Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) vs Suzuki DR 600 R Dakar (1989)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect)stacks up against the Suzuki DR 600 R Dakar. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) | Suzuki DR 600 R Dakar |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1987 | 1989 |
| Price | — | — |
| Engine | 589 cc | 590 cc |
| Horsepower | 27 hp | 45 hp |
| Fuel capacity | 3.2 L | 5.3 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Front brakes | Single disc | Single disc |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake | Single disc |
| Tires | 3.00-21 / 5.10-17 | 90/90-21 / 130/80-17 |
Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) vs Suzuki DR 600 R Dakar — which should you buy?
Picking between the Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) and the Suzuki DR 600 R Dakar usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) brings 27 hp, while the Suzuki DR 600 R Dakar counters with 45 hp.
Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike:

