XR650 vs DR650 In-depth New Owner Comparison + KLR650 Comparisons

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Correction @ 9:00 - The XR, DR, & KLR all have 5 speeds, but the DR & XR* both have a much taller 5th gear than the KLR. Meaning the DR & XR are smoother and more capable at highway speeds.

[@donniebaker5984]

Some day you learn that is much easier to take an XR650R and make it street legal than it will ever be to do what you did by taking an XR650L that's already more than street legal and then make it handle off road as good as an off road bike does naturally .. Especially someone like you who has access to everything to do it with... And probably off the top of your head can name more things and more places than I can doing research to make the necessary mod. In other words I would say in a race to build the best you could win with your knowledge and experience of the subjects because that's what you do.... But I can tell you this the ultimate XR600R of a 1996 model overall is the best Bare Bones racer to put a license plate on first of all it's Bare Bones weight dry is 260 lb that's thing you call an extra l is well over 300 closer to 400 lb I rest my case

[@Stickbow1980]

Ehh I have to disagree I can ride my klr 650 at 75mph for a 50-60 mile trip with zero issues I ride my buddies xr like that on the highway and the more motocross style sitting position is crippling and the vibration in the bars at those speeds literally had my hands cramping up within a half an hour... Those klr's are just crazy comfortable and vibrate less when on the freeway in my opinion.

[@slalomking]

I agree with matthunter, the KLR is the best street ride of these three.

[@carlcrasmussen]

But when a bike is that heavy why even have a dual sport ​@@Stickbow1980

[@adv_moto_dan948]

I have a 2018 DR.... 32,000miles. Several trips across country, several BDR's, several states of the TAT. It has NEVER left me stranded. I'd get on it and do it all again without worry. Very reliable bike! I think a good comparison of those bikes are...... XR=60/40 dirt to street..... DR=60/40 street to dirt. Having ridden both bikes fully upgraded..... The DR is by far the better all around bike. I wish that you could ride mine and see the difference between a stock DR and a built DR.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! Yeah, as much as I like the XR, I'd definitely agree that the DR makes way more sense and probably requires less to do way more.

[@davidpaduano753]

Sounds To me like the main issue with the XR is the height, everything else is better. Can't wait to see what happens when you lower it. I'm definitely in the market. I currently have a Pan-America, but the thing is just too heavy to off-road. Looking for something lighter.

[@crypticreality8484]

​@@davidpaduano753the DR-Z 400 is a badass bike

[@davidpaduano753]

@@crypticreality8484 funny you should mention that because that's what I bought. I got it with the 3x3, jetting and exhaust already done with less than 500 mi for $4,500. Since then I've added handlebars, risers, headlight, front fender, crash plate, 3.9g tank, back rack, pegs and tires. Certainly looks badass.

[@davidl546]

The Best comparison video I've seen in years! You cover some really good points between the two bikes without any loud music drowning you out.

[@tomhengel7244]

Glad to see I'm not the only one that doesn't enjoy the music in a lot of these videos

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!! I'm pretty happy with how it turned out as well. It was probably the most fun video I've filmed in a while as well!

[@michiganmoto7687]

Couldn’t agree more! If I want music videos I search for those but motorcycle videos shouldn’t be filled with music. I like the sound of the bike, the hum of the tires, the crunch of gravel and other ambient sounds even if the creator isn’t talking. But if they have a bad mic setup that records nothing but wind noise, forget it, I won’t even watch it.

[@stickrudder4332]

Just purchased a new DR. Very happy with it.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Glad to hear that, and not at all surprised!

[@eugenebarron692]

I just purchased a 2024 DR I’m happy with it I’m 57 and well over 300lbs I haven’t had off road bike since my teens, I’ve had several street bikes trying my luck with the duel sports my wife’s not real excited about my decision lol, can’t wait for my concept seat to deliver good comparison video these videos helped me to make my decision.

[@alisemlali1944]

Are the New models still have the neutral sending issue (Bolt needs to be loctited)?

[@stickrudder4332]

Heard it was fixed ​@@alisemlali1944

[@jonpeters5194]

where the DR really excels is in urban environments. It is a great city bike for rough roads, oil cooler for slow speed traffic, handles very well and great visibility being slightly tall.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

100%. The DR would be much more fun in the city, and is definitely better on gravel!

[@andrewdunlop9930]

This is true. I commute with mine and it's great in city traffic and the short stretches of highway I do.

[@NoName-c4y7h]

I watched the ads, in gratitude for all your hard work.

[@jabawocki9462]

Was about to google the specs of the XR650, and then you had it right there on screen, much appreciated.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

😉 gotcha covered!

[@Eric-Red]

I have the DR650, lots of mods and I really think it can do anything but enduro/hard off road. In my 50's, I think it's be best all around bike you can get.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'd agree with that!

[@robbieandbeckie]

Yes, except maybe a Gen1 KLR. I have both and love both.

[@colinwiddis8530]

Ive owned a 98 XT 350...KLR 650...WR250R...T700...KLX300, and now having done a BDR and 12,000 kms on my DR 650, i feel its got the most power, yet easy to ride thing going ,out of the bunch. I love the simplicity. I feel its probably the most bullet proof. But they really are all amazing bikes.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'd, agree. DR is pretty hard to beat!

[@ArcticJeff]

I really like the 'pop up video' style of this one, Swanky. I hope you incorporate this again on future videos. Tip: I'm sure most folks watch your video's on computers or devices, but if viewed on a TV, the pop-ups can get cut off along the bottom or at the sides due to the overlapping that happens on TV's. They just need to be placed a tad higher and not quite as wide with some of the longer pop-ups. I think you like that XR so much because you are a true dirt-biker at heart.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

A little VH1 through back for ya! Haha. I got started adding a few notes and then couldn't stop! I really like the way it turned out too and I'll definitely do it more often. Works out well since I usually forget important bits of info while riding too lol. I'll definitely make sure they're more reliable on all screens next time though, I appreciate the info!!!

[@pfcokelly]

Where was this video two years ago when i was going back and forth between the two. Great comparison!!!, love my XR and can't wait to see your video on lowering it. 2 years in and I still get uncontrolable laughter on it.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Ha ha oh no! Sorry man! Sounds like your enjoying your XR just as much as I do though 🤣. She's a real beast!!! I kinda can't wait to lower it now!

[@1wheeldrive751]

Really easy to lower the XR. Just put a kouba link on the rear and raise the forks up on the front. I’m 6’2”, so no need to lower it, but mine came used with the kouba.

[@philcadorette1383]

don't lower it, learn to ride a tall bike and all will be fine. Yes it takes effort in time but anytime you learn more skills as a ride it's a win/win situation. Good luck

[@dennismartin1783]

Love my DR. Taken mine some crazy places off road. Takes it all as long as you can! Both are awesome bikes!

[@dennismccullough638]

I think I’d be leaning dr for sure, for me it’s all about overall practicality. Kind of like a one bike to rule them all. Commuter, gravel, highway, single track. What will do them most in the best ways for the right money.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

100% agree with that, the XR is AWESOME, but not nearly as practical and well rounded as the DR. Makes more sense as a dual sport/ADV bike too since they're a little less high maintenance.

[@swamp033127]

Less high maintenance?🤣🤣🤣 literally the only maintenance I have done on my xr is changing oil and tires.

[@crypticreality8484]

Yea. The bike if you can only afford or have room for one. That's what it is for me and I chose a Suzuki DR-Z 400.

[@CliffdropChad]

​@@crypticreality8484 How much difference is there in powerband and gearing overall for riding 50/50 compared to DR650?

[@Hanky_Bannist8r]

I have a slightly modded 1994 Xr650L with 12k miles on it. I don't think they've changed alot through the years. Once you "de-smog" them and rejet they're a different machine entirely. I'm 6'1 165 I definitely prefer the taller bike. It all comes down to preference and purpose I think both bikes are great but need upgrades and changes to make them personal. I'm really enjoying this comparison.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm glad to hear that! Thanks! Yep I believe they are about the same, and I cannot wait to do a few mods to get some of its originally designed "snap" back!

[@mikerichards3248]

Great video! Hope you keep both bikes and keep showing us your experience with them. At the end of the vid with the bikes parked nose to nose, the visual difference was really striking. I want to ride them both!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks Mike!!! Haha yeah for some reason seeing them on camera like that helps me focus on their individual differences as well. Maybe it's just that slightly lower than eye level vantage point? Shows off their curves a little better maybe? IDK! It sure is fun running them side by side like this! Really glad to hear you're enjoying it as well!

[@colinwiddis8530]

Currently loving my DR. Have always been interested in the XR. So great to see all the differences. I think the conclusion for me is whatever you end up on, you're going to very happy. Two legendary machines.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Yes, 100%. As different as they are, they both also have a lot in common, and that's all the stuff that makes them so versatile and awesome!

[@tomhengel7244]

Great video just got the dr last night after watching a ton of videos on all kinda bikes of this sort and think I'll enjoy it for the type of riding I'll be doing.. with all the doom and gloom in this world this will be my escape.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! I've always loved dual sports for that. Everything is much more peaceful in the woods!

[@bwnco]

Do a follow up as im flipping coins on which also. Also watched hours! of videos. Im not that experienced either so let us know what you think on the DR

[@TerraPruett]

I'm old now but my last off road dirt digger was a 1978 Yamaha TT500 four stroke single. No frills and not street legal. Magneto only, no battery. I did put trials lights on it but no turn signals or brake light. When the engine quit, so did the lights. I bought it used in 1980 for $500.00. passed it down to both my sons who started out on small off-road only dirt bikes and worked their way up. I told my youngest son when he was in the 7th. grade when he got strong enough to kick start that 500 (It had a compression release) he could ride it. While camping in the woods one day my wife and I, sitting in the camp trailer, and I heard the 500 come to life. I looked out and there was Adam sitting on that Yamaha with his riding boots and helmet on with a grin a mile wide. He could hardly touch his feet to the ground. I knew at that point I lost my big thumper. It was now his.

[@majorlee1]

I have a DR650. I ride with guys that have XR650s. They definitely are not as comfortable as I am on the highway. The DR 75mph all day. With stiffer springs and the carb re jetted going off road I have no issues. The XR is better in dirt and has a bit more dirt oriented power but the DR is more of an all around machine. 👍😎ride on!

[@kikiJones-in9gs]

Cool vid ! Thanks man ❤ I bought my Dr 650 new at the dealership here in Durango, Mexico ! Very nice motorcycle ❤

[@scottk.8494]

I have Carmichael bend bars on my DR and XT250. I real like the feeling of that bend on and off road. I also recommend lowered and solid mount pegs on the DR. They're comfortable on the knees, and the feel of shifting improved since the left peg isn't absorbing some off the energy put into shifting. I don't feel anymore vibration with the solid pegs. I installed Zeta solid mounts for my handlebars and that was an improvement also.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Lots of good mod suggestions there, thank you! I felt the same way about the floppy pegs on my KLR, seems like all they do is allow them to move around 🤣

[@matthewfrost1657]

I have a 2018 XR, bought new, and it made it 27k miles in three years when it dropped an exhaust valve seat. It hasn't been a priority, so I'm still rebuilding the top end, but had so much fun on it. Did some 350 mile days on the stock seat and lived, haha. Camped off of it a lot, and did singletrack.

[@spacetruckin6555]

2018 DRZ bought new, 35,000 miles on the clock. I've got the top end off of mine too. One day the bike wouldn't start, and a compression test showed 60PSI. The second compression ring was stuck in the groove on the piston and the exhaust valve guides are wore out of spec. Know any good cylinder head people?

[@matthewfrost1657]

@@spacetruckin6555 I bought a new head with the valves installed from crfsonly. There was pitting on the original head, as well as the cam shaft lobes. It was pretty close in cost just to have them assemble new vs rebuilding the original head. Just need to order the cam and put it all together now.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Awesome data point, thank you!!!! Did you have an oil cooler? How often do you change oil? Thank you!!!

[@matthewfrost1657]

@@SwankyCatProductions 2018 Honda XR650L bought 5/9/2020, new in crate. 5/16/20 tusk pannier rack and top rack 5/17/20 wider front sprocket & ricochet skid plate 5/22/20 513 miles, oil & filter, cleaned screen, Honda filter & Pro Honda HP4 10w-40 oil 5/24/20 653 miles adjust valves, all a few thou loose, adjusted to intake 0.004 and exhaust 0.005, installed Clarke 4.7 gal tank 5/31/20 903 miles, UFX front fender 6/29/20 1,924 miles, oil change (same Honda oil from here on our) 6/30/20 1,924 miles, rear tire, Bridgestone trail wing 302 7/9/20 2,719 miles, Oxford heated grips, acerbis hand guards 7/18/20 3,168 miles, JNS engineering LED headlight 7/24/20 3,501 miles, oil & filter 7/27/20 3,659 miles, valves, all about 0.001 loose, adjusted, new rear tire D606 8/19/20 5,000 miles, oil 9/19/20 6,000 miles, front tire, Bridgestone trail wing 10/11/20 6,500 miles, oil & filter 12/29/20 7,791 miles, sprockets & chain, RK520exw-ring 1/1/21 7,811 miles, NGK DPR8EIX-9 spark plug, valves, intake and exhaust were loose 0.001 on right side, oil, new air filter OEM Honda 3/21/21 8,503 miles, tusk D sport adventure rear tire 4/25/21 9,126 miles, cleaned spark arrestor 5/18/21 9,616 miles, oil & filter 7/2/21 10,217 miles, tusk D sport adventure front tire 7/30/21 10,947 miles, oil 9/26/21 12,440 miles, oil & filter, valves left in and ex loose 0.001 10/31/21 13,441 miles, tusk D sport adventure rear 12/4/21 14,169 miles, oil & filter 12/20/21 14,588 miles, pirelli MT21 rallycross front 12/30/21 14,721 miles, air filter Honda OEM, small tail light conversion 2/5/22 15,522 miles, oil 2/25/22 15,931 miles, valves all tight 0.001, spark plug NGK DPR8EIX-9 3/20/22 16,619 miles, chain & sprockets RK520exw-ring, fritzco max spline contact, rear JT steel 3/23/22 16,716 miles, rear brake pads EBC 3/27/22 16,927 miles, oil & filter, front brake pads EBC 5/29/22 18,488 miles, oil 6/4/22 18,738 miles, D606 rear, tried 130 width, Pirelli MT21 front, swapped front wheel from last XR because front wheel bearings had some grit 6/24/22 19,290 miles, rear tail light bulb 6/27/2022 19,395 miles, oil & filter, valves intake both 0.001 loose 7/13/22 20,606 miles, oil & filter, air filter Honda OEM 7/27/22 21,026 miles, new front wheel bearings for original wheel and seals 8/19/22 22,019 miles, oil & filter, cleaned screen 9/30/22 23,572 miles, oil and filter, Denali auxiliary lights 10/8/22 23,810 miles, valves right exhaust tight 0.001 10/10/22 23,869 miles, chain & sprockets same 1/17/23 24,759 miles, pirelli MT21 back on original front wheel 1/29/23 25,016 miles, oil & filter 2/12/23 25,084 miles, D606 on previous XR rear wheel 5/6/23 26,517 miles, oil & filter, spark plug NGK DPR8EIX-9 5/19/23 27,000 miles....loud ticking noise coming from the top end, dropped valve seat.

[@spacetruckin6555]

@@matthewfrost1657 WOW. You"re like my brother, he keeps meticulous notes on his old Pontiacs like that too.

[@nseric1233]

I've always been a honda guy but at 5'8" I chose the dr650. With a bunch of mods the dr650 is just plain fun. It's hard to keep the front tire on the ground in first gear with a 14 tooth sprocket and jet kit, I'd do those mods asap. After you lower the xr, it's no better off road than the dr and not as good on the road with no cush drive or oil cooler. The rest of the mods I end up doing are the same on both bikes. Bars, pegs, guards, gearing, tires, jetting, I end up doing suspension work on everything because im heavy.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! Yeah, even at my height the XR is a stretch, LITERALLY! I'm pretty excited to see how the DR does with a few free mods and a 14 tooth! I'll bet you right about the XR being lowered too. It's a really cool bike, but the DR is much more practical and better set up to be an adv bike!

[@toomanytoys09]

Sold my 2019 DR & bought a new leftover "23" XR this year..I go back & forth with lowering it, but ultimately probably wil,l just to make it that much easier to climb on to..Only mods so far are a rack, some Nelson Rigg bags & a handlebar bag to carry some things..Will probably do the foot pegs & front sprocket upgrade real soon, but otherwise just lovin the bike & look forward to putting some miles on it..Nice comparison review..Thanks!

[@tbone0785]

which one do you like more and why? Why'd you move to the XR?

[@andrewdunlop9930]

The DR vibration you mention is a funny thing. I find it comes and goes in different conditions on different days. I think temperature may be part of it. But usually it's pretty minimal.

[@DriftlessMoto]

The vibes from the DR are nothing compared to my DRZ. I going to ask my dentist to make me a mouth guard, so my teeth wont rattle out riding the DRZ 🤣

[@MotorcyclesOffroad]

I definitely need to get me an XR650L, I must also ride them back to back. I would have guessed you would have liked the XR more offload, it seems to be more of a big dirtbike. Also with your experience on those 450lb motorcycles would make the XR feel like a dream. I feel like the DR is more of a universal adventure bike, also its much more approachable for many people with the low seat setting.

[@justinstiff5641]

I'm literally going to look at these two bikes this morning

[@SwankyCatProductions]

No way! Let me know what you think of them!

[@justinstiff5641]

I'm 6'3 and 300lbs so pretty sure the obvious choice already will be the XR

[@cinnreds18]

Dr all the way, if you’re looking for a bike you can live off while riding the BDR (somewhere) light to medium trail work. The engine on the dr runs cooler and “dare I say” form all available evidence lasts longer.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

As much as I like the XR, I don't doubt any of that one bit!

[@leescheeler1503]

The Xr 600 r is my favorite Xr ever I've got a 92; with 2016 Yamaha yz forks and an aftermarket monoshock with new rims and disc brakes front and rear it's got a big bore kit and a mikuni flat slide catb it walk all over both of those bikes and is lighter too its my favorite bike I've ever owned by far

[@johnhigginbotham8317]

I only have experience on my XR 650. Love it. She’s tall. Got mine new this year and have noticed the suspension has kinda worn in. Sits just a bit lower than when brand new. Only about 400 miles mostly rough forestry roads rock to rock rut to rut.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! Yeah it's definitely tall, but sure is fun!

[@packracer515]

You may think of using a GPS for your speed runs. I have a 23 DR650 and have found the GPS shows about a 6-7 mph difference on the slower side than the speedo shows. I was actually running around 53 mph while the bike showed 60 mph.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Is it that far off??? My gen3 KLR was too, until I put a slightly taller rear wheel on it (speed sensor was in the transmission). I'll definitely put some navigation on asap!

[@packracer515]

@@SwankyCatProductions Sadly it was that far off. I've heard as much as 10% difference, which I believe after running the test between the speedo and the GPS on my highway ride home from work. Always wondered why the speedo would say 80 and I was just pacing the traffic and not blowing by them when in reality I was doing between 72-73 mph.

[@josephstuhlreyer7972]

My 2024 Suzuki DRZ 400 speedometer reads 3 mph faster than actual speed. Thinking of trading for a new Honda XR650 or CRF 450 or new BMW 450.

[@insatiable_mind]

I look forward the revisit after mods. Lowering the XR is cheap and easily reversible if you don’t like it. I’m curious which you would like better with a lowered XR and upgraded suspension on the DR. I’m still a DR fan but I could be turned.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I can't wait to do that test again after the mods!!! Should be pretty interesting!

[@joellikness2121]

I'm honestly a little surprised at how much better you liked the XR. I figured it would be DR bandwagon all the way. I'm still thinking the bike for me is a DR650 with some suspension mods. I'm "learning" dirt on my DR350, and have been leaning towards a light adv build for it, but the more I see your DR650 vids, the more I think I just need to sell this DR350, get a DR650, and it'll do everything I want it to.

[@MinhVu-in9iz]

Get the dr650, it can do everything!!

[@MinhVu-in9iz]

@@joellikness2121 I like the xr650, but I’ll have to lower the seat a few inches, 37” is too high for me!! 34 is comfortable!!

[@ar1stippus739]

I will probably never give up my gen 1 klr I've got it set up almost perfectly with 12 inches of ground clearance now but man, the more I see you tearing it up on the Xr650 the more I want to buy one

[@insatiable_mind]

Excellent video brother! I love where you’re taking this channel.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!!

[@chiptaxfree]

Cogent suspension, foot pegs, and handlebars will make that a completely new bike. My buddy had one and I thought it was fantastic after the suspension was done.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'll bet! I can't wait!!!

[@chiptaxfree]

I've been looking forward to this.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Me too!

[@jmfaria450]

Full exhaust and Dave's mods on the XR and it'll be a whole new beast. Also weight saving mods are significant on the XR.

[@l1qu1dm3t4lIV]

You mentioned, you don't know who would be ripping around on a big thumper. Well, there's a guy in Australia that absolutely rips on his near-stock DR650; he's called Skids n Stuff here on KZbin and his riding on that behemoth can be inspirational, check it out sometime if you ever get down time.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Will do! I'm hoping I can test the limits of mine on some gnarly stuff this summer as well. Should be a good time, I think these bikes are much more capable than a lot of people think!

[@michiganmoto7687]

I love that guys channel. The way he throws his DR over huge logs like it’s a mountain bike makes me feel incredibly inferior 😂😂😂 But it’s a great example of what these bikes are capable of in the right hands. Makes me plenty confident it will do and go anywhere I would ever take it. ✌️

[@dantrimble2495]

Thanks for the gravel comparison. That is mostly what I ride my Klx 300 on. Thinking of getting a 650.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Gravel road cruising is pretty hard to beat! Definitely a nice escape from the busy city streets. I'm pretty excited to try a KLX300 actually! I'd be interested to see how it compares to the DR and XR for that matter!

[@dantrimble2495]

I am no expert but any means. Had the 22 klx300 for a couple years. It is great on gravel. Can pretty much ride it as hard as you want. I did turn the clickers to soften the front forks from the factory setting. Seems to like that softer setup on the grave.

[@colinwiddis8530]

I also loved my KLX 300 it was so easy to ride...perfect seat hight. But the DR just has it beat on highway, with its power. I think you'll Love the DR if you love the KLX

[@bradh74]

I appreciate the comparison video, I believe you did a good job at giving people the info they need to make an informed choice when buying one of these bikes. Thanks for the specs, HP and Torque . The DR still stands out for the bike a guy buys to putt around on the weekend and last for a long time, it's a practical choice, with lower maintainace costs and easy upgrades. The XR has been the more off road capable but for some reason Aussies still chose the DR650. Not sure if you've ridden the DRZ400 but many say it's basically in the same category but more off road capable and nimble. Great video!

[@theempowermentproject3636]

Put 10k mi on an XT250 before buying my first DR 4 months ago (already put on 2500 mi, having taken a few weeks off for a broken wrist) 😅. The perfect bike for full time life on the road. Yesterday I cruized into town with the trunk box to grab groceries. Today I ripped 40 miles through CO mountain pass dirt/gravel roads. Mikuni carb and slip on exhaust make a big difference from stock. Love the DR. Haven't had the chance to ride an XR yet. Great video, thanks 👍

[@gregweeks4980]

Good job on the review of the DR and the XR. Me, I have a 34 inch inseam and the XR still feels tippy... Turning around. You are correct about the DR stability on dirt and gravel roads, it's strangely amazing. But when the going gets really tough, the XR shines brighter and brighter. I am comfortable taking the XR anywhere I'd take one of my dirt bikes. The DR needs to be geared down and suspension tuned. My DR has the lowered pegs, different handlebars and handlebar risers. I put the warp 9 levers in the clutch and brake position. No more Lucy goosey lovers. You might check this fact because I'm not really sure, but it seems like the XR has less front fork rake than the DR. At least that's how it feels to me. The XR is precise in the trees and sketchy in the gravel. The DR is less precise in the trees and more stable in the gravel. THEY ARE BOTH GREAT FUN! Pick your bike and ride accordingly. Or pick your route and ride the correct bike. I like both of those bikes so much that I have multiples. One XR is stock and the other one is geared lower and suspension mods and power up mods. Not the best for Street riding. I truly enjoy you having both of these bikes and giving them a fair shot and testing them side-by-side... Awesome "Texas on the prairie" with a big grin

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I can definitely see the XR being much better when the going gets rough. Interesting that it's nervous on gravel, but I suppose when you're built for hard woods riding, you don't care about country roads! I believe you are correct about the rake on the forks, the XR has a degree or 2 less angle from what I remember. That angel and the resulting "trail" measurement, are partially why the two behaved so differently both on an off road. That's awesome you've got multiple set ups!!! I'll bet that's cool to see the differences!

[@DriftlessMoto]

I've ridden both bikes and heres some movie references that sum up the XR and DR in my opinion. The XR is like Roddy Piper in They Live. Its here to Kick ass and chew bubble gum and its all out of bubble gum. The DR is the motorcycle version of "The Dude" from Big Lebowski. The DRs motto is "The Dude abides".

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Very well said!!!

[@retiredwaterdoctor]

So many bikes...so little time....will be interesting watching the mods. I wish the Honda was still available in Canada. Garth

[@GlorifyGodInEverything]

"Xr's only" sells plates to delete your smog equipment for the L, makes the bike a lot more responsive (smog equipment is because of california regulations). Taking the baffle out of the exhaust helps a bit as well (regulations forces factory to put little welds on it). You just have to grind through the 2 little welded spots which takes 2 seconds, then your exhaust will be the way it was originally set up, hints the 2 bolts holding the baffle in. It also makes your bike sound like a dirt bike instead of some slave state bike. I believe the "spark arrestor" is built into the center of the muffler, not the baffle and I believe it's the same exhaust type that the xr600r uses. Also dyno jet makes a good stage 1 kit for the carb, this kit also allows you to remove the plug that blocks your mixture screw, which this is another slave state regulation. The xr650L is chained down and choked from factory, when the bike was originally created, it was setup without these restrictions during the build process, and it was built using the xr600r as a performance reference the entire way through. Almost no point in having the 650L unless you put the bike back into its original state of performance it was designed for in my opinion. After these simple fixes, the bike is absolutely awesome. No real work around for the CV carb though lol... Uses vacuum to lift the slider so there will always be a slight delay in throttle response unfortunately until you swap the carb.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Wow, lots of great info there. Thank you!!! I'll definitely look into doing all that at some point, I think I need to see if I can get the DR to have the same amount of take off power first, but after that... I'll bet the XR will be even more of a riot!!!

[@GlorifyGodInEverything]

@@SwankyCatProductions haha that's awesome. Yea man I love your channel. Super cool to watch, i'm glad someone is doing some vlog stuff on these super cool bikes. Keep up the good work man!

[@1wheeldrive751]

Ditch the stock XR muffler (boat anchor) and pick up a Lexx can. Got mine for about $200 at RMATV. It comes with a spark arresting dB killer that makes it just a little louder than stock, with much better flow. You can also get a quieter dB killer that brings it down to stock level, but the can is much lighter either way. Also, take off the stock header and use a dremel to grind down the welds on the inside of the head flanges to the same ID as the pipe. Do the “Dave Mods” to the stock carb, and put a foam air filter in it. You are going to love the increased power.

[@Not_Sure-2020]

I've seen this on the web too. @7:15, you say the XR has 40 horses. @2:12 however, you showed it having 34 horses.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Yeah, 40ish is what Honda claims "at the crank" meaning the drive sprocket. Whereas the 34hp, is something that's actually been measured by a separate entity, at the rear wheel, on a Dynamometer, or "Dyno".

[@RobertSnuffer]

XR should be lowered to same as DR. Suspension upgrade required but not too firm. Increase tank capacity. XR will be difficult to compare afterwards. Great Video. Very resourceful. Looking forward to next videos.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!!

[@stephanematis]

My purchase of a well priced 2013 DR fell through today, and now I might first grab a BMW G650 because of circumstances, but I want a DR 650 for long term. I like lighter bikes, like old school dirt bikes, which seems to have become a positive trend among riders of these mid/low-mid do-it-all motorbikes. What always surprises me the most of a "well balanced" motorbike is when I am not reaching for another gear. Love my TW200, but often I'm wanting to shift to 6th that doesn't exist. In the end, riding by sound and vibration alone, is how I grew up and wish I could enable with these larger 50/50-ish bikes. Maybe that is a pipe-dream.

[@dukegnarley]

I've ridden and modified a DR extensively. Give it an aftermarket muffler to save some weight and open up the air box. Upgrade the suspension, and drop the front sprocket 1 tooth. Replace the handlebars with something closer to a woods bend, lower the pegs. After that it's a great bike. The size of the bike makes it very manageable and easy to live with. Very reliable. It will take you anywhere, but you will sometimes be searching for that non-existent 6th gear.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I've got the bars now, definitely an improvement! Pegs will be next and then eventually performance mods! Probably going to do a fork upgrade at some point too and definitely going to test out a 14 tooth!

[@evr-mr3cp]

Cheaper to push a cush drive hub on the xr than make the dr suspension work as well as the xr

[@davidruggles996]

Nice work Ben. I am very excited to see where you go with this series!... And I ride a damn Victory Vision 😂😂😂

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Haha, hey man any bike is a good bike if you can ride it! Glad to hear you're enjoying the videos!!!

[@keepitroosting]

I recently bought a 2024 dr650, I already have suspension, exhaust, carb work and just a lot of little details done on it. I may be biased but once the suspension is set and bike is uncorked it is an absolute blast. I am setting mine up as an aggressive adv bike, so I have the big 6.6-gal tank on it and suspension is set up for the additional weight of that and luggage. I rip it offroad and it takes it. If you need ideas on what to do to your dr I can give you the full list.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

NICE! I just swapped my front sprocket out and tightened up my cush drive with some rubber shims and it certainly feels much more aggressive now! I'm pretty excited to see what some new springs and mild air intake and exhaust mods will do!

[@VivamusLibero]

Can you give me that list please

[@2wheels.are.better.than4]

Owned a gen 1, 2005 KLR. It was completely stock, even the doohickey. Put 40k miles on and never had a problem. That being said, prior to this video, I would lean toward the DR, now I’m not so sure. A big plus of the XR, in addition to what you said, is the 18” rear wheel.

[@Seeker887]

Had an 02 dr, same time as my 94 xr . Both 650’s . Both great, son inherited dr I’m still enjoying my xr .

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice, that's awesome!!!

[@Michael-qo8bs]

You had a typo in sub text....said dr650 wheelbase 48.7...actually 58.7 And for a given wheelbase a lower center of mass will make wheelies tougher... But it a good trade...generally lower is better for performance riding.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Ahhh man! Haha thanks for catching that! Yes that seems to be that case!

[@FrankValiente-ng4mk]

honda always, got 2 xr250 and 1 xr650, these ladies allways run, easy to maintain, my harley is more fun in the mechanical department, thy always have an isue. my hondays just sit there, sip a little oil here and there, you ride them, never complain. we ❤ love our xr

[@dvg548]

If you can lower the Rhonda's suspension. I think your allset. Better suspension for trails and lower on hiway. In terms of wind and road confidence

[@Nine_883]

Nice job on the video. The DR sounds better for my purposes. I appreciate the info. I looked at and sat on a XR. In the shop I could barely touch the floor. I didn’t ride it. I am more street than dirt. I just go up trails and fire roads. I like the DRZ as well. I had a CRF300 and it was short on power and not very good for much. It was fun cruising the city streets like a scooter, but it’s a very weak motorcycle.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Sounds like the DR will suit you very well! Let me know how you like it!!!

[@Nine_883]

@@SwankyCatProductions I would love to have them all, but I am saving up for the T7 and that is going to be my last bike. I am going to mod the crap out of it and ride it until the day I die. I have a couple of street bikes I can ride when the T7 is being worked over.

[@donuthole7236]

The DR needs a few mods to bring it up to snuff. What I like about the DR over the XR is the oil cooler and cush driver. The XR's I've owned ran hotter than a firecracker where the DR runs pretty cool. Both are good bikes with the nod going to the XR off-road. Having the choice between the XR and the DR. I'd opt for the DR for all around riding situations but you can't go wrong with either it boils down to personal preference.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Agreed!!!

[@elwood62]

This really is a fantastic comparison video. You hit on all the major points. It still surprises me that the consensus of the KLR being the better road bike isn’t necessarily true. Besides the stock range and wind protection these other two bikes actually perform better? They only come available once in a blue moon, but I think I’ve made up my mind to wait for a new XR. I could literally drive a new KLR or DR home tomorrow, but I’ll wait for what I really want. I can’t believe how much taller the XR is when you see them side by side. Interested to see what else you do with them.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it and found it helpful! Similar to the KLR, I think the XR is not for everyone, but man it sure puts a smile on my face! Haha, I know! I still can't get over it. Kawasaki got the wind protection and tank size down, and the other guys got the power to weight ratio and transmission right. Got figure! 🙄

[@elwood62]

@@SwankyCatProductions bigger tank and a rally fairing should sort it out.

[@DieselSniffer3500]

I love my Xr. The only real complaint is how tall 2nd gear is

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm really interested to see how I feel about 1st & 2nd gear on my single track and ATV trails. I always felt like I was between the two on my gen2 KLR.

[@markwheat2668]

Got my XR650L used with 15 / 48 gearing with carb, airbox,air filter and desmog. Had bought a 42 t rear! It pulls the higher gear just fine though I'm 5 9 and 150 lbs. It gets a chance to stretch out in each gear.also installed a DG slip on.

[@goldyg6511]

I might go back to derRR 650 - with yz400 forks are a must, opened up air box with TM40 flat side carb, big head / valves, rebuilt shock much stiffer spring, seat, tank and many other trick mods

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Sounds like a good build!

[@brianrahuba6919]

Don't forget that once you do the suspension, you can raise it by an inch .

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Huh, interesting... It would be neat to make them both the same exact seat height, that'd warrant a whole new comparison video!

[@caseyf8054]

Great video Ben!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!

[@wudntulike2no32]

When I was choosing an adventure bike the two top choices were the XR and DR. I chose the DR because the seat height was too high and the weight savings were not worth it on the XR.

[@tylermears480]

So its funny because my buddy has the white xr and I have a new dr both modded a bit. I think alot to do with the smoothness especially in the chugginess you were saying is jetting and exhaust. My dr jetted and pipe with 14 tooth front is much happier and smother up hi around 65 70mph then his jetted xr with 14 tooth front. Also throw some grade 8 bolts and washers slightly bigger then the peg bushings and they with be solid. I'm also running pro taper 3/4 riser with 1 1/8 fat bars definitely much nicer feeling. suspension when I have a moment to wrench haha. Great video man ill try to get a video of my dr and brake down

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Oh yeah? Haha that's awesome! Haha. Interesting about the jetting... I suppose a plugged up engine that can't breathe properly wouldn't sound as happy. It'll be interesting to see what happens after a few more mods!

[@tylermears480]

@@SwankyCatProductions procycle is your friend hahah I'm running breath easy kit with better needle on 3 slot with 150 main, lexx slip on wide open with top of air box cut out its completely diffrent animal little pull in third with no clutch it wheelies for days haha

[@2007srv]

Hey cool video I've never road any of those bikes only the xr650l and a 84 xl250 I had in 85' . So I don't think you changed the teeth size on front Xr ? thx my 14 is on the way :) .

[@mikeh.4087]

Look up Skids and Stuff watch him take the DR over logs! I cant do that but the bike can. I have 15000 miles on my DR and love it. It just does what i need really well. I ride it to work or play on trails too. Key word PLAY. im no racer and dont ride that way. One thing i noticed is the cush drive is way too soft for a thumper. I wedged cut out spacers in there from a oil jug to compress the stock rubber spacers. I found that some of that shakey vibes you get at low rpm under loads have gone away and im running solid mount foot pegs. Of course it is a thumper and it is going to have vibes. They dont bother me at all. After stiffening up the forks the braking feels better as well. I really enjoy the bike. I am sure i would have liked the Honda too if that had been what i bought. Have a great day!

[@nathanthornburg701]

I have a 96 dr350. Favorite bike ive ever ridden. 2nd gear is way more snappy than first and definitely my tallest. I can hit 50 in 2nd.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Wow! I keep getting about the DR350, seems like something I'll have to try!

[@democracyornothing]

The two motorcycles are a LEGEND STANDING IN 2024, such simple, good, durable and low-maintenance, motorcycles are no longer manufactured like this. I have a DR-650 amazing!

[@underthedrone2735]

You might try to roll the handlebars forward on the DR. I did it on my DRZ and found it felt better. I still want taller bars but it was better until I do that mod.

[@johnniewade6504]

I need a 2025 xt 500. Is that possible swank. ??? THE klr is killer. Maybe a xt 572 retro ?? I was wheelie KING in 1985. Can I make a come back ?¿?? Thanks swank

[@pederhalverson2591]

XR650L all the way!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

She's a BEAST!

[@pederhalverson2591]

@@SwankyCatProductionsAbsolutely!

[@pederhalverson2591]

@@SwankyCatProductions you might want to look at Hemisphere Off-road. They make a bombproof front fork brace for the XR.

[@brianrahuba6919]

I keep telling you to check out the DR350s it's such a great bike . If one were to do the suspension, it just might be better than the XL ....

[@stubabyfuora5280]

I have had both but didn’t keep DR long, the XR was s great bike, probably should have kept it. I think I may buy another DR in future as my street bike. I have other bikes for dirt and trails and this was where the XR shined. XR is the winner but DR is a pretty bike and great commuter bike, I personally will not ride it off road much if any.

[@Doublee2020]

Love your videos bro keep them up 👍I think u should sell the dr and get a xr650r, and compare the 650r to the 650l

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!! Haha maybe some day!

[@randywilliams4325]

Too bad you can’t find a plated xr650r for a test drive . . Very light . Mine had 50hp at the wheel and reved to 9000 rpm

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Ooooooo that sounds like a good time!!!

[@duncanwhitcombe4392]

Drop a set of Rycor intimidators into the DR forks . They control the break dive and turn the rod fork into something that behaves like a cartrage fork.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Really? Huh, interesting....

[@clvrswine]

Another great video.

[@billcotton1551]

Do they both have counter balanced engines, Ben?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm not sure how that archive the smoothness, but I would assume they must have something similar to the KLR? Just a different design maybe? I'll have to look into it!

[@fredclow9326]

XR650L is the better bike overall and is more off road oriented than the DR or KLR. Know that the XR Series bike did prove themselves in BAJA racing year after year. That Honda engine is affectionately referred to as the "ANVIL". If a XR is cared for and ridden conservatively 100,000 miles is attainable. I did modify mine into a light ADV and it has camped all across the states.

[@slalomking]

It’s not the same engine, internet myths

[@cranedaddy678]

I really considered these two bikes but I think I've decided on the DR-Z 400. Now, I just have to get rid of my KLX 250 and look for a DR-Z!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Alongside a Strom, I'd say the DRZ is a great option!

[@robbieandbeckie]

DP sintered brake pads and a Warp9 front rotor made the brakes acceptable on the DR

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! Is your Warp9 rotor oversized?

[@robbieandbeckie]

@SwankyCatProductions no it is standard size and is plenty of stopping power for me. Put new fork springs in!!!

[@javiermartinromo2361]

20 years with my XR650L no issue with CDI box

[@SwankyCatProductions]

No? Glad to hear that!

[@stoney10]

My old 1992 XR600 had 256,000 km on it before I put a big bore 630 kit on it.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Woah 😳

[@jorglange2666]

I went with the XR650R and with a few mods it was ready for Baja.

[@alanmeyers3957]

I regret selling mine, bought brand new in 06😢

[@ftf1987]

Liked my DR, love my XR....but I wanted a dirtbike I could take on the road rather than a road bike I could take in the dirt.

[@Shadow9091]

I want to use your affiliate link on Rocky Mountain, but whenever I click on one of your links, then to the main menu to order the stuff I want, the web address does not show you affiliate info anymore. Does it only apply to the items you have linked?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

When you click on any of my links that say affiliate somewhere in them it will show up for a second and then I believe it does disappear from the address. However, anything you order from that device, I think even hours after, will register as a commission sale. Thanks for checking and helping me to continue making videos!!!

[@Zt3v3]

You should add a 2008 KTM 690 enduro to the mix. You can find a 690 for the same price point, it's a worthy comparison.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I've got a buddy with a 690! Maybe I'll ask if he wants to go out for a ride!

[@harryhawk6454]

Hey Swanky, Great Review, really am enjoying your Channel, both of these bikes are on my Radar for the next 🦄Bike, as i am still Riding my T7, Great bike but really too heavy for this old guy to pick up more than once, hope you don't mind if i poke a little fun, Am sure the MSR gear is Great stuff, but the Purple pants remind me of........... maybe Oompa Loompa?😂🤣

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!! They're definitely much easier to maneuver than a Tenere, and should be much, much easier to pick up! Haha yeah I suppose they do almost look purple 😅. I think that's just my color grading though lol they're actually blue 🤣

[@MeasureInGrains]

You're over in that direction...... do you know if SK Service still does the annual swap meet?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm not sure, I think they may have brought it back at some point, but I didn't see anything this year.

[@2007srv]

hey did U replace tires or ? What did U go with , alright man safe rides :)

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Hey yall! Thanks for joining me for this experiment. If you're doing some shopping, please consider supporting my content though these affiliate links. It makes a huge difference for us! Rocky Mountain ATV: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/?ref=1042& Amazon Link: amzn.to/3Jfbfkn MotoCampNerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=rAQ-OX06xBU2aq 10% Off First MotoCamp Purchase Code: SwankyCat

[@brianrahuba6919]

This is tough . Two ironic bikes . I love both of these bikes . But for me, with my money . The XR650L .

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Indeed! Both are awesome, the XR is just such a beautiful beast.

[@brianrahuba6919]

@SwankyCatProductions Put a tune on it . There is more power to have S.C.

[@dune7824]

IMO the DR sits right in the middle of the XRL and KLR. As such it's the best blank slate of the 3

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Agreed!

[@MrSpeed396]

I would love to see a drag race. From first gear then from a roll.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

That would be interesting!

[@MrSpeed396]

@ I bet it would get some good views. Be safe out there

[@johnshropshire3399]

Great video 👍👍

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thank you!!!

[@darrylpaterick3108]

I can't set my grips above medium (with gloves) even when the temp is at 0°C or they are too hot.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Ha ha yeah they're definitely impressive!!!

[@VivamusLibero]

Question for all here ,what bike will be better for a round the world trip ?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'd say DR for sure. The XR is built more for shorter, harder riding. It works for the 5 hour on/off road rides I do, but to be honest, I probably wouldn't want to ride it any longer that that. Not without a taller flatter seat and some highway pegs. If you did that, you may be ok, but I think the DR handles hwy speeds a lot better too. Both power and handling.

[@JanNaVylete]

Still taking my 1995 yamaha xt600 around the world 🤙😁