What the heck, everyone always compares the DR and KLR, and there is a thread running about KLR engine life now. Seems like a good time for a DR one, hope it hasn't been done to death already. I've got less than 7k on mine, no issues at all so far, not that I'd expect any. What about you high-mile DR guys and gals?
The one I had needed a main bearing at 50k, a clutch/countershaft bearing at 30k and change. Become anal about making sure the bike is getting clean filtered air. At some time, I had a split in the filter-to-carb tube/bellows, and I think that may've contributed to the problems I experienced. I rode the doggy doo out of that bike. With proper care, I wouldn't be surprised to see 80k+ miles from one of these engines. I also had the ignition trigger coil go out at 24k and change, and again at 50k. From what I've read, this is very unusual, but it will stop you like a big log.
I heard of one that racked up 300,000 trouble free miles. The factory bought it back to tear down and study AND gave the owner a brand new replacement DR. Sorry..........but I just love urban legends!
