Great concept.. and video. The question of how this bike exists with no evolution after all these years was ironically one of the most exciting reasons for me to buy it. I knew I would put my own work into it either way, to customize and mold it into the perfect personal fit. I bought mine new in 2016. It was half the price of most of the other bikes at the shop, and it was the easiest to work on. I learned a lot about working on bikes, as it was my first bike I've owned, and the parts are relatively cheap as well. Buying a NEW bike with a design from the 90's has allowed me to enjoy a NEW bike with old technology. I personally like it, just because. I like the simplicity and the raw unfiltered way the mechanics work. For what I use the DR for, it gets the job done A+. Cheers and thanks for sharing this video.
Thanks for the kind words. That’s awesome! I definitely feel you on that one, it feels a lot like riding some of the 80’s bikes I’ve owned but just way more like sturdy and new. It’s a really neat experience. Glad you enjoyed the review, definitely got some more DR content planned!
It's a tractor. It's a draft horse. It will go anywhere, you can drop it 20 times a day (I do) and it will just keep going. PS I am in Australia. This is the bike Australians ride. It's like a massive 4 stroke kangaroo.
@@hendrygareth put a Dunlop 606 on the back and a Pirelli m21 on the front and she won't let you down great choice in motorcycle's, also remove the small wheel that's above the chain its blue and on the frame rail, then fit a button head alan key bolt to keep the dirt out of the frame, this little wheel will brake off damaging the frame, but fixed easily by removing it before this happens.
Like your review just bought my first NEW one today I live in northern Minnesota and I WILL be riding it thanksgiving day 2021 and yes I'm an oddball that will keep it forever... Like everything else I buy!
Allow me to wish my reader to experience more found cash. Maybe as I did parking my DR-650 in a parking lot. Beside a tape-sealed cardboard box. Stamped on all sides with red ink reading: " ARMOR CAR COMPANY ". Google located their regional office, I reported my discovery to that firm by telephone. I was told they were just too busy to come collect their lost property. I was told, "Feel free to keep the box; have a nice day." Leaving me looking down at a brown colored heavy carry item.
My second comment on this great post. My first said I’d buy a DR tomorrow, and I did. 30 years of increasing complexity disappeared the moment I rode out of the showroom. I was back in the late 80’s and on my dream bike of the time that I couldn’t afford back then, with massive grin on my wrinkled face. It’s speed and power (😉) are now perfectly matched to my slowing reflexes and relaxed riding style, and the total absence of “technology” is another perfect match to my competencies. Even though I’m 6ft and roughly the shape of a 44gal drum, it’s gets me where I want to go, at the speed I want to get there. On road and off. Yup, it’ll get new springs and seat better suited to an “above average weight” rider, and tyres that suit my situation. Long live the DR!
Regrettably sold my 2010 dr650 for a road bike. I used it nearly every day for commuting and going bush. Cruised easily at 110km or all day trail riding, took short cuts to get home. Mods were cheap and easy. Cannot fault it for what it was designed for. Actually while typing this I've decided to get a 2020, I wont tell the wife though.
You will also regret selling your golf clubs every time as well as old guns often madd better than new ones like my old marlin lever action model 93. It was made in eaely early early 1920s likely and it doesnt even have a saftey. Them fellas understood freedom back in the day. They didnt have computer chips to shut their car down and this bike is literally the opposite of that. This bike will run fine if the emp hits 😂😂😂 and long after hope they never stop making it keeping it just like this. Like .22 long rifle its been the same since the 1800s so therrs a huge supply of ammo
I bought 2 x DR650SE’s new many years ago, one for me and one for my beautiful French girlfriend... the girl left 2 years later but the bikes have stayed with me... I left Australia to live in West Africa, now based in Dakar... the bikes turned out a much better choice than the woman.. they came with me and never complain and just keep on going. I love 💕 my DR... :-)
Great video. I have owned 5 DRs since 1984 and just love their simplicity, reliability and indestructibility. The early ones were stock but in later years have been TRICKED UP. My current 2021 DR was purchased a couple of months ago and is fully setup up now with the following - *Acerbis 20 litre tank * Pro Taper Bars + risers *Barkbusters *Power socket for mobile * Neoprene grips *B & B Bashplate * Centrestand * Peg lowering * YSS SUSPENSION * Barrett Pannier racks * NIII Luggage Rack * Tinted Screen * H4 globe in headlight * Concept Seat * Carby jetting upgrade The bike goes like a dream and easily handles my 115kg x 6 foot 4 frame. Looking forward to plenty more riding on the ULTIMATE ADVENTURE BIKE. Spend the money and have some serious fun. Cheers from Australia
Excellent! My first DR was an '84 model also, a little DR125. Then I had an '85 DR250, it was nice! Later I had a '91 DR350, also great bike! Then in '05 I got my first DR650 and absolutely loved it! I just sold it last year (it was getting old and tired) and replaced it with a brand new white '21 model. Perfect! The DR's have always been my favorite bikes and the DR650 is without a doubt my favorite bike of all time!
Thank you for making this video! I just bought a new 2019 at the beginning of 2020. I wanted a proven dual sport bike simply to enjoy some prairie roads and some easy trail riding. The only mods I made are; Seat Concepts seat, Acerbis 5.3gal tank, rear rack, skid plate and Bark-Busters. I’m not planing to do anything else..so far it’s perfect for the riding I intend to do!
Sounds great, got the 2020 coming but also adding heated grips and center stand, would not go with out the larger Acerbis 5.3 gal tank and skid plate and better hand guards. This will be my second DR 650 and also had the DR 600 years ago. To me that is what riding is all about go any where and not having to stop for gas. Love the smile they put on my face every time I ride them.
I have a 2019 DR and before I even took it from the dealer I upgraded a few things...Bark busters to the bars, skid plate, FMF exhaust, Jet kit & air box mod. , progressive springs added to the front forks along with Cogent adjusters for better control of forks in rough terrain, dropped one tooth on the front sprocket, did the tail light & license plate bracket replacement, Seat Concepts seat , new tires for off road and on road traction. Now this bike will hang with most any dual sport bike in it's class!
I went the other way than most. I first owned much more powerful dual sports before settling on the DR650 . The DR650 is just magical to me. A living dinosaur in the modern era of high tech motorcycles and it'll go anywhere you want, any time. I discovered my love of adventure on the DR. Hopefully we still have many years ahead of us before the DR succumbs to emissions regulations but mark my words when the last year of production rolls round I will be there at the dealership, cash in hand waiting to get one more of these gems into my garage.
Yeah hopefully bikes like these are safe for a while. From what I understand they are grandfathered in, which is also probably why they can’t make any changes.. not evening fixing the NSU switch. Haha but it’s good for us that they are still around! Thanks for watching
DR650 is a fantastic platform, great at nothing but good at many things. Better on highway than the light enduros, better offroad than KLRs and ADV bikes. Simple, pure motorcycling fun...puts a smile on my face. I bought mine with bigger tank and carb, with a seat concepts seat. I raised the bars, lowered the pegs and added a stiffer rear spring. I'm very happy...even with basically stock suspension...rides smooth at my relaxed riding pace.
Luckily my used 2013 came with upgraded tires. All I had to do was get the lowered foot pegs from Pro-cycle. They made a huge difference. For me the seat is tolerable and fuel is generally close. I'm so happy with my bike. Great video, enjoy the ride.
This the most affordable and middle of the road vanilla duel sport every made with a lowered seat height. Very cheap and affordable parts almost bomb proof with tons of upgrade available. Can you tell I love my DR650. BTW when the Aussie’s love the bike you can understand that this is an incredible bike considering it is many miles to help for those guys.
Great video my friend. After riding sportbikes for 26yrs (& I still do) I also have recently purchased a 2014 DR650. Ive always wanted one. Just never pulled the trigger. Well finally I did & with absolutely no regrets. On & offroad it is a pleasure to ride. I did though install D606 tires, exhaust & other various mods already. But I love it. People said Id hate it. Due to stepping off 191rw hp sportbike to an DR650 on my first test ride. But I smiled ear to ear the whole time. Maybe due to the simplicity of it. How things slowed down & to be able to get away from asphalt. To explore & experience more freedom. What ever it is I look forward to this new chapter in my life. And my DR will lead the way
I feel the same way, something really enjoyable about being able to use all the horsepower you have most of the time without getting in trouble. I actually just put d606 on the bike too! So much better off road and still pretty well behaved on road. The DR has a charm about it, it’s kinda contagious.
I have a 2010 I got NEW. 46,000 Miles later it’s been the most reliable Most overall enjoyable bike I’ve ever owned. Few mods and getting the suspension dialed in for me (6’ 250lbs) and it perfect. I’ll Never sell it!! If one day it dies. I’ll simply rebuild the Motor
My first bike was an 86' vf500, then a 2006 bandit 1200, now a 2001 DR650.. The DR is by far my favorite. Great bike for around town, super easy to work on, and quite capable on trips on and off-road. So far I have just done some DIY mods, windscreen, skid plate, mounted some ebay LEDs. I haven't touched the carb since I got it and first cleaned it out. I am just waiting till I have to clean it so I have an excuse to get new jets and full exhaust. You and I, and I are sure everyone else is very like-minded. Great video
Thanks! Yeah the very little amount of work I have done on the dr has proved to me that it is very simple and straight forward. So far no weird custom tools or computers. Just simple simple. I love it
Been riding since I was 10 I’m almost 70 now . Bought my first dr350 in 94. Great bike. Hauled it all over the country behind my RV. Other bikes too many. Up to a Gl1800 Goldwing. Yep I had to go back to the DR BUT this one is a 650se . Got it really cheep 25 miles on it. So! I could do anything I wanted to with it. Unleash the beast! . Jell seat first! Then tm40 pumper powerbomb header high a booze a 1300 muffler Procycle mid pipe. Good tires arbas 6 gallon fuel tank skid plate. Protaper handlebars. Kevlar clutch..note with stock gearing its to fast for tight trails dropped the front sprocket to 14. Didn’t really notice loss in top speed I don’t really ride 100 mph. The carburetor made a huge difference! Well what next? Guess the next guy can do the supp. Because getting older I have gone to a side by side. The DR650Se is sitting in my garage. Humm do I want to sell it? .........................not really I might get younger!
You know man, I've put countless hours on researching bikes, watching videos being completely unsure of what I want and being incredibly indecisive. Thats just the way I am by nature but this video just sold me. Thank you, also the cinematography is kino
This bike has been the exact same machine since 1996. It's cheap, reliable, and the aftermarket for it is huge. You can make it into whatever you want it to be: More of a dirtbike, a motard, or a long-distance adventure bike. Just google Procycle, check you bank balance, and make it what you want.
hahah thats so true, I feel like there are so many different options of places lined up to take my money when it comes to the DR. I've never owned a bike with so much aftermarket support.
I agree with you, I bought a 2020 dr650 and it is a very good machine in stock form for it's intended consumer, which is like me, it's super reliable, will virtually do anything even though it isn't great at any one thing, it is very inexpensive to buy even new, very inexpensive to maintain, easy to make improvements or modifications that one may deem necessary, but if your like me and your kind of old and fat and don't care about ripping through a single track or motor cross track like Eli Tomac or going 150 mph on the interstate then it will absolutely do everything you want it do in stock form, and keep the dr650 videos coming, you are a high quality youtuber
The DR 650 is still the best bike I have owned in 40 years of riding on the road, not the most exciting but just does what it does without all the bells and whistles with the bonus it can go just about anywhere you point the front wheel. I don’t have the riding ability of Toby Price or Marc Marquez so I don’t need a big horsepower cod piece to brag about, I like to enjoy the ride and look at the world go by not trying to carve the perfect line around the next corner or hit warp factor on the next straight bit of road. The DR lets me capture the essence of motorcycling that is missing from many new bikes, the thing that made Triumph, BSA and the like so great back in the day, just reliably.
Great bike for adventure. I road mine 3,500klms (with some 900 klm days) around the east coast of Australia in 2019. Totally stock except a aftermarket seat. Awesome trip....Never selling mine.
Well done video. I have a 17 model with minimal mods . I have several other bikes and have no intentions of selling this one. I live in Idaho and have put 5.000 miles a year on this bike. 0 problems! Lot's of fun. From 500 mile days into Montana to the Mexican border it's never let me down. There's a man on Cross Training Adventure/ TH-cam that did the exact opposite. He bought a new KTM 690 ,rode it a while , sold it and bought a DR , flogged it for 5 years and bought another new DR.. Usual upgrades and suspension mods. He loves the simplicity and fun factor. This guy's a real professional. He teaches scores of riders proper riding tecniques. He's no kid and still takes on all comers on his DR.
My last bike, my first was a moped and I rode that thing everywhere, of course I grew up, ( or so I thought) to bigger faster more tech involved bikes but always I miss the simplicity of simplicity getting on and riding all day for as long as the tank would let me. Now I have this, my DR 650 and once again going wherever, whenever. I am in love all over again, just like the first time I rode that little moped.
I almost didn't buy my Dr650 because a lot of the videos out there recommended to change a lot a little things here and there, I have a completely stock bike, and surprisingly it does very good off road for my ability, I think a lot of us will do just perfect on a stock form but, on the other hand, it's great bike to modify for more hard-core riders
Nice video. Well done! I just bought a 2020 DR 650 in June. Love it. Sold my Africa Twin to get it. As big as a DR is, it feels like a 250 in comparison to the AT.
Wow that’s awesome, yeah I can totally imagine the DR would feel like a dirt bike. Actually I traded while off roading with my buddie on his f800gs and he said the DR felt like a dirtbike compared to his bike.
I think one niche the DR can fill very well is that of a light weight ADV bike. I think the new T7 is sweet, but I like that the DR is well under 400 lb without doing anything to lighten it. It is the Jeep Wrangler of motorcycles (well, more reliable than a Wrangler): stock, not great off road, but loads of potential.
I had a 2011. Loved it but for the type of riding I started doing it was too big for much single track exploring. So I bought an XT250 which I also love for its light weight. Now that I’m over 60 and moved to Alberta there are so many gravel back roads to ride and I find the little XT with it little tank not quite adequate enough to get me to those back roads. How I wish I’d never sold my mighty DR with the the mods I had done. I can see another one being my next addition to the garage.
Been riding for 48 years. Owned 40 plus bikes over the years. Current bikes I ride are a KTM 250 XCW, KTM 450 EXC, Suzuki 650 V Strom and a DR 650. I've been riding my DR for 15 yrs and will never sell her. Your points were pretty much spot on. I like the stock seat, but I like my KTM stock seats also! Just have to do tires, skid plate, DRZ 250 taillight and metal handguards at first. The fork springs and Pro cycle carb kit with a fuel screw later. Best and most fun ADV bike you could ask for.
Wow that’s quite the collection of bikes you got! Thanks for the thoughts, I definitely do like it. Riding along side friends with newer enduro/dual sport bikes I can definitely see where it is lacking. But sometimes a lack is what gives something character and given time I’ll learn how to over come those areas. Thanks for the comment and have fun riding all those bikes!
A phrase often read about the DR 650 SE is "blank canvas", cause you can turn it into anything you want: city commuter, tourer, supermoto, RTW-bike. Up to the DR I had owned various KTMs (Rotax, EXC), Triumphs and Suzukis, usually changing them to my liking and selling them after 3-4 years. Sales of DRs were stopped in Austria in 2000 and I bought mine (a 96 of the fist year, with purple frame and seat) in 2010, bone stock and with only 7.891 kms on the clock. I still got her, while second bikes came and went again. The DR is a keeper. Mine features the entire WP48 front of a Husaberg, a DIY modified stock shock, the Keihin flatslide of a KTM 450, an IMS tank, lowered peg-mounts with wider pegs, raised KTM-bar (I´m 183 cm with long legs and arms) and - amongst a lot of other parts - a Suzuki GSX-R1000 K1 muffler. She still got the stock piston, the first clutch and has a whopping 40 hp at the rear wheel on a good day. She will unlikely overwhelm you, but riding a slow bike fast is so much more fun than feeling like a noob cause you ride a fast bike slowly. And if she requires more than a well-equipped toolkit something REALLY must be very wrong - that thing is an anvil. When I feel adventourus I take my 2nd wheelset with real knobbies and after 20 minutes got a more than capable offroad-bike without the frequent servicing needs of an EXC. Then I come home and after 20 minutes my daily steed is ready for the next day. I now own my DR for 12 years, the bike itself is 26 and I intend to keep her as long as I am able to swing my leg over her seat.
Love my 2011, although she has been heavily modified. She has taken me to many countries and far away places. My most popular video is a walk around of the mods done to mine while stuck in Lima Peru. Very well done video here. Great job
I have a 2020 DR 650. Larger seat and fuel tank, cargo bags. I also went with more dirt worthy tires, (i was trying for a cross country adventure bike). Why I bought it. It weighs less than some 400cc bikes. I like the lower seat height. It is rock solid reliable. Even with the added accessories, it is still dirt cheap. Low maintenance compared to KTM.
I have seen a thousand DR review videos and often somebody thinks they are doing something new. I think your video should be onnthe watch list for anyone considering a DR, honest and straight to the real points. I won't read all the comments because they will either agree with me or be haters.lol For $1500 cad for can do full Cogent upgrades (Cogent Mojave rear with new spring for your weight, cogent dcc and new springs uo front with fork fluid change, A/M seat, and JD or procycle Jet kit, bash plate and case Armour, handgaurds) bike is done and a huge improvement. I have a 1992 with 100,000 miles plus and a 2018 with 23500km in first year and love them, will always own at least one but going to sell one now because I have a wr250r for single track rides. Enjoy the bike it won't let you down.
Man thank so much! That’s really really nice to hear. I’ve been collecting parts I’ve been able to find used and some new. Have a procycle exhaust for go on the bike, new d606 tires, seat concepts seat, lowering pegs, jet kit, new intake all that typical power stuff, skid plate. Most of the things I want to do this year aside from suspension which I will probably tackle next year. Do you know roughly what it cost you to do the front and rear ?
Sold my DR 650 to get another bike, still regret it. Had installed a custom seat and an easy removable windscreen. It was a great bike for the highway or off road and I had got a great deal for it!
Great vid. Some nice shots. Well cut. Well written. Going to do something similar myself soon. I looked at a second-hand low kms DR650, back-to-back with an ex-demo Himalayan. I bought the DR. - Same price, better suspension, better brakes, more power, more durable, more parts around, better resale. This DR650 is my second one. My last one was in the shed next to my Aprillia RSV mille R. 9 times out of 10 I chose to ride the DR. It just made me smile. At the end of the day, it isn't about having a flash bike. It is about what you can do on that bike and the memories you can make on it.
After 1 year of riding, the DR is the only bike I want. In fact, I bought a 2nd, then realized I like my 7 year bike as much as my new one. So I sold the new one. :)
To date (December 23, 2021) I've had the following bikes, in order : 2001 Yamaha V-Star 650, 2007 Harley Davidson Streetbob, 2013 Suzuki GSXR 750, 2014 Kawasaki ZX10r, 2016 Suzuki DRZ400sm, 2016 Kawasaki Z800, 2019 KTM 690 SMCR, and a 2021 Kawasaki ZX10r I really, REALLY, miss my KTM, but I couldn't deal with the dealerships around here over a warranty issue, they tried to screw me over, blah blah. So I got rid of it and got back on a super sport, the 2021 zx10r. But I miss the supermoto/dual sport bikes, so I've been trying to find something, and I got to looking online for reviews and came across this video. Well done sir, you earned my subscription. Watching this and hearing your opinions and how well you presented everything has moved me closer to pulling the trigger on a 2022 DR650s Have you done any carb mods to this bike since you got it?
Hey Zander! That’s a pretty awesome bike history! I love the 690 too, but I’ve only ridden the 690 Enduro R. Such a fun bike. I did a bunch of upgrades, if you check the channel there will be a “dr650 upgrades” video. There you’ll see I did the basic upgrades on the stock carb.
@@rangeroadmoto I think the last ones are from 2008 on second hand. On top of that, bikes older than 2003 are forbidden to enter Barcelona city (where I live). What once was a motorcycle heaven, they are now turning it into motorcycle hell....
@@clakoclakson I have one dr 650 ftom 1996. I ride it every day in florence italy. I made many travel around europe. I have been in barcelona two times (in 1998 and in 2004). I made 300.000 km on it. It fits me perfectly. It's thee only bike I can ride
I have ridden a lot of bikes and have a few extra that don't get ridden as often after I got a DR. It is truly a fun motorcycle to ride and super easy for anyone to modify.
I bought mine almost 10 years ago, it's a 93 so it's got a real seat, kick start and it was owned by cycle mechanic. He did some head, carb work when he rebuilt it and it's a completely different bike than my brother's 2013 DR. It's also got a 6.5 gallon tank so I rarely worry about fuel, I added LEDs all around did some suspension work, fabbed real bark bars and I ride it to work everyday 120 mile round trip during the spring/summer and off road as much as I can. It's never left me stranded and I wouldn't trade it for a brand new KTM.
iv got a dr 650 a white one it came new . since owning it iv put on a sergent seat now i can ride it all day . plus bash plate .. bark busters .. wind screen .. and a back luggage rack ..its a 2019 modle .and only just ran in . your right about them tyers but .. they dont call them death wings for nothing a.. but tyers are an easy fix ..all in all as im a novis ,this bike is the perfect bike for me . they are all over the world , so no matter where one is you will all ways keep going
The service interval for the DR also make it desirable over a KTM/husky. Trading in power for more reliability and less maintenance, while still having more than enough power to get you in trouble on and off road is definitely a worthwhile trade IMO.
The simplicity is a big deal for me too. Especially with how simple the bike is to work on. I’ve had to do a few things since owning it (more of that in next video) and everything has been straight forward.
Isn't that the truth! I'll take the reliability and less maintenance any day, over a KTM, which is honestly nothing but a money pit. Most guys I know who have KTM's can't ride them to their potential anyway, so it's a waste of money to buy one. My DR650 is 16 years old this year, I bought it new in '05, and it has NEVER needed a top end job yet, and it has nearly 60 thousand miles on it now.
The high performance machines need the same maintaining ... Frequent oil changes, clean the air filter once in a while or whenever needed, lube and adjust the chain and adjust the valves once in a blue moon.
@@leanlifter1 of course. But the more involved service on the DR such as valve adjustments, and top end rebuilds, and also oil changes are spread out over a much larger interval than high performance machines. They're measured in thousands of miles as opposed to hours.
I've had dang near everything from Honda metros to top line Ducatis. I'm down to 0 bikes now post retirement and I'm buying another DR650 as my sole 2 wheel option. They are simply... fun (I do wish the tank was bigger though). See ya out there.
I drive my fathers old '93 DR. It is my first and so far only Motorcycle that I have driven after getting my license. Sadly there are no real offroad trails that I can ride in Germany, but still have offroad tires on it. Everything else would just look ridiculous. I absolutely love it and I am not sure about what to buy if it ever breaks down completely, but I am sure I will drive it as long as it doesn't. They stopped selling the DR in the EU in 2003. I use it to commute once in a while (even during Winter) and when I visit my parents. I am planning to do some trips through Norway in the future.
I've got a 2018 dr200 and it's the same story for this bike too. No updates but very reliable. I'm looking at getting a drz 400 or a dr650 and not quite sure yet... Love the reliability of the ole Suzuki's
If you do any amount of road riding go with the DR 650. the DRZ is a great bike for off road but not good for any amount of time on the highway or back roads. But if you do 80 % or more off road the DRZ 400 would be the way to go. They are bough equal in town, but Highway or long distance back roads you will be glad to have the DR 650.
I own a DR650 and a KTM 690. What can I say, I couldn't choose! I also own a Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa, but that's a totally different bike. All of them are 10/10.
@@rangeroadmoto At the moment my KTM just because it's the newest and I'm still breaking it in. Hard to say what will happen long-term since I love them all for different reasons!
Beautiful video. I am a new DR owner myself, and I agreed with everything you said. The trail wings i found alright until any mud or sand crossed you path. That said, I dont believe I ever lost the front, it was always the back going slideways on me. I hope I can find a pair of used rims so that I could keep my TWs as more street/trip oriented tire, and regularly run the classic 606/mt21 combo for local trail bombing. I think you're right, unless you are a very experienced dirt rider, the DR with some decent tires will be more capable than you. Thumbs up for the Alberta scenery, makes me a bit home sick.
Yep, we're not all Dakar racers. Pick the bike that puts a smile on your face without putting you in the poor house. Excellent video. You're subs will no doubt grow exponentially if you keep up this quality content. From Australia.
Have had several dual sports. mis a great bike for the money. Add Seat Concepts perch, gear down a touch, and aftermarket exhaust. Splendid. Never a reason to update since newer dr650s are the same machine; nothing wrong with that. When highway is my focus I jump on my Africa Twin. Best of both worlds.
Awesome review. Nailed it on all subjects. I have a 93 dr650, before they changed to the current unchanged run. Love mine, electric start would be nice tho!
That is cool! I love the old colours, they are so fun. My buddy is actually picking up a Dr600 this week and I am stoked to compare it and see whats its like. Possibly making a video about that too
Entertaining video. The other day I jokingly referred to my CRF250L as the worlds best adventure bike. Out came a very upset DR rider telling me it isn't. As you say very loyal.
You need to watch some of my stuff. I do not agree with all of the "dislike" comments - but you have no idea of how good of a bike you have chosen. It is a blank canvas. Depending on the kind of riding you'll mainly be doing - you can do nothing - and you can also modify it - making it totally unique - like no other - and every where in between. I'm 59 - been riding since I was 5 - it is bar none, the best bike I have ever owned.....
I have a 2022, the seat needed to go immediately, the chain rollers needed to go immediately, the front fork needed a brace immediately, the rear spring had to be adjusted to full tightness immediately, the bike needed to be lowered immediately, the tank... I'm probably gonna go 5 gallon Acerbis tank, the carb needed to have it's mixture screw turned out and needle shimmed up immediately. Other than that it's a rock solid simple bike and real fun to ride.
Getting a good offer on one of these with low milage. I want an all-around bike that can take me from the highway to the dirt roads. And thanks to you, im convinced. Here's your sub mate! Thank you!
I rode a Yamaha XT 600 E (2001) for 20 years. Mostly stock. Seat also hard. Modded it. Worked out great. Did well on the highway up to 140 km/h for what it was (then it got REALLY wobbly). Bike is still not really dead, but serves as parts donator for my husband's bike (he has the identical one, his carburator broke). Think the XT is very comparable to the DR650. Did okay on everything, was not particularly good on anything. Great communter though.
The DR650 is the AK47 of the bike world! It does a handful of things ok but no one thing great! Kinda easy to mod but only to a point, but super reliable and extremely user friendly. Got a DR650 in 2001, it's now 2022 and it's still kicking ass! Love it!
I would love to have a Dr650 and if I were to get one then I'd be more than happy to leave it stock. I like the style of the exhaust, mirrors I could change out, turn signals and and brake lights I could change and the headlight I would completely swap it out instead of having the box lens. There's many of mods id do to it but really just having one would make my day
This was the perfect video to find. Thank you for making it. I've been contemplating one but never even thrown a leg over one or been around one for that matter. I'm in that watching every video I can find mode and yes, it makes you scratch your head a bit. Hope to see you share more of your experience with it.
I’m glad that it helped! Hopefully you can find one to throw a leg over and take for a rip. And there will definitely be some more videos coming at some point 👍. Thanks for watching
Fantastic video. Super high production quality. You smooth talked me out of buying a DR650. I've owned 3 KLR's in the past and won't buy another for the same reason you mentioned about the DR. No updates since the stone age. Looks like I'm going back down to the KTM dealer again.
Thanks man! And I’m glad I could talk to you of it? Haha. But yeah if it’s advanced modern stuff you’re looking for it won’t feel any different than your KLR
Had a 2005 DR I bought new. I did minimal mods: barkbusters, bar risers and decent handlebars, bashplate, an RM front mudguard, HDtubes and decent tyres, some handmade pannier bars and a handmade canvas pair of throw over panniers. I adjusted the rear suspension as best I could, put heavier oil in the forks. I rode that bike on roads, camping tours, heaps of group rides in the bush, heaps of solo in the bush, snow, sand, difficult hills, water crossings that frightened me - just heaps of stuff. I did well, flogged the shit out of it, learnt heaps, built confidence and learnt to push the bike reasonably hard. Sold it, and the new owner fell in love with it first ride. Hail the might bush pig.
Great review. I was on the fence as well between the KLR, XR,and DR650. My Goal was adventure riding and everything in between. I settled on the DR650 for a few large reasons. It's a true 50/50 with the ability to higher in either category from the factory. There's a Big Bore kit available for the DR that will give you more power then the other two could ever get , making it better on and off road without losing the chug factor. Dirt simple mechanics, easy to fix on trail. If i wasn't gonna do much to the bike and left it mostly stock I would have gone KLR because the seat on the DR is that bad and the KLR is more towards comfort in stock form. Seriously though after replacing the seat the Big Bore Kit is amazing.
I did the cam and Big Bore kit. Way better throttle response, very snappy. Quite a bit more torque/pwr throughout. The higher amount of torque also allows you do go up on your sprocket without losing low end. Bought mine from procycle in Eugene,Or. I don't live to far from there I've been riding it with the kit for about 3 years and no issues at all. I originally go it because being that I'm 6,2 220lbs I needed more grunt for when I pack a bunch of gear. She sounds gnarly too. I have never dynod the bike personally but If i remember correctly they estimate about a %60 power gain. Seems like i remember around 35hp stock then around 55hp with kit. You'll have to mess with the jetting obviously as well as I would suggest airbox mod. Definitely glad I did it. Way more power then the KLR or XR are capable of.
I own a second hand 2008 DR, like it lots! I've done over 10,000km in 2+1/2years, mostly with my woman happily on the back.. We get to see many local sights in South Australia (& some bakeries), mainly Fleurieu & Hills regions.. Have ridden better roads with others to, DR's , Suzi Bandit 1250, Yam R6 & Kawa Ninja 600 etc.. Yes they're faster but I'm not too slow... I find it mostly very good, but could be louder, have better wind deflector, tank maybe 15-18 litres, comfier seat.. All is OK generally, as we stop and perhaps get off every 30-50 mins anyway.. A very good all round bike, yes! I'm not into tricks, just happy to stay upright and cruising with occasional grunty acceleration.. It flows through sweeping bends quite nicely to..
My 1st bike was a KLR. Several street bikes after that. I retired and bought a 2021 DR. I am enjoying it and love how simple it is. Nice review. People have to ride one to understand.
I like the video. I agree that folks go crazy with mods and some are maybe stretching farther than their abilities. Also, everyone in Australia just wheelies these things from Melbourne to Sydney. The DR is rock solid and pure dependability. One criticism, if I may, get some gear. Just a leather jacket with some basic internal armor would be better than nothing. That hoodie can be thrown in a tank bag and put on once you get there. Not harping on it, just been there.
Thanks for the kind words! And You have confirmed what I believed in my heart about Australians only riding these on the rear wheel. I actually was wearing a armoured jacket for mostly all the shots. Except the last shots in the city .. but that’s not actually me riding, that was my stunt man, Jason.
Take the cover off the seat, remove the foam, drill holes from the bottom into the foam about 2" apart using a router or large bit to a depth about 1/4" or 1/2" from going through the top of the foam, you don't want the holes to go through the top as the thin cover material will show the holes and you'll have to use foam scrim to hide them if they bother you. Reattach cover with staple gun.
Well it's obvious that you aren't at least a class A motocross rider or work for a dirt bike magazine or even a major aftermarket company. Your just a normal person that rides motorcycles. Nice concept. Wish there were more of you doing bike reviews. Thanks.
I think you're video has made it and convinced me to buy one myself. I have looked into all the other options out there too, but the DR650 just looks like it'll suit my needs and skills best as a first to own. Love you're production and story telling loads, man! Thanks!
We have 2x Dr650 and RE Himalayan and we do tours in Colombia {south America). I started with Ktm790 adventure R but when you are traveling the world's most remote places you want to go with a reliable bike. The ktm failed on us many times. The DR Is my favorite bike, it's super oké in everything and I trust it to bring me home and if not it's fixable even in the smallest towns in this part of the world. No its not a beautiful bike but that's not the point of an adventure right?!
Bought one (2014 model) for work and back, I never touched my car again, actually sold my car and bought a beautiful 2007 DL650 v-strom for touring, the DR650 is my daily favourite and is 100% bulletproof
@@209DaddyMack i got the 2012 xr650l. I love everything about it apart from the small tank. Much much more dirt orientated than the KLR. Havent had it long enough to convincingly say i like it more than my 2007 KLR (which i should never have sold!)
Fantastic vid; totally enjoyed watching it and the sly humor you injected. The fact the Bush Pig *hasn't* changed in 20+ years means everybody knows, or can easily know, its pitfalls and how to make the bike "right"; it is a constant, a known entity ...sorta like gravity. And making it "right" means making the big DR fit *your* idea of right. Outside of a VW air-cooled Beetle, I don't think there is any vehicle made that has the wealth of aftermarket parts you can score to personalize the DR650. The simplicity of the bike is its attraction. There is no ABS, no fuel injection, no computers. The engine works on the same principles as your lawn mower engine; if you are educated in "carburetor", you've got it licked. I bought my 2012 DR just because I knew I could fix it when (not if) I broke something. I could add enough "bling" to suit me and make it *my* DR650. Seat ergos can be dealt with by a pair of foot peg lowering brackets; just to lower or to lower and move back. The seat height can be lowered; the factory rear suspension link has two bolt positions. The front shocks have an internal spacer you swap positions. The owners manual, I think, shows how to do it. If not, an aftermarket shop manual will show you.
Couldn’t agree more! It’s nice investing into a system that has already been broken and tested in every way that anyone could break or test something. Definitely know what to expect
Dude I would just like to say you have great content. My dad has a dr650 and he likes it a lot I ride a xrl 250 which is alot of fun off the road the xrls are amazing off-road bikes but the Dr keeps up pretty well with less suspension. They are both solid bikes and the way to go in my opinion.
Hey. Nice video approach. Good storytelling. I agree that the bike doesn't evolve much since its beggining but there is an aftermarket for that problem. I don't know why people are expecting confort on the offroad side of the bike. I like to ride my DR 650 with the small inperfections it has. Thanks for sharing. (Sorry for my bad english)
Thanks! And your English is great. I didn’t notice it at all. I agree mostly with the small imperfection comment. It does add to the charge. Except for the seat haha, I like to be able to sit on the bike for a long time
Extremely well crafted video with very thoughtful commentary. Thank you. I’ve owned the 250L, WR250, DRZ400, EXF250, T7, and now I am considering the venerable DR650. My reason … I can’t change the road so I change bike. :)
Great concept.. and video. The question of how this bike exists with no evolution after all these years was ironically one of the most exciting reasons for me to buy it. I knew I would put my own work into it either way, to customize and mold it into the perfect personal fit. I bought mine new in 2016. It was half the price of most of the other bikes at the shop, and it was the easiest to work on. I learned a lot about working on bikes, as it was my first bike I've owned, and the parts are relatively cheap as well. Buying a NEW bike with a design from the 90's has allowed me to enjoy a NEW bike with old technology. I personally like it, just because. I like the simplicity and the raw unfiltered way the mechanics work. For what I use the DR for, it gets the job done A+. Cheers and thanks for sharing this video.
Thanks for the kind words. That’s awesome! I definitely feel you on that one, it feels a lot like riding some of the 80’s bikes I’ve owned but just way more like sturdy and new. It’s a really neat experience. Glad you enjoyed the review, definitely got some more DR content planned!
It truly is a blank canvas. After lots of mods, I pretty much have mine where I want it. I can't see me selling it.
@@rangeroadmoto Definitely!
@@kentuckyjustice1408 It really is a blank canvas.
@@kentuckyjustice1408 "19-3" !!!!!!!!!
It's a tractor. It's a draft horse. It will go anywhere, you can drop it 20 times a day (I do) and it will just keep going. PS I am in Australia. This is the bike Australians ride. It's like a massive 4 stroke kangaroo.
I like that: “ a 4 stroke kangaroo”
@@hendrygareth put a Dunlop 606 on the back and a Pirelli m21 on the front and she won't let you down great choice in motorcycle's, also remove the small wheel that's above the chain its blue and on the frame rail, then fit a button head alan key bolt to keep the dirt out of the frame, this little wheel will brake off damaging the frame, but fixed easily by removing it before this happens.
Like your review just bought my first NEW one today I live in northern Minnesota and I WILL be riding it thanksgiving day 2021 and yes I'm an oddball that will keep it forever... Like everything else I buy!
You might enjoy this feature length Film on what it is like to ride a motorcycle around Australia. th-cam.com/video/ep0gmY1d85s/w-d-xo.html
Suzuki #1 period. -Ohio 🇺🇸
Dude, coming across this video was like finding 20 bucks in a jacket pocket. You earned the hell out of this subscribe!
Man, that's the nicest thing. Thanks for your kind words!
Allow me to wish my reader to experience more found cash.
Maybe as I did parking my DR-650 in a parking lot. Beside a
tape-sealed cardboard box. Stamped on all sides with red
ink reading: " ARMOR CAR COMPANY ". Google located
their regional office, I reported my discovery to that firm
by telephone. I was told they were just too busy to come
collect their lost property. I was told, "Feel free to keep
the box; have a nice day." Leaving me looking down at a
brown colored heavy carry item.
My second comment on this great post. My first said I’d buy a DR tomorrow, and I did. 30 years of increasing complexity disappeared the moment I rode out of the showroom. I was back in the late 80’s and on my dream bike of the time that I couldn’t afford back then, with massive grin on my wrinkled face. It’s speed and power (😉) are now perfectly matched to my slowing reflexes and relaxed riding style, and the total absence of “technology” is another perfect match to my competencies. Even though I’m 6ft and roughly the shape of a 44gal drum, it’s gets me where I want to go, at the speed I want to get there. On road and off. Yup, it’ll get new springs and seat better suited to an “above average weight” rider, and tyres that suit my situation. Long live the DR!
Regrettably sold my 2010 dr650 for a road bike. I used it nearly every day for commuting and going bush. Cruised easily at 110km or all day trail riding, took short cuts to get home. Mods were cheap and easy. Cannot fault it for what it was designed for. Actually while typing this I've decided to get a 2020, I wont tell the wife though.
Every time i try to change my 2009 DR, just cant find worthy alternative. 5 seasons together) Hi from Russia
Lol true story
You will also regret selling your golf clubs every time as well as old guns often madd better than new ones like my old marlin lever action model 93. It was made in eaely early early 1920s likely and it doesnt even have a saftey. Them fellas understood freedom back in the day. They didnt have computer chips to shut their car down and this bike is literally the opposite of that. This bike will run fine if the emp hits 😂😂😂 and long after hope they never stop making it keeping it just like this. Like .22 long rifle its been the same since the 1800s so therrs a huge supply of ammo
I bought 2 x DR650SE’s new many years ago, one for me and one for my beautiful French girlfriend... the girl left 2 years later but the bikes have stayed with me... I left Australia to live in West Africa, now based in Dakar... the bikes turned out a much better choice than the woman.. they came with me and never complain and just keep on going. I love 💕 my DR... :-)
That is one of my most favourite comments ever. How do you like living in Dakar ?
This is the way all motorcycle info videos should be.
Great video. I have owned 5 DRs since 1984 and just love their simplicity, reliability and indestructibility. The early ones were stock but in later years have been TRICKED UP. My current 2021 DR was purchased a couple of months ago and is fully setup up now with the following -
*Acerbis 20 litre tank
* Pro Taper Bars + risers
*Barkbusters
*Power socket for mobile
* Neoprene grips
*B & B Bashplate
* Centrestand
* Peg lowering
* YSS SUSPENSION
* Barrett Pannier racks
* NIII Luggage Rack
* Tinted Screen
* H4 globe in headlight
* Concept Seat
* Carby jetting upgrade
The bike goes like a dream and easily handles my 115kg x 6 foot 4 frame.
Looking forward to plenty more riding on the ULTIMATE ADVENTURE BIKE.
Spend the money and have some serious fun.
Cheers from Australia
That sounds like a sweet bike! I just released a video to the upgrades I did on mine. Cheers from Canada
Excellent! My first DR was an '84 model also, a little DR125. Then I had an '85 DR250, it was nice! Later I had a '91 DR350, also great bike! Then in '05 I got my first DR650 and absolutely loved it! I just sold it last year (it was getting old and tired) and replaced it with a brand new white '21 model. Perfect! The DR's have always been my favorite bikes and the DR650 is without a doubt my favorite bike of all time!
Thank you for making this video! I just bought a new 2019 at the beginning of 2020. I wanted a proven dual sport bike simply to enjoy some prairie roads and some easy trail riding. The only mods I made are; Seat Concepts seat, Acerbis 5.3gal tank, rear rack, skid plate and Bark-Busters. I’m not planing to do anything else..so far it’s perfect for the riding I intend to do!
Sounds great, got the 2020 coming but also adding heated grips and center stand, would not go with out the larger Acerbis 5.3 gal tank and skid plate and better hand guards. This will be my second DR 650 and also had the DR 600 years ago. To me that is what riding is all about go any where and not having to stop for gas. Love the smile they put on my face every time I ride them.
I have a 2019 DR and before I even took it from the dealer I upgraded a few things...Bark busters to the bars, skid plate, FMF exhaust, Jet kit & air box mod. , progressive springs added to the front forks along with Cogent adjusters for better control of forks in rough terrain, dropped one tooth on the front sprocket, did the tail light & license plate bracket replacement, Seat Concepts seat , new tires for off road and on road traction. Now this bike will hang with most any dual sport bike in it's class!
I went the other way than most. I first owned much more powerful dual sports before settling on the DR650 . The DR650 is just magical to me. A living dinosaur in the modern era of high tech motorcycles and it'll go anywhere you want, any time. I discovered my love of adventure on the DR. Hopefully we still have many years ahead of us before the DR succumbs to emissions regulations but mark my words when the last year of production rolls round I will be there at the dealership, cash in hand waiting to get one more of these gems into my garage.
I just bought a 2016 with 785 miles on the odometer. So stoked...I am 70 yrs old and feel like I'm 18.
Yeah hopefully bikes like these are safe for a while. From what I understand they are grandfathered in, which is also probably why they can’t make any changes.. not evening fixing the NSU switch. Haha but it’s good for us that they are still around!
Thanks for watching
Ban descriminatory emissions regulations. Thus thing is a gas sipper it doesnt need regulations
DR650 is a fantastic platform, great at nothing but good at many things. Better on highway than the light enduros, better offroad than KLRs and ADV bikes. Simple, pure motorcycling fun...puts a smile on my face.
I bought mine with bigger tank and carb, with a seat concepts seat. I raised the bars, lowered the pegs and added a stiffer rear spring. I'm very happy...even with basically stock suspension...rides smooth at my relaxed riding pace.
Luckily my used 2013 came with upgraded tires. All I had to do was get the lowered foot pegs from Pro-cycle. They made a huge difference. For me the seat is tolerable and fuel is generally close. I'm so happy with my bike. Great video, enjoy the ride.
This is the best quality content I’ve seen for a bike review
Thanks man! That’s super nice of you to say.
This the most affordable and middle of the road vanilla duel sport every made with a lowered seat height.
Very cheap and affordable parts almost bomb proof with tons of upgrade available.
Can you tell I love my DR650.
BTW when the Aussie’s love the bike you can understand that this is an incredible bike considering it is many miles to help for those guys.
“Vanilla dual sport” I like that.
Yeah that’s a good point! Reliability is important if you’re in remote parts of the world
Great video my friend. After riding sportbikes for 26yrs (& I still do) I also have recently purchased a 2014 DR650. Ive always wanted one. Just never pulled the trigger. Well finally I did & with absolutely no regrets. On & offroad it is a pleasure to ride. I did though install D606 tires, exhaust & other various mods already. But I love it. People said Id hate it. Due to stepping off 191rw hp sportbike to an DR650 on my first test ride. But I smiled ear to ear the whole time. Maybe due to the simplicity of it. How things slowed down & to be able to get away from asphalt. To explore & experience more freedom. What ever it is I look forward to this new chapter in my life. And my DR will lead the way
I feel the same way, something really enjoyable about being able to use all the horsepower you have most of the time without getting in trouble. I actually just put d606 on the bike too! So much better off road and still pretty well behaved on road.
The DR has a charm about it, it’s kinda contagious.
can't go wrong with a DR 650 love them and great for the twesties as well as off road, just need a bigger gas tank and better tires.
I have a 2010 I got NEW. 46,000 Miles later it’s been the most reliable Most overall enjoyable bike I’ve ever owned. Few mods and getting the suspension dialed in for me (6’ 250lbs) and it perfect. I’ll Never sell it!! If one day it dies. I’ll simply rebuild the Motor
I had one of these. Sold it at 56,900kms. I have had more bikes than I can remember but the DR650 is the one I wish I still had
Amazing production my friend, this deserves hundreds of thousands of views!!
Man thanks so much!
I've owned 3 DR650's. This review was the best ever.
My first bike was an 86' vf500, then a 2006 bandit 1200, now a 2001 DR650.. The DR is by far my favorite. Great bike for around town, super easy to work on, and quite capable on trips on and off-road. So far I have just done some DIY mods, windscreen, skid plate, mounted some ebay LEDs. I haven't touched the carb since I got it and first cleaned it out. I am just waiting till I have to clean it so I have an excuse to get new jets and full exhaust.
You and I, and I are sure everyone else is very like-minded. Great video
Thanks! Yeah the very little amount of work I have done on the dr has proved to me that it is very simple and straight forward. So far no weird custom tools or computers. Just simple simple. I love it
Been riding since I was 10 I’m almost 70 now . Bought my first dr350 in 94. Great bike. Hauled it all over the country behind my RV. Other bikes too many. Up to a Gl1800 Goldwing. Yep I had to go back to the DR BUT this one is a 650se . Got it really cheep 25 miles on it. So! I could do anything I wanted to with it. Unleash the beast! . Jell seat first! Then tm40 pumper powerbomb header high a booze a 1300 muffler Procycle mid pipe. Good tires arbas 6 gallon fuel tank skid plate. Protaper handlebars. Kevlar clutch..note with stock gearing its to fast for tight trails dropped the front sprocket to 14. Didn’t really notice loss in top speed I don’t really ride 100 mph. The carburetor made a huge difference! Well what next? Guess the next guy can do the supp. Because getting older I have gone to a side by side. The DR650Se is sitting in my garage. Humm do I want to sell it? .........................not really I might get younger!
You know man, I've put countless hours on researching bikes, watching videos being completely unsure of what I want and being incredibly indecisive. Thats just the way I am by nature but this video just sold me. Thank you, also the cinematography is kino
I know the feel! Hope you’re happy with it man. I’m 6 months and still have a blast on it
This bike has been the exact same machine since 1996. It's cheap, reliable, and the aftermarket for it is huge. You can make it into whatever you want it to be: More of a dirtbike, a motard, or a long-distance adventure bike. Just google Procycle, check you bank balance, and make it what you want.
hahah thats so true, I feel like there are so many different options of places lined up to take my money when it comes to the DR. I've never owned a bike with so much aftermarket support.
Planning on buying one tomorrow with 6k miles
Are they reliable?
@@alexguev3251 Yes.
you can mod it to be exactly how you want it, and still have spent less than a new KTM
I agree with you, I bought a 2020 dr650 and it is a very good machine in stock form for it's intended consumer, which is like me, it's super reliable, will virtually do anything even though it isn't great at any one thing, it is very inexpensive to buy even new, very inexpensive to maintain, easy to make improvements or modifications that one may deem necessary, but if your like me and your kind of old and fat and don't care about ripping through a single track or motor cross track like Eli Tomac or going 150 mph on the interstate then it will absolutely do everything you want it do in stock form, and keep the dr650 videos coming, you are a high quality youtuber
The DR 650 is still the best bike I have owned in 40 years of riding on the road, not the most exciting but just does what it does without all the bells and whistles with the bonus it can go just about anywhere you point the front wheel.
I don’t have the riding ability of Toby Price or Marc Marquez so I don’t need a big horsepower cod piece to brag about, I like to enjoy the ride and look at the world go by not trying to carve the perfect line around the next corner or hit warp factor on the next straight bit of road.
The DR lets me capture the essence of motorcycling that is missing from many new bikes, the thing that made Triumph, BSA and the like so great back in the day, just reliably.
Great bike for adventure. I road mine 3,500klms (with some 900 klm days) around the east coast of Australia in 2019. Totally stock except a aftermarket seat. Awesome trip....Never selling mine.
Well done video. I have a 17 model with minimal mods . I have several other bikes and have no intentions of selling this one. I live in Idaho and have put 5.000 miles a year on this bike. 0 problems! Lot's of fun. From 500 mile days into Montana to the Mexican border it's never let me down. There's a man on Cross Training Adventure/ TH-cam that did the exact opposite. He bought a new KTM 690 ,rode it a while , sold it and bought a DR , flogged it for 5 years and bought another new DR.. Usual upgrades and suspension mods. He loves the simplicity and fun factor. This guy's a real professional. He teaches scores of riders proper riding tecniques. He's no kid and still takes on all comers on his DR.
My last bike, my first was a moped and I rode that thing everywhere, of course I grew up, ( or so I thought) to bigger faster more tech involved bikes but always I miss the simplicity of simplicity getting on and riding all day for as long as the tank would let me. Now I have this, my DR 650 and once again going wherever, whenever. I am in love all over again, just like the first time I rode that little moped.
I almost didn't buy my Dr650 because a lot of the videos out there recommended to change a lot a little things here and there, I have a completely stock bike, and surprisingly it does very good off road for my ability, I think a lot of us will do just perfect on a stock form but, on the other hand, it's great bike to modify for more hard-core riders
Yeah I was in the same boat before I got mine. Definitely have had nothing but a blast with it on and off road
Nice video. Well done! I just bought a 2020 DR 650 in June. Love it. Sold my Africa Twin to get it. As big as a DR is, it feels like a 250 in comparison to the AT.
Wow that’s awesome, yeah I can totally imagine the DR would feel like a dirt bike. Actually I traded while off roading with my buddie on his f800gs and he said the DR felt like a dirtbike compared to his bike.
The Dr feels almost like a bicycle compared to the big adventure bikes
Suzuki rocks! Period. An FMF pipe on the bike adds 3hp & it revs more. Just a great motorcycle period.
I think one niche the DR can fill very well is that of a light weight ADV bike. I think the new T7 is sweet, but I like that the DR is well under 400 lb without doing anything to lighten it. It is the Jeep Wrangler of motorcycles (well, more reliable than a Wrangler): stock, not great off road, but loads of potential.
Fantastic review. Very entertaining and brilliantly done. Off to buy a DR tomorrow.
haha awesome! Hope you enjoyed it as much as i do
Wow, thanks
Me too! 94' model. Can't wait till tomorrow.
I had a 2011. Loved it but for the type of riding I started doing it was too big for much single track exploring. So I bought an XT250 which I also love for its light weight. Now that I’m over 60 and moved to Alberta there are so many gravel back roads to ride and I find the little XT with it little tank not quite adequate enough to get me to those back roads. How I wish I’d never sold my mighty DR with the the mods I had done. I can see another one being my next addition to the garage.
Been riding for 48 years. Owned 40 plus bikes over the years. Current bikes I ride are a KTM 250 XCW, KTM 450 EXC, Suzuki 650 V Strom and a DR 650. I've been riding my DR for 15 yrs and will never sell her. Your points were pretty much spot on. I like the stock seat, but I like my KTM stock seats also! Just have to do tires, skid plate, DRZ 250 taillight and metal handguards at first. The fork springs and Pro cycle carb kit with a fuel screw later. Best and most fun ADV bike you could ask for.
Wow that’s quite the collection of bikes you got! Thanks for the thoughts, I definitely do like it. Riding along side friends with newer enduro/dual sport bikes I can definitely see where it is lacking. But sometimes a lack is what gives something character and given time I’ll learn how to over come those areas.
Thanks for the comment and have fun riding all those bikes!
When DR owners say they want a bigger gas tank, I tell them "you'll run out of gas before that tank does".
A phrase often read about the DR 650 SE is "blank canvas", cause you can turn it into anything you want: city commuter, tourer, supermoto, RTW-bike. Up to the DR I had owned various KTMs (Rotax, EXC), Triumphs and Suzukis, usually changing them to my liking and selling them after 3-4 years. Sales of DRs were stopped in Austria in 2000 and I bought mine (a 96 of the fist year, with purple frame and seat) in 2010, bone stock and with only 7.891 kms on the clock. I still got her, while second bikes came and went again. The DR is a keeper. Mine features the entire WP48 front of a Husaberg, a DIY modified stock shock, the Keihin flatslide of a KTM 450, an IMS tank, lowered peg-mounts with wider pegs, raised KTM-bar (I´m 183 cm with long legs and arms) and - amongst a lot of other parts - a Suzuki GSX-R1000 K1 muffler. She still got the stock piston, the first clutch and has a whopping 40 hp at the rear wheel on a good day. She will unlikely overwhelm you, but riding a slow bike fast is so much more fun than feeling like a noob cause you ride a fast bike slowly. And if she requires more than a well-equipped toolkit something REALLY must be very wrong - that thing is an anvil. When I feel adventourus I take my 2nd wheelset with real knobbies and after 20 minutes got a more than capable offroad-bike without the frequent servicing needs of an EXC. Then I come home and after 20 minutes my daily steed is ready for the next day. I now own my DR for 12 years, the bike itself is 26 and I intend to keep her as long as I am able to swing my leg over her seat.
Love my 2011, although she has been heavily modified. She has taken me to many countries and far away places. My most popular video is a walk around of the mods done to mine while stuck in Lima Peru.
Very well done video here. Great job
I’ll check that out! And thanks for watching
I have a 2020 DR 650. Larger seat and fuel tank, cargo bags. I also went with more dirt worthy tires, (i was trying for a cross country adventure bike).
Why I bought it.
It weighs less than some 400cc bikes. I like the lower seat height. It is rock solid reliable. Even with the added accessories, it is still dirt cheap. Low maintenance compared to KTM.
Nice, Congratulations! That’s awesome. Which tires did you go with ?
I have seen a thousand DR review videos and often somebody thinks they are doing something new. I think your video should be onnthe watch list for anyone considering a DR, honest and straight to the real points.
I won't read all the comments because they will either agree with me or be haters.lol
For $1500 cad for can do full Cogent upgrades (Cogent Mojave rear with new spring for your weight, cogent dcc and new springs uo front with fork fluid change, A/M seat, and JD or procycle Jet kit, bash plate and case Armour, handgaurds) bike is done and a huge improvement. I have a 1992 with 100,000 miles plus and a 2018 with 23500km in first year and love them, will always own at least one but going to sell one now because I have a wr250r for single track rides. Enjoy the bike it won't let you down.
Man thank so much! That’s really really nice to hear. I’ve been collecting parts I’ve been able to find used and some new. Have a procycle exhaust for go on the bike, new d606 tires, seat concepts seat, lowering pegs, jet kit, new intake all that typical power stuff, skid plate. Most of the things I want to do this year aside from suspension which I will probably tackle next year. Do you know roughly what it cost you to do the front and rear ?
@@rangeroadmoto $900CAD for new rear and spring, and springs, oil and ddc's for the forks.
Sold my DR 650 to get another bike, still regret it. Had installed a custom seat and an easy removable windscreen. It was a great bike for the highway or off road and I had got a great deal for it!
Great vid. Some nice shots. Well cut. Well written. Going to do something similar myself soon. I looked at a second-hand low kms DR650, back-to-back with an ex-demo Himalayan. I bought the DR. - Same price, better suspension, better brakes, more power, more durable, more parts around, better resale. This DR650 is my second one. My last one was in the shed next to my Aprillia RSV mille R. 9 times out of 10 I chose to ride the DR. It just made me smile. At the end of the day, it isn't about having a flash bike. It is about what you can do on that bike and the memories you can make on it.
After 1 year of riding, the DR is the only bike I want. In fact, I bought a 2nd, then realized I like my 7 year bike as much as my new one. So I sold the new one. :)
To date (December 23, 2021) I've had the following bikes, in order : 2001 Yamaha V-Star 650, 2007 Harley Davidson Streetbob, 2013 Suzuki GSXR 750, 2014 Kawasaki ZX10r, 2016 Suzuki DRZ400sm, 2016 Kawasaki Z800, 2019 KTM 690 SMCR, and a 2021 Kawasaki ZX10r
I really, REALLY, miss my KTM, but I couldn't deal with the dealerships around here over a warranty issue, they tried to screw me over, blah blah. So I got rid of it and got back on a super sport, the 2021 zx10r. But I miss the supermoto/dual sport bikes, so I've been trying to find something, and I got to looking online for reviews and came across this video.
Well done sir, you earned my subscription. Watching this and hearing your opinions and how well you presented everything has moved me closer to pulling the trigger on a 2022 DR650s
Have you done any carb mods to this bike since you got it?
Hey Zander! That’s a pretty awesome bike history! I love the 690 too, but I’ve only ridden the 690 Enduro R. Such a fun bike.
I did a bunch of upgrades, if you check the channel there will be a “dr650 upgrades” video. There you’ll see I did the basic upgrades on the stock carb.
This video was like you were reading my mind researching bikes for 1 year.
Same! But they dont sell these in Europe :(
Do they have any Dr models in Europe?
@@rangeroadmoto I think the last ones are from 2008 on second hand. On top of that, bikes older than 2003 are forbidden to enter Barcelona city (where I live). What once was a motorcycle heaven, they are now turning it into motorcycle hell....
clako clakson oh that’s interesting to know .. I’ve heard of other cities banning motorcycles as well. That’s a sad thing
@@clakoclakson I have one dr 650 ftom 1996. I ride it every day in florence italy. I made many travel around europe. I have been in barcelona two times (in 1998 and in 2004). I made 300.000 km on it. It fits me perfectly. It's thee only bike I can ride
I have ridden a lot of bikes and have a few extra that don't get ridden as often after I got a DR. It is truly a fun motorcycle to ride and super easy for anyone to modify.
Couldn’t agree more
I bought mine almost 10 years ago, it's a 93 so it's got a real seat, kick start and it was owned by cycle mechanic. He did some head, carb work when he rebuilt it and it's a completely different bike than my brother's 2013 DR. It's also got a 6.5 gallon tank so I rarely worry about fuel, I added LEDs all around did some suspension work, fabbed real bark bars and I ride it to work everyday 120 mile round trip during the spring/summer and off road as much as I can. It's never left me stranded and I wouldn't trade it for a brand new KTM.
iv got a dr 650 a white one it came new . since owning it iv put on a sergent seat now i can ride it all day . plus bash plate .. bark busters .. wind screen .. and a back luggage rack ..its a 2019 modle .and only just ran in . your right about them tyers but .. they dont call them death wings for nothing a.. but tyers are an easy fix ..all in all as im a novis ,this bike is the perfect bike for me . they are all over the world , so no matter where one is you will all ways keep going
That’s awesome, I do love this bike. I would have taken a white one if I found one as cheap as mine. Which windshield did you go with?
That’s awesome! I love the white ones, and the grey ones... the black one was cheap haha. Which windshield did you go with?
The service interval for the DR also make it desirable over a KTM/husky. Trading in power for more reliability and less maintenance, while still having more than enough power to get you in trouble on and off road is definitely a worthwhile trade IMO.
The simplicity is a big deal for me too. Especially with how simple the bike is to work on. I’ve had to do a few things since owning it (more of that in next video) and everything has been straight forward.
Isn't that the truth! I'll take the reliability and less maintenance any day, over a KTM, which is honestly nothing but a money pit. Most guys I know who have KTM's can't ride them to their potential anyway, so it's a waste of money to buy one. My DR650 is 16 years old this year, I bought it new in '05, and it has NEVER needed a top end job yet, and it has nearly 60 thousand miles on it now.
It's not. Husk 10k miles 701.
The high performance machines need the same maintaining ... Frequent oil changes, clean the air filter once in a while or whenever needed, lube and adjust the chain and adjust the valves once in a blue moon.
@@leanlifter1 of course. But the more involved service on the DR such as valve adjustments, and top end rebuilds, and also oil changes are spread out over a much larger interval than high performance machines. They're measured in thousands of miles as opposed to hours.
I've had dang near everything from Honda metros to top line Ducatis. I'm down to 0 bikes now post retirement and I'm buying another DR650 as my sole 2 wheel option. They are simply... fun (I do wish the tank was bigger though). See ya out there.
I drive my fathers old '93 DR. It is my first and so far only Motorcycle that I have driven after getting my license. Sadly there are no real offroad trails that I can ride in Germany, but still have offroad tires on it. Everything else would just look ridiculous. I absolutely love it and I am not sure about what to buy if it ever breaks down completely, but I am sure I will drive it as long as it doesn't. They stopped selling the DR in the EU in 2003.
I use it to commute once in a while (even during Winter) and when I visit my parents. I am planning to do some trips through Norway in the future.
I've got a 2018 dr200 and it's the same story for this bike too. No updates but very reliable. I'm looking at getting a drz 400 or a dr650 and not quite sure yet... Love the reliability of the ole Suzuki's
If you do any amount of road riding go with the DR 650. the DRZ is a great bike for off road but not good for any amount of time on the highway or back roads. But if you do 80 % or more off road the DRZ 400 would be the way to go. They are bough equal in town, but Highway or long distance back roads you will be glad to have the DR 650.
That intro- the music- the camera work. You get a subcribe. *applauds.
Thankkk you! That’s nice of you to say
I love this bike just as it is. Please dont change it Suzuki
I don’t think they will. Probably will discontinue like the KLR before long
If anything they'd make it aircooled-a drz650
I own a DR650 and a KTM 690. What can I say, I couldn't choose! I also own a Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa, but that's a totally different bike. All of them are 10/10.
Which one you find yourself riding the most?
@@rangeroadmoto At the moment my KTM just because it's the newest and I'm still breaking it in. Hard to say what will happen long-term since I love them all for different reasons!
Beautiful video.
I am a new DR owner myself, and I agreed with everything you said. The trail wings i found alright until any mud or sand crossed you path. That said, I dont believe I ever lost the front, it was always the back going slideways on me.
I hope I can find a pair of used rims so that I could keep my TWs as more street/trip oriented tire, and regularly run the classic 606/mt21 combo for local trail bombing.
I think you're right, unless you are a very experienced dirt rider, the DR with some decent tires will be more capable than you.
Thumbs up for the Alberta scenery, makes me a bit home sick.
Thanks man! Yeah I’ve moved to the d606’s and it’s a big improvement
Best motorcycle ever made.
Xr400r.
Mt09
04-05 zx10r
Kawasaki meanstreak
Ktm 950 990 1190
LoL naw
Best motorcycle ever made .. for you.
@@queenslander954 Yes :) And at least 2 other men I ride with :)
Jon Mathews 🤣😂😩
Yep, we're not all Dakar racers. Pick the bike that puts a smile on your face without putting you in the poor house. Excellent video. You're subs will no doubt grow exponentially if you keep up this quality content. From Australia.
your channel is painfully overlooked, fantastic video
Man that’s really nice to hear! Thanks for the kind worlds.
I love your review. I have a 2019 Dr650 myself and I love it!
man thanks so much! That’s awesome, have you done anything to it?
Have had several dual sports. mis a great bike for the money. Add Seat Concepts perch, gear down a touch, and aftermarket exhaust. Splendid. Never a reason to update since newer dr650s are the same machine; nothing wrong with that. When highway is my focus I jump on my Africa Twin. Best of both worlds.
Awesome review. Nailed it on all subjects. I have a 93 dr650, before they changed to the current unchanged run. Love mine, electric start would be nice tho!
That is cool! I love the old colours, they are so fun. My buddy is actually picking up a Dr600 this week and I am stoked to compare it and see whats its like. Possibly making a video about that too
@@rangeroadmoto The original 600s were great in my opinion especially the Dakar model .
Entertaining video. The other day I jokingly referred to my CRF250L as the worlds best adventure bike. Out came a very upset DR rider telling me it isn't. As you say very loyal.
You need to watch some of my stuff. I do not agree with all of the "dislike" comments - but you have no idea of how good of a bike you have chosen. It is a blank canvas. Depending on the kind of riding you'll mainly be doing - you can do nothing - and you can also modify it - making it totally unique - like no other - and every where in between. I'm 59 - been riding since I was 5 - it is bar none, the best bike I have ever owned.....
I just went and checked out channel only to realize i've already watched a bunch of your videos haha. Thanks for putting those up!
Yamaha t7 is the new DR 650
I have a 2022, the seat needed to go immediately, the chain rollers needed to go immediately, the front fork needed a brace immediately, the rear spring had to be adjusted to full tightness immediately, the bike needed to be lowered immediately, the tank... I'm probably gonna go 5 gallon Acerbis tank, the carb needed to have it's mixture screw turned out and needle shimmed up immediately. Other than that it's a rock solid simple bike and real fun to ride.
Getting a good offer on one of these with low milage. I want an all-around bike that can take me from the highway to the dirt roads. And thanks to you, im convinced. Here's your sub mate! Thank you!
I rode a Yamaha XT 600 E (2001) for 20 years. Mostly stock. Seat also hard. Modded it. Worked out great. Did well on the highway up to 140 km/h for what it was (then it got REALLY wobbly). Bike is still not really dead, but serves as parts donator for my husband's bike (he has the identical one, his carburator broke). Think the XT is very comparable to the DR650. Did okay on everything, was not particularly good on anything. Great communter though.
Yeah that sounds about spot on ! I’ve ridden a xt600 once. Very familiar feeling
Thanks for this video. Largely because of this I went out and bought a DR650 as my first bike and it has been great.
Man thats awesome! I wish my first bike was a DR haha. It’ would be such a good first bike. (Nice subie by the way)
The DR650 is the AK47 of the bike world!
It does a handful of things ok but no one thing great! Kinda easy to mod but only to a point, but super reliable and extremely user friendly.
Got a DR650 in 2001, it's now 2022 and it's still kicking ass! Love it!
That is a perfect way to describe it!
Best Dr review on youtube- and yes i am Australian!!
Hahah then you’re opinion must be correct! Thanks though that’s super nice to hear !
Great video that teaches you to listen to peoples point of view,but to decide for yourself!
Thanks! And that is very true
I would love to have a Dr650 and if I were to get one then I'd be more than happy to leave it stock. I like the style of the exhaust, mirrors I could change out, turn signals and and brake lights I could change and the headlight I would completely swap it out instead of having the box lens. There's many of mods id do to it but really just having one would make my day
This was the perfect video to find. Thank you for making it. I've been contemplating one but never even thrown a leg over one or been around one for that matter. I'm in that watching every video I can find mode and yes, it makes you scratch your head a bit. Hope to see you share more of your experience with it.
I’m glad that it helped! Hopefully you can find one to throw a leg over and take for a rip. And there will definitely be some more videos coming at some point 👍. Thanks for watching
Fantastic video. Super high production quality. You smooth talked me out of buying a DR650. I've owned 3 KLR's in the past and won't buy another for the same reason you mentioned about the DR. No updates since the stone age. Looks like I'm going back down to the KTM dealer again.
Thanks man! And I’m glad I could talk to you of it? Haha. But yeah if it’s advanced modern stuff you’re looking for it won’t feel any different than your KLR
woah. I usually don't comment on videos but I cannot let your hard work go unnoticed. This is a work of art my friend, keep it up!
Hey man thanks for the kind words! That means a lot.
Great video. Not much info on the stock DR , you nailed it. Thanks.
Thanks man! I noticed that too, I figured I could get some info out there that I was having a hard time finding before I bought mine.
Had a 2005 DR I bought new. I did minimal mods: barkbusters, bar risers and decent handlebars, bashplate, an RM front mudguard, HDtubes and decent tyres, some handmade pannier bars and a handmade canvas pair of throw over panniers. I adjusted the rear suspension as best I could, put heavier oil in the forks. I rode that bike on roads, camping tours, heaps of group rides in the bush, heaps of solo in the bush, snow, sand, difficult hills, water crossings that frightened me - just heaps of stuff.
I did well, flogged the shit out of it, learnt heaps, built confidence and learnt to push the bike reasonably hard. Sold it, and the new owner fell in love with it first ride.
Hail the might bush pig.
What did you buy to replace it?
@@rangeroadmoto went without for a good while - currently using a DRZ250
That’s cool, don’t see many of those around.
Great review.
I was on the fence as well between the KLR, XR,and DR650. My Goal was adventure riding and everything in between.
I settled on the DR650 for a few large reasons. It's a true 50/50 with the ability to higher in either category from the factory. There's a Big Bore kit available for the DR that will give you more power then the other two could ever get , making it better on and off road without losing the chug factor. Dirt simple mechanics, easy to fix on trail.
If i wasn't gonna do much to the bike and left it mostly stock I would have gone KLR because the seat on the DR is that bad and the KLR is more towards comfort in stock form.
Seriously though after replacing the seat the Big Bore Kit is amazing.
You did the 790 kit in your bike? Is it like a completely different power level now?
I did the cam and Big Bore kit. Way better throttle response, very snappy. Quite a bit more torque/pwr throughout. The higher amount of torque also allows you do go up on your sprocket without losing low end. Bought mine from procycle in Eugene,Or. I don't live to far from there I've been riding it with the kit for about 3 years and no issues at all. I originally go it because being that I'm 6,2 220lbs I needed more grunt for when I pack a bunch of gear. She sounds gnarly too. I have never dynod the bike personally but If i remember correctly they estimate about a %60 power gain. Seems like i remember around 35hp stock then around 55hp with kit. You'll have to mess with the jetting obviously as well as I would suggest airbox mod. Definitely glad I did it. Way more power then the KLR or XR are capable of.
I own a second hand 2008 DR, like it lots! I've done over 10,000km in 2+1/2years, mostly with my woman happily on the back.. We get to see many local sights in South Australia (& some bakeries), mainly Fleurieu & Hills regions..
Have ridden better roads with others to, DR's , Suzi Bandit 1250, Yam R6 & Kawa Ninja 600 etc.. Yes they're faster but I'm not too slow...
I find it mostly very good, but could be louder, have better wind deflector, tank maybe 15-18 litres, comfier seat.. All is OK generally, as we stop and perhaps get off every 30-50 mins anyway.. A very good all round bike, yes!
I'm not into tricks, just happy to stay upright and cruising with occasional grunty acceleration.. It flows through sweeping bends quite nicely to..
My 1st bike was a KLR. Several street bikes after that. I retired and bought a 2021 DR. I am enjoying it and love how simple it is. Nice review. People have to ride one to understand.
That’s definitely true! It’s about as simple as they come but does it all
I like the video. I agree that folks go crazy with mods and some are maybe stretching farther than their abilities. Also, everyone in Australia just wheelies these things from Melbourne to Sydney. The DR is rock solid and pure dependability. One criticism, if I may, get some gear. Just a leather jacket with some basic internal armor would be better than nothing. That hoodie can be thrown in a tank bag and put on once you get there. Not harping on it, just been there.
Thanks for the kind words! And You have confirmed what I believed in my heart about Australians only riding these on the rear wheel.
I actually was wearing a armoured jacket for mostly all the shots. Except the last shots in the city .. but that’s not actually me riding, that was my stunt man, Jason.
Take the cover off the seat, remove the foam, drill holes from the bottom into the foam about 2" apart using a router or large bit to a depth about 1/4" or 1/2" from going through the top of the foam, you don't want the holes to go through the top as the thin cover material will show the holes and you'll have to use foam scrim to hide them if they bother you. Reattach cover with staple gun.
Have a Suzi 2000 Freewind 650 (DR650 Motor) and absolutely love it, great on the high ways and awesome off road.
Is that the one with the ferring? We never got that in Canada
You must have put a lot of work into this video, good job man, i've 2 of these bikes and agree, im a keeper !!!!
Thanks! Yeah that took some time for sure.
That’s good to hear, so far I’m really happy with it!
Well it's obvious that you aren't at least a class A motocross rider or work for a dirt bike magazine or even a major aftermarket company. Your just a normal person that rides motorcycles. Nice concept. Wish there were more of you doing bike reviews. Thanks.
I can confirm, mostly a normal person 👍
I think you're video has made it and convinced me to buy one myself. I have looked into all the other options out there too, but the DR650 just looks like it'll suit my needs and skills best as a first to own. Love you're production and story telling loads, man! Thanks!
We have 2x Dr650 and RE Himalayan and we do tours in Colombia {south America). I started with Ktm790 adventure R but when you are traveling the world's most remote places you want to go with a reliable bike. The ktm failed on us many times. The DR Is my favorite bike, it's super oké in everything and I trust it to bring me home and if not it's fixable even in the smallest towns in this part of the world.
No its not a beautiful bike but that's not the point of an adventure right?!
Bought one (2014 model) for work and back, I never touched my car again, actually sold my car and bought a beautiful 2007 DL650 v-strom for touring, the DR650 is my daily favourite and is 100% bulletproof
Are you still carless? I wish I could do that where I live
Awesome production, man! And I totally agree on the bike. I've had the KLR and just got the XR... but I think the DR is the best of both combined!
That’s kinda what I always wondered but I haven’t ridden either. Good to hear it from someone who has owned both! Thanks man
Which Xr did you go with? I’m torn between this and the xr650L. And also which do you think is better?
@@209DaddyMack i got the 2012 xr650l. I love everything about it apart from the small tank. Much much more dirt orientated than the KLR. Havent had it long enough to convincingly say i like it more than my 2007 KLR (which i should never have sold!)
@@GreaseAndGravel thanks!
Awesome review, spot on!!
I've got 25k miles on my 2002, I love that thing.
Hey that’s awesome! One day mine will have that on it
Very enjoyable, well-produced video! I've got the more street-going XF650 version, and it's probably the most fun bike I've ever owned.
Fantastic vid; totally enjoyed watching it and the sly humor you injected. The fact the Bush Pig *hasn't* changed in 20+ years means everybody knows, or can easily know, its pitfalls and how to make the bike "right"; it is a constant, a known entity ...sorta like gravity. And making it "right" means making the big DR fit *your* idea of right. Outside of a VW air-cooled Beetle, I don't think there is any vehicle made that has the wealth of aftermarket parts you can score to personalize the DR650. The simplicity of the bike is its attraction. There is no ABS, no fuel injection, no computers. The engine works on the same principles as your lawn mower engine; if you are educated in "carburetor", you've got it licked. I bought my 2012 DR just because I knew I could fix it when (not if) I broke something. I could add enough "bling" to suit me and make it *my* DR650. Seat ergos can be dealt with by a pair of foot peg lowering brackets; just to lower or to lower and move back. The seat height can be lowered; the factory rear suspension link has two bolt positions. The front shocks have an internal spacer you swap positions. The owners manual, I think, shows how to do it. If not, an aftermarket shop manual will show you.
Couldn’t agree more! It’s nice investing into a system that has already been broken and tested in every way that anyone could break or test something. Definitely know what to expect
I have only had my DR for 3 months now, I freaking love it! Great vid! :)
Thats awesome man! I've had mine since May-ish, so not much longer. Its great.
@@rangeroadmoto if you would like to see my project DR check out th-cam.com/video/5jOuCY5AXnQ/w-d-xo.html
Dude I would just like to say you have great content. My dad has a dr650 and he likes it a lot I ride a xrl 250 which is alot of fun off the road the xrls are amazing off-road bikes but the Dr keeps up pretty well with less suspension. They are both solid bikes and the way to go in my opinion.
Hey thanks so much man! That’s awesome you and your did ride together off road. Sounds like a blast. Awesome your dad can keep up on the dr!
great reveiw thanks mate. i bought a new one the lst model they made brand new. it was 10300 here in australia. 2022. i love the old school look.
That’s awesome! Hope you have many many happy years riding the bike
The love in the video is palpable. I want to go riding!
Hey. Nice video approach. Good storytelling. I agree that the bike doesn't evolve much since its beggining but there is an aftermarket for that problem. I don't know why people are expecting confort on the offroad side of the bike. I like to ride my DR 650 with the small inperfections it has. Thanks for sharing. (Sorry for my bad english)
Thanks! And your English is great. I didn’t notice it at all. I agree mostly with the small imperfection comment. It does add to the charge. Except for the seat haha, I like to be able to sit on the bike for a long time
@@rangeroadmoto Thanks, dude. The seat is a must. Cheers.
I ve got one. Bought in 2005, still riding it. Get a Corbin seat from US. Still enjoying it! Cheers!
That’s awesome! How many km’s you put on it ? And issues with reliability?
@@rangeroadmoto I had been a seaman for a long time. Managed to slot in 48,000km only. Bike still working Well. Thanks!
Good review! And good choice. Hey look it's my video at 3:43 😅👍
Haha that’s awesome! Which one is yours?
"dr650 maintenance" with the blue writing. Good editing mate
Extremely well crafted video with very thoughtful commentary. Thank you.
I’ve owned the 250L, WR250, DRZ400, EXF250, T7, and now I am considering the venerable DR650. My reason … I can’t change the road so I change bike. :)
Thank you! Appreciate that.
How did you like the wr250?
This was.. beautiful. This made feel like the DR650 is someone I know personally.
That’s a really nice way to put it