And also if someone installs salvage yard wheels from a wrecked ABS model to replace non-ABS damaged rims. All you need is a spacer to replace the ABS pick-up module on the hub. I have changed out wheels on previous bikes, even scavenging from other models to go from spoked to alloys. That's why I said the title is the most definitive indication of the bike's equipment.

__________________
2007 DL650
"Who the hell wants to hear actors talk?" -- Harry M. Warner, Warner Brothers, 1927

Sometimes it varies by market. In general, ABS has tended to be optional in the US, and standard in markets like Europe and Canada and Australia. Depends on the manufacturer. But this has been changing in recent years.

I would say that it is very unlikely that a wee would have the sensor rings on the wheel and not have ABS, unless the bike is rebuilt from a collision. Look for the ring and sensor on both wheels (front and back).

My experience on Craig's list is that people will seldom use the correct model number. They usually will explicitly say ABS in the ad, usually because they get tired of people asking them if it does or does not have ABS. Usually, ABS is a benefit that helps sell the a bike.

__________________
2009 DL650 ABS (with touring kit)
2004 Honda ST1300

My DL650A (with ABS) has the ABS stickers on the front fender. The stickers on the rear side panels show DL650 only. Don't go by this sticker to determine the model you have.

DL650A is the model designation for the ABS model. DL650 is without. Regardless of sticker

According to my 2009 shop manual:

In Canada and the US, including California, the 2007 to at least 2009 inclusive (and likely up to 2011) NON-ABS DL650 has a VIN starting with JS1VP54A.

and

In Canada and the US, including California, the 2007 to at least 2009 inclusive (and likely up to 2011) ABS DL650A has a VIN starting with JS1VP54B.

In Canada, anyway, at one point onward (2009?) only the ABS version was imported. I don't know about the US.

One (other!) way to check if the bike has ABS is to remove the seat. Behind the battery, the two ABS-labeled fuses will be staring right back at you.

My Suzuki and dealer paperwork show the model as DL650A, fwiw. (DLA on my registration).

Marc

__________________
Black 2009 V-Strom 650A ABS

with: Stuff. Needs more stuff.

Suzuki seems to be further complicating the situation. I noticed that the Canadian Suzuki website refers to all models as "V-Strom 650A ABS" while the US Suzuki website refers to all models as "V-Strom 650 ABS" .

Also, it appears that Suzuki has stopped using the full model designation "DL650" in any of their promotional material.

__________________
2009 DL650 ABS (with touring kit)
2004 Honda ST1300