The Best Touring Motorcycle?

For sport touring duty, I’d take the new Triumph Sprint ST over anything else. For adventure touring, I really like the BMW 650 GS, but the 1200GS would be a treat too.

Interesting. I’m pretty sure the VStrom 650 is made by Suzuki, since I own two of them! I’ve owned a BMW F650 in the past, it doesn’t even come close to the DL650 for touring comfort.

Tedder – what makes the VStrom 650 so much more comfy than the BMW F650? I’ve heard nothing but rave reports on the BMW F650 and until I came across that Italian site don’t ever remember seeing the Zuki mentioned. Is it seat cushion, height, center of gravity, handling, shocks, nimbleness, smooth at any rpm even with loading with touring gear? And how about it compared with the Kawi 650 KLR which is, for most, the dream machine for touring — and how does the VStrom do on a little dirt? Would love to hear more of your comments!
Carla

I run a custom seat on the DL650, which helps. Mainly, it is a bigger bike, easier to set up for touring, with a GREAT windscreen. I ran an aftermarket on my F, and I run an aftermarket screen on my DL, too. The smoothness of the DL (SV) motor is great, handles two-up or tons of luggage just fine.
Doesn’t even compare to the KLR for offroad worthiness, of course. The DL just wasn’t built for that- it has less ground clearance, exposed bits (oil cooler, radiator, oil filter). But the DL is comfortable on fire roads, wide gravel, etc.
I’ve taken my DL on two saddlesore days (1000 miles in 24 hours), and just did 730 miles on Saturday. Plus I’ve taken it up on crazy dirt roads and trails, and it handled that, too. It’s nice not to be restricted to pavement.
I know of a well-known fellow with a 12GS that wishes he had a DL650 instead. Sure, the 12GS does more, but it’s also three times the price.

Well, that sounds pretty good to me and now I will have to go for a test ride! Mostly I ride on the road with a strong desire to head off on some dirt road that appears to lead to an irresistible place like a beach or a medieval village or cave paintings or off onto a road like the Lost Highway here in Northern California. Likely I wouldn’t use a GS as it is meant to be used anyway. Thanks for your comments, and I wonder if there are any more votes for the VStrom out there?
Carla

I have been pondering a V-Strom 650 and have come this close (picture my fingers being really close together) twice to buying one. But as a pure touring bike, no way. The V-Strom is a great all around bike, (with the exception of looks) good for commutting, touring, dirt roading and sport riding. It’s versatility is what apeals to me. But if I had to pick a pure touring bike, I would go with more of a street bike, preferably a cruiser for comfort; how much dirt will you be riding? I rode around Mexico on a Vulcan 500LTD and was fine on the dirt rodes, which was less than 10% of our riding. I doubt Italy will have more dirt roads.

I have ridden the F650gs and I now own the DL650. The ONLY are the GS excels in IMO is the ABS braking system. The DL650 is a cpl thousand less and from what my friend has spent maintaining her F650gs, you can keep it. She has spent 4 times as much on maintenance /repairs as I have on two different Intruders with twice the mileage. The Wee Strom was just acquired, but Suzuki reliability isn’t a concern with me.
Type @ Ya’ll Later
Night_Wolf
http://www.intruderalert.ca
2005 DL650 Wee Strom
1996 VS1400 (keeper 80,000 miles)
MIG 2625
VSRI 1083

One thing to consider about the V-strom is that if you are short, it can be a little tricky in the hills. I am not sure about how this compares to the BMW F650, but being a short guy I have had a couple of instances where I was uncomfortable.
Jay
Motorcycle Loans

I’ve had both GS650 and the DL650 and favour the DL by far.
The extra power +15hp and the smoothness of the engine give a big edge on road use. The off road capability is the same unless we’re talking about the Paris-Dakar version of the GS650, and really only allows you to ride fire roads and easy gravel tracks. This, however, is done with so much ease, it feels as if you were still on tarmac. In Italy we have a few very scenic fire roads, which are worth doing, plus, the roads in the south lack in maintenance compared to the ones in the centre north, so the extra “off road” set up helps you cope with these conditions without any problem.
The V-Strom is also extremely good on tarmac. It leans no end and is able to stick with any bike through the twisties, giving always a solid road holding feel. A sports bike will get away from you in excellent road conditions, but encounter half grippy tarmac with some uneveness and you’ll fly by any sports bike, leaving them sweating in their leathers not to fall off!
The DL is a great all-rounder. It does everything really well.
Always talking about Italy and what the roads are like here, you’ll encounter many, many twisty sections. For comfort, cruisers and big tourers are deceptively comfortable, putting alot of strain on the rider because of their weight.
Ciao
Francesco
stromista

I’ve had my 650DL for about 2 weeks. I can’t say enough good things about it. I’m using it to get around in the DC metro area and have to deal with heavy traffic, horrible roads, but once and awhile I can get on a twisty parkway and just ride. It’s a great bike. It’s tall enough that I can see forever, better than in my Jeep. It handles all the 30 MPH potholes and torn up pavement with a smoothness I couldn’t imagine on bike. There is great mid-range power so operating it as low as 3,000 to 3,500 RPM in all gears feels fine. A lot of people comment about the looks. Personally, I like the looks, at least in red. I can see where this bike would feel too tall for a rider with less than a 33 inch inseam. I can’t wait to get this bike out into the wilds of West Virginia and see how it handles on mountain roads and gravel fire trails.

Sounds great! I’ll bet it can be lowered. Hey, let me know how your exploration of mountain roads and gravel trails goes! Thanks!

I’ve owned a Dl650 for 13 months, in this time I’ve put close to 10000 miles. She has taken me on some short trips , single and 2up. Most of the mileage has been on my commute, I’ve done very little fire road ridding.
I’m 5′-4″, I’ve lowered the bike by 1.5″, and use a Corbin seat that places me lower than the stock one. I’ve been ridding daily since 1971 which includes some nice long rides, to the Artic Circle and Costa Rica. I’ve owned several motos.
The Dl650 is one of the better ones.
Descent gas mileage, 54 MPG.
Handles well at slow or fast speeds.
Descent wind protection.
Good low to midrange power.
Good weight distribution.
Enjoy

The great 650dl can be lowered. I’ve loaded the fork 1,5 centimeters, put off the seat silentblocks and substituted the “rear shock-absorver”‘s suporting bars for the suzuki SV’s (which are 5mm longer so the v-strom gets 2cms lower). I am 168cm tall and now my v-strom 650 is no problem to my size.
Excuse me for my poor english.
bye!

I’ve been trying to figure out which bike to buy for over a year now. I began looking at a BMW 650GS, then got stoked on the Tigers, the realized that’s not what I needed, hopped over to the VStrom 650, back to the GS, and was stuck on that forever….VERY recently I realized it’s the KLR 650. What an amazing bike! I’m planning a 3-6 month trip from South America, to Alaska, and the KLR just seems to be the fit. Something about durability, simplicity and a style that hasn’t changed much in 20 years says something. Not to mention the U.S. Army buys up gazillions of them. If anybody has any ideas on what special things I need to do to make my bike trip worthy, let me know…
Dug 🙂

For someone that needs to look at a bike for touring that is under $2000 I would have to say that the CB900C makes a good start. I got mine for $700 so you can get them for cheap money. The bad part about it is that the newest CB900C was built in 1982. I’ve had it for some short rides and it does very well. You can get the CB900C with honda faring (taken from the goldwing) and bags, or you can get the vetter faring and bags.
Don’t count out older bikes for touring, lots of them are built to go for a long time. The four cylinder goldwings can often do 100,000 before they need a rebuild.

I bought a new 2005 GL650. It provides the rider with great confidence and stability in a smooth as silk package. The 650 is all you need unless you are into drag-racing and long uphill touring with 500 Lbs on board.

I own a DL 650. This bike is great! I ride R 1200 GS, believe me 650 is a real competitor for 1200 GS.

That Suzuki V Strom 650 that was two weeks old in April now has 4,000 miles on it. I’ve done a couple of long drives back and forth between DC and West Virginia. Yes, I finally got the bike back on some forest roads. It handles fine, but you sure don’t go tearing around on it like you would a 125. You also wouldn’t drive a 125 for 3 1/2 hours on the interstate going 70 to 80 then pull off-road for another 2 hours of backwoods cruising. From the standpoint of utility, I don’t see how this bike can be beat.

My V-Strom DL650 is celebrating its first birthday. The odometer has crossed 7k miles. The tires show some wear, but appear to have a long way to go yet. Chain and sprockets show no significant signs of wear.
The bike:
* gets 42 to 46 MPG at 90 MPH
* easily goes 200 miles between fill ups
* accelerates with authority
* loves bad roads, bumps, potholes, ruts
* is surprisingly nimble, quick, and obedient
* is really forgiving
* has powerful brakes
My previous bike was a KLR 650. It would shake above 80 mph on the highway. It just had no balls above that speed anyway. The KLR had weak brakes and a flimsy feel. It was hard to trust it on bumpy or slick road conditions. The KLR was capable of running some dirt roads, but was too heavy to call a dirt bike.
The V-Strom is not a dirt bike either. It is good for level dirt or gravel roads. Maybe more with some modifications. On the street, the V-Strom DL650 kicks the KLR650’s ass without mercy. The KLR cannot keep up with a DL650 on any paved road at any time at any speed.
My plan is to see how many miles the “Wee Strom” can endure. I do not own a car. I commute more than 60 miles per day, 7 days a week (work every day). That is about 21000 miles in a year. Then, I am preparing for a 7000 mile solo tour August 2006 when I take a well deserved, 3 week vacation.
Doing some math, I estimate 35,000 miles on the odometer when the bike is two years old. Can the V-Strom stand up to five years of me? Only time will tell.
HA, HA, HA (evil laughter)
Thank god for the V-strom!

Here in ‘Blighty (Yorkshire, England) there aren’t many DL 650s around. I saw the second in 7 months earlier this evening.
I have been riding for 6 years, and racked up 16K miles on my unfared SV650. What a laugh of a bike. In the search for touring comfort and practicality I bought the V-Strom on spec. Heated grips, hand guards, centre stand. I’m 5’8″ but not always happy with the hight of the bike (much better when my other half is on the back) The sound is real disappointment. Seems to have a gearbox whine in 1st & 2nd.
Did Land’s End to John ‘O Groats (850miles) in 15 hours with a bunch of lads and lasses on Yamaha FJ1200 & FJR1300s. My Knees ached much more than on the SV, and my lumber was agony (never got this problem on the SV – although my wrists and neck needed remedial work).
Apart from that it’s a great bike. Just under 6K on the clock, in 7 momths. I get 55 mpg. I’ve got an indicated 120mph but I think it’s at least 5mph out (slower than indicated), The fuel guage is incredibly accurate – 50 miles per bar.
The SV650 was a nightmare on rough broken roads (normal round here) but the V-Strom in confidence inspiring. Been riding my Brother’s Transalp 1990 (crap brakes) and no go, but a good screen, and BMW F650 -crap everything, except really low seat height.
These trail style bikes are just so much fun on twisties! The only thing that was more grin factor was a 1984 Yamaha 550 (pre XT Trail bike) 110mph down a Devon country lane leaving a Triumph Sprint, Suzuki bandit 600 and the transalp for dust (literally)
Happy riding

Hey, thanks everyone for your experiences and opinions!
Carla

I am looking to travel around South America on a motorbike and need atleast one other companion. (I am reluctant to go alone)Is there a website that I can advertise for someone or a group to travel with?
Peter (from Australia)

I am glad I found this thread. I’ve been trying to decide between the DL 650 and KLR 650. Having read all the amazing praise heaped on the DL I think it is the best choice for my needs (Boston’s roads suck big time). Are there any points other than being more competent off road that make the KLR any better?

I cannot believe there are people who actually state the Vstrom is a better machine than the KLR. I have owned both, and in my opinion the KLR is a much better machine. Granted, a stock VStrom will handle the street better – However (and this is a big one) – with 79 dollars worth of Progressive front fork springs and 49 dollars worth of Galfer front brake lines – the KLR will out-perform the VStrom on the dirt and on the street. It lasts longer and has better resale value as well. I put 49K on my first 1990 KLR, and 25K on my second 1998 KLR. My son ended up with my first one. I have never been stranded, and have ridden all types of terrain.
I don’t know the measured Horse Power of either bike, and the Vstrom is probably a tad higher (hence the higher revs). It does not however have near the torque, and that’s what gets ya movin and up the hill.
Plus the DR’s false nuetrals, cheap plastic and self destructing head (mine ate itself at 16K), make the KLR a much better machine……..
It’s just my opinion… I could be wrong

I bought a new ’04 dl 1000 in March of ’05 and have never looked back. Although my previous experience is somewhat limited (8000 miles on a 1982 Honda Nighthawk 750 in the 7 months leading up to the Vstrom purchase) I can’t imagine a bike better suited to my wants. In the last eight months I have ridden 11k miles through the mountains of Colorado and South Dakota. I have traded rides with both of my brothers, one rides a Goldwing and the other a Vstar, I call them the Barge and Pig respectively. The Vstrom is great in the mountain twisties, superb on the in town commute, and extremely comfortable and even relaxing on long distance highway rides. My longest single day ride was right at 800 miles. I have the stock seat and windshield and do not see the need to upgrade either. I am 6′ tall and 215lbs with a 32″ inseam and the Vstrom fits me like a glove. The thing I love most about it is the heighth. I can see further over and through traffic than I can in or on any other vehicle I’ve driven. Of course the power and handling are awesome. I have been on several forest roads through the Rockies and the Vstrom handles great on dirt, gravel, sand, mud, rain slick pavement, and even some snow (not intentionaly). I put some soft bags on it, saddle, tail, and tank and can carry every thing I need for extended touring. I have ridden a lot of other bikes, not for any length of time, just traded with friends and family for short trips and I have checked out the BMW and the Tiger and I can say without a doubt, I would not tade this bike for anything. It matches my size and style like nothing else out there. Just my two cents, make your own call.
Kevin

I forgot to talk about mileage and range. It’s very impressive. I have ranged from 42 to 64 mpg depending on how hard I push it. I average around 54mpg this gives me a range to empty of 313 miles although I usually fill up between 250 and 275 this really upset my brother with the Goldwing. We took a week long trip through and around the Rockies here in Colorado and I topped off every time he did even though I didn’t need to and my fuel bill for the trip (2000 miles) was about 60% of his. I just can’t say enough good things about this bike.
Kevin

I’ve been looking for a dual-sport bike for awhile now and have found this thread very informative. I’ve narrowed my choices down to the F650 Dakar or the Vstrom 650.
I plan on using the bike to tour Australia anticipating its use as 70%-80% on road, 20%-30% off-road. Also, I have to travel 2 miles of dirt/gravel track from home to get to a paved road. I’ve read a lot of praise for both bikes but am leaning towards the BMW because I think it’s better suited for the dirt. If I was only going to go off-road occasionally, the Vstrom would be my first choice, and if I was going to go off-road most of the time I’d probably be looking at the KLR, but the F650 Dakar seems like a fair compromise.
Anyone agree? Disagree?

In April of 2004 after completing an MSF class which I recommend for anyone who hasn’t taken it, experienced or not. Like most new riders I looked on the internet to get some ideas. Even though I am new rider my passion goes back a long time. My final choice was the Honda Shadow Spirit 1100. I know this forum is for dualsport bikes I’ll get to that shortly. The Shadow 1100 is a great bike I love it. If for whatever reason I had to replace the bike I would get the same bike again. Only one downside about the bike is its a bit heavy for a daily commutor. Which is why I am considering getting a 2nd bike not a replacement. This quest for a 2nd bike brings me to dualsport which brings me to either the Vstrom 650 or KLR650. I’ve pretty much narrowed it down to these 2 bikes. I am thinking more on the KLR650 side since I am keeping my shadow for long highway cruises. I think the KLR would be the better choice due to the better off road capabilities.
Given my scenario, what would you do?

I wish I could fit on the BMW it looks very cool and worth the $$$. I am 6’6″ bare foot and need A tall bike and not to look like Herman Munster on one. The KLR was best for me out here in Michigan thumb area with all these dirt roads and lonely highways. I might want to go crazy and go 100 mph for a while then hit a trail and explore and abandoned farm house. The other 650s did not have a proven past of 20 years and I went for that. The BMW is far the best looking 650 I have ever seen and has cool features to. Wish I could fit.

I haven’t ridden a KLR, but it’s probably a far, far better bike off road than the DL. The suspension on the DL is too stiff for anything but well-maintained asphalt…if you don’t see a bump, you’re going to wish you had, and you’re going to remember where it was the next time you ride that stretch of road. Luckily, once you learn where the bumps are, the nice wide bars and upright riding position make it easy to pick your way through egregious road conditions. 🙂 On a stretch of pavement, though, the DL has the grunt of an SV650 with a more confidence-inspiring posture. I just can’t imagine a rotax thumper keeping up, in a KLR or any other frame.
The BMW GS is like a more expensive KLR with better stock componentry and way less available aftermarket. If in the long term you’re going to do much more riding on road than off, with no real singletrack off road requirements, you should go with the DL. For acceptable performance on anything worse than flat dirt or wide fire roads, look into cartridge emulators for the front forks, better off-road tires, an engine guard of some description, and (if you have the money) an adjustable rear shock from either Works Performance or Ohlins. So equipped, a DL still comes in at roughly the price of the BMW, has similar off road ability (though still not that of a lightly modded KLR), solid reliability, and on road performance far better than a stock SV650. Better suspension is better everywhere. If you’re going to be doing any singletrack-ish off roading, though, the KLR is probably the way to go. Lighter, better clearance, great aftermarket, reliable.
All that said, I haven’t made a single mod to my DL, have ridden it (fearfully but without dumping it) off-street, and will probably never get rid of it no matter what I can afford in the future. The ugliness, the quiet at low speeds, the range, the scream of 10,000rpm from the SV motor, soldiering around town…it just sets the right kind of tone. 🙂

I have an 05 V-Strom 650, Sold the 05 KLR (my second one) after one 500mile DualSport ride on Suzuki. I ride very agressive offroad dual sport on this bike, and I DO know how to ride so I mean AGRESSIVE. I ride Motorcross on a KTM, and while I will not go out of my way to find a double or triple to jump on the DL650, it handled absolutely EVERYTHING I threw at it. I did do some mods. Continental Offroad (same size as the GS1150) knobbies were the very first change and frankly an absolute MUST… And I actually got better grip on road too. The stock tires blow on the street and are downright dangerous in the loose stuff, wants to swap ends in the sandy areas. After the tires, I installed a Crash bar and Skidplate combo to protect the exposed oilfilter and oil cooler, a definate must if you travel offroad. I added a Satellite Radio, grip heaters and Flexx bars with some real cushy Progrip gel handgrips just to make the guys I ride with on their KLR, XR, and DRs jealous (It worked!). The guy that ways that this bike only has a little more power and less torque than the KLR is an idiot. The KLR, even in modified form is a pig comared to this thing in all ways that matter (brakes, power, and handling), with technology from the early 80’s compared to cutting edge FI, Triple disc brakes and Aluminum frame technology of the DL. Mark my words, there is no possible comparison between these 2 bikes in any way except that they both have two wheels. My KLR felt like a cheap piece Tiawanese built crap after only 700 miles. The KLR tires are terrible as well and must be changed too. The KLR has a ground clearance advantage and a travel advantage, but dont underestimate the DL offroad. Its truly a swissarmy knife.

Hi,
Good reading comments. I have had a DL650 for 6 weeks, and love it. Seem to find excuses to take it anywhere.
I am a touch short at 173cm, and 68kg, and find the height of the bike just a tad high. I was hoping it would drop after bedding in, as the salesman siad.
I read a couple of people have lowered the bike by a couple of centimeteres. I am keen to look at ways of achieving this myself. I have limited motorcycle knowledge, but am mechanically minded. (Hope that makes sense?).
If anyone can help me with details of what to do/try, and how it is done, I would appreciate hearing from you.
I previously rode a Honda CB250 for 3 years, so it’s no wonder the DL650 is impressing me. I ride with a mate, who rides a 1200GS, and he is also impressed with the DL. As I am impressed with his GS.
Replies can be to email if you like.
Cheers
Chris

i have 22300 miles on a 05 dl650,scorpion slip-on and bmg air filter, with an ivans tre.changed the fork oil to 12.5 wt.the only mods..im on my 3rd set of rear brake pads,still on stock fronts,,4th tire..3rd front..i ride to work every day…except two days it was snowing..i have had not one problem with this blke..i have more then 435000 miles on the street..from sr500’s, rz350’s to sv650-fz1’s ducati’s and daytona 955i’s..but this suzuki is to fun…i think i will look for a big bore kit soon..but for anyone out there thinking of buying one go for it…..do..what i did to mod it..and sit back and ride…dont watch tv…ride man ride..oh the wind screen needs to be tilted back..(production flaw)put a couple washers in the bottom screw holes…rubber ones and tighten down to highest setting..worked for me…many roads

I have had my DL650 for a month. I have been riding a year and this is my 6th bike to purchase. (4 4 me & 2 4 my son) I love this bike. One testimony that I see a lot in the “this bike, that bike” debate, is that many DL650 owners repurchase a second DL650. That speaks volumes!!

I have had my DL650 for a year now, only done 6000km but jere goes anyway…I am under no illusions about the looks of this machine – they suck. But how about what it does? Well, on the road it handles very well, powerful enough (who needs supersport performance in the city?) to pull you along nicely. Steers like a dream, good brakes and reasonable economy.
Bad points? Its tall, but that doesnt bother me at 182 cm (6′ in teh old money). But what does bother me is the stock screen – man that thing is worse than nothing at all – believe me I’ve tried it. It cause the worst buffeting I have ever had – in every position. I dont know what to do, I want to keep this bike but the constant headaches after an hour of riding at speed (anything over 100km/hr) are starting to give me severe doubts…I mean, I bought this nike to go round Australia! If anyone has any ideas about after market screens, I would be very grateful!
I have ridden mostly road with about 200 km of gravel road. Gravel roads are fine if you stand up and are careful feeding in the power. I tried a proper ungraded dirt track and that was a bit more challenging…although I stayed upright it was an effort. Avoid ruts is my advice unless you are a serious off road rider and used to muscling heavy machinery around. I rode 1600km of outback tracks in far north queensland a couple of years ago on a 250 and my idea of hell would be to take the DL650 on the same route. Dont even think about it. If you want to dpo that sort of thing buy the KTM950 Adventure – and learn to ride. HARD!

I purchased a DL650-K6 in July, 2 mi on it. As of 11/08/06, it now has 6500 miles on it! I’ve installed an automatic chain oiler (I designed), Givi 21″ windscreen, handguards, Givi engine bars, Hot Grips, Givi luggage set (3), and cut out the center foam in the seat to add 1″ of memory foam. It handles great, 55MPG, and the operating cost is very good. Lately, I’ve notice a mild surging at low RPMs. The TBs are sych’d to 1/2″ of mercury deviation. All-in-all, it is a very good bike to own. I’ve taken it down many dirt roads and on a few dirt bike paths. It can be done by letting out about 1/2 your air pressure and unloading all your luggage. Still, it’s a street bike with fireroad capabilities. I still have a few other modifications to make, but for the overall cost, it is the best bang for the buck! I sold my ’99 BMW R1100RT (109,000 miles) and a 2000 Triumph Tiger 900 (20,000) and ended up buying this bike. Parts are very available, the cost is cheap, and accessability to the components is pretty simple. I would recommend this bike to the versitile rider. The speedsters wouldn’t like it, nor would the HD crowd. But for Joe Schmoe like me, it’s good to go!

I am trying to decide on the perfect bike to ride to Alaska on. I live in Washington now. My Father and I rode through WA, OR, ID, and Montana this summer. I was on my BMW 1150RT and he was on his VSTROM 650. He loves it, says it is the best bike he has ever owned. I have been looking at the VSTROM, KLR, F650GS/Dakar, and 1200 GS. After reading all of these opinions I am leaning towards the DL650, Thanks for the info. There is good info on VSTROM aftermarket farkles at http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/

I got myself a new Dl 650 about 6 weeks ago & have done about 4000 km so far. Previous bike was a triumph sprint ST, 46k/km. I sometimes miss the the zing & tone of the Sprint but generally I’m very pleased with the 650, especially having the option of exploring off the asphault.
I’m a tall rider and find the V-strom the best fit of anything I’ve been on yet, including the BMW 1100GS,1150GS & 1200GSA. I’ve added a foam pad & sheepkin cover to raise the seat. A set of Oxford Hot Grips of course.
I’ve got a Laser exhaust on order and will also add a Givi windscreen (I’m finding the stock screen in the highest position adequate but V-strom riders tell me the Givi is worth the cost). I’ve put on Givi engine bars & suzuki hand guards.
Complaints ? Only minor ones : Rear brake lacks feel,ie., light pressure no response, firm pressure back wheel locked; handlebars a bit cheap & nasty, headlights look too big for the bike (I opened mine up & painted the ‘eyebrow’ bits matt black); I’ve yet to source a skid plate ( I worry about that exposed oil filter at the front, a skid plate should come stock on a ‘dual purpose’ bike).
It is a joy to ride & does everything I ask it to do. A brand new bike that does all of this for the selling price of my 7 year old Triumph !

When in Rome… I’m born in Rome, I live in Rome, I own a V-Strom DL-650 and I love it 🙂

I curently own a Hyosung GT 650s – a 2004 with the smaller bars. This bike was good fun but as time goes by I want a more reliable bike. how is the vstrom in this department, can any of you compare it with my current bike.

Looking for some experienced insight on a bike decision. I will be heading off on a journey across half the US and as many square miles of South America as possible and will be buying my machine this spring. I have always heard and until now possibly, just assumed that a BMW was THE bike for long distance travel. Has anyone done much work on a v-strom? Can anyone attest to the longevity of the motor…after 50k miles? Known problems to expect on the road? Reliability and repair comparison’s between carbs and injection? KLR’s also have a reputation that proceeds them. I have also heard accounts of folks using XL650’s but the air cooled motor in hot weather concerns me. Any thoughts on the Transalp? Thanks for the help.
-Jeremie

Here I was thinking of the Yamaha YZF 600R as my next touring bike. I have owned in this order since 1992. Honda Magna 750, Ninja 1100, Gold Wing 1500, Kawasaki 1500, Kawasaki KLR 650, Kawasaki 1500 Bagger, BMW 1150 GS, Bajaj Chetak 150, Suzuki Burgman 650, Honda Reflex 250. I have rode all of these machines on long touring trips of 1,500 miles or more. On road,and off road. I am little crazy. If it has wheels it is meant to ride any where. I am in my 48th year of riding. May I die on 2 wheels somewhere on a trip. 39 Years ago when I was married, I owned so many motorcycles that my young bride asked if I had a motorcycle shop. I told her that they were all my toys.

I have a 1990 klr 250 with a bad rear shock.I looked around for one and was surpised to find out that the replacements start at 560.00 and up.Has anyone found a better price or solution?

I’M PLANNING A MICHIGAN TO LA TRIP THIS SPRING.I’M FIRING UP MY ACTING CAREER AFTER A SHORT 25 YEAR HIATUS(TOOK A WRONG TURN!!) I’M A DL 650 RIDER.ANY SUGGESTIONS OUT THERE? MARK

You might find the reviewer’s comments interesting at http://www.wheels.ca/Motorcycles/article/29907#

I can’t believe people are actually trying to compare that dinosaur KLR thing to a V-Strom.That’s like comparing a farm impliment to a Porche.Technology moved along a fair bit in the twenty years between KLR and V-Strom.
My primo has a KLR and we go riding.My bike’s a class act to ride in comparison,and even gets better fuel mileage.
Before I bought the bike I was actually considering a KLR.Glad I didn’t.Just no fun factor to them.I’m gettin’ a little older now and a bike like the KLR is just painfull.Ten years ago I would have been content on a KLR.
Anyway,have fun and be safe.
Todd

April 3, 2005

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