Hi from Sunny (currently rain of Biblical proportions!) QLD, Australia.

I’m very close to buying a ‘08 SDR.

If I buy it, it will because of all the great info/support on this site.

If I don’t buy it, it will be because of all the info on this site Re Fuelling probs, Geometry probs, Suspension probs, Waterpump probs, (Have I missed any?)

Most of my riding is ½ day rides on the nearby Mountain (Molehill) back roads. The surface is often second best when it comes to smoothness. The top speeds are modest.
Currently I ride my 96 Bandit. With the suspension heavily modified, and all the normal engine mods (Pipe, Cam, Air filter) and every ounce that can be removed. It’s a great bike, but still too heavy.
It’s time for an upgrade.
Even though I’m as old as dirt, I still race MX (slowly), have a collection of Dirt bikes and a MX/SM 525. The barking mad V twin SDR certainly appeals.

SO:
Fuelling: The one I’m looking at has a PCIII, I’d be willing to buy a Motohoolagan Air box, and MAYBE try to master ECU tune. So probably get that fixed.

Geometry: Is the lack of trail a bigger problem on the “R”?
I guess the Nichols TC (and maybe lower shock mount) is in budget. I'd slide the forks down a bit in the stock clamp, if I felt an improvement, I’d buy the clamp. Does the shock adjuster allow for a longer over all shock length, or only shorter?

Suspension: All my bikes have the correct springs for my weight (77kgs sans gear) and revalved, Gold Valves if required). The hi end WP suspension was an attraction, then I read that the internals are so bad at both ends they should be thrown away. Also the guy that does my MX bike has been “outed” on here as “not the best” for Super Dukes.

The water pump prob is just servicing (replace the shaft occasionally/regularly?) right?

Comments?
(If I have to do all the above, inc replace the Suspension internals, maybe I should wait for the V4 Tuono “Factory” {Öhlins}, probably no dearer overall....)

G'day Buddy. Welcome to the madness. I suggest you get it, ride it like you stole it for a while and then
See how you feel about it. You will be surprised that must of the ills you describe just aren't so bad. Welcome!

Thanks mate.

Sage advice for sure!

Welcome dude

Mate... The suspension is not bad at all... It was just that mine got stuffed by sending it to MPE because I was too light for the stock suspension back then.

That being said..... Suspension improvements is the best thing I ever did for the handling of the bike.. Can carry so much more corner speed than before

wecome brother SD'er viewtopic.php?f=18&t=16897

all you'll need

Welcome mate!

Thanks for the welcomes, and incredible info.
If this SDR comes to live at my place, some of this stuff will add immeasurably to the positive experience I’m sure.
None less than the “ride it like you stole it for a while” tip

g,day mate.