The Best Touring Motorcycle?

Researching my upcoming motorcycle trip around the Adriatic Sea I came across the website of a company in Italy who favors the Suzuki VStrom 650 as the best motorcycle touring bike for Italy. In short, they summarize "Substance instead of appearance." Not that it's not a good-looking bike, it is, but it's not an Italian looking bike! :-) Here's their short review:

"It offers a very natural riding position and a comfortable seat for both passenger and rider. The adventure bike nature of this motorcycle translates in an incredible suspension and chassis set up. Whilst mostly favouring road handling, with flawless behaviour on smooth and grippy surfaces, this bike will glide over bumpy roads and tackle light gravel tracks with ease."

Still, I'm riding a Guzzi, because when in Rome...

Here's the complete review. I'd love to hear what you think is the best touring bike.

Comments

[Kevin]

I forgot to talk about mileage and range. It's very impressive. I have ranged from 42 to 64 mpg depending on how hard I push it. I average around 54mpg this gives me a range to empty of 313 miles although I usually fill up between 250 and 275 this really upset my brother with the Goldwing. We took a week long trip through and around the Rockies here in Colorado and I topped off every time he did even though I didn't need to and my fuel bill for the trip (2000 miles) was about 60% of his. I just can't say enough good things about this bike.

Kevin

[Old Bull Lee]

I've been looking for a dual-sport bike for awhile now and have found this thread very informative. I've narrowed my choices down to the F650 Dakar or the Vstrom 650.

I plan on using the bike to tour Australia anticipating its use as 70%-80% on road, 20%-30% off-road. Also, I have to travel 2 miles of dirt/gravel track from home to get to a paved road. I've read a lot of praise for both bikes but am leaning towards the BMW because I think it's better suited for the dirt. If I was only going to go off-road occasionally, the Vstrom would be my first choice, and if I was going to go off-road most of the time I'd probably be looking at the KLR, but the F650 Dakar seems like a fair compromise.

Anyone agree? Disagree?

[ShadowRider]

In April of 2004 after completing an MSF class which I recommend for anyone who hasn't taken it, experienced or not. Like most new riders I looked on the internet to get some ideas. Even though I am new rider my passion goes back a long time. My final choice was the Honda Shadow Spirit 1100. I know this forum is for dualsport bikes I'll get to that shortly. The Shadow 1100 is a great bike I love it. If for whatever reason I had to replace the bike I would get the same bike again. Only one downside about the bike is its a bit heavy for a daily commutor. Which is why I am considering getting a 2nd bike not a replacement. This quest for a 2nd bike brings me to dualsport which brings me to either the Vstrom 650 or KLR650. I've pretty much narrowed it down to these 2 bikes. I am thinking more on the KLR650 side since I am keeping my shadow for long highway cruises. I think the KLR would be the better choice due to the better off road capabilities.

Given my scenario, what would you do?

[Larry Parrish]

I wish I could fit on the BMW it looks very cool and worth the $$$. I am 6'6" bare foot and need A tall bike and not to look like Herman Munster on one. The KLR was best for me out here in Michigan thumb area with all these dirt roads and lonely highways. I might want to go crazy and go 100 mph for a while then hit a trail and explore and abandoned farm house. The other 650s did not have a proven past of 20 years and I went for that. The BMW is far the best looking 650 I have ever seen and has cool features to. Wish I could fit.

[jared]

I haven't ridden a KLR, but it's probably a far, far better bike off road than the DL. The suspension on the DL is too stiff for anything but well-maintained asphalt...if you don't see a bump, you're going to wish you had, and you're going to remember where it was the next time you ride that stretch of road. Luckily, once you learn where the bumps are, the nice wide bars and upright riding position make it easy to pick your way through egregious road conditions. :) On a stretch of pavement, though, the DL has the grunt of an SV650 with a more confidence-inspiring posture. I just can't imagine a rotax thumper keeping up, in a KLR or any other frame.

The BMW GS is like a more expensive KLR with better stock componentry and way less available aftermarket. If in the long term you're going to do much more riding on road than off, with no real singletrack off road requirements, you should go with the DL. For acceptable performance on anything worse than flat dirt or wide fire roads, look into cartridge emulators for the front forks, better off-road tires, an engine guard of some description, and (if you have the money) an adjustable rear shock from either Works Performance or Ohlins. So equipped, a DL still comes in at roughly the price of the BMW, has similar off road ability (though still not that of a lightly modded KLR), solid reliability, and on road performance far better than a stock SV650. Better suspension is better everywhere. If you're going to be doing any singletrack-ish off roading, though, the KLR is probably the way to go. Lighter, better clearance, great aftermarket, reliable.

All that said, I haven't made a single mod to my DL, have ridden it (fearfully but without dumping it) off-street, and will probably never get rid of it no matter what I can afford in the future. The ugliness, the quiet at low speeds, the range, the scream of 10,000rpm from the SV motor, soldiering around town...it just sets the right kind of tone. :)

[Brian]

I have an 05 V-Strom 650, Sold the 05 KLR (my second one) after one 500mile DualSport ride on Suzuki. I ride very agressive offroad dual sport on this bike, and I DO know how to ride so I mean AGRESSIVE. I ride Motorcross on a KTM, and while I will not go out of my way to find a double or triple to jump on the DL650, it handled absolutely EVERYTHING I threw at it. I did do some mods. Continental Offroad (same size as the GS1150) knobbies were the very first change and frankly an absolute MUST... And I actually got better grip on road too. The stock tires blow on the street and are downright dangerous in the loose stuff, wants to swap ends in the sandy areas. After the tires, I installed a Crash bar and Skidplate combo to protect the exposed oilfilter and oil cooler, a definate must if you travel offroad. I added a Satellite Radio, grip heaters and Flexx bars with some real cushy Progrip gel handgrips just to make the guys I ride with on their KLR, XR, and DRs jealous (It worked!). The guy that ways that this bike only has a little more power and less torque than the KLR is an idiot. The KLR, even in modified form is a pig comared to this thing in all ways that matter (brakes, power, and handling), with technology from the early 80's compared to cutting edge FI, Triple disc brakes and Aluminum frame technology of the DL. Mark my words, there is no possible comparison between these 2 bikes in any way except that they both have two wheels. My KLR felt like a cheap piece Tiawanese built crap after only 700 miles. The KLR tires are terrible as well and must be changed too. The KLR has a ground clearance advantage and a travel advantage, but dont underestimate the DL offroad. Its truly a swissarmy knife.

[Chris]

Hi,
Good reading comments. I have had a DL650 for 6 weeks, and love it. Seem to find excuses to take it anywhere.
I am a touch short at 173cm, and 68kg, and find the height of the bike just a tad high. I was hoping it would drop after bedding in, as the salesman siad.
I read a couple of people have lowered the bike by a couple of centimeteres. I am keen to look at ways of achieving this myself. I have limited motorcycle knowledge, but am mechanically minded. (Hope that makes sense?).
If anyone can help me with details of what to do/try, and how it is done, I would appreciate hearing from you.
I previously rode a Honda CB250 for 3 years, so it's no wonder the DL650 is impressing me. I ride with a mate, who rides a 1200GS, and he is also impressed with the DL. As I am impressed with his GS.

Replies can be to email if you like.

Cheers
Chris

[dan]

i have 22300 miles on a 05 dl650,scorpion slip-on and bmg air filter, with an ivans tre.changed the fork oil to 12.5 wt.the only mods..im on my 3rd set of rear brake pads,still on stock fronts,,4th tire..3rd front..i ride to work every day...except two days it was snowing..i have had not one problem with this blke..i have more then 435000 miles on the street..from sr500's, rz350's to sv650-fz1's ducati's and daytona 955i's..but this suzuki is to fun...i think i will look for a big bore kit soon..but for anyone out there thinking of buying one go for it.....do..what i did to mod it..and sit back and ride...dont watch tv...ride man ride..oh the wind screen needs to be tilted back..(production flaw)put a couple washers in the bottom screw holes...rubber ones and tighten down to highest setting..worked for me...many roads

[Jeff]

I have had my DL650 for a month. I have been riding a year and this is my 6th bike to purchase. (4 4 me & 2 4 my son) I love this bike. One testimony that I see a lot in the "this bike, that bike" debate, is that many DL650 owners repurchase a second DL650. That speaks volumes!!

[Stuart]

I have had my DL650 for a year now, only done 6000km but jere goes anyway...I am under no illusions about the looks of this machine - they suck. But how about what it does? Well, on the road it handles very well, powerful enough (who needs supersport performance in the city?) to pull you along nicely. Steers like a dream, good brakes and reasonable economy.
Bad points? Its tall, but that doesnt bother me at 182 cm (6' in teh old money). But what does bother me is the stock screen - man that thing is worse than nothing at all - believe me I've tried it. It cause the worst buffeting I have ever had - in every position. I dont know what to do, I want to keep this bike but the constant headaches after an hour of riding at speed (anything over 100km/hr) are starting to give me severe doubts...I mean, I bought this nike to go round Australia! If anyone has any ideas about after market screens, I would be very grateful!
I have ridden mostly road with about 200 km of gravel road. Gravel roads are fine if you stand up and are careful feeding in the power. I tried a proper ungraded dirt track and that was a bit more challenging...although I stayed upright it was an effort. Avoid ruts is my advice unless you are a serious off road rider and used to muscling heavy machinery around. I rode 1600km of outback tracks in far north queensland a couple of years ago on a 250 and my idea of hell would be to take the DL650 on the same route. Dont even think about it. If you want to dpo that sort of thing buy the KTM950 Adventure - and learn to ride. HARD!

[David Sparks]

I purchased a DL650-K6 in July, 2 mi on it. As of 11/08/06, it now has 6500 miles on it! I've installed an automatic chain oiler (I designed), Givi 21" windscreen, handguards, Givi engine bars, Hot Grips, Givi luggage set (3), and cut out the center foam in the seat to add 1" of memory foam. It handles great, 55MPG, and the operating cost is very good. Lately, I've notice a mild surging at low RPMs. The TBs are sych'd to 1/2" of mercury deviation. All-in-all, it is a very good bike to own. I've taken it down many dirt roads and on a few dirt bike paths. It can be done by letting out about 1/2 your air pressure and unloading all your luggage. Still, it's a street bike with fireroad capabilities. I still have a few other modifications to make, but for the overall cost, it is the best bang for the buck! I sold my '99 BMW R1100RT (109,000 miles) and a 2000 Triumph Tiger 900 (20,000) and ended up buying this bike. Parts are very available, the cost is cheap, and accessability to the components is pretty simple. I would recommend this bike to the versitile rider. The speedsters wouldn't like it, nor would the HD crowd. But for Joe Schmoe like me, it's good to go!

[Tod]

I am trying to decide on the perfect bike to ride to Alaska on. I live in Washington now. My Father and I rode through WA, OR, ID, and Montana this summer. I was on my BMW 1150RT and he was on his VSTROM 650. He loves it, says it is the best bike he has ever owned. I have been looking at the VSTROM, KLR, F650GS/Dakar, and 1200 GS. After reading all of these opinions I am leaning towards the DL650, Thanks for the info. There is good info on VSTROM aftermarket farkles at http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/

[michael owens]

I got myself a new Dl 650 about 6 weeks ago & have done about 4000 km so far. Previous bike was a triumph sprint ST, 46k/km. I sometimes miss the the zing & tone of the Sprint but generally I'm very pleased with the 650, especially having the option of exploring off the asphault.
I'm a tall rider and find the V-strom the best fit of anything I've been on yet, including the BMW 1100GS,1150GS & 1200GSA. I've added a foam pad & sheepkin cover to raise the seat. A set of Oxford Hot Grips of course.
I've got a Laser exhaust on order and will also add a Givi windscreen (I'm finding the stock screen in the highest position adequate but V-strom riders tell me the Givi is worth the cost). I've put on Givi engine bars & suzuki hand guards.

Complaints ? Only minor ones : Rear brake lacks feel,ie., light pressure no response, firm pressure back wheel locked; handlebars a bit cheap & nasty, headlights look too big for the bike (I opened mine up & painted the 'eyebrow' bits matt black); I've yet to source a skid plate ( I worry about that exposed oil filter at the front, a skid plate should come stock on a 'dual purpose' bike).

It is a joy to ride & does everything I ask it to do. A brand new bike that does all of this for the selling price of my 7 year old Triumph !

[Marco]

When in Rome... I'm born in Rome, I live in Rome, I own a V-Strom DL-650 and I love it :-)

[Allan]

I curently own a Hyosung GT 650s - a 2004 with the smaller bars. This bike was good fun but as time goes by I want a more reliable bike. how is the vstrom in this department, can any of you compare it with my current bike.

[Zeeko]

Looking for some experienced insight on a bike decision. I will be heading off on a journey across half the US and as many square miles of South America as possible and will be buying my machine this spring. I have always heard and until now possibly, just assumed that a BMW was THE bike for long distance travel. Has anyone done much work on a v-strom? Can anyone attest to the longevity of the motor...after 50k miles? Known problems to expect on the road? Reliability and repair comparison's between carbs and injection? KLR's also have a reputation that proceeds them. I have also heard accounts of folks using XL650's but the air cooled motor in hot weather concerns me. Any thoughts on the Transalp? Thanks for the help.
-Jeremie

[Jerry]

Here I was thinking of the Yamaha YZF 600R as my next touring bike. I have owned in this order since 1992. Honda Magna 750, Ninja 1100, Gold Wing 1500, Kawasaki 1500, Kawasaki KLR 650, Kawasaki 1500 Bagger, BMW 1150 GS, Bajaj Chetak 150, Suzuki Burgman 650, Honda Reflex 250. I have rode all of these machines on long touring trips of 1,500 miles or more. On road,and off road. I am little crazy. If it has wheels it is meant to ride any where. I am in my 48th year of riding. May I die on 2 wheels somewhere on a trip. 39 Years ago when I was married, I owned so many motorcycles that my young bride asked if I had a motorcycle shop. I told her that they were all my toys.

[Richard]

I have a 1990 klr 250 with a bad rear shock.I looked around for one and was surpised to find out that the replacements start at 560.00 and up.Has anyone found a better price or solution?

[MARK R.]

I'M PLANNING A MICHIGAN TO LA TRIP THIS SPRING.I'M FIRING UP MY ACTING CAREER AFTER A SHORT 25 YEAR HIATUS(TOOK A WRONG TURN!!) I'M A DL 650 RIDER.ANY SUGGESTIONS OUT THERE? MARK

[Mickey_mouse_299]

You might find the reviewer's comments interesting at http://www.wheels.ca/Motorcycles/article/29907#