I’ve been wanting a Suzuki VStrom DL650 for a couple years now. Since I sold my Ural earlier this year, I finally had the funds to make it a reality.
I got very lucky with craigslist and found a DL650 very near my house and for a great price. I was really excited once I saw it had ABS. It was covered in dust and cobwebs. The front tire was very sketchy and cupped, but I rode it home safely. The previous owner didn’t ride it at all.
I’ve had it for over a month now, and I love it! I don’t know why I waited to get it! It is a lot like my SV650, but with better wind protection, ABS, and better luggage support (no more broken racks!). The fuel injection is a nice bonus, and I feel safer having ABS again.
I’ve changed the oil, lubed the chain, changed the brake fluid, new front tire, new rack to accept my givi bags, and a windshield adjuster from madstad. Next up are heated grips and hand guards to keep the rain off.
I look forward to many more fun miles to come!
PS: Thanks Steve for the photo!
Looks pretty nice! Is it significantly heavier than your SV650 (it looks a lot bigger)?
ReplyDeleteIt only feels heavier pulling it off the side stand. I think it is about 40 or 50 lbs more. I can't tell riding it. It turns tighter and handles better at slow speeds than the sv. It does look bigger because of the fairing they are about the same under the plastic.
DeleteI've read the 650 is better off road than the dl1000 v-strom. FWIW, it apparently has been made into a sidecar tug by many....
ReplyDeleteI have also read it's better than the 1000 offroad. I like the 650 better than the 1000 on road too. I am probably not going to turn it into a tug. Thinking about focusing it as a sport tourer once the Tourance tires wear out. We will see what time brings. If/when I get another sidecar, it's likely I buy it as a unit. I've seen some below 3k.
DeleteNice! Now go get it dirty!
ReplyDeleteBTW: Nothing wrong with the thous offroad either!
Looking good. I am glad you found what you wanted at the right price.
ReplyDeleteI got lucky. Thanks!
DeleteCongrats to the new bike, Chris. Definitely touring material. I am curious where it will lead you... Will you be riding it in the snow?
ReplyDeleteThanks Sonja. I do not plan on riding the vstrom in the snow. Maybe something else though.
ReplyDelete