#02 Retro-Scrambler

After the response I received from the Retro-Moto, I decided to build another DR that would be for sale. The new one would be a big upgrade from the Retro-Moto in terms of style and performance. So, in came this 2012 Suzuki DR650 I picked up in 2019 with only 3k miles. The bike was in great shape and a perfect candidate for 2.0 version of my DR builds. I knew an urban scrambler was going to be the concept for this bike, as Indiana doesn’t provide more than pavement. While searching for a design, I stumbled across a 1977 Suzuki TS a friend had in his collection. The yellow long neck tank and white fenders really stood out to me, so it became the basis for my design.

The build began by disassembling the bike to the bare frame and tossing all the unnecessary items to shed some weight. The rear subframe was removed and a newly designed rear subframe was installed which incorporated a rear frame loop and electronics box. The subframe allows for the seating position to be lower to really go with the scrambler theme. Other frame add-ons were an arm to be used with the Scotts steering damper, and fork stops so the tank remains dent free. When the frame returned from powder, the fun began. The newly rebuilt RMZ450 forks and Cogent rear shock were installed. Warp 9 wheels (19” front and 17” rear) and Shinko 705 tires were mounted which really set the bike off as an urban scrambler. The tank installed is from a 1978 Suzuki TS250 with the design coming from a 1974 TS. The white fenders to go with the tank were sourced from a Suzuki TM. Performance was a big key with this one. The FMF powerbomb header was matched with a custom tailpipe, and the rebuilt FCR39 carburetor seems to make the DR come alive. Other additions include an integrated license plate holder, Motogadget Motoscope mini speedo, Motogadget Mlock ignition, custom seat with light blue stitching and other goodies to make version 2.0 really stand out. Meet the Retro-Scrambler!