SUZUKI

DR 650 RS/E -1992

Targeted at a benchmark model

When it comes to marketing, there are two basic allitudes: create your own campaign or live off the back of someone else's. Motorcycle constructors. operating in a highly competitive enthusiasts' market, are often fatally tempted to mix these two strategies. The Suzuki DR 650 RS/E is a typical example of a model targeted directly at a rival product - and not just any old rival, but the benchmark model of the trail class!

The Anti-Dominator

The Honda Dominator has positioned itself as the reference for "basic" traiI bikes, now that the big trail bikes have abandoned the "African look." Its success has fatally given ideas to the competition - notably Suzuki, creaLor of a remarkable production trail bike. The DR650 RS/E is directly inspired by the Dominator: same appeal, similar steering

head fairing, similar dual-exhaust system.

Revised Frame Geometry

Little remains of the old DR 600; the 650 RS/E has a new fairing, revised frame geometry and above all, an engine that has been thoroughly reworked in order to develop greater torque. It also has an electric starter, which was lacking from the 650 RS that appeared in 1990, a major omission that was only Corrected the following year. The Suzuki DR 650 RS/E has revealed itself as an excellent performer, even if its cycle parts are reckoned less homogenous than those of its chosen rival.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 641cc (95x90.4mm) air-cooled single cylinder four-stroke

Power Rating: 46 hp @ 6800 rpm

Valves: overhead camshaft 4 valve

Fuel System: 40mm carburetor

Transmission: 5-speed; chain final drive

Suspension: telescopic fork/9 inch

displacement (front); swinging fork with single damper/8.3 inch displacement ( rear)

Brakes: disk (front & rear)

Wheels: 21 inch (frontl; 17 inch ( rear)

Weight: 342 lb

Suzuki's response to the Honda Dominator, the DR650 RS/E is very much in the direct line of multi-purpose modern trail bikes.