Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom test

Little Sister

It has now become a at Suzuki; the ranges of different are offered with different capacities. Their large dual sport motorcycle- the — is the latest model to to undergo this transformation- reduced this time 1000 to 650cc. The new Suzuki DL 650 is a road going trail of medium displacement that has the frame from its big sister with the brilliant 650SV the tiny roadster of the brand.

Lighter- but just as versatile as the V-Strom.

Esthetique: Practically

Aesthetically- little seperates the two trail bikes- also the 650 however proposes much riding- and benefits from all the GT that the larger bike The prominent rear-lights equally effeceincy like the "head assembly with its two large lamps and the amplitude of the windscreen excellent protection. The riding and the controls remain identical.

We however- the lack of a centre only offered as an option. argueably- should be standard on a of this type.

The pre-load of the rear suspension is adjustable by wheel and is a very addition that helps the equipment list for pampering with a well designed large handles to hold on and sufficient space for securing The small compartment under the only offers room for a U-type lock or the most of items.

Motorization: Considerably

The motor of the 650 SV- has received modifications increase the torque in the low to mid rev range. has been achieved with new modifified engine mapping and a exhaust fitted with a The radiator is also larger. The is also more docile a bit disappointing compared to the standard SV

The engine modifications improve its delivery- from 3000 to rpm-but it doessn-t have the vivacity or the liveliness in the higher The new configuration of the 650cc V-Twin some of its character- but not its usability and its charm. Losing some 8 hp in its the 645cc twin-cylinder churns out 66 with a torque of 6.1 mkg at 6400 Finally- the 22-litre petrol allows for long trips stops.

In normal riding conditions the the injected motor gives figures of around 6.2 liters per This gives a respectable 350km.

On the road: Agile and

20 kilos lighter- the mini 650 assaults tight bends a combination of vivacity- assurance and Light as a feather- it accelerates corner to corner in a wink of an eye little effort while and the rider to change lines confidence. The riding position the sqme- but the lower seat and the handling open the doors for a wider and less experimental than that of the 1000.

Its in town agility is remarkable- the of its chassis is clear and it is reassuringly under more sporting It also offers up an excellent holding while the others in the have difficulties combining all traits. Poor road and rough tracks pose no thanks to a very good of suspension.

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