what you think about this bike for a rtw trip

**NothingMan** · #1 29 Mar 2006

hi i think i am gonna go with the suzuki dr650 for my rtw world trip which will take me to south america, africa, asia and all the rest. i am going with the suzuki because it's cheap not that cost is a big factor for me and because it is simply and reliable. when i by the bike i am gonna put on a skid plate, aqualine 30L tank, alum handlebars, acribis handguards, wp rear shock, progressive front springs, fork brace, alum panniers and rack, corbin seat with sheep skin cover aswell. with all these mods the i could probably buy a KTM 640adv but i figure with these mods it was probably be just as good and be more reliable and easier and cheap to get parts when something does go wrong. just would like to know what u people think about my project. and if it is worth it or should i just go with the KTm?

**Wheelie** · #2 29 Mar 2006

Seems you have made an excellent choice. With the panniers, I'd suggest strengthening the sub frame a bit, maybe with an extention running down to the foot pegs or something. This way you get more weight distribution down and centre in adition to more stability to the sub frame, improving your balance and handling. Further, the weak subframe wouldn't do a lot of good even in a small spill with hard panniers mounted to it...

Just make certain it is in good nick when you head out on the road.

**yuma simon** · #3 30 Mar 2006

Read thru this thread http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb...ML/000519.html Someone mentions that the Honda and Yamaha models are so common that even the most remote villages have someone who can fix them. I had a small 1991 DR250s model back in the early 90's, so I am biased towards the Suzuki myself. Good choice in my opinion.

**Jeffr726** · #4 31 Mar 2006

I'm also looking to purchase a DR650. In regards to upgrading the subframe, are there kits available or is a custom homemade add on. Any pics would be greatly appreciated. Second, are the suspension upgrades necessary. I've read how it's a must on KLR's but haven't seen as much on the DR. (I weigh about 200lbs) Thanks in advance for any information.

**mika** · #5 31 Mar 2006

DR 650 for a rtw, good choice.

get it new, do some of the mods you wrote about. make sure you have a washable air filter (sorry, dont know what is standard with the dr650) and carry a spare filter.

an upgraded suspension is very nice to have, but also costly. no, you wont really need it, but after maybe 50.000km you will need (...wish) something stronger. than you can still get upgraded parts send over ...
... if you buy a new rear shock (I recommend Oehlins, but I dont have expierence with WP) than get it with a stronger spring.

enjoy

mika

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**beddhist** · #6 1 Apr 2006

I weigh only 70kg and my rear suspension bottoms out occasionally (in Europe on tar!). I've just done a cheap fix and installed a Wirth spring on the original shock. It's a big improvement for only about 80€. Now I can load it up and tackle Asian roads.

If you put in a good aftermarket shock it will have a stronger spring.