WOW, you got a deal man. Congratulation, I would have bought it too. Thats a brand new bike. Yeah I like the DRZ as of what they sell new and the price point its in my top 3.
I'm still kicking myself for not buying a new 2016 for $4,200 in late 2017. Seems to me like they are actually going up in value, you got a killer deal!
My dealer had a trail 125 and a 300L ABS come in on a Wednesday. Called in the afternoon because I wanted the 125, they called the next morning and it was already sold. I drove out that next morning and bought my 300l. Looked for both models brand new for about 5 months till I found one.
Well done. This video strikes me as an honest, balanced comparison between the DRZ400 and the 300L. I own a 2019 DRZ400S that I heavily modified, including lowering it 30mm. It's a great DS motorcycle that leans toward it's dirtbike roots. It has *much* more torque and power than any 300L. And a 300L needs $800+ to have a comparable suspension. But it is not refined. It vibrates a bit, snarls a bit, and demands more skill and work from the rider than a 300L. Pretty much as you describe. So what do you want? A '69 V-8 Camaro or a '21 V-6 Camaro?
Interesting view point you have. I am 5"9" tall with an inseam of 30". I have had my DRZ400 from new in 2009 and have put 27000+ miles on it. No top end or even having to adjust the valves. Just put plugs and oil. This year I finally changed the coolant. Yes i have installed the 1" drop links in it but also had to change the rear shock spring to a heavier one. I have done a 400+ mile road day with the original stock seat to Daytona Beach bike week. The only thing that hurt was my wrist from holding the throttle open. But I will admit there is better seats out there than the stock and i finally broke down and got one.I got 59mpg stock. I did a 3x3 mod and jets to get better hp and throttle response. It gets 54mpg with that mod. I get all i wanted so i put a pumper carb on it and got 50mpg. I live in Georgia and have taken it to NM and CO riding single and two track in the mountains. I did change the tires to 606s. It will walk away from the Honda crf250s and the Yamaha wr250 at any elevation. But there is a much better carb (Lectron) for the DRZ that does make the bike run far better at elevation changes. The bike is top heavy and that you have to deal with. I greatly reduced the buzzing in the pegs by changing to much larger dirt bike pegs with far better grip. The dirt ability is not up to my KTM 350exc but that is a legal plated dirt bike. I have a aluminum skid plate and it does not have to be removed for an oil change. A friend and i go back country motorcycle camping and it handles the extra weight very well. I have not got to ride the new Honda 300 or Kawasaki 300 to compare. I will add that I think dual sport bikes of any manufacture are my favorite rides. I do commend you on a very well done video. Keep up the Great Work
One of the best comparison videos that I have ever seen. I've been riding since 1958 and am ready to give up my 175 HP bikes and go back to my roots of just having fun putting around. Most of my miles will be on road looking for off road trails so vibration along with a six speed are big factors. The deal breaker for me on the Suzuki along with a host of other similar bikes is the seat height. Seat height is a big deal for 80% of my off road riding while ground clearance hardly ever has been an issue. Watching Itchy Boots on her Patagonia to Prudhoe You Tube trip sold me on the Honda's reliability. (after abandiing her Enfield in Peru due to a COVID evacutation she continued from Equador to Prudhoe on a 300 Rally)
In 1991,92 Suzuki already had the best dual sport motorcycle and that bike was their TS200 two stroke with power valve, oil injection, comfortable seat, weighing in at 255lbs dry. It was the funnest bike I have owned. could go anywhere a KDXcould go and it topped out around 95mph. Bridgstone M22/23 hard pack knobbies (not road legal) were amazing both on road and off. Having a hard time deciding what dual sport to buy and considering a drz or crf 300L base/no abs or the crf450RL but know in my heart it the old TS were available today i would grab it in a heart beat! Thanks to the emmissions folks we can no longer have that awesome TS
I’ve ridden the crf300l off road, owned a 250l for 2 years. Recently bought the klx 300 and I couldn’t be happier. The new 300l motor and transmission are brilliant but the klx feels far more planted and stable off road to me. Great video!
Great fair comparison, great work. When I was thinking about getting a bike after not having even sat on one for the last 45 years, my mates that ride said the DRZ was a good choice for me. I was convinced too until I sat on my son's new WR250F (37.6" seat height) and couldn't even tip toe one foot. I'm only 5' 8" so decided on 35" as a maximum. In Australia that only left the 300L, the XT250 or KTX250S without going smaller. The Honda seems the best choice of these so I ordered one a couple of months ago. Can't wait but it may be a few months more!
@@keithkent6275 I got my bike in late Oct 2021 and I'm liking it more every ride. The only mods are an AXP bash plate, Renthal 7/8" bars, Barkbuster Jet handguards, Michelin Tracker tyres and recently changed the rear shock to a Rally Raid stage 1. The shock is excellent, much more settled over the rough stuff and even seems to make the road riding feel less twitchy. That could also be partly due to the Trackers having 1500km, so less knobs to squirm. Fuel economy is great, I usually get 32+ km/l (75 US mpg). My riding is mostly mixed trail type riding. I avoid freeways and major highways. It's a great bike for this type of stuff. I've done a bit of harder enduro with mates on Euro 2 strokes and can get it done, but I'm much slower and I don't overly enjoy it, possibly due to some wear in the 63 yr old body!
I'm Aussie too, & shorter than you. I bought a KTM 690 new in 2014 & persisted for about 4 years but just got sick of it's height, even after lowering it to the point of ruining it. Now I have CRF250L & really satisfied. I thought I'd be disappointed in the drop in power, & yeah that enters my head but only infrequently. Rest of the time I'm just loving the 250's refinement onroad & offroad, the quality, reliability, affordability. Thought about tradein for 300 but not in any hurry. I feel the CRF will take me anywhere I want, and get me home, enjoyably & in comfort. Best tool for my job.
This is one of the best and well-balanced videos I’ve watched, and sadly I have watched way too many videos. Yesterday I was going to buy a DRZ. Today it looks like I’m going to be a Honda boy Tune in tomorrow, it’ll be a Yamaha.
I owned a DRZ400S and currently own a new CRF300L. The only thing the DRZ wins out on is power. That's it for me. Totally agree on the DRZ wanting to stand straight up or lay on its side. But man I miss twisting the throttle on the DRZ
Todd this is exactly what I am saying in the video. The problem is most people cant handle hearing anything but positive stuff about the bikes they like. I mean Im trying to be fair as possible but also speak how I really feel.
I own a DRZ400sm. Using the supermoto rims I put on big knobby tires. Before the hate begins let me just say I have had a crf250x, crf450x, and a ktm530exc with plenty of off road and on road experience. I have been riding real dirt bikes since I was 5. All plated and street legal. The best and most fun bike I have ridden is the drz400sm on dirt tires. Destroys twisty roads and is super fun off road. Don’t knock until you try it.
I mean it could be good/fun. The thing is the more you move from one path the less efficient you are at another. So the twisty roads you mentioned are more dangerous with a higher change of slipping out because you have a much small contact patch with knobbies, less rubber touching the road. Offroad I can tell you a 17" rim will suffer hard on logs and rocks compared to the 21" front of a true dual sport. Some of the places I ride in the mountains you would have a really hard time with this size tire.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Ride the back woods of NH, ME, VT. Those bikes Iisted prior to my drz are some of the best off road bikes around. I have been log hopping and riding nasty terrain on that bike and never had an issue. In fact if you measure the 17 with a big knobby its only a half inch smaller than a 21 with a tire on it. Don’t forget its not always the bike. Most of time its the rider.
Also when I ride my drz it is 95 percent hard off road with a little bit of dirt roads and a touch of pavement. Trust me I can ride the dirt. Been doing it my whole life.
I own a DRZ400SM (supermoto model) and my son has a 300L dual sport. I've ridden both, and there's a reason the DRZ costs more. It's just a better bike overall. Ya ya, it's old tech, but once you get it dialed in, it's a great bike. To get the 300L to that same level, you would have to spend quite a bit more upgrading the suspension, and you will never get the same amount of power out of it since it has the smaller motor. The 300L is fun, but if you want a supermoto, the DRZ is hard to beat. Both are fun bikes, but if I had.... say.... $8000 to spend on a bike and mods, I'd take the DRZ everytime.
Asides the extra grunt I don't see much advantage to the drz400. It weighs more and has a higher center of gravity, it only has a 5 speed, and it's still carbureted. If power is the main concern, neither are very fast. In this case the cheaper bike is packed with more features like abs and slipper clutch(and a decent display & modern electronics)
@@Largetalons carb makes the throttle more snappy better for wheels. 5 speed dont matter not like your doing much highway on a dual sport anyways. Plus you got more torque. 300 needs 6 or she died young. Lol
I own a DRZ and my riding buddy has a KLX300. Your review hits the nail on the head. The DRZ is a fantastic bike for its age and deserves respect for staying relevant for so long but it is an old design and the new 300’s are surpassing it in SOME areas. Very interesting in looking at the spec sheets with the DR350 in the mix. Can’t help wondering what an updated DR350 would look like. And by updated I mean add liquid cooling fuel injection, modern chassis, suspension and brakes but try and hit the rest of the old specs. Hmmmm come on Suzuki!
The DRZ IS an upgraded DR 350 lol.....just such an ancient upgrade it does not much matter now is all....WHY Suzuki cheaped out on the transmission i have no idea but that was DUMB as he!! Had they only gotten that right (6 speed) this model would have been so worthy upgrading with fuel injection in recent years but as it stands Suzuki knows it would be feeding oats to a dead horse so they just keep selling the same old clunker to the few who will still buy them cause their buddy has one or ignorance or whatever...Everytime I think of it it angers me at Suzuki much the same kind of anger as against other companies that wont get off their butts...like Harley ignoring most genres of motorcycling (well finally they built a huge adv bike at least) Honda has such an apparent love of motorcycles being willing to build new and better machines for their loyal customers...Suzuki? They dont try much if you ask me expecially compared to Honda who listened to customers clamoring for the ultimate big bore dual sport for instance. Honda COULD have put lights and turn signals on the crf450r but instead they took the high road and re engineered THAT engine with new center cases large enough to fit a 6 speed tranny into and then went over all the other aspects to make it right for dual sport customers....a company that truly deserves customer loyalty compared to Suzuki
I rode the DRZ and both Honda and Kawi. I went with the “ancient” DRZ because of the power and torque. I weigh 200lbs and the 300s are gutless. Power is much more important to me than carb vs EFI and 5 vs 6 speed. Everyone downs the DRZ for 5 gears but because of the bigger engine and the gear ratios, gear spacing the DRZ revs less and has higher top speed and much more power on the freeway so 5 speed is not an issue. The DRZ suspension is also way better. It looks good on paper to have 6 speed and EFI but in real world riding the larger engined DRZ is much better in my opinion simply because of the power, the 300s are gutless……
I had drz400s for a 10 yrs, and now i own crf300l. Drz have better power and torque and much better suspension than CRF. But worst thig about drz is close ratio gear box and vibey engine on higher revs, in that area crf is shining, very smooth engine and exelent gearbox. Worst thing on crf is suspension, especialy rear shock. I changed a lot of duals sport bikes, but non of them had so bad shock as crf.
Had a drz for 4 years now, have put 16,000 rough miles. Changing the oil every 1000 miles. Its the 4th bike I had, and by far my favorite. I'm only 5 foot 9, and havent had any issues with it on trails feeling too top heavy, have taken it through things I never should have been doing, and the old dirty drz kept me up, and got me through it. I dont think I'll ever get rid of the beast!
I had a 2001 DRZ400 and loved it. Then in 2009 the NFS failed to put out a fire because it was evening and they wanted to go home. By the next day it was out of control, raged for over a month and burned 150 square miles of the San Gabriels. The NFS were delighted. It meant they could close every fire road. I waited 5 years but it became apparent the lazy sods were never going to reopen the roads, so I sold my DRZ. I still miss it.
Almost went drz, but the rally won me over with the fuel injection, 8000 service intervals, fuel mileage, & price. Felt I was going to get a bigger bang for my buck. Will hang onto my 94 dr 350s because I still love the Suzuki
I had been eyeballing a DR350 for over a year that I planned on buying on consignment. The guy took over a year and never had the bike ready to sell, so I decided the next logical step was the DRZ400. I could not shake the itch to finally ride off road, so I bought it in May of this year and it has taken over my life. I absolutely love this bike and am having a hard time getting on my other 4 road motorcycles (also have a '19 ZX6R, '05 Kawasaki Vulcan, '02 Suzuki Savage, and '18 Honda Grom). Learning to ride on dirt with this bike has definitely been humbling. It's "thrown me off" at least four times since owning it. Someone either smarter than me or less determined would easily lose confidence trying to learn to ride off road on this bike, as I had trouble getting back on this bike a couple times feeling like it wanted to kill me (I do ride very technical terrain vs my personal skill level). If I were to suggest a bike to start on, never ridden off road before, I wouldn't in good conscience, be able to recommend the DRZ400 to someone based on my experience. That being said, I personally made the right choice purchasing this bike now that I have begun to tame this thing!
The DRZ is definitely not a beginner bike as it requires good throttle and clutch control to tame in the woods! Tight turns also require commitment due to the high center of gravity and the heavy weight of the bike!
@@DR4WZ Tight turns on uneven terrain require even more commitment 😁. Funnily enough I also bought my DRZ in May and if it weren't for my 32" inseam I definitely would have fallen off a lot more 😆! Very low traction areas without the possibility of dabbing are definitely dreadful when you don't have good balancing skills yet! Ice obstacles are simply dreadful😬!
@@FlameHazeist 32" inseam here too. Someone's wish I were closer to a 34" with this bike! But again, I wouldn't trade my DR-Z for anything. It's just the right amount of fun, challenging, frustrating, rewarding. Actually now trying to find a reasonably priced DR200 for my wife so she can start riding trails with me.
@@DR4WZ I also concur with the wish of being able to easily dab out of every sticky situation 😁. I'd trade mine, though it will only be when I can afford both the bike and the extra maintenance! The thought of riding the same 246 lbs bike as Graham Jarvis is simply too hard to resist! It will be a while though, so perfect excuse to become a better rider in the mean time😁.
With my near stock (3x3 mod, jetting) 2007 DRZ400S I get 52mpg-60mpg. Mostly highway is 52mpg and mostly dirt roads I get 60mpg. Nice review, thanks. Buying new I would pick the CRF300L, no contest. But I bought used with a $3k budget and the DRZ400S won, no contest.
I called Honda Powersports Chattanooga TN 9/28/2001 looking for the 2021 CRF300L Rally. Was told two to three months wait. They called next day and delivered it to me 9/30/2021. I saved $1700 over another dealer in GA. No dealer fees, no delivery fees. MSRP and $30 administrative fee only. I called 10 other dealers and no one had one of these in stock and did not know when they would get one. My salesman was Gus and very pleased with this purchase/service by dealer.
I'm seventy two years young and been riding along time. I have a 2021 crf 300l and love it. Very easy to ride great gas mileage. I did add a better seat a small wind screen and skid plate.
I have a CRF250L and 2x DRZ400s with uograded carbs, exhaust and intake. The CRF is very mild, easy to ride, gets the job done. The DRZ is wild by comparison, much more fun. Better suspension. Depends on your needs and experience to choose between the 2
I first saw one of your videos yesterday. Then knowing nothing of where you were riding, I thought "gee, that looks like the NJ Pines or thereabouts! Glad to see that I correctly recognized the location despite not having ridden in Southern NJ for over 30 years! I still miss it, nothing like it in Connecticut. I even have asked to have my cremains scattered in the Wharton Forest, that's how much i miss it.
I've had a Drz400s in the past now got a BMW G650GS Sertao which is good on the Motorway sits happy at 75-80mph but is heavy off road at 190kg. Road my sons road legal Honda Crf450x and loved it off road, so light and powerful but the service intervals are a joke. So I'm getting a Crf300L.
how do you know? the bike is made in china with tons of cheap Chinese parts. where as the DRZ is made in JAPAN with quality parts. and as suzuki had a 5 year warranty (a few years ago) and honda will kinda cover you for 6 months. WAIT a minute...you are one of those HONDA IS BEST kinda person, aren't you? where as i am a honda mechanic...
@@paulmorneault3994 The CRF300L is made in Thailand, not China. I can't vouge for how much that could affect the build quality over the principle of it not being made in Japan, but they have the best reliability reputation for a reason that begins with the engineering done in Japan when developing the bike. If anything, people should be comparing it to a KLX300 which is much more of an apples to apples comparison in terms of modern tech, size, weight, and rider feel. Where did you see that it's made in China, or even made with cheap Chinese parts?
A little dramatic intro is always good! This is a great comparison of two great bikes. {Although I will always lean towards the Honda until proven wrong!} These are the two I would consider. The visuals you make and show are very helpful to any rider to compare these bikes. I have said this before but, it is worth saying again: this is just like being there! The video is that crystal clear. ! The video is produced with time and talent for viewers to enjoy. Truly these videos are the top of the line with few even coming close. I also agree that the 6th gear is a true joy to have on the bike. Your open and honest views are filled with the knowledge of each bike. Excellent. Superior. Videos. Peace. !
I started with a DR250 then got the DR350 (Kickstart only) , moved to the DR650 , and now just picked up a used DRZ400 for 2900 . If you're not accustomed to riding tall bikes both of the latter are definitely intimidating especially to new riders. Having never ridden the Honda I can't really comment other than l think it's best feature to me would definitely be the no fuss EFI . Something I really like on all my road bikes over carburated. Tachs aren't important I feel a person should know by the sound of the motor when you get close to topping out. Great review!!!
There’s definitely a trick to getting those dr350’s cranked. It’s been many years since I had one. I think the sequence was release compression, kick 10 times then close compression? They are definitely not for the faint of heart lol.
My first DRZ400s, I took the advice from a veteran single track/dual sport racer. He told me to get the suspension setup for my weight. New springs, go up two teeth on the rear sprocket and a good set of tires makes a world of difference.
@@morsog1287 Race tech is where the suspension guy sourced the parts. Edit: I had took my current drz400sm to a suspension guy for springs and gold valves. But my 2000 drz400s I had done the springs my self. I remember I had to make some spacers from pcv pipe unions (followed the advice from the tech support at Race tech
one note, a stock DRZ puts 33 hp to the ground, honda rates the CRF at 27 at the crank, which measures roughly 23 on a dynojet. DRZ is simpler to repair also, if you're not scared of a carb. if you're into power at all a CRF may not be enough, DRZ is barely enough but the torque is very nice.
I've towed my buddies DRZ400 out of the woods on many occasions with my 250L........... just saying. 27,000 miles and 11 years old, and the 250L has never broken or left me stranded. In fact, it still has the original spark plug. Nothing has been replaced on the bike other than wheel bearings!
I really like your friendly approach to these types of motorcycles. I still ride a DR350SE which I keep evolving, but in Europe DRZs are discontinued since 2008 due to emissions. The CRF seems to be the one that will replace the DR, maybe in 2022. Keep the good videos coming!
You have a DR350! nice man love that bike. I feel in time you will see a lot more 300Ls. For one as soon as they are available but also when more people get a chance to ride them. I have a ton of people tell me they are not good bikes or their stats are bad but are doing so from a perspective of never riding the bike, let alone riding it enough to make an opinion of it. Honestly you have to ride the bike before you can know how it will feel and react. Everyone who has taken mine for a ride comes back with nothing but positive things to say.
Its probably important to note that in reference to 15:30 - the DRZ400 will 'not' run without a functioning battery, it requires fully functioning battery, stator coil and reg/rec to run. :)
DRZ all the way. I'm tall, so seat height is not an issue. I ride 90% off pavement with lots of single/no track. Ground clearance, suspension travel and power make it better for me. Tires are the key upgrade for either bike off road.
I have a 2020 crf250l and a 2021 SWM 300r and seriously looked at the DRZ400e until deciding on the SWM due to same HP but 30kg (66lbs) lighter. Really happy with the SWM and my son who learnt of n the 250l is saving up to get the 300l so good to hear the reviews. Here the price of the CRF300l is Au$7800 (which is US$5460) + 500 for 12 months on road costs (insurance is around $300 of that on road costs) SWM by comparison is $8100
Great video. Although you mentioned fuel mileage, I may have missed the range. If you are going far back in to the bush, the ability to not have to carry extra fuel is a big deal for me. Love my 300 Rally ;)
Great video. I have a 2020 DRZ which I upgraded from a 2015 CRF250L and I have to say, carburetor is not the way to go. Modern gas does not do well with carbs and the DRZ has a vacuum petcock. Unless the DRZ is ridden all the time, and you treat the gas, you are going to run into problems. And you better be handy taking it apart bc the carb is in there. Just my two cents, but I'll likely be selling my DRZ in the spring.
Once I got my DRZ dialed in, it's a dream to ride. Lowering the back end 1" really made a big difference. Not to knock the Honda, but if I had it to do over again I'd get the DRZ again.
Had the Kawasaki low and slow. Honda makes one of the best bikes out there. I have not ridden the CRF but I can’t imagine it taking the DRZ even if you dump ton parts and money in it. I’ve had 2 new DRZ’s and I just love this bike. If I thought for one minute I could get the Honda power up to the DRZ I would go out today and buy one. I raced off-road for 24 years in MX, Cross countries, enduros and trials I ride fast and I can’t see the Honda keeping up. I would rather have the Honda but……. Thanks for sharing your time and videos with us and me.
Suzuki could knock it out of the park if they would invest to put a six speed transmission and fuel injection on the DRZ400. If they really wanted to wow the dual sport and ADV community they could offer two models, a base DRZ like the base CRF300 and then a “rally” version like the CRF300 Rally. Otherwise, just add the FI and six speed and let us customize as we see fit.
Ohh yeah I would already have the DRZ400FI model if they had released it and with a 6th gear. I loved my suzuki. I didnt want to sell it eight, but I was never ridding it and I needed more for the Tenere 700.
Bore/strike out the engine a bit, add 6th gear, FI, and maybe a rally version similar to Honda's...and you have a u have the unicorn bike 🦄 Or if the honda was say 450 or 500 instead of 285 or whatever
I'm still running a 1997 DR350SE here in the United Kingdom (England), I purchased when 9 months old for £2500 with only 370 miles. 6 speed & air cooled simplicity. I fitted Stage 2 carb jets and aftermarket exhaust. They are going up in value here as are the DRZ 400. Because of emission laws, and not fuel injected, we've not had any new DRZ after 2008. They were never sold in high numbers as in the states, plus uk weather means many have rotted away etc. You are lucky to be able to purchase DRZ new & plenty second hand! I wrote to Suzuki last year suggesting that they fuel inject the DRZ for European market as I felt there was a high demand for that type of bike. They thanked me for the letter, but have done nothing. Meanwhile Honda have launched the CRF300 which is in high demand & short supply. Shame Suzuki cant spend a small amount of money developing a fuel injection system for an existing M/C (DRZ) that would certainly compete with the Honda 300 market. Add the 6th gear (DR350 gearbox) again already designed and they would have a winner.
@@bryananderson3772 that's good to hear. some people online say it's underpowered. but I highly doubt I'll surpass the capability of the 300L. especially with an EJK and exhaust mod
I love my DRZ. I love the simplicity and there is a WORLD of aftermarket for it. Has plenty of power with some mods. If it had a 6th gear I'd sign a paper that says I cant have anything else in this life for a dualsport. As far as tech...who cares, it does very little for a bike like this. The DRZ works and works well even if abused. You can make it a dirtbike or an adventure bike.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I know, I think, exactly what you mean. I'm 5'6" and by me, central NJ, all I seem to find is sand. Feels so top heavy and when it goes over just a bit and I reach down with a tip toe into sugary sand its over. Has me thinking about a beta 300 or 390. Something much lighter. But damn, those bikes are north of $11k once you set them up a little. That's a lot of money for someone that really can't ride that well.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Will do. Probably tomorrow. Have to make a FB page first. Mr antisocial here. But I've been meaning to get it for such situations and the marketplace.
@@autonomousindividual7780 ohh yeah man for marketplace alone it's worth it. It's like Craig's list except you can see right away if someone is fake or a scammer.
nice videos man. thanks. bought my 1st bike ever in June. 52 yrs old :) Honda 300L. learned off road in BC (Canada) mtns for 400 kms. From a friend with a DRZ400 [haha, irony]. then street course in August. now at 4000 kms. Great bike, especially as a learner but still good all round. Fast highway not so great but busy hwy is never fun in any vehicle
Great video. Your comparison was not biased and your points on both bikes were valid I have owned a crf 250l a Drz 400s and 400sm. I love the suspension on both Drzs. The suspension was very soft on the 250l and it was not near powerful enough for the road riding I do. The 300l sounds like a much better dual sport than it predecessor. More then adequate power. The suspension was the main reason I purchased a 400 sm. I am hopeful that suzuki will modernize both the drz400 and the dr 650. They need to give Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha some competition with a fuel injected modern design. Keep up the fantastic work!
Thanks Kurt. Some people are saying I am biased but I simply said the strengths and weaknesses of both bikes how I see it. Its hard to please everyone, especially since a lot of people that have issues with my opinion are the ones who have never rode both bikes. I also did the video on the KLX300, same thing. Some people love it some people seem to just hate my opinion, owell. Thanks for the comment
i bought my first bike a week or so ago, it is a DRZ400e 2006, I found the bike very forgiving especially for a new guy like me, i must add that I first started on a friends bike riding on a xr190, two different ponies
I'm glad that you showed the clip with the 701. The 701 is awesome on gravel because of the advanced traction control. I hope that you get a chance to ride one. Great video btw, I think your review was very fair. I subscribed and look forward to your future content. Keep up the great work.
For anyone coming to this video with the same question as me: the CRF300L makes roughly 22hp at the wheel, and the DRZ400S/SM make about 31hp at the wheel. 9-10 hp difference at this weight is a big difference. ACT gears and a 39/41 tooth rear sprocket and I think he'd change his mind on which bike he likes more.
The 400 has a massive aftermarket, parts, and options for anyone who wants a tough, reliable, and powerful bike. I know some people claim they're over 50hp on the drz.. oh, and that's a beautiful buttermilk skyline at the end
Going to buy my first dual sport, I have 3 Yamaha R6’s but you have sold me on the 300L. Gatta budget because I need to buy my girl one to. Good video!
Andrew your reviews and videos are awesome. Thank you for all your work and reviews. I have owned both of these bikes, I favor the 300L over the DRZ400S…both super fun, but I would choose the 300L for sure.
I own a 2001 DRZ and this year after much waffling, I was going to buy a KTM 390 adv but was thrown off by the electronics so I went back to what I have always liked and bought a 2021 DRZ, and you know what, other than the mods I have made over the years there is no difference, although those trail wing tires take some getting used to, wish they would hurry up and wear out
I feel like this should be a comparison of 450RL vs DRZ400, even though the RL is a clear winner. Everyone knows the DRZ has more power and better suspension to hold heavier weight. Those are usually the two things that it beats the 300L out on
Great video. I find it hard to believe that the best dual sport bikes off all time are the two spanking brand new ones lol. I bet they are good, but best of all time? I'm going to have to take your word for it since I haven't ridden either of the new 300's. I have ridden the Honda CRF250 though and that's a lame bike. It's hard to image the bike went from a zero to a hero, but maybe. I hear good things about the bike and I'm happy to see new smaller bikes being produced, so that's a great thing. Keep up the great videos.
Honesty that is a fair assessment. I was going to use that for a topic of a video coming in the future, about how well the newer bikes perform and are made.
I got a Honda XL 250 degree, 125kg on a full tank and 28hp. It's a gem but I'm definitely getting the new 300L since it just seems like a sensible upgrade and it's hard to find parts for my XL let alone mods I want
I have a 2017 DRZ 400S I did the 3x3 air box mod and JD jet kit I also put a 13 tooth drive sprocket good set of offroad tires and I ride the bike offroad 95% of the time and get around 60MPG. I have 10,000 trouble free offroad miles on the bike and it works great I don't need all the new fangle gimmicks.
I bought my very first bike this year. I based my purchase on information gathered on videos here on UA-cam such as this one! I was considering the 390 Adventure, but after 2 deals went south I decided on the DRZ 400S. I have no personal experience with any other bike. I do have some issues with my drz (kickstand safety switch is a death trap off road, I deleted it mid ride just to get out of the woods...... glad I watched that video lol). The seat is too hard (which is the general consensus). I have had it since the first of April 23', I've put just over 1300 km on it. The oil change is a joke (easy), yhea it's 2 drain plugs, 3 nuts, a cover, 2 crush rings an oil filter and 2 rubber o-rings....😅 but it's easy and accessible. I've made a few mods, handle bar grips, side case protector, upgraded tires (Tractionator Desert H/ T) front and rear, a now more permanent kickstand safety switch delete, a CF bash plate from E-line. I'm still undecided on the tank or seat as an upgrade next..... I can stand about 4 hours on the DRZ seat continuously ( that gives me about 2/3 of fuel burned off road). I hear the halogen headlights suck (I haven't driven it at night yet. Thanks for the videos. Keep em' coming!!!
Hey fellow NJ resident-- nice videos! The 300L is very exciting. I have a G650GS that I like a lot but I'm intrigued by something even smaller that is still street legal. Also, NJ needs an offroad FB group or something!
For me there was no question. Being a shorter rider the DRZ was simply too tall. I’ve owned one. Loved the power. Disliked the height, carburetor, and it only being a 5 speed. But the seat height was the kicker that sent it down the road. If Suzuki refreshed the bike, and fixed what are problems for me. I’d take one hands down.
In Europe, the DRZ isn't sold for 12 years, as far, as I remember and the KLX300 never was sold over here. Since most of the used bikes are quite old, most of them are simply garbage. So the only choice you have is a) buy a competition enduro with its low maintenance intervals (not so ideal for every day) or buy a CRF300, THAT'S IT! I bought mine in spring this year, upgraded the suspension immediately (I'm 6'1" and 200lb with all my gear, so the stock suspension was a no-go) and I'm pretty satisfied with it. Sure, some more power would be great, but otherwise, it's all I need for my trail riding.
Great comparison! You"re very thorough! I would really love to see the crf300l vs wr250r, would it be possible for you to make that happen? I know that the wrr is no longer produced, but I don't mind buying a used bike 😃
I'm in the same boat. I have an 06 DRZ 400E. Love the bike, but more comfort is what I'm looking for. After viewing your video, I'm convinced on the 300Lnow for more reasons than comfort . You opened many doors with this vid and I subscibed. Thanks. A+
great insights as always! seat height is pretty much a non-starter for me, shorty with even shortier legs. but can't knock the availability, if you want a bike NOW there's always a drz :)
The DRZ is much cheaper to mod, the suspension is much better, everything is readily available for it. Even with those mods on the CRF you're not gonna come close to a DRZ with 3x3, jetting and exhaust. It is rather annoying that Suzuki dosn't update it, but in some ways it's kind of a good thing. Also that oil change interval on the CRF sounds insane, would you really wait that long when riding offroad?
As someone with a 2001 DRZ400E and 2022 CRF300L Rally, I think this comparison is pretty spot on. I have a set of ACT wide ratio gears waiting to go into the DRZ. They space out the ratios a lot more and kind of negate the need for the 6th gear. The 468 BB Stroker kit will give it it's pep back after the gears too. You can probably buy a used DRZ, and add those parts for the price of a new Honda and have a killer bike. Just my .02
The DRZ off road version and it was was great and I had an original 2000. The biggest selling feature at the time was the reliable electric start. I have also owned several Honda 250's and 450's and without a doubt the Honda 250 or 300 would be the weapon of choice for the off road. For on road I have a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 650 which is too great for it's purpose. The DRZ is way too heavy for a long day off off roading and not nearly as flickable and not easy to rescue when disaster strikes. Honda's are way easier to work on, it was built with the service in mind and can even be fun. It is much easier to clean up and get ready to ride again. Also it is easier and faster to load and unload from your vehicle if going off road. JMO.
Unfortunately, the Honda CRF300L is unobtainable where I live. I went to the local Honda shop, and they said we had a 300L two months ago and we hope to get another before the end of the year. I asked if there is a mark-up from retail and he said total cost was just over $8,000.00 including license & title. OUCH!!
I have the rarer green version of the drz400e, also known as the 2003 Kawasaki KLX400R, as my first dual sport bike but coming from experience with motocross bikes, I'm going to have to jump on the DRZ400 train here, if you want a bike that is bulletproof and has enough power to climb some big hills,a fun thrash in the bush with your mates or even a bike for light commuting, then this is the bike for you
I had no idea NJ had so much awesome forestry for ohv riding. Definitely not what I expected. Awesome content by the way. I've been binge watching several episodes tonight lol. I subscribed a couple videos ago 🤙🏼
Well to be completely clear most people find it hard to find sports for OHV like quads and such. I know a ton of spots because I have lived here my whole life but you will not find any website for these areas, people keep them secret. What we have a lot of is underdeveloped roads and trails plus everything between that are street legal. See New jersey is a really old area in the grad scheme of the country. So we have tons of ghosts towns, state parks reserves, and unmaintained unpatrolled roads. Camping in the Pine Barrens is $3 a day (NJ resident) your camp will be connected to tons of "roads" (basically trails for wagons in the 1800s) and water ways that are on google but no one uses. So we camp and use dual sports ride ride these roads and trails. We also have the TNJT which is the heights point in NJ (high point state park) to the lowest point (cape may light house) and it is a 450mile mostly offroad experience where you camp at the state parks along the way. I was thinking of doing it in the fall and making a video series on it.
On a side note of what I was just saying about camping and riding, Wharton State Forrest (a bike state area in the pine barrens) has like 6 different camp grounds. All the site are spaced out pretty well too, well one of the camps is only 5 sites. So for 15$ a day you and some friends can reserve the whole camp ground and no one will be near you for miles! That is awesome.
That would be pretty awesome to have a whole campground (even if it's just a few lots in size) totally reserved for you and some friends. We can kinda do that in FL with some unofficial camp sites; any of the state park type sites are usually packed though. So typically we use a nice cleared area in one of the state or national forests we have, (which as far as I know totally legal) but there are no facilities obviously. That 450 mile loop would make a gnarly vlog; if you decide to do it definitely vlog it! Lol
The only bike available in the uk is the Honda. Kawasaki and Suzuki don’t think we deserve the choice in this class. A win for Honda then. Shame I have to wait until November for my 300 rally but I’ll appreciate it all the more when it lands. Great video mate 👍🏆
@@Jonathan-gz6tu because they would have to fit with new emission standards if they updated significantly their dual sport and a carbureted engine just can't pass nowadays emission requirements. Also new research and development costs would increase the price of the bike by a good margin, making it less appealing to buyers
Thank you, I try to lay out the pros and cons as a rider who would have to pick between the 2. Both bikes definitely have their pros and both have their cons.
Any one that has rode long enough knows that the old tech that is in the drz400 is exactly why it's still one of the top selling bikes and will be as long as they don't change anything other than putting the kick start back on it as a back up for the starter.
It is funny you mentioned that because I just read an article on the top selling dual sport motorcycles and the DRZ400 was number 13 out of 15 on the list. Suzuki has also fallen to the 6th largest motorcycle manufacturer with the top leader (honda) almost 5x the amount in sales numbers. Suzuki used to be on top but I think with so many years of no innovation they have fallen lower and lower. The list was as follows on annual sales. Honda $14,000,000,000 Yamaha $13,830,000,000 Baja $4,200,000,000 HarleyD $4,050,000,000 Hero $3,954,000,000 Suzuki $3,203,000,000
DRZ S is fine off and on road. Can't speak of the Honda. I had a DRZ S, but wasn't happy with longer distance on pavement. Buzzy and not stable with the height and with knobbies. Sold it when I found an E model. 30 lbs lighter and more power. The DR 650 is great if doing more pavement. Very stable and more grunt to get you going. Good off road with suspension upgrades and proper skillset. A bit heavy for tight single track. Got 2 bikes for price of 1 new.
Love the low end torque of the DRZ400E, if my current DRZ400E were to fail me, I would by the new Capeyork Edition in a heart beat, its just a fun bike to own, and the amount of after market parts and bling, you can really make the bike your own, only if the DRZ400E had a 6 speed transmission like the CRF300L
I live in Greece and the 300l costs 6000 Euros. Very expensive in my opinion. If it was cheaper I would probably think about getting one. A 1000 euros more and you could get a Beta Xtrainer 250. I know it's a different bike but I think I'll opt out for this one. I come from a Yamaha TT600R and I might try a 2-stroke as I had never had one before. And as I am not a tall person, Beta's seat height might suit me well. Anyways, your reviews are excellent and I'm looking forward the next one! Keep up with the good job!!!
Sorry for the late response but thank you so much for leaving this comment 7 month ago. I am still at it making videos and the channel is growing well.
Ive been on a 300l list for a while now, always quoted out the door price of 7.5-8k. I bought a used 2019 drz400s with low miles for 5.5k with many mods I'd have done myself. I did this after watching many videos of 300l not able to climb hills the drz has no issues with. BTW the laptop and program required to change fuel trims isnt needed on the drz, just a few screws to adjust fuel.
I climb all the hills, never an issue for me. Those people must not know how to ride. Also I got an ECU with advanced timing and 91 octane. With the 300L I dont have to change anything when I change elevation, which I do often. The 3 DRZ riders in my group, after riding both back to back, say the 300L is better. I also love 6th gear, fuel indicator, gear indicator, slipper clutch, 35" seat height, and the better ergonomics the 300L offers over the DRZ. The DRZ has better suspension and power but all the other things out weight it in my and the others opinion who ride them back to back.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad It doesnt have the power to go slow up hills, the 300l will die. Id rather have 2.5k and more power personally, all the other stuff you mentions doesnt do anything for me, sure it would be nice but at the cost of power and money I made the right choice for myself. Hopefully some day a company will make a reliable 400-500cc that is like the 300l.
**At the spec sheet on 3min the DRZ has 39HP. I tried to fix it but I cant not that it is up. Sorry for the inconvenience. Become a producer for exclusive content, Patreon link: www.patreon.com/MotorcyclesOffoad Amazon Store link: www.amazon.com/shop/EliteGamingHQ Other videos you may enjoy: WR250r vs the Honda CRF300L review: ua-cam.com/video/s0VY0wVymaY/v-deo.html T7 full Tenere 700 review: ua-cam.com/video/91R2W2Gt9Gk/v-deo.html Honda 300L full review: ua-cam.com/video/21MM-_iJhbA/v-deo.html Honda 300L VS KLX300: ua-cam.com/video/Ie3Tp0d86T0/v-deo.html Honda 300L VS DRZ400: ua-cam.com/video/QeFyBMJkMqY/v-deo.html Honda 300L VS Honda 250L: ua-cam.com/video/on1uzOHKNsk/v-deo.html Honda 300L VS Yamaha Tenere 700: ua-cam.com/video/XjaQ7DgpVlo/v-deo.html Is the Honda CRF300L really the best Dual sport: ua-cam.com/video/qBuIH0uKNpc/v-deo.html Honda CRF 300L full performance with ECU, Exhaust, and intake: ua-cam.com/video/ZM85o2Tj65w/v-deo.html BEST dual sport for adventure riding and motocamping: ua-cam.com/video/ZHIiNdR3BZQ/v-deo.html
Ive realized that for what i do and the terrain that i ride on is that the drz400 supermoto has been an amazing bike. It has offroad 17 inch tires that feel super stable because i ride in sugar sand. Only thing i could compare in sugar sand with the handling is the tw200.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad yeah, the wide tires help to keep the bike stable because ive realized on the 18 21's that the tire wants to come out from under you alot
This is honestly really helpful! thank you very much for your efforts buddy! Are either of these bikes good starter bikes for someone with a lot of bicycle experience?
I've had DRZ's for over 15 years now. My current iteration is a DRZ462cc , with ACT wide ratio gearbox and custom fuel injection with a long range tank. These modifications are only achievable because the bike is 20 years old and has had 20 years of aftermarket development. It remains to be seen how long Honda will support this new model, how long was the CRF250L around?
As far as achievements the drz should probably come fuel injected with a 6th gear out of the box. Extra range(and weight) is a preference but there are aftermarket tanks for the Honda. Tons of aftermarket for both...
I’ve got a 2018 Drz400sm and just did the Wyoming BdR on it with the 17” wheels. It was fine and did great even at 11,000’. Topped out at 90mph with full gear and I can’t find a better all around bike for the price
Great vid man! I just got a drz but i have to say i honestly had a hard time choosing bwtween the 300l and the drz, wish i saw this vid earlier lol. I ended up going with the drz because im tall and wanted a heavier suspension, i came off an 03 xr250r and figured the 300l would be too close to that. I already miss the 6th gear tho lol. Really great video and nice honest comparison!
I dont understand people like that, no reason to hate , have to be open minded with bikes. Ill be honest once i pay off my drz i may grab a 300l to have also
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CRF300L review: ua-cam.com/video/21MM-_iJhbA/v-deo.html
CRF300L vs KLX300: ua-cam.com/video/Ie3Tp0d86T0/v-deo.html
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I have my dad's 2000 dr-z400s he bought it brand new I got it when he passed away In 2016 I love it and I still ride it
I bought a DRZ400S with less than five hundred miles in 2019 for $3500. I freaking love it. Thanks for the good video
WOW, you got a deal man. Congratulation, I would have bought it too. Thats a brand new bike. Yeah I like the DRZ as of what they sell new and the price point its in my top 3.
I'm still kicking myself for not buying a new 2016 for $4,200 in late 2017. Seems to me like they are actually going up in value, you got a killer deal!
Own a 250l and have been trying to buy a 300l but , they are harder to find than Joe Biden at a press conference.
😂 I hear it is getting better tho.
Still can’t find one
Fjb
My dealer had a trail 125 and a 300L ABS come in on a Wednesday. Called in the afternoon because I wanted the 125, they called the next morning and it was already sold. I drove out that next morning and bought my 300l. Looked for both models brand new for about 5 months till I found one.
@@garym51124 I second that!!
Well done. This video strikes me as an honest, balanced comparison between the DRZ400 and the 300L. I own a 2019 DRZ400S that I heavily modified, including lowering it 30mm. It's a great DS motorcycle that leans toward it's dirtbike roots. It has *much* more torque and power than any 300L. And a 300L needs $800+ to have a comparable suspension. But it is not refined. It vibrates a bit, snarls a bit, and demands more skill and work from the rider than a 300L. Pretty much as you describe. So what do you want? A '69 V-8 Camaro or a '21 V-6 Camaro?
I was going to leave a comment till You took the words right out of my mouth. I think I'll stay with the 69V8. Well put👌:-)
@@mikew5988 awful comparison lol
The current v6 makes almost the same as a classic v8 though.. lmao
@@PureCountryof91 not the same... only on the spec sheet
@@PureCountryof91 maybe the question should be, do you want it to rumble your butt or not? Ha ha.
Interesting view point you have. I am 5"9" tall with an inseam of 30". I have had my DRZ400 from new in 2009 and have put 27000+ miles on it. No top end or even having to adjust the valves. Just put plugs and oil. This year I finally changed the coolant. Yes i have installed the 1" drop links in it but also had to change the rear shock spring to a heavier one. I have done a 400+ mile road day with the original stock seat to Daytona Beach bike week. The only thing that hurt was my wrist from holding the throttle open. But I will admit there is better seats out there than the stock and i finally broke down and got one.I got 59mpg stock. I did a 3x3 mod and jets to get better hp and throttle response. It gets 54mpg with that mod. I get all i wanted so i put a pumper carb on it and got 50mpg. I live in Georgia and have taken it to NM and CO riding single and two track in the mountains. I did change the tires to 606s. It will walk away from the Honda crf250s and the Yamaha wr250 at any elevation. But there is a much better carb (Lectron) for the DRZ that does make the bike run far better at elevation changes. The bike is top heavy and that you have to deal with. I greatly reduced the buzzing in the pegs by changing to much larger dirt bike pegs with far better grip. The dirt ability is not up to my KTM 350exc but that is a legal plated dirt bike. I have a aluminum skid plate and it does not have to be removed for an oil change. A friend and i go back country motorcycle camping and it handles the extra weight very well. I have not got to ride the new Honda 300 or Kawasaki 300 to compare. I will add that I think dual sport bikes of any manufacture are my favorite rides. I do commend you on a very well done video. Keep up the Great Work
Hello. Do you ride any of the GA state managed trails?
One of the best comparison videos that I have ever seen. I've been riding since 1958 and am ready to give up my 175 HP bikes and go back to my roots of just having fun putting around. Most of my miles will be on road looking for off road trails so vibration along with a six speed are big factors. The deal breaker for me on the Suzuki along with a host of other similar bikes is the seat height. Seat height is a big deal for 80% of my off road riding while ground clearance hardly ever has been an issue. Watching Itchy Boots on her Patagonia to Prudhoe You Tube trip sold me on the Honda's reliability. (after abandiing her Enfield in Peru due to a COVID evacutation she continued from Equador to Prudhoe on a 300 Rally)
Thank you, I am glad you liked it. And yes I have watched her as well, I did 2 videos on it.
The CRF is a nice bike but you wouldn't want to be going on a thousands of mile journey on it
In 1991,92 Suzuki already had the best dual sport motorcycle and that bike was their TS200 two stroke with power valve, oil injection, comfortable seat, weighing in at 255lbs dry. It was the funnest bike I have owned. could go anywhere a KDXcould go and it topped out around 95mph. Bridgstone M22/23 hard pack knobbies (not road legal) were amazing both on road and off. Having a hard time deciding what dual sport to buy and considering a drz or crf 300L base/no abs or the crf450RL but know in my heart it the old TS were available today i would grab it in a heart beat! Thanks to the emmissions folks we can no longer have that awesome TS
I’ve ridden the crf300l off road, owned a 250l for 2 years. Recently bought the klx 300 and I couldn’t be happier. The new 300l motor and transmission are brilliant but the klx feels far more planted and stable off road to me. Great video!
Great fair comparison, great work. When I was thinking about getting a bike after not having even sat on one for the last 45 years, my mates that ride said the DRZ was a good choice for me. I was convinced too until I sat on my son's new WR250F (37.6" seat height) and couldn't even tip toe one foot. I'm only 5' 8" so decided on 35" as a maximum. In Australia that only left the 300L, the XT250 or KTX250S without going smaller. The Honda seems the best choice of these so I ordered one a couple of months ago. Can't wait but it may be a few months more!
Keen to hear your first impressions of the 300l
@@keithkent6275 I got my bike in late Oct 2021 and I'm liking it more every ride. The only mods are an AXP bash plate, Renthal 7/8" bars, Barkbuster Jet handguards, Michelin Tracker tyres and recently changed the rear shock to a Rally Raid stage 1. The shock is excellent, much more settled over the rough stuff and even seems to make the road riding feel less twitchy. That could also be partly due to the Trackers having 1500km, so less knobs to squirm. Fuel economy is great, I usually get 32+ km/l (75 US mpg). My riding is mostly mixed trail type riding. I avoid freeways and major highways. It's a great bike for this type of stuff. I've done a bit of harder enduro with mates on Euro 2 strokes and can get it done, but I'm much slower and I don't overly enjoy it, possibly due to some wear in the 63 yr old body!
I'm Aussie too, & shorter than you. I bought a KTM 690 new in 2014 & persisted for about 4 years but just got sick of it's height, even after lowering it to the point of ruining it. Now I have CRF250L & really satisfied. I thought I'd be disappointed in the drop in power, & yeah that enters my head but only infrequently. Rest of the time I'm just loving the 250's refinement onroad & offroad, the quality, reliability, affordability. Thought about tradein for 300 but not in any hurry. I feel the CRF will take me anywhere I want, and get me home, enjoyably & in comfort. Best tool for my job.
This is one of the best and well-balanced videos I’ve watched, and sadly I have watched way too many videos.
Yesterday I was going to buy a DRZ. Today it looks like I’m going to be a Honda boy
Tune in tomorrow, it’ll be a Yamaha.
I owned a DRZ400S and currently own a new CRF300L. The only thing the DRZ wins out on is power. That's it for me. Totally agree on the DRZ wanting to stand straight up or lay on its side. But man I miss twisting the throttle on the DRZ
Todd this is exactly what I am saying in the video. The problem is most people cant handle hearing anything but positive stuff about the bikes they like. I mean Im trying to be fair as possible but also speak how I really feel.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Did we just become best friends?!?! Ride safe!
Does the 300L still have adequate power tho? Is it almost a deal breaker? I'm wanting to pay off my Harley and get one and I'm a Honda fan
I own a DRZ400sm. Using the supermoto rims I put on big knobby tires. Before the hate begins let me just say I have had a crf250x, crf450x, and a ktm530exc with plenty of off road and on road experience. I have been riding real dirt bikes since I was 5. All plated and street legal. The best and most fun bike I have ridden is the drz400sm on dirt tires. Destroys twisty roads and is super fun off road. Don’t knock until you try it.
Also did the JD kit on the drz and it was a game changer.
I mean it could be good/fun. The thing is the more you move from one path the less efficient you are at another. So the twisty roads you mentioned are more dangerous with a higher change of slipping out because you have a much small contact patch with knobbies, less rubber touching the road. Offroad I can tell you a 17" rim will suffer hard on logs and rocks compared to the 21" front of a true dual sport. Some of the places I ride in the mountains you would have a really hard time with this size tire.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Ride the back woods of NH, ME, VT. Those bikes Iisted prior to my drz are some of the best off road bikes around. I have been log hopping and riding nasty terrain on that bike and never had an issue. In fact if you measure the 17 with a big knobby its only a half inch smaller than a 21 with a tire on it. Don’t forget its not always the bike. Most of time its the rider.
Also when I ride my drz it is 95 percent hard off road with a little bit of dirt roads and a touch of pavement. Trust me I can ride the dirt. Been doing it my whole life.
I own a DRZ400SM (supermoto model) and my son has a 300L dual sport. I've ridden both, and there's a reason the DRZ costs more. It's just a better bike overall. Ya ya, it's old tech, but once you get it dialed in, it's a great bike. To get the 300L to that same level, you would have to spend quite a bit more upgrading the suspension, and you will never get the same amount of power out of it since it has the smaller motor. The 300L is fun, but if you want a supermoto, the DRZ is hard to beat. Both are fun bikes, but if I had.... say.... $8000 to spend on a bike and mods, I'd take the DRZ everytime.
Yes, a supermoto with a larger engine will be better on the road than a true dual sport.
Right tool for the right job.
Asides the extra grunt I don't see much advantage to the drz400. It weighs more and has a higher center of gravity, it only has a 5 speed, and it's still carbureted. If power is the main concern, neither are very fast. In this case the cheaper bike is packed with more features like abs and slipper clutch(and a decent display & modern electronics)
@@Largetalons Чем плох карбюратор? Он надёжнее.
@@Largetalons carb makes the throttle more snappy better for wheels. 5 speed dont matter not like your doing much highway on a dual sport anyways. Plus you got more torque. 300 needs 6 or she died young. Lol
I own a DRZ and my riding buddy has a KLX300. Your review hits the nail on the head. The DRZ is a fantastic bike for its age and deserves respect for staying relevant for so long but it is an old design and the new 300’s are surpassing it in SOME areas. Very interesting in looking at the spec sheets with the DR350 in the mix. Can’t help wondering what an updated DR350 would look like. And by updated I mean add liquid cooling fuel injection, modern chassis, suspension and brakes but try and hit the rest of the old specs. Hmmmm come on Suzuki!
I wish
The DRZ IS an upgraded DR 350 lol.....just such an ancient upgrade it does not much matter now is all....WHY Suzuki cheaped out on the transmission i have no idea but that was DUMB as he!! Had they only gotten that right (6 speed) this model would have been so worthy upgrading with fuel injection in recent years but as it stands Suzuki knows it would be feeding oats to a dead horse so they just keep selling the same old clunker to the few who will still buy them cause their buddy has one or ignorance or whatever...Everytime I think of it it angers me at Suzuki much the same kind of anger as against other companies that wont get off their butts...like Harley ignoring most genres of motorcycling (well finally they built a huge adv bike at least) Honda has such an apparent love of motorcycles being willing to build new and better machines for their loyal customers...Suzuki? They dont try much if you ask me expecially compared to Honda who listened to customers clamoring for the ultimate big bore dual sport for instance. Honda COULD have put lights and turn signals on the crf450r but instead they took the high road and re engineered THAT engine with new center cases large enough to fit a 6 speed tranny into and then went over all the other aspects to make it right for dual sport customers....a company that truly deserves customer loyalty compared to Suzuki
And the electric boot! The dr350 is still stomp start...I believe.
I rode the DRZ and both Honda and Kawi. I went with the “ancient” DRZ because of the power and torque. I weigh 200lbs and the 300s are gutless. Power is much more important to me than carb vs EFI and 5 vs 6 speed. Everyone downs the DRZ for 5 gears but because of the bigger engine and the gear ratios, gear spacing the DRZ revs less and has higher top speed and much more power on the freeway so 5 speed is not an issue. The DRZ suspension is also way better. It looks good on paper to have 6 speed and EFI but in real world riding the larger engined DRZ is much better in my opinion simply because of the power, the 300s are gutless……
I had drz400s for a 10 yrs, and now i own crf300l. Drz have better power and torque and much better suspension than CRF. But worst thig about drz is close ratio gear box and vibey engine on higher revs, in that area crf is shining, very smooth engine and exelent gearbox. Worst thing on crf is suspension, especialy rear shock. I changed a lot of duals sport bikes, but non of them had so bad shock as crf.
Had a drz for 4 years now, have put 16,000 rough miles. Changing the oil every 1000 miles. Its the 4th bike I had, and by far my favorite. I'm only 5 foot 9, and havent had any issues with it on trails feeling too top heavy, have taken it through things I never should have been doing, and the old dirty drz kept me up, and got me through it. I dont think I'll ever get rid of the beast!
I had a 2001 DRZ400 and loved it. Then in 2009 the NFS failed to put out a fire because it was evening and they wanted to go home. By the next day it was out of control, raged for over a month and burned 150 square miles of the San Gabriels. The NFS were delighted. It meant they could close every fire road. I waited 5 years but it became apparent the lazy sods were never going to reopen the roads, so I sold my DRZ. I still miss it.
Almost went drz, but the rally won me over with the fuel injection, 8000 service intervals, fuel mileage, & price. Felt I was going to get a bigger bang for my buck. Will hang onto my 94 dr 350s because I still love the Suzuki
Is the lack of power disappointing?
I had been eyeballing a DR350 for over a year that I planned on buying on consignment. The guy took over a year and never had the bike ready to sell, so I decided the next logical step was the DRZ400. I could not shake the itch to finally ride off road, so I bought it in May of this year and it has taken over my life. I absolutely love this bike and am having a hard time getting on my other 4 road motorcycles (also have a '19 ZX6R, '05 Kawasaki Vulcan, '02 Suzuki Savage, and '18 Honda Grom).
Learning to ride on dirt with this bike has definitely been humbling. It's "thrown me off" at least four times since owning it. Someone either smarter than me or less determined would easily lose confidence trying to learn to ride off road on this bike, as I had trouble getting back on this bike a couple times feeling like it wanted to kill me (I do ride very technical terrain vs my personal skill level).
If I were to suggest a bike to start on, never ridden off road before, I wouldn't in good conscience, be able to recommend the DRZ400 to someone based on my experience. That being said, I personally made the right choice purchasing this bike now that I have begun to tame this thing!
The DRZ is definitely not a beginner bike as it requires good throttle and clutch control to tame in the woods! Tight turns also require commitment due to the high center of gravity and the heavy weight of the bike!
@@FlameHazeist very true. And if you can't flat foot it, it becomes even more challenging. Especially on uneven terrain, low traction areas, etc.
@@DR4WZ Tight turns on uneven terrain require even more commitment 😁. Funnily enough I also bought my DRZ in May and if it weren't for my 32" inseam I definitely would have fallen off a lot more 😆! Very low traction areas without the possibility of dabbing are definitely dreadful when you don't have good balancing skills yet! Ice obstacles are simply dreadful😬!
@@FlameHazeist 32" inseam here too. Someone's wish I were closer to a 34" with this bike! But again, I wouldn't trade my DR-Z for anything. It's just the right amount of fun, challenging, frustrating, rewarding. Actually now trying to find a reasonably priced DR200 for my wife so she can start riding trails with me.
@@DR4WZ I also concur with the wish of being able to easily dab out of every sticky situation 😁. I'd trade mine, though it will only be when I can afford both the bike and the extra maintenance! The thought of riding the same 246 lbs bike as Graham Jarvis is simply too hard to resist! It will be a while though, so perfect excuse to become a better rider in the mean time😁.
With my near stock (3x3 mod, jetting) 2007 DRZ400S I get 52mpg-60mpg. Mostly highway is 52mpg and mostly dirt roads I get 60mpg.
Nice review, thanks. Buying new I would pick the CRF300L, no contest. But I bought used with a $3k budget and the DRZ400S won, no contest.
Yeah for 3k you cant beat a DRZ.
I called Honda Powersports Chattanooga TN 9/28/2001 looking for the 2021 CRF300L Rally. Was told two to three months wait. They called next day and delivered it to me 9/30/2021. I saved $1700 over another dealer in GA. No dealer fees, no delivery fees. MSRP and $30 administrative fee only. I called 10 other dealers and no one had one of these in stock and did not know when they would get one. My salesman was Gus and very pleased with this purchase/service by dealer.
I'm seventy two years young and been riding along time. I have a 2021 crf 300l and love it. Very easy to ride great gas mileage. I did add a better seat a small wind screen and skid plate.
I have a CRF250L and 2x DRZ400s with uograded carbs, exhaust and intake.
The CRF is very mild, easy to ride, gets the job done.
The DRZ is wild by comparison, much more fun. Better suspension.
Depends on your needs and experience to choose between the 2
Yeah I found the 250L to be a bit sluggish compared to my 300L.
I first saw one of your videos yesterday. Then knowing nothing of where you were riding, I thought "gee, that looks like the NJ Pines or thereabouts! Glad to see that I correctly recognized the location despite not having ridden in Southern NJ for over 30 years! I still miss it, nothing like it in Connecticut. I even have asked to have my cremains scattered in the Wharton Forest, that's how much i miss it.
I've had a Drz400s in the past now got a BMW G650GS Sertao which is good on the Motorway sits happy at 75-80mph but is heavy off road at 190kg.
Road my sons road legal Honda Crf450x and loved it off road, so light and powerful but the service intervals are a joke.
So I'm getting a Crf300L.
I go with the Honda. Service intervals and overall cost & Honda dependability makes the CRF 300L the hands down winner IMO. Peace and long life!
how do you know? the bike is made in china with tons of cheap Chinese parts. where as the DRZ is made in JAPAN with quality parts. and as suzuki had a 5 year warranty (a few years ago) and honda will kinda cover you for 6 months. WAIT a minute...you are one of those HONDA IS BEST kinda person, aren't you? where as i am a honda mechanic...
My 300L is shit bro. Have fun
Then the drz is for u long service intervals reliable bike n more power
@@paulmorneault3994 The CRF300L is made in Thailand, not China. I can't vouge for how much that could affect the build quality over the principle of it not being made in Japan, but they have the best reliability reputation for a reason that begins with the engineering done in Japan when developing the bike. If anything, people should be comparing it to a KLX300 which is much more of an apples to apples comparison in terms of modern tech, size, weight, and rider feel. Where did you see that it's made in China, or even made with cheap Chinese parts?
@@awatts222 why ya say that
A little dramatic intro is always good! This is a great comparison of two great bikes. {Although I will always lean towards the Honda until proven wrong!} These are the two I would consider. The visuals you make and show are very helpful to any rider to compare these bikes. I have said this before but, it is worth saying again: this is just like being there! The video is that crystal clear. ! The video is produced with time and talent for viewers to enjoy. Truly these videos are the top of the line with few even coming close. I also agree that the 6th gear is a true joy to have on the bike. Your open and honest views are filled with the knowledge of each bike. Excellent. Superior. Videos. Peace. !
I started with a DR250 then got the DR350 (Kickstart only) , moved to the DR650 , and now just picked up a used DRZ400 for 2900 . If you're not accustomed to riding tall bikes both of the latter are definitely intimidating especially to new riders. Having never ridden the Honda I can't really comment other than l think it's best feature to me would definitely be the no fuss EFI . Something I really like on all my road bikes over carburated. Tachs aren't important I feel a person should know by the sound of the motor when you get close to topping out. Great review!!!
There’s definitely a trick to getting those dr350’s cranked. It’s been many years since I had one. I think the sequence was release compression, kick 10 times then close compression? They are definitely not for the faint of heart lol.
My first DRZ400s, I took the advice from a veteran single track/dual sport racer. He told me to get the suspension setup for my weight. New springs, go up two teeth on the rear sprocket and a good set of tires makes a world of difference.
where did you get the new springs for your weight?
@@morsog1287 Race tech is where the suspension guy sourced the parts.
Edit: I had took my current drz400sm to a suspension guy for springs and gold valves. But my 2000 drz400s I had done the springs my self. I remember I had to make some spacers from pcv pipe unions (followed the advice from the tech support at Race tech
one note, a stock DRZ puts 33 hp to the ground, honda rates the CRF at 27 at the crank, which measures roughly 23 on a dynojet. DRZ is simpler to repair also, if you're not scared of a carb. if you're into power at all a CRF may not be enough, DRZ is barely enough but the torque is very nice.
I've towed my buddies DRZ400 out of the woods on many occasions with my 250L........... just saying. 27,000 miles and 11 years old, and the 250L has never broken or left me stranded. In fact, it still has the original spark plug. Nothing has been replaced on the bike other than wheel bearings!
I really like your friendly approach to these types of motorcycles. I still ride a DR350SE which I keep evolving, but in Europe DRZs are discontinued since 2008 due to emissions. The CRF seems to be the one that will replace the DR, maybe in 2022.
Keep the good videos coming!
You have a DR350! nice man love that bike. I feel in time you will see a lot more 300Ls. For one as soon as they are available but also when more people get a chance to ride them. I have a ton of people tell me they are not good bikes or their stats are bad but are doing so from a perspective of never riding the bike, let alone riding it enough to make an opinion of it. Honestly you have to ride the bike before you can know how it will feel and react. Everyone who has taken mine for a ride comes back with nothing but positive things to say.
Europe is such a terrible place to live now. More and more every year they tell you how you should live your life
@@bryananderson3772 , same thing in the U.S. It's called the NWO.
Same with California lol
Its probably important to note that in reference to 15:30 - the DRZ400 will 'not' run without a functioning battery, it requires fully functioning battery, stator coil and reg/rec to run. :)
Got the sunset. Great review. I've got a DRZ and was thinking of getting a CRF 300 rally. Cheers for the insights
DRZ all the way. I'm tall, so seat height is not an issue. I ride 90% off pavement with lots of single/no track. Ground clearance, suspension travel and power make it better for me. Tires are the key upgrade for either bike off road.
I have a 2020 crf250l and a 2021 SWM 300r and seriously looked at the DRZ400e until deciding on the SWM due to same HP but 30kg (66lbs) lighter. Really happy with the SWM and my son who learnt of n the 250l is saving up to get the 300l so good to hear the reviews. Here the price of the CRF300l is Au$7800 (which is US$5460) + 500 for 12 months on road costs (insurance is around $300 of that on road costs) SWM by comparison is $8100
I would also be interested to see the swm300 against the 250l
Great video. Although you mentioned fuel mileage, I may have missed the range. If you are going far back in to the bush, the ability to not have to carry extra fuel is a big deal for me. Love my 300 Rally ;)
Great video. I have a 2020 DRZ which I upgraded from a 2015 CRF250L and I have to say, carburetor is not the way to go. Modern gas does not do well with carbs and the DRZ has a vacuum petcock. Unless the DRZ is ridden all the time, and you treat the gas, you are going to run into problems. And you better be handy taking it apart bc the carb is in there. Just my two cents, but I'll likely be selling my DRZ in the spring.
what are you getting instead?
Once I got my DRZ dialed in, it's a dream to ride. Lowering the back end 1" really made a big difference. Not to knock the Honda, but if I had it to do over again I'd get the DRZ again.
Had the Kawasaki low and slow. Honda makes one of the best bikes out there. I have not ridden the CRF but I can’t imagine it taking the DRZ even if you dump ton parts and money in it. I’ve had 2 new DRZ’s and I just love this bike. If I thought for one minute I could get the Honda power up to the DRZ I would go out today and buy one. I raced off-road for 24 years in MX, Cross countries, enduros and trials I ride fast and I can’t see the Honda keeping up. I would rather have the Honda but…….
Thanks for sharing your time and videos with us and me.
Suzuki could knock it out of the park if they would invest to put a six speed transmission and fuel injection on the DRZ400. If they really wanted to wow the dual sport and ADV community they could offer two models, a base DRZ like the base CRF300 and then a “rally” version like the CRF300 Rally. Otherwise, just add the FI and six speed and let us customize as we see fit.
Ohh yeah I would already have the DRZ400FI model if they had released it and with a 6th gear. I loved my suzuki. I didnt want to sell it eight, but I was never ridding it and I needed more for the Tenere 700.
Bore/strike out the engine a bit, add 6th gear, FI, and maybe a rally version similar to Honda's...and you have a u have the unicorn bike 🦄
Or if the honda was say 450 or 500 instead of 285 or whatever
It would probably be pushing ten grand though….
I'm still running a 1997 DR350SE here in the United Kingdom (England), I purchased when 9 months old for £2500 with only 370 miles. 6 speed & air cooled simplicity. I fitted Stage 2 carb jets and aftermarket exhaust. They are going up in value here as are the DRZ 400. Because of emission laws, and not fuel injected, we've not had any new DRZ after 2008. They were never sold in high numbers as in the states, plus uk weather means many have rotted away etc. You are lucky to be able to purchase DRZ new & plenty second hand! I wrote to Suzuki last year suggesting that they fuel inject the DRZ for European market as I felt there was a high demand for that type of bike. They thanked me for the letter, but have done nothing. Meanwhile Honda have launched the CRF300 which is in high demand & short supply. Shame Suzuki cant spend a small amount of money developing a fuel injection system for an existing M/C (DRZ) that would certainly compete with the Honda 300 market. Add the 6th gear (DR350 gearbox) again already designed and they would have a winner.
YO!! been waiting for this review. love it man! I think i'm gonna go with Honda 300L for much safer road riding and just a more modern bike overall.
Awesome man, you will not regret it!
I Justin got mine yesterday. You'll love it. It has plenty of power
Congratulations on the new bike!
@@bryananderson3772 that's good to hear. some people online say it's underpowered. but I highly doubt I'll surpass the capability of the 300L. especially with an EJK and exhaust mod
@@ficklepickle2495 there's always a more powerful bike. This bike is perfect for what it is designed for
I love my DRZ. I love the simplicity and there is a WORLD of aftermarket for it. Has plenty of power with some mods. If it had a 6th gear I'd sign a paper that says I cant have anything else in this life for a dualsport. As far as tech...who cares, it does very little for a bike like this. The DRZ works and works well even if abused. You can make it a dirtbike or an adventure bike.
Yeah dont get me wrong I love the DRZ, my only thing is it always feels less balanced to me. I love the way the 300L feels on trails.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I know, I think, exactly what you mean. I'm 5'6" and by me, central NJ, all I seem to find is sand. Feels so top heavy and when it goes over just a bit and I reach down with a tip toe into sugary sand its over. Has me thinking about a beta 300 or 390. Something much lighter. But damn, those bikes are north of $11k once you set them up a little. That's a lot of money for someone that really can't ride that well.
@@autonomousindividual7780 add MotorCyclesoffroad on Facebook and send me a message, maybe we can meet up for a ride.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Will do. Probably tomorrow. Have to make a FB page first. Mr antisocial here. But I've been meaning to get it for such situations and the marketplace.
@@autonomousindividual7780 ohh yeah man for marketplace alone it's worth it. It's like Craig's list except you can see right away if someone is fake or a scammer.
nice videos man. thanks. bought my 1st bike ever in June. 52 yrs old :) Honda 300L. learned off road in BC (Canada) mtns for 400 kms. From a friend with a DRZ400 [haha, irony]. then street course in August. now at 4000 kms. Great bike, especially as a learner but still good all round. Fast highway not so great but busy hwy is never fun in any vehicle
Great video. Your comparison was not biased and your points on both bikes were valid I have owned a crf 250l a Drz 400s and 400sm. I love the suspension on both Drzs. The suspension was very soft on the 250l and it was not near powerful enough for the road riding I do. The 300l sounds like a much better dual sport than it predecessor. More then adequate power. The suspension was the main reason I purchased a 400 sm. I am hopeful that suzuki will modernize both the drz400 and the dr 650. They need to give Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha some competition with a fuel injected modern design. Keep up the fantastic work!
Thanks Kurt. Some people are saying I am biased but I simply said the strengths and weaknesses of both bikes how I see it. Its hard to please everyone, especially since a lot of people that have issues with my opinion are the ones who have never rode both bikes. I also did the video on the KLX300, same thing. Some people love it some people seem to just hate my opinion, owell. Thanks for the comment
i bought my first bike a week or so ago, it is a DRZ400e 2006, I found the bike very forgiving especially for a new guy like me, i must add that I first started on a friends bike riding on a xr190, two different ponies
Have fun on it. You'll love the bike
I'm glad that you showed the clip with the 701. The 701 is awesome on gravel because of the advanced traction control. I hope that you get a chance to ride one. Great video btw, I think your review was very fair. I subscribed and look forward to your future content. Keep up the great work.
For anyone coming to this video with the same question as me: the CRF300L makes roughly 22hp at the wheel, and the DRZ400S/SM make about 31hp at the wheel. 9-10 hp difference at this weight is a big difference.
ACT gears and a 39/41 tooth rear sprocket and I think he'd change his mind on which bike he likes more.
The 400 has a massive aftermarket, parts, and options for anyone who wants a tough, reliable, and powerful bike. I know some people claim they're over 50hp on the drz.. oh, and that's a beautiful buttermilk skyline at the end
Going to buy my first dual sport, I have 3 Yamaha R6’s but you have sold me on the 300L. Gatta budget because I need to buy my girl one to. Good video!
Andrew your reviews and videos are awesome. Thank you for all your work and reviews. I have owned both of these bikes, I favor the 300L over the DRZ400S…both super fun, but I would choose the 300L for sure.
Glad to hear you enjoy the videos, the reviews in particular I put a lot of time into.
I own a 2001 DRZ and this year after much waffling, I was going to buy a KTM 390 adv but was thrown off by the electronics so I went back to what I have always liked and bought a 2021 DRZ, and you know what, other than the mods I have made over the years there is no difference, although those trail wing tires take some getting used to, wish they would hurry up and wear out
I feel like this should be a comparison of 450RL vs DRZ400, even though the RL is a clear winner. Everyone knows the DRZ has more power and better suspension to hold heavier weight. Those are usually the two things that it beats the 300L out on
Crf user. 5'11, 85kg
No regrets off & on road
Great video. I find it hard to believe that the best dual sport bikes off all time are the two spanking brand new ones lol. I bet they are good, but best of all time? I'm going to have to take your word for it since I haven't ridden either of the new 300's. I have ridden the Honda CRF250 though and that's a lame bike. It's hard to image the bike went from a zero to a hero, but maybe. I hear good things about the bike and I'm happy to see new smaller bikes being produced, so that's a great thing. Keep up the great videos.
Honesty that is a fair assessment. I was going to use that for a topic of a video coming in the future, about how well the newer bikes perform and are made.
We ride exactly this kind of trails. I have the DRZ and several of the others have CRF250 & CRF300. I Like the Michelin Tracker tyres
I got a Honda XL 250 degree, 125kg on a full tank and 28hp. It's a gem but I'm definitely getting the new 300L since it just seems like a sensible upgrade and it's hard to find parts for my XL let alone mods I want
You will absolutely love the 300L. Mine is amazing
Did you end up getting that 300L?
Same here Bryan.
I have a 2017 DRZ 400S I did the 3x3 air box mod and JD jet kit I also put a 13 tooth drive sprocket good set of offroad tires and I ride the bike offroad 95% of the time and get around 60MPG. I have 10,000 trouble free offroad miles on the bike and it works great I don't need all the new fangle gimmicks.
I bought my very first bike this year. I based my purchase on information gathered on videos here on UA-cam such as this one! I was considering the 390 Adventure, but after 2 deals went south I decided on the DRZ 400S. I have no personal experience with any other bike. I do have some issues with my drz (kickstand safety switch is a death trap off road, I deleted it mid ride just to get out of the woods...... glad I watched that video lol). The seat is too hard (which is the general consensus).
I have had it since the first of April 23', I've put just over 1300 km on it.
The oil change is a joke (easy), yhea it's 2 drain plugs, 3 nuts, a cover, 2 crush rings an oil filter and 2 rubber o-rings....😅 but it's easy and accessible.
I've made a few mods, handle bar grips, side case protector, upgraded tires (Tractionator Desert H/ T) front and rear, a now more permanent kickstand safety switch delete, a CF bash plate from E-line.
I'm still undecided on the tank or seat as an upgrade next..... I can stand about 4 hours on the DRZ seat continuously ( that gives me about 2/3 of fuel burned off road).
I hear the halogen headlights suck (I haven't driven it at night yet.
Thanks for the videos. Keep em' coming!!!
Good job Andrew. I liked your intro, also think you did a good job with the chart comparing all the specs.
Thank you, love all the support.
Channel is growing fast man! Love to see it! Keep up the good work! 🙌🏻👊🏻✊🏻👊🏻✊🏻
Thanks man, Yeah I have been putting a lot of time and detail into the videos.
Hey fellow NJ resident-- nice videos! The 300L is very exciting. I have a G650GS that I like a lot but I'm intrigued by something even smaller that is still street legal. Also, NJ needs an offroad FB group or something!
We have one, you want in?
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I'd love to see it!
For me there was no question. Being a shorter rider the DRZ was simply too tall. I’ve owned one. Loved the power. Disliked the height, carburetor, and it only being a 5 speed. But the seat height was the kicker that sent it down the road. If Suzuki refreshed the bike, and fixed what are problems for me. I’d take one hands down.
In Europe, the DRZ isn't sold for 12 years, as far, as I remember and the KLX300 never was sold over here. Since most of the used bikes are quite old, most of them are simply garbage. So the only choice you have is a) buy a competition enduro with its low maintenance intervals (not so ideal for every day) or buy a CRF300, THAT'S IT! I bought mine in spring this year, upgraded the suspension immediately (I'm 6'1" and 200lb with all my gear, so the stock suspension was a no-go) and I'm pretty satisfied with it. Sure, some more power would be great, but otherwise, it's all I need for my trail riding.
Great comparison! You"re very thorough!
I would really love to see the crf300l vs wr250r, would it be possible for you to make that happen? I know that the wrr is no longer produced, but I don't mind buying a used bike 😃
Excellent video. Great information, specs, and comparison of two great motorcycles.
Good comparison and review. It helped me a lot to choose my new motorcycle. Thank you and I wish you much continued success🙂👍
The DRZ is the king. It’s a classic that will NEVER die
I have a full DRZ review coming soon, was working on the bike last weekend actually.
I'm in the same boat. I have an 06 DRZ 400E. Love the bike, but more comfort is what I'm looking for. After viewing your video, I'm convinced on the 300Lnow for more reasons than comfort . You opened many doors with this vid and I subscibed. Thanks. A+
great insights as always! seat height is pretty much a non-starter for me, shorty with even shortier legs. but can't knock the availability, if you want a bike NOW there's always a drz :)
Well at first the seat height will matter, after a few years of riding you will be able to easily handle taller bikes.
@@MotorcyclesOffroadyou can lower the drz.
The DRZ is much cheaper to mod, the suspension is much better, everything is readily available for it. Even with those mods on the CRF you're not gonna come close to a DRZ with 3x3, jetting and exhaust. It is rather annoying that Suzuki dosn't update it, but in some ways it's kind of a good thing. Also that oil change interval on the CRF sounds insane, would you really wait that long when riding offroad?
As someone with a 2001 DRZ400E and 2022 CRF300L Rally, I think this comparison is pretty spot on. I have a set of ACT wide ratio gears waiting to go into the DRZ. They space out the ratios a lot more and kind of negate the need for the 6th gear. The 468 BB Stroker kit will give it it's pep back after the gears too. You can probably buy a used DRZ, and add those parts for the price of a new Honda and have a killer bike. Just my .02
The DRZ off road version and it was was great and I had an original 2000. The biggest selling feature at the time was the reliable electric start. I have also owned several Honda 250's and 450's and without a doubt the Honda 250 or 300 would be the weapon of choice for the off road. For on road I have a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 650 which is too great for it's purpose. The DRZ is way too heavy for a long day off off roading and not nearly as flickable and not easy to rescue when disaster strikes. Honda's are way easier to work on, it was built with the service in mind and can even be fun. It is much easier to clean up and get ready to ride again.
Also it is easier and faster to load and unload from your vehicle if going off road. JMO.
Unfortunately, the Honda CRF300L is unobtainable where I live. I went to the local Honda shop, and they said we had a 300L two months ago and we hope to get another before the end of the year. I asked if there is a mark-up from retail and he said total cost was just over $8,000.00 including license & title. OUCH!!
Superb video thanks for taking the time to share your opinions really nailed the info I was looking for :)
Well thank you for watching, I am glad you enjoyed the content.
I have the rarer green version of the drz400e, also known as the 2003 Kawasaki KLX400R, as my first dual sport bike but coming from experience with motocross bikes, I'm going to have to jump on the DRZ400 train here, if you want a bike that is bulletproof and has enough power to climb some big hills,a fun thrash in the bush with your mates or even a bike for light commuting, then this is the bike for you
Nice comparison mate. I joined you and went with the CRF.. now just to get my hands on it from the dealer.. :')
Yeah, I hear it is getting better are more bikes are available. Just have to check around and be patient I guess.
Wish you could actually buy one of these honda crf 300l. Good video, the intro was definitely unique.
Do you mean because lack of stock? I sure more will be coming and next year a lot more people will have them.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad YES STOCK.
I had no idea NJ had so much awesome forestry for ohv riding. Definitely not what I expected. Awesome content by the way. I've been binge watching several episodes tonight lol. I subscribed a couple videos ago 🤙🏼
Well to be completely clear most people find it hard to find sports for OHV like quads and such. I know a ton of spots because I have lived here my whole life but you will not find any website for these areas, people keep them secret. What we have a lot of is underdeveloped roads and trails plus everything between that are street legal. See New jersey is a really old area in the grad scheme of the country. So we have tons of ghosts towns, state parks reserves, and unmaintained unpatrolled roads. Camping in the Pine Barrens is $3 a day (NJ resident) your camp will be connected to tons of "roads" (basically trails for wagons in the 1800s) and water ways that are on google but no one uses. So we camp and use dual sports ride ride these roads and trails. We also have the TNJT which is the heights point in NJ (high point state park) to the lowest point (cape may light house) and it is a 450mile mostly offroad experience where you camp at the state parks along the way. I was thinking of doing it in the fall and making a video series on it.
On a side note of what I was just saying about camping and riding, Wharton State Forrest (a bike state area in the pine barrens) has like 6 different camp grounds. All the site are spaced out pretty well too, well one of the camps is only 5 sites. So for 15$ a day you and some friends can reserve the whole camp ground and no one will be near you for miles! That is awesome.
That would be pretty awesome to have a whole campground (even if it's just a few lots in size) totally reserved for you and some friends. We can kinda do that in FL with some unofficial camp sites; any of the state park type sites are usually packed though. So typically we use a nice cleared area in one of the state or national forests we have, (which as far as I know totally legal) but there are no facilities obviously.
That 450 mile loop would make a gnarly vlog; if you decide to do it definitely vlog it! Lol
The only bike available in the uk is the Honda. Kawasaki and Suzuki don’t think we deserve the choice in this class. A win for Honda then. Shame I have to wait until November for my 300 rally but I’ll appreciate it all the more when it lands. Great video mate 👍🏆
Hey man either way, the rally is a solid bike. Im sure you will like it!
The next drz400 is going to be amazing
Yeah I think so too, fuel injection and 6th gear... it would be amazing.
When is that supposed to happen? Why do these companies never update their bikes?
@@Jonathan-gz6tu because they would have to fit with new emission standards if they updated significantly their dual sport and a carbureted engine just can't pass nowadays emission requirements.
Also new research and development costs would increase the price of the bike by a good margin, making it less appealing to buyers
Great, informative upload Andrew, been riding bikes (all types > 1988) Eeek.. CRF looks great, DRZ, solid. Appreciated. UK.
Good video buddy I own a 2020 DRZ400 looking for a dirt bike now
Very good vid. Lots of unbiased information and honest opinion.
Thank you, I try to lay out the pros and cons as a rider who would have to pick between the 2. Both bikes definitely have their pros and both have their cons.
Awesome review I was looking at these two bikes. Sub’d!
Thanks, I have been working on a stand alone DRZ review.
Any one that has rode long enough knows that the old tech that is in the drz400 is exactly why it's still one of the top selling bikes and will be as long as they don't change anything other than putting the kick start back on it as a back up for the starter.
It is funny you mentioned that because I just read an article on the top selling dual sport motorcycles and the DRZ400 was number 13 out of 15 on the list. Suzuki has also fallen to the 6th largest motorcycle manufacturer with the top leader (honda) almost 5x the amount in sales numbers. Suzuki used to be on top but I think with so many years of no innovation they have fallen lower and lower.
The list was as follows on annual sales.
Honda $14,000,000,000
Yamaha $13,830,000,000
Baja $4,200,000,000
HarleyD $4,050,000,000
Hero $3,954,000,000
Suzuki $3,203,000,000
Gday, great video. How would you compare them to the DR650?
DRZ S is fine off and on road. Can't speak of the Honda.
I had a DRZ S, but wasn't happy with longer distance on pavement. Buzzy and not stable with the height and with knobbies. Sold it when I found an E model. 30 lbs lighter and more power.
The DR 650 is great if doing more pavement. Very stable and more grunt to get you going.
Good off road with suspension upgrades and proper skillset. A bit heavy for tight single track.
Got 2 bikes for price of 1 new.
I liked the video. The intro, though, I didn’t like. I’m glad I stuck with it or I would have missed the rest of the video. Good analysis!
Damn, Im sorry you didnt like it. We just wanted to do something different for fun.
Love the low end torque of the DRZ400E, if my current DRZ400E were to fail me, I would by the new Capeyork Edition in a heart beat, its just a fun bike to own, and the amount of after market parts and bling, you can really make the bike your own, only if the DRZ400E had a 6 speed transmission like the CRF300L
You speak very well and have great insight 😊❤
I live in Greece and the 300l costs 6000 Euros. Very expensive in my opinion. If it was cheaper I would probably think about getting one. A 1000 euros more and you could get a Beta Xtrainer 250. I know it's a different bike but I think I'll opt out for this one. I come from a Yamaha TT600R and I might try a 2-stroke as I had never had one before. And as I am not a tall person, Beta's seat height might suit me well.
Anyways, your reviews are excellent and I'm looking forward the next one! Keep up with the good job!!!
Sorry for the late response but thank you so much for leaving this comment 7 month ago. I am still at it making videos and the channel is growing well.
Great video. I owned two DR650 before. Thinking about getting a DRZ400S or a DRZ400E.
Ive been on a 300l list for a while now, always quoted out the door price of 7.5-8k. I bought a used 2019 drz400s with low miles for 5.5k with many mods I'd have done myself. I did this after watching many videos of 300l not able to climb hills the drz has no issues with. BTW the laptop and program required to change fuel trims isnt needed on the drz, just a few screws to adjust fuel.
I climb all the hills, never an issue for me. Those people must not know how to ride. Also I got an ECU with advanced timing and 91 octane. With the 300L I dont have to change anything when I change elevation, which I do often. The 3 DRZ riders in my group, after riding both back to back, say the 300L is better. I also love 6th gear, fuel indicator, gear indicator, slipper clutch, 35" seat height, and the better ergonomics the 300L offers over the DRZ. The DRZ has better suspension and power but all the other things out weight it in my and the others opinion who ride them back to back.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad It doesnt have the power to go slow up hills, the 300l will die. Id rather have 2.5k and more power personally, all the other stuff you mentions doesnt do anything for me, sure it would be nice but at the cost of power and money I made the right choice for myself. Hopefully some day a company will make a reliable 400-500cc that is like the 300l.
@@keldonator it definitely does lol
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Are you very light? You have never had it die going up long steep hills?
@@keldonator I weight 240lbs, I go to the Pocono mountains and ride mine fine on hill climbs
**At the spec sheet on 3min the DRZ has 39HP. I tried to fix it but I cant not that it is up. Sorry for the inconvenience.
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Ive realized that for what i do and the terrain that i ride on is that the drz400 supermoto has been an amazing bike. It has offroad 17 inch tires that feel super stable because i ride in sugar sand. Only thing i could compare in sugar sand with the handling is the tw200.
@@jasieboii5565 I ride sugar sand all the time. So are you saying you took the super moto with the 17"wheels and put off-road tires on it?
@@MotorcyclesOffroad yeah, the wide tires help to keep the bike stable because ive realized on the 18 21's that the tire wants to come out from under you alot
@@jasieboii5565 yeah but we run 21"/18" because it is the best overall off-road. It allows us to ride over rocks and pop over logs.
Good comparison….👍😊
Beautiful intro....."he gave into the dark side"....epic!
Haha I'm glad you liked it. We like to do different intros just for fun sometimes.
This is honestly really helpful! thank you very much for your efforts buddy! Are either of these bikes good starter bikes for someone with a lot of bicycle experience?
Great content , where in jersey can’t u do motorcycle trail riding
I've had DRZ's for over 15 years now. My current iteration is a DRZ462cc , with ACT wide ratio gearbox and custom fuel injection with a long range tank. These modifications are only achievable because the bike is 20 years old and has had 20 years of aftermarket development. It remains to be seen how long Honda will support this new model, how long was the CRF250L around?
As far as achievements the drz should probably come fuel injected with a 6th gear out of the box. Extra range(and weight) is a preference but there are aftermarket tanks for the Honda. Tons of aftermarket for both...
If the drz came with the act ratio and fuel injection as standard, I would of bought one already..
I’ve got a 2018 Drz400sm and just did the Wyoming BdR on it with the 17” wheels. It was fine and did great even at 11,000’. Topped out at 90mph with full gear and I can’t find a better all around bike for the price
What are you running for tires?
@@sethfg TKC80 front, and Kenda big block rear. So knobbies.
Great vid man! I just got a drz but i have to say i honestly had a hard time choosing bwtween the 300l and the drz, wish i saw this vid earlier lol. I ended up going with the drz because im tall and wanted a heavier suspension, i came off an 03 xr250r and figured the 300l would be too close to that. I already miss the 6th gear tho lol. Really great video and nice honest comparison!
Thank you. I ride with 3 people who have drz's and they all agree, but the people on UA-cam who have only rode the DRZ give a lot of hate.
I dont understand people like that, no reason to hate , have to be open minded with bikes. Ill be honest once i pay off my drz i may grab a 300l to have also