Test Rides?

[Ghostdog]

Hey all. My first post. I've been looking at the DL650 for a while. The one problem I've been coming up against is not being able to take the V-Strom for a test ride. Do most dealers not allow test rides? Anyone have leads on a Suzuki dealership that allows demo rides in WI? Just curious. Thanks!

[WIsixfitty]

Pro-Motorsports in Fond du Lac (my dealer) was giving test rides until someone bought that bike after riding it. I guess that says something about the bike.

I have one if you really need to ride one.

:D

[SpeedStar]

Just check with your dealers. Talk to them seriously about the bike first. Maybe go in a few different times so they know you are serious about it. If you just walk in off the street, they probably aren't gonna offer a test.
My dealer let me test ride mine for about half an hour near the dealership.
That was smart of him, I bought it the next day.

[Ghostdog]

WIsixfitty- Thanks for the offer. You're not too far and would definitely be worth the short ride up to test out the bike if the dealer rides don't work out.

SpeedStar- Thanks, I'll make another trip to the closest dealer. I like the dealership and the first time I talked with him he seemed really enthusiastic about the 650. Second time I went in he just mentioned nobody offers test rides on new bikes and if I set up financing then he'll consider it for a couple miles. Was just put off by that. Another one just said 'no'. I understand the dealerships not wanting to just hand over the keys to any tire kicker. I'll definitely stop back again and see what happens. :)

[Ghostdog]

after purchasing an 05 dl650 in blue. :P Felt pretty weird to purchase a bike without a demo but the hours of reading everyone's riding experiences paid off. Plus this was the only bike left for me. Such great praise in that price range is hard to pass up. Once out and about it was what I had hoped for and will take some adjusting to, especially the quick shifting. People's experiences and descriptions made sense once in the saddle. My other ride is an 02 Sportster 883R. Compared to the Sportster, windshield buffeting is hardly noticeable. Though I've been keeping it below 60 mph so far. The Strom is such a different bike, which is what I wanted. Plus now the option to travel far and wide will be much to look forward to.

[BBurton "BigB"]

Though I've been keeping it below 60 mph so far.

Crank up those RPM's and get on down the road!! This aint no Harley... you won't hurt this engine! :lol: Welcome to the forum GhostDog. 8)

[Ghostdog]

Almost through the break-in period then I can open it up a little more. Can't wait! It's going to be raining here tomorrow but I figure I can get a couple hundred more miles knocked off.