Owned mine for 8 years, awesome bike. Started with mine almost stock, it’s now one of the most modified bikes around, full powder coating, all the power mods, suspension, brakes, clutch, visual stuff, Thats what makes this go from a great bike to an amazing bike. It’s like an old Japanese car it gets better with age and with modifications and customisation. There are never two the same.
@@omarfromthe559 suspension for sure, then remove the rubber mounts from the bar clamps, after that fcr39 carb with a K&N filter and 3x3 airbox with an exhaust That’s the essentials. Next decide if you want do big bore and cams or not. you could also upgrade the brakes to braided lines and bigger front brake system like a moto master one. Make sure to locktight the bolts in the stator before 10k miles and also lock tight the front sprocket
Crazy how everyone says the Drz is dated, but in 22 years no one has made a worthy competitor 😂. So much ignorance and misinformation surrounding this bike that people regurgitate from forum to forum. The fact is that it is the greatest bike of its kind ever made, nothing has even come close, and there will never be anything like it ever again.
maybe because most sumos are big ones and cost alot, if someone like ktm decides to make 390 sm for price of duke it would probably be better seller or similar than drz
@@94SexyStang not to mention "fuel injection" on bikes (in most cases) is basically an electronic carburetor. There aren't really any bikes out there with "Direct fuel injection" like modern day cars and trucks. The fuel delivery is an electronic injector sure, but it injects fuel into an air stream, not directly into the combustion chamber amounting to basically a fancy electronic carburetor.
Old but gold. Rode one on my first MC trip to the Tail of the Dragon and it was great. It’s such a pure riding experience and feels like it weighs nothing.
OC: 80%! I feel like supermoto is starting to make a comeback. It might not reach its early 2000s glory, but people are always showing interest in my SMs. As a big guy, I'm quite thankful that the DRZ SM was my first bike; couldn't have had a better one.
Hey when you say big guy how big iam about to turn 18 and would like to get one iam 6’4 and 150 pounds you think I’ll fit and will t look like a gorilla doing the dirty to a football
@@Aggressiveopinions don't know about OP but I'm 6'4 and 18 y.o myself and I own a Supermoto, Husqvarna 610 te converted to sumo and Supermotos are some of the best bikes out there for tall people given the seat height, so no, you won't look like a gorilla on one
The rectangular stock headlight gives it that 80's retro aesthetic! The seat feels a LOT better if you swap the stock cover out for an EnjoyMfg grippy ribbed cover (need a pneumatic staple gun to do proper e.g. harbor freight). So many aftermarket parts available for it indeed make it a relatively cheap and easy platform for a noob mechanic like myself to wrench on.
I've put 1500 miles on my 22. Wish it had a 6 speed. Mirrors may be ugly, but they have the best visibility out of any bike I've ridden. This and the grom are my favorite bikes to be a hooligan on.
Switch the back sprocket to a 39 tooth and you’ll get your sixth gear. You will lose take off power but gain top end. I can cruise between 70-80mph without running the rpm’s up like it’s going to explode😂 My top speed was 96mph with the wind behind me. Good luck
I own a 2020 DRZ400SM and the only performance mods i did to mine were install a Leo Vince X3 slip-on exhaust and a K&N air filter. I noticed quite a bit of difference in torque, horsepower, and throttle response. It was enough that I decided not to do the 3x3 mod or jetting kit. It easily does highway speeds.
@@fuqqbiden1616 That’s low mileage for a 2015. On the other hand, it’s almost 10 years old. Do you know what condition the bike is in? Has it ever been wrecked? Has it been modified? I would probably offer about $4800 depending on if it’s in good condition.
@@l-mac5105 I really appreciate the feed back, its got a fmf slip on, other then that its stock. I'm taking a look at it this weekend. I was thinking the same offering around 4800/49, depending on condition of course.
@@l-mac5105 Just picked it up, got him down to 4900. Made sure it was cold and it started nice/sounds nice. Its got a graphics kit and a fmf pipe other then that its all stock. Not bad for a first bike, I like the torque too lol.
I have to admit the reason I am looking for a new Drz/Xr650 is because they haven't changed. The way prices have gone and with the expense of things today I am happy to find something in this price range that is modern enough yet not so outdated I would look the other way. Simple reliable and still lots of fun. I am def still a go with these. Thanks for the review.
The bike has not changed in forever so they don’t have to comply with modern emission regulations, if they gave it a proper upgrade it would have to comply and that would ruin the bike.
This is why I love and buy Suzuki. Fun to ride. Easy to work on. Lot of fun and very little to be concerned about. Bullet proof. And the price is always right.
Seems like a fun around the city bike. Can slap dirt tire on it or even easily swap wheels and take it on gnarly off road as well. Very versatile! Also only 322 pounds. Very light compared to many motorcycles.
I bought a 2009 4 years ago (in 2018). First motorcycle I’ve ever owned and I haven’t had to do anything to it other than change the battery. That’s why it’s popular. I’m no mechanic, and don’t feel like paying for one. I can hop on it after a full winter without starting it and take it for a ride. It’s a 90s toyota on 2 wheels.
The digital dash RTC draws a ridiculous amount of current in standby. So don’t neglect to charge the battery if your off season extends beyond 60 days. Or just disconnect it if you can figure out the insane programming procedures to set the clock again in the spring 😉
I have a 2007 that I bought new and still love the bike. I mainly used for a mountain trail bike sometime on hyway but not alot. The most important upgrade is the exhaust system and tune after. It really improves torque overall throttle response. There are various other mods the help for comfort and power but exhaust upgrade is a must.....
if your supermoto/dual sport steering wiggles on the highway you need to move forward on the seat, up onto the fuel tank. you also need to lean forward into the wind more. The steering wiggles because wind resistance unloads the front wheel, and Chase here demonstrates what a large fella riding too far back on the seat can do to mess up the dynamics as well.
There’s 1 reason to buy this bike. Learning wheelies. Surprised we didn’t see any chase on 1 wheel in this video! I’ve got about 2500 miles on mine now. -Chase is right, the seat is too thin. Seat concepts makes an aftermarket seat that is perfect. -The stock exhaust is pretty quiet, but there’s many nice sounding aftermarket options. -It’s the first bike that I’m my own mechanic for, and it’s very easy to learn to work on. The only unfixable con is the power on the highway. Yes the bike can go 70-80mph pretty easily but it’s shakey and the wind is a pain in the ass. I still find myself gps’ing with “avoid highways” turned on. -cruises over potholes and bumps in the road like they don’t even exist. -I’m 5’11” and it’s the perfect height for me, but my buddy who’s 5’9 thinks it’s too tall. All in all I absolutely love my 2021 DRZ400sm. Would recommend it to city riders and people who aren’t as mechanically inclined. If you’re a talented mechanic and can deal with lots of maintenance I would recommend one of the lighter, faster, more modern sumos like a Honda crf450 or a husqvarna 701. I’d especially recommend the 701 if you often find yourself on the highway.
@@chickysausages maybe his legs are a lil shorter than yours lol Yes I agree rider preference. I went with one of the loudest exhausts available. Although it would be fine with any ordinary exhaust mod. Stock is very quiet imo. As chase pointed out, the pops and bangs are even noticeable while stock. I also opened up my air box and rejetted it. That plus the exhaust made a decently noticeable torque difference. Needs a better carb imo
Bought a 2022 DR-Z400SM this spring and I am loving it! The Seat Concepts Commuter seat is worlds better than stock. I had a 1982 Yamaha XT - 550 back in the day and there is no comparison. at 60 years old i am back in the wind again and loving it!
Impressive adjustable stock suspension, superior even to the S and E models. Essentially an RMZ250’s lazy overweight but classy uncle. Unfortunately the lack of ABS has killed it in Australasia.
This just might become my first bike. Thanks for all the local runs! I will definitely give Mountain Motorsports a heads up that your review is what pushed me over the edge. HWY 9 will be a whole lot more fun on this bad boy!
get one bro. Best first bike ever. You can race it, jump it, drop it and it doesn't care. My buddy has had the same Dr. Z since college. 12 years and 45k miles. I've finally convinced myself to get one.
I just got my first Supermoto at 36, and I haven't had so much fun riding in so long as I have on my DRZ. It's amazing how much fun it is to have no electronics or extra BS between me and the bike.
The ole drz400 is a timeless classic I have. 2003 Kawasaki klx400 and if you know then you know it’s actually a drz400s with green plastics. It’s been an amazing bike to start off for my first bike I do wish I had street tires thou
I want one of these so bad, I think they did the right thing by not changing anything. There is nothing that needs to change and having everything stay the same makes for a huge advantage when you need to find used parts and for aftermarket.
I always wanted one of these just to play around on. I used to race an LTZ400 quad years ago offroad and mx. The engine isn't drastically different between the two either.
I'm 5.5 and i was practicing on unliscenced dual sport Chinese 150 cc for 2 years around the block and side roads. At the beginning the seat height was intimidating for me but I got used to it. At that time I decided to go upgrade and there was no choice for me except the drz or no ride. Man the first time I hopped on it on dealership, it was way higher than the previous bike and I barely touch the ground tippy toeing yet I could lean it on one leg. I always trust of my ability to ride it especially encouraged by short guys, kids, and one petite lady biker on youtube rides adventure bikes or basically they are the same process for all bikes once you learn it becomes nature. Beside that I was afraid that the cluster will confuse me with it missing gear positions and fuel capacity. I took the shot, and it was the right one definitely. It has been a week since I got my new 2024 drz. Seat hight cause me no problem, gears been peace of a cake it ain't take me one day to feel it, fuel capacity solved by resetting one of trips each time I refill. Oh boy this bike is fantasy, engine even though it's 400 yet it pulls heavy bro, pops and bangs on first ride. I agree on the highway part, it won't let you down but still scary after some high speed for long distance. However, I'm enjoying every second on this bike it's just a nostalgic toy takes you to childhood.
loved my SM, after 6 years i placed a 440cc bigbore kit on it, which destroyed the engine. decided to buy a brand new one and keep the old one for parts. i absolutely love these things, even maintaining it myself is a breeze.
I don't have one of these yet, but I do plan on getting one within the next few months. I currently have two KLR 650s, so I'm used to riding bikes with carbs, 5 gears, and that haven't changed style that much since it was created in '87 or so. I love technology, but I'm also old school in a lot of way, and especially if something isn't broke, then don't fix it. EFI *might* be nice to have, but I actually like to do my own wrenching, so I love this bike just the way it is. Now I can't wait to actually ride one and get one for myself! Great video.
@@rus1844 The tires it comes with stock are more street oriented. I run a set of shinkos on mine and have no trouble at all with street and dirt trails.
I can come to a full stop on my 790 adv R without putting my feet down for a number of seconds. I think it's just a matter of the upright bikes and neutral seating position. Also the head angle/trail on these bikes lends to stability.
And then we'll all be complaining about how expensive it is when a couple extra thousand on the pricetag are suddenly thrown on with all those upgrades lol.
I really wanted a 2019 DRZ400SM as that year had such sexy colours imo. I opted against it as I have an ungodly strong anti carb bias. That and I wanted something with more poke anyway. Loving my Husky 701 SM.
@@jimperry4420 no, the whole muffler is still there, I didn't change/improve exhaust flow. It's just a screen that changed the sound. I have noticed zero fueling issues.
OC: i think supermotos will always be cool i just wish Australia had supermotos. Im a wr450f rider and i hate the offroad tyres on the road but comversion is expensive. If only there was supermotos at the dealership cause id trade up today.
Just picked up a 2005 supermoto for $2500 with full yoshimura exhaust. I’m mainly a dirtbike rider but recently got an MT09 to try out street. Amazing bike but I wanted something more in touch with it’s dirt side. Seems like a simple, fun bike!
Your lucky I live in Washington state and there are people asking $4,200-$6,000 for high mileage drz like 12,000 -28,000 miles and $6,000 for low mile ones it's crazy
love this bike. its perfect for twisties like in upstate new york and its perfect for city/suburban traffic cause it sits u high up, light weight and skinny. u can just zoom on by. problem comes with if ur trying to pull long highway speeds. ur prob topping 95 at most
@@machupikachu1085 I have 15/38. perfect for commuting. cause u can wide open throttle without the engine screaming. but ur acceleration isn't the best so strong wind or a steep hill has u fighting to keep ur speed consistent
not only the drz in particular, but i'm somehow having a hard time finding info on this - can you take a passenger on something like this? does it have pegs for a passenger?
So is the extra $1000 worth it to get the SM suspension stuff on the bike or can ya do it from parts or other sources? I'm no expert & just am trying to figure it all out? Better suspension mean better control & a safer ride so anyone who knows please feel free to add your two cents worth? I like the DRZ & the carbs are not a problem to me. peace
still loving my 05 drz sm still running strong, only on the second rear subframe! hate not having rpms, but than again my dash doesn't even work anymore lmao i do not take my drz on the highway here in NOVA fuckers on rt66 are crazy!
The key 🔑 could be 100 years old if it works. You can put polisport halo yellow headlight. There a brand that makes nice restyle kit for the Drz. And you can put some cool aftermarket pipes on that
Got an 07 sm and it's the best bike I've ever had... There is a reason Suzuki hasn't changed it... Imo it just needs a restyle get rid of the ugly headlight
I have a 1997 300 that was made street legal, same motor but the flywheel is lighter and the cdi allows for higher redline so after riding both I'd say I prefer the older version with sm wheels lol. That being said the new sm is amazing and very flickable, a pipe and a tune will allow for 93mph before redline and it gets there very quick
Hey Henry. Get the the DRZsm. You will outgrow the KLX, but the 'Zuki has almost twice the horsepower, torque and better suspension. The Dr.Z has enough juice to actually ride two up, or get on the freeway. The KLX, not so much.
@@machupikachu1085 the drz is a blast and definitely more practical but both feel equally stressed on the freeway and the klx is more flickable. Klx is more fun in my opinion because I don't care much about power and the klx makes plenty for me at least. If you want power tho definitely get the drz
On the street?.. yea a little wimpy but using it offroad on trails it has more than enough low end. Also wheelies over obstacles easily. I have 21k miles on mine.
I’ve had a 600 gsxr before and this one isn’t as fast on the top end, but the torque is probably better tbh. That’s what I got it for. Wheelies and off-road. Plus putting around town
Would this be a good first bike because I’m gonna register for the basic rider course and I’ve never ridden a motorcycle the only time I’ve ridden a bicycle was when I was nine but with training wheels and I’ve been considering getting a Drz as my first ever motorcycle because of it being lightweight and easy to manure since I’m only 6’0 and 171 lbs
Smart idea taking the MSF course. It could literally save your life. Also the Dr.Z is a great first bike. All first bikes get dropped, but you can drop these things. They don't care.
I think I'd just get a windshield put on and it would be a lot better on the freeway. I'm thinking of getting this over the 300L just because the more power it has keeping up with traffic. important if your going to be in it a lot! and a lot of fun to just cruize the ol backroads.
Damn Chase the suspension sags so much with your weight but it still seemed too stiff for my skinny body when I had a DRZ 2 years ago. I'm worried the KTM 690 (my next bike) would be even stiffer since it didn't sag so much with you on it.
Owned mine for 8 years, awesome bike.
Started with mine almost stock, it’s now one of the most modified bikes around, full powder coating, all the power mods, suspension, brakes, clutch, visual stuff, Thats what makes this go from a great bike to an amazing bike.
It’s like an old Japanese car it gets better with age and with modifications and customisation. There are never two the same.
Hey I just got mine a couple months ago. What mods would you recommend for me, currently stock.
@@omarfromthe559 suspension for sure, then remove the rubber mounts from the bar clamps, after that fcr39 carb with a K&N filter and 3x3 airbox with an exhaust That’s the essentials.
Next decide if you want do big bore and cams or not.
you could also upgrade the brakes to braided lines and bigger front brake system like a moto master one.
Make sure to locktight the bolts in the stator before 10k miles and also lock tight the front sprocket
@@calumkz thank you! I'll look into this
I have my 2005 drz modded as well. Athena big bore kit and fcr mx carb with hot cams and yoshi exhaust. It's a beast and a fun reliable bike.
Thinking about getting a 2015 drz 400sm with 7k miles for $5200obo, is that a decent deal?
Crazy how everyone says the Drz is dated, but in 22 years no one has made a worthy competitor 😂. So much ignorance and misinformation surrounding this bike that people regurgitate from forum to forum. The fact is that it is the greatest bike of its kind ever made, nothing has even come close, and there will never be anything like it ever again.
maybe because most sumos are big ones and cost alot, if someone like ktm decides to make 390 sm for price of duke it would probably be better seller or similar than drz
I personally HATE fuel injection and ABS on bikes!!! I want total control, period.
@@94SexyStang not to mention "fuel injection" on bikes (in most cases) is basically an electronic carburetor. There aren't really any bikes out there with "Direct fuel injection" like modern day cars and trucks. The fuel delivery is an electronic injector sure, but it injects fuel into an air stream, not directly into the combustion chamber amounting to basically a fancy electronic carburetor.
@@GP-lk7so lots of cars use port injection too
Ugh a suzuki drz fan boy.....i feel like i am in a weird cult of lazy manufacturers apologists ugjdhdjeisbskshehhejdkslnwys
Old but gold. Rode one on my first MC trip to the Tail of the Dragon and it was great. It’s such a pure riding experience and feels like it weighs nothing.
Until you drop it or sink it in mud...
OC: 80%! I feel like supermoto is starting to make a comeback. It might not reach its early 2000s glory, but people are always showing interest in my SMs. As a big guy, I'm quite thankful that the DRZ SM was my first bike; couldn't have had a better one.
I graduated hS 2004 but wasn’t into bikes yet, what made them popular back then? Any 2000’s SM content I should watch?
@@Fee.1 I would look up the AMA Supermoto Championship races from 2003-2009 or Summer X Games Moto X SuperMoto races from 2004-2009.
They never died!, at least not in Europe, Supermotos are bigger than ever in EU
Hey when you say big guy how big iam about to turn 18 and would like to get one iam 6’4 and 150 pounds you think I’ll fit and will t look like a gorilla doing the dirty to a football
@@Aggressiveopinions don't know about OP but I'm 6'4 and 18 y.o myself and I own a Supermoto, Husqvarna 610 te converted to sumo and Supermotos are some of the best bikes out there for tall people given the seat height, so no, you won't look like a gorilla on one
The rectangular stock headlight gives it that 80's retro aesthetic!
The seat feels a LOT better if you swap the stock cover out for an EnjoyMfg grippy ribbed cover (need a pneumatic staple gun to do proper e.g. harbor freight).
So many aftermarket parts available for it indeed make it a relatively cheap and easy platform for a noob mechanic like myself to wrench on.
That is because that light is literally from the 80's.
I've put 1500 miles on my 22.
Wish it had a 6 speed.
Mirrors may be ugly, but they have the best visibility out of any bike I've ridden.
This and the grom are my favorite bikes to be a hooligan on.
Switch the back sprocket to a 39 tooth and you’ll get your sixth gear. You will lose take off power but gain top end. I can cruise between 70-80mph without running the rpm’s up like it’s going to explode😂
My top speed was 96mph with the wind behind me. Good luck
Have the 2007. The looks are still great. Always wanting to buy something more modern, but nothing compares. Still a winning formula.
Mirrors aren't meant to be aesthetic but rather functional. The drz has some of the best mirrors hands down. You can see everything and I love them.
Bar ends are way better unless you like looking at your shoulders and arms.
I own a 2020 DRZ400SM and the only performance mods i did to mine were install a Leo Vince X3 slip-on exhaust and a K&N air filter. I noticed quite a bit of difference in torque, horsepower, and throttle response. It was enough that I decided not to do the 3x3 mod or jetting kit. It easily does highway speeds.
Thinking about getting a 2015 drz 400sm with 7k miles for $5200obo, is that a decent deal?
@@fuqqbiden1616 That’s low mileage for a 2015. On the other hand, it’s almost 10 years old. Do you know what condition the bike is in? Has it ever been wrecked? Has it been modified? I would probably offer about $4800 depending on if it’s in good condition.
@@l-mac5105 I really appreciate the feed back, its got a fmf slip on, other then that its stock. I'm taking a look at it this weekend. I was thinking the same offering around 4800/49, depending on condition of course.
@@fuqqbiden1616 You’re welcome. Let me know how it goes. I wish you well!
@@l-mac5105 Just picked it up, got him down to 4900. Made sure it was cold and it started nice/sounds nice. Its got a graphics kit and a fmf pipe other then that its all stock. Not bad for a first bike, I like the torque too lol.
I have to admit the reason I am looking for a new Drz/Xr650 is because they haven't changed. The way prices have gone and with the expense of things today I am happy to find something in this price range that is modern enough yet not so outdated I would look the other way. Simple reliable and still lots of fun. I am def still a go with these. Thanks for the review.
The bike has not changed in forever so they don’t have to comply with modern emission regulations, if they gave it a proper upgrade it would have to comply and that would ruin the bike.
And then the price just goes up and everyone goes back to bitching.
Idk, FI might be worth it.
@@gabbagabbaray naw
Suzuki official bbk???? Suzuki official fi? of course sold separately
@Невада большевик I wish the used drzs were cheap… sm’s barely go below 1000 off msrp of a new one
I’ve owned my 2000 drz400s for about 3 years now and I love that bike. It’s had a JD jetting kit done, aftermarket DG exhaust. Super fun to ride
OC: I think it will be a timeless classic. I’m a tech enthusiast but I like my bikes pretty basic for a multitude of reasons.
This is why I love and buy Suzuki. Fun to ride. Easy to work on. Lot of fun and very little to be concerned about. Bullet proof. And the price is always right.
Seems like a fun around the city bike. Can slap dirt tire on it or even easily swap wheels and take it on gnarly off road as well. Very versatile! Also only 322 pounds. Very light compared to many motorcycles.
I bought a 2009 4 years ago (in 2018). First motorcycle I’ve ever owned and I haven’t had to do anything to it other than change the battery. That’s why it’s popular. I’m no mechanic, and don’t feel like paying for one. I can hop on it after a full winter without starting it and take it for a ride. It’s a 90s toyota on 2 wheels.
That's great to hear! I'd recommend making sure the carb is empty before putting it away tho. Carbs hate ethanol.
The digital dash RTC draws a ridiculous amount of current in standby. So don’t neglect to charge the battery if your off season extends beyond 60 days. Or just disconnect it if you can figure out the insane programming procedures to set the clock again in the spring 😉
DRZ riders don’t care what’s “cool”. They ride their own rides. That’s ok in my book.
OC: The DRZ never stopped being cool
I have a 2007 that I bought new and still love the bike. I mainly used for a mountain trail bike sometime on hyway but not alot. The most important upgrade is the exhaust system and tune after. It really improves torque overall throttle response. There are various other mods the help for comfort and power but exhaust upgrade is a must.....
if your supermoto/dual sport steering wiggles on the highway you need to move forward on the seat, up onto the fuel tank. you also need to lean forward into the wind more. The steering wiggles because wind resistance unloads the front wheel, and Chase here demonstrates what a large fella riding too far back on the seat can do to mess up the dynamics as well.
OC: If the world gets an apocalypse this will be the bike to roam the world
There’s 1 reason to buy this bike.
Learning wheelies.
Surprised we didn’t see any chase on 1 wheel in this video!
I’ve got about 2500 miles on mine now.
-Chase is right, the seat is too thin. Seat concepts makes an aftermarket seat that is perfect.
-The stock exhaust is pretty quiet, but there’s many nice sounding aftermarket options.
-It’s the first bike that I’m my own mechanic for, and it’s very easy to learn to work on.
The only unfixable con is the power on the highway. Yes the bike can go 70-80mph pretty easily but it’s shakey and the wind is a pain in the ass. I still find myself gps’ing with “avoid highways” turned on.
-cruises over potholes and bumps in the road like they don’t even exist.
-I’m 5’11” and it’s the perfect height for me, but my buddy who’s 5’9 thinks it’s too tall.
All in all I absolutely love my 2021 DRZ400sm. Would recommend it to city riders and people who aren’t as mechanically inclined. If you’re a talented mechanic and can deal with lots of maintenance I would recommend one of the lighter, faster, more modern sumos like a Honda crf450 or a husqvarna 701.
I’d especially recommend the 701 if you often find yourself on the highway.
I'm 5'9" and both feet down I'm really steady on the balls of my feet. Rider preference I guess.
@@chickysausages maybe his legs are a lil shorter than yours lol
Yes I agree rider preference. I went with one of the loudest exhausts available. Although it would be fine with any ordinary exhaust mod. Stock is very quiet imo. As chase pointed out, the pops and bangs are even noticeable while stock.
I also opened up my air box and rejetted it. That plus the exhaust made a decently noticeable torque difference.
Needs a better carb imo
My 5'2" girlfriend chooses the drz over the other bikes 😂 you should have seen it when she first started, couldn't get the kickstand up lol
@@ffengtastic5002 something feels fantastic about being up so high.
Turning feels so fluid
@@justinoompa3450 Agreed, love sitting up high. Feels commanding
Bought a 2022 DR-Z400SM this spring and I am loving it! The Seat Concepts Commuter seat is worlds better than stock. I had a 1982 Yamaha XT - 550 back in the day and there is no comparison. at 60 years old i am back in the wind again and loving it!
Excellent choice of bike, can't go wrong with the DRZ400. I have a DR650 but love this bike also.
What was the out the door price boss?
I have a 2003 S. Awesome motorcycle that has been ALL OVER California off and on roads.
16:47 It actually does have adjustable suspension unlike the CRF 250L and some other competitors.
Yeah what is he talking about? The SM’s suspension is fully-adjustable and pulled directly off of Suzuki’s racing dirt bikes. What a dope.
You can literally see the suspension adjustments in the shot while he is saying it doesn't have adjustable suspension lmaooo
Impressive adjustable stock suspension, superior even to the S and E models. Essentially an RMZ250’s lazy overweight but classy uncle.
Unfortunately the lack of ABS has killed it in Australasia.
Look at those "BOLD NEW GRAPHICS" Wooooooo! hahaha
This just might become my first bike. Thanks for all the local runs! I will definitely give Mountain Motorsports a heads up that your review is what pushed me over the edge. HWY 9 will be a whole lot more fun on this bad boy!
get one bro. Best first bike ever. You can race it, jump it, drop it and it doesn't care. My buddy has had the same Dr. Z since college. 12 years and 45k miles. I've finally convinced myself to get one.
Good choice. Check out the klx300sm as well - it has sixth gear.
I ended up buying a 2019 DR 650. I love it!
@@S_Bazaar Good choice. I love that bike
I wish the UK still had these. Suzuki bring it back 👌
This is what id call a living legend
I just got my first Supermoto at 36, and I haven't had so much fun riding in so long as I have on my DRZ. It's amazing how much fun it is to have no electronics or extra BS between me and the bike.
I went and looked at these today, but don't know if it'll keep my excitement. Coming from a 1200 Triumph to this... and I can only have one bike
The ole drz400 is a timeless classic I have. 2003 Kawasaki klx400 and if you know then you know it’s actually a drz400s with green plastics. It’s been an amazing bike to start off for my first bike I do wish I had street tires thou
Owned mine for 2 years, loving it than my other bikes
This model was cool. It is still is cool. And will remain forever cool!
I never thought I'd join a cult but then I bought a DRZ...
I want one of these so bad, I think they did the right thing by not changing anything. There is nothing that needs to change and having everything stay the same makes for a huge advantage when you need to find used parts and for aftermarket.
Agreed. It's like the air cooled Porsche 911 of the motorcycle world. Simple, imperfect, but aftermarket fixes all.
I love the headlight
OC: that’s the trick; the DR-Z never stopped being cool! Now you just need to get yourself to ride a DR650 or XR650L!
I always wanted one of these just to play around on. I used to race an LTZ400 quad years ago offroad and mx. The engine isn't drastically different between the two either.
I'm 5.5 and i was practicing on unliscenced dual sport Chinese 150 cc for 2 years around the block and side roads. At the beginning the seat height was intimidating for me but I got used to it. At that time I decided to go upgrade and there was no choice for me except the drz or no ride. Man the first time I hopped on it on dealership, it was way higher than the previous bike and I barely touch the ground tippy toeing yet I could lean it on one leg. I always trust of my ability to ride it especially encouraged by short guys, kids, and one petite lady biker on youtube rides adventure bikes or basically they are the same process for all bikes once you learn it becomes nature. Beside that I was afraid that the cluster will confuse me with it missing gear positions and fuel capacity. I took the shot, and it was the right one definitely. It has been a week since I got my new 2024 drz. Seat hight cause me no problem, gears been peace of a cake it ain't take me one day to feel it, fuel capacity solved by resetting one of trips each time I refill. Oh boy this bike is fantasy, engine even though it's 400 yet it pulls heavy bro, pops and bangs on first ride. I agree on the highway part, it won't let you down but still scary after some high speed for long distance. However, I'm enjoying every second on this bike it's just a nostalgic toy takes you to childhood.
loved my SM, after 6 years i placed a 440cc bigbore kit on it, which destroyed the engine.
decided to buy a brand new one and keep the old one for parts.
i absolutely love these things, even maintaining it myself is a breeze.
Just you and the mechine bike style... i dig mine, hope to keep it till i am too old.
I have a 2017 with over 76,000 miles on it. Never have had any issues with it. It's as dependable as they come.
I don't have one of these yet, but I do plan on getting one within the next few months. I currently have two KLR 650s, so I'm used to riding bikes with carbs, 5 gears, and that haven't changed style that much since it was created in '87 or so. I love technology, but I'm also old school in a lot of way, and especially if something isn't broke, then don't fix it. EFI *might* be nice to have, but I actually like to do my own wrenching, so I love this bike just the way it is. Now I can't wait to actually ride one and get one for myself! Great video.
I like this bike . Suzuki keeps it simple and that keeps the price reasonable
Yoshi full system, re jet and K&N air filter , I’m 65 and love it. Brought it new in 2012.
if you scoot forward and tuck it helps load the front wheel and parasail less (which unloads front) and this makes the steering way more stable.
I'm thinking a little windshield and a fork brace would help a lot with this bike. Totally bulletproof bike with lots of history and a big following.
Just bought the exact same bike. I love it. Always had dirt bikes. At 57, this is what I need.🤘🤘
What was the out the door price boss?
@@MikeHoncho69420 around $8000 with a nice helmet
just jetted my white 2022 DRZ SM and put on a full Yoshi RS2 exhaust system and it made the bike 100x better to ride
Just hit 1000 on my 22’.
A 6th gear would be nice, of course. But I have no complaints whatsoever.
Have you tried 15/39 gearing? Many owners swear by it.
This is my dream bike! I have a 636 and I am still in love with this bike and I NEED one! If added to my stable my 2 wheeled life would be complete!
Genuinely find this channel interesting , Keep up the good content 🙏🏻
Take out a dr650 if you want and even more archaic feel with it’s dash 😂. It’s a fun bike too though (I have a 2017 model).
Go ahead and buy one ... Love mine 2022 Drz400sm .
I have a 21 model and anyone looking for a hooligan bike this is it!
FR man. Everything I get on mine, I wanna be normal but I end up jumping curbs and looking for dirt. It's such a hooligan.
The SM can handle dirt trails with the stock tires?
@@rus1844 The tires it comes with stock are more street oriented. I run a set of shinkos on mine and have no trouble at all with street and dirt trails.
Love the DRZ
I can come to a full stop on my 790 adv R without putting my feet down for a number of seconds. I think it's just a matter of the upright bikes and neutral seating position. Also the head angle/trail on these bikes lends to stability.
It does have fully adjustable suspension.
Lets hope Chase disengages the choke before he rides it this time 🤞🏻😌🤞🏻
have a 2015 drz yeah 7 years still the same its the most cost effective supermoto without going over 10k
not anymore with the klx300sm for 6k$
@@lazyenword Even with the new 300cc, the power difference is vast.
@@lazyenword KLX has half the horsepower and torque, with worse suspension. Not sure if that's really competition.
@@lazyenwordcap!
You should definitely do the KLX300SM, and compare it to the DRZ400SM and WR250X.
Needs a cosmetic update, a 6 speed wide-ratio trans, fuel injection and voila, I'll buy another one.
Suzuki is not a fan of the U word though, ha. I agree, I might still want one of the old ones.
Plus LEDs all around. Idc about the signals, but head and tail lights should be standard led by now.
@@Otterplus Agreed
I feel like I’ve been making the exact same comment since I bought my last drz in 2012 lol. Great bike needs some modern touches
And then we'll all be complaining about how expensive it is when a couple extra thousand on the pricetag are suddenly thrown on with all those upgrades lol.
I really wanted a 2019 DRZ400SM as that year had such sexy colours imo. I opted against it as I have an ungodly strong anti carb bias. That and I wanted something with more poke anyway. Loving my Husky 701 SM.
Its popular because it has a better price point than the KTM SM that people actually want.
And services intervals are a lot longer than ktm.
Can you do a first ride of the Yamaha mt-10 sp and tell us if you whould pick it or the mt-09 sp as a daily rider.
Just bought a white 2022. Wanted one for six years now
Congrats on finally getting one! At least you didn't miss out on any updates. :D
What was the out-the-door price?
I recommend the JNS Engineering LED headlight. It looks amazing and it’s very bright.
As an Australian this made me chuckle when you kept saying fanny!!!
haha you said fanny! 🤣
Definitely needs a good exhaust system I like to hear it and some bark busters.I reckon it has a pretty good track record like a 250 rebel.
Threw a barker’s exhaust on my 2021 and BOY does it sound wayyyy better now
Took the spark arrestor off and I'm content with the sound.
@@chickysausages Did you have to re-jet it?
@@jimperry4420 no, the whole muffler is still there, I didn't change/improve exhaust flow. It's just a screen that changed the sound. I have noticed zero fueling issues.
@@chickysausages Did mine today. You’re right, sounds good!
OC: i think supermotos will always be cool i just wish Australia had supermotos. Im a wr450f rider and i hate the offroad tyres on the road but comversion is expensive. If only there was supermotos at the dealership cause id trade up today.
What do you mean? I'm Aussie and theyre definitely selling these drz sm's in stores. And the husq 701 sm
@@LaLiam0608 wow ive never seen a drz sm in Australia, are you in Queensland?
If I could only own two bikes it would be the BMW GS 1250 and a DRZ 400 SM 🐐 🐐
Just picked up a 2005 supermoto for $2500 with full yoshimura exhaust. I’m mainly a dirtbike rider but recently got an MT09 to try out street. Amazing bike but I wanted something more in touch with it’s dirt side. Seems like a simple, fun bike!
Your lucky I live in Washington state and there are people asking $4,200-$6,000 for high mileage drz like 12,000 -28,000 miles and $6,000 for low mile ones it's crazy
It has fully adjustable front and rear suspension!!
A fork brace might help on the highway with the squirrelly-ness. A windshield might help as it's a naked bike.
Was watching and seen a local off road shop just noticed your local, very cool!
love this bike. its perfect for twisties like in upstate new york and its perfect for city/suburban traffic cause it sits u high up, light weight and skinny. u can just zoom on by. problem comes with if ur trying to pull long highway speeds. ur prob topping 95 at most
Where in upstate do you ride?
@@Sparaco487 catskill
@@diegoaespitia yeah its fun out there.i just did delhi into the bottom of shokan back into woodstock up threw hunter
Have you tried 15/39 gearing? Many owners swear by it.
@@machupikachu1085 I have 15/38. perfect for commuting. cause u can wide open throttle without the engine screaming. but ur acceleration isn't the best so strong wind or a steep hill has u fighting to keep ur speed consistent
not only the drz in particular, but i'm somehow having a hard time finding info on this - can you take a passenger on something like this? does it have pegs for a passenger?
Just got mine. I’m 57 lol. It has big bore kit/fcr39 carb and it wheelies for fun
Omaze barely gives any money to the causes, so enter if you want the Bronco, but don't think it really does much to support the cause
So is the extra $1000 worth it to get the SM suspension stuff on the bike or can ya do it from parts or other sources? I'm no expert
& just am trying to figure it all out? Better suspension mean better control & a safer ride so anyone who knows please feel free to
add your two cents worth? I like the DRZ & the carbs are not a problem to me. peace
Very cool bike. I’m 5’7” 30” inseam. The bike is kind of tall but very manageable.
As a shorty 5.6 i can still touch toes both sides on my drz, it looks big untill you get upclose to the bike.
still loving my 05 drz sm still running strong, only on the second rear subframe! hate not having rpms, but than again my dash doesn't even work anymore lmao
i do not take my drz on the highway here in NOVA fuckers on rt66 are crazy!
The key 🔑 could be 100 years old if it works.
You can put polisport halo yellow headlight. There a brand that makes nice restyle kit for the Drz. And you can put some cool aftermarket pipes on that
Do these Drz’s feel a lot more powerful than say a new klx300sm?
Yes
yes
Night and day, fam. Dr.Z has almost twice the horsepower, torque and better suspension.
How much do you weigh these days? Do you find power feels different than it used to or not that much ?
Got an 07 sm and it's the best bike I've ever had... There is a reason Suzuki hasn't changed it... Imo it just needs a restyle get rid of the ugly headlight
I hope you get to review a klx 300sm. I’ve been really thinking about getting one.
I have a 1997 300 that was made street legal, same motor but the flywheel is lighter and the cdi allows for higher redline so after riding both I'd say I prefer the older version with sm wheels lol. That being said the new sm is amazing and very flickable, a pipe and a tune will allow for 93mph before redline and it gets there very quick
Hey Henry. Get the the DRZsm. You will outgrow the KLX, but the 'Zuki has almost twice the horsepower, torque and better suspension. The Dr.Z has enough juice to actually ride two up, or get on the freeway. The KLX, not so much.
@@machupikachu1085 you know what's funny is that I just picked up a 2022 drzsm to daily and I gotta say I enjoy the klx more
@@machupikachu1085 the drz is a blast and definitely more practical but both feel equally stressed on the freeway and the klx is more flickable. Klx is more fun in my opinion because I don't care much about power and the klx makes plenty for me at least. If you want power tho definitely get the drz
@@pandamoto Have you tried 15/39 gearing? It makes highway use far better on the Zuke. Many owners swear by it.
Wonder if we are ever gonna get a 690 ktm smc review
Bought this bike brand new based on your review. No ragrets. Cheers.
C'mon Chase, fully adjustable front and rear! Wimpy motor, yes But it's suspension is L-E-G-I-T.
On the street?.. yea a little wimpy but using it offroad on trails it has more than enough low end. Also wheelies over obstacles easily. I have 21k miles on mine.
I’ve had a 600 gsxr before and this one isn’t as fast on the top end, but the torque is probably better tbh. That’s what I got it for. Wheelies and off-road. Plus putting around town
@@CoffeeAndBusiness it's such a fun bike around town and it begs for wheelies
Have you considered looking into the CFMoto bikes ? Some very interesting looking choices at a VERY REASONABLE pricing
Would this be a good first bike because I’m gonna register for the basic rider course and I’ve never ridden a motorcycle the only time I’ve ridden a bicycle was when I was nine but with training wheels and I’ve been considering getting a Drz as my first ever motorcycle because of it being lightweight and easy to manure since I’m only 6’0 and 171 lbs
Smart idea taking the MSF course. It could literally save your life. Also the Dr.Z is a great first bike. All first bikes get dropped, but you can drop these things. They don't care.
I need this bike for my collection!
If history is going to eventually repeat itself, you should find a yellow SV to ride and see if it still feels like the "old days".
I think I'd just get a windshield put on and it would be a lot better on the freeway. I'm thinking of getting this over the 300L just because the more power it has keeping up with traffic. important if your going to be in it a lot! and a lot of fun to just cruize the ol backroads.
Damn Chase the suspension sags so much with your weight but it still seemed too stiff for my skinny body when I had a DRZ 2 years ago. I'm worried the KTM 690 (my next bike) would be even stiffer since it didn't sag so much with you on it.
Just adjust the suspension?
@@Jajeweet yeah, sag, rebound, compression fast and slow: all adjustable at stock!
Only thing I thought it need was a tach, which I added for $25. I have the S model, now considering buying a SM model to add to my garage...
needs steering dampener but love mine dampener makes it great!
Great review and tutorial.
Only thing i don't love is the front fender and the exhaust covering.
I'd like it better as a twin too but, eh-