Mine is a 2003 with no ABS. I've got 8000 miles on it with no problems. Very slight surge in mid range that I cured completely by better fuel and using a cleaner to keep the injector clean. I cruise all day getting from one area to another at 80+ mph and push the bike pretty hard.
After riding other big singles, this is THE thumper to have if you need to cover any real distance since it is so smooth at speed. I replaced the original Metzlers with Avon Distanzias. Made a big difference on the pavement, tracked straighter and kept a line. Not so good in the dirt though. I run two sets of big lights, and the 400 watt alt keeps right up.
The seat is a little too firm for me, and I don't like the narrow footpegs. I'm a big guy and would like to be able to add more preload to the rear shock. It's too soft when I'm all loaded up on a trip. The Dakar takes a load WAY better than a KLR or XR and I like the accessories availablity.
I have had NO problems, and as I said I run it pretty hard. I would highly recommend the DAKAR for anyone who likes to cover some country, on the street or two track fire trails. It is an excellent machine for combination requirements, it's just not a dirt racer.
