I would go for the fz if you just need a clutch bike. But as you are going for B full and with aspirations of a big bike, the a Dominar is a plausible route.

I went with the Dominar. I never did have problems with a clutched bike but the heavier and bigger Dominar did help me get used to a bigger bike. Helps you build confidence. Sailed through the test as the z650 test bike was an easier bike to ride.

Plus maintenance is cheap and has proved to be quite robust. I have 70k on mine in 3 years before upgrading to a 800NK. Just look for the older v1 facelift like the one I have (the one with the black engine cases and gold wheels). They seem to be more reliable than the V2/UG the Dominar is half decent for longer journeys with luggage, a smaller rear sprocket, some handle bar risers. Just don't expect to cruise all day above 130. The bike is fine, just that it gets buzzy after 140 and you get numb wrists from the vibs on rides over 1hr.

The good thing about the Dominar is that you can still use it as a daily bike even after you get your preferred touring bike, let's face it, not everyone wants to ride a 200+ kg tall adventure tourer in KL traffic.

The fork issue can be solved with aftermarket seals. But it's the luck of the owner.

I ride mine hard, off road, jumps and after 70k the stock seals are still good. I wonder if the fork seals issue affect little ridden bikes. It's due for a fork service anyway.

You can pick up a v1 starting around 4-5k. Final edition v1 may have racks and 3 cases included as clearance discount..


As for what to look for. Obvious accident damage and bad owner done wiring. Beyond that mine held up pretty well until 60k when general wear and tear items came up due for replacements. My VC was still good at 60k. Stock chain lasts about 20k. Spark plugs 30k. Although by 25k, the worn out plugs sometimes can cause random stalling and difficulty starting. My clutch lasted 60k. Same with brake pads and my wheel bearings. It's due for new headstock bearings and front fork service with new seals.

If you need to know more about the Dominar, you can read through the pulsar/dominar forum page here. The specialist mechanic (in puchong putri) that work on these bikes is there also.

It's not the easiest bike to get started on, as low speed handling is a bit more difficult as it has a long wheelbase and is slightly top heavy with a full tank of gas, but it pays dividends when time to upgrade to a bigger, heavier bike.

This post has been edited by jaycee1: Oct 9 2024, 08:18 AM

Depends on the mileage and condition of the bike.

Chain and sprocket set + labour should be about 350. About the same for a new clutch and the same for front end rebuild with new bearings and seals. Other items are all under 100.

It's not an expensive bike to upkeep.

You might also try to contact Jay at vi-motorwerks and see if he knows someone that wants to sell their dominar.

I am considering selling mine but I think you will be able to find better lower mileage examples in the market. I'm more than happy to keep mine as a spare bike ATM.

This post has been edited by jaycee1: Oct 9 2024, 08:28 AM

V2/UG engine seems to have a bit more issues. They upgraded the engine to twincam for the V2/UG. Supposedly makes 5more HP, but about 500rpm higher in the rev range. Given the thumper design, you really don't want to rev the engine higher due to the vibration. According to Jay, he finds the V2/UG running rougher and noisier.

The UG does have upgraded front suspension and slightly better brakes and with the inclusion of a gear indicator and slightly nicer mirrors. Otherwise there is not much between them.

I'm a sucker for Matt black and gold wheels... So I never quite looked at the UG.

This post has been edited by jaycee1: Oct 9 2024, 03:34 PM