The DR650 surprises a lot of riders ... even experienced ones. Most have very low expectations. But the DR certainly surprised me! Early on I did not really trust it for long solo trips into remote areas of Mexico ... but I do now. (4 or 5 trips down there as well trips to Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Colorado ... and lots in between)

I didn't realize how strong the bike was until I'd done some really hard trips on it fully loaded off road. The more I've ridden it, the more confidence I've gained.

I've done a lot to my DR to help it. Essential if you ride hard and go off road in more challenging conditions. Suspension, seat, lighting, guards ... and very good maintenance.

Lots of guys who've not spent time on the DR think it's just another over weight, underpowered relic from the 1980's. (In a way, it IS)

BUT .... Suzuki really got this bike right ... at least they got the really important parts right. The Oil cooling (* Suzuki SACS system) is brilliant. The Frame, swingarm are also very good and strong designs for the mid 1990's.

Having owned most dual sport and dirt bikes out there I've grown to respect and appreciate the simplicity of the DR ... and it's toughness. If well cared for, they should last a long time. (I'm now over 60,000 miles (90K km)