Sydney to Venice 2014 with DR650
 

Hi,

I'm currently planning a trip from Sydney to Venice later this year and need some advice. I have very little technical skills, although have been riding for many years. My question is....Would I be able to do such a trip with a virtually stock NEW DR650? The only changes I'd make would be a rack at the back, some engine protection bars and brake/clutch leaver protection bars. Your input would be appreciated. Thank you.

A bit of light reading for you :-)
 

2010 Suzuki DR650 Long Haul Update - Dirt Rider Magazine

Suzuki DR650 Build - Transformation to an Adventure Bike - ADVrider

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...-upgrade-57809

Suzuki DR650 Aluminum Pannier Kit - Adventure-Proven Motorcycle Gear and Aluminum Panniers

Acerbis Suzuki DR650 DR 650 1996 2013 20 Litre Fuel Petrol Tank Blue | eBay

Thank you, it will keep me busy.

You could but it would be much more enjoyable riding with improved suspension front and rear, as pointed out in the HUBB thread by JediMaster and Me.

Other things to look at on a brand new DR650:

-get a better Seat
-larger fuel tank
-NSU needs to be checked before a long trip
-Output shaft seal should have a retainer fitted
-remove upper chain roller
-Id personally remove the clutch and side stand safety switches, less to go wrong in the middle of nowhere
-take spare wheel bearings & 2 cush drive bearings

If you spend an extra $1000 -$1500 on seat, suspension, tank and spares it would be money well spent

Sounds like a great trip!

Lots of knowledge (and some support)in Australia about the DR650. Many knowledgable owners here on HUBB, also on ADV Rider and here:
www.DRRiders.com
Very friendly group on DRRiders, go there, ask questions. Several Aus riders there too.

Some Australian DR riders order parts and accessories from the USA as (even with shipping) ends up being cheaper to buy from USA and ship to Oz.
Try these 2 vendors:
Suzuki DR650 Parts, Accessories, & Performance - ProCycle

Kientech Engineering Home Page

I would not worry much about the DR causing any trouble. Very reliable bike. That said, it would not hurt to learn to do some basic maintenance. It is a very simple moto to work on. Doing some basics yourself will save not only money but time and inconvenience. bier

You should learn to:
1. Fix a flat and change tires (carry 3 spare inner tubes)
2. Learn to remove and clean air filter. (don't forget to lightly oil it)
3. Learn to look after your chain and sprockets. (carry 2 spare front sprockets to help your chain last longer) Keep chain clean and lightly oiled, it should last 22,000 kms. (more or less)
4. Learn to remove/install your battery. (keep connectors TIGHT)
5. Learn basics about carburetor ... install an extended fuel screw, learn to drain float bowl and learn what hoses go where. Be aware of small fuel filter at metal fuel inlet tube.
6. Build a good tool kit, including 3 tire irons, patch kit and basic tools.

Best to set your bike up and buy needed parts before leaving Oz. Not much support along the way until Europe. In Europe the DR650 is no longer sold anywhere ... BUT ... you can find some support in Germany at:
http://www.hessler-motorsport.de/

Moto Concessionari - the new 20liter acerbis for dr650se

I'd advise not getting too caught up in all the "build threads" on the DR650.
There are now literally MILLIONS of posts on various forums. Learn the basics ... AND GO RIDING! :scooter:

Sound advice as usual from Mollydog, get the basics done, keep the bike light, use soft luggage with a decent lightweight frame to keep bags out of wheels/off exhaust.

We cant over emphasize enough how important it is to pack light, every gram of weight you carry will change the way the bike handles for the worse. I have squeezed 30,000 kms out of a chain set (switching between 14 & 15 tooth front sprockets on the trip) but it was completely shot after that, so you should be ok.

Loading tips
 

Excellent advice! I would add that keeping the weight low on the bike is very important as well. Many people start with panniers that are too small, or mounted high, and proceed to pile stuff on the rack and back seat. IMO, it is hard to get away with much less than 60 litres unless you are not camping at all. Ideally those 60-70 litres of gear are below the seat top and as far forward as possible. This really helps the handling.

I have moved to soft panniers to reduce weight and allow for lower mounting further forward. I don't mind hitting the back of my lower leg on a soft bag nearly as much as catching it under a solidly mounted hard bag!