Scoresheet
5
5
5
4
5
5
5
5
5
I put 3700 miles on this bike. Some of the great features are: the engine is quite smooth until you get over about 85 then there is a little vibration, it handles well in the twisties, 250+ miles per gas fill, very reliable, comfortable upright position, fast - at 70 hit the gas and this thing really takes off, stable at high speed, looks cool. I can ride 300 miles in reasonable comfort on this bike.
There are several extras that I strongly recommend. One is crashbars - if you knock the bike over you don't break your turn signal. A better windscreen, especially the MRA with the touring lip is wonderful for buffeting. A center stand make working on the bike so much easier.
Cons to the bike: It is top heavy which means that if I knock the bike over, I can't pick it up myself.
Scoresheet
5
3
5
3
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5
4
4
5
I bought my 2009 DL650 in September, and have since ridden 1400 enjoyable miles. I previously owned American heavyweights, and grew less confident with the mass and bulk. V-Strom is agile and can keep up with the cruisers I previously rode. Engine is strong, bulletproof, but lacks the throaty rumble I grew to love. Overall, very satisfied. I would recommend.
