Suzuki Dr650

The DR650 is a dual-sport / on-off road motorcycle built for versatility, able to handle both pavement and light off-road trails. It combines street comfort with adventure-style geometry, making it a good choice for commuting, adventure riding, and trail use.

The DR650 uses a single-cylinder air/oil-cooled four-stroke engine with SOHC and 4-valves. It’s known for being simple, rugged and relatively low-maintenance compared to multi-cylinder bikes.

Yes, it can be a suitable choice for newer riders because of its straightforward power delivery and lighter weight compared to large adventure bikes. However, seat height and front-wheel size may require some comfort evaluation for shorter riders (the 21″ front wheel tends to raise the ride height).

While the DR650 is capable of highway speeds, its long-legged configuration and single-cylinder engine mean that it may feel more at home at moderate cruising speeds rather than sustained high speeds. It’s excellent for mixed use and light touring, but if you primarily ride highways at high speed, you might miss smoother multi-cylinder performance.

Expect general maintenance typical of many dual-sport bikes: regular oil changes, chain maintenance, valve clearance checks, and attention to the carburetor or fuel system if your model uses one. Because the DR650 has a simpler engine layout, many owners report long service intervals between major issues.

Yes, the 21″ front wheel and 17″ rear wheel, decent ground clearance, and dual-sport geometry give it capability on dirt, gravel, and rougher terrain. For more aggressive off-road use, upgrades to suspension and tires may improve comfort and performance.

Popular upgrades include improved exhaust systems, skid plates, larger fuel tanks for longer range, and suspension upgrades to make the bike more capable off-road. As with any vehicle, ensure compatibility and correct setup.

The DR650 has a strong reputation for reliability, thanks to its simple engine design and long production run. It is often viewed as a “bulletproof” bike by owners, and this helps it hold resale value reasonably well, especially for dual-sport enthusiasts.

Because it's a single-cylinder engine, you may experience more vibration and less top-end power compared to multi-cylinder bikes. Its seat height and long travel suspension may be tall for shorter riders, and stock suspension may be basic for very aggressive off-road use.

Yes, the model has been in production since 1990 and remains in many markets. When buying used, consider checking for service history, condition of the carburetor/fuel system (for older models), and wear on off-road components like tires, suspension and chain.