Ultimate Guide to the Suzuki DRZ400: In-Depth Review and Analysis of this dual sport motorcycle
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- Опубліковано 9 лют 2025
- Looking for an ultimate guide to the Suzuki DRZ400? You've come to the right place! In this in-depth review and analysis, we've left no stone unturned in our quest to help you get the most out of this dual sport motorcycle. Some people will agree its one of the best dual sport motorcycles for an adventure motorcycle build.
First off, let's talk about the engine. The Suzuki DRZ400 is powered by a 398cc liquid-cooled engine that provides smooth and responsive acceleration. Whether you're hitting the trails or cruising the streets, this engine delivers the power you need to get up to speed quickly. Plus, its efficient design means you won't be guzzling gas as you ride.
But the Suzuki DRZ400 isn't just about power - it's also built to handle any terrain you encounter. With a durable steel frame and a fully adjustable suspension system, this bike can take a beating without missing a beat. Whether you're blasting through a muddy trail or cruising over potholes in the road, the DRZ400 will keep you comfortable and in control.
Of course, no motorcycle is complete without its fair share of features and extras. The Suzuki DRZ400 doesn't disappoint in this regard, offering a range of advanced features to make your ride more enjoyable and convenient. From a comfortable seat to an easy-to-read instrument panel, the DRZ400 is designed with the rider in mind.
And let's not forget about the design - the Suzuki DRZ400 is a true head-turner with its sleek lines and bold graphics. Its dual sport styling seamlessly blends off-road and street riding capabilities, making it a versatile option for riders who want the best of both worlds.
Overall, the Suzuki DRZ400 is a top-of-the-line dual sport motorcycle that delivers on all fronts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, our ultimate guide to this machine will help you unlock its full potential on the road or trail. Watch our in-depth review to learn more and start planning your next adventure today!
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Hello my name is Andrew, My family and I love power-sports. Just something about the feel of freedom and power you get from a bike or ATV. On this channel you will find content for the Honda 300L as well as our journey we take together in the world of power sports.
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Other Great Reviews: DRZ 400 Review: ua-cam.com/video/SLd1rLcqzZE/v-deo.html
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CRF300L rally Review: ua-cam.com/video/FEj-KXaRvSs/v-deo.html
Tenere 700 review: ua-cam.com/video/91R2W2Gt9Gk/v-deo.html
CRF300L review: ua-cam.com/video/21MM-_iJhbA/v-deo.html
CRF300L vs KLX300: ua-cam.com/video/Ie3Tp0d86T0/v-deo.html
CRF300L vs DRZ400: ua-cam.com/video/QeFyBMJkMqY/v-deo.html
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I bought a XR650R back in 2001.
I've ridden the hell out that bike.
Never had a problem with the bike.
I had a '79 XR185 as an 18 year old. My mates and I spend a few years clearing old logging roads through forest up a wee mountain. We had as much fun cleareing as riding... The 185 was a great wheely bike! I weighed about 180lbs back then. Louise was freaking hot on that Honda 160. Dang.
Had a drz400s for 5 years and 26k miles when i sold it. Bike was running perfect. I do myself and keep up with all the maintenance . Im 5'7 with a 30 inch inseam only had a 1" low seat and was ok. A few thing that must be done on the drz, gear lever as a sharp corner, file it down/round it up. Case saver are a must. Radiator guards, "free power mod" (5 years with oem battery and still no issues) the swingarm pivot bolt MUST be removed and grease as soon as you can, when i did mine my bike was only 1 year old, living in Vegas (very little rain) and i never use a pressure washer, yet, some corrosion had started.
In Australia we have the best of both worlds. The DRZ400E comes with full road compliance. Has indicators etc. They even bring out a Cape York edition for a few months each year that has bash plate, rad guards, bark busters etc. To get this past the design rules and gov regs Suzuki Australia had to add 4 types of restrictors and a gas tank bladder that reduces capacity from 10 litres to 7 litres. When you buy a new one, the dealer will generally remove the bladder and restrictors for you. The E in Australia comes with great off-road tires and is ready to hit the road and tracks. They do deals each year. Currently $10500 aud with 12 months registration and all taxes and transfer fees paid. This is for 2024.
ive had 3 of em bought new in nsw and none of them had this bladder your talking about
5’6” drz rider here, SM model with a set of 21” 18” wheels to swap out for trail riding. Growing up riding a KTM 125 I didn’t find the height to bother me too much. Yes it’s a heavy brute for a dirtbike, but it handles the single track fairly well if you ride quick enough.
If you’re short with experience on dirt bikes, don’t knock the old drz, it is more than capable, just know it’s a 1 foot down kinda bike for us short fellas.
I have the same set up. I think I will switch back to my 17" rims with dirt tires tho. I feel like skinny front tire does not have near enough traction now. plus, it is squirlier with that tiny contact patch. Your experience or thoughts?
@@machupikachu1085 if you’re riding dirt roads, the 17s are nice with aggressive tread. But for trails I love the Pirelli mt21 on my 21/18 setup. If dirt roads are your jam though, I don’t think the 21/18 is necessary
@@WheelieBad I ended up switching back to my 17's. I do almost exclusively desert riding where it's deep sand, hardpack or hill climbs. People get fatty tires for the desert so I just put my 17's back on. I run an mt21 up front and a dsport rear. It's way more stable on and off road. Give it a try if you are feeling kooky.
@@machupikachu1085 I ditched my drz for a crf. But that set up on sand makes perfect sense. To be honest I didn’t know there was an mt21 in a 17. I bet that’s a cool lookin setup!
I'm 9'4" This bike is puny, just like all of your other human crap.
I bought a 2020 DRz400 earlier this month... So far I'm loving the thing, its a fantastic dual-sport \ light ADV 👍
Have you tried the 16/39 gearing? With a pipe and rejet it really helps out the bike, especially on road.
Cheers!
I have a DR-Z 400 S and installed lowering links because I'm only 5 foot 7 and it made a world of difference. They are cheap and easy to install for all the shorter stature riders out there
What did you do for the front?
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I haven't changed the front at all actually, I left it as is and it handles fine. I guess you could drop the triple clamps down on the forks a bit, maybe that's worth a try. The seat is now 2 inches lower so I can almost flat foot both feet at the same time. Just readjust the headlight down and away you go!
@@dfxdarrell6734 Ahh ok I was just wondering because lowing the rear and having the front stock will make it steer slower.
@@MotorcyclesOffroadI have the same mod with the lower links, plus a lower seat because 5ft9 with 28inch legs. Used to ride it stock with standard seat, was a bit difficult but it now feels more planted at the rear and the steering is still PLENTY quick enough and doesn't feel heavy to steer and feels better on err 'high speed corners' and way better braking performance because you don't almost roll over the front anymore even when using both brakes, and I use the rear brake really quite hard which has occasionally made the rear slide left to right but is easily controlled and not scary at all when used in conjunction with the front brake and a little clutch/throttle when slowing to a stop (with road tyres). Don't try sliding the rear on a road with knobbies, baaaad things will happen as it feels sketchy and unpredictable AF..
i'm so glad your buddy finally put his kick stand up before he smoked everyone :) that was scaring the crap outta me!!!
It’s as relevant today as it was 20 years ago. I bought a new one last year and love it. If it had efi and six gears the price would be the thing everyone would bitch about. Love it for what it is and go flog it in the woods for the next 15 years.
No excuse for a carby and 5 gears anymore. The carb model HAS to disappear sooner or later because of emmissions and fuel consumption.
If it was that same price with 6 gears and FI it might be one of the best dual sports to buy value wise. I would definitely buy one for an adventure bike conversion.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Stay tuned for 2025😉
Great video, from start to finish. I've been riding since I was 13, (40 years). I have a DR650 which is great, but lacking in suspension and is fairly heavy. I still do single track with it, and it is a great workout! Just picked up a DRZ400s and after a few short rides, I can say that this bike is much more capable offroad. At 6'4" tall, I love the seat height, I can get my feet down pretty much anywhere.
The DRZ is the best DS/lightadv bike one can get. optional kickstarter is cool and you dont see that anymore. I know you can bump start the bikes but kick start is a nice option to be able to add to the bike. The suspension is decent and fully adjustable which is amazing. I never found the not having a 6th gear or fuel injection to be an issue. Frankly i prefer to have the bike carburated. I also own a DR650 and truly between the two bikes i dont need anything else in my garage.
Which you like better, dr650 or drz400 and why? Thanks
Pure dual sport, no adv in it
Picking up a brand new DRZ400s tomorrow and i'm stoked! This will be my first dual sport so I am sure I have plenty to learn. This was a really nice video with great info.
dude same boat! grabbed mine a few months ago. awesome thing is how much more capable the bike will be than you at first and you get to grow into it. i still am. and as you get better you can mod it with a 3x3/rejet, open up the header with a new full exhaust, throw a k&n washable air filter in there and youll wake youre bike up dude. then from there you can increase compression bore and stroke as youre looking for more oomph all for cheaper than getting a new bike!
How do you like it?
@@machupikachu1085 It's been great. I don't have as many miles on it as I thought I would but there is plenty of exploring to be done still in my area.
Did you get it?
Ideal, im 6'2 and just bought a drz 400 😆
Thanks for putting my mind at ease, great video.
You didn't mention the fact that the E model has higher compression and different cams as well. That, in addition to the FCR carb are the reasons for the power increase.
I got my '01 E model 7 years ago. It was mint and still had the original tires with a full Yoshimura exhaust. I rode the snot out of it almost every week until this January when I found a great deal on a KTM 500, but the DRZ will stay as a backup or loaner bike.
I’ve ridden the drz for thousands of miles in deep, hot florida sand. I haven’t even had to add a drop of coolant and never had an overheat. At 18000 miles, it will runs the same, as reliable as a pair of pliers, with only oil changes, filter cleaning, etc.
Cool! Glad you're has served you well.
any valve checks? at all?
@ and one 15k mile valve check. All is well.
I’m 6 foot two. I watched the whole thing.👍🏼
I’ve owned 3 drz400’s. Well one was a KLX400 but we all know that’s just a disguise. The best bike I ever owned. Great review. 👍🏻
Fantastic advice! I ride a CRF300L, and recently did a long off road group ride with 8 DRZ400 riders. I was impressed by the bike and the type of guy who buy them. However, I realize now that I am too short and old for a DRZ. Rode a KLR650 recently too, same deal, and it’s HEAVY! I’ll ride off into the sunset on the CRF, or maybe move over to a Versys 300x that I rode recently, wonderful (and very capable/comfortable) bike for milder off roading. My other bike is a 2019 CRF1000A.
Awesome to hear you getting out there, I love how many older guys are still out here riding. I have yet to ride a Versys 300 but I think its a cool little bike, its a super small twin right?
Also if you are an older rider I dont know if you have seen it but I made a video just for you, and the benefits of riding while older. ua-cam.com/video/1JGnXWK6lOs/v-deo.html
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Yes, it's a little twin! The Versys revs high , as you might have noticed in the Fortnine review of it. They poke fun at the "200 tiny explosions per second" sound of the bike. Some truth there, but I LOVED the way it handled on and off road and was stunned by how much more control and confidence I had on it, off road, compared to my CRF300L. The Versys is Smooth and silky. It feels like a tiny super-light version of my Africa Twin. Only drawback is the low clearance, but it did not get in my way on some reasonably sketchy backroads in central Illinois. Maybe not good for the Ophir Pass.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad and YES, I watched your video for older guys (I'm 70), and really enjoyed them. Saw a few of your videos when I first got back into riding, on the AT in 2020. (The wrong bike for a beginner, of sorts. Bought it sight unseen because of the price, and unavailability of a T7. I also didn't get to test ride the AT...big mistake)
Thanks for this video. On the strength of this video and several others I bought one and even made my own video! All the best from the UK.
The continent of Australia would agree that it is a great machine. I think their military still uses them.
Coppers still use them too.
It's the only bike the Australian army uses:)
Having had a bike with efi it's great.....after you get a new ecu to address the herky jerky throttle off idle, the terrible cold starting, and the flame outs. Other than that it's fantastic lol.
This.
Thats the bike I am leaning towards. I'm just over 6' 200lbs the new 300's the Honda and Kawasaki I will look at also. It looks like you were riding at Lost Trails the tunnel gave it away. Thanks for the video.
I'm just glad no DMZ Supermoto people will ever see any of this.
This is one of the (many) videos I watched before getting a DRZ 400. Thanks for the advice...
Best wishes from the UK.
F
Thank you for watching, hope it helped you in your journey.
Such sick bikes... I've got mine listed right now and am having second thoughts after watching tbis
Great stuff m8, I’m picking up a 06 drz400 tomorrow, I’m a little small for the bike, but I’m gonna keep it forever is my plan, should be a blast 💙💛🤍
I watched the whole video, so much excellent information. I'm strongly leaning towards a used DRZ 400 for my first bike
How tall are you?
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I'm 6'2"
@Shade_Tree_Mechanic well I think it is a great bike, overall you will have a lot of fun.
Ok. The stock carb on the S is great! I bought my drz new in flagstaff so I had been riding it at 6,500 to 9,000 feet of elevation. I recently moved to sea level and have had to do zero carb tuning. The CV carbs rock!
I just sold an E model with the pumper, and picked up a mint KLX400 version {same as S} with the CV carb and agree! Its so much smoother but with the typical Yoshi and airbox mods its got almost as much snap with only 1/4 more throttle turn than the pumper. I prefer it and was wondering how it was with elevation. How about temperature??
@@tieoneon1614 I haven’t ridden it in really cold temps, but it starts and runs well below freezing at 6,700 feet.
@@petrosspetrosgali thanks, lol dont think Id be riding in weather under 40 degrees...on purpose at least but I remember how the mnts were. A few miles could mean 20 degrees
Thank you for your review. I just bought a 2005 DRZ400S with 8500 miles on it for $2600. I hope I got a decent deal. I know nothing about this bike in that I ride a KLR650.
Great video for overall knowledge of this bike
You got a smoking deal. Where I live, a bike with that milage in good condition would be over $5k.
Great video! Actually, I think the SM may be the better buy. Better on the street, better components, shorter seat height, and you can still put off road tires on there and tear it up.
Cheers!
i have a drz 400 e 2009 model its a bit heavy but good fun. you done a great reveiw. i also have a KTM300 exc tpi. and a dr650 . your so right bikes bring happyness to people. safe riding mate
2:12 funilly enough the DRZ-E is the most powerfull out of the three, and is sold road legal in aus. Also, that pic u used for the DRZ400E is actually a drz 125. lol
My buddy has a KLR650, Its a handful in some tuff terrain. He just bought a DRZ, he thinks its as light as a feather. Just depends on what ur used to as to weather or not you have problems with the weight or not. I ride a T7, but I've been riding dirt a long time so its no big deal to me, all I'm saying is weight is relative, one mans big rock is another mans feather.
For the most part I agree. Thanks for the comment
I'm gonna be getting a drzs soon, throwing a lectron carb and ACT gears in it and calling it a day. Much higher 5th gear, and no more carby tuning or issues, not to mention its still a lot lighter than most other dual sport bikes at or larger engine size (so not the crf300l and klx300).
Also not to mention, this bike still has much better suspension than most other lower cost (sub 10k) dual sport bikes.
Consider the Smart carb II as well. I heard it may be better than the Lectron.
Cheers!
Had a 2007 drz 400 sm with knobby twinduro tires miss that bike !!! loved it
Sounds fun!
Good review on the DRZ400. Watched all the way to the end.
Thank you for the support kurt!
I wouldn't write off the SM model. Seems like a lot of people complain about the S model being too soft and they end up putting stiffer springs in. The spring rate on the SM model (for me) seems to handle some pretty chunky stuff. I'm glad I went with the SM model and got a set of 18/21 wheels. The 5 speed is really my only complaint making me want more.
Sm is as good as the E and yep its got better springs than the S
Depends on what you want it for.
haha i kept the 17s and threw some fat knobbies on there i call it my TW400 xD
@@Merc399 LOL I did the same thing. Ddubs 4 life!
This bike with a six speed gearbox, EFI ( damn emissions BS) a tuneable ECU like what Yamaha does, in a lighter weight aluminum frame, and forks like SSS would be the four stroke I'd buy. For now, I'm sticking with my two's.
So you’re looking for a tenere
@@petrosspetrosgali Not only no, but hell no. Tenere is way to much adventure bike.
@@coltonowens2742 🤣that’s what you’d get if you fuel inject a drz and put a magic 6th gear on it….basically….
Really enjoy your informative videos
Thank you so much
I love my drz400.
Hey, my names Andrew too my first bike is a xr250r and Im Now thinking of getting a drz400s. wanting it for comuting and trips up north to my buddy's property. Great video
Haha we are twins, that was also my first bike
Those trails are awesome. What area is that? Im in NC.
Andrew, Amazing video! My name also Andrew lol But I watched your video from beginning to end. I have an 07DRZ 400s and I'm envious of the riding trails you have available to ride near you 😅 Anyway, great job on the video, i went ahead and subscribed to your channel.
exhaust sounds good and i see you did the key relocate. nice dude
yeah the cables are short when you raise the bar but it is an easy fix.
this is a great video
the drz doesn't have 5 gears because it's old, suzuki used 6 speeds in bikes that needed 6 gears long before the drz came along. the drz has 5 gears because it has the torque to pull 5 gears and 6 would be slower. the notion that a 6th gear would be an extra gear is not typically the case theres only so much room for taller or lower ratios there comes a point where tooth size or shaft spacing becomes an issue. for example the drz250, crf250,crf300 all have 6 speeds but all have lower top speeds than the drz400.
efi will give you better cold start running and better fuel economy, there is no efi dual sport bikes available that compensate for altitude people are equating open loop or speed density efi to closed loop efi.
it's not fuel injected it doesn't need a fuel gauge it has reserve, a tank sender + wiring is just a waste of money and extra weight. it has a rev limiter it doesn't need a tacho.
E models don't have a fan they will only overheat if you aren't moving, they don't if you are.
E models have been in continuous production from 00-23 in street legal trim with a full subframe lights and indicators so you're specifically talking about north america where restrictive laws prevented the E model being street legal.
oil in frame is not rare or strange, and the dry sump motor is for extra performance and more oil capacity.
the drz is a far superior bike to the 300l especially for adventure riding where the 300 has some huge negatives like atrocious suspension, heavier weight and poor design and quality eg the air filter which needs a bunch of screws removed to get to a paper panel filter.
by contrast the drz suspension never needs to be changed to something else only sprung and valved for the riders weight and usage. and the only required modifications are for comfort or luggage. the cape york edition E model already comes new with protaper bars,grips, barkbusters, radiator guards, bashplate and exhaust baffle
And let’s not forget about the stock cv carby that does not really care about elevation.👍🏼
Bang on and probably on the list of best Japanese bikes
fuel injected vehicles create lag between the throttle and the rear wheel response not carburetors. often people will convert their bikes to carb to remove the lag (model has to be compatible) if youre experiencing a lag in the throttle response that comes from an incorrectly jetted carberetor or improperly set throttle cable. the lag is created by the electronic processing of the throttles position through the sensor btw
I have heard this thrown around before but I have not found any solid evidence on the subject. I have always felt FI is much more responsiveanecdotally.
EFI is 100% faster throttle response. Problem is a lot of offroad bikes with EFI have jerky throttles cuz of it. Coming from EFI dual sports I actually really like the CV carb on the S model cuz its so smooth with the power delivery at low rpm. It does seem to stall easier though not having fuel sprayed electronically and relying on vacuum.
Good review and worthy of a full length watch for sure. Riders are always going to be all over the place when weighing in on what’s best however longevity does have its points.
I’ve been riding an 06 DR 650 for over a dozen years and can pretty much check off all the points made on the DRZ as well. Have you done a side by side comparison of these two bikes? I looked hard at the DRZ way back when however leaned to the DR for an even more basic and simpler bike than the Z. Air cooled is always king of simple vs water in my opinion. The other huge plus for both bikes is aftermarket availability. It is so easy to economically customize these bikes to fit like a glove. With a few steeds in the barn I am always amazed how big a smile my DR brings me when I’m on her.
Keep up the good work and great success with your goals👍
Thank you, and no I have not had a DR650. Though I should be testing one in the near future. I am.selling my Tenere 700 to get my hands on a larger group of bikes for testing.
Cool, look forward to your impressions once you get some time on a DR. If your ever in the North Georgia area let me know. I’ll put you on my personal favorite for a test ride😉
dude i want to want a DR650 so bad lol. living in the city and being an engineer my last air cooled bike had me stressed out in traffic even though i love the simplicity. plus i ride hard. like very hard 24/7 with no off switch which leaves me burning up oil on air cooled bikes after a few hours of operation. then i start overthinking the build up and want to do a flush lol... plus i liek the fully adjustable showa inverted forks plus the 320mm front brake the drz comes with. and you can etch more hp out of the platform with engine mods than the 650
Nice! Im retiring my tured 86xl250r, and getting a DRZ400 beginning of next month. I've watched alot of reviews on different bikes etc last few weeks.
Only decision is, do i buy a used, moded, kitted out one for ½ thenprice of a new stock 2023 with warrenty off the show room floor! Lol
I got qouted 9200$ cuz Canada.. everything cost more than USD.. 🤣
(Pretty sure ima just go used, and found a good deal on a gem of a bike. Hopefully its still for sale when I can afford it in a couple weeks!😂)
Great vid! Enjoyed it. Id love to go ride that terrain!
Very informative. Thank you
No problem thanks for watching.
Had a 2007 drz 400s for about 5 years. Loved the bike and it was a blast with no problems. My only complaints are the high rpm's at 55mph or above and the rock hard seat. I'm getting old and would like to take longer trips. Getting ready to pull the trigger on a 2023 klr 650. I hope I'm making the right choice.
Man I will tell you, getting a DR650 for me was an amazing decision. The motorcycle is great, almost 100lbs less then the KLR.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad That's funny. I found a 2022 Dr 650 with 850 miles, seat concepts seat, and a jet kit. I just can't decide. I'll probably be on the road 60%.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I just sold my honda vlx 600 bobber. So just about anything will be more comfortable than that. But I will say it was fun.
@rticblue2843 on the road 60%, hmm that makes it hard. You are really going to miss the ability of the DRZ when it comes to offroad. So how big is your budget lol? I Honest think the KTM690 adventure would be the unicorn bike for you. It is the perfect blend of on and off, it has 6 gears for the highway, the new ones are counter balanced well, and it has nicer service intervals compared to other KTMs. Also the seat height is 35" and only weights 350lbs with its 3.6gallon tank full.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I hear that, that's a little out of my budget. Only looking to spend $6000 max. The KLR is on sale for $5800 new, and the Dr 650 is used for $5400. Thought about a ktm 390 adventure, or there's a used 2018 cf Moto Himalayan right next to me with under 1,000 miles for $4,500.
great video!
Great review. At 2:54 the weight is wrong on the yellow DR, it should read 288lbs not 388lbs.
Ahh damn, a typo
@@MotorcyclesOffroad Review the DR650 Bush Pig and all will be forgiven.
@@jamnuska haha yeah, I'm selling my tenere 700 and the DR650 is a bike I'm interested in picking up for review.
Good vid man !!!
Dude...great video and thanks for the information.
How would think this bike would be for just logging road exploring around the Northwest US?!
Love the DRZ, was very close to getting one over my WR250R.
I believe you also get the E model as street legal, is that correct?
@@MotorcyclesOffroad yep, that’s right!
And the reason I am installing a 39mm carb with bigger jets and hot cams on my DRZ400-S is because of emission standards in the U.S. is that correct? Oh yeah gears too had to be replaced from 15-44 to 14-48 for better wheelies. :-)
Good video
You might want to check weight figures at 2:53 . 388lbs is approx 176kg
FYI. You used the DRz125 for you pic of the E. Different engine and notice the drum rear brake? Just FYI. But with mods, this bike can be ridden by all hieghts. I know a 5foot tall girl who rides one. Im 5'8" tall. 30 inch inseam and have put over 50,000 miles on mine. Change gears and 80 mph is the sweet spot on this bike. 15/41 gears are best for highway use. Smooth as butter at 80 mph. Swap gears and single track with the best of them. But nailed the carb issues. I have a FCR 39mm in mine, runs like crap at 9200 feet, when its set for 0 to 4000 feet. Fuel injection is great. So far my bike finally left me in the woods ay just over 52,000 miles the stator went out in me....noticed at snow line at 4200 feet and miles from anywhere. Best bike i have ever owned in my 35 years of riding.
I watched till the end
Well thank you for your support.
3:27 3x3 mod also has to be done to the E model, not just the S. no real point doing it on the S either unless u swap the carb out.
What???? So just ignore the fact that you’re putting more air into the engine and not opening up its escape path?(exhaust) why would you need to change the carb? There’s no need
3x3, exhaust and rejet the stock carb works like a charm.
One other huge bonus with the drz - all made in Japan. The quality of other bikes made in India, thailand etc just don't compare.
Great video. I just bought an XR150L for some light trail riding but I think the DRZ400 will be my next upgrade. Where were you riding in the video? Looks like Florida or Georgia. I am near Ocala National Forest and can't wait to get out there.
They also come with adjustable suspension Worth noting and checking out before swapping entirely :)
Solid point! thank you.
Good stuff! Thanks Brother.
Thank you for watching.
Awesome review! I am a beginner rider and I have a 06 YZ 125 thinking of upgrading to it drz next summer, i’m in the New Jersey area I’m wondering where do you usually go riding? I noticed you went to lost trails awesome spot to ride!
I came from a 1986 Yamaha XT 350. My new goddamn DR-Z is a Tesla compared the that
What I really don't get is why can't Suzuki just add EFI to the DRZ400 and leave the rest the same? That is what Kawasaki did in 2018 with the KLX250. Switched from Carb to EFI. One of the biggest downsides for me with the DRZ-400 is that it is still carbed, and if I don't ride it at least every couple of weeks, the carb is gonna get gunked up. Not my idea of fun! This is one of the big reasons I prefer my CRF300L over any of the DRZs I have owned in the past. For me, the reliability of the CRF300L is way above and beyond the DRZ for the average person. I don't want to need to worry about taking apart my carb every few months if I don't ride for some reason. Also, as someone who owns multiple bikes, I may go for a while without riding any particular one! I just can not get over the carb... it is a deal breaker for me, and is the reason I will choose an EFI bike like the CRF300L every time. Great video and review as always.
I owned an XR250L with a CV carb too for 5 years that saw storage every winter. Ran Stabil in the gas tank a few rides prior to storage during late fall then put to bed with a full tank of treated gas. Started up no problems every time the following Spring. Sitting unused for a month or two is no big deal. Just be sure to keep a full tank to avoid condensation, and use the fuel petcock to run the motor dry before doing so.
Just switch off the petcock and idle it to run out of fuel before parking it. No more gunk.
donno if youll get to it. But, 5'9 experienced street rider trying to get into enduros, the drz is my prime choice but im shooooort
what would you pick on that rough description
I've heard you mention a Suzuki DR 350 in other videos. I'm interested in that model of course for the 6 speeds and lighter weight compared to a DRZ. It looks like the perfect motorcycle for my area. But I question it's power on the highways. Would love to hear your take on the DR 350. I don't know anyone who's ever had one and I personally have never even seen one. I'm very curious about that model as it looks like it could be the Unicorn bike for my needs. Not that much about them on UA-cam.
Where are you riding?
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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
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
Something's sure wrong when a water cooled bike overheats unless it's a T955 in stopped traffic at over 89 degrees F...(Cooks weenies/kills crank sensors). Overheating shouldn't ever happen on a 400 dual sport regardless of ambient temp.
Nice. Where is the tunnel?
Nice review and great footage out on the trail! I really want to get a DRZ!
Idk if youve been told but on screen at 2 min 55 sec into the video you have the E models weight at 388lbs
Yeah it was kinda like a typo.
Here in BC Canada, 249-400cc /401-750 cc are insurance fee tier thresholds for public roads (horsepower thresholds apply too. DRZ is well below). Thus the attraction of 400cc bikes. 'er bike... There's only one.
Where's a good place to buy storage bags and such for a DRZ?
Bike cover or saddlebags?
Im 5'7" tall and I really want a DRZ400S, what can I do to make it manageable for my height?
There are lowering links, a shorter seat, or just learn to trust one foot down. There is a girl on here on UA-cam that is around 5'5" who does hard enduro with bikes that are taller. It's pretty wild.
Cheers!
im 5'6 do yall think i could comfortably ride this bike?
You can ride anything, if your more on the new side tho you will find it intimidating and I would first start on an XT250.
what's a fair price for a 2002 drz400E ?
Depending on the work done to it, how clean it is, and your area. But I would say 3000-4500, a 2002 should run as good as a 2024.
Looking at a clean 2004 drz400s 20k miles with a lot of maintenance records , I got him down to 2800$ good deal! One area
@@MotorcyclesOffroadlooking at a 2004 drz400s 20k loads of maintence done , is 2800$ a good deal ? From the pnw
Should i be afraid og getting a drz400sm 2006 with 18k miles and has a full service history?
Had a 04 in AZ. Bought it with 24000 mi. Sold it with 29500 mi when I moved to Alaska. No issues at all. Have a 2022 now.
I got a 2003 drz 400s I swear I get up to 70 mpg. My speedometer reads faster than I'm going. I have 28000ish miles on odometer but it's more like 35 to 40000 because say a 25 mile trip it only puts on around 17 to 19 miles. O and the cable broke and I don't get one and fix it for 3 years.
It is a great trail bike especially for a little bigger guy it has great torque way more than a 250 an 300 cc bikes and it's easy to handle power not like motocross racing bikes I think it's the perfect amount of power for trail riding think it's only down fall is transmission gear ratios first to me is a little bit high for technical off-road stuff and fifth is a little bit low for highway speeds above 55 at 65 it starts getting a little bit buzzy changing sprocket gearing just makes it worse one way or the other a wider ratio transmission much better or even a 6 speed trans it used to be very affordable bike but last couple of years the price has increased it's still a great bike just the way it is an if Suzuki changes any about it it will mean it would then have to meet new EPA regulations which means fuel injection and the price will go up a lot more
I dont see a pinned comment with the Amazon link. Thanks! Update: just found the link in the description :)
Ok thanks, I forgot to set it pinned
at the 2:54 mark, 130 kg = 286 lbs. Not 388 lbs
Yeah I noticed it was a typo, I meant to put a different number.
4:11 to 4:36 who could've predicted.
umm? Context please? I dont know what point you are making here.
Great woods bike .. that's why it didn't compete with the yz400f... maybe it started as motorcross motor then they were like nope
My 2003 drz 400s gets up to 70 mpg.
5'9" here, height will not matter. You figure it out.
This is true
The image of the drz 400 E that you put up wasn't correct 😊 you showed an air cooled 125
I know it wasn't the right PNG, good eye someone else already mentioned that. I didn't notice lol I was looking at a tiny little image when editing 😅
What is the 3x3!?
3x3 mod is when you add jets, and exhaust, and cut a 3inch by 3inch hole in the top of the air box. It completely wakes up the bike, it's a significant difference in power. Also one of the most common mods on the DRZ400
Thanks I don’t think I’m sold
I'm glad no one has purchased you yet.
Cheers!
My 2009 DRZ 400 got so hot that the piston melted before the engine went boom. The guy rebuilding it thinks the thermostat failed.
The thing was tuned like a crack head. Beater of a Supermoto. Missing or sheared half the rear break roter bults.
Fuck me i, had this death machine on the freeway doing 90😂 my guardian angel been working overtime.
Is it finished yet? If not, I'd recommend looking into the e cams and the ACT gearing.
Cheers!
LOVE IT
Thanks!
The trans is a MX close ratio 5 speed {high 1st, close 2-5} THATS the problem. If i had a wide ratio 5 speed it would be less annoying. 14/47 offroad is junk trying to dual sport. 15/44 has 1st gear too tall for offroad. And most of the overheating issues is cuz they got an air bubble in the coolant, and need to just burp it out. Several vids on here how to.
The DRZ 400 was a great bike in its day, but it's long in tooth. Sure, if you can get one dirt cheap and in decent condition then go for it. But in Europe a 20 years old DRZ sells for half the price of a new KTM 690 Enduro R. The used bike market is insanely expensive. I'd rather spend my money on a new KTM, or its Husqvarna 701 sibling. Double the power and only 5-6 lbs heavier. I had a 2003 DRZ 400S and it was a good bike, but I think it doesn't make much sense these days, unless the price is your biggest factor.
Tho I agree with you for the most part I do want to add the 690s and 701s weight a bit more then "5-6" lbs. The DRZ weight if full of fuel the KTM lines are dry weight.
20 year old DRZ is half as much as a 690 in Europe?
Come on man, that’s bull crap. Or do you mean a new DRZ which hasn’t changed for 20 years costs 50% of a new 690? In Australia A DRZ400E (remember we get the E) is now more than half the cost of a new 690 but I’ll take the DRZ at nearly half the price all day long. We all know that even with a 690 the cost is actually quite a lot more once re spring, big tank, rack, radiator guards, bash plate, bark busters, etc are all done not to mention proper tires. Same applies to all bikes but I would argue that at the moment the DRZ 400E is still the best value, true enduro machine available in Australia. The 400S would also take this spot easily. What’s it’s competition? A CRF300 or KLR300? Not even close, a WR450? They are pushing $19k AUD now. COVID some how made a DRZ400E with enduro pack mysteriously increase in cost from $8300 AUD to $11890 AUD. They are both bikes designed for Asian City streets. They are road bikes made to handle pot holes and curbs. Yeah I’d love a 690. Nearly bought a new one twice. Definitely a better bike than the Dizza but the DRZ is a genuine, no bullshit dirt bike. It is a dirt bike that some people choose to travel very long distances on. For me it is a 400k remote bush track one day and return the next day bike at half the cost of a 690.
Only constructive criticism is - video should have gone longer.🏁
Haha well thank you, and thanks for watching that long.
Man 16 years without riding his new bike. That sounds absurd! I know a lot of people do that though. 😬 Sad honestly.
At least get a picture of a DRZ 400e.
That is the one in my pole barn currently.