Our Bikes

Just a quick overview of our bikes, as well as a list of the modifications we have done to improve performance and comfort while on the 5000+ mile trail.

Left: 2016 DR after upgrades and aftermarket Parts. Right: Close to a stock 2006 DR650

As mentioned the previous post we have chosen to all ride DR650's for our journey. It seemed like the perfect big bike (comfort on the long easy stretches), as well as more maneuverable in the dirt than its large dual sport competitors. Pictured above is one completed bike ready for the journey and a bike that still needs all of the aftermarket upgrades installed. The idea is to have one all grey bike as well as one white bike for my dad and I to use. At this time its unclear which one I will ride and which one he will be keeping for himself. I going to leave the decision up to him, however I think the grey bike is one of the best looking DRs I have seen. We will see if they are able to stay this pretty over the course of the ride.

Stock Suzuki DR650SE Stats:

Production: 1990-

Engine: 644cc air cooled 4-stroke

Power: 46hp

Weight: 324lbs

Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gal

In order to turn the bikes from average dual sport toy to unstoppable adventure touring machines we had to install several aftermarket modifications. What went from a surprisingly cheap trip idea quickly became much pricier than we initially thought once all the gear and modifications were considered.

Upgrades

My dad as been hard at work making sure our bikes are ready for anything the TAT throws our way. We have left him with most of these decision making responsibilities for obvious reasons. So i am confident in saying that even if we are not physically prepared for the journey ahead our bikes certainly will be.

- Larger Tank: we chose Acerbis tanks to improve the bike range to 200+ to allow us to make it between the fueling stops along the route.

-Suspension upgrades- The front forks and rear suspension springs were upgraded to allow a stiffer more aggressive riding style as well as to keep the bike from bouncing us out of the saddle.

-Aftermarket Exhaust: we added FMF exhausts to increase power and performance.

-Tires: In order to make it through the various off-road conditions we will encounter the tires were replaced with a knobbier gripier tire.

-Hand Guards: Hand guards will provide protection for our hands from branches while riding as well as if we crash our bikes.

-Seats: Seat Concept seat recovering kits were installed to increase comfort while riding.

-Gearing: The bikes gearing has been loaded to increase low end power to allow increased performance at low speeds as well as help provide the power needed to easily power through thick mud, steep terrain, and loose sand. This will slightly decrease our over all top end speed by a couple MPH.

Carburetor: The floats and needles within the carburetors were modified to allow for quicker throttle response as well as a richer fuel mixture which will improve power and keep the bike preforming at optimal power while at high elevation. Not that I am able to wheelie at all but this should turn the DRs into Wheelie Machines!

Air Intake: The air intake hole was enlarged to allow the engine to breathe better which will help performance especially at altitude.

Racks: To carry all of our gear