2009 Suzuki DR650SE Review

Exterior

2009 Suzuki DR650SE

As I mentioned earlier, the styling isn’t any different then when the Suzuki DR650SE was making a name for itself many years ago, but small design tweaks and new color schemes do manage to make for a decent revamp each and every year. 2009 makes no exception so the middleweight Suzuki all-rounder looks ready to hit the trails with its spoked 21, respectively 17-inch rims and heavy duty forks. A high-mounted front fairing, square headlight and handguards remind us of early tough motorcycles and we like to thing that there isn’t much difference between past and present, though, mechanically, we saw that there is.

The compact gas tank is characteristic to the DR while the flat and narrow seat isn’t quite the thing you’d wish to ride on for a big number of miles. While in the first years after its introductions, the model would have featured a half fairing, now only a pair of simple side plates and a headlight cover stand for graphic supports.

Now painted, the stainless-steel exhaust remains a Suzuki DR top notch characteristic as it is positioned high on the right rider side in order to allow riding through water and to give a nice aggressive touch to an overall docile looking motorcycle.

For 2009, the DR65SE is sold either entirely black (not even “number plates” are excluded like on the 2008 model year) or white painted, enhancing the never going old looks.

Test Drive

2008 Suzuki DR650SE

Riding even a 2008 model year is as concluding as next year’s model because the DR carries on without technical changes so that’s what I’ve been on for this autumn ride. Impressions on the bike didn’t stop coming from the moment I got on that narrow seat and up until those nasty trails tried to get me off of it, but ,fortunately, without success. At a 366 lbs curb weight, the DR feels light and reassuring despite the 34.8 inches of seat height, but I have to admit that having not ridden dual-sport motorcycles lately puts its fingerprint on ones riding skills and requires a little bit of getting used to, at least with the cornering. In this case, the DR, despite being an off-road bike on pavement (that’s where I got it, that’s where I started testing it), manages to inspire confidence.

The engine, which by now became famous for the low-to-mid rpm power due to carburetion and exhaust settings, is very responsive and starts purring nicely when you get it above 3500 rpm, especially out of tight corners when commuting in the suburbs.

Also, speed bumps are children’s play for the soft suspensions so up until this time you won’t be feeling the need to get the seat off your private areas. In that certain stage I found myself when hitting the highway. Suzuki must have that seat done a little bit more spacious as it steels from DR’s versatile character.

I didn’t even felt the need for a screen when riding at 70 mph as the now razor sharp seat (in my head…and in yours pretty soon) simply retains you from mentioning any other dislike that you might have. Even so, the engine didn’t prove weak on the highway as it is backed up decently by the five-speed gearbox and the suspensions make you feel afloat.

Finally, the DR650SE was out of the streets and into the dust. There, after a short brake to check on your lower back, the bike feels in its natural environment. Have it climb a steep hill, go through a small river or pass over logs and you’ll be satisfied with the work horse-like character.

Here, the high-mounted fenders make a point as well as the handguards, spoked wheels and even that hated narrow seat as it allows moving from side to side easily as you prepare for fast turns better than you would not normally approach like that on a Beemer, let’s say.

The upright riding position now even feels relaxing and the bumps are still being properly soaked up, but one of DR’s not so hidden talent, just one that I haven’t by now mentioned, is braking. With both front and rear braking systems, there will be no need to worry as going downhill. Just make sure to have a nice grippy surface to roll the off-road tires on and there you go. Efficient stopping power is provided instantaneously, leaving no doubts about DR’s efficiency on everyone’s own paths.

Price

Having a manufacturer’ suggested retail price of only $5,299, the 2009 Suzuki DR650SE is the cheapest middleweight dual-sport motorcycle, but definitely no anemic alternative to a class leader.

Conclusion

As long as you don’t take it out for a long cruise, this Suzi is a very enjoyable motorcycle with many benefits waiting to be uncovered by everybody individually. My only clues are: wear protective gear and do not spare it a minute!

Previous page

1  2  3

Next page