If straight-line speed is your priority, the V-Strom 800DE takes the lead. With 40 HP more than the DR650SE, it offers a more spirited ride that will be noticeable on highway overtakes or track days. When it comes to agility, the DR650SE has a clear advantage. Weighing in 64kg less than the V-Strom 800DE, it will feel significantly easier to handle in low-speed traffic, parking maneuvers, and twisty corners. Riders with a shorter inseam should lean towards the V-Strom 800DE. Its seat height is 30mm lower than the DR650SE, making it much easier to flat-foot at stoplights and increasing confidence during stops. Bottom Line: While both are capable, the vstrom800 offers a superior power-to-weight ratio, making it the more exciting machine for experienced riders.
| Spec | DR650SE | V-Strom 800DE |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 644 | 776 |
| Power | 43 | 83 |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Weight | 166 | 230 |
| Seat height | 885 | 855 |