Why I chose a Suzuki DR650

This is my very first VLOG so please be nice! This vlog takes you through a small part of the Barossa Valley where I go over the reasons why I purchased a DR650.
Parts List-
Rear B&B Rack- www.ebay.com.au/itm/Suzuki-DR...
TomTom- www.ebay.com.au/itm/TomTom-Ri...
Dash LED- www.ebay.com.au/itm/2x-T5-74-...
Acerbis front mud guard- www.ebay.com.au/itm/Acerbis-M...
wind shield- www.ebay.com.au/itm/SUZUKI-DR...
LED Head lights- www.ebay.com.au/itm/Pair-H4-9...
handlebar risers 35mm- www.ebay.com.au/itm/RHK-Silve...
footpeg lowering plates- www.ebay.com.au/itm/Suzuki-DR...
oil cooler guard- www.ebay.com.au/itm/Black-Oil...
side spot lights- www.ebay.com.au/itm/LightFox-...
oxford heated grips- www.ebay.com.au/itm/Oxford-He...
Sheep wool Cover- www.goodwool.com.au/product/c...

[@Hypure2wheels]

Love my DR650. Ride the hell out of it. My street bikes just sit anymore. The DR650 is the best all around motorcycle out there

[@westh2756]

Getting ready to purchase my first DR650! Pretty excited. Great videos thanks!

[@thedrrider2675]

Simplistic, cheap to run and a loyal steed. You can't go wrong mate. Happy and safe riding.

[@williamchapman9288]

Love the DR. Great VLOG. Look forward to seeing more.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate! Have just upgraded the camera. So future video's will be far superior 😁✌️

[@danielboyd3263]

Thanks for the video!! You spoke well, I wasn't bored at all. Look forward to watching more. Up the dr! 💪💪

[@thedrrider2675]

You're welcome, thanks for the positive feedback. ✌️

[@mickvillinger6279]

Didn’t miss a word the sound was extremely clear so keep making them and I’ll keep watching them 👍

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks bud! 😊✌️

[@RoamingTerry]

Nicely said and spot on about the dr. Take care and stay safe. Cheers.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate, alot of um and ar's... I'll get there! Thanks for the positive comment. I've buzzed your channel and I'll keep an eye on your adventures...✌️

[@Boom-ou1vb]

I’ve ridden many motorcycles and many different kinds. My 2015 DR had been getting the most attention though. It’s just loads of fun and great for so many different types of riding. I enjoy your videos and your reviews and am looking at those heated grips. Those are game changers when it’s cold out . Get your feet and hands warm and you can ride in almost any temp!

[@jimgeyer3475]

Excellent Commentary!!!! Pertinent facts, and useful tips and tricks!! Thank You!!!!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Jim that means alot mate. Glad to have helped. 😊✌️

[@davidforeman2734]

That was a very good simple report thanks from Canada.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate 😊✌️

[@williamdickson9908]

Great job on laying out the value of the DR650! I also have a 2020 model and have done several of the mods you have done. It is the ultimate "do all" moto and will serve you well for many years! Cheers from the USA!

[@thedrrider2675]

That's awesome mate! Yea I agree with you. I see many years and thousands of enjoyable km's 😁✌️

[@williamdickson9908]

@@thedrrider2675 All the best to you Mate! Cheers!

[@dono4818]

Well done giving a decent accounting on the DR 650. Looking forward to your upcoming videos, keep going!!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Don, much appreciated. I have a 700km trip coming up shortly to which I will vlog. ✌️

[@jamoschapman2644]

@@thedrrider2675 Hey mate what was the main reason you sold the ktm 690

[@thedrrider2675]

@@jamoschapman2644 the 690 was a weapon. But wasn't good with long haul comfort.the seat felt like a barge board. The bike took a special sort of oil which if wasn't used would do horrific damage to the engine. This oil was very expensive. The bike was a solid unit but if anything was to go wrong with it you'd have to go to a ktm dealer to sort the issue. Great bike if you're riding it short distances and not far from support... My personal opinion mate. 😁✌️

[@garysouthwell5762]

Love that Quiet Deep Exhaust Note, Yoshi's do a Great Job, Plus Beautiful All round mostly road, some trail, 'All-rounder'!

[@thedrrider2675]

Do a great job Hey. Thanks mate ✌️

[@brainspace3133]

Great vid mate. Well done. .think im gunna buy one of these after weeks of researching what bike would suit me. This is the one.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate, can't go wrong with the DR, a great all rounder and a very capable bike with a few upgrades...✌️

[@stephenrogers9664]

Great video as I used to live in that area yrs ago. Would love to see another video while your off, & walking around it 👍

[@thedrrider2675]

No worries mate, I've got to change my video editing software too, I'm loosing so much quality. I'll do another one with more of a closer and in-depth look at the bike. Cheers

[@1962clarky]

Nice bike mate. Thinking of getting one myself. Great Vlog as well... Keep u p the good work..

[@waderogers2328]

Mate thats a great honest review of a awesome bike very informative cheers

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate👌

[@floydkennedy54]

Beautiful country in Australia I enjoyed your video and the tips and tricks you have shared with everyone. I'm looking at buying my first DR650 and live in Southern Missouri, USA where we have miles and miles of gravel/dirt roads. I really like the sheepskin seat cover idea also. Nice bike.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks for the positive feed back mate 👍 the DR will lap up that sort of territory. I find the DR can sit comfortably at 100km/h on the dirt at a low rpm. Perfect for your sort of country roads. Ride safe ✌️

[@KJ6UXW]

I just bought my 2021 DR650. I have 500 miles on the bike so far. Absolutely fun bike to ride and commute to work. Thank you for making your video.

[@thedrrider2675]

Awesome mate! Glad to hear and welcome to the DR group 😄👍

[@CPM994]

Great review mate, ive been thinking of getting a DR and you've added a few more reasons to go for it, Cheers 👍🏼

[@thedrrider2675]

Couldn't go wrong mate for the price, reliability, parts, mods, cost of servicing & simplicity... 😁✌️

[@bluesman3794]

Excellent video! Beautiful bike! At 55 yrs old and owned several Harleys time for a change. Not into fuel injection or water cooled.

[@paulmontagner6360]

I had a v8 boss hoss now got a dr 650 moved out bush off grid

[@jakeblueberry5305]

I’ve owned two Harley’s and a klr 650. Settled on the dr650 and love it so far. Never going back to anything else

[@queenslander954]

Yea mate that water cooling & fuel injection will never catch on , and makes me wonder how old your air cooled car is ?

[@leehelppie4544]

@@queenslander954 less maintenance, fewer things to go wrong with air cooled...

[@ZSharkPH]

Great choice on the Mighty DR... Cheers from Las Vegas !!!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate! Stay safe up there! ✌️

[@MidCoastAdventures]

Great machines, glad I recently bought one also 😎👍

[@thedrrider2675]

Nice one mate! Welcome to the club 😁✌️

[@petercassimatis9157]

Great 1st blog! Love the bike. I'm in Tassie - thinking of buying one. Currently riding a 3rd gen SV650. Lots of good tips. I weigh about 120kg so I think I'll need to get the suspension done.

[@klauskujawa7858]

Nice job on the blog. You’re bike is sweet! Great mods…KJ

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate, much appreciated ✌️

[@jasonholtham2348]

Good video very informative. Good to see local info since im from SA. Ive had a dr400 before and dr650 way to go ive purchased a DR new just waiting for it.

[@clivegreenall309]

Hi Jason. Do you mind telling me where you bought your DR from? I'm up in Gautby .. riding a KLR at the moment. Thanks Clive

[@robertdonnan5958]

GREAT VIDEO & LOVE YOUR 650..IVE HAD A DR4OO. A DR500 & A DR600 & THEY WERE ALL GREAT BIKES

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Rob. Means alot. 😎✌️

[@paulmontagner6360]

I brought dr650 low kms still got the death wing tyres doing hwy riding but got set of 606 Dunlop ready nice to ride smooth and lots of power thanks for the video cheers!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks for the positive feed back mate. Safe riding 😁✌️

[@megamindtvsydney3967]

Nice job on the first moto vlog bloke. I have a klx450r but I’m getting a dr650 soon . Appreciate the advice

[@thedrrider2675]

Not a problem mate. Can't go wrong with Dr.

[@adrianhall210]

Great vid , keep,em coming . Thanks man.👊🏻🇨🇦

[@thedrrider2675]

Will do bud! Stay safe up there 😁✌️

[@carni6319]

Good stuff! I love my 2013.

[@johngapes7170]

Great video mate.l have just traded my DRZ for DR Tanimi.Doing all the mods as l can afford them.Having a great time so far running the big beast in.Keep up the good realy enjoyed it 👍👌😊

[@thedrrider2675]

Cheers John, Yea I'm really happy with the noble steed. I don't think either of us will regret the purchase! ✌️

[@StayingSane]

Good clip, was looking between the klr650 and the Dr650, settled on the klr next bike probably the DR

[@miketaylor7896]

Exactly what i am going to do to my bike i am due to get shortly, great vid and info

[@thedrrider2675]

Wild man. Awesome bike. With a few mods they will take you anywhere. Safe riding 👌💪

[@finnnation]

Great vid thanks. I’ve just bought one.

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

All the answers I got about the highway was that not very much vibration and it's heavy enough in windy conditions to be fine. So after hearing like 10 people say it's great at 110 I was convinced it would make a good light adventure bike.

[@ericseaverns4276]

Love the DR, own 2.👍👍

[@CWhite-fp3eo]

Beautiful country man! Love my DR's

[@jakeblueberry5305]

Love my dr. Put 10,000 miles on it in 12 months and love it so far. Just picked up some sumo wheels and can’t wait to get some tires for it and rip it up in the city

[@thedrrider2675]

That's awesome mate! Let me know how you go with the Sumo Wheels!

[@user-vf3gf4xq3v]

The DR is hard to beat. It does need suspension, seat, intake and exhaust mods to get it to its potential but it’s still cheap with all that. I put 50,000 miles on my 2009 in a period of 5 years. After that I dropped a high compression piston into it, replaced valve guides, timing chain and gaskets etc because I was there and it really help restore and even surpass factor torque/power. I’ve done 93 MPH on mine, flat road. That’s about 149 KPH I believe. It cruises all day at 70-75 MPH. Sold it long ago but I may pick up another.

[@thedrrider2675]

Think it's time mate 🤣✌️

[@adamanderson8838]

Love the video. 2 stroke as a kid was cool but as an adult I find them absolutely obnoxious. Especially if it’s through KZbin.😆👍🏼

[@wendymattiussi]

Love your video

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Mate✌️

[@nelsdude]

Good video. Keep it up. Wish I still had my DR & may buy another one.

[@thedrrider2675]

I think you should...🤭✌️

[@nelsdude]

@@thedrrider2675 Picked up a 2013 DR last week with only 708 miles on it. Have parts ordered for upgrades...DG RST exhaust, Shinko 244 tires, carb needle kit, Pro Taper bars, Cogent Suspension, lowered pegs, etc. Looking forward to getting her all modded and ready to ride.

[@thedrrider2675]

@@nelsdude well done mate! All the gear ready to go makes it so much easier! Safe riding mate 😁✌️

[@OOOUZ]

Good vlogging mate.. 👌

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Champ!

[@byroncrump4390]

You answered the questions I had re the DRZ v dr 650 but couldn’t find the 110kph cruise which is the issue in Oz long hours on the road. And the lambs wool cover is a good idea too

[@thedrrider2675]

Yea mate, she sits fairly comfortably at 110kph and still has plenty of punch out to 130 for overtaking etc. Lambs wool cover is a must mate probably the best buy for the bike... Safe riding mate 😎👌

[@michaelkeith6238]

Wow you should be a critic writer or salesman I want to book a test ride!!!ASAP!! Very informative!!!ride safe!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks! You need to get a bike by the sounds of it! 🤣

[@RabiesTheBeagle]

Greetings from 🇺🇸 Jimminy crackers man i can never get used to u driving on the left side of the road!

[@thedrrider2675]

Greetings mate. Yea trips you out? Ahah

[@jcee2259]

My street ride out of the USA moves me to dirt on Vedder Mountain. Free 24/7 usage, Canadian maintained, for double and single-track use. Which I first viewed on KZbin. For winter & summer ..

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

That windshield is great! You could use some pvc pipe pieces and longer bolts to get that windshield forward an inch or so 👍

[@thedrrider2675]

And I've done what you suggested. Spaced it out just short of an inch. Thanks for the suggestion Champ! ✌️😁

[@MagDumpGuns]

I'm torn between the DRZ400s and the DR650. I like that the DRZ400 is a bit lighter and more dirt bike-ish but the reality of where I live means I have to hit stretches of highway and pavement almost all the time which makes me think more about the DR650. This video definitely makes me lean more toward the 650.

[@thedrrider2675]

If you have open roads and long rides ahead and your two choices are the drz400 & dr650 you certainly want to go the dr650. The 400 is great for the tight stuff yes... But on the open Highway it's ringing it's little engines head off...🤔😳 food for thought...

[@baydenbutler338]

Good work, great country side. Currently stock DR, but am starting to mod. I would love to see a full list of the parts you added.

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey Bayden, I have done a video on just that... Everything I've done to my DR. Saying that I've now also changed my bars over and added a centre stand 😁✌️

[@baydenbutler338]

@@thedrrider2675 I'm interested in what center stand you went with and what you think. Apologies if I am just a newbie to you tube as I found your list just after I messaged.

[@derfelcadarn85]

Love it mate ty

[@thedrrider2675]

No wukkas mate 😎👌

[@dg8676]

Hope I can get one before the end of the year

[@nicholasgoncalves5794]

Good choice,looks like it’ll go anywhere

[@thedrrider2675]

She's a tractor that's for sure mate😎✌️

[@nicholasgoncalves5794]

I'm in uk got honda varadero 1000,good bike but too heavy,think I'm going down 650 single route,great vid budd,

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate, keep me posted! 😎👌

[@jasondunn8894]

Loving the Tenere 700 myself but like you questioning the cost and it seems the DR will go anywhere the Yamaha will. Great vid. Looking forward to more. Thanks

[@thedrrider2675]

TheTenere is my next bike to get... I've heard nothing but good come from them. Happy and safe riding mate ✌️

[@raulalves580]

I want also by the Tenere 700 but i will miss my Suzuki Dr se from 1998 ... i dont now what i Need to do help me

[@thedrrider2675]

@@raulalves580 I'll never get rid of my DR, get the Tenere aswell? 😁✌️

[@leeperry1629]

I heard that the Tenere is a fantastic bike but heard it has a tall engine and therefore a high centre of gravity with the fuel tank sitting high as well. Do you find this to be the case? Sounds like it would be difficult to pick up especially with gear on it. That’s the only drawback I’ve heard.

[@richardclark2414]

Antenna coming out ya bum hahahaha , must be an aussie thing Subscribed !

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Champ, yea Aussie slang... Were a bunch of Misfits down here mate...😆👍

[@lucasvilela18]

Nice vlog mate, looking to buy one, that was very informative, cheers

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate! :)

[@seanstrickland4970]

I've spent more time wrenching on it than riding it but that's why I got it

[@pedintx]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🙏🏻, Paul from Texas

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Since I’ve bought my DR I’ve considered getting rid of one of my other bikes. It used to be that I’d buy a bike and want something different a year later.

[@gp891]

Hey, love your video. Just wondering what front finder are you using?? Edit: take that back just watched the video where you talked about your mods, but still love the video.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate. Much appreciated 😁✌️

[@vineetjoshi5241]

Nice ride! Where are these trails? Please share the route. Thanks!

[@stevebroder5091]

beautiful MATE, just beautiful, Well dune.

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate👌

[@user-iy2nf5zx6f]

DR650 = AK47 !!!

[@thedrrider2675]

да сэр

[@rightoffontheroad5106]

Nice vlog mate. I have a 2020 model also and have done a few of the standard mods. Great bike, tough as old boots, easy to work on and go pretty much anywhere you want. Keep going with the vlogs you're doing great. What area are you riding? I'm from Brisbane, Qld and am interested in finding some tracks to navigate. Cheers. 👍🏼🇦🇺

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey mate, thanks for the positive comment. Yea seems like most people do similar mods with these bikes. I'm from the Barossa Valley in South Australia. If you ever come down this way PM me and I'll show you some tracks around the place. 😊✌️

[@rightoffontheroad5106]

@@thedrrider2675 awesome. 👍🇦🇺

[@seangray4512]

Great bike, pulls wheel stands 8f you know how, doesn't do anything really well thou it does everything, you crash it and it still runs. Yep Acerbis 20l tank, Procycle foam & cover kit is much needed. Such and easy bike to work on etc. Anything else you buy is more expensive and higher maintenance 🤣

[@leeperry1629]

Nice Vlog. I think the DR is the thinking man’s adventure bike. The bullet-proof factor is the winner here. I’ve got a DRZ 400e I use for fire trails mainly. I know you can swap out the sprockets to get a more comfortable 110 km speed on the highway but not sure if that would ruin the low end grunt for the dirt. I’m about to go to the D606 on the 400. Stock is 120 at the rear did you go 130 on the DRZ ? If I get into adventure bike riding I’ll definitely go to the 650. Nice job on yours !

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate, yea I did run a 130 on the back of my drz and it had no issues. Both bikes are incredibly bullet proof mate... can't go wrong with either...💪

[@matbowman9650]

Good honest appraisal of the DR650! Is the sheepskin seat cover (great idea) that you fitted a proper seat cover, or did you just buy a fleece, wrap it around the seat base, and staple it on?

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey mate it's a wrap around, but fitted for the Dr 650 I think I left a link in description about where to get one from... Probably one of the best investments for the ol girl...✌️

[@ThroughtheValleyADV]

Great video mate!! You still running with the DR?? I’m thinking of changing to one for commuting and weekend trails!

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey mate, haven't done a vid for a while, life's been hectic... Yes still running the ol 650 she's a reliable ol steed... Couldn't go wrong with a DR as a daily and the weekend bash...👌✌️

[@hometele4216]

I want one now. In the same boat, ive had road bikes for while now and seeing the need for a dirt bike for camping. seems like the obvious choice. just one thing. What YEAR MODEL is your bike and which model is the best sub-frame for fitting luggage? Love ya work mate!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks for the positive reinforcement mate! This is a 2019 model I don't think they have change the model for over a decade, possibly a few tweeks to the engine but the frame it self hasn't changed for quite a while I believe. Plenty of luggage carrying options for the DR mate, I've just got a B&B rack on the back which if you watch my other video of going north you'll see what I took. You can also get saddle bags that go over rear seat for even more carrying space... Basic, but a Nobel steed...😁✌️

[@jjsguitar]

Hey mate, nice vid! I just bought one of these and would love to have a chin-wag about some of these roads/tracks you ride (I am up in the Adelaide Hills). You mention the windshield is from eBay - I am looking for a tint but no one has them at the moment, would you be able to share a link to the one you have?

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey mate, congrats on your purchase and welcome to the club. Yea I can tell you about some of the tracks we go on... Most the time we just punch in a location and try to stay off the black stuff the whole way... Now the windshield is a different manner...I got mine off of eBay from cacko_garage_shop. Hope that helps mate ✌️😎

[@andrewbarten7347]

Probably the Land Cruiser 75 series of bikes. Gripe all you like about speed/handling etc but it works as intended and doesn't break.

[@thedrrider2675]

Too right mate. 😁✌️

[@andrewbarten7347]

@@thedrrider2675 I get ridiculous pleasure out of things that are simple, durable, fit for purpose AND (most importantly) affordable. $25K + bikes that are too heavy to stop from falling over with one leg hold no interest. You must be grinning like a dingo in a maternity ward ;)

[@thedrrider2675]

@@andrewbarten7347 ahaha...yea mate, tried them all...the simplicity, reliability won me over... Love the ol faithful...✌️

[@RidesForDays]

Hi just bought a DR! Nice honest review...well done👏👏I've been wondering about tyre combinations as I assumed the stock tyres were shit. You said you are running the d606's front and back...how do they hold up on the bitumen? I assume they are good on dirt but need something decent to get me to the dirt also. And what sort of longevity are you getting out of them? Thanks again 👍

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey mate, yea running d606s on the old girl front and rear, went as wide as I could on the rear also (130) done about 1800km on them so far and about down to 50% they are good on and off road mate, if you were focusing on either road or off road then they wouldn't be my choice but if you're doing a bit of both as you say you can't go wrong... Have tried the Michelin AC but they tend to chop out quicker...✌️

[@lostinspace699]

Pick my one in two weeks its the last of them ,,,

[@louiskirby4266]

The mighty Dr 650 is the Ducks Team ,up one

[@maxmartin-merrells3723]

Haha, mate great vlog!AbBout to by myself one and try to keep it stock so I can put 150,000 on it lololol

[@thedrrider2675]

Regular oil changes and servicing mate she'll be good for it 😏👌✌️

[@CiaranWhelan]

Adelaide here (West Lakes) looking to get a Dog Rooter early 2024.

[@thedrrider2675]

Ol dog rooter ahaha...that's a good one!

[@markwalters1584]

😊

[@michaelchristopher2549]

I ordered the windscreen that you have on your bike; it arrived today! What did you use to mount the screen? I thought it would have come with the mounting screws or something but, it was only the screen. Thank you again for making this video!

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey Mike, yea great screen, I ditched the screws that came with it and replaced with x4 stainless steel bolts, and used 15mm spacers between screen and front light fender. Used washers both sides of fender and screen and lock tight the nuts. Hope this helps mate. 😁✌️

[@michaelchristopher2549]

@@thedrrider2675 thank you for the reply! The screen is fantastic quality! It will be nice having a decent windscreen on the bike! Take care!

[@thedrrider2675]

@@michaelchristopher2549 just for heads up don't torque the nuts up too tight against the poly... Hit a bloody galah the other day at 112km/h and it hit the screen square on... Thought yea Na that's broken it for sure... But nope... Bucked the bird right off without a scratch... Fairly strong stuff by the looks of it... Keep me posted of your adventures mate. 😁✌️

[@michaelchristopher2549]

@@thedrrider2675 Wow! Glad there was no damage to you or the screen. Flying objects and wildlife can be unnerving for sure! Thanks for the heads up, I appreciate it!

[@machupikachu1085]

Great insight! How is the 650 compared to the Dr.Z off road? Is the extra weight a real penalty? How is the suspension compare as well? Thanks. Cheers!

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks mate. The weight comparison to the 400/650 is fairly minor. The DR is by no means a heavy bike. The drz400 is built for tighter trail work, yet still boasts a reliable and cheap to maintain engine. It falls short at top speed. I don't see a drz400 lasting long on the highway unless you did some major sprocket changing etc. This is where the DR laps it up. Still nimble enough for trail work but also quite happy to sit at 110km/h. The suspension let's the DR down. And if you were planning on doing any real long distance riding, loaded or even more trail intensive work it would need to be upgraded. The DRZ had a finer tuned suspension system for sure. Hope this helps. Cheers

[@michaelchristopher2549]

Great video! I almost went with the Royal Enfield Himalayan but, went with the DR650. The problem I’m having is that I still have an interest with the Himalayan. Ive never ridden a Himalayan but I’m intrigued by them. If anyone here compared these two bikes, I’d appreciate your feedback.

[@thedrrider2675]

I've heard from a mate who has one that they are also very basic but are fuel injected? He did say that they are hideously underpowered! I think in the long run with resale value and longevity you have made the right decision mate! ✌️

[@nelsdude]

I had an 18 DR & wishing I still had it. Bought a Honda CRF250L. The Honda is a sweet bike & noticeably lighter off-road but I really miss the true tractor of the DR. Lately I’ve been looking at the Himalayan also. I’m intrigued with its capabilities even though major negative with most owners is its HP. It’s a simple bike too but includes fuel injection & nice instrument cluster. The long stroke engine gives it nice torque for simple off road stuff. A little heavier than a stock DR but the weight is carried much lower. I’m shorter but did okay on the DR after installing the Suzuki gel seat. However, the seat height on the Himalayan would be nice since it’s much lower. The new model has had a few of the bugs worked out. I think the vintage simple look of it is awesome. Having said all of that I’m torn with a decision right now to buy another DR or spring for the Himi. Any thoughts?

[@michaelchristopher2549]

@@nelsdude after doing 1200 miles on the DR this season; bought it late in the season...it’s grown on me. Even though the Himalayan is still very intriguing, I think I would miss the DR. I’ve added a Seat concept seat, 5.3 gal tank, windshield and rear rack. Not planning to do any engine mods, it does exactly what I bought it for; gravel roads and trails; easily does 75 on the hi-way, when needed; I think I’m set 👍

[@thedrrider2675]

@@michaelchristopher2549 if you do anything mate, exhaust and air with jetting upgrade. Turns the bike into a very responsive and snappy when needed. Great for off road when you need that quick response. ✌️

[@thedrrider2675]

@@nelsdude I think Mike's reply fits your question fairly well. Take both for a test ride... Keep in mind the Dr is heavily modifiable. Unlike the Himalayan... With a few upgrades the Dr would out do the Himalayan anytime of the day...✌️

[@emorty1703]

Like it in the first 3mins

[@thedrrider2675]

Thanks Bloke!

[@elgrandisimojoe]

Be nice if you listed the suppliers for the upgrades Cheers!!

[@thedrrider2675]

Will do mate! I'll add it to video comments.

[@davidlopezkk5mt229]

Is your suspension still stock? I’m getting a 2021 DR 650 SE and suspension work is something I really don’t care to learn but I will if needed.

[@thedrrider2675]

Yes mate, stock suspension... She'll be fine if you're not going too hard core...✌️👌

[@louvega8414]

Nice country, man & great 1st effort. What's a PM and how do I click you one?

[@cammo1986]

Private message, you can leave one here if you want ahah... Thanks for the positive reinforcement mate ✌️

[@louvega8414]

@@cammo1986 Cool, I just googled it. Did you look at the DRZ? I can't decide between the two (no hard-core off-road). Both DR & DRZ seem to need fueling and exhaust mods. The DR also seems to need suspension upgrade. Any thoughts?

[@thedrrider2675]

Have had both, drz is for more of your tighter stuff, but on the highway is singing it's little tits off. Definately not suited to long trips at high speeds... Without serious modifications. The Dr does need a few mods to make it a true Blue all rounder, exhaust, air box mod, suspension upgrade and some tech up front will turn your Dr into a world touring capable bike... If i had the choice out of the two the DR would win everytime...✌️

[@louvega8414]

@@thedrrider2675 Cheers, man! Happy trails... PS: Just got me a Dr. Your review helped. Thanks!

[@jcf6597]

Hi, the DR650 is on my short list and the other bike is a KTM 390 adventure. I know they're very different bikes but how would you compare the 2 for the same type of riding as you do?

[@thedrrider2675]

Both are great bikes mate! And I would imagine with out researching it the KTM being a smaller cc would probably match the old dr 650 in power due to it having a higher spec engine. What I like about the dr say over your 390 would be the fact it has huge torque in comparison. The engine is lazy and truly performs like a tractor. The 390 depending on your size would have to work on the higher rpm range to do the same work. Both are great bikes but realistically the 650 would live longer, cheaper and easier to maintain. ✌️

[@212driller]

Dr is better if you plan to anything rough or are taller. The 390 is more of a street bike with dual sport tires so you wouldn't want to do anything very rough with it. It sits low as well so if you are shorter it might fit you better.

[@nelsdude]

Agree with DR Rider. I looked at the 390 too. Nice bike but alloy wheels vs spokes, 19” front vs 21”, and power is up high in the revs. I’m sure it kicks ass on bitumen but no match for DR off road.

[@waynes.2983]

Wow looks just like where I live in California.

[@divebobber]

I was thinking the same thing. Looks like Marin or Sonoma county.

[@waynes.2983]

@@divebobber yep, i live in Southern mendocino county, near the Sonoma county line.

[@rubenovejero9740]

I have buy my Dr 650 rse cause i can make all the maintaince and repair by myself. It's a very hard bike

[@davidklementis5913]

That was a big factor in getting one as well. I use it as my primary transportation and can't wait 2 months for an appointment with a shop. Not to mention time away from work and figuring out transportation 😆.

[@OriginalMusic1983]

She's a beauty. I'm really wanna get one. (It'll be my first bike in about 10 years.) I've been doing a ton of research and it sounds awesome. I'm worried I'm too big for it though. (I'm 6'2".) How tall are you?

[@thedrrider2675]

I'm 6ft mate. You'll have no issues. Great first bike 👍

[@OriginalMusic1983]

@@thedrrider2675 Thanks brother! Good to know. It'll be awesome getting back on a bike. Ride safe!

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

I would spend 5k USD modifying one before I bought an updated KTM 790 🤣

[@christiandube8561]

Buying my first dual sport this weekend. Its between xr650 and dr650. Similar price but dr is basically new the xr is 2013 but has lots of good mods. What do yall recommend ?

[@thedrrider2675]

Probably the xr650 mate if I had the choice 👌✌️😎

[@christiandube8561]

@@thedrrider2675 i went with the dr. Still 2 years of warranty and only 2000kms. Also suits my short legs better haha cheers :)

[@coobye]

Picking up my 3rd DR in a couple of days. How does the DR compare to the 690 comfort wise mate.

[@thedrrider2675]

The Dr is a lounge compared to the 690. Admittedly the 690 has far better suspension. But ride and comfort the 650 hands down. The 690 was like riding on a lump of wood. ✌️

[@coobye]

@@thedrrider2675 Cheers. I did buy the DR today so looking forward to some good riding ahead and hopefully a lap around within the next 12 months.

[@motoadventuredual-sport3671]

Is that sheepskin seat cover especially for the Dr and where did you get it

[@thedrrider2675]

Yes mate, made just for the Dr 650 here's the link 😎✌️ www.goodwool.com.au/product/custom-made-double-seat-cover/attachment/917/

[@motoadventuredual-sport3671]

@@thedrrider2675 thank you my friend.

[@thedrrider2675]

Not a problem mate 😎

[@chrisdavis3952]

Just bought mine. What windshield is that?

[@thedrrider2675]

Notes under vid bio mate ✌️

[@andrewhall9339]

What octane fuel do you find runs best in the DR?

[@thedrrider2675]

I've run standard 91 and premium 98 goes harder obviously on 98 but runs a little hotter with slightly higher rpm which is to be expected. It was tuned on 91 so that's what I run it on... She's not picky mate. If it burns she'll take it ahah...😎✌️

[@papatorr3669]

From the kind of riding you do, a Postie Bike would be a good fit! But we rides what we likes, don't we?

[@thedrrider2675]

Be riding a 1250gs if I rode what I liked ahah... Don't underestimate a postie bike 🤣👍

[@papatorr3669]

@@thedrrider2675 I have one. Hi/Lo transmission is great.

[@thedrrider2675]

Awesome things mate. Ride safe 😎👍

[@BadgerMcblasty]

Hey man, I’m really torn between the DR650SE and the Honda CB500X as a 1st bike I’m a beginner, short bloke at 5 7” but 100kg though... I eventually want to circumnavigate Australia on which ever bike I choose. I actually really want the tenere 700 but at 700cc that’s outta my legal cc range as a learner. Sucks. Any advice?

[@thedrrider2675]

Hey mate, both the bikes you've suggested are great but are probably slightly better at One thing more than the other... The DR with a bit spent on it would make a great touring bike and would handle the off road riding better than your 500, in the same breath your 500 would handle the bitumen and tight cornering better than the DR. Both offer good value for money and relatively lazy engines which in turn offer good longevity... I suggest you take both for a test ride. Keeping in mind with a bit spent of the DR it turns it from a AG bike into a good all rounder... The tenere from what I've heard are amazing bikes! And would definately be in my mind for me next bike... A mate had a Honda twin and it was too heavy off road... At the end of the day you need to realistically think about what roads you'll be riding on and pick a bike best suited. If it were me and I had the choice of those two I'd go the DR for its simplicity and reliability. Hope that helps mate ✌️

[@BadgerMcblasty]

The Dr Rider yea bro, helped. I also think the dr will handle being dropped far better than the 500 with all its plastics. Because I will drop it.

[@thedrrider2675]

@@BadgerMcblasty yes absolutely and parts and replacement plastics for the DR are easy to acquire and cheap to buy... Best of luck with your decision mate. You couldn't go wrong with the DR 😉

[@BadgerMcblasty]

The Dr Rider cheers budd, if Im ever allowed out of lockdown in Victoria I’ll come through your way And have a brew.

[@thedrrider2675]

@@BadgerMcblasty sounds like a plan mate! ✌️🍻

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

110 kph is almost 70 mph and highway limit in USA. Did you notice RPM at 110? I'm not sure you have a tachometer

[@thedrrider2675]

I'll have a look next time I'm on it for ya mate ✌️

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

@@thedrrider2675 actually 70mph is 112 km 🤣 but we usually do 70 on trips. Anything much more than 5k RPM seems to be high to me.

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

I would hate to get over 5k RPM all day. Since I'm most interested in on road long distance I might consider a tooth less on front and sacrifice low end for some trips to not very technical off road areas

[@kymlucieer433]

nice bike had 600dr with sidecar riding 24 hour trails for 5 years never brook down looking at what your doing I think ill go buy 1 next week never to old to ride . looks lick ill be ling up for anther 24 hour age 60 look what you done lolol

[@thedrrider2675]

Why not mate, my father in law still rides sidecar in the 24hr and he's in his mid 60's. Age is no limit. Enjoy your new bike ✌️

[@hilltopper600]

what about the seat

[@thedrrider2675]

With the woollen seat cover it's just Jim dandy...👌

[@RexFixx]

Id chose but im 14

[@conradwoodiwiss7936]

Keep dreaming, work hard,and save that cash , keep researching bikes, then get the one you want, , couple years will pass soon enough,

[@Errol.C-nz]

the basic Dr is incredibly basic... its basically that 🙄