Photo: decalmoto · Public domain
Suzuki DR600 Dakar
78/100 Overall
73 On the road83 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki DR600 Dakar vs Yamaha XT500
Suzuki DR600 Dakar scores 78/100 overall against Yamaha XT500 on 80/100. On the road: 73–72. As classics: 83–88. Overall result: Yamaha XT500.
Photo: JokielGram · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha XT500
80/100 Overall
72 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki DR600 | Yamaha XT500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 5 | Suzuki DR600 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Suzuki DR600 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 10 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Suzuki DR600 if…
you want robust big-single trail ability, useful road range and unmistakable 1980s Dakar styling.
Choose the Yamaha XT500 if…
you want simple, durable all-road ability and the relaxed pulse of a landmark big single.
Background
History
Suzuki DR600
The Suzuki DR600 Dakar was produced from 1984–1989 and used a 589cc air/oil-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, ownership appeal and collector appeal. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Yamaha XT500
The Yamaha XT500 was produced from 1976–1989 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, reliability, ownership appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Suzuki DR600
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 589cc air/oil-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, ownership appeal and collector appeal.
Yamaha XT500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, reliability, ownership appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Suzuki DR600
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki DR600 Dakar. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha XT500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XT500. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Suzuki DR600
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha XT500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Suzuki DR600
Rivals to the Yamaha XT500
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki DR600 Dakar wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha XT500 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha XT500 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.