Suzuki DR650 Brutally Honest Review

[@whitedrguy6503]

No complaints with my DRs, best bikes I have owned by a fair stretch. I love the utilitarianism of the bike, I bought my first DR650 in 1998 as a replacement for a Kawasaki KLX 650, I worked as a motorcycle courier here in Melbourne Australia, then I quit the job in 2000, I clocked up 115,000 klms on that bike. In 2005 I started as a courier again so the obvious choice was another DR, 9 years and 490,000 klms later I needed another one, so my current DR did another 275,000 klms before I quit being a courier again, now I use it as my adventure bike, it currently has 316, 000 klms on the clock. I also own a Yamaha T7 that I bought in 2020, basically as a more road bike but still capable dirt road touring bike, my go to bike is still my DR, at 5’9” and 62 years old the T7 is too big and heavy, the DR is perfect for me.

[@Speedytrip]

Wow that’s awesome, nearly half a million km on a DR!!! That has to be the most I’ve seen so far! I rented a 1200Gs in melbourne 3 years ago, such a beautiful country to explore…one you’ve learned the hook turn and riding on the wrong side of the road…😁😎

[@martyn_g]

@@Speedytrip hook turn? Piece of piss, lol. I did my first one at 18. On my own, and worked it out myself 😂

[@bobturnbull18]

@@martyn_g Well done you ! Please post videos.

[@Speedytrip]

@@martyn_g The added complexity comes from fighting the reflex to ride on the right side of the road, as I've done for over 40 years :) Not to mention tramway tracks. Took me about a day of riding before I wasn't constantly fighting my instincts :)

[@whitedrguy6503]

@@Speedytrip I had a similar problem when I spent 2 weeks riding around Romania, left turns had me freaked out not to mention checking my left mirror more than the right. Wet weather and tram tracks are definitely not a good combination and hook turns are an absolute pain in the proverbial,they are basically so you don’t hold up trams but the trams hold up traffic constantly anyway.

[@jonwoodworker]

IMHO, the DR650 is easily in the top 10 best motorcycles ever made.

[@americandude3825]

Agreed. Along with the Yamaha tw200, Yamaha super tenere, bmw gs1250, Honda Africa twin, Honda gold wing, Kawasaki klr650, versys 650 2015+ There’s a bunch. Hahaha

[@nnlniclb]

@@americandude3825 a top 10 motorcycle list with 0 sport bikes? wow

[@Speedytrip]

Personnaly I find sport bikes quite boring on public roads…you can lose your license in 1st gear on the highway so its hard to really enjoy on the streets while keeping your license :)

[@nnlniclb]

@@Speedytrip I mean at least a couple got to be in there. In my books a hayabusa, K5/K6 GSX-R and an H2 got to be there in that list.

[@joshdoddadbod]

If they just made that first gear shorter it would be perfect.

[@Thebonesoftrees]

My 21 year old 3rd apprentice took a ride on my clapped up bored out old KLR in a parking lot. First gear sweaps around the lot last week, he got hooked. He has decided he wanteda bike This afternoon he called asking what to get , either 400 ninja, an old 750 honda twin, or an 08 nicely maintained 25'000km DR650. I recommended the Suzuki, he watched reviews, talked to his parents. Tonight he called and he's bought the Suzuki. We are on Vancouver Island, the perfect place for bushpigs, this year is gonna be a blast. Cheers.

[@bloodybonescomic]

My '98 DR 650 is a gem. I absolutely love it for those rough dirt roads. And I am 65 years old.

[@kevinfieguth4377]

I love my basically stock DR650. It's an 06 but only had 940 miles on it. I lowered the foot pegs and rear shock. All I did to the kick stand is grind the stop back. At 67 years old, I enjoy the ride and can take any dirt roads I feel I want to explore. I added a National Cycle wind screen and a camera system. I added a luggage rack and bag brackets, also a 1.75 Fuel Pax tank that gives me over 5 gallons. Now after a 22 day adventure in Death Valley with my two sons I'm sold on the Bush Pig, and the Harleys are collecting dust, lol. Good review. Thanks.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks and I love seeing older riders still having the passion, I hope that’s what my retirement will look like! 😎🤜🤛

[@kevinfieguth4377]

@@Speedytrip Also I want to mention it's more of a dirt road/highway bike. We loaded all three bikes with the intent of staying out two or three nights then returning to base camp which is a toyhauler. These bikes were the perfect choice for running 4x4 roads and highway with the ability to handle all our camping gear. We had a complete blast!

[@Mariolucker]

I own 20 of these bikes. I use them on motorcycle tours on some of the toughest roads in Central Asia. Every half a year they work from 9 am to 6 pm, every day, every month like office employees. Some of them have passed the 100,000 miles mark. They are still alive!) Of course this bike is not as popular as a KTM or a BMW. but he is a workhorse! I do not regret choosing this model.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for sharing! :)

[@armadilllo]

waaaaaay more dependable than any bmw I've owned

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

I hooe they keep making them like this forever and if they have to remake the tooling to get it right they do because theres something about this swiss army knife and how its like this rock solid immovable relic. Still blows my mind harley cancelled those iron sportsters if i was me id have never let that dumb women run that company into the ground id have stayed away from electric bike and so instesd kf spinning off a livewire company id have just brought the different versions of all the sportsters back in a made to order fashion with all the crap not messing them up and spun that off as a subsidiary because the irons were like the dr650 in ways and then the plandemic hit and they axed it and drive the company into the ground and indians actually been on the come up but theyre a smaller company witu an unusual structuring of ownership parent company and so theyre more like a smal lcompany punching up at harley like davd vs goliath harley just has so much miney they afforded being run into the ground but damn they lose so much making and sucking at selling electrics and they csncel the irons and come out woth the sportster s and the nightster and I just dont think they hit the same in the peoples souls a lot lime how the dr65p does and the iron 1200 did where they were raw workhorse machines. Both bikes have their flaws but only 1 is left now and i hope they just keep making that dr650 forever and ever i cam sfford one right now i think itll be my next buy im just waiting until the money is extra right so i dont regret itnand sell it and regret it like my last bikes. I will put a winsheild on it a seat and maybe later the bigger tank and maybe not even the seat right away and ill try to buy it in winter to ssve money im very poor so it costs a lot to pay 7k for the bike 500 for a helmet 50p for a jacket 250 for somed heated and nkn heated gloves insursmce dmv gasoline the 2nd set of tires the first 2 or 3 oil changes before you know it youre in about 10k and 10k buys a lot better bikes i could buy a better bike none of the gear and then thrift shop my gear on the cheap but thats also mayne not best i think i want th dirtbike type street bike because where i live you go on the rosd to get off it thats where all the fun is at

[@jensenmiller6410]

You forgot about the community. The DR seems to just attract nice people and it is reflected in the DR forums. Everyone's very nice, and very knowledgeable.

[@Speedytrip]

Very true! 🤜🤛

[@khakimzhanmiras]

As opposed to?

[@jensenmiller6410]

@@khakimzhanmiras The DRZ community comes to mind first. The DRZ attracts a more immature buyer, and that's reflected in the online communities built around it.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

​@@khakimzhanmirasthe supersport bikers who make it unaffordable for me to buy one because theyre always crashing and dying, fleeing from the police or getting busted for street racing and speeding over 150

[@Speedytrip]

@@khakimzhanmiras I also own a Super Tenere, and this community is much less active in general, via forums or facebook. The DR has a large crowd of all backgrounds, a bit like the KLR.

[@MrPartyplopper]

As an former aircraft mechanic fanatic, To be brutally honest. The weld lines/curves and how it has been shaped through years of trial and error THIS is peak mechanical performance and redundancy at once. Minimalistic, budgetfriendly, materialquality, size, performance wise and overall appearance and aerodynamics. My fatherly instincts would go MAD if I had such a beautiful machine under my maintenance responsibility plan.

[@ArturoEspinosaAldama]

I live in Mexico. Have traveled all over the country. This bike will take you anywhere, will get you out of any place, no matter how bad. Nothing like riding a bike that you know will overcome every possible obstacle, pot hole, speed bump, trail or river bed, and get you wherever you decided to go on a whim, or wherever the *** Google Maps decided to take you because you checked "No tolls" . Really, this bike will take care of you: it will do more than you may be willing to confront on a trip. That's priceless.

[@enriquejaimes3368]

Hola Arturo, Yo tambien estoy en Mexico pensando comprar esta moto. Que tal es para hacer viajes de fin de semana por ejemplo de CDMX a queretaro? Se comporta decente en carretera? (obvio dentro de sus limitantes) La recomendarias sobre una KLR o una Tenere 660 usada?

[@ArturoEspinosaAldama]

@@enriquejaimes3368 La moto sufre mucho en autopista, aunque te lleva y no falla, pero vas a ir lento e incómodo. La KLR nueva la han tuneado para jalar mejor en vías rápidas, pero ha perdido entonces algo del carácter doble propósito. Si quieres llegar rápido a Qro, no te recomiendo la DR: no es su misión. Con la DR, para temas de pavimento, la onda es carreteras libres: jala muy bien para curvear y eso. Excelente para viajes donde el chiste es salir a descubrir los rincones, tomar las carreteras más panorámicas y explorar sin limitantes de tiempo. No es una buena commuter. Yo por ejemplo si voy a Valle de Bravo, me voy por toda la libre y allí se disfrtua mucho. En cambio, en la autopista te aburrirías y la pasarías un poco incómodo. De la Teneré, no tengo experiencia pero puede que por los carenados vaya un poco mejor en autopista, además de tener motor bicilíndrico, no?

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Bikes in rain, very dangerous i now avoid when its wet entirely i will camp in a tent under a anything until it dries up before im getting on my bike in the rain. Every time i go out during rain or while the water hasnt quite run off the first like 10 minutes after the rain stops something bad happens and i find myself lucky to be unharmed. To me i look s tthe type of statistics that ar emotorcycle accidents and most are lone acicdents caused by the rider and when im slidding around in water with 2 wheels im nervous even whith 4 i will just wait it out because i live in a semi arid enviorment and it might not even rain that much it rained on and off for like a week it rained a little every day a coupme days it was real lots of rain and it was tge most rain weve ever had usually its just a drought most of the time so where i live il lwait it out because i dont spec ant tires that are mesnt esspecially for handling water and bikes arent really good at that anyway and i perfer to live. My motorcycle saftey insrructor told.us if you come.to a red light or stop sign and you see a giamt semi grill behind you you cant stall your bike or take off slowly you need to know what youre doing or else the semi will run you over without even realising it. As my instructor said you become road pizza and you dont want someone else to have to shovel your corpse into a bucks because you became road pizza. In the rain its hars for cars to even see whats going on people got bad winsheild wipers helmets dont even have them so its hars to see i just avoid the rain i live im a desert ill wait it out if the rain forcasted all day i jusy dont ride ill borrow one of my families cars if the trip is important enough

[@robleach1335]

I'm 66, I've had my 06 5 years and have put 50000km on it. It has never let me down, it keeps up well enough with riding buddies, KTM 790, Africa Twin and KLR. I ride mainly gravel roads. The DR suits my needs perfectly.

[@Speedytrip]

Ive had an AT and klr, the AT is amazing, but I much prefer the DR over KLR :)

[@pierredelux2319]

Im 66 too i was wondering between the africa twin the super tenere and I end up on this video! Looks kool

[@Speedytrip]

@@pierredelux2319 I have another video on the africa twin vs the super tenere too that you might find useful :) They all have their pros and cons but Im loving the dr650 more than I could have ever imagined!

[@pandytbox]

I love my DR. It is my 2nd. I laughed when you displayed the feature list. Very detailed.

[@Speedytrip]

A lot of research went into that list 😁

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

So you sold your first one and regretted it. Ive done the same thing with golf clubs twice

[@danielc5205]

I got 2,000 miles already on my new 2022 DR 650. I personally like the outdated design and looks of the DR 650. Coming from a WR 450F, there's no more 12 hours oil changes, $1,000 top end replacements, and no more fuel injection problems to worry about. With the DR 650's under-stressed 644cc engine, with proper maintenance and use, I foresee the DR 650's engine to lasting along time before any major problems or overhauls. I don't like awkward pressers the rubber mounted foot pegs puts on my feet while standing and the stock bar height is a little too low. Solid mounted foot pegs and bar raisers will fix these things. Eventually I'd like to lace a 18" rim to the rear hub of my DR 650 for better tire choices. The DR 650's 17" rear wheel is hard to find tires for.

[@trevorjameson3213]

And your DR650 will run smoother and a little stronger off the lower rpms if you get the block off kit and remove that stupid PAIR valve emissions thing. It's also noisy and lots of guys with new DR650's in the forums are complaining about "engine noise" when in fact that rattling sound is the PAIR valve operating. Simple fix, remove it and block it off. Kits are available online.

[@lshort8842]

Good review! I did the factory lowering AND added Soupy's lowering links to my '17 DR. Had to cut and reweld the kickstand. Acerbis 5.3 tank and Dirtracks pannier racks with soft luggage, Parabellum windscreen. Now I can flat foot the bike with my 30 inch inseam. Gravel and dirt roads are my limit at my age, (70) and the Bush Pig is perfect for my needs. IF I were still doing deep woods riding, I'd get another XT250 for the reliability and low weight.

[@l.a.raustadt518]

At sixty eight and alternating between an Wee Strom and a 1000V Strom that DR looks like a great option. I would lower one and just get a plastic tank probably not a huge one just to keep weight down. The wind shield could be a rally style. Thanks for your info. I don't even own one and I have it built ! Safe riding from Minnesota.

[@Speedytrip]

Many complain about the weight of the bigger tank but its only heavier if you fill it to the top, otherwise tank is lighter and actually carries the weight lower. If Im planning on hitting a very technical trail I probably wobt start with a full tank, but 99% of the time I fill it up completely. Bike is still MUCH lighter than most bikes Ive owned including a 600lbs SUper Tenere, 570lbs Mt-01 and 500lbs Africa Twin :) The DR is only heavy if you compare it to a dirt bike.

[@Oddman1980]

It's absolutely the most entertaining bike I've ever had. Mine has survived mudholes, hail, historic flooding, falling from tailgates onto the road, and a pontiac. I bought my 2009 DR650 back in 2013, from a family member who bought it new. It's had a rough life, and one good drowning in a mudhole. It had a few mods, but didn't really run that well, but I rode it for several years without any big issues. It finally got to the point where it was really hard to start, and I ended up rebuilding the top end, with a high compression piston and oversize valves. It already had a full exhaust and a TM40, this along with the work I did means I have to run a 16 tooth sprocket not to keep the engine RPM down, but to keep me from standing the bike up at stoplights. I also upgraded the springs on mine (I'm about 225) and it made a huge difference in the bike.

[@keithmoule4154]

Very interesting summary, thank you. I have the UK's DR650 engine equipped CCM 644. Had two of them, with the second bike taken to 710cc by myself and oh my, what a transformation! With the reliability of the DR engine, up-specced Brembo brakes, Renthal 'bars and WP suspension (with the WP PDS linkage-less rear shock) it is an iteration of the DR and a much underrated bike but which suits me down to the ground. As you say, so simple to work on in the field but then I've never had a moment's unreliability from it. Coming up 18 years of ownership and no intention of letting it go......

[@Speedytrip]

Id love to try a big bore kit and compare! 😎

[@mikeh.4087]

I love my DR. I did like the soft springs on the road but i off road too so i had to put springs and valves in the forks and stiffen the rear. Still rides great and handles better. As far as a carb goes for 20 or 30 dollars i have mine running as good or better than any bike out there. Fuel injected you will have to find someone to change programming send the ecu out hope it isnt lost in the mail and hope the hack you send it to knows what they are doing just to get it ridable. I am happy with the carb. I really enjoy the DR. It makes me smile everytime i get on it

[@Speedytrip]

A properly set carb is great, but over time, it typically needs to be rebuilt, and more importantly where I live temperature fluctuates quite a bit, I can ride at -5C like I can ride at 40C, EFI will always run great regardless of temperature, with a carb you'll often find yourself having to adjust it. Also aside from someone wanting to remap injection for an exhaust or to smooth out throttle response, I can't remember last time I heard someone say their bike was running bad because of the injection...but any forum with carbed bikes will have hundreds of posts of owners struggling to get their bikes running good. Always compromises, I can live with a carb, but would prefer EFI even if I had to have it remapped ONCE :) I can also understand those that prefer carbs for the ability to adjust and modify with the most basic tools :)

[@bennyblanko3]

@@Speedytrip The new KTM's come really lean from the factory. They really need to be remapped, even brand new. But, fuel injection is nice, like you said, because you don't need to think about it. I don't mind messing with carbs though, and seem to like older bikes (I only have one fuel injected bike - a Stratoliner). Nice review. I have a KLR650 and sometimes think maybe I should sell it and get a DR650 ? I have a DR350 which I plated, and it always makes me smile.

[@PrimoStracciatella]

I bought a used XR650L because it was priced right, my first enduro ever. Liked it and installed a K&N air filter and an aftermarket muffler, put some holes in the side covers to let it breathe. Then I got a DR650SE and felt as if it was just right the way it was. Lots of usable power down low, it felt stronger than the Honda with the mods. I used it mainly on the road, to go to work, and for short rides. I still remember it fondly but forgot lots of other bikes I've owned.

[@HybridHalfie]

That's awesome. I am about to buy a dual-sport bike that is reliable and can ride on dirt roads cause my house is in the mountains in Colorado. It came down to the DR560SE and Honda XR650L and my wife is 5'6 I am 6'0. It seems if you do more street and dirt road riding and not as much explicit offroading go for the suzuki while the honda is better if you more offroading cause of the suspension. I will get into off roading but it more for getting around our mountain neighborhood relly easily rather than second car (car's are way to too expensive for me nowadays to sink money into bikes are faster, cooler, better for environment and economical for the pocketbook relatively), The height seems to be the biggest reason I am going with the Suzuki which is tough a bit for me cause I am a honda fan boy (owned and drove a rebel 250 bike and a S2000 car; sold both when i moved to mountains). Would you you agree with this?

[@Speedytrip]

Im 6’1, abc my passenger was 5’5, I lowered the pegs, put a taller seat, raised the handlebars and my dr650 is on of the most spacious bikes ive owned. Not great for 2 up touring though when your tall, it leaves little space fior the passenger at the back…

[@PrimoStracciatella]

@@HybridHalfie The Honda is extreme, you can ride the Baja 1000 with it right out of the box. The DR has more low down torque, which I like. I'm also a Honda guy but sometimes I stray... Yamaha's XS650 and the big Intruder are high on my list of bikes I'd get again.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Does it suck on its own farts?

[@thilomauz9717]

I own the direct successor of the DR, the glorious Freewind, with the same engine. It's a bit more street oriented but still quite capable offroad, but has more loading capacity. And I can completely and wholeheartedly sign where it says "Fun. Fun. Fun."

[@dune7824]

The DR650 is a bike for those who just want to ride and not wrench. Never put more maintenance free miles on any other bike I've owned and I've put the DR through the ringer. Simpson Desert, Tanami, NSW divide, Robe to Beachport. The fact it's so inexpensive also make you more likely to ride it hard and it just keeps surprising with it's resilience to abuse.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Listen I wont lie you wrench on every bike its oart of it a bolt rattles loose if you cant find it you have to put another in its like clockwork in bikes in my exprieince sometikes you just want to take wrench and see if anything is loose that shouldnt be never hurts bro its only your life on the line the more you keep that thing in tip top shape the better same with your rifle

[@dune7824]

@@TheAnnoyingBoss Listen, I also will not lie, you've missed the point or you're trolling. I'll assume the former and elaborate. When I say "not wrench" I mean it has a less maintenance intensive schedule than higher performance bikes. Not to be taken literally. The places I've taken this bike will leave anyone without sound mechanical understanding and application of preventative maintenance, improvision (bush mechanics) in a world of hurt.

[@zardportugal]

Iconic! One of the best ever made.

[@Speedytrip]

Agreed 👊

[@tomkruze2749]

I’ve owned my DR for 11 years. 12,000 miles and it has 3 thousand when I bought it. I’ve done Nothing but, brakes and tires plus carb rebuild and stiffer shock (240lbs). The bike is indestructible!!! Best thing bike or car I’ve ever owned. I ride on weekends year round in Georgia USA. I’m seriously thinking of buying a second (New) just to keep (barn Queen). They Just don’t build things like the DR anyone. Get one Now while you still can.

[@barzahd7]

Nice review! I have 2008 dr650 and that was the last year to import dr650 here in korea because of the emission regulation. So blessed to have one :)

[@Speedytrip]

Maybe Suzuki will make a completely new DR that meets latest regulations :)

[@김뎀굳]

저도 한국에 거주하는 라이더입니다. DR650 정말 최고죠 ^^ 지금도 잘타고 있습니다.

[@PaulKind3d]

@@Speedytrip we all wish, but i doubt it personally. A new and improved DR would steal the wind from their very well selling VStroms. IMHO the vstrom is suzukis answer to the dr becomming "obsoleted". Lets hope im wrong.

[@Speedytrip]

@PaulKind3d Yeah I see them as two complitely different bikes, the biggest challenge is probably environmental requirements, they might need to make it liquid cooled…the Dr remains a better offroad bike and thd vstrom is a better street/touring/adventure bike.

[@davidklementis5913]

Great review! Love the huge list of options/features 😆 I bought my 2018 DR650 in June and have put close to 5k miles on it. It is a great all around bike that fits my needs perfectly as my primary transportation and as a middle aged guy. I've been riding since 2006 mostly on a 2007 FZ6 and was ready for something simple and light as I slow down to enjoy the scenery. Kept the FZ for the occasional spirited ride.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks, we bought the same year bike at about the same time and put about the same mileage hehe I also had an FZ6 back in the day, fun little engine with a delightful sound when you rev it! Keep the shiny side up :)

[@wesleywheeler7891]

I traded in a 2020 katana for one of these things. The DR rattles, it wants to fall over in turns, it hesitates on the throttle, and the power signs off past half throttle....and I've loved every moment of it.

[@Speedytrip]

If it hesitates on throttle you probably want to tune the carb, when I bought mine (used) airbox had been opened with a chainsaw, carb jet was changed and there was a lot of hesitation when bike was cold, and generally anything at slower speeds. Recently I took the time to re-close the airbox a bit, opened the carb, changed the jet, re-ajusted the air-fuel ratio screw and it now runs like a champ, from the get go all the way to the redline (wherever that is) hehe :) Many used DR really don't run as well as they should. And if you bought it new and it runs like that, look up youtube for carb kits, they can be quite inexpensive and you'll transform the bike. If you love it now, you'll LOVE it after!

[@wesleywheeler7891]

@@Speedytrip i already know the work i need to do, just need to get the money for it. The plan was to get the exhaust and jet kits all at once so i just need tl worry about tuning it once

[@Speedytrip]

@@wesleywheeler7891 My friend has a Two Brothers on his, but it's VERY loud. I find the stock one quite decent (and I typically go for aftermarket exhausts on most of my bikes). Tuned as it is, I wouldn't change a thing :) There was also a guy I think from Australia that had a video on how to modify the carb and remove a bit of thickness to the welds on the inside of the headers...with amazing results for less than a dime.

[@wesleywheeler7891]

@@Speedytrip planning on the leo vince pipe. I'm not hunting the most performance. And itll help weightsavings, desrestrict my engine a fair bit while keeping my noise close to stock and doesn't need repacking

[@believe7088]

Riding dr since 2007. Bought a second one 2014. Used it together with my son. Great bikes. Commute everyday since 2007

[@marcjohnson7882]

Very good review, I agree on all points. These bikes are a terrific value, I got mine for 4500 at 8000 miles with a recently installed pumper carb, header and supertrapp exhaust and it really does run great. I went down to a 13 tooth countershaft sprocket and for 50 mph twisty mountain highways and general fire road work, it is perfect. I live in the Northern California coastal range so the bike is set up as a day tripper, I never really load it up. Super easy to work on, no unnecessary electronics, just point and shoot! If you plan on riding the same terrain that I mentioned, you can't go wrong.

[@Speedytrip]

That sounds like a great deal! Thanks for watching 🤜🤛

[@kristjansorensen8520]

I own 2012 DR, after 3 Honda XRs (400,600) and have kept this bike for ten years now. It has never let me down, always reliable. I agree that it is not the most technological bike but this thing just keeps going! I love it.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Thats a good thing to have bikes that both are and are not technologicsllt advanced. This is an advanced bike but nkt having computer chips and things and it runs on common walmart amazon autozone oreilies standard bulbs snd things plus it having so few panels in the way and suspension very capable of going almost anywhere. Ducatis unreliable because they have al lthese advanced things going on accelerometers and lean meters and shit. Crazy advanced engines. This is just one piston and its been the same for long time

[@davewalton2358]

The DR is a fantastic bike and brilliant value for money! Got mine new in 21. I've put a GSX-R muffler on it, 25L tank (great range now). Made a windscreen, rear rack and pannier racks. Added adjustable levers and lowered pegs, Renthal bars and risers for comfort, but mostly stock (even seat and suspension). Plenty of grunt for real world use and will tractor up any hill at any revs. Had a DRZ which was great in the bush but not so good for longer road trips, then a Tiger 800XC, which was fantastic on the road and still OK in the bush, (brilliant engine!) but heavy and I was always worried about expensive things breaking if it had to lay down for a rest. DR is capable at both, and easier to pick up than most ADV bikes if you happen to have an "unplanned dismount". Maintenance is so simple and the things go forever. If I ever feel like a new bike I think I will just spend a few quid on it and do some more upgrades and keep riding! PS- my Quadlock with vibration dampener still killed my iPhone camera, be wary. I use an old Samsung for navigation now and my good phone lives in my pocket or pack.

[@donuthole7236]

The DR is one of the best bikes I've ever owned and I've been riding for 45 years. Modded the hell out of it and converted it to a supermoto and now it's a blast to ride. Good review

[@DonHavjuan]

Best mid size adventure bike ever made.

[@stevecrocker6904]

my much modified DR650 is always sharing my garage with one other bike (at present a KTM 790 Adventure S). But the DR650 is the one I'll never sell

[@20TIL6]

I like mine. Used, hardly used 2013 with 250mi on the clock. Got it 3 years ago. Runs great. So far just paved roads mostly on the stock tires. I’m changing those soon to more off road capable tires and I’m expecting to enjoy the bike even more.

[@Speedytrip]

The real fun starts where the paved roads end 🤘

[@shaynespradlin3607]

Bought a new DR650. The only complaint I have is the deathwings are dangerous, the tank is too small, and the engine is very restricted which causes the engine to run a little too hot. No need for front suspension mod because this bike pulls so hard that the front wheel is rarely touching the ground. Procycle carb mod Opened the air box up Installed knobbys Installed Acerbis 5.3 gallon tank JNS peg mounts 1.5” lower Aftermarket wide pegs Heavier rear spring Seat concepts seat Baja light Fat bar handlebars Tusk bark busters

[@darrellschuler5201]

Great review. As straight forward and honest as the bike itself. Really fun and easy to watch, like the bike itself. I recently purchased one instead of a Honda CRF300L Rally or a BMW F750. Better for the mountain passes of Colorado than the 300 and a lot less scary to drop than the BMW. It's a solid foundation with enough aftermarket parts to make it anything you want it to be, almost. Thanks for the great review, almost as good as the bike itself.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for the kind words, really appreciated!

[@Speedytrip]

The best is to try them both and see what makes you smile more. My friend has a crf300L and stock and it felt underpowered, small, lacked caracter. He upgrade the clutch, put an exhaust line, changed the ECU and it transformed it completely (at a cost $$$). At 6’1 I still prefer the DR, but if I was shorter, lighter and willing to soend 2000$ on upgrades the crf300L would be a good option (suspensions are even softer on the honda so if your 200lbs youll need new springs, on the DR, 200lbs is doable on stock springs if you dont jump it).

[@butlindsayforge5403]

Very happy with my 06..bought it 15 years ago. Installed a JE high comp piston from procycle and what a difference. 50 k and no problems.

[@Andrew-sv3ck]

Love it. I have a ‘16 with cogent ddc in the front and the Mojave shock in the rear, stock other than that and ergo mods. Coming from dirt bikes, it’s far slower than my xr400r but it does the job offroad and is pretty capable on road.

[@TheDrewboy84]

You nailed it! Love my DR650!

[@armadilllo]

Love mine and like you have been through dozens of bikes. Keeping the motor totally stock, well. except for all the smog crap. just adding accessories, seat tank, skid plate, rear rack, luggage, bark busters risers, gps, charging port and tiny windscreen. The perfect bike and I've done 300 mile days no problem.

[@trevorjameson3213]

Keeping the engine stock is the best thing. Back in '16 I did a high compression piston and cam kit, with a pumper carb, and fmf pipe. Huge waste of money and time, let me tell you! It' true you will get a little more power in the upper rpms, but it's not that much more. And it ruins the fuel economy completely. Stock, it was getting 53mpg and after the engine mods and stuff, it only got about 40. I ran the bike that way for about a year, then went back to completely stock setup and left it that way.

[@johnbendt678]

Nice review, as advertised. Do i wish for my drz400s back, no. Will I get another Vstrom 650, probably…but neither produced as many smiles per mile. As by my off-road skills have improved the DR 650 is the best compromise for my riding style.

[@user-so5ow5ms2g]

Great review. Its a just a great simple bike that everyone seems to like. I have a 2009 that is stock mechanically , added the usual seat, tank, bars and progressive front springs. I also put a Britannia composites front fairing on it - I use it as a light adv bike. It does everything I need it too. Had a 2012 KLR before, no comparison. My DR rides much better on both gravel and paved. Not sure why, but the more I ride it the more I like it. perfect for the foothills here in Alberta.

[@Speedytrip]

I know exactly what you mean 🤜🤛

[@pedrovillegas7833]

Guau, sorpreson de escuchar tus comentarios. Casi es verme reflejado en tus opiniones, hace un par de semanas compré la dr 650, aún estoy en el proceso de espera, la falta de tecnología fué lo que me inclinó a esta máquna. Abrazote desde la Patagonia Argentina.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for watching and enjoy the beast! :D

[@fmartel1967]

I own a 2019 DR that I bought new after I spent two years with an old 2001. It gives you an idea of how I like this bike. I also have a Vulcan 800, but the DR is the only bike I've owned that I plan to keep all my life. It's not called DR for nothing... it's my psychologist doctor! Great review ;)

[@Speedytrip]

Awesome and thanks for watching!

[@letssee5213]

Drove a Dr250 for almost a decade as a daily rider. Great bike with lovely handling. Rode a borrowed Dr650 for several months. It's a bit of a heffalump. Not a huge amount of extra power compared to a Dr250. Have had a DRZ for past 5-6 years and years ahead of the Dr650. Also owned a lot of other bikes with currently six in the stable.

[@ronsexton3685]

How would you compare the DRZ400 and the DR650? I am actually thinking of the DRZ400SM and putting rims and tires on it as it's shorter than the DRZ400S. But then, the DR650 is a pretty good height as it comes so it's tempting me.

[@machupikachu1085]

@@ronsexton3685 I ended up getting the sm and putting off road tires on the stock rims. It's a beast! That bike can handle more gnarly terrain than most riders, even in stock form. The only small caveat is finding a really aggressive front dirt tire for that 17" front rim. The Shinko 244, Motoz Tractionator GPS, or - if need be - an MT21 rear tire on the front works wonders. Cheers!

[@qwertyuiopLT]

hahahaha, nice set of features. I have a 1995 DR650RU that needs to be kickstarted, it doesn't even have that one feature you've mentioned. Love that thing

[@Speedytrip]

Now that's the real experience! I'm sure your shin has a lot of love/hate feelings for your DR hehe

[@benharper1682]

looking at a 2023 DR650. I had a DR400 back years ago and loved the single cylinder thumper sound. Hopeing to buy one soon.

[@zefini7397]

Eu tive uma DR650 por 5 anos que foi a melhor motocicleta entre as dezenas que já tive. Ultra leve, potente, um verdadeiro brinquedo de gente grande.

[@ProTobagganist]

Great Vid, i bought a 2002 DR-Z250 in 2021 with 737 km on it, its been a blast. People ask me about it all the time because it still has that iconic look but can't place it cause its mint. What a torque monster on the low end, so much fun with the mitas tires on it

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Its aging finely into this dystopian nightmare we are living in cybertrucks everywhere

[@ProTobagganist]

@@TheAnnoyingBoss ride safe, but have fun

[@zalmanfans1334]

Same with the old xr bikes they are super reliable with the exception of a valve adjustment every once while but I could send mine though the toughest stuff and she'd still start back up that bike never left me stranded !

[@trevorjameson3213]

Man you can't kill the old XR's! I had a '99 XR250R that I bought brand new and just sold it two years ago. In all those years, it never a problem of any kind, and the engine was never opened up except for valve adjustments. Really tough bikes those XR's were. But the DR650 is just as tough, I've owned two since '05 and again, never any problems at all.

[@trevorjameson3213]

You're the first person I've heard say the stock suspension is fine. I have always thought it was fine too! I've owned two DR650's, an '05 and my current '21. I ride almost entirely on fire roads and mountain trails in Colorado and the suspension has always been perfect for me. I weight 175lbs and 5'11". The bike is perfect. Handles the most intense trails I can find, and goes down the road like a street bike. Handling is good, on and off road. Brakes are good, gearbox ratios are good, power is excellent, and reliability is superb. Before I had DR650's, I had a '91 DR350, and it was also a great bike, just not nearly as much power and torque. But I only weighed about 140 back then.

[@Speedytrip]

Yeah a lot of people seem to enjoy harsh, uncomfortable suspensions, not me :)

[@PhilipEsdaile]

I bought a used banged up 91 for $200. Replaced bearings and greased the shock links. New fork oil, brake oil and engine oil. Cleaned the carb and new fuel filter. Don’t know how many miles are on it. I’ve ridden some difficult trails in Nevada, California. The engine never ever quits. Kick starts every time. Rode 250 miles with a broken frame after a horrific tumble. Couldn’t tell it was broken. I beat the rims back to round with a 5 lb hammer and wood blocks. I just completed a track day and checked CBR 600’s, Ducatis and BMW’s on a tight track. Engine just runs and runs. A year ago I decided to do some heavy maintenance so I checked the plug and discovered it had two plugs. The valve lash was good, so I changed the oil. It’s also self cleaning, so I’ve never had to clean it. I do lube things often. I’m a mechanic by day. It’s a dream to own a bike like this and do no mechanical work. (Wait, I take the mirrors and front fender off for track days) This was the best $200 I ever spent. I find myself kinda giggling when I pass $15k European bikes broken in the desert. I’m 130 lbs, 5’8” and pushing 69. I’m doing a wheelie class next as I need to wheelie my age in mph. It’s a stock bike, stock shocks but a $35 Chinese muffler…. Sometimes I pull away in 2nd, and sometimes in 3rd. The engine doesn’t seem to be bothered so I don’t even changing down… Suzuki have unbeatable engineering. The end.

[@Speedytrip]

Thats awesome! Thanks for watching :)

[@ΑναστάσιοςΠαπαζαχαρίου]

DR, KLR, XT, XRL you can't go wrong with any of these bikes they are meant to run forever

[@konstantinostselios1129]

The biggest advantage with the dr650 is its reliability and durability that no other bike has thanks to its simplicity and quality made materials that Suzuki uses I’ve been riding and racing since the mid 80s it can do everything on road and off road if i have to choose for a long run mixed terrain between a Africa twin and a dr I’ll choose the dr650 because I know I’ll never be stranded thanks for the video enjoy your bike

[@robleach9669]

Love my 2006 DR. Purchased with 16000km on it and now have 66000. Most mods done by previous owner. Ride with KTM 790, KLR , BMW GS, it keeps up on the highway (more or less) and is much easier to pick up when dropped. It's never let me down...fingers crossed. Parts, tires and accessories are inexpensive and readily available. Ride mostly gravel and undeveloped roads .

[@stephen8618]

I've owned 30 bikes. Now on my third dr650. And Africa Twin. Wonderful combination. Good review you made. My Seat Concepts was an excellent improvement.

[@Speedytrip]

Both great bikes for sure, thanks for watching! 🤛🤜

[@martycech5844]

Loved my DR650se. Always put a Big Smile on my face whenever I rode it. Sad the day I sold it… will buy another one in my near Future!

[@agro1942]

Great video mate, nice and honest. Plex valves seem to be a popular drop in for the DR650 forks.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks, appreciated! :)

[@drsous6400]

Love the mighty DR..I may have many bikes in my garage and many will come and go..but I'll never not have a DR650.

[@johnjaques342]

Coming up on 16,000 kms on mine - great review! Still planning to install stiffer springs and valving on forks though, but I am likely 20 lbs heavier than you

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks, post back to let us know what hou think of the spring upgrade :)

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I’m pretty good with the OEM setup so far. I might add a better bar, 50/50 tires, and a tank for better range as time goes on.

[@Speedytrip]

I don’t miss tanking every 180km…:)

[@gabrieltiso8537]

@@Speedytrip it's a shame the factory tank is so small as I would consider buying one for the great looks. My example came with the 5.3 acerbis and I definitely appreciate the range and off-road practicality though

[@Speedytrip]

Some actually prefer the look of the 5.3…I hesitated a lot before going with the bigger tank!

[@gabrieltiso8537]

@@Speedytrip fair point, it's certainly not bad. I guess I kinda like the relief of the shiny paint on an otherwise rugged tractor. That 2018 in white looks awesome BTW. Also I get questioned a lot about what it is because there's no obvious Suzuki branding anywhere on the bike unless you look at the side of the engine

[@ComfyDadShoes]

@@Speedytrip does the 6.6 tank give any wind protection on your lower torso?

[@BCBtrucks64]

better flowing exhaust or muffler , better flow air filter , bigger spark spark plugs and larger main jets x 2 sizes to start with will make for a more responsive engine and make better use of the fuel going in

[@jt100bonneville4]

Really good review of the DR. For the money they are hard to beat.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks and fully agreed! 🤜🤛

[@nelsondavis4310]

I have one and a 1st gen KLR 650 I like them both they are much closer in weight than the 2nd gen KLR which is more road oriented.

[@bradl29]

I have a dr650, and upgraded my suspension to cogents, The thing has turned into an absolute beast.

[@Speedytrip]

And do you find it as comfortable on rough paved roads as it was stock?

[@bensnipes7288]

Straight rate heavier springs and Intiminators in my forks, Cogent Mojave Pro on the rear of mine. Absolutely transformed the bike! No more wallowing in the front and Pogo in the rear. I'm 250 pounds and ride very hard and fast offroad. Best money I've spent on the DR! Road manners are perfect too

[@bradl29]

@@Speedytrip oh yes, it’s definitely worth the investment, completely transformed the bike. I got DDC and mojave pro rear shock. Bike is a lot more stable off road and does great on the twisties.

[@Speedytrip]

My friend has an upgraded DR and it rides great, but I still prefer the comfort of my stock suspension :)

[@bensnipes7288]

@@Speedytrip If it works for you than that is what matters! To me and my weight, the stock suspension was downright dangerous when riding hard...even on road. The pogo in the rear was just maddening to me and even showed up on road hitting large bumps. Offroad, the pogo was just dangerous with the inconsistent rear end traction. My cogent is stiffer......because its properly sprung for my weight where as the stock rear is sprung for someone around 100 pounds less than I. The important thing is that is properly valved. To me, the pogo was waaaaay more uncomfortable than a slightly stiffer rear. The rear is now how it should be for my weight and riding style. The $1200 was a lot to chew on, but the first ride proved to me that proper suspension for my weight and riding style is worth every penny and then some! If the stock works for you, than use the thing and dont look back! We all ride to have fun!

[@DavyRo]

I've been a Yamaha rider most of my life. But for all it's great looks & very decent reputation. I've always had something in me, that stops me from going for a tenere. It's probably my age now, I'm in my 50's & out of the 3 bomb proof 650's the KLR, XLR it's the DR that I've liked the look of the best. It's reputation & the all round package of reliability, durability, economy & the minor changes to make it even better just appeal to me more than the others. I've basically made my mind up to go for one for this coming summer. Unless something massive changes in my circumstances or the bike world that completely sways me. Thanks for a great simple review.

[@Speedytrip]

You're welcome :) I'm almost 50, and see where you're coming from. You'll find the DR very comfortable (once you upgrade the seat), super versatile and so easy to work on. My brother just bought a Tenere 700, so I'll probably get to review it this summer, but I don't see myself selling the DR anytime soon, I might buy a used Moto Guzzi V7 just to cruise around town :)

[@capaiz11]

hello thanks for sharing the experience, I just bought my used DR650 2020 since in my country Guatemala many of the most beautiful places are in offroad places and this motorcycle has been wonderful apart from that I am enjoying it, what if I changed it because necessary was the suspension, the chair and the brake and closh hoses and the light that is hard to see at night from there I am in love with my motorcycle

[@gabrielfierro1692]

¡¡¡Excelente vídeo!!! Gracias!!! ahora quiero más a mi Dr

[@Speedytrip]

Gracias! 😎

[@wild3676]

Thank you for providing a great video. Best I’ve seen so far. Have watched a lot of videos on the DR and XR trying to decide. This is the only video that has provided me with actual useful information.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for the kind words, really appreciated 🤜🤛

[@julioleduc5542]

I have multiple bikes from dirt bikes to big cruiser but by far my dr650 is the most fun to ride love my dr650

[@tommysiemienik7172]

I personally love the classic look that the DR650 holds including the tail lights, blinkers and so fourth... Brings me back to the original Daniel Laruso Karate Kid days... Add a few engine mods to perk it up and a few other parts and you are good to go while keeping the above listed items in place... Show stopper in my opinion... !!!

[@rupertsuzuki3376]

Good video, and a fair review. The DR is the Swiss Army Knife of motorcycles, it does everything and does it very well. At 220 though the suspension upgrades were well worth the expense, more so than many others - for me at least. 360 pounds is in the rear view mirror as well…after adding a bigger tank and a host of other add ones (luggage/armour/big tool kit/etc) with a full tank of gas mine is 410 pounds. Still lighter than almost any other options dry weight without any additions…so still a win for the DR. IMO for a solo rider who can only own one bike there is nothing even close to the DR, it is simply the best choice.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks!

[@tarjas]

Great and accurate description. This is the best value one bike out there (after spending a couple $K at ProCycle).

[@mirkokrasko1]

I used to have 2016 DR 650. That was my vehicle only for 3 years. Shine or rain. But i live in Florida so no big deal. Anyway, i think the stock bike (the carburetor, front and rear suspention, the muffler, air box and the seat ) totally suck. I replaced all of those in first week of owning the bike. Carburetor from Yamaha I thing it was YZ 450 quad, full size dirt bike suspention set up for my weight 250lbs, and of course the stock seat is terrible. That was replaced with wider seat, I don't remember what brand but i remember it was expensive. And these changes give the bike totally different live. But unfortunately for my protection due to Florida drivers i sold it and get a pick up truck. But I had a lats of fun with the bike. On road or off road...

[@canadiantriple2441]

Pretty much the same background as you.30 plus bikes over the years.I have had a 2017 Dr 650 in my garage for 5 years now.Others come & go but this bike is my best all round machine.

[@Marco-wf8kn]

Ho avuto un dr 600 s ed è stata la moto piu divertente che abbia mai guidato, sincero compagno di avventure ,semplice e onesto

[@bushpilot50]

I've owned 13 bikes...the DR is the best. I can ride from central New Brunswick Canada to Toronto Ontario Canada, about 12 hours in one day no problem. I use a cheap adjustable air bladder that I strap to the stock seat. It's perfect. You can simply move the pressure point with a little bum wiggle. Use it in my canoe too.

[@nathanstortz6808]

This is the most relatable comment on here as a fellow Canadian. Now I want to try and beat your record when I get my DR lol!

[@MaxwellBenson80]

I liked the included equipment section! I'm having a hard time deciding what bike to buy. It's between the drz400sm and the dr650. I'm 42 and out of the sport bike frame of mind. Thank you for sharing your experience with the dr650 , I appreciate your honesty!

[@Speedytrip]

You're welcome, glad you found it helpful :) People often consider both, I'm sure the DRZ400sm is loads of fun, if you don't do much highway, it's probably a very good option, I just like the DR650s versatility, with a few mods, you can pretty much make it anything you want from a supermoto to an adventure touring machine and everything in between :)

[@MaxwellBenson80]

@@Speedytrip my daily commute does include 17 miles of highway. Another reason to consider the 650 even more. Thanks for the reply!

[@kurthedgecock6313]

Great review! The dr and drz are two of the most fun bikes to ride!

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks, appreciated!

[@KeepItSimpleSailor]

Good basic bike. Great aftermarket parts options. The bush pig has done pretty much every landscape you can think of. It’s got legendary status. My only complaint was it’s not a bike that I enjoyed long highway miles on.

[@alexbare7181]

I’m about to get my old man’s early dr that has been well looked after. I’ll be following his maintenance routine as he’s been the guy to turn the wrenches on this bike since the day of purchase.

[@Speedytrip]

Thats awesome, nothing like getting a bike you know was well taken care of. Wishing you a 2023 filled with 2 wheel adventures!

[@matts2581]

Fresh reviews after passing through your Tenere reviews prior. :) TY for sharing. :)

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for watching! :) I just picked up a 100000mile 2008 kawasaki concours 14 yesterday, as a cheap touring bike, I have quite a few plans for it, will post about it soon :) (and Im still keeping the DR, its the longest Ive kept any bike).

[@ThatThrottle]

Great review! Thank you for taking the time to make and post this video!

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for stoping by and the kind words!

[@praveensamuel8375]

Great review! I’m buying one this December.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks, let us know what you think once youve tried it! :)

[@alharris1508]

Great review, thanks. Looking at a '06 DR650. Owned 2 gen 1 KLR's, 1 Gen 2 & '07 XT660R. Currently on a DR200SE..

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for the kind words! I find that prices dont drop much after a certain point. You might find a more recent one for not much more :) PS is DR is 10x more fun than the klr 😁

[@212driller]

The only thing I feel like they messed up is having the tall first gear. Otherwise it's a great bike

[@Speedytrip]

I have a 14t front sprocket it power wheelies quite easily now in first gear, and even in 2nd gear if I compress the forks :) Obviously downside is it revs a bit higher on the highway.

[@jeradbennett5030]

This is going to be my next bike for dual sport riding. I have an 09 KTM 530 exc, but I just wan something that's lower, simple and reliable. Great video.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for the comment and let us know how you like it! :)

[@OneOldManRiding]

Great overview! It's certainly a classic do it all bike. - Frank

[@MrEtnorb]

Those rear shots demonstrate how bad the suspension is. Right up there with the new CRF300 Honda pogo stick.

[@Speedytrip]

Keep in mind camera is on the swingarm and the gopros’ wide angle tends to flatten the terrain, at no point in that trail was I kicked off the seat or felt shocks through my back, which is something I couldnt say of the ohlins on my scrambler 1200xe. Are suspension perfect? No, but I can ride all day long in pretty much all terrain without fatigue…for me, thats what I was looking for :)

[@AnyMotoUSA]

Stand up, your legs are a part of the equation.

[@k0wabungah]

Yes Dr stock suspension sucks! I have a full modded Dr and can handle any trail and any bike 👌🏼

[@Speedytrip]

@@AnyMotoUSA Yep that works for the trail, not so much on the road for extended periods of times, and the roads here can be pretty rough at times (sadly sometimes worse than some trails…)

[@SailingCorina]

I too have had many bikes over 50 years and have been adventure riding on my DR650. It's one of the only bikes that has gotten so much respect from all riders. It's basic but people know it's capability of circumnavigating the world from many who've done it. Being an 80's/90's generation, I just can't stand the "bird beak" or front fender 2" off the wheel. It's a great dual sport for road and anything off road but of course it's not a dirt bike like my CRF450R which is a real off road racer that feels more like a bicycle with brute power. I did just put an FMF Q4 Muffler on the DR and will be doing the carb work. Mine won't bring the front wheel off the ground but my buddy's will throttle wheelie in 2nd gear after the mods.

[@Speedytrip]

Stock carb and exhaust on mine, air box is opened a bit, and I can power wheelie in 2nd gear if I compress the forks, but I also have a 14t front sprocket.

[@SailingCorina]

@@Speedytrip I think it's a 10 to 15 horse power increase which actually feels huge on the DR. I can't stand the throttle power delay and if the ProCycle carb kit doesn't help then I'll get a pumper carb that feels like nitrogen has been added and you have to hold on.

[@Speedytrip]

@@SailingCorina my friend has the pumper carb it’s good, but not sure its worth the price considering where you can get the stock carb at, also his throttle is quite stiff now compared to stock…

[@Andriig75]

@@SailingCorina I got the procycle kit and Fmf exhaust. Recently dynoed it. 43 Hp and 42 ft lbs @ the wheel Wheelies super easy. The throttle response is crisp right off the idle and the funny thing is my fuel efficiency went up. I regularly see 60 mpg, or 55 if I hammer on it. 👍👍👍

[@nicoradv3923]

I'm looking for another DR. Last one i had put 40,000 miles on. I did modify it, but for where i was going it just seemed like it needed. Carb re-jet, top of air box cut out, didn't do any about exhaust pipe of muffler. front springs replaced with stiffer, too much front end dive with the 6.6 gal tank i put on there. Next one i plan on doing the same thing and little more. Holding onto it till the end times. I don't think that after market parts are going to go away even since they will no longer be made.

[@Speedytrip]

For sure there's enough DR's out there to justify aftermarket companies to continue making parts long after Suzuki stop making them :)

[@tarjas]

Great review. I think many of the new riders who are looking at the 250cc (KLX/CRF) class bike should check out the DR650 as something they can grow into. I almost made the mistake of falling for the hype and buying a CRF 300 Rally. At 286cc/330+ lbs is has around half the horsepower, almost all the weight, and lots of plastic. I see the carb as a plus, very easy to adjust/rejet when making engine/exhaust mods. The simple EFI systems on the small bikes uses a MAP based on the stock config. Any changes require $$. The carbs just work. Long live the Bush Pig!

[@Speedytrip]

A friend of mine has a crf300L and its still great value for the price, but the only thing im really jealous oc is EFI. Carbs are easy to adjust but you can never let it completely alone when temperature or altitude fluctuates a lot.

[@tarjas]

@@Speedytrip EFI is nice in changing altitudes. what we really need is the Husky/KTM 501 platform with a lower strung long service interval motor. I’d pay for it!

[@Speedytrip]

@@tarjas and reliable hehe

[@clutchitup8565]

​@@tarjastoo bad ktm and husky quality control is shit now its a shame

[@GreaseAndGravel]

Great review, man! I want a DR650SE but they are super hard to find here in SA. Cheers

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks appreciated! I hope you do find yours :)

[@theflyingkiwi4803]

3:10 “ Here is the complete list of features on the DR” PRICELESS!!😂😂😂

[@ozziejim8472]

Gotta say valve and respring on the rear shock made a big difference!

[@cameronfrancis5331]

Trying to decide between a brand new RE Himalayan and a used DR650 as my first bike this winter. I'm a big guy (6'3", 280lb) and want a cheap pseudo adventure bike to figure out what style of riding I enjoy most for my daily commute and weekend fun... Just when I started leaning toward the value of a new RE, you've got me thinking the extra few bucks for a clean DR will be worth it... Thanks for the thorough review!

[@Speedytrip]

You can probably pick up a fully modded DR for the price of a new RE. At your size, you'll definitely want the taller seat, lower pegs, bar risers and probably stiffer springs as well (you could also find a DR that is already setup that way). I haven't tried the RE yet, cool concept, and "itchie boots" has made it famous by traveling around the world on it. Happy shopping and thanks for watching! :)

[@jasonmcmanus6169]

I would go for the Dr also more available parts!

[@zach4925]

I got a dr650 for my first bike i months ago. it's awesome i love it I've done a bunch of stuff to it.

[@peterbojkov4669]

Excellent overview! Couldn’t agree more about the stock suspension- yes, it is soft, but at the same time it’s super comfy and does an ok job for light off-road duty. Although I have a newer, more modern bike, I keep going back to my DR as my daily ride. There’s just something really fun about the low RPM engine grunt, the nimble handling and the old school looks. I like this bike so much, that I paid a truckload to have her shipped from the states to EU, where by the way the DR is not sold and therefore not street legal - went through hell to have her registered😅 For serious enduro, a Yamaha WR is my weapon of choice - there is really no point in trying to mod the DR into something that it isn’t, for everything else DR all the way!!!

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks and yes this is a keeper! 🤜🤛

[@BS-li9gm]

Best bike you can buy for the money. Gives me confidence when I am out riding alone it's not going to break down unlike my husky 701

[@Speedytrip]

I rented a husky 701 twice in colorado, it was amazing ride but the 2nd time it overheated the minute I was in a bit of traffic. If the 701 was made by yamaha I would consider selling the DR to buy one, but the DR is so simple, reliable, easy to work on and most importantly it still puts a smile on my face after 3 years :)

[@BS-li9gm]

Once I put a new exhaust on the husky I don't have issues with it overheating anymore. Had to also get rid of the traction control and ABS.

[@brymanable]

Second to none hands down the Suzuki DR605 Best dual sport bike Ever! 👍🏼

[@Speedytrip]

Agreed, thanks for watching!

[@waterhouse235]

Great review, no complaints about the Dr you like it for what it is, most people just point out the bad points, but you just tell it as it is 👍 it's a shame they are not as common in the UK.

[@prajnaseek]

Perfect for my coming tour from Canada to Mexico!

[@jimmywax3669]

Great review, really helpful info. I’m a learner looking at dual sport as next step after having done 7k over a year on a cbf125cc all weathers mostly on road with some camping. Some good 650s out there and cheaper 250s although reviews say a bit underpowered/over weight when loaded.

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks and yes I don’t think you can go wrong with the DR is a nice balance between weight and power.

[@lajansere.6278]

I just bought my third DR650SE. I was going for a Yamaha tenere 700 but I love the DR so much better. I don't know why.

[@Speedytrip]

It’s nearly 100lbs less for one :)