The little V-Strom continues to impress me. I recently took it on an 8 day adventure encompassing 2200+ miles. On the highway when I was running 75-85 I averaged "only" around 47-49 MPG. Riding through some twisty bits in NC I averaged near 60. That was after 150 miles or so of mostly 3rd gear, 6-9k RPM, wide open throttle, back on the brakes type riding. That day I had just the top box on. When I got the "low" mileage on the highway I had top box plus the super-wide Hepcko Becker bags on.
i must admit, though, that I'm not in love with the seat. t is great for 150 miles or so, but then it turns. It turns ugly, and it turns ugly fast. Like someone flips a switch fast. One second its fine, the next I'm thinking about ways to improve the seat. I did put my Alaskan Leather sheepskin on it, and it dulled the pain, but didn't make it a whole lot better. I might have to look at the aftermarket offerings next year.
Overall for me the DL650 is still a fantastic ride. The engine just sings. It doesn't sing loudly, and doesn't have a very deep voice, but its a hard worker.
i must admit, though, that I'm not in love with the seat. t is great for 150 miles or so, but then it turns. It turns ugly, and it turns ugly fast. Like someone flips a switch fast. One second its fine, the next I'm thinking about ways to improve the seat. I did put my Alaskan Leather sheepskin on it, and it dulled the pain, but didn't make it a whole lot better. I might have to look at the aftermarket offerings next year.
Overall for me the DL650 is still a fantastic ride. The engine just sings. It doesn't sing loudly, and doesn't have a very deep voice, but its a hard worker.
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