I love my LT500, but am ready for electric start and 12" of wheel travel.

I have questions for you DS650 owners

1. How heavy is this pig (and I don't mean tell me the weight of the machine)? I know it weighs around 60 pounds more than my 500, but does it feel like it?

2. My favorite dune activity is jumping. My 500 has a great feel in the air, but not so good when it hits the ground. How well would you say your DS650 jumps?

3. I also like to ride wheelies. I've read that new DS650s have a shorter swingarm. How much work will I have to do to get the front end up?

4. Know of anyone who wants to buy a Suzuki 500 and/or sell their DS650?

Thanks to all.

 

Before my 04 Baja X I had a 00 400ex, with some mods, this ds powers up alot easier, the balance point is higher, but still 5th gear is no problem.
Justin

 

JDsbusa

I appreciate your reply, but it doesn't answer my questions.

 

3. I also like to ride wheelies. I've read that new DS650s have a shorter swingarm. How much work will I have to do to get the front end up?

And also check your PM
Justin

 

ok, I have some answers for you:

1) DS weight is 470 lbsfor the '04, '03 and older they weigh 506 lbs. With the power of this motor, you don't really notice the weight until you get airborn (over 8 feet)

2) My Baja jumps ok. But as I mentioned in #1, there are limitations for this 500 lb monster. I've flown mine over a 40 foot table top and used all of my suspension on the landing.

3) The '04 would be the better choice for wheelies because of the shorter swingarm. The older machines can wheelie , it just takes a little more to get them up. The balance point is higher than most machines.

4) no I don't know anyone.

The more time these motors have on them, the better the power seems to come on. I can loft the front in 3rd gear no problem.

 

[quote]
Originally posted by: LT5001987

I have questions for you DS650 owners

1. How heavy is this pig

PIg? PIG? come on BUS IS OK NOT PIG[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

1. I don't think it feels that heavy.

2. With the right approach, landing, and rider, a DS will jump about as well as any other sport quad.

3. Are you a big guy? I am, and wheelies are really easy. Lean back and gas it for gears 1-3. I've had the front of mine up in fourth on pavement. I can only imagine how easy the front would come up with the new swingarm.

4. No.

Nothin' wrong with pigs, especially when you know how tough they are.

 

I guess Ill go climb on my PIG and ride off into the sunset[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

Me being at 250 lbs, my Baja X handles jumps great. The machine feels stable and predictable in the air and the suspension is smooth. I agree with the recommendation for you to go try one. I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised with how well they handle and how smooth they operate. Mods are great for these bikes also.

 

I think that my lack of riding actually comes in as a good thing here for feedback to your question. I have only been riding for a year (most of which was on a 400 ex). I went to the DS to get more power and a better suspension. Because I havent ridden as much as most of the guys here, it should make you feel good knowing that even I have no problem getting it up on two wheels, and the suspension can take whatever is handed to it (even from an abusive newbie like me). I love to jump and it takes 35' spans at 5' of heigth with my 225 pound butt on it like it was made for nothing else. And it eats up what I screw up without dumping me, so just imagine what it can do with a more seasoned rider. The only disadvantage I have noticed with this bike is the high center of gravity, which comes in on the occasional trail ride. My friend has a LT250R and is now selling it to get a DS after riding mine. You won't regret the change.