Basically I agree. On the other hand, I had my DL650 in the shop for its first-ever maintenance of any sort (aside from tire and oil changes, plus periodic spritzing of the chain with WD40 followed by no lube whatsoever). At 18,000 miles it needed nothing at all--valves still in spec, chain not worn (but with one tight link), air filter had accumulated some bugs, spark plugs all fine but changed while the fuel tank was off, etc.).
By the same mileage, my same-vintage KLR had needed a couple of tuneups, chain and sprockets, added fuel filters, bits of wiring modification when fuses blew or safety cutouts malfunctioned, valve shim changes, and extensive engine work due to a grenaded doohickey. In the balance, the DL has required less maintenance despite the greater complexity.
Just one more data point, whether relevant or not.
Mark
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