DR600R 1988 what to do, fix check etc?
 

HI all,
I have just become the proud owner of 1988 DR600R Paris Dakar, wondering what things to look for, items to check, options, wise mods, etc etc...
I have been doing a load of search's with little turning up for the 600, any help from those that have one or had one would be great,
although its an 88 it looks to be more like a 89 with the rear disk, loosk to be stock asides from the color (sun burnt orange) last owner cleaned it up.
It has 59K on the clock, takesno more than 3 kicks to start,
Only issue thus far is a soft front brake, I have a new brake line on order and will replace the fluid etc, any thoughts? is this a trait of them?
thank you for your help in advance,
regards Al

Hi there.
I had one very similar about 18 months ago....the "Djebel" version...practically the same except stickers i think! Mine had a spongy front brake too but was a lot better after changing the fluid for DOT 5.1 ABS fluid,fitting new,good quality pads(EBC),and cleaning up/greasing the caliper sliders.It was loads better after all that but still not 100% perfect,but i reccon a braided hose would have been the icing on the cake as it's a bloody long one!
Kickstarting it is first or second kick when you find the "knack".Don't be lazy with it,slowly take it past the TDC point and then another half a turn,then bring the kickstarter up and give it a purposeful,British-bike-type long swinging kick.I found that just stabbing at it only wears you out quickly.
No other problems with mine.Suzuki paintwork isn't the best around but all helps to give it that don't-bother-knicking-me-i'm-an-old-bike look.