I had an XL600 back in the late 80s, and I was a 5 gear long distance wheelie king on that bike. It was the perfect confluence of easy to use power, a relatively light front end and the exuberance of youth! 61 years old now, recently bought a new Husky 701 Enduro and thoroughly "Rottweilered" it with dongles, PC6 with their map, Yosh can, etc. The 701 has a truly stupid amount of power but even with the quickshifter helping me, I am lucky to get a paltry 2 gear eighth mile long wheelie out of it. I may have nicer things now, but getting old sucks. It can't be me getting old though, I blame the Enduro's low and forward engine placement, which does enhance steering but hinders wheelies. Too much weight on the front end, not my old age, ya, that is my problem 😆
Had a DRZ400SM before my 690SMC and the DRZ was definitely easier to wheelie because of weight distribution. It had an easier balance point to reach. I'm a shorter rider at 5'8" so I feel like I'm nearly 12 o clock before the 690 is at it's balance point. Weighted down with groceries in my bags helps. :)
These bike are almost indestructable if well taken cared of. That is why their engine design lasted so long to this day. Thanks for sharing this video.
If taken care of. I had a 1983 honda 650 in like 2016 and it ran great didnt even burn oil but i sold it to upgrade to some idiots that didnt change the oil abused it and the next time i saw it, it was literally destroyed. Blown headgasket because they were just pinning it redlining it for fun. Like man it was 33 years old i wpuldnt pin it at redline like that. If you drive it and treat it normally without abusing it, it wouldve lasted another 33 years. That bike couldve lasted another 30 years but now its gone. Its all about keeping fresh oil in it. The more often you change the oil even if its more than nessessary the longer the motor will last. You can kill the motor new by not doing the oil often. If you do the oil often it could last decades and decades and decades. You might replace the fork seals in those years. More if you ride it hard or live in the desert where the rubber dries out. Youll probably repalce the seat of you actually ride it a lot. As well as tires and your breaks will probbaly be done over the years but i mean shoot bro these things are easier to keep running than a corolla esspecially these days. And similar mpg and way cooler and less cost. And whats crazy is usually things inflate in costs over the years but the dr650 actually deflated so when they were new it cost equal to 10k to get one now you can be out of the dealer and dmv and might still be under 8. Impressive. No coolant to change. Plus theyre carburated which has advantages and disadvantages. For one carbs can last decades, with no wiring or electronics. Theyre a bitch to keep clean and not gunked up inoperable. But its also easy to jet them up without needing a laptop and fuel mapping. They have glass headlights which is quakity bit the light sucks. Probably wont use it most the time anyway, most people ride at day
As a shorter rider who bought an XR650L new in 1994 and rode it until 2019 i can attest to its often mentioned high center of gravity. That being said the supple, plush suspension is truly wonderful.
Ive got an 83 XR650 things still thumping along its just a joy to ride! Ive had many thumpers and street bikes starting with Yamaha 2 stroke enduros in the earlys 80s, moving up to big bore bikes XR's, DR's, KLR and even have a 76 TT500 in my garage all of em are epic. Im 62 and I wouldnt say I rip any more but pretty experienced at riding these old thumpers and not opposed to popping a wheelie every now and then.
Some bikes are more than the spec sheet. The mighty DR650 is one of those. My DR was possibly the funnest bike I've ever had. Just an old friend that never let me down. I ran sanctioned dual sport events on the weekend -- asphalt-tracked the muddy beast to work Monday morning. Beaten like a pinata, never once complained. I rode with a bunch of older guys who also had them and we would rate our rides by how many "KTM Kids" we were able to pass on a section, lol, obviously even one was a good day 😅 Loved my DR!
Inches away from over extending myself and seeking help on a loan on an Africa Twin decided to go XR650L and and mods overtime. Now my old school garage is a XR650L & a 99 CBR600F4 😊
These were the two bikes I considered. I probably would have 'tried' to find the honda, but here in australia DRs are literally everywhere. There are much more DRs around down here, and along with that, aftermarket parts can be bought from a cafe down here, XR parts are abit harder to come by. In the short time Ive had my DR Ive dropped a bunch of weight and sorted nearly all the issues. Im going to put a set of upside mx forks on mine and play with the shock valving until its perfect. Best bike ever made
I had the DR650 10 years ago, with few common mods it was a very capable bike. Dead freaking reliable and cheap to run. One of two bikes I really missed.
@@davidd9325 I made numerous and the best mods for me were springs for my weight, jet kit, new handlebar, bark buster, skid plate & gearing. If you are not off reading at all, I would still do the springs & jet kit.
I have an original -83 XL600R with 5800 miles, bought it with 4800 miles two months ago :) Runs like a champ, PERFECT dual sport, OOODLES of torque to lump along on forest service roads.
I chose the DR650 because it's more street oriented than the XR650, and most of your time on these bikes is going to be spent there, still the DR is capable and fun offroad as well. Also the DR has an oil cooler, which can be added to the XR but it doesn't come with one. I found the stock height of the DR to be annoying even at 6 feet tall, it was easy to lower though. Both bikes will need their carb mixture screws turned out and their needle shimmed, simple to do though. Also the DR has a cush drive in the rear and the XR doesn't, which puts a lot of strain on your front output shaft spines if you don't have it. I took off the stock muffler on my DR which was a ridiculously large thing and it weighed a ton, bike sounds great with aftermarket exhaust, fantastic exhaust note during run-up. All in all both are fantastic bikes, the Honda is more offroad oriented, the Suzuki more on-road. Either choice is a valid one.
I trimmed off an inch and half on the XR650L seat, and its still the most comfortable stock seat I've ever owned. I owned both bikes at once for several years.The XR650L has a lower 1st gear. Once I did the 2nd-5th gear swap, the XR650L became the keeper, and the DR650 was traded off. I also cut and rewelded the foot peg mounts in, down, and back on the XR650L.
Use factory Honda gears from another Honda. So the parts are a bargain. I had a Honda shop do the labor, and that was the spendy part. The gear swap project is well covered in the XR650L forum on Advrider and Thumper talk. The part #s are listed there.
Great review. The only thing that I would add is, as a XR650L owner, the one thing that I envy on the DR650 is the oil cooler …one-off my projects I’m looking at is desmogging and putting on an aftermarket cooler. As for the seat height, I got a “low comfort” Seat Concepts seat … it dropped the seat height by an inch and that has helped me immensely. The gas tank is small, but I am learning to like that in case of dropping the bike -the height of it offers a little more torque to overcome when lifting. Still, I love my bike warts and all, and I like the “Apocalypse Bikes” that are the XR650L and DR650. (Extra shout-out to my bike for starring in a movie with a mullet-haired JCVD … I guess it is an old design.)
I got the Sutton Oil Cooler. One of the best mods I've done to date. Higher oil capacity, helps with cooling and lowering Temps, and oil just lasts longer. Also got a Mikuni TM42 Pumper Carb, full exhaust. Really transforms the bike. Getting a Sumo setup to hopefully lower it a bit. Lol.
I've been blessed to own a new 2013 Suzuki dr650 which I kept for 5yrs. Loved the bike! Sold, missed. Bought a like new 2021 Honda xr650l. After owning the both dualsports. Hands down!! Honda xr650l. Just all round better bike. Low pulling torque. Xr650l sounds like a tractor when pulling. 😊
I bought a high mile 1993 XR in 2017 intended as a "trainer" for my R1200GS. It worked, seriously improved my skills as applied to the big ADV bike, but I started enjoying the hell out of the Honda! Mine came with a lowering link, but it was still tallish even for my 6'X34". For some stupid reason I sold it last year and immediately regretted it. A friend was selling a well blinged DR, I rode it, liked it, and came close to pulling the trigger, but opted for a DR-Z (downsized from the GS to a Tiger 900 RP). Hard to go wrong with any of these bikes, and used, they are cheap enough to cross-shop....buy one, ride it for a while, sell and buy the other etc.
I have two Beta 300s (RR and Xtrainer), a Triumph Scrambler XE 1200, and now my second XR650L. The XRL is the last bike I'd get rid of! Yes, it's a pig with very long legs, but it's remarkably reliable with a huge accessory market! It really is a dooms-day bike! Also about the closest thing to a dirt bike that works well with a passenger. Perfect for my wife and I on back roads and trails. Must mods for the XRL: air pump delete kit; FMF Q4 (or at least uncork the muffler); Dynojet carb kit; bigger foot pegs; IMS 3.5 gal fuel tank; Ricky Carmicle high rise bars with 2" risers; and for what I do, I dropped a tooth on the front sprocket (which is also a wider sprocket) which makes it so much more fun on trails and fire roads. Only likes to cruise at a max of about 50-55 mph though; foam air filter; and I went to Sutton oil cooler kit. Not a huge difference on the temp, but it helps!
Having owned and ridden some pretty wild sport bikes including a number of heavily modded road going 2 strokes the DR-650 (also heavily modded) is by far the most fun bike I've owned. Mine is a dirt bike, an Adventure bike and a Supermoto all rolled into one with an evening's worth of swapping out parts. It's so easy to work on, a valve adjustment in 1/2 hour, will take you anywhere and is absolutely void of tech. Huge aftermarket for the DR 🙂
I got a new one in 06, but sadly had to sell it a couple years later. I tried a KLR for a few years, great bike but didn't make me miss my DR any less. Sold the KLR and went a few years without a bike; family, younger kids, no time to ride. Fast forward to 2023 and i finally replaced my DR with a low mile used one. Super stoked. The DR just feels right : )
Great video, as a DR owner I’m bias but think you got the right answer. Both incredible bikes, especially after a few mods which (pretty much) everyone does. For me the Honda was initially more money and the height is substantial… Also the DR is the closest to a 50/50 bike I’ve ever seen, and with mods can be excellent if you push it to either touring or dirt preference. The Honda is more dirt orientated and gravitates to dirt builds, the touring not as much.
Love my 2022 DR650, but pretty much they're all the same, wish it did have a kickstarter though. Fantastic bike, so much so I'm thinking of buying another one.
@@joe0001The DR650 can take you down a rabbit hole of enhancements. Just a few are seat concepts seats, windscreen, acerbis tank if you want to tour. Suspension mods and more aggressive tires like d606 if you want better off-road.
Great video and great comparison of two legendary bikes! As a 63 year old man, I grew up with these old "thumpers", and what amazing bikes they are! As a current owner of a few bikes (BMW GS1150 Adventure, BMW Dakar 650 GS, & a little Honda XL200), I am getting to the stage where I need one light "do it all" motorcycle. I would not hesitate to get either the Honda XR or Suzuki DR 650's, but sadly they don't bring these models into South Africa anymore. It's such a shame! My choice would be the slightly lower DR, but hey, I can only dream, as most of the 2nd hand models here are pretty beaten up. Thanks again for a great review - keep up the good work! 👍😉
I started out back in 1983 on a brand new SP500, remember those? I liked that bike more than anything else out there until the modern DR650 came out in '96, but I kept the old SP500 until '05 when I bought my first DR650. Still have a DR650 to this day. Most of my riding is on gravel roads and mountain trails in Colorado, and these big dual sports are absolutely perfect for that.
I have a new xr650l just hit 1500 miles. It eats up the miles on and off road. Really enjoy everything about it so far however, I have done a few mods. It can feel tall at first but can be cornered hard and fast with a confident rider and proper rear tire.
I've owned XR's and DR's and for reliability and suspension, the Honda wins hands down for me. That said, you can't be 5'7 and comfortable ride one. The suspension alone makes the XR.
I absolutely love my 2021 xr650l. I turned mine into a Supermoto with a Yoshimura pipe. I can’t get off of it,,and haven’t even ridden it in the dirt yet
Both engines are reliable, but the DR is the most reliable. Seen an old man on YT with 145k miles on original DR engine. Even as lean as it is,still runs much cooler than XR. Sort out the suspension and a few other mods, and a DR is great SHTF bike, as long as you have lots of extra fuel. Love my black '17.
Yeah I have a black 2022 DR650 also, love the bike. I also have a little TW200 that I love for different reasons. Between the two I think I've got it covered in the fun department. lol
Nice comparison review! Both are good bikes and each has some advantages over the other. I am 6'-4" and I used to prefer the higher ground clearance and more suspension bikes but as I've gotten older (and slower) the lower seat height has become more important. So I have two DR650's, both highly modified and both with excellent suspension from Cogent Dynamics, one full height and one lowered. Comfy seats? I guess compared to the typical dirt bike maybe? But there are many better seats available for both the XR & DR.
@@cyclenews A lot of people complain about the DR650's seat being hard and uncomfortable, but I've never noticed any problem with it. I've owned DR650's since the late '90's and still have one. It's my favorite motorcycle of all time, nothing else is close except for another DR, the old DR350 which was also a fantastic bike.
I really have no brand loyalty although I’ve owned more Hondas than anything. That said I chose the DR for its seat height and lower center of gravity. It actually feels lighter than a DRZ at tipover cause the weight is carried low. Here’s the mod list. Here is the mod list: GSXR Exhaust with custom Hanger FMF Header BST40 Magic Galfer Steel Brake Lines Works connection frame guards Steel case guards Pro Cycle lowered peg kit Brake snake Shifter snake Acerbis skid plate AMP Oil Filter cover guard JNS Engineering oil cooler guard Skene LED controller AUX lights Rowe PDM60 power controller Voltmeter Red LED Speedo light Hour meter tach JNS Engineering aux light mount Moose rack Australia tail light with LED bulb YZF front fender Double take mirrors Acerbis tank Acerbis skid plate Seat Concepts seat Oxford heated grips Cycra Pro-bend handguards Baja Designs Squadron Pro Baja Designs LED controller Headlight guard GPR Steering Stabilizer Pro taper Suzuki / KTM bend fat bars ASV folding levers JNS CS cover SKF Sealed Wheel Bearings Cogent Dynamics Mohave Pro Shock with 7.6 Ohlins spring Racetech Fork .52 Springs with Cogent Dynamics Drop-in Damper Cartridges Sure I missed something lol
If you’re around lock haven check out the dirty dabbers rides. I did one on my dr650 with mostly road tires on it. Wasn’t easy without proper tires but sure was fun. Mostly everyone else that was on the dual sport course was on actual plated dirt bikes. Not many of us true dual sport guys. They also had a course for the bigger adventure bikes as well which wasn’t as technical.
@@scrapmanindustries I did it one time I think two years ago. Was a muddy slippery day on mostly warn Shinko 244’s. That event always seemed like a once and done thing for me. Good for a big bike but it was mostly dirt road or quad trail. Their little piece of single track at their club house property was fun though
@@PennsylvaniaDualSport i’m actually watching your video of it now. Makes me want to do it again. It was cold and not so sloppy when I rode it in like 2017 or 2018 can’t remember exactly. The coolest part for me was some of them road sections where you could look over and see all the mountains. I’ve been wanting to do it again but life keeps getting in the way.
Fortunately here in the UK we had another option, the CCM DS644. A dual sport with a Suzuki XF650 engine (basically a DR bottom end but with twin carbs), plus things like Acerbis bodywork and WP suspension)
I went with the Xr. It's the very edge of what I can reasonably tippy toe, but I love it. Deciding factor was steel cylinder vs the Dr treated alloy. I know from experience that if push comes to shove, (you go broke), an XR will run with finger nail clicker grooves in the cylinder, as long as you keep adding oil. I'm pretty sure the Dr is dead at that point.
@@jakeviolet2195 no probably not, but I always lean towards, "what if?" I also like that it's the most off road/rugged of the 3 classic thumpers. Not to knock the others. Just my preference.
Great review. I'm going with the XR. In 1975 I was 9 years old my father bought me the XR75 and she was built to last. Have to have another XR in my life right about now.
Never had a DR, have owned my XRL 15+ years and 30k miles. With the proper task oriented tires, real hand guards and a big tank, play around with gearing, it has been a great all-rounder on the cheap. Added a lower Seat Concepts seat and couldn't be happier.. I'm sure the DR is similar, love the XR600R Baja racing heritage the XRL is created from, more capable than you think..plonk down a trail or scare the S@#% out of yourself at full beans race pace, no reason to replace at this point...
I've had both. Will take the DR all day, everyday. Lower center of gravity (MUCH lower), and the ergonomics are FAR superior, especially once you lower the pegs. XR is much top heavier (noticeably so), has a weaker subframe, and you need the strangest body proportions to ride it: the inseam of an NBA player (~37 inch seat height) to mount it and get a foot down on uneven terrain, but once you're on it you need to be built like a jockey (seat to peg distance 21-ish inches) to be comfortable. I'm on the taller side and my hips and knees are annoyingly cramped.
You didn't mention the large oil cooler on the DR650, which is a huge plus when riding in hot weather or in slow traffic in the city. The DR650 will never overheat, or at least I've never heard of one overheating. But with the XR, overheating issues are well-known. Also the DR650 has a cush hub and the XR does not. This is important for street use to protect the drive train. Anyway, I've owned both bikes and currently own a DR650. I didn't like the XR nearly as much as the DR.
I have the dr650 now.Always had Honda's before.The Honda seems much more balanced to ride notably the gearbox always has a natural feel to the shifting and is so easy to have in the correct gear.I am better at riding the Suzuki now after some years but I have to manhandle it with a lot of effort.Think I am gonna go back to Honda.
I love both bikes. I was going to get an XR650L but being 5'10" with a 30" inseam that just wasn't happening. So l ended up with my 2023 DR650 and l've been having a great time riding, tuning and modding this n that which is fun and makes the bike more capable for my specific needs. I can only own one motorcycle, thankfully the big DR can handle everything l throw it's way!
I understand that nobody will read this, but as a PROUD owner of THE MIGHTY SUZUKI DR 650 - I have to say, it is THE best TRUE 50/50 Dual Sport Bike on the planet. There are some mods you will want to do, but that depends on where you ride, how you ride, etc. I am almost 62 years old, and have been riding since I was about 5 - and it is the best bike I have ever owned. With a little research, you can do all the mod's & maintenance yourself. It is bulletproof and NOTHING beats a Big Bore Single Cylinder Carbureted Thumper !!!
I loved everything about my XR but the seat height made it dangerous. I’m 6’1”. This wouldn’t be a problem for a highly experienced maniac type but I’m not that type. A lowering link is available but you don’t even get a full inch lower. Everything else about the XR was awesome.
I envy you for having these fantastic bikes available in your country. In Europe politicians are denying us awesome bikes and cars because they are not clean... bullshit!
Which one of these bikes would be better for a heavy rider? 6'1", 330 lbs. I will occasionally be riding either one at roads up to 55 mph. I never intend to have them on the freeway.
Had a plated 95 xr600r, and just got a dr650......im in love with the dr! The xr was so tall and was exhausting to off road, but had way more power. The dr.....such a gentle giant. Still plenty of power, feels way more solid on and off road. I still miss that 600r, but being 41, i would pick the dr everyday over it.
Good info I had my mind set on the Honda but being only 5’ 7” maybe the Suzuki is a better fit. I heard most falls are because the rider has a hard time getting a foot on the ground.
I currently have the DRZ400S but I'd love to add the DR650 to the stable. Sometimes you want to ride more street than trail or equal amounts. The DRZ will do it but not at freeway speeds for very long. Maybe if it had a 6th gear.
Fun fact, honda turned down a fellow for credit one time who was wanting to buy an xr650. With sn 800+ credit score. So i cant tell you if the honda rides worse than the suzuki… but i can tell you first hand the suzuki dr650 rides way better than that honda😬🍻 It blew my mind to see the aftermarket following the dr650 has. Over the years and miles i have transferred it into an adventure bike. Have a little over 20,000 miles on it. Has been an absolutely wonderful machine. I hope they never quit building it, but i feel its days are numbered with Australia banning them.
I'm looking to get into motor cycles for the purpose of exploring logging roads that may have washout but still possible to travel with a 2 wheels vehicle but not a 4 wheel suv. I'M 300lbs 6'3" , looking at the XR650L, are there pack racks or pan racks available for the 650? Ideally I'd like a (3) combined pack volume of 80 to 100 liters for bringing camping gear, food, clothes, and step 2's (IYKYK). Also do folks upgrade to larger fuel tanks? Is 3.5 to 5 gallons unheard of? Is it an option?
as someone that owned a 97 Honda XR600 with a Baja designs street legal kit on it, i feel itnimportant for all XR650L owners to always give thanks to the Honda engineer that gave them electric start
Although I've ridden both these bikes, I don't think either can hold a candle to a 690/701 performance wise. But they are definitely affordable and reliable.
I had a 2017 xr650l and since you have to upgrade the front sprocket anyway its the same to drop 1 tooth in the front as it is to go up 3 teeth in the rear
Thanks for a real review of the motorcycles. Most of these RUclips "reviews " are just 10 minutes of videos showing showing someone riding the motorcycle and they saying. It's really nice 😮
I can't speak for the DR as I have never owned one, but what I can speak for the XR: The aftermarket for the XR650L is IMMENSE, and while the stock XR650 makes a sad, measly 34hp, there are affordable kits to remove the smog BS off the bike, put an exhaust on it and jet the carb, these bikes very very easily make more than 50hp. They're just extremely choked up from the factory.
In A Drag Race Who Will Win DR or XR & Thats With A Cople of upgrades To Like Pipe & Big 🔫 Gun silencer & maybe a jacket who do you think would win quarter mile Drag Race 🤷🏻♀️
I just found an ad on FB marketplace for a 2021 XR650L with a blown motor. I’m not saying that’s not possible but very uncommon. Wondering what caused it if anyone knows what has been known to cause that? Also, thanks for the head to head comparison.
Probably rode in high temperatures, didn't change and check the oil, overheated it in traffic. Or went off road on a hot sunny day and did a half-an-hour try to get out of a mud puddle...
I ride an old DR250 and before that I rode XR's. I should never have bought the DR and instead bought an XR. I'm looking at one again. Honda XR's are miles ahead of Suzuki DR's. Not always on paper, but in the real world where it matters.
Make sure to check and see if it has the Torque limiter! 98 and half of 99 Suzuki went without and it can break the inner engine case. It's a semi known defect. Ask me how I know...
I had an XL600 back in the late 80s, and I was a 5 gear long distance wheelie king on that bike. It was the perfect confluence of easy to use power, a relatively light front end and the exuberance of youth!
61 years old now, recently bought a new Husky 701 Enduro and thoroughly "Rottweilered" it with dongles, PC6 with their map, Yosh can, etc. The 701 has a truly stupid amount of power but even with the quickshifter helping me, I am lucky to get a paltry 2 gear eighth mile long wheelie out of it.
I may have nicer things now, but getting old sucks. It can't be me getting old though, I blame the Enduro's low and forward engine placement, which does enhance steering but hinders wheelies. Too much weight on the front end, not my old age, ya, that is my problem 😆
Love it! Riding keeps you young.
If You're the wheelie king, You're the the Man!!
Born in 1962, I will take you for a ride on my XR650R.
@@Deontjie A buddy has a BRP, love that bike. It is a pity Honda didn't use that engine to build their big dual sport years ago.
Had a DRZ400SM before my 690SMC and the DRZ was definitely easier to wheelie because of weight distribution. It had an easier balance point to reach. I'm a shorter rider at 5'8" so I feel like I'm nearly 12 o clock before the 690 is at it's balance point. Weighted down with groceries in my bags helps. :)
These bike are almost indestructable if well taken cared of. That is why their engine design lasted so long to this day. Thanks for sharing this video.
You nailed it. Thanks Francisco 🤝
If taken care of. I had a 1983 honda 650 in like 2016 and it ran great didnt even burn oil but i sold it to upgrade to some idiots that didnt change the oil abused it and the next time i saw it, it was literally destroyed. Blown headgasket because they were just pinning it redlining it for fun. Like man it was 33 years old i wpuldnt pin it at redline like that. If you drive it and treat it normally without abusing it, it wouldve lasted another 33 years. That bike couldve lasted another 30 years but now its gone. Its all about keeping fresh oil in it. The more often you change the oil even if its more than nessessary the longer the motor will last. You can kill the motor new by not doing the oil often. If you do the oil often it could last decades and decades and decades. You might replace the fork seals in those years. More if you ride it hard or live in the desert where the rubber dries out. Youll probably repalce the seat of you actually ride it a lot. As well as tires and your breaks will probbaly be done over the years but i mean shoot bro these things are easier to keep running than a corolla esspecially these days. And similar mpg and way cooler and less cost. And whats crazy is usually things inflate in costs over the years but the dr650 actually deflated so when they were new it cost equal to 10k to get one now you can be out of the dealer and dmv and might still be under 8. Impressive. No coolant to change. Plus theyre carburated which has advantages and disadvantages. For one carbs can last decades, with no wiring or electronics. Theyre a bitch to keep clean and not gunked up inoperable. But its also easy to jet them up without needing a laptop and fuel mapping. They have glass headlights which is quakity bit the light sucks. Probably wont use it most the time anyway, most people ride at day
As a shorter rider who bought an XR650L new in 1994 and rode it until 2019 i can attest to its often mentioned high center of gravity. That being said the supple, plush suspension is truly wonderful.
Great point
Dr650 content I click
🤝🤝🤝
2 Girls 1 Cup.... I click
Sttu5t5 get get t4555
I need a Honda xr 150l how can i find?
I have a XR150L where can I find a DR650 her in the PI.. lol
Ive got an 83 XR650 things still thumping along its just a joy to ride! Ive had many thumpers and street bikes starting with Yamaha 2 stroke enduros in the earlys 80s, moving up to big bore bikes XR's, DR's, KLR and even have a 76 TT500 in my garage all of em are epic. Im 62 and I wouldnt say I rip any more but pretty experienced at riding these old thumpers and not opposed to popping a wheelie every now and then.
Some bikes are more than the spec sheet. The mighty DR650 is one of those. My DR was possibly the funnest bike I've ever had. Just an old friend that never let me down. I ran sanctioned dual sport events on the weekend -- asphalt-tracked the muddy beast to work Monday morning. Beaten like a pinata, never once complained. I rode with a bunch of older guys who also had them and we would rate our rides by how many "KTM Kids" we were able to pass on a section, lol, obviously even one was a good day 😅 Loved my DR!
"Beaten like a pinata", we are definitely stealing that one!
My lawnmower has more hp
😂
Inches away from over extending myself and seeking help on a loan on an Africa Twin decided to go XR650L and and mods overtime. Now my old school garage is a XR650L & a 99 CBR600F4 😊
Very cool TJ!
@johnnyrebellion8672this is the way
These were the two bikes I considered. I probably would have 'tried' to find the honda, but here in australia DRs are literally everywhere. There are much more DRs around down here, and along with that, aftermarket parts can be bought from a cafe down here, XR parts are abit harder to come by. In the short time Ive had my DR Ive dropped a bunch of weight and sorted nearly all the issues. Im going to put a set of upside mx forks on mine and play with the shock valving until its perfect. Best bike ever made
Nice! With upgraded suspension that bike would be awesome.
I had the DR650 10 years ago, with few common mods it was a very capable bike. Dead freaking reliable and cheap to run. One of two bikes I really missed.
Very common response. Solid machine!
What mods dovyou recommend
I regretted selling mine for like 15 years and finally just bought another one. Just do it brother!
That bike was making you alive buddy
@@davidd9325 I made numerous and the best mods for me were springs for my weight, jet kit, new handlebar, bark buster, skid plate & gearing. If you are not off reading at all, I would still do the springs & jet kit.
I have an original -83 XL600R with 5800 miles, bought it with 4800 miles two months ago :) Runs like a champ, PERFECT dual sport, OOODLES of torque to lump along on forest service roads.
Great video, love my Doctor!
However when you called the Dr’s seat, wide and comfortable for long rides I almost broke my chair!
😂
LOL, coming off a motocross bike, these seats are like Lazy Boys!
have you ever sat on a ktm 690 seat !?
@@izom No I haven't...Is it worst then the mighty DR's ?
@@Bugoutnow589 like a tight motocrossseat- nearly zero comfort :-)
I’ve had both. The XR seat is nice & plush-fantastic actually.
The DR seat needs to be changed ASAP.
I chose the DR650 because it's more street oriented than the XR650, and most of your time on these bikes is going to be spent there, still the DR is capable and fun offroad as well. Also the DR has an oil cooler, which can be added to the XR but it doesn't come with one. I found the stock height of the DR to be annoying even at 6 feet tall, it was easy to lower though. Both bikes will need their carb mixture screws turned out and their needle shimmed, simple to do though. Also the DR has a cush drive in the rear and the XR doesn't, which puts a lot of strain on your front output shaft spines if you don't have it. I took off the stock muffler on my DR which was a ridiculously large thing and it weighed a ton, bike sounds great with aftermarket exhaust, fantastic exhaust note during run-up. All in all both are fantastic bikes, the Honda is more offroad oriented, the Suzuki more on-road. Either choice is a valid one.
Good video, I'd like to do an honorable mention to the perfect compromise: Yamaha XT600
I trimmed off an inch and half on the XR650L seat, and its still the most comfortable stock seat I've ever owned. I owned both bikes at once for several years.The XR650L has a lower 1st gear. Once I did the 2nd-5th gear swap, the XR650L became the keeper, and the DR650 was traded off. I also cut and rewelded the foot peg mounts in, down, and back on the XR650L.
Very cool to hear! Thanks for the insight, we might do that trick to the XR.
Can you tell me more about the 2nd-5th gear swap? Very curious.
You gonna tell us about the gear swap?
Use factory Honda gears from another Honda. So the parts are a bargain. I had a Honda shop do the labor, and that was the spendy part. The gear swap project is well covered in the XR650L forum on Advrider and Thumper talk. The part #s are listed there.
Great review. The only thing that I would add is, as a XR650L owner, the one thing that I envy on the DR650 is the oil cooler …one-off my projects I’m looking at is desmogging and putting on an aftermarket cooler. As for the seat height, I got a “low comfort” Seat Concepts seat … it dropped the seat height by an inch and that has helped me immensely. The gas tank is small, but I am learning to like that in case of dropping the bike -the height of it offers a little more torque to overcome when lifting. Still, I love my bike warts and all, and I like the “Apocalypse Bikes” that are the XR650L and DR650. (Extra shout-out to my bike for starring in a movie with a mullet-haired JCVD … I guess it is an old design.)
Great points and well said LJ
Try the sutton oil cooler, easy to install and keeps oil looking cleaner a lot longer
I got the Sutton Oil Cooler. One of the best mods I've done to date. Higher oil capacity, helps with cooling and lowering Temps, and oil just lasts longer. Also got a Mikuni TM42 Pumper Carb, full exhaust. Really transforms the bike. Getting a Sumo setup to hopefully lower it a bit. Lol.
I've been blessed to own a new 2013 Suzuki dr650 which I kept for 5yrs. Loved the bike! Sold, missed. Bought a like new 2021 Honda xr650l. After owning the both dualsports. Hands down!! Honda xr650l. Just all round better bike. Low pulling torque. Xr650l sounds like a tractor when pulling. 😊
I bought a high mile 1993 XR in 2017 intended as a "trainer" for my R1200GS. It worked, seriously improved my skills as applied to the big ADV bike, but I started enjoying the hell out of the Honda! Mine came with a lowering link, but it was still tallish even for my 6'X34". For some stupid reason I sold it last year and immediately regretted it. A friend was selling a well blinged DR, I rode it, liked it, and came close to pulling the trigger, but opted for a DR-Z (downsized from the GS to a Tiger 900 RP). Hard to go wrong with any of these bikes, and used, they are cheap enough to cross-shop....buy one, ride it for a while, sell and buy the other etc.
I have two Beta 300s (RR and Xtrainer), a Triumph Scrambler XE 1200, and now my second XR650L. The XRL is the last bike I'd get rid of! Yes, it's a pig with very long legs, but it's remarkably reliable with a huge accessory market! It really is a dooms-day bike! Also about the closest thing to a dirt bike that works well with a passenger. Perfect for my wife and I on back roads and trails.
Must mods for the XRL: air pump delete kit; FMF Q4 (or at least uncork the muffler); Dynojet carb kit; bigger foot pegs; IMS 3.5 gal fuel tank; Ricky Carmicle high rise bars with 2" risers; and for what I do, I dropped a tooth on the front sprocket (which is also a wider sprocket) which makes it so much more fun on trails and fire roads. Only likes to cruise at a max of about 50-55 mph though; foam air filter; and I went to Sutton oil cooler kit. Not a huge difference on the temp, but it helps!
Having owned and ridden some pretty wild sport bikes including a number of heavily modded road going 2 strokes the DR-650 (also heavily modded) is by far the most fun bike I've owned. Mine is a dirt bike, an Adventure bike and a Supermoto all rolled into one with an evening's worth of swapping out parts. It's so easy to work on, a valve adjustment in 1/2 hour, will take you anywhere and is absolutely void of tech. Huge aftermarket for the DR 🙂
I got a new one in 06, but sadly had to sell it a couple years later. I tried a KLR for a few years, great bike but didn't make me miss my DR any less. Sold the KLR and went a few years without a bike; family, younger kids, no time to ride. Fast forward to 2023 and i finally replaced my DR with a low mile used one. Super stoked. The DR just feels right : )
Great video, as a DR owner I’m bias but think you got the right answer.
Both incredible bikes, especially after a few mods which (pretty much) everyone does.
For me the Honda was initially more money and the height is substantial…
Also the DR is the closest to a 50/50 bike I’ve ever seen, and with mods can be excellent if you push it to either touring or dirt preference.
The Honda is more dirt orientated and gravitates to dirt builds, the touring not as much.
Good points for sure.
Never ever getting rid of my DR! Cheap, fun, 80 mph all day long. Like others have said, with the right mods makes it a capable bike. 👍🏻
Love my 2022 DR650, but pretty much they're all the same, wish it did have a kickstarter though. Fantastic bike, so much so I'm thinking of buying another one.
What kind of mods would you need to make it better?
@@joe0001The DR650 can take you down a rabbit hole of enhancements. Just a few are seat concepts seats, windscreen, acerbis tank if you want to tour. Suspension mods and more aggressive tires like d606 if you want better off-road.
@@BillySBCkickstarter would be nice
Which one is better on the highway
Great video and great comparison of two legendary bikes! As a 63 year old man, I grew up with these old "thumpers", and what amazing bikes they are! As a current owner of a few bikes (BMW GS1150 Adventure, BMW Dakar 650 GS, & a little Honda XL200), I am getting to the stage where I need one light "do it all" motorcycle. I would not hesitate to get either the Honda XR or Suzuki DR 650's, but sadly they don't bring these models into South Africa anymore. It's such a shame! My choice would be the slightly lower DR, but hey, I can only dream, as most of the 2nd hand models here are pretty beaten up. Thanks again for a great review - keep up the good work! 👍😉
Get a KLR.
I started out back in 1983 on a brand new SP500, remember those? I liked that bike more than anything else out there until the modern DR650 came out in '96, but I kept the old SP500 until '05 when I bought my first DR650. Still have a DR650 to this day. Most of my riding is on gravel roads and mountain trails in Colorado, and these big dual sports are absolutely perfect for that.
The more complicated they make these bikes the less reliable they become that’s why these bikes stand the test of time because they’re simple
Simple is as simple does, right?
Wait Wait did he just say the DR's seat was Comfortable ! Best 2x6 Ive tried to sit on... DR's Rock with some Prep
Lol
Bout time someone compared these two!!!
Thanks Roman!
I have a new xr650l just hit 1500 miles. It eats up the miles on and off road. Really enjoy everything about it so far however, I have done a few mods. It can feel tall at first but can be cornered hard and fast with a confident rider and proper rear tire.
I've owned XR's and DR's and for reliability and suspension, the Honda wins hands down for me. That said, you can't be 5'7 and comfortable ride one. The suspension alone makes the XR.
I absolutely love my 2021 xr650l. I turned mine into a Supermoto with a Yoshimura pipe. I can’t get off of it,,and haven’t even ridden it in the dirt yet
Very cool! 👍
Please stay on the pavement.
Both engines are reliable, but the DR is the most reliable. Seen an old man on YT with 145k miles on original DR engine. Even as lean as it is,still runs much cooler than XR. Sort out the suspension and a few other mods, and a DR is great SHTF bike, as long as you have lots of extra fuel. Love my black '17.
Yeah I have a black 2022 DR650 also, love the bike. I also have a little TW200 that I love for different reasons. Between the two I think I've got it covered in the fun department. lol
I got the one that was available, the dr650. I love it, especially with the oil cooler and cush drive.
Nice comparison review!
Both are good bikes and each has some advantages over the other.
I am 6'-4" and I used to prefer the higher ground clearance and more suspension bikes but as I've gotten older (and slower) the lower seat height has become more important. So I have two DR650's, both highly modified and both with excellent suspension from Cogent Dynamics, one full height and one lowered.
Comfy seats? I guess compared to the typical dirt bike maybe?
But there are many better seats available for both the XR & DR.
Well said. The seats seem to be a hot topic. They are wide and couch-like, but something from say Seat Concepts can improve the overall ride.
@@cyclenews I feel like Seat Concepts seats are worth every penny.
@@cyclenews A lot of people complain about the DR650's seat being hard and uncomfortable, but I've never noticed any problem with it. I've owned DR650's since the late '90's and still have one. It's my favorite motorcycle of all time, nothing else is close except for another DR, the old DR350 which was also a fantastic bike.
@@trevorjameson3213maybe you have a small a$$ like me
I really have no brand loyalty although I’ve owned more Hondas than anything.
That said I chose the DR for its seat height and lower center of gravity. It actually feels lighter than a DRZ at tipover cause the weight is carried low.
Here’s the mod list.
Here is the mod list:
GSXR Exhaust with custom Hanger
FMF Header
BST40 Magic
Galfer Steel Brake Lines
Works connection frame guards
Steel case guards
Pro Cycle lowered peg kit
Brake snake
Shifter snake
Acerbis skid plate
AMP Oil Filter cover guard
JNS Engineering oil cooler guard
Skene LED controller
AUX lights
Rowe PDM60 power controller
Voltmeter
Red LED Speedo light
Hour meter tach
JNS Engineering aux light mount
Moose rack
Australia tail light with LED bulb
YZF front fender
Double take mirrors
Acerbis tank
Acerbis skid plate
Seat Concepts seat
Oxford heated grips
Cycra Pro-bend handguards
Baja Designs Squadron Pro
Baja Designs LED controller
Headlight guard
GPR Steering Stabilizer
Pro taper Suzuki / KTM bend fat bars
ASV folding levers
JNS CS cover
SKF Sealed Wheel Bearings
Cogent Dynamics Mohave Pro Shock with 7.6 Ohlins spring
Racetech Fork .52 Springs with Cogent Dynamics Drop-in Damper Cartridges
Sure I missed something lol
If you’re around lock haven check out the dirty dabbers rides. I did one on my dr650 with mostly road tires on it. Wasn’t easy without proper tires but sure was fun. Mostly everyone else that was on the dual sport course was on actual plated dirt bikes. Not many of us true dual sport guys. They also had a course for the bigger adventure bikes as well which wasn’t as technical.
@@scrapmanindustries I did it one time I think two years ago. Was a muddy slippery day on mostly warn Shinko 244’s. That event always seemed like a once and done thing for me. Good for a big bike but it was mostly dirt road or quad trail. Their little piece of single track at their club house property was fun though
@@PennsylvaniaDualSport i’m actually watching your video of it now. Makes me want to do it again. It was cold and not so sloppy when I rode it in like 2017 or 2018 can’t remember exactly. The coolest part for me was some of them road sections where you could look over and see all the mountains. I’ve been wanting to do it again but life keeps getting in the way.
Fortunately here in the UK we had another option, the CCM DS644. A dual sport with a Suzuki XF650 engine (basically a DR bottom end but with twin carbs), plus things like Acerbis bodywork and WP suspension)
I went with the Xr. It's the very edge of what I can reasonably tippy toe, but I love it. Deciding factor was steel cylinder vs the Dr treated alloy. I know from experience that if push comes to shove, (you go broke), an XR will run with finger nail clicker grooves in the cylinder, as long as you keep adding oil. I'm pretty sure the Dr is dead at that point.
@@jakeviolet2195 no probably not, but I always lean towards, "what if?" I also like that it's the most off road/rugged of the 3 classic thumpers. Not to knock the others. Just my preference.
the Dr runs a nicasel coated cylinder bore, thats as tough as bores go.
Great review. I'm going with the XR. In 1975 I was 9 years old my father bought me the XR75 and she was built to last. Have to have another XR in my life right about now.
Right on!
Never had a DR, have owned my XRL 15+ years and 30k miles. With the proper task oriented tires, real hand guards and a big tank, play around with gearing, it has been a great all-rounder on the cheap. Added a lower Seat Concepts seat and couldn't be happier.. I'm sure the DR is similar, love the XR600R Baja racing heritage the XRL is created from, more capable than you think..plonk down a trail or scare the S@#% out of yourself at full beans race pace, no reason to replace at this point...
I've had both. Will take the DR all day, everyday. Lower center of gravity (MUCH lower), and the ergonomics are FAR superior, especially once you lower the pegs. XR is much top heavier (noticeably so), has a weaker subframe, and you need the strangest body proportions to ride it: the inseam of an NBA player (~37 inch seat height) to mount it and get a foot down on uneven terrain, but once you're on it you need to be built like a jockey (seat to peg distance 21-ish inches) to be comfortable. I'm on the taller side and my hips and knees are annoyingly cramped.
You didn't mention the large oil cooler on the DR650, which is a huge plus when riding in hot weather or in slow traffic in the city. The DR650 will never overheat, or at least I've never heard of one overheating. But with the XR, overheating issues are well-known. Also the DR650 has a cush hub and the XR does not. This is important for street use to protect the drive train. Anyway, I've owned both bikes and currently own a DR650. I didn't like the XR nearly as much as the DR.
Great note, thanks!
you forgot to mention th DR oil filter,oil pump and cooler that makes the DR superior on the long rides and engine longevity
I have the dr650 now.Always had Honda's before.The Honda seems much more balanced to ride notably the gearbox always has a natural feel to the shifting and is so easy to have in the correct gear.I am better at riding the Suzuki now after some years but I have to manhandle it with a lot of effort.Think I am gonna go back to Honda.
I love both bikes. I was going to get an XR650L but being 5'10" with a 30" inseam that just wasn't happening. So l ended up with my 2023 DR650 and l've been having a great time riding, tuning and modding this n that which is fun and makes the bike more capable for my specific needs. I can only own one motorcycle, thankfully the big DR can handle everything l throw it's way!
I understand that nobody will read this, but as a PROUD owner of THE MIGHTY SUZUKI DR 650 - I have to say, it is THE best TRUE 50/50 Dual Sport Bike on the planet. There are some mods you will want to do, but that depends on where you ride, how you ride, etc. I am almost 62 years old, and have been riding since I was about 5 - and it is the best bike I have ever owned. With a little research, you can do all the mod's & maintenance yourself. It is bulletproof and NOTHING beats a Big Bore Single Cylinder Carbureted Thumper !!!
Well said.
DR if you are not tall and/or will do mostly tarmac roads, XR if you are not afraid of heights, and plan to go offroad more frequently.
I've owned them both...if u want Performance go with the Xr..overall the best bike for all occasions is the DR..
Good points
I'm using my DR in Mexico mostly for commuting, sometimes offroad. I'd say it's the sharpest knife in the drawer.
Awesome!
I loved everything about my XR but the seat height made it dangerous. I’m 6’1”. This wouldn’t be a problem for a highly experienced maniac type but I’m not that type. A lowering link is available but you don’t even get a full inch lower. Everything else about the XR was awesome.
I envy you for having these fantastic bikes available in your country. In Europe politicians are denying us awesome bikes and cars because they are not clean... bullshit!
where are you living, i have one for sale. Dr650. from 1996
Which one of these bikes would be better for a heavy rider? 6'1", 330 lbs. I will occasionally be riding either one at roads up to 55 mph. I never intend to have them on the freeway.
The XR is definitely taller if that's what you prefer.
Great comparison. I love the DR myself. It’s a do everything bike.
Had a plated 95 xr600r, and just got a dr650......im in love with the dr! The xr was so tall and was exhausting to off road, but had way more power. The dr.....such a gentle giant. Still plenty of power, feels way more solid on and off road. I still miss that 600r, but being 41, i would pick the dr everyday over it.
Good info I had my mind set on the Honda but being only 5’ 7” maybe the Suzuki is a better fit. I heard most falls are because the rider has a hard time getting a foot on the ground.
I currently have the DRZ400S but I'd love to add the DR650 to the stable. Sometimes you want to ride more street than trail or equal amounts. The DRZ will do it but not at freeway speeds for very long. Maybe if it had a 6th gear.
Fun fact, honda turned down a fellow for credit one time who was wanting to buy an xr650. With sn 800+ credit score. So i cant tell you if the honda rides worse than the suzuki… but i can tell you first hand the suzuki dr650 rides way better than that honda😬🍻
It blew my mind to see the aftermarket following the dr650 has. Over the years and miles i have transferred it into an adventure bike. Have a little over 20,000 miles on it. Has been an absolutely wonderful machine. I hope they never quit building it, but i feel its days are numbered with Australia banning them.
Love my DR I almost went with Honda but Glad I went with my dr650. I love it 1 hell of a bike
Wish someone offered a 90s era DR650 RS or RSE fairing kit. That would make one hell of a "light" ADV bike.
I'm looking to get into motor cycles for the purpose of exploring logging roads that may have washout but still possible to travel with a 2 wheels vehicle but not a 4 wheel suv. I'M 300lbs 6'3" , looking at the XR650L, are there pack racks or pan racks available for the 650? Ideally I'd like a (3) combined pack volume of 80 to 100 liters for bringing camping gear, food, clothes, and step 2's (IYKYK). Also do folks upgrade to larger fuel tanks? Is 3.5 to 5 gallons unheard of? Is it an option?
as someone that owned a 97 Honda XR600 with a Baja designs street legal kit on it, i feel itnimportant for all XR650L owners to always give thanks to the Honda engineer that gave them electric start
XR is the only way to go
Although I've ridden both these bikes, I don't think either can hold a candle to a 690/701 performance wise. But they are definitely affordable and reliable.
I had a 2017 xr650l and since you have to upgrade the front sprocket anyway its the same to drop 1 tooth in the front as it is to go up 3 teeth in the rear
My man just called the DR 650 seat comfortable
Thanks for a real review of the motorcycles. Most of these RUclips "reviews " are just 10 minutes of videos showing showing someone riding the motorcycle and they saying. It's really nice 😮
Haha thanks for that!
I can't speak for the DR as I have never owned one, but what I can speak for the XR: The aftermarket for the XR650L is IMMENSE, and while the stock XR650 makes a sad, measly 34hp, there are affordable kits to remove the smog BS off the bike, put an exhaust on it and jet the carb, these bikes very very easily make more than 50hp. They're just extremely choked up from the factory.
Thanks for doing this review
No problem!
For dirt: XR>DR>KLR
For road: KLR>DR>XR
Really depends on your needs:
Heavy dirt some road? XR
Dual sport? DR
Road touring with tiny dirt? KLR
In A Drag Race Who Will Win DR or XR & Thats With A Cople of upgrades To Like Pipe & Big 🔫 Gun silencer & maybe a jacket who do you think would win quarter mile Drag Race 🤷🏻♀️
great video. i am gonna get a dr fo sho
How much the single piece
Brings up the CRF450L... then shows a clip of a CRF450X instead, lol.
They sell the 450 'RL' now, the 450 'L' was 2019-2020.
I just found an ad on FB marketplace for a 2021 XR650L with a blown motor. I’m not saying that’s not possible but very uncommon. Wondering what caused it if anyone knows what has been known to cause that? Also, thanks for the head to head comparison.
Probably rode in high temperatures, didn't change and check the oil, overheated it in traffic. Or went off road on a hot sunny day and did a half-an-hour try to get out of a mud puddle...
Oh just found this explanation
ruclips.net/video/GP_-Wv4hfS4/видео.html
I’m 5’7” and ride it fine.. 😊
love these simple good and cheap thumpers- no fancy stuff- too bad theyre not allowed to sell in europe cause of no stupid abs etc :-/
Comfy seats, did you actually sit on one?
Yes. Comfy as in squishy and couch like. Maybe not the best in terms of performance.
Las dos son muy buenas! Difícil escoger una.
Question for all you DRZ owners. I have been eyeing a 2008 that is for sale. What do you all think of that year? To old of a bike?
Actually the 650 l dates back to the 1983 xl 600 .
What about the Yamaha xt600
Great comparison. Cheers.
Thanks for watching!
Not stock ‘13 Dr650
👊bbbraaaaaaaaaaap✊
Xr wins in my book but I'm a big guy I need that extra suspension
it's so sad we can't get the 2 in Europe 😢
Xr600r the real dirt bike and will rip past both of those bikes
Low revving torquey engines make for better 2 up riding IMHO. I'd take the DR for being shorter.
I would personally just pick the one that’s got the most comfortable seat.
Would I be okay on one of these at 5'7? Thought I found my dream bike til I remembered I'm short and dual sports usually aren't 😂
The Suzuki is definitely more approachable with a seat height of 34.8 inches. The Honda XR 650's seat height is three inches taller at 37 inches.
I’m 5’5” and had a 2001 XR650. I just lowered the rear suspension preload a bit. It was easy to get used to.
street legal xr650r
Does anyone make a slightly longer swing arm, 2-3 inches, for these bikes?
Honda dropped the xr650l a few years back in Canada. Bought a ‘23 dr650. Why Honda?
Honda just does a better job and pays attention to detail.
The DR seat is many things, confortable is not one of those. You can build a bunker with that seat
Fuel mileage?
Both good bikes but I would prefer the DR 650 without a doubt
Nice
yeah they are great and i love the 80's but cmon with the styling
I have both …. Actually ride my DR lot more.
I ride an old DR250 and before that I rode XR's. I should never have bought the DR and instead bought an XR. I'm looking at one again. Honda XR's are miles ahead of Suzuki DR's. Not always on paper, but in the real world where it matters.
XR650L the 🐐
Nice Marce👍👍
My wife just picked up a 18 DR and I found a barn find 99 DR with 5k miles on it. Going through the 99 now getting it ready, can't wait to try it out.
Make sure to check and see if it has the Torque limiter! 98 and half of 99 Suzuki went without and it can break the inner engine case. It's a semi known defect. Ask me how I know...
Are you saying to ADD A TOOTH IN THE REAR?!