Dual-sport motorcycles are the ultimate go-anywhere machines, but every rider knows that stock setups are rarely perfect. A few well-chosen upgrades can significantly enhance performance, comfort, and safety. Based on my experience and conversations with my riding buddies, here’s a breakdown of the best modifications that have made a real difference in our rides.
5 Upgrades for Dual Sport Motorcycle
1. Suspension Tuning
Suspension upgrades are one of the most important modifications you can make. I learned this firsthand when I took my Suzuki DR650 on a long backcountry ride and bounced over every little bump.
Suspension Adjustments on KL650
Suzuki DR650: Dialing in the Rear Shock
After chatting with my friend Dave, who’s been riding dual-sports for years, I adjusted my rear shock sag to about 3.4 inches. This improved balance and made a huge difference in stability, especially at higher speeds. I also experimented with compression damping, which smoothed out washboard roads considerably.
Kawasaki KLR650: Preload and Rebound Adjustments
My buddy Jake rides a KLR650, and he swears by adjusting the rear preload. He noticed that the stock settings made the bike unstable on rough terrain, so he slightly stiffened the suspension. Now, he says it feels much more planted, particularly on off-road trails.
Pro-Level Suspension Mods
For those looking to take things further, professional re-valving services from companies like Moto Pro Suspension and Stillwell Performance allow for custom setups tailored to your weight and riding style. A friend in my group had this done, and he says it transformed his bike’s handling completely.
2. Ergonomic Upgrades
Comfort is king on long rides, and I’ve learned the hard way that a few small changes can prevent major aches and pains.
Seats for Long-Haul Comfort
Stock seats can be brutal after a few hours. I upgraded to a Seat Concepts saddle, and it was a game changer. My buddy Alex, who rides a Honda CRF450L, switched to a Whiplash Speed Company seat and said it made long-distance rides much more tolerable.
Honda CRF450L Seat Replaced with Whiplash Speed Company
Handlebars & Levers
I adjusted my handlebars forward slightly to improve my off-road control. Another rider in my group suggested installing adjustable levers, which I found really helped fine-tune my hand position for better comfort and response.
Footpegs
Standing up on rough terrain requires solid footing. I swapped my stock pegs for wider ones with aggressive grip, and the improvement was immediate. A friend recommended Black Dog Cycle Works pegs, and they’ve been fantastic.
3. Safety & Protection
A few well-placed protective upgrades can save your bike (and your wallet) from serious damage.
2022 KLR650
Bash Plates & Skid Plates
One of my first upgrades was a skid plate. I ride a lot of rocky trails, and after a close call with a sharp rock, I installed an AXP Extreme skid plate. It’s taken some serious hits and still holds up.
Handguards
A few friends convinced me to install wraparound handguards after they saved their hands from flying debris. I went with Barkbusters and no longer worry about branches smacking my fingers.
Brake Upgrades
Jake upgraded to braided stainless steel brake lines on his KLR650, and after testing his bike, I did the same. The brake response is noticeably firmer, giving me more confidence on steep descents.
4. Luggage & Accessories
Touring on a dual-sport means carrying gear efficiently. Here’s what worked for me and my riding group.
Racks & Bags
- Tail Racks: I installed a lightweight aluminum tail rack to strap down my camping gear. It’s been incredibly useful.
- Tank Bags: A friend recommended the Nelson Rigg Waterproof Hurricane bag, which I now use for easy access to essentials like my phone and wallet.
- Auxiliary Fuel Tanks: Another rider in my group added an extra fuel tank to his KLR650, giving him extended range on long adventures.
5. Electrical & Tech Enhancements
Technology upgrades can make a big difference in safety and convenience.
Digital Displays
Upgrading to a digital display was one of the best tech changes I made. The Taria XX system provides essential riding data, making navigation and trip planning easier.
suzuki dr650 with digital display
Navigation Systems
Many riders in my group use the Drive Mode Dashboard 2 (DMD2) app for navigation. It offers offline maps, which are lifesavers when riding in remote areas.
LED Lighting
After struggling with dim stock headlights, I switched to LED lights. A night ride through the backroads proved just how much better the visibility is.
Final Thoughts on Making Smart Upgrades
Upgrading a dual-sport isn’t about spending the most money—it’s about making the right changes for your riding style. My experience, combined with the knowledge shared by my riding group, has taught me that even small modifications can lead to massive improvements in performance and comfort. Start with the basics, experiment gradually, and always take advice from experienced riders.
