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Suzuki Dl650 V-strom
8.2/10 Adventure

Suzuki Dl650 V-strom Review

"The unglamorous Swiss Army knife that never, ever lets you down."

Commuters wanting reliable, affordable adventure touring capability $3,500-$6,500 used 2004-2020
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Used Buyer Review

The DL650 is probably the most sensible used bike purchase you can make right now, and I mean that as a genuine compliment. Suzuki's 645cc V-twin is genuinely bulletproof — these things run to 60,000 miles with nothing but chain and oil changes if you're not stupid about it. The 2012-2016 generation sweet spot hits the perfect balance of features without the complexity of newer ride-by-wire systems. Budget for new tires immediately because previous owners always run them to the cords. The riding position suits almost every body type, fuel range is genuinely impressive at 200-plus miles per tank, and parts are cheap because there are millions of them. Don't be scared off by high mileage here — 40,000 miles means nothing on these motors. Check the throttle bodies for synchronization issues and inspect the subframe for cracks if it's been dropped, which most have. It's not exciting. It will never make you look cool at a café. But it'll get you home every single time, carry your luggage, and you won't cry when it tips over in a gravel car park.

Pros

+Virtually indestructible engine
+Excellent long-distance fuel economy
+Cheap parts availability
+Comfortable ergonomics for most
+Handles high mileage gracefully

Cons

-Uninspiring below 4,000rpm
-Stock suspension feels wallowy loaded
-Wind protection barely adequate
-Looks polarising, to put it kindly
warning
Avoid if

You prioritise excitement or streetside visual impact

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