, bash plate, 17" road wheels/road tyres for suburban use and braided front line (this combination together with its relatively light weight makes it a very decent suburban stopper), rear spring and shock upgrade (ie my own shock recalibrated by a DR specialist) to suit my travelling weight, front guard aluminium stiffener, Ricoh intimidators for front forks, 22 litre Acerbic tank gives up to 400+ kms range, rear rack, side racks and soft bags, small deflector windscreen, heated grips, LED headlight, waterproof 12V heavy amp socket, and the usual precautionary fixes (NSU unit safety wired, rear upper chain guide removed, front sprocket seal), pivot pegs, BarkBuster hand guards. No doubt I'll edit and add to this. I have a KTM 790 Adventure for normal road touring with off road jaunts whenever possible but the DR I'd trust anywhere and it has a much lighter weight. I'll keep the DR650 forever. I have kept the standard bars. I've had no reason to change them to this point AND I've always been comfortable enough on the standard seat (I did 1100kms in a day on it once). The other thing, the main thing, I'd like to add is this. I would argue you'll bond more with your bike as a companion, friend even, when you take the time and thought to modify it yourself. Many people can plunk down a credit card for their latest fancy with all and any options added on by the dealer, but what incentive is there to keep it when the next big thing arrives? Just get out the card again - same old, same old.

[@mjfalcon007]

This was fantastic, I loved the creative approach! Great video and I’m glad to hear of your experience after modifying your DR.

[@WackyShackTexas]

I may have missed it but how tall are you? Great video btw thanks!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks Andrew! I’m 6’2”

[@1naashun]

“3700 Freedom Units” 😂😂😂😂 Subscribed!

[@rangeroadmoto]

😬😬😬 ahahha

[@overlandertv]

Nice vid, I did a trip on a customised DR and wouldnt change a thing. Bike did everything I wanted it to. And I could lift it :)

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks for watching! They are great when they are upgraded. Make such a good all rounder

[@garywinkworth3380]

sounds and looks good

[@cranerigging3604]

So far the only modification we did to our DR 650 is install a 14 tooth drive sprocket to gear it down a little . Other than that I aint got any complaints . 👍 Suzuki has forgot more about building motorcycles than most riders will ever get figured out . 😁 My question is at 0:07 ..... Is this a Suzuki corporation problem or did riders forget how to ride a motorcycle ?

[@rangeroadmoto]

Are you suggesting that if someone wants something upgraded it is because of a lack of knowledge? I guess to answer the question you would have to try an upgraded one and see if it is any better.

[@cranerigging3604]

@@rangeroadmoto I'd say they need to learn how to ride the Bike before changing it . Like I stated Suzuki has forgot more about building ......... Ride the bike ! 😁

[@Jon87224]

Range Road Moto Can you please give us a list of the exact parts that you put on in the description? Also will all these fit the DR 650SE?

[@josevarona7885]

Cool man. I’ve been watching videos every night on dr builds for like 2 weeks.😂 this is what I’m doing when I find one.

[@BadgerMcblasty]

Ha, man I forgot I was subscribed to you, not exactly a consistent content drop, but love the content when you do. My DR set up B&B offroad after markets Front sprocket case saver Oil cooler guard Rear luggage plate and carry rack Front fender brace Swing arm chain guard Tail tidy Frame guard Engine case protectors All except the last item is powder coated black. LED headlight ( can’t remember the brand ). ODI handlebars ( yes, I never heard of the brand too, but they were cheaper and as sturdy ) FFRC ( Australian company ) suspension upgrade Delkavic full exhaust system Pannier rack Sargent seat Pivot pegz Peg lowering kit Acerbis 20 litre tank ( grey ) Bajarworx ( dark tint ) windshield Barkbusters The bike is a 2019 Model in grey, bought 2nd hand with 507km on the clock. With every after market in black and grey it looks awesome. Edit; it’s rejetted and drilled another hole in the air box too. Pretty standard.

[@rangeroadmoto]

haha thanks man! I am still around, maybe watching too much KZbin instead of posting on KZbin. That sounds like a sweet bike you got! I am assuming that's the same ODI that makes the grips? I always ran ODI longneck grips on my BMX's and I have a set of their grips on my DR. Thanks for the comment and watching the video!

[@BadgerMcblasty]

@@rangeroadmoto tell me about it, I’ve a seperate channel where I do a newsroom satire. Writing, filming, editing. Hard to do when you come home from work and just wanna sit down and have a🍺 relax and maybe play the ps5. I don’t even put half the effort you do, by the looks. A green screen and a bat skull mask is about as far as I go. 🤣 yea looks as though it’s the same company as the grips.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Yeah that’s for sure! But it’s good fun when you get something done

[@BadgerMcblasty]

@@rangeroadmoto agreed. It’s like you’ve put a little bit of yourself out there and it’s fun/interesting seeing how people interact with it.

[@andy3d1]

lovely lighting and photography.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Many thanks!

[@kentuckyjustice1408]

I've put more money into upgrades than I paid for the bike (used). If I had it to do all over again, I wouldn't do anything different, with exception to the seat. I'd go with the Seat Concepts seat instead of the Sargents seat that I have. In addition to the upgrades that most folks do, I added 4 accessory lights to the front, Steg Pegz (for the stand up game) and panier racks with Rotopax mounted on each side (yep, I have the 5.3 gal. tank too). Nice bike; good video.👍

[@kenkayser9337]

Bark busters, skid plate, tires. 10,000 miles

[@rangeroadmoto]

Those were the first things (plus a seat) that I did to mine. Probably the most important.

[@High_Octane]

And theeeeeee. You sold it. Drank the koolaid that is modifying a 90’s bike. Just get a tenere. Already. The 90’s bikes are best left stock.

[@rangeroadmoto]

I get what you’re saying(ish). I think any bike I have is going to get springs to match my weight. I am not the weight that most bikes are designed for. I just bought a ktm. Gonna give that a try and see how it goes. Tenere is a great bike, (I’ve done a video about it) I’m more interested in lighter weight stuff for right now. Dr650 is still a great bike, and koolaid is pretty yummy for coloured sugar water. Enjoy your bike 👍

[@High_Octane]

@@rangeroadmoto Koop aid is also a great marketing scheme for sweetened coloured water.

[@rangeroadmoto]

👍

[@roaming-aus]

What happened to the Bark Busters in the end?

[@rangeroadmoto]

The new Renthal bars have a large transition in the upsweep bend and the bark buster clamps would not fit on with what I had. So I had to order different sized clamps for the bark busters. They took a while to come in, so for a few shots they were missing

[@stephenprideaux8122]

44 tooth rear sprocket makes riding a lot smoother without changing fuel economy

[@carsthatlast441]

Your videos are really well done. Subbed. Thanks!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you! And thanks for watching :)

[@bradsanders6954]

I totally upgraded my DR, suspension is real important....but I didnt go wild elsewhere on it, just the basics................it seemed good, put 51,000 miles on it. Just changing springs? Makes the shock kick harder, it has no damping. Over heats badly. Cogent shock is the way. Jetting can lead to never ending issues, especially at altitude. Everyone hates noise, except the person making the noise. @ 6 foot tall, stock bar heidth, Im totally comfortable standing, the idea is you crouch and lean forward, like on a dirtbike. Changing exhaust makes more noise, thats about it.....A DR is a long ways from any kind of singletrack bike. Near 400lbs...............non rubber mounted pegs will buzz like crazy on road. Once a DR is used? Its not worth squat. No matter how much was spent on it. Then I got an 890R KTM...............real hard to get back on the DR.....nearly impossible in fact.

[@jackheinemann1994]

Yeah but your 890r costs 3 times as much

[@bradsanders6954]

@@jackheinemann1994 Sadly, with all the mods a DR650 needs to even work somewhat decently, it would cost over 11K if you bought a new DR and did set up on it. If the price of a new 890R is the issue, a new DR ends up being real pricey, and the DR is worth less than zip at resale, no matter how much has been spent on it, its just a DR......100HP, great engine, great electrics, all top quality parts.....An 890R is a very different animal. For many, a bone stock DR is a wallow hog joke, they need a lotta work.

[@jackheinemann1994]

@@bradsanders6954 Your missing the point, your comparing a BMW 5 series with a corolla. I have a DR, its great, it was accsesable for someone in my situation to buy and ride. Of course an Africa Twin or 890 is a better bike but they cost so much and I just cant afford that right now. My DR will take me anywhere too, Itll sit on the freeway for hrs on end, and I can slide it inbetween trees and up the steepest hill climbs. And no one said you had to dump 5 grand into it to be able to go riding either. Ive slowly been building mine into the bike

[@bradsanders6954]

@@jackheinemann1994 The issue brought up was price of a new 890R compared to a DR650, which is maybe 7500 new these days. For most that ride a DR in the dirt, the bike needs serious help, and this, and that, it can be done bits and pieces at a time...and ends up being a 400lb bike ready to roll on a long day trip. 3K barely touches it for trying to make a DR work. But they do, Ive got 51,000 miles on mine. I would much rather ride the DR on dirt than the 890R.

[@АлександрИгоревич-п1п]

Увеличить бак и поставить диодную фару, другие обновления этому МОТу не нужны , это моё мнение.

[@jrbass62]

You are left with the bike Suzuki should be selling...

[@PeterR0035]

💓GREAT! thank you!

[@rangeroadmoto]

My pleasure!

[@DontPanic4422]

Excruciating audio assault

[@rangeroadmoto]

wow, that sounds painful. Let me offer you a refund.

[@kloppskalli]

7:48 a bush pig with ... WHAT?

[@rangeroadmoto]

Lipstick. There’s a special brand that is pig safe.

[@milo8425]

Incredible filmmaking for a dirt bike upgrade video. Even the writing and narration were top notch, I mean god, "bush pig with some lipstick", fucking brilliant. Are you a filmmaker full time outside of youtube?

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks Milo! I have fun doing this stuff, it’s fun to see what I can do with a relatively simple subjects. Not a filmmaker per se but I am in video production.

[@stratertele347]

Great video!!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you!

[@YourLocalRaccoon]

Are you ever going to do other power mods? High compression piston, big bore kit (the 790cc interests me), stroker kit, hotcams, etc. Should definitely come back with another great video if you do any of that. Maybe a dirt race track review before and after? If you still have the bike that is.

[@rangeroadmoto]

The video I just posted will answer that question, haha. And I did look into some engine mods, and fork swaps

[@goldyg6511]

cool video dude, sweet bike, I have same mods! IF you can afford it someday look for TM40 carb, my next mod is fork and clamp replacement from a YZ or RM inverted modern forks valved for the big blue sweet ride and maybe a new head someday with big valves so can breathe the DR comes with tiny valves for 650 cheers happy trails

[@rangeroadmoto]

Yeah the TM40 seems to be the way to go for these bikes! Thanks for watching and the kind words!

[@ilyaivanov2283]

Классное видео, хороший апгрейд. Необходимо другой стоп сигнал за место штатного.

[@coolprof1951]

How much did you spend on these mods, and what's your total investment after doing so....I"m curious....thanks!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hard to say as most of the items I bought used for much cheaper than new. I paid $3200 ($2500usd) Canadian for the bike and I’d say around $1000cdn ($800usd) in parts. But it would have cost much more if I wouldn’t have wait for good deals and scrounged around. Overall I think I got a good deal on the bike and the parts, definitely worth more than I have into with all this crazy bike inflation.

[@BraapPacker]

How tall are you?

[@rangeroadmoto]

6’2” ish

[@majorawol]

I did all this plus got the ADV wheel set-up. That is, a fatter rear (150) and a 19" front (at 120 I think) -- That was expensive... and I feel made it look way better, added a fun factor for riding... but ultimately I compromised all it's off-road ability. In the end... although it gave me more smiles... once I got used to it, it just felt like it lost it's edge with those sumo style wheels. After 5 years I sold it. Now I ride a KTM 950sm... wish it was an SE, but whatever... I don't miss the DR as much as I loved her.

[@rangeroadmoto]

The 950 is an amazing bike! I’ve seen some sumo’d 650’s but never got the chance to ride one. The DRZ400sm does such a good job at it I would probably go that route. Thanks for watching!

[@xrgiok]

Such a positive video!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Yea, I think there’s enough negative stuff out there I don’t need to add to it.

[@modshiftmotion]

You covered all the good stuff. Cool video man. I guess it's worth it!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks man! You got much done to your DR?

[@modshiftmotion]

@@rangeroadmoto For sure.. I do. All the exhaust, intake, jet, front suspension, bars, tires, lights, gas tank.. pretty happy were it's at now. Just right. Cheers man.

[@parcadv419]

WE GOT A 2004 DR 650. THE REASON WE BOUGHT THIS BIKE .... THE UPGRADES !!!!! i enjoyed your video very much, watching what you did just solidified what we got. the upgrades are so similar, all the way to the racetech shock spring . however we have the led head lamp ,it even has a cooling fan to cool it, big plus, and an extended tusk shift lever. this also works well with boots. their are fun to ride and half the weight of other 650,s

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks for watching! I also got an LED headlight, sounds like a similar model to the one you got. They definitely are fun!

[@user-so5ow5ms2g]

great video. How do you like the Tall SC seat? How tall are you? My DR came with a Sargent low version - thinking of switching.

[@rangeroadmoto]

I love it, I am on the taller side(6’2”) though and it will make touching the ground harder.

[@intrigue175175]

Great production.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks!

[@Pezzy-Boy]

Thank you kind sir for putting in the effort and time to produce something of this caliber! Also, may I have the song name and artist, which starts playing from 5:35? 😁

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks for watching! The song is called “punk’d” by “Out Of Flux”

[@Enemiesexposed]

Mine is still bone stock.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Nothing wrong with that!

[@stephenprideaux8122]

Dunlop 606 130 rear Pirelli MT 21 front For me best on road and off road , have done 84 thousand kilometres and have tried many options

[@rangeroadmoto]

You’ve done 84,000km on your DR?? That must be like 40 d606 tires haha

[@kylebodenham4911]

Hey nice vid, sweet bike. How have you got those rear blinkers fitted. I’ve been looking for ideas on how to fit them a bit higher like that.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks! They are mounted to the same spot as the factory ones were. Not sure how you could get them any higher without building a bracket

[@christopherkonzelmann348]

Fantastic!!! 😀👌🏼

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thanks!!

[@PartsandParcels]

This is cool! I learned to ride on a DR650, it was uncomfortable and great. Also using gallons instead of litres to measure liquid while being Canadian is a sin.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hahah I love that. I should have put a Canadian translation in there. If Miles are freedom units what are litres to Canadians!

[@ethan.hk3994]

You’ve won me over. Love your editing and jokes, and educational! Wow!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you so much!

[@spacelamaglama]

very nice build!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Thank you!

[@rugged04270]

Your videos are great! The number of subscribers you have should be criminal. Can't wait to see your channel grow!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Hey thanks Josh! That’s nice to hear man! Thanks for watching

[@coloradomountainmoto]

I LOVE how that bike sounds! Almost like a deep throated two stroke, absolutely beautiful!

[@rangeroadmoto]

Yeah! That procycle exhaust really made it sound a whole lot better

[@showstopper4200able]

I'll really appreciate your efforts and feedback. I've been fighting in my head on what I want.

[@rangeroadmoto]

Glad I could help! Everyone’s opinions are different on modifications and you might value some things more than myself but they worked well for me