Photo: Carsamar · CC BY-SA 4.0
Kawasaki KLR650
75/100 Overall
77 On the road73 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KLR650 vs Suzuki DR600 Dakar
Kawasaki KLR650 scores 75/100 overall against Suzuki DR600 Dakar on 78/100. On the road: 77–73. As classics: 73–83. Overall result: Suzuki DR600 Dakar.
Photo: decalmoto · Public domain
Suzuki DR600 Dakar
78/100 Overall
73 On the road83 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki KLR650 | Suzuki DR600 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki DR600 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki DR600 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 6 | 8 | Suzuki DR600 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki DR600 |
Choose the Kawasaki KLR650 if…
you want durable, practical long-distance trail-bike ownership with excellent parts support and uncomplicated character.
Choose the Suzuki DR600 if…
you want robust big-single trail ability, useful road range and unmistakable 1980s Dakar styling.
Background
History
Kawasaki KLR650
The Kawasaki KLR650 was produced from 1987–2007 and used a 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability and character. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Suzuki DR600
The Suzuki DR600 Dakar was produced from 1984–1989 and used a 589cc air/oil-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, ownership appeal and collector appeal. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki KLR650
- Its production span in this library runs from 1987 to 2007.
- The recorded engine description is: 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability and character.
Suzuki DR600
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 589cc air/oil-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, ownership appeal and collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki KLR650
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KLR650. Its library score for ownership appeal is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki DR600
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki DR600 Dakar. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Kawasaki KLR650
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki DR600
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Kawasaki KLR650
Rivals to the Suzuki DR600
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KLR650 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Suzuki DR600 Dakar wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki DR600 Dakar takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.