Suzuki 650cc V-Strom too much for a beginner?

[cmiych]

Hello.  I'm glad to have found your community.  Hopefully you can help guide me in the right direction and make some informed choices as I venture in this wonderful world.  I've been reading through these forums over the past week, and I'll be honest, alot of the specifics of particular bikes have begun to run together.  Aesthetically, and pragmatically, the  Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom seems to fit exactly what I'm looking for in a bike.  This will be a first bike for me.  I have seen people recommend certain 600cc and 650cc bikes, but gasp at the thought of others for a beginner.  Which category does this fall into? Will this bike be too much for me? Is it even remotely considered a beginners bike? I am a 23 yo male, 5'11 and 191 lbs.   If I am pushing the limits too far, what are some good alternatives?  The proportions of the bike are not only very visually pleasing, but seem very stable.  I will be using the bike primarily on highways as a commuter (with the occasion recreational drive through the CA canyons of course).   I would love a bike on the lighter side to get started.  I do want a bike that I can easily handle.  I want to clarify, I AM NOT looking for a high performance sport bike.  I am not that guy.  FYI, due to financial constraints, I would hope whatever entry bike I choose would last me in the 4-5 year range rather than 2-3.  Reliability and repair cost is also important for similar reasons.  This is not a "toy buy" as much for me.  It does have some fun perks of course, but I currently drive a '95 Chevy pickup... in OC... 45 mile commute for work in that = NOT fun.  Any suggestions for me?

[cmiych]

Followup:

Just wanted to put this in as well.  Thank you all for having such an amazing community.  Per your suggestions, I have also developed an interest in the Suzuki SV650.  I'll be honest, I never really pegged myself for a traditional guy, but the Kawasaki Vulcan is absolutely beautiful.  Would either of these be a significantly better option?  I heard "cruiser" style bikes are not recommended for beginners.  Does the Vulcan fall into that category? So many options, so many beautiful bikes...  Thanks in advance for all your help.

[bogfro]

What type of riding experience do you have?  I'd say if you have ridden a few hundred miles on the street, know how to shift, turn, brake, etc..... then the DL650 should be fine for you.  Just make sure your very FIRST experience on the street is on something else.  I started on a Kawi EX250, and rode it for 2300 miles before getting my V-Strom.  But in reality, I could have avoided a lot of the annoyances of that 250 by switching much sooner.  Reflecting on my own experience, I probably could have switched to the 650 after just a few day rides on the 250.  For riding on the interstate, you really need something with enough power to get you out of certain situations......something the 250 wasn't capable of.  I intend on keeping my V-Strom until it dies....in my opinion it's the rider, not the bike, that makes the difference.  The V-Strom is very comfortable, ergonomic, maneuverable, and has plenty of power for any real-world application.  I like the "up-high" seating position, because it makes for good visibility and control.  The mirrors are great, and the headlight is bright.  It's extremely fun on curvy roads (with something other than the stock tires), and fully capable of going on some light duty dirt and gravel.

I'm 6'0", 170 lb, and this bike fits me perfectly.  I've had it since February, and have averaged riding it over 70 miles per day since then.

The SV650 might feel a little cramped for someone who's 5'11", but I've never actually ridden one so I can't say for sure.  That bike has the same motor as the DL650.  I'd stick with a bike like this over ANY cruiser.

[cmiych]

Thanks for the input.  I'm still a little cautious about it.  My riding experience is minimal.  Growing up in the Southeast, I would ride a dirtbike from time to time down trails in the woods, but never owned one or truly developed the skill.  Other than that, I'm limited to parking lots on a buddy's Honda Shadow during college.  Been mountain biking most of my life, but I don't know if that's at all relevant.  I want to make sure I don't overextend myself, but do catch on to things very quickly even in regard to muscle memory (I'm basing that on my exp with freestyle wrestling and music).  Initially I wont be on the interstates (for about 6 months) because of the permit restrictions in CA for a new M1/2 approval.

Edit: I don't know if its relevant... at all... but I have driven nothing but a manual transmission my whole life, I am not concerned about that aspect.  I am familiar with basic physical principles of riding, but lack extensive hands on application.

[bogfro]

Thanks for the input.  I'm still a little cautious about it.  My riding experience is minimal.  Growing up in the Southeast, I would ride a dirtbike from time to time down trails in the woods, but never owned one or truly developed the skill.  Been mountain biking most of my life, but I don't know if that's at all relevant.  I want to make sure I don't overextend myself, but do catch on to things very quickly even in regard to muscle memory (I'm basing that on my exp with freestyle wrestling and music).  Initially I wont be on the interstates (for about 6 months) because of the permit restrictions in CA for a new M1/2 approval.

Edit: I don't know if its relevant... at all... but I have driven nothing but a manual transmission my whole life, I am not concerned about that aspect.  I am familiar with basic physical principles of riding, but lack extensive hands on application.

I also crossed over from mountain biking, and yes that's VERY relevant in my opinion.  I think I would have had a much harder time, if I didn't have all the previous mountain bike experience.  Also, driving a manual transmission car, in my opinion, is VERY relevant as well.  I also drove nothing but manuals, and I think that really put me ahead of the game, too.  Shifting and clutching was something I never really had to think about too much when getting into motorcycling.

That sucks you won't be able to ride the interstates for 6 months....... I went on one my 3rd ride on the 250!!!

Take the MSF course, and then I'd suggest renting or borrowing a street legal 250 for a couple days.  See what you think, and I bet then you'd be ready for the DL650.  Be sure to wear good gear.  Enjoy!

[cmiych]

I think for the first time in my life, I just got "giddy."  I am DEFINATELY planning on taking the course, hopefully within the next month or so. The various stunt driving courses, when I first got my drivers license were very helpful and informative.  I can only imagine this would be 100x so.  I've been trying to be conservative as I laid out what bikes I would consider, and expected I had reached too far.  Renting a smaller bike for a few days is clearly a good idea.  Any other last minute advice you'd give an aspiring rider (other than in the standard safety regards?)

[Sarchi]

Any other last minute advice you'd give an aspiring rider (other than in the standard safety regards?)

Do it!

Read a lot, talk to other riders, understand why people crash, ride with responsible people, stay away from group rides with idiots.  Stay within your own limits and what you're comfortable with.  Invest in good gear and wear it.  You sound pretty mature, you should be fine.  

Personally I would go for a Versys over the VStrom, but that's just personal preference.  

[cmiych]

Thanks!  I looked at the Versys, and it may be just idle vanity, but the vstrom is just "prettier" to me.  I'll keep the recommendation in mind though when I go actually check them out.  Who knows where the road may take me.  Either of you (or anyone else) have any CONCERNS with the vstrom?

[bogfro]

Any other last minute advice you'd give an aspiring rider (other than in the standard safety regards?)

Read "Proficient Motorcycling" by David Hough cover-to-cover before starting.  It talks about why motorcyclists crash, and how you can avoid it.  Since reading that book, I practice those traffic management techniques in my car, every time I drive.  Things like being aware of when other vehicles are likely to pull out or turn in front of you, safe lane positioning, checking behind you to make sure you don't get rear-ended, not pacing other vehicles, etc.  It will really open your eyes to traffic management situations specific to motorcycling.

There's lots of other good books out there you can read, but I'd start with the best one first.

[Sarchi]

Thanks!  I looked at the Versys, and it may be just idle vanity, but the vstrom is just "prettier" to me.  I'll keep the recommendation in mind though when I go actually check them out.  Who knows where the road may take me.  Either of you (or anyone else) have any CONCERNS with the vstrom?

The 650 VStrom is a well respected bike, I don't think it has any big issues.  I actually like the way it looks too.  I test rode one about six months after I started riding, I just didn't really like the way it made power (very spinny motor), I imagined I'd have to be shifting a lot in town.  It might've just been me, but I didn't gel with that bike.  Now I have a twin and maybe I'd react differently.  I like the Versys based on sitting on it in the showroom, it fits my tall self well and I like that it has a more sportbike bent (17" wheels etc), since I don't really go off road.  Haven't had a chance to ride one yet tho.

[UHOH]

yeah try to get a little experience (MSF course?) in a 150-250 ish bike: balance, leaning, steering, braking

V strom 650 would seem good for you, should last for a long time.

also, V-strom has an engine guard available (friend has one) and this would be a good option
 to protect the bikes good looks in the event of a parking lot tip-over  ...

[cmiych]

UHOH,
I will certainly be getting the engine guard.  Thank you all for your input.

And I'll be going to get that book tonight.  I'll read it over the weekend... that is if I don't get to distracted window shopping  

[mygala]

Aesthetically, and pragmatically, the  Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom seems to fit exactly what I'm looking for in a bike.  

Aesthetically?!?!  Seriously? You're LOOKING for a bike that is as "aesthetically" pleasing as V-strom?

Now don't get me wrong. They're great bikes, they do damn near everything well, ...but buying them for their looks?  

[cmiych]

Mygala, you're right.  I won't get one.

Followup Edit:  I do like the looks.  As i said, the proportions just seem to fit.  I like the way the bike presented itself to me.  I'm not saying its the most beautiful bike I've ever seen.  But its an appealing and appropriate presentation on top of the fact that it seems to do exactly what I want/need from my first bike.  And among the comparable options... yea - it's perfect.  I would make an analogy to my taste in women, but I figure I'll keep the thread as civil as possible.  Although in re-reading this paragraph, I guess I kinda already did.  

[highside]

Everything is too much for a beginner. No matter what you will be in over-your-head, thats the only way to learn how to do anything. That said, I think the V-Strom is a fine choice. Its an easy bike to ride and a lot of fun. Just be careful and remember that the moment where you actually think you know what your doing is the most dangerous time, cause thats when you can get really hurt.

[bogfro]

Aesthetically?!?!  Seriously? You're LOOKING for a bike that is as "aesthetically" pleasing as V-strom?

Now don't get me wrong. They're great bikes, they do damn near everything well, ...but buying them for their looks?  

And they look even sexier once you get them covered with bugs and dust!    

[birdrunner]

Thanks!  I looked at the Versys, and it may be just idle vanity, but the vstrom is just "prettier" to me.  

Those are words I thought I'd never hear.  

I think the Strom would be just about perfect btw.

[The Shepherd]

The Wee-Strom is a good all around bike. It has an engine that produces enough power but is not overwhelming, is surprisingly good in the corners, rock solid reliabile and cheap. I'd think it would make a great started bike for someone.

Check out www.stromtrooper.com for alot more info on the bike.

[guitardad]

This is kinda a hard question.  Sme bikes it's easy to say, "No way!" and others are clearly easy for beginners to handle.  The Wee-Strom is too much bike for SOME new riders - others would do just fine.  So I can't really tell you without having you in my class.  Here's some food for thought, though.  The bike you'll ride in you class (if it's a typical 250) will have around 20 hp, and weigh around 300 pounds.  The Wee weighs close to 500 pounds, and has about 70 hp.  So once you get that experience base in class, ask yourself how big a jump from that bike you're really ready to take.

One last thing to consider - it's pretty common to buy a small beginner bike used, ride it for 6 months to a year, and sell it for what you paid.  About as close to a "free" bike as you'll ever get.  I understand not wanting to lose a lot of money on a short-time bike, but if you do it right it can work out real well.

[Zerosum]

Coming to this thread a little late... there's some good advice here.  In my opinion, if you're okay with the height of the V-Strom, and have some motorcycle experience, you'll be fine starting on one.

I used to think that any 650 twin was too much for a beginning rider, but after owning a V-Strom for a year, I changed my tune.  Unlike other 650 twins like the SV or the Hawk GT, it's tuned for a little more mid-range power and a little less off-the-line grunt.  So, in terms of power output, the bike is very tame and beginner-friendly.  At 3-4K RPM, it's a pretty tame, docile bike.  It "wakes up" at around 5K RPM, and pulls nicely up until around 8K RPM.  So, unlike the SV, there's a wider band of "tame" power for a new rider to say within.

It's a superb commuter bike, IMO.  The luggage rack can accept a trunk with ease (virtually every other bike requires you to buy a rack separately).  The wind protection is fine.  (Not great, but adequate.)  It's very light and maneuverable.  It looks top-heavy, but it really isn't.  The height of the bike does virtually nothing to its ability to handle, IMO.  I ride this thing every bit as hard as I ride my Hawk or VFR.

As for the whole "aesthetics" thing, WTF ever.  I'm tired of this "pile on" effect of everyone bashing the bike's appearance.  I like the way it looks.  It's Form is defined by it's Function, not the other way around.  It's tall and affords the rider with excellent visibility.  It's 19" front wheel and long-travel suspension allows you to eat potholes for breakfast.  It's a visually imposing bike that gets noticed in traffic.  It has the best stock headlight on the market.  If you're an engineer-type who thinks functional things are inherently good-looking and doesn't care what other people think, you'll think this bike is good looking.

This bike is so fun and so useful, I think that anyone who finds themselves thinking seriously about one should just get one.  The chances are very great that you'll love it.  If you don't believe me, go shopping for a used one... you'll notice that used ones are pretty hard to come by! :P

Here's mine, all outfitted for "sport commuting"

[Brains67]

i passed my test 2 years ago and bought the vstrom a week later. I've ridden 14,000 miles and had 1 minor 'off' due to grabbing too much brake when someone pulled out on me.

This is a pretty heavy bike and, because its upright, the centre of gravity is pretty high. this wont be a problem at speed but if you drop it, you wont catch it. I'm 6'3" and 230 pounds and dropped it twice.

I love this bike and will never sell - even if i buy something else.

I think if you have the right attitude and ride sensibly most bikes would be fine. The engine between your ears is more important than the 1 between your knees.

2 pointers.  1. don't ride with side boxes unless you really need to. they are very wide and easily forgotten.
                2. get a bike with a center stand - its so much easier to maintain that way - my one doesn't and its real pain.
Safe Riding

[jbmvienna]

Great thread - thanks for the input.  I'm looking at moving over from a Burgman 400 - getting the itch to shift for myself.  I have done the MSF course but will probably do the advanced course after getting my sea legs on the new bike.  Any input from the crowd on whether the 1000cc model is too much power for a relative novice?

[jstark47]

Great thread - thanks for the input.  I'm looking at moving over from a Burgman 400 - getting the itch to shift for myself.  I have done the MSF course but will probably do the advanced course after getting my sea legs on the new bike.  Any input from the crowd on whether the 1000cc model is too much power for a relative novice?

If the Burgman is the only bike you've ridden, then I would say a DL1000 is too much.  The power's reasonable if you keep the revs under 5K, but the weight and the high center of gravity can be unforgiving if you're used to a bike that has its engine on the swingarm.  And if you rev it and drop the clutch, it will wheelie quite handily.  You don't need the distraction of managing that high CoG while you're also learning the clutch and gears.  I would beg, borrow, or steal something lower and/or lighter to make your transition.  

If you already have mastered shifting on a motorcycle, then ignore this and have at it.

[Zerosum]

Any input from the crowd on whether the 1000cc model is too much power for a relative novice?

Yes, absolutely.  Too much weight, too much power, too much torque, too much bike.  A bike like that is a "third" or "fourth" bike.  Get the 650.

[Fourstring]

Great thread - thanks for the input.  I'm looking at moving over from a Burgman 400 - getting the itch to shift for myself.  I have done the MSF course but will probably do the advanced course after getting my sea legs on the new bike.  Any input from the crowd on whether the 1000cc model is too much power for a relative novice?

What Jstark said.

My first bike was a Burg 400, followed by a '91 Concours.  Although 1000cc, it was also heavy and old tech, mitigating the power equation somewhat.  A 650 like the Ninja or SV would be a better route.  That's what my wife did, and now she's a better rider than me.

[cmiych]

I appreciate all the input.  I've done some shopping around and have decided that this IS the right bike for me.  Gotta take the class, and gonna hold off about 2 months to make sure my finances are in order, then I'll be a proud Vstrom owner! Form follows function... well said....

[coorsleftfield]

My only concern about the Vstrom 650 as a first bike is that it's pretty tall. My friend bought one for his first bike and dropped it several times. Not that dropping a bike is the end of the world or anything. Just be aware, you will drop your first bike, possibly several times. Some people like to do this with a used bike, and then move up to something new and shiny after they have a few thousand miles under their belt.

[Crosfire]

Hi i just roll in the internet and i see your ? so i think it is the best choise to get one Suzuki V-Strom DL650cc ABS i have this bike !!!!! i had many bikes before but i will have this until i die this is the best bike ever i am from EUROPA 185sm 160KG. i am happy its very cheap bike i make tripe 1340km fore a 4.5liters per 100km very strong have good torq i put all the extras in to the bike the engine roll bars the engine shield the hands Shields change the mirrors to see bether i put mirrors from Kawasaki Z750 its mach very good... its the best bike for a beginner the only thing you need to do is to change the tires the stock is just like ice in the winter. ask if you need some tips but you will see in the moment you seat on this bike i will the first and the last bike you gonna buy!!!!! its like a toy but very strong toy...... i travel 60km every day to work and i am happy every time i go to my work with smile because of this bike!!! and get the bike with the ABS system it's just save lives...... i have this bike about 6 mounts i have made 24000km and every time its fun corners,fast ride,slow ride,go for a Coffey,take your girlfriend to her job........... you name it every time is a fun and save!!!!! GOOD LUCK MY FRIEND AND MAKE THE RIGHT CHOISE V-Strom DL650cc ABS System

[Paul Barnard]

Coming to this thread a little late... there's some good advice here.  In my opinion, if you're okay with the height of the V-Strom, and have some motorcycle experience, you'll be fine starting on one.

I used to think that any 650 twin was too much for a beginning rider, but after owning a V-Strom for a year, I changed my tune.  Unlike other 650 twins like the SV or the Hawk GT, it's tuned for a little more mid-range power and a little less off-the-line grunt.  So, in terms of power output, the bike is very tame and beginner-friendly.  At 3-4K RPM, it's a pretty tame, docile bike.  It "wakes up" at around 5K RPM, and pulls nicely up until around 8K RPM.  So, unlike the SV, there's a wider band of "tame" power for a new rider to say within.

It's a superb commuter bike, IMO.  The luggage rack can accept a trunk with ease (virtually every other bike requires you to buy a rack separately).  The wind protection is fine.  (Not great, but adequate.)  It's very light and maneuverable.  It looks top-heavy, but it really isn't.  The height of the bike does virtually nothing to its ability to handle, IMO.  I ride this thing every bit as hard as I ride my Hawk or VFR.

As for the whole "aesthetics" thing, WTF ever.  I'm tired of this "pile on" effect of everyone bashing the bike's appearance.  I like the way it looks.  It's Form is defined by it's Function, not the other way around.  It's tall and affords the rider with excellent visibility.  It's 19" front wheel and long-travel suspension allows you to eat potholes for breakfast.  It's a visually imposing bike that gets noticed in traffic.  It has the best stock headlight on the market.  If you're an engineer-type who thinks functional things are inherently good-looking and doesn't care what other people think, you'll think this bike is good looking.

This bike is so fun and so useful, I think that anyone who finds themselves thinking seriously about one should just get one.  The chances are very great that you'll love it.  If you don't believe me, go shopping for a used one... you'll notice that used ones are pretty hard to come by! :P

Here's mine, all outfitted for "sport commuting"

If only Suzuki had the wind management issue down it would be the perfect bike.

[erda]

I have (soon to be had) a DL650SEAK9. It is my second bike and I've been riding for 2 years now. One issue about this bike, aside from the "buffeting" issue, is how it is affected by wind. I found that in gusty cross wind conditions it acts like a big sail. Be prepared to get moved around a lot   By comparison, my Ninja 500 is like a hot knife through butter. Yes the wind affects it, but no where near the same amount. Tall, relatively light bike, with relatively skinny tires.
2 more sleeps until I pick up my Bandit 1250S.
erda

[bogfro]

I have (soon to be had) a DL650SEAK9. It is my second bike and I've been riding for 2 years now. One issue about this bike, aside from the "buffeting" issue, is how it is affected by wind. I found that in gusty cross wind conditions it acts like a big sail. Be prepared to get moved around a lot   By comparison, my Ninja 500 is like a hot knife through butter. Yes the wind affects it, but no where near the same amount. Tall, relatively light bike, with relatively skinny tires.
2 more sleeps until I pick up my Bandit 1250S.
erda

Really??  I hardly notice this "buffeting" and "wind sailing" issue......has never been a problem for me.  If you want buffeting and wind sailing, ride a Ninja 250!!

[Zerosum]

Really??  I hardly notice this "buffeting" and "wind sailing" issue......has never been a problem for me.  If you want buffeting and wind sailing, ride a Ninja 250!!

Come over to MD and cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge sometime!    I did this on a windy day back in October.  It was educational, to say the least!  

But yeah, under normal circumstances, I don't think it's a problem.  Maybe if you live on the prarries or something it is.

[Paul Barnard]

The vast majority of V-Strom riders notice appreciable "sail" when riding in gusty cross wind conditions.  I wanted to love the Strom, ugly though it was.  The ergos were awesome, handling in the twisties was great, fuel economy and range were superb, it was a capable fire road explorer and it had all the power I ever wanted and made that power in a very predictable satisfying manner.  I would get off of it after an extended stretch and feel as though my head had been in a paint shaker.  It literally scrambled my brain.  Three different wind screens didn't help.  I never tried the Madstad.  It gets good reviews.

[McHack]

Too MUCH for a beginner?   I'm an SV650S owner,  & I'd think it has the potential to be cumbersome as a starter bike, because its tall.   I wouldnt, & there is enough power to get into trouble.  

IMHO,  spend a month on a true beginner bike,  & then see how comfortable you are.

[Zerosum]

I never tried the Madstad.  It gets good reviews.

Yeah, I want to get one of those.  Unfortunately, I've already blown my farkle budget on better riding gear.    It seems expensive for what it is, but that's always the case with niche hardware like this.  Fewer people to spread the tooling costs among.

[Baz]

In all honesty, you will become a better rider spending a season or two on an SV-650 instead. The Wee Strom, while a fine bike, is pretty tall and somewhat heavy to learn on. I would bet that you would build confidence faster on the SV-650.

Most people who decide to start out on the Vee's & Wee's tend to drop them an awful lot at low speed manovers, due to the weight & height of the bikes.

[vaio]

Was considering getting a GS500e. Found the GS of my choice. 2 days before picking up I stumble on a craigslist ad for a 99 sv650. Sick deal. I pounced on it. 2 weeks into it, I am loving this bike. Not too heavy and enough power that you won't get bored but you can also learn in leaps and bounds. I have yet to take it past 80mph but thats because Im spending most of my time getting used to the bike and really trying to develop my skills. I dont need to go past 80mph to do that. I think I made a great choice going for the sv. It has been my dream bike and has been very user friendly thus far. Loving being able to practice and develop my cornering skills. I totally respect the bike and I think thats extremely important in developing the skills truly master this bike.

[Allan]

The V-Strom is the SUV of the motorcycle world. Its a go anywhere do anything bike. The biggest downside for a beginner might be height. But at 5' 11" you will probably be OK getting both feet on the ground. I would defiantly test sit though.

One of the great things about the V-Strom is the aftermarket. You can make it a very trail ready adventure tourer, or set it up to rack up the open road miles by the thousands, they have even been spotted at a track day although that would be pushing it a bit.

I love mine and as some bikes come and go, I certainly see my V-Strom always being there as a reliable bike I can always count on to take me where I need to go.

I would also recommend the MadStad windshield mount if you have wind issues.

[Zerosum]

Hey, Allan, I notice that you and I have the same bikes... just curious, how do the miles spread between the two of them for you?  

I hardly ever rode my VFR untill I put luggage racks on it, now I split the mileage about 60/40 in favor of the V-Strom.

[Jeremy Z]

DL650 is a great bike.

I started on an SV650, when they were still carbureted, before there was an "S" version, and before DL650s came out. The DL has the same engine. It is one of the best engines in the motorcycle world, IMHO. I put 36000 miles on mine. I had to sell it when the chain broke and cracked the crankcase; I couldn't afford to fix it. My bad, I should've changed it at 15k instead of just "keeping an eye on it."

It has enough torque & power to be entertainingly quick, but not so big & powerful that it isn't fuel efficient. (they get 55 mpg, where the DL1000s only get 35-40) It is also relatively light. This sounds dumb, but it is also not such a speed demon that you'll always find yourself in trouble. With liter+ bikes, one has to keep a very close on on one's speed.

For someone of your height, the DL would be a better choice; an SV will have your legs folded up a bit too much. (I'm assuming you're at least a 32" inseam, being 5'11" tall)

I think it looks good but not great. But I happily gave up some of the good looks for the long-travel suspension. It is just brilliant; so comfortable. The riding position is also brilliant. (I went from an FJR to a KLR for partly this reason)

One piece of advice: DO pop for the ABS. Not only does this make the bike more beginner friendly, but it makes it more useful on any loose surface. Not only that, but even an experienced rider will occasionally grab too much brakes when he finds a deer suddenly in front of him. It only has to work once to pay for itself.

Other things you'll probably want to invest in:

- A Givi topcase (I have a V46)

- A tankbag with map pocket

- An aftermarket saddle (Russells are the most comfortable, Sargents are the most affordable.)  As stock saddles go, the DLs isn't horrible.  But on a scale of 1 to 10, it is still only a 3 or 4. Corbins are rock hard, and you lose some benefit of the long-travel suspension because of that.

- A throttle lock, if you're going to be doing long stints on the expressways.