I had been wanting to get back on a motorcycle for some time. I live in a country setting with plenty of gravel roads, and also spend a fair amount of time in Canada where there are a lot of logging and gravel roads, I had been looking at dual sports. Problem is, most enduro type dual sports are far better suited for mostly dirt and limited pavement, and I needed the opposite mix. After doing some research and following a V-Strom forum on-line, I decided to go with the DL650.
Power is ample for 99% of the riding I would ever do. If I did a lot of highway commuting 2-up, I might consider the DL1000, but the 650 can keep up comfortably on the highway, and can cruise all afternoon at 90 without breaking a sweat.
This bike leaves you looking forward to twisties, and eats up rough pavement without hesitation. I have taken it on gravel roads (some of which barely qualify as roads), and it has handled them well enough with stock tires. If I was going to do a lot of trail/dirt road riding, I might consider getting more suitable tires. But for a bike that has a 478 pound curb weight (closer to 500 with accessories I have installed), it is incredibly nimble and easy to manage. As a side note, I have added an aftermarket fork brace to help improve handling in strong cross-winds and on rough pavement, and it helps immensely.
I have been averaging about 48 mpg so far, but I also haven't been doing a lot of straight highway riding, and it's way too fun to twist the throttle on this machine.
If you are looking for a bike that you can ride to work during the week and then take on a camping expedition for the weekend, the V-Strom rocks!
Upgrades/Accessories: SW Motech engine guards, skid plate, and center stand, Acerbis hand guards, fork brace
Reviews are provided on an "as is" basis with no warranty and should be considered entertainment only. Reviews should not be used for any purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to, making decisions about any referenced vehicles, products, modifications or other information.
