Your are visiting  EARLY in Thailand.  ©  David Early.          

2006 Suzuki DR650se Modifications and Accessories

This page is for those that are interested in the modifications done to this bike to make a reliable traveler.  High performances is not as important as reliability and usefulness. All mods have been done with that in mind.

With only a few exceptions, it is not possible to buy a new motorcycle larger than 200cc.  Motorcycles are obtained through a multitude of sources which are mostly "gray market" imports.

I found this bike sitting in a shop near the docks in Bangkok.  Still wrapped in plastic it had been imported from Singapore.  I have not seen another one in Thailand. Although sold without warranty or registration it was a good deal.  The registration problems are "fixable" in Thailand.

Time for the modifications.

This is to be my "Chameleon Bike" as it must fit many purposes and many types of roads.

It's main function is touring Thailand and Laos. This means winding asphalt roads that twist through the mountains. Dirt roads that may be covered with rocks, deep "bull dust",mud and water crossings.

It can handle trail riding when faced with it, but I have a DR250 for serious, "pre-planned" trail riding. However here it is not unusual for a road to suddenly "disappear" and you find yourself on a two track or less.
 

(Click on thumbnail for larger view)
 
        Riding the rice fields in Vang Vieng Laos.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trail Tech Vapor

The Vapor replaced my stock speedo. I removed the old unit and speedo cable.

Install and Ignition Switch Problem

I found that with the Vapor Protector and my windshield, the ignition switch was blocked. I used some brackets to raise the unit and move it to the inside of the bars. A little tight but no problem.

Trail Tech Halogen Light

I added the 35w Halogen light which gives plenty of illumintaion, along with the Halogen white headlight bulb I installed, and does not draw much power.

 

I connected it using the relay shown in the previous photo along with a Trail Tech switch. Trail Tech says the relay is not necessary.

Here you can see more of the relay, also the garming ball mount and wire, and an extra clutch cable that is pre-routed.

Trail Tech Service

I don't believe in free advertising for companies and don't usually put stickers on my bike. I have been so impressed by Trail Tech and there tech support that I added theirs.

Luggage Rack

This rack was hand made at a shop here in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I just him to copy my DR250 rack.

Barbeque Rack

I saw this rack on the internet. So I told the shop here to copy it with a few changes.

"My" BBQ rack

I had it made so it could be added or removed easily by attaching to the existing rack.

Quick Release

3 Allen bolts is all it takes.

Not as wide as it looks

Givi Box

I purchased the Givi Box in Singapore. Also the rear turn signals were replaced with a pair from Singapore.

Now the Chameleon part.

Tool Box

I made this out of PVC. Both ends can be removed with a tool that I carry seperate so it is a little harder to open when unattended.

Tool Box

Here is a pair I installed on my friends Triumph Scrambler. It is turning into a popular item, I think we have put them on about 4 different bikes here and I have had many emails asking how to make them.

MRA Windshield-Twisted Throttle

Surprising how much wind is deflected away from the upper body by this screen. Really made a difference on the mountain highways. Also and Ascerbis fender brace to stop the fender from blowing in the wind.

Motech Engine Guard and Skid Plate

A must. From Twisted Throttle

Dual Star Fork Brace

Stiffened front end twist. Also added optional fork protectors.

Hel Performance Stainless Brake Lines

Ordered and spec'ed in Singapore, but later made by The Dirt Shop in Bangkok. Front and rear, make a BIG difference in stopping power and feel. One of the best additions.

Sheep Skin Seat-Sheepy Hollow

Sheepy Hollow in Australia custom make the covers for each individual bike. I also added another layer of foam between the cover and the stock seat. Not a cure all but much better than stock.

Shoei

Of course a Shoei Helmet from Singapore

 

 


Boten, Laos/ China Border


Hongsa, Laos Elephant Festival
Yes it is ridden. Click on photo for related story.


Highway 13, near Luang Phabang-Laos

  
"Track Day" Chiang Mai, Thailand

 

 See my pages..........My Motorcycles , Early RACING and Adventure Diaries.  Home Page

free hit counter script