Has anyone with a first production run DS650 ridden a second production run DS650? I did and it seemed like I was riding a different ATV! The motor ran smooth, had great throttle response, had lowend power, had good steering and handling, had no vibration, seemed to get more traction. I tried to get information on the differences between the two from the dealer and they were of no help. I asked them about the jetting update and they said there wasn't one.

 

There ARE tremendous differences in the early to late model productions of the bike. I just got off the phone with the Canadian dealer whom I bought my bike through and he informed me of such. I pick my bike up tomorrow, I'll let you know.

BTW, in Canada the bike only cost me $6068!!! WOOOHOO! It's great to be an American!

'87 Mojave
'87 Tecate
'00 DS650 [Bigger IS Better]

 

KawasakiKid, What are the specifics? If I am going to end up being stuck with a lower performing bike, I will sell it in no time at all, before the resale value drops. Hopefully, I can set mine up like the newer DS650s. There is info available on the 2001 DS650 from the dealer. New tires, not sure what else.

 

Well, I spoke with someone at Bombardier and the Dealer, both really told me the same thing...

Newer models have different carb jetting, axle torque issue has been resolved, and air hose from carb to airbox resolved/replaced.

No huge changes, tweaks really.

BTW, ran into some trouble here at work, I'll be picking my DS up this Saturday.

Green is Mean
'87 Mojave
'87 Tecate
'00 DS650 [Bigger IS Better]

 

Well I'm pissed at Bombardier for not issuing notices to dealers to update the first production models to match the second production models. I had a dealer take down my serial number and enter into the computer database to do a search for updates. Nothing came up on carb jetting!!! The 2nd production models run much smoother and have more lowend power.

 

KawasakiKid, Who are you talking to at Bombardier? Whenever I call Bombardier direct they won't give me information and say I have to have the dealer call them. I called my dealer and had them call Alex a technician at Bombardier. Alex told my dealer that there are no changes to jetting or hoses or air filters. I don't believe it though. But that leaves me stuck. If I don't know the exact changes, I can't implement them.

 

Actually the Dealer I bought my bike from KNEW about the issues. I'm unaware if the manufacturer informed them of these issues or not.

Regarding any comment from Bombardier, I spoke with a sales rep via e-mail regarding any changes for the 2001 models. I informed him of some known current issues (i.e. steering, carb, & axle). He informed me that carb issues were updated on later model DS's, steering is a matter of opinion, and axle issues were also fixed in later models (due to inaccurate torque specs).

Regarding the dealer, they informed me of the air tubes fromt he carb to the box (which I had no idea about and the sales rep from Bombardier failed to mention). They told me they would ensure my bike was updated, then later told me I had one of the later bikes that was already fixed. He checked this by the serial number.

I hate to tell you this Scooby, but it sure does sound like you happen to have picked a lemon. Occasionaly it happens, I would sell the bike (I'm sure you'll find someone to take over the payements or give you what you owe on it) and just buy another.

'87 Mojave
'87 Tecate
'00 DS650 [Bigger IS Better]

 

The problem turned out to be the RW stage one kit. When I restored the DS to stock from, it runs much better - smoother, faster and with no vibration. Also, I was running to much air pressure in the tires. The suspension can be adjusted to improve handling.

 

BTW, I picked my DS up last Saturday and went riding with my friend and his 250r 3-wheeler. God I love my DS! This thing has SO much torque and will climb anything!

'87 Mojave
'87 Tecate
'00 DS650 [Bigger IS Better]

 

when did they start releasing the second production DS's the date on mine is feb 2000.