Suzuki DR650
The Suzuki DR650 is a long-standing model in Suzuki's lineup, introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the DR600 model.[1] The DR is a dual-sport motorcycle with a counterbalanced, single cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine that develops 46 horsepower (34 kW).[1] It has a 13 L (2.9 imp gal; 3.4 US gal) fuel tank.
 Suzuki DR650RSE from 1992 | |
| Manufacturer | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Production | since 1990[1] |
| Engine | 644 cc, 4-stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4-valve, air/oil cooled[1] |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Power | 46 hp (34 kW)[1] |
| Suspension | Telescopic fork, link type swingarm |
| Dimensions | L: 2,255 mm (88.8 in)[1] W: 865 mm (34.1 in)[1] H: 1,195 mm (47.0 in)[1] |
| Seat height | 885 mm (34.8 in) |
| Weight | 147 kg (324 lb)[1] (dry) 166 kg (366 lb) (wet) |
| Fuel capacity | 13 l (2.9 imp gal; 3.4 US gal) |
History and development
The first models introduced were the Djebel/Dakar and the RS that were both kick start. In 1991, the first electric start model was introduced, namely the DR650RSE. In 1992 the Djebel/Dakar model was replaced with the DR650R. This model also saw improvements in the exhaust system, a smaller tank and 8 kg weight reduction.[1]
In 1996 the DR650SE was introduced, replacing the previous models. The engine was radically redesigned, reducing its power but allowing for more smooth delivery. The bike's weight was also reduced by around 25 kg (55 lb). In 2002, the DR's styling was updated with Suzuki's widely recognized yellow off-road racing colors and graphics.[1] The 2010–2015 SE model has the factory option of lowering the seat height by 45 mm for shorter riders. This involves lowering the front and rear suspension. A shorter side stand is also needed. The SE seat is narrow and firm. The SE has no tachometer but with standard gearing will cruise comfortably at 110–115 km/h. It has digital electronic CDI ignition and a coated cylinder bore to reduce weight. The exhaust pipe is made of stainless steel painted black to stop rusting. For a single cylinder bike, it is quite smooth due to the effective balancer shaft. At 120 km/h it still has power for overtaking. The 40 mm Mikuni Carb gives smooth power flow. It has electric-start only. The 21-inch front tire gives good directional control on gravel roads but is still fine for fast riding on sealed roads with the standard tires. The 2013 SE model has a range of about 240 km (150 mi) from the 13L tank or a consumption of less than 5L per 100 km. The front fork is non-adjustable while the rear mono shock is adjustable for preload through a tricky to access threaded collar and for compression damping. The bike qualifies for LAMs legislation for beginner motorcyclists in Australia and New Zealand where it is rated at 43HP(32 kW). The bike has an excellent reputation for reliability. The 2013–14 model is available in either grey or white[2] and the 2020 model only in grey.
As of 2020, after 24 years, the model is still in production and is the best selling over 500cc bike in New Zealand. The bike is often in the top five sellers of any capacity bikes in New Zealand. The DR650 is also a big seller in both Canada and Australia. It has long been unavailable in Europe due to stringent emission regulations which make it virtually impossible for a non-fuel-injected machine to pass. The 2015 model was white and grey with a gold stripe on the tank with the exhaust pipe finished bright.[3]
References
- Suzuki DR650 model history
- Motorcycle Trader June 2013. pp 36–42.
- Kiwirider. Long Service and Good Conduct. October 2014.