Used 650, what year models are best?

[joelhanden]

I'm finally selling my '83 Honda XL600R. Still runs fine after all these years but I am upgrading to a DR 650. Can anyone tell me what different years a redesign occured and if there are certain year models to avoid. Thanks

[sdemondo]

For general model info, check:

http://www.suzukicycles.org/DR-series/DR650.shtml

Basically, 96-current is the same, just changes in colors. The suzuki site has info on the '08 and it's still the same bike (same colors as '07 just different tank decals).

I believe '90 was the 1st year, '91 minor mods, '92-95 are the same.

I don't think you can go wrong with anything '96-on. Not that the older ones were bad, but there's so many parts for the "current design" that it is an easy choice.

[adams]

if you really want to be anal about it 2003+ models have an updated base gasket as the older design was prone to leakage. Updated gaskets are identified with metal rivets on the corners of the base gasket.

[fl-cracker]

And the 97-98 models have a starter gear grenade like problem, totally correctable for $160 worth of parts (before the grenade goes off). And that PURPLE frame.

[joelhanden]

Hi. Thanks for the link. It is perfect for what I want to find out...Joel

[adams]

And the 97-98 models have a starter gear grenade like problem, totally correctable for $160 worth of parts (before the grenade goes off). And that PURPLE frame.

maybe the engineers designed a time release grenade to rid the world of marketing's purple frame fiasco.

[DrKtmkid]

WHAT THE HECKS WRONG WITH A PURPLE FRAME?!?!?!?!?! ?

I painted mine black.......

[fl-cracker]

WHAT THE HECKS WRONG WITH A PURPLE FRAME?!?!?!?!?! ?

I painted mine black.......

So your bikes' name is now "Formerly known as Prince"?