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I have a 2013 DRZ400 and a 2017 DR650. The 400 suspension is definitely better suited for heavy riders and rougher terrain,but the 650 is sooooo much nicer to ride any kind of distance on. The 400 is way to buzzy and doesn’t have the transmission for proper road travel. The 650 can do it all. With a few suspension mods the mighty DR will tackle anything and you won’t be fatigued at the end of the day.
I've had both, agree 95% with you. The DR is heavy, the DRZ tall and heavy, I'm not heavy, so at the end of the day on either bike I've been fatigued. My choice for dualsport? WR250R uncorked. But between the DR and DRZ for any kind of riding, DR only. In fact, if one comes by at a good price, I'll pick it up for modding into a big bore street tracker
I'm 180lbs and my DR-Z isn't strained or buzzy at all at 65mph. Plus I have little interest in going much faster than that so it works for me since it's much better on gnarlier trails.
Im just about 60 and have owned numerous 30-40 bikes over the years . Cruisers . road bikes , many single cylinder dual sports from 200 to 650 cc and also a Vstrom and a Versys. Favorite bike overall is the DRZ400 hands down.
I'm there with you Eric. Same, same! I have a DRZ 400 SM and am really loving it! I just came off 30 years of super sports, last one being an SV1000S, which is a great street bike BTW. This little bike is great on the road, of course. I tear up the back roads in TN where I now live. I take corners faster and do some things that are unbecoming a nearly 61yo. :-) Makes me feel a bit younger when I ride it! With some Shinko 705's on the SM, it does pretty well offroad, as long as I stay away from the wet clay in these parts. :-) I might look into a set of 18 / 21 wheels/tires for offroad. You are correct though, the 400 is a very fun bike!
@@7x779 here in Australia recently an old guy came off his big fast adventure bike and nearly died. My mates came across another guy with a BMW that he couldn't pick up by himself.
@@redtobertshateshandles thanks for sharing that, it helps temper my lust and longing for a big adventure bike. My job and lifestyle doesn't allow extensive planning and group trips so I like to take spur-of-the-moment solo trips or with a passenger as time schedule and the weather allows. Not being able to pick up a bike if you fall over takes the fun and the adventure part out of an adventure bike Especially as you get older and weaker and lose a lot of your strength For me I would think a Husqvarna 701 or Zuki dr650 would be ideal, except once again even after 40 years the manufacturers don't seem to have enough sense to gear them correctly. Even the 701 has a 6-speed, owner still complain that the ratios are too close and they still longing for a 7th or 8th gear on the highway Having to spend thousands of dollars for an aftermarket transmission to be installed is absolutely ridiculous
My '96 DR650 that I bought ten years ago has been fantastic. I've put a ton of mods on it and I've put over 25,000 miles on it and it's been an amazing bike. Cogent Dynamics rear shock is fully adjustable and a stiffer spring works great. Up front I did Gold Valves and stiffer springs. It's just awesome. Future plans include the 790 big bore.
Great review. My 2005 DRZ400S has 26k miles and has been a great bike on motorcross, single-track, dirt roads and highways. It is capable of interstate speeds, but not comfortable and doesn’t have the fuel range for long distance adventure riding. The suspension is awesome, and it is probably the best dual sport bike for it’s price. I now have a KTM 790R (with cruise control), but keeping the DRZ for hardcore dirt.
2006 DR650 - done several 10 day 1500 mile mostly dirt adventures, this bike rocks. Super easy maintenance as well. Upgrade skid plate, larger tank, lights, route a spare clutch cable and you are golden!
As a tall guy with already a heavy ADV bike for more road oriented use, this video helped me choose. I'm orienting my choice towards the DRZ 400 thanks to you.
KLR 650, DR 650 , DR-Z400 , perfect examples of road to dirt transition, the DR 650 was my pick because it does both well but neither as good as the other. offroad there are going to be instances where you simply will not cross a certain obstacle with the KLR without damaging it, the DR is going to be a challenge but you will pass with no damage . On the road as everyone knows the KLR is the comfort king , so if touring mostly highway and doing some dirt roads with a simple single trail here and there then the KLR is your bike. If extended camping trips on backroads and mostly single trail paths and "bush tracking" is your thing with the odd one out highway trip then its DRz all the way. As a daily commuter and adventure bike i'd throw the DRz out of the mix and lean twords the DR instead of the KLR, as the maintenance on the DR is just a tad bit simpler for commuting aswell as field repairs. I could not decide what i wanted to do and then decided i wanted to do a mix bag of everything and there is just one of the three that ticks all the boxes and that is the DR 650. Move along a couple of years and i started doing more local one day outings so i should probably have gotten the DRz , but the DR still does it all, a bit more effort but that is a easy trade-off for the superior highway capability it still has. I'm gonna go up 2 or so teeth on the rear sprocket once its time for replacement and im sure that is gonna make a world of a difference for my current needs ,..... well that was the idea till i broke my femoral neck and was out for a few months and discovered a new hobby , light weight 4X4-ing , bought a cheap beat up terios for the price of a DR or DRz and now i can experience nature with my daughters , i mean we go through all the shrubs big fancy 4X4's dont want to go through because they dont want to get scratches. the suzuki jimny would have been a better idea but yeh water under the bridge , the packing and camping style is more or less the same as with a bike as there is very limited space and 4 people need to pack very light , so keeping the DR for later years when the kids are teenagers and dont like me anymore , but for now i want to experience life with my kids and a light weight 4X4 with a price tag matching that of a DR and not having the fuel consumption of a old cheap V8 is the perfect thing for me , it has no diff locks so there is alot of digging , rock packing and rope pulling involved in simple outings and man is it fun !!!! So for now i'll be a "youtube biker" , just to keep in touch with my free spirited brethren.
Good comparison and info on the 3 bikes. I might just start out with a cheaper 200 or 250 bike and then graduate to a 400 or 650. I'm 5'10" and have only ridden bikes a small amount compared to ATV/quads, so I think the 650 would be easier/more comfortable, the 400 at the dealership was at my tippy-toe limit, not sure if its adjustable much stock. I'd probably only do like 10-20% offroad anyways. Your femoral neck femur injury sounds very rough, but good you found something else fun to do. Those lightweight 4x4s look awesome, usually end up going more places than the heavys as they'll float more over mud and such, only issue is ground clearance sometimes - and having a cheap 4x4 you can actually beat up with no regrets actually lets ya have fun. The MPG is a good point too, if you get lockers, even cheap mechanical "lunch box", it would be almost unstoppable - but a cheap $100 winch and a mount in the front and back would be great.
Loved my 650. Heavier springs and DDCs up front, Cogent shock internals in the rear. It was an awesome 3-5 day adventure bike. Comfortable and capable.
I’m 60 and still love my Kaw Concours 14 Over the ten years I’ve had it I’ve dumped a ton of money into it to make it mine so I can’t even think about selling it. I’ve wanted a dual sport forever but just couldn’t justify it. I’ve narrowed my choice clear down to the DR 650 for my age and 250 lbs. Gonna need full suspension kit. Off roading will be mild trails. I’m too old for preventable broken bones. I’m going to shop slowly and patiently for one that someone has already lovingly dumped a wad of money on upgrades. 🤙
I'm over 60 years old and find that the limiting factor when you are older is the ability to pick up the bike when you go down. Your lower back past age 50 really gives you fits and picking up a loaded DR650 becomes quite a task, especially if you ride alone as I sometimes do. I believe the 650 is the bike for me, but as I get closer to 70 I have to make hard decisions. I currently ride a KLX250S as its even lighter than the DRZ but would prefer the extra power (no comparison) of the DRZ. The KLX has a hard time maintaining 60 mph on a slight incline @ 5000' elevation. I'm sure that's no problem for the DRZ. It would benefit SUZUKI greatly if they added a 6th gear to the DRZ, even if they still maintained the carb instead of FI. There must be a good reason why they don't upgrade to a 6-speed as the DS riders all agree that the bike would benefit greatly. I owned a 1991 DR350 (kicker) and wish they still offered that bike as it was a great compromise....more power than the 250's, air-cooled and comes with a 6-speed. I remember there was a 441cc kit for the 350 if power was ever an issue.
How come KAWASAKI was able to add FI to the KLX250S in 2018? They didn't even have to increase the price significantly. I believe the DRZ stills sells and they're still making a profit on it, so why change a thing? I still have hope that they will update it and surprise us all!
They are both Great, I have put over 30,000 miles on each (and 15,000 on xr650L). Can go back and forth all day on the pros and cons, but in the end unless you have trouble with the height of the DRZ, or plan on riding more than 250 miles per day, the safety and time made up in the dirt outweigh the deficit on the street. Most people always trying to make their heavy, poor handling dualsport bike better in the dirt (suspension, weight, etc.) Get the better dirtbike, and put on a good seat, windscreen, and gearing (taller) to make it better on the street, cheaper mods, much safer, and more fun for the time you are in the dirt.
I have five bikes including a Beta 300rr which is the bike I ride the most, also an xr600r, a klx250, a drz400 and a kdx200. If I was to sell all my bikes but one, I'd keep the drz. It's just the most versatile bike I have. Not to mention it's set up for adventure with luggage, an oversize gas tank and all the engine mods except high compression and stroked. It does well enough on the single tracks and good on the highway. It has plenty of power and is very dependable. I have 27,000 miles on the clock and it runs flawlessly and I'm not easy on it. I like to go fast on the dirt. So yeah, drz all day.
@pablo gonzalez Lmao yeah. People see those overweight and underpowered bikes with poor peripherals and call it "Japanese trustworthiness" when in fact they won't break because they don't perform in the first place.
I had a DRZ Supermoto for commuting and then I switched to a dr650 Supermoto for commuting and it made a hell of a difference!!, for the street I recommended dr650 hands down.....
Bought my drz400s right off the floor last February and couldn't be happier. It was a close call between the DR and the DRZ, what sold me was the weight. I commute 50 miles a day but I also ride single track and it does both well. Thanks for the great videos!
Commuting 50 miles a day on a Drz Isn’t bad round-trip, but if you want to do any kind of adventure riding long-distance riding you’re really gonna start to heat a DRC 400
Just bought the 650. Low end grunt for me...tractors awesome. Suspension, pegs, bars, etc. can all be modded but modding for lower seat height is not always optimum. I'm shorter so chose the 650 vs. trying to mod the 400 so I could use more feet plant on the trail. There are youtube vids out there showing guys taking the 650 everywhere offroad...single track, climbs, etc. It's quite capable. Having a little more for the on road also makes it nice to get to where you want to go. I had a nice WR before and had to mod suspension to lower it. Have to admit I love the tractor now vs. the winding it up when you want the power. If I have my way...this 650 in the garage plus adding another dirt only bike (coming soon hopefully) is the perfect fit for me.
I upgrade my DR650s with some used parts on the cheap, and can sell the stock parts to recoup costs. I got 5gal tanks for $100-$150. I got skids for $50. I got a GSXR muff for free. Used DR-Z forks and shocks can be adapted to a DR650. RM or KTM suspension can be fitted too. DRs don't necessarily need racks to haul luggage either. A duffel straps to the rear fender and seat just fine. So do rackless bags like Giant Loop or MoskoMoto. Tank panniers and tank bag work well too. Green Chile offers rackless options for luggage too.
You forgot about the biggest advantage of the DR650! It has a nice wide ratio 5spd, the DRZ400 has a very narrow range 5spd. It sucks on the highway, and you cant fix it with a sprocket change because 1st gear will be way too high. I originally owned a DRZ400 and switched to a DR650 because of this. If you were just doing small stints on paved backroads to get between trails (AKA dual sporting), it is fine. If you need to ride significant miles on the road (aka adventure riding) it's a huge drawback.
This is the comment that I needed to hear to decide between the two bikes. I am looking for something simple that could fill in for my KTM 890 Adventure S if it is down for mods or repairs. I routinely ride a 1000 mile loop so I need to be able to pull a 500 mile day on mostly freeway. This trumps my desire for the better off-road capabilities of the DRZ.
Exactly if you have to ride over 50 miles on pavement to get to your trails at highway speeds you’re going to be tired and drained by the time you get to the trails. DRZ is great if you’re gonna throw it on the trailer and drive to the trail, but if it’s oh want a do it all bike DR 650 the best.
2012 drz400s is awesome 50/50 bike! I was shopping these two 3 years ago and could not for the life of me make up my mind. I found this one with both sets of wheels and tires, hand guards, top storage box, various sprocket sizes, led lights, fender eliminator, fmf exhaust, airbox mod and filter and jet kit and bigger tank. I ride to work daily 25 miles. I built a woods/mx track at my house and it does it all with ease. Your videos helped me make the choice and i would make the same again. If youre on the fence and you do much off roading, take the drz. Its a street legal dirt bike that can rip the trails with the 450s.
He failed to mention while talking about the transmission that the DR has a much better spread between gears than the DRZ. The DR will run all day long at 75mph and feel relaxed doing it while the DRZ is screaming at 65-70mph.
I've had them both. Put 5,000 miles on the DRZ and over 50,000 on the DR. Once modded I took my DR anywhere off road the DRZ would go. The DRs gear ratios are much better for the road. DR gets my vote for versatility but the DRZ is a fine bike.
I sold the DR and bought a KTM690R. It’s a nice bike that’s faster, has ABS, and has a much better suspension but no where near as versatile as the DR except for the better KTM stator for running heated gear. On the Hwy the DR is better than my 2016 690. Pre-2020 690Rs are buzzy.at hwy speeds. New ones are suppose to have an extra counter balancer for smoother performance. The DR is simply a great all around package.
I chose the DR650. With a 30" inseam, EVERYTHING'S too tall, so I lowered it with Soupy's adjustable links and had the front and rear suspensions totally upgraded and rebuilt (also removing 3/4" from the kickstand). "My" top riding speed is around 70-75 MPH, so I could afford to go to a 14 tooth front sprocket - I had the room off the top end. I ditched the factory "Death Wings" for some Kenda K270's for adequate dirt grab, yet good road grip, added a variety of protection (skid plate, case guards, front sprocket case guard, frame guards and bark busters), lowered/added wider foot pegs, added some Steg Pegz in place of the buddy pegs, upgraded and raised the handlebars, upgraded the headlight to a halogen H-4, protected it with a grill guard and added some auxiliary lights for visibility. I don't go on "long" rides, so I kept the factory tank, but added a pair of Rotopax in case the situation arose. For comfort I added a Sargents seat and capped it off with a sheepskin (yeah, that's right). It's so comfortable, every 5 miles I have to stop, get off and let my ass laugh!🤣 I prepared it for "overnighters" with pannier racks, a rear fender rack, a tank bag and a Tusk front fender bag. A bigger tool kit was a must. Next on the agenda: carb kit, opening the air box, adding a complementing exhaust (specifics to be determined) and a steering damper. If I had it to do all over again, I'd still choose the DR650. It's been nothing less than a total blast. I ride (about) 70% off road; of that, 10-20% intermediate single trails. Nothing real tough. It's perfect for my neck of the woods.🤙
@@samuelbowlin8338 When you added the bigger rear sprocket, did you keep the 15 front? I'd also like to hear what header you used. Thanks for your post.
@@samuelbowlin8338 A guy has to lay down some coin for an FMF system, front to tail. But the folks who have them rave about 'em. Hats off to you, bro. Sounds like you have a keeper.
Find a used DR650 on the cheap. Put on RMZ450 forks, change out the CV carb for a TM 40 and change out that crappy rear shock and you're kickin butt with one of the best ADV bikes there is. Bigger aftermarket tank, better seat, and a few other little things that's up to preference to make it perfect for you.
Been wanting a good comparison video on these 2 bikes. Well done! I bought a brand new 2017 drz400sm in early 2018 and have been kitting it out since. I think I'm finally done now lol! I think the 400 does a great job of pretending to be a dirt bike and a road bike. Best of both worlds.
I bought a brand new 2001 drz in 2003. It was awesome. Loved it. Very fun on and off road. Wheelie monster. I went everywhere on one wheel. Cops didn't like it too much.
With the price difference between the two bikes, you could get the 650 and upgrade suspension to something way better than the 400 for around same price. 650 is the better buy, 400 is overpriced.
DRZ400s rider here since 2007. I haven’t modded much. Handlebar risers, hand protectors, luggage rack and rear fender eliminator. I gotta put a pipe on it and maybe 3x3 mod
the DR650 is lacking a bit in stock configuration but with simple modifications it becomes one hell of a machine. Mine has a Pro Taper bar, stiffer rear spring and rebound shock setting. The front forks have stiffer straight rate spring instead of progressive rate, the fork oil is a heavier weight, and it has fully adjustable cartridge emulators to control fluid flow on compression and rebound, as well as added pre load. my ground clearance is nearly 14 inches. I also installed a high compression piston, the carb is jetted and needle shimmed, and it has a slipon T-4 ProCircuit (way too loud even with a dense re-pack) The SOHC still offers 4 valves for the single cylinder, but has rocker arms so valve adjustments are a breeze. Its a great platform to start with and they've been produced from 1996 until 2019 as far as I know.
I'm about to put the straight 350lb fork springs and 350lb rear shock hoping to get the bike higher. I'm 6'1" 240lbs and this 650 currently feels like a small toy with power. Also lowering the pegs 2" and raising the bars 2". I'm hoping it will feel like a dirtbike after all this and not like a Harley Softtail. 😂
I commute to work almost every day on my drz 400s and go play in the desert when i can. A few months ago i did a 3 days trip from vegas to UT, camping (bushcraft style) it was fun. But loaded with gear, the bike was sometimes very unstable at highway speed, i was mostly doing 75 mph. I have a top case (harborfreight gun case) 2 saddle bags ((rigg gear adv soft bags) plus more stuff on top of them. I had no issues going off road loaded like this, only problem i encountered was when i went over brian head, elevation was super high vs my jetting for vegas.
You can add the DRZ400 clutch arm to the DR650 to lighten the pull and expand the friction zone. It’s slightly longer. You will need to hit it with a thin file for about 5 minutes for the cable to fit, but it’s an easy, worthwhile mod.
I did get another DR650 just getting it broke in 1350 km so far put the Acerbis 5 gal tank on as well as skid plate, heated grips, rear rack for the Givi 46 liter top box, center stand and a few other things. It will be my main ride, going to look in to changing the foot pegs and better lights, This is a keeper, one of the best all round bikes out there.
Got both. Originally had a DRZ S. Revalved suspension and heavier springs. Good on dirt. Buzzy and not as stable on the highway. S motor is OK with FCR and exhaust. Sold it when I found a mint DR 650. Race Tech emulators in forks with Gold valves in shock really transforms ride off road. Again, heavier springs. S.C. seat, lowered pegs, Protaper bars etc. Built an 18" rear wheel. Can pretty much do as DRZ on dirt, but more satisfying on road. Found a lightly ridden DRZ400E for all dirt days. Lighter than the S with more power. Wish I could plate it in Ca...
If you're in the market for a DR 650, don't get anything older than 1996..before then, they were just awful bikes, both on and off-road. I had a 1992 DR 650 as my first bike. Learnt to ride in sand with it, but it was just a pig of a bike, and underpowered for it's weight. Now I have a DRZ400S from 2000, which have a few mods on it. 440 big bore kit, hot cams, 3x3 mod, yoshi full system FCR 39 mm carb, ACT wide ratio gear kit and ohlins suspension in the rear. I love this bike! It's a keeper. I also have a motard kit for it, when the urge for paved twisty roads becomes too big :)
I was on the fence 2 years ago in between those 2 bikes and I picked the DRZ400sm because of its superior suspension, which on the SM is from previous generations RMZ450. Just swap the front 17 inches wheel for a 21 inches with knobbies and voila!
I don't like rebuilding carbs but I'll take the bush pig over a EFI alternative any day just because of the simplicity of the whole thing. Only bike I've had that's easier to work on is the TW.
Good comparison. My DR560SE cracked the cylinder head cover almost immediately after purchase and lost the top end dramatically (cam journal failure) at around 68,000 miles. I'm thinking of the four hundo as a replacement. With some simple mods the 650 made a perfect commuter. I think that the 400 is a slightly higher spec bike that should theoretically last longer with similar maintenance requirements.
That’s an honest and unbiased comparison. Cut and dry , you summed up the key points and I think in terms of what dual sport riders value most , to cover a broad spectrum of riding skills and different types of riders , these two bikes could fulfill the needs of most people. Personally, I’m leaning towards the DRZ400S, I just wish it were fuel injection and a six speed transmission( and a diet to shed a few pounds) it would be the ultimate dual sport bike ever.
As a DRZ owner, the biggest thing I would change is 6 speed. Carb is no big deal (fcr is probably my next mod), yeah it's a little heavy, but it's also cheap and bullet proof. I just would love one more gear
@@eflanagan1921 As it turns out, I might be adding a lighter, fewer stroke, 6 speed, but still carbed bike here in the next week... That will be more strictly off-road than dual sport though
Can you image a DR650 with EFI, modern suspension, and a 6th gear :) Keep everything else the same, air cooled, especially the body, and you'll have yourself another 30 years of WINNING.
Yup would be nice, but its grandfathered as is, adding EFI would force it to have to comply with current DOT/EPA emissions and sound requirements, it would have to have a CAT, SMOG/Air Pump and a lot more noise reduction. This is why Honda (XR650L), Kawasaki (KLR650) and Suzuki have kept these bike more or less as is for nearly 30 years. The KLR did change dramatically in 2008 but that was 99% chassis, suspension, cosmetic, the motor was left almost unchanged for this reason.
I would definitely trade my SM wheels in for dual sport wheels on my DRZ400SM. I am very limited in where i can go with 17'' wheels with street tires. I would love to do some adventure rides this year and take it into the wild.
Not even a contest... shim adjusted valves vs wrench, cooling system vs not, wider ratio trans.. low end torque. larger riding layout. Room under the sprocket cover for more teeth. (60mpg capable). I was a mechanic at a Suzuki dealer for 30 years... DRZs are great, but if I'm gonna be somewhere between bumf%$k and hells a hole I'm going with the 650.
@Philip Thomas a busted hose or smashed radiator can leave you stranded, a stuck thermostat will leave you stranded, and a broken pump impeller will leave you stranded. Air Cooled means there's no cooling system, so in a harsh environment it can prove more practical and dependable. However a liquid cooled bike has a huge number of advantages, and for a daily ridden street commuter I would absolutely choose liquid cooled. On a light duty, occasional trail ridden dual sport I would choose liquid cooled. But for a mountainous, treacherous, cross country adventure bike I may lean towards air cooled.
Had the DR 650 the only thing I did not like was the small gas tank. and did not want to put a plastic one on, But I miss that bike so much thinking of getting another and going with the black IMS 4.9 liter tank. I want it for dirt roads and light trail riding, at 71 yr I like slow trail riding and the way it is set up does pretty good, will also change the tires. Went from hard packed gravel doing 80 km and hit some soft sand, the bike did ok but just ok was a little scary. So that will be 3 in the stable a Suzuki S 40 great to get the feel of the wind in your chest also fun on windy roads., Vesays X 300 with trekker side bags and top box 33 and 46 liter. great for long tours, and shopping, the DR 650 for hitting the dirt roads and light trails and day rids The versys also great on the windy roads and running through the gears.
Very well done. All good to know, tested upgrades. As we are now in the world of 15k- 25k bikes that still need upgrades , I would much rather build my own to my needs. The DRZ and the old DR 650 are still able to do anything the BMW's can do..maybe better and parts are still reasonable. Priced out BMW or Ducati parts lately? Yay for Suzuki and Rocky for the truth, not a sales pitch. No metal soundtrack, no MTV editing, no jive. Love it. Do more and more please. I started in 1971 when a DT250 Yamaha kicked ass..50,years ago. I wanted inside info then and haven't quit yet! Go Rocky Mountain MC ATV
Nice video, I appreciated your strong useful information.for me No more highway long drive long trips over varied terrain then take the 650 , the DR 650 is a Tiger tank, bomb proof ..the DR650 is the newest and technologically advanced Japanese air-cooled big single, strong and easy to maintain and there are a ton of parts available in North America at very low cost.If you like to play in the dirt and fun so take the DRZ.
Adjust your rebound. I jump my drz all the time. Only about 6 feet of air under it, but handles it very well. I have stiffer springs installed at both ends too. Over 30,000 miles on it. Runs and rides like new.
I had a beautiful xr650r street legal honda power up kit but I couldn't kick it anymore because hip problem. Now I have the 650L. Still a nice bike but nowhere close to the 650r. If anyone read this whole thing you probably need a hobby.
Great comparison/review of your awesome bike builds! One thing you didn't mention (regular viewers already know), is that you are a pretty light-weight guy. Many of us riders are going to be pushing 100 lbs on you, and that has to be figured into bike choice if you want more grunt from your bike, when you need it. I've looked at both of these a lot (currently riding a DR 350) but still hopeful that Yamaha will come out with something that is a happy medium, like a WR 450 R!! :-)
Thanks for the interest, and yes it is a '99 SE model with low mileage and some nice upgrades. I will however, be hanging onto it for the foreseeable future! ATB, and ride safe! @@eflanagan1921
It depends if you want to do a lot of highway get the dr 650, but if you want more off-road with less weight get the drz 400. You'll be amazed, here in Texas sometimes the speed limit is 80 MPH, the Dr 650 can do that all day.
Great review. I love my DRZ, I'd love the top end speed of the 650 but after hearing about the suspension (which I do a lot of technical trail riding) I'm glad I have the 400.
Comparing these bikes against each other is like comparing a Cadillac to a Monte Carlo! I have a dr650 the only issue I can fathom is it could do with some kind of extra cooling for trail riding, but I really haven't had much of a problem except for going back and forth on my driveway. As for the suspension I don't understand how you say there is no adjustment, but you are probably talking about newer models. Mine is a 94, original rear shock had a 4 position ring for the spring. Now has coil over style threaded shock and plan to at some time get the one with dampening adjustment. So the aftermarket will give you a whole lot of adjustment! Also when i was looking online for a clutch, rocky mountian didn't pop up as a site for my 650. As a mater of fact revzilla doesn't even list a DR650 for parts, neither does cycle gear. Found a clutch from Partzilla was the only place other than junkbay(ebay) or amazon, sorry if anyone out there trusts either of those sites I dont!
I’m a bigger guy 6’1” And 245lbs. The DR650 is perfect for me. Halls my ass anywhere I want to go. I did have the Shock rebuilt for my weight $200. money well spent. Used market the DR is about $500 less then the DRZ despite being a bigger bike. You could buy it and almost have front and back suspension tuned in for you for the difference
The DR can be shaved to about the same curb weight as the DR-Z400S...320lb. Add a big bore and cam, install adjustable suspension, throw on some DOT knobs, and a shaved DR is then an offroad beast that can also bomb slab all day at 80MPH.
The DR650 is a street bike that you can take off road. The DRZ400 is a dirt bike that you can ride on the street. FWIW, on my '03 DR650 I have lower pegs, a wider seat, GSXR muffler and a FCR carb, if Suzuki would do similar upgrades the DR650 sales would skyrocket! Or maybe come out with a twin cylinder V-Strom 450... :-)..
I really see 3 types of riding. Paved roads, unpaved roads, and offroad. If you look at it like this, the DR650 is an Unpaved-Roads bike that can do pavement and offroad also.
I've ridden the DRZ400s and I own a 2013 stock DR650. The 650 is more like a Jeep Wrangler or a Tractor, and the 400 is more like a 4x4 Nissan pickup or a dirtbike. The 400 engine runs a bit smoother but it doesn't have quite the torque... when you shift the 650, you immediately feel the torque squat the rear and get you accelerating quicker. You don't feel a bunch of but squatting torque right away with the 400, but if you're not 300lbs like me, it will move you around quickly. For my weight and size, I'm glad I have the extra Torque. But the 400 seems to have a smoother acceleration thru each gear. Shifting on the 650 is a bit more "clunky" like an old 1985 stickshift F150. The 400 shifts more like a 10 year old 6 speed Mazda. Power is just a hair more on the 650 which you'll come to love on the highway, but the lighter, nimbler, weight and suspension of the 400 feels more like a dirtbike on single track. The 650's torque is a lot more enjoyable. Period. 650 can easily pull a 300lb guy up a hill in straight light, but if there's a lot of bumping around the 400 being 60 lbs won't wear you out as quickly if you're having to put put your feet down and stabilize often.. The 400 sits higher, is lighter and more nimble feeling and seems to have less vibration thru the higher revs. You really feel the huge 650 single "chugging" and "thumping". I take a lot more spills on my DR650 offroad than I ever did with my YZ125 when I was 18 and fit. (now I'm 35 and fat lol)
Was the 400 annoying on the slab? I'm trying to decide between a few bikes. The orange ones in this range all have some serious issues on-top of the already $$$ pricetag. That only leaves a few options and my short ass makes it even fewer, lol. I'm leaning to the 650 for highway use but the better 400 suspension calls to me. Man, why is this so hard lol. Spills happen, especially with heavy bikes. You lean them a bit too far, your foot sinks into the sand and it's over lol. I kinda wish I tried smaller bikes since I jumped straight into a 420lb bike and took it offroad(at least this way no matter which bike I switch to it'll feel light by comparison).
This is exactly the video I was looking for. Went to Suzukis website because I cant afford an adv bike but got the idea a dual sport would be a good everyday commuter for me that I could strap to my campervan for a backup ride/fun bike, and I couldn't understand why the 400 cost more than the 650. I have a fiancee whose not terribly comfortable sitting on our scooter back....is there any kind of aftermarket seat for these types of bikes that can provide a sissy bar or rest of any kind for the pure psychological comfort? I suppose if there was a good way to attach a large luggage device that might work as well. I couldn't find a whole lot of info on aftermarket firrings for these guys
Seat Concepts and Sergeant both make really nice, expensive comfy sets for both bikes. The Dr.Z is more expensive as it is water cooled, and is more costly to produce than the Dr. which is air cooled with an oil cooler. Both Tusk and Nelson Rigg make great soft bags for dirt bikes - so you won't need the extra weight of panniers. If you plan on doing more off road, city commutes and only occasional free/highway, the 400 is your better choice. It is excellent in the dirt, but abject misery on the open road for anything over an hour or so. It's too light. If you plan on using the bike on the road or highway - the 650 is your guy. It will however suffer off road in the gnarly stuff as it's stock suspension is, well, sus. It sucks to pick up as well - it's too heavy. That 40lb weight difference makes the Dr way better on the highway with a dirt penalty, and that same 40lbs makes the Dr.Z way better on the dirt with a freeway penalty. Also tires make a MASSIVE difference. I'd rather take a 650 with MT21 tires off road than a 400 with trailwings. There's no unicorn machine and no free lunch. Pick your poison and choose your weapon. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Excellent comparison; balanced, informative and useful. Toss in the DL650 and you’d thoroughly Suzuki the segment; the underdogs have more bark ‘n bite than the other manufacturers would have us believe.
Thanks! I wouldn't mind spending more time on the DL650, but it is designed more for street than I like. I like the dirt too much. No doubt the DL650 would be way better for the guy who rides more street and just a little on the dirt roads. - Justin
The problem with the DR650 is you've got to spend $5K in upgrades to get it to the "Mighty 650" I hear stories about. I'm about to drop my first $2,500 to try to get it to actually feel somewhat like a dirtbike and capable of long adventures.
You know UA-cam is not American. So having all your measurements and stats in metric as well would be a very welcomed addition for the rest of the world to understand and appreciate your effort into making these videos.
Race Tech cartridge emulators in my DRs forks and gold valve in the shock makes a world of difference. Adjusting the forks is a pain, but now possible.
+1 It takes some tinkering to get the emulators just right, but a fun process if you understand suspension. Rear shock just wont keep up off-road without a re-valve.
Want the same parts for your bike? browse all your options here.
Suzuki DR650 Bike Build Parts: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/Sales/2309/Bike-Build-2014-Suzuki-DR650?
Suzuki DR-Z400 Bike Build Parts: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/Sales/2126/Suzuki-DRZ400?
I have a 2013 DRZ400 and a 2017 DR650. The 400 suspension is definitely better suited for heavy riders and rougher terrain,but the 650 is sooooo much nicer to ride any kind of distance on. The 400 is way to buzzy and doesn’t have the transmission for proper road travel. The 650 can do it all. With a few suspension mods the mighty DR will tackle anything and you won’t be fatigued at the end of the day.
That's why i sold my drz for a dr and it was the best decision i made
I've had both, agree 95% with you. The DR is heavy, the DRZ tall and heavy, I'm not heavy, so at the end of the day on either bike I've been fatigued. My choice for dualsport? WR250R uncorked. But between the DR and DRZ for any kind of riding, DR only. In fact, if one comes by at a good price, I'll pick it up for modding into a big bore street tracker
I'm 180lbs and my DR-Z isn't strained or buzzy at all at 65mph. Plus I have little interest in going much faster than that so it works for me since it's much better on gnarlier trails.
Im just about 60 and have owned numerous 30-40 bikes over the years . Cruisers . road bikes , many single cylinder dual sports from 200 to 650 cc and also a Vstrom and a Versys. Favorite bike overall is the DRZ400 hands down.
That's saying a lot with how many you've had! Thanks for sharing.
I'm there with you Eric. Same, same! I have a DRZ 400 SM and am really loving it! I just came off 30 years of super sports, last one being an SV1000S, which is a great street bike BTW. This little bike is great on the road, of course. I tear up the back roads in TN where I now live. I take corners faster and do some things that are unbecoming a nearly 61yo. :-) Makes me feel a bit younger when I ride it!
With some Shinko 705's on the SM, it does pretty well offroad, as long as I stay away from the wet clay in these parts. :-) I might look into a set of 18 / 21 wheels/tires for offroad.
You are correct though, the 400 is a very fun bike!
How about if you want to ride on the highway and take a passenger, and if the off-road areas you ride mostly very long and fast dirt roads?
@@7x779 here in Australia recently an old guy came off his big fast adventure bike and nearly died. My mates came across another guy with a BMW that he couldn't pick up by himself.
@@redtobertshateshandles thanks for sharing that, it helps temper my lust and longing for a big adventure bike. My job and lifestyle doesn't allow extensive planning and group trips so I like to take spur-of-the-moment solo trips or with a passenger as time schedule and the weather allows.
Not being able to pick up a bike if you fall over takes the fun and the adventure part out of an adventure bike
Especially as you get older and weaker and lose a lot of your strength
For me I would think a Husqvarna 701 or Zuki dr650 would be ideal, except once again even after 40 years the manufacturers don't seem to have enough sense to gear them correctly. Even the 701 has a 6-speed, owner still complain that the ratios are too close and they still longing for a 7th or 8th gear on the highway
Having to spend thousands of dollars for an aftermarket transmission to be installed is absolutely ridiculous
My '96 DR650 that I bought ten years ago has been fantastic. I've put a ton of mods on it and I've put over 25,000 miles on it and it's been an amazing bike. Cogent Dynamics rear shock is fully adjustable and a stiffer spring works great. Up front I did Gold Valves and stiffer springs. It's just awesome. Future plans include the 790 big bore.
Great review. My 2005 DRZ400S has 26k miles and has been a great bike on motorcross, single-track, dirt roads and highways. It is capable of interstate speeds, but not comfortable and doesn’t have the fuel range for long distance adventure riding. The suspension is awesome, and it is probably the best dual sport bike for it’s price. I now have a KTM 790R (with cruise control), but keeping the DRZ for hardcore dirt.
2006 DR650 - done several 10 day 1500 mile mostly dirt adventures, this bike rocks. Super easy maintenance as well. Upgrade skid plate, larger tank, lights, route a spare clutch cable and you are golden!
The DR650 has always been one of my favorite bikes!
love mine its a keeper
Love mine too I might go give the tank a little hug right now.
and sniff the seat
@@TheRyadrian TMI :)
@@stephanieburger8672 :)
As a tall guy with already a heavy ADV bike for more road oriented use, this video helped me choose. I'm orienting my choice towards the DRZ 400 thanks to you.
KLR 650, DR 650 , DR-Z400 , perfect examples of road to dirt transition, the DR 650 was my pick because it does both well but neither as good as the other. offroad there are going to be instances where you simply will not cross a certain obstacle with the KLR without damaging it, the DR is going to be a challenge but you will pass with no damage . On the road as everyone knows the KLR is the comfort king , so if touring mostly highway and doing some dirt roads with a simple single trail here and there then the KLR is your bike.
If extended camping trips on backroads and mostly single trail paths and "bush tracking" is your thing with the odd one out highway trip then its DRz all the way.
As a daily commuter and adventure bike i'd throw the DRz out of the mix and lean twords the DR instead of the KLR, as the maintenance on the DR is just a tad bit simpler for commuting aswell as field repairs.
I could not decide what i wanted to do and then decided i wanted to do a mix bag of everything and there is just one of the three that ticks all the boxes and that is the DR 650.
Move along a couple of years and i started doing more local one day outings so i should probably have gotten the DRz , but the DR still does it all, a bit more effort but that is a easy trade-off for the superior highway capability it still has. I'm gonna go up 2 or so teeth on the rear sprocket once its time for replacement and im sure that is gonna make a world of a difference for my current needs ,..... well that was the idea till i broke my femoral neck and was out for a few months and discovered a new hobby , light weight 4X4-ing , bought a cheap beat up terios for the price of a DR or DRz and now i can experience nature with my daughters , i mean we go through all the shrubs big fancy 4X4's dont want to go through because they dont want to get scratches. the suzuki jimny would have been a better idea but yeh water under the bridge , the packing and camping style is more or less the same as with a bike as there is very limited space and 4 people need to pack very light , so keeping the DR for later years when the kids are teenagers and dont like me anymore , but for now i want to experience life with my kids and a light weight 4X4 with a price tag matching that of a DR and not having the fuel consumption of a old cheap V8 is the perfect thing for me , it has no diff locks so there is alot of digging , rock packing and rope pulling involved in simple outings and man is it fun !!!!
So for now i'll be a "youtube biker" , just to keep in touch with my free spirited brethren.
Good comparison and info on the 3 bikes. I might just start out with a cheaper 200 or 250 bike and then graduate to a 400 or 650. I'm 5'10" and have only ridden bikes a small amount compared to ATV/quads, so I think the 650 would be easier/more comfortable, the 400 at the dealership was at my tippy-toe limit, not sure if its adjustable much stock. I'd probably only do like 10-20% offroad anyways.
Your femoral neck femur injury sounds very rough, but good you found something else fun to do. Those lightweight 4x4s look awesome, usually end up going more places than the heavys as they'll float more over mud and such, only issue is ground clearance sometimes - and having a cheap 4x4 you can actually beat up with no regrets actually lets ya have fun. The MPG is a good point too, if you get lockers, even cheap mechanical "lunch box", it would be almost unstoppable - but a cheap $100 winch and a mount in the front and back would be great.
Loved my 650. Heavier springs and DDCs up front, Cogent shock internals in the rear. It was an awesome 3-5 day adventure bike. Comfortable and capable.
I did all on my DR. But I found that a fork brace really helped in loose rutted conditions.
I’m 60 and still love my Kaw Concours 14
Over the ten years I’ve had it I’ve dumped a ton of money into it to make it mine so I can’t even think about selling it.
I’ve wanted a dual sport forever but just couldn’t justify it. I’ve narrowed my choice clear down to the DR 650 for my age and 250 lbs. Gonna need full suspension kit. Off roading will be mild trails. I’m too old for preventable broken bones.
I’m going to shop slowly and patiently for one that someone has already lovingly dumped a wad of money on upgrades.
🤙
My son just bought a Concours 1000 a few months ago and loves it.
I'm over 60 years old and find that the limiting factor when you are older is the ability to pick up the bike when you go down. Your lower back past age 50 really gives you fits and picking up a loaded DR650 becomes quite a task, especially if you ride alone as I sometimes do. I believe the 650 is the bike for me, but as I get closer to 70 I have to make hard decisions.
I currently ride a KLX250S as its even lighter than the DRZ but would prefer the extra power (no comparison) of the DRZ. The KLX has a hard time maintaining 60 mph on a slight incline @ 5000' elevation. I'm sure that's no problem for the DRZ. It would benefit SUZUKI greatly if they added a 6th gear to the DRZ, even if they still maintained the carb instead of FI. There must be a good reason why they don't upgrade to a 6-speed as the DS riders all agree that the bike would benefit greatly.
I owned a 1991 DR350 (kicker) and wish they still offered that bike as it was a great compromise....more power than the 250's, air-cooled and comes with a 6-speed. I remember there was a 441cc kit for the 350 if power was ever an issue.
They can’t update the DRZ because it’s grandfathered in. If they updated it they would have to modify a lot for emissions. I think that’s the reason.
How come KAWASAKI was able to add FI to the KLX250S in 2018? They didn't even have to increase the price significantly. I believe the DRZ stills sells and they're still making a profit on it, so why change a thing? I still have hope that they will update it and surprise us all!
@@bradjacobs1844 because its a 250...
They are both Great, I have put over 30,000 miles on each (and 15,000 on xr650L). Can go back and forth all day on the pros and cons, but in the end unless you have trouble with the height of the DRZ, or plan on riding more than 250 miles per day, the safety and time made up in the dirt outweigh the deficit on the street. Most people always trying to make their heavy, poor handling dualsport bike better in the dirt (suspension, weight, etc.) Get the better dirtbike, and put on a good seat, windscreen, and gearing (taller) to make it better on the street, cheaper mods, much safer, and more fun for the time you are in the dirt.
I personally own a DRZ-400 great bike for street, trail, sliding down the pavement at 52mph all great
I bought a used drz400 for $2600 3 years ago and it's been awesome since. Very reliable and fun
I have five bikes including a Beta 300rr which is the bike I ride the most, also an xr600r, a klx250, a drz400 and a kdx200. If I was to sell all my bikes but one, I'd keep the drz. It's just the most versatile bike I have. Not to mention it's set up for adventure with luggage, an oversize gas tank and all the engine mods except high compression and stroked. It does well enough on the single tracks and good on the highway. It has plenty of power and is very dependable. I have 27,000 miles on the clock and it runs flawlessly and I'm not easy on it. I like to go fast on the dirt. So yeah, drz all day.
Both bikes have that "japanese thing" that makes you trust the machines you are riding.
@pablo gonzalez Lmao yeah. People see those overweight and underpowered bikes with poor peripherals and call it "Japanese trustworthiness" when in fact they won't break because they don't perform in the first place.
Angel K.N I’ll take buying old and slow on a budget over no adventure at all.
@Donald Trump lmao destroyed them
Haters gon hate. :D
Artur G I got that Japanese Thing, and now it hurts when I pee...
I had a DRZ Supermoto for commuting and then I switched to a dr650 Supermoto for commuting and it made a hell of a difference!!, for the street I recommended dr650 hands down.....
does the dr650 feels heavy as a supermoto?
@@josechimal1358 definitely a little heavier but torque is great
Bought my drz400s right off the floor last February and couldn't be happier. It was a close call between the DR and the DRZ, what sold me was the weight. I commute 50 miles a day but I also ride single track and it does both well. Thanks for the great videos!
Yep agree, weight for me sealed the deal, and wheel size. Gearing was solved with 15/44, end of the day its more touring than enduro.
Commuting 50 miles a day on a Drz Isn’t bad round-trip, but if you want to do any kind of adventure riding long-distance riding you’re really gonna start to heat a DRC 400
Just bought the 650. Low end grunt for me...tractors awesome. Suspension, pegs, bars, etc. can all be modded but modding for lower seat height is not always optimum. I'm shorter so chose the 650 vs. trying to mod the 400 so I could use more feet plant on the trail. There are youtube vids out there showing guys taking the 650 everywhere offroad...single track, climbs, etc. It's quite capable. Having a little more for the on road also makes it nice to get to where you want to go. I had a nice WR before and had to mod suspension to lower it. Have to admit I love the tractor now vs. the winding it up when you want the power. If I have my way...this 650 in the garage plus adding another dirt only bike (coming soon hopefully) is the perfect fit for me.
I have taken that DR650 into some gnarly places. very capable and fun, no doubt! Thanks for your thoughts. - Justin
Conclusion, take a 650 cc engine and stick it in the DR-Z frame.
I have the DR650, my son has the DRZ400E, and I've often wished for the 650's engine in the 400's frame!
הפוך גוטה
@@omer426
✝
@@merrickx 🇮🇱
Makes you wonder why Suzuki hasn’t done.
I have a pretty much stock DRZ400 , ride trails all over Colorado and have a blast.
Muzzleloader 77 where at in Colorado? I’m new here and currently live in the springs. Do you know where he’s riding at in the video?
A great review of both strengths and weaknesses. Finally someone who does not add 5,000 bucks in changes to either bike as well.
thanks! - Justin
I upgrade my DR650s with some used parts on the cheap, and can sell the stock parts to recoup costs. I got 5gal tanks for $100-$150. I got skids for $50. I got a GSXR muff for free. Used DR-Z forks and shocks can be adapted to a DR650. RM or KTM suspension can be fitted too. DRs don't necessarily need racks to haul luggage either. A duffel straps to the rear fender and seat just fine. So do rackless bags like Giant Loop or MoskoMoto. Tank panniers and tank bag work well too. Green Chile offers rackless options for luggage too.
You forgot about the biggest advantage of the DR650! It has a nice wide ratio 5spd, the DRZ400 has a very narrow range 5spd. It sucks on the highway, and you cant fix it with a sprocket change because 1st gear will be way too high. I originally owned a DRZ400 and switched to a DR650 because of this. If you were just doing small stints on paved backroads to get between trails (AKA dual sporting), it is fine. If you need to ride significant miles on the road (aka adventure riding) it's a huge drawback.
This is the comment that I needed to hear to decide between the two bikes. I am looking for something simple that could fill in for my KTM 890 Adventure S if it is down for mods or repairs. I routinely ride a 1000 mile loop so I need to be able to pull a 500 mile day on mostly freeway. This trumps my desire for the better off-road capabilities of the DRZ.
Exactly if you have to ride over 50 miles on pavement to get to your trails at highway speeds you’re going to be tired and drained by the time you get to the trails. DRZ is great if you’re gonna throw it on the trailer and drive to the trail, but if it’s oh want a do it all bike DR 650 the best.
2012 drz400s is awesome 50/50 bike! I was shopping these two 3 years ago and could not for the life of me make up my mind. I found this one with both sets of wheels and tires, hand guards, top storage box, various sprocket sizes, led lights, fender eliminator, fmf exhaust, airbox mod and filter and jet kit and bigger tank. I ride to work daily 25 miles. I built a woods/mx track at my house and it does it all with ease. Your videos helped me make the choice and i would make the same again. If youre on the fence and you do much off roading, take the drz. Its a street legal dirt bike that can rip the trails with the 450s.
I love my DRZ, my buddy loves his DR. Win-win
I agree! - Justin
He failed to mention while talking about the transmission that the DR has a much better spread between gears than the DRZ. The DR will run all day long at 75mph and feel relaxed doing it while the DRZ is screaming at 65-70mph.
Dave Butler and that's why I sold my DRZ for a dr you're 100% correct
different sprocket is a cheap easy 10 min fix
Then would have no ball sacks. @@SteviePeeOutDoorLife
I thought he did mention the DRZ has a different RPM range
My drz is bone stock does 105mph I Cruze on the highway at 80 mph, I just changed the back sprocket. I didnt even need to cut the chain
I've had them both. Put 5,000 miles on the DRZ and over 50,000 on the DR. Once modded I took my DR anywhere off road the DRZ would go. The DRs gear ratios are much better for the road. DR gets my vote for versatility but the DRZ is a fine bike.
T30 I sold my DRZ for a Dr and I never looked back
I sold the DR and bought a KTM690R. It’s a nice bike that’s faster, has ABS, and has a much better suspension but no where near as versatile as the DR except for the better KTM stator for running heated gear. On the Hwy the DR is better than my 2016 690. Pre-2020 690Rs are buzzy.at hwy speeds. New ones are suppose to have an extra counter balancer for smoother performance. The DR is simply a great all around package.
@@T30-z5w and half the money compared to the ktm's....from Wyoming USA 🔫🤠
@@T30-z5w i agree
I ended up going with the DR for riding 2up on occasion. Love my bike 🤙🏻
I chose the DR650. With a 30" inseam, EVERYTHING'S too tall, so I lowered it with Soupy's adjustable links and had the front and rear suspensions totally upgraded and rebuilt (also removing 3/4" from the kickstand). "My" top riding speed is around 70-75 MPH, so I could afford to go to a 14 tooth front sprocket - I had the room off the top end. I ditched the factory "Death Wings" for some Kenda K270's for adequate dirt grab, yet good road grip, added a variety of protection (skid plate, case guards, front sprocket case guard, frame guards and bark busters), lowered/added wider foot pegs, added some Steg Pegz in place of the buddy pegs, upgraded and raised the handlebars, upgraded the headlight to a halogen H-4, protected it with a grill guard and added some auxiliary lights for visibility. I don't go on "long" rides, so I kept the factory tank, but added a pair of Rotopax in case the situation arose. For comfort I added a Sargents seat and capped it off with a sheepskin (yeah, that's right). It's so comfortable, every 5 miles I have to stop, get off and let my ass laugh!🤣 I prepared it for "overnighters" with pannier racks, a rear fender rack, a tank bag and a Tusk front fender bag. A bigger tool kit was a must. Next on the agenda: carb kit, opening the air box, adding a complementing exhaust (specifics to be determined) and a steering damper. If I had it to do all over again, I'd still choose the DR650. It's been nothing less than a total blast. I ride (about) 70% off road; of that, 10-20% intermediate single trails. Nothing real tough. It's perfect for my neck of the woods.🤙
For my 650 i installed 790 big bore bigger cam add headers bigger back sprocket man i love this bike
@@samuelbowlin8338 When you added the bigger rear sprocket, did you keep the 15 front? I'd also like to hear what header you used. Thanks for your post.
@@kentuckyjustice1408 I used fmf powerbombheader.Procycle set me up .I also went to a heavier chain
@@samuelbowlin8338 A guy has to lay down some coin for an FMF system, front to tail. But the folks who have them rave about 'em. Hats off to you, bro. Sounds like you have a keeper.
I've been thinking of these bikes to replace my KLR. This is the perfect vid to help me decide what I like.
Find a used DR650 on the cheap. Put on RMZ450 forks, change out the CV carb for a TM 40 and change out that crappy rear shock and you're kickin butt with one of the best ADV bikes there is. Bigger aftermarket tank, better seat, and a few other little things that's up to preference to make it perfect for you.
Been wanting a good comparison video on these 2 bikes. Well done!
I bought a brand new 2017 drz400sm in early 2018 and have been kitting it out since. I think I'm finally done now lol!
I think the 400 does a great job of pretending to be a dirt bike and a road bike. Best of both worlds.
I agree! great for Adventure riding! - Justin
I bought a brand new 2001 drz in 2003. It was awesome. Loved it. Very fun on and off road. Wheelie monster. I went everywhere on one wheel. Cops didn't like it too much.
LOL, yea, cops chase DRZ like dogs chase paperboys. Especially the Motards :) Cops ignore me on my DR650 like I'm riding to deliver the mail.
With the price difference between the two bikes, you could get the 650 and upgrade suspension to something way better than the 400 for around same price. 650 is the better buy, 400 is overpriced.
Bought my very 1st drz 400 two wks ago, i am thrilled with it, got some new tires an rear lowering linkage on the way as well.
DRZ400s rider here since 2007. I haven’t modded much. Handlebar risers, hand protectors, luggage rack and rear fender eliminator. I gotta put a pipe on it and maybe 3x3 mod
the DR650 is lacking a bit in stock configuration but with simple modifications it becomes one hell of a machine. Mine has a Pro Taper bar, stiffer rear spring and rebound shock setting. The front forks have stiffer straight rate spring instead of progressive rate, the fork oil is a heavier weight, and it has fully adjustable cartridge emulators to control fluid flow on compression and rebound, as well as added pre load. my ground clearance is nearly 14 inches. I also installed a high compression piston, the carb is jetted and needle shimmed, and it has a slipon T-4 ProCircuit (way too loud even with a dense re-pack) The SOHC still offers 4 valves for the single cylinder, but has rocker arms so valve adjustments are a breeze. Its a great platform to start with and they've been produced from 1996 until 2019 as far as I know.
I'm about to put the straight 350lb fork springs and 350lb rear shock hoping to get the bike higher. I'm 6'1" 240lbs and this 650 currently feels like a small toy with power. Also lowering the pegs 2" and raising the bars 2". I'm hoping it will feel like a dirtbike after all this and not like a Harley Softtail. 😂
I commute to work almost every day on my drz 400s and go play in the desert when i can. A few months ago i did a 3 days trip from vegas to UT, camping (bushcraft style) it was fun. But loaded with gear, the bike was sometimes very unstable at highway speed, i was mostly doing 75 mph. I have a top case (harborfreight gun case) 2 saddle bags ((rigg gear adv soft bags) plus more stuff on top of them. I had no issues going off road loaded like this, only problem i encountered was when i went over brian head, elevation was super high vs my jetting for vegas.
You can add the DRZ400 clutch arm to the DR650 to lighten the pull and expand the friction zone. It’s slightly longer. You will need to hit it with a thin file for about 5 minutes for the cable to fit, but it’s an easy, worthwhile mod.
Tbh I think if you have a drz400 or a drz650 you are in possession of a an amazing bike that gives an insanely high smile per dollar ratio.
I did get another DR650 just getting it broke in 1350 km so far put the Acerbis 5 gal tank on as well as skid plate, heated grips, rear rack for the Givi 46 liter top box, center stand and a few other things. It will be my main ride, going to look in to changing the foot pegs and better lights, This is a keeper, one of the best all round bikes out there.
Got both. Originally had a DRZ S. Revalved suspension and heavier springs. Good on dirt. Buzzy and not as stable on the highway. S motor is OK with FCR and exhaust. Sold it when I found a mint DR 650. Race Tech emulators in forks with Gold valves in shock really transforms ride off road. Again, heavier springs. S.C. seat, lowered pegs, Protaper bars etc. Built an 18" rear wheel. Can pretty much do as DRZ on dirt, but more satisfying on road.
Found a lightly ridden DRZ400E for all dirt days. Lighter than the S with more power. Wish I could plate it in Ca...
There used to be a federal form for adding lights, horn, that California accepts. 20 years ago kind of thing though.
Love both of my DR650s.
Riding across Australia the DR650 all day long.
If you're in the market for a DR 650, don't get anything older than 1996..before then, they were just awful bikes, both on and off-road. I had a 1992 DR 650 as my first bike. Learnt to ride in sand with it, but it was just a pig of a bike, and underpowered for it's weight. Now I have a DRZ400S from 2000, which have a few mods on it. 440 big bore kit, hot cams, 3x3 mod, yoshi full system FCR 39 mm carb, ACT wide ratio gear kit and ohlins suspension in the rear. I love this bike! It's a keeper. I also have a motard kit for it, when the urge for paved twisty roads becomes too big :)
I have one of each. Comparable hp but 650 has large torque advantage. I'm 6 foot tall 245 lbs I never choose the 400. The 650 feels more stable.
I was on the fence 2 years ago in between those 2 bikes and I picked the DRZ400sm because of its superior suspension, which on the SM is from previous generations RMZ450. Just swap the front 17 inches wheel for a 21 inches with knobbies and voila!
I don't like rebuilding carbs but I'll take the bush pig over a EFI alternative any day just because of the simplicity of the whole thing. Only bike I've had that's easier to work on is the TW.
also Chip shortage right now!.....Tuner chipsets are VERY hard to come by if you need to mod EFI bikes..... major back order
Have had both and would choose the drz400 everytime.
Good comparison. My DR560SE cracked the cylinder head cover almost immediately after purchase and lost the top end dramatically (cam journal failure) at around 68,000 miles. I'm thinking of the four hundo as a replacement. With some simple mods the 650 made a perfect commuter. I think that the 400 is a slightly higher spec bike that should theoretically last longer with similar maintenance requirements.
Go for a DRZ400 rolling chassis with a DR650SE motor in it = Best of both worlds
I had a 92 DR250 and it was alot of fun! I , mabie one day I'll be able to get a DR650 and bring back the sweet memories with extra power.
I still have a 93 dr250. It May be my favorite bike. By far more reliable then my drz and ktm
That’s an honest and unbiased comparison. Cut and dry , you summed up the key points and I think in terms of what dual sport riders value most , to cover a broad spectrum of riding skills and different types of riders , these two bikes could fulfill the needs of most people. Personally, I’m leaning towards the DRZ400S, I just wish it were fuel injection and a six speed transmission( and a diet to shed a few pounds) it would be the ultimate dual sport bike ever.
As a DRZ owner, the biggest thing I would change is 6 speed. Carb is no big deal (fcr is probably my next mod), yeah it's a little heavy, but it's also cheap and bullet proof. I just would love one more gear
JollyBruin,Juney Shober -Lighter 6 speeder EFI Are built in Austria , maybe Italy and or Sweden . More money at every interval ,start to finish!
@@eflanagan1921 As it turns out, I might be adding a lighter, fewer stroke, 6 speed, but still carbed bike here in the next week... That will be more strictly off-road than dual sport though
E Flanagan I’m not opposed to paying a higher price for higher quality 😉
Can you image a DR650 with EFI, modern suspension, and a 6th gear :) Keep everything else the same, air cooled, especially the body, and you'll have yourself another 30 years of WINNING.
Yup would be nice, but its grandfathered as is, adding EFI would force it to have to comply with current DOT/EPA emissions and sound requirements, it would have to have a CAT, SMOG/Air Pump and a lot more noise reduction. This is why Honda (XR650L), Kawasaki (KLR650) and Suzuki have kept these bike more or less as is for nearly 30 years. The KLR did change dramatically in 2008 but that was 99% chassis, suspension, cosmetic, the motor was left almost unchanged for this reason.
There is an efi conversion kit out there. Requires some tuning but it’s what we got.
I would definitely trade my SM wheels in for dual sport wheels on my DRZ400SM. I am very limited in where i can go with 17'' wheels with street tires. I would love to do some adventure rides this year and take it into the wild.
I love my 2020 DRZ400s!! Perfect for me. Having a blast!
Not even a contest... shim adjusted valves vs wrench, cooling system vs not, wider ratio trans.. low end torque. larger riding layout. Room under the sprocket cover for more teeth. (60mpg capable). I was a mechanic at a Suzuki dealer for 30 years... DRZs are great, but if I'm gonna be somewhere between bumf%$k and hells a hole I'm going with the 650.
agree 100% - same for honda- the aircooled 350-650 where the best ....
Yea dude, they're just tools for different jobs. the DRZ is great for tight trails, mud and like
Amen brotha...I agree completely!
@Philip Thomas a busted hose or smashed radiator can leave you stranded, a stuck thermostat will leave you stranded, and a broken pump impeller will leave you stranded.
Air Cooled means there's no cooling system, so in a harsh environment it can prove more practical and dependable.
However a liquid cooled bike has a huge number of advantages, and for a daily ridden street commuter I would absolutely choose liquid cooled. On a light duty, occasional trail ridden dual sport I would choose liquid cooled. But for a mountainous, treacherous, cross country adventure bike I may lean towards air cooled.
well said
DR650 is right for me, with a 10.5:1 compression piston and opened up a little more.
I like these comparison vids. Keep em comin!
Had the DR 650 the only thing I did not like was the small gas tank. and did not want to put a plastic one on, But I miss that bike so much thinking of getting another and going with the black IMS 4.9 liter tank. I want it for dirt roads and light trail riding, at 71 yr I like slow trail riding and the way it is set up does pretty good, will also change the tires. Went from hard packed gravel doing 80 km and hit some soft sand, the bike did ok but just ok was a little scary. So that will be 3 in the stable a Suzuki S 40 great to get the feel of the wind in your chest also fun on windy roads., Vesays X 300 with trekker side bags and top box 33 and 46 liter. great for long tours, and shopping, the DR 650 for hitting the dirt roads and light trails and day rids The versys also great on the windy roads and running through the gears.
Very well done. All good to know, tested upgrades. As we are now in the world of 15k- 25k bikes that still need upgrades , I would much rather build my own to my needs.
The DRZ and the old DR 650 are still able to do anything the BMW's can do..maybe better and parts are still reasonable.
Priced out BMW or Ducati parts lately?
Yay for Suzuki and Rocky for the truth, not a sales pitch.
No metal soundtrack, no MTV
editing, no jive. Love it. Do more and more please.
I started in 1971 when a DT250 Yamaha kicked ass..50,years ago. I wanted inside info then and haven't quit yet! Go Rocky Mountain MC ATV
Nice video, I appreciated your strong useful information.for me No more highway long drive long trips over varied terrain then take the 650 , the DR 650 is a Tiger tank, bomb proof ..the DR650 is the newest and technologically advanced Japanese air-cooled big single, strong and easy to maintain and there are a ton of parts available in North America at very low cost.If you like to play in the dirt and fun so take the DRZ.
Ok I want a DRZ400 now. I don't think I'd get the 650, based on this vid, but the 400 seems awesome
I have a 2020 DR 650.... don't do much interstate driving... I put a 14 tooth sprocket on the front ...it's perfect now...
The DRZ is not made for jumping i learned that the hard way. I think i bounced higher after landing than i did jumping the hill.
aech thrasher haha I’d have to disagree, maybe you just need to drop a little weight off it an revalue the suspension with heavier springs
Adjust your rebound. I jump my drz all the time. Only about 6 feet of air under it, but handles it very well. I have stiffer springs installed at both ends too. Over 30,000 miles on it. Runs and rides like new.
Hahahaaa
Nice
MY SM did OK
XR 650 r please! Make Honda great again!
I would love one, but the kick starter kills it for an ADV bike. hard to carry luggage that gets in the way of the kicker... - Justin
Gavin Bjerke you give up a lot . Carrying, passengers. Mines got all hp upgrades & smile factor is high.
of course, new xr650L should have FI and electric start. I hope it has slight lower seat height as well.
A new XR500L with 6 speed is nice too
Xr650l is electric start.
I had a beautiful xr650r street legal honda power up kit but I couldn't kick it anymore because hip problem. Now I have the 650L. Still a nice bike but nowhere close to the 650r.
If anyone read this whole thing you probably need a hobby.
Great comparison/review of your awesome bike builds! One thing you didn't mention (regular viewers already know), is that you are a pretty light-weight guy. Many of us riders are going to be pushing 100 lbs on you, and that has to be figured into bike choice if you want more grunt from your bike, when you need it. I've looked at both of these a lot (currently riding a DR 350) but still hopeful that Yamaha will come out with something that is a happy medium, like a WR 450 R!! :-)
If you will be selling a 96-99 Dr350 street legal , I am very interested !
Thanks for the interest, and yes it is a '99 SE model with low mileage and some nice upgrades. I will however, be hanging onto it for the foreseeable future! ATB, and ride safe! @@eflanagan1921
I am a lightweight. Even then the DR650 needed stiffer springs. If you are a bigger guy, plan on springs for both bikes....Justin
Good, useful, practical information. Thanks Justin! I'm new to the moto world and this is the best channel I've found.
That's awesome, thank you for the feedback!
It depends if you want to do a lot of highway get the dr 650, but if you want more off-road with less weight get the drz 400. You'll be amazed, here in Texas sometimes the speed limit is 80 MPH, the Dr 650 can do that all day.
Great review. I love my DRZ, I'd love the top end speed of the 650 but after hearing about the suspension (which I do a lot of technical trail riding) I'm glad I have the 400.
Comparing these bikes against each other is like comparing a Cadillac to a Monte Carlo! I have a dr650 the only issue I can fathom is it could do with some kind of extra cooling for trail riding, but I really haven't had much of a problem except for going back and forth on my driveway. As for the suspension I don't understand how you say there is no adjustment, but you are probably talking about newer models. Mine is a 94, original rear shock had a 4 position ring for the spring. Now has coil over style threaded shock and plan to at some time get the one with dampening adjustment. So the aftermarket will give you a whole lot of adjustment! Also when i was looking online for a clutch, rocky mountian didn't pop up as a site for my 650. As a mater of fact revzilla doesn't even list a DR650 for parts, neither does cycle gear. Found a clutch from Partzilla was the only place other than junkbay(ebay) or amazon, sorry if anyone out there trusts either of those sites I dont!
The 400 benefits from one more tooth on the front sprocket. Installation is a little tricky and tight, but possible.
I did that. Absolutely good.
I’m a bigger guy 6’1”
And 245lbs. The DR650 is perfect for me. Halls my ass anywhere I want to go. I did have the Shock rebuilt for my weight $200. money well spent. Used market the DR is about $500 less then the DRZ despite being a bigger bike. You could buy it and almost have front and back suspension tuned in for you for the difference
I've had 2 DRZ's , love the bike
The DR can be shaved to about the same curb weight as the DR-Z400S...320lb. Add a big bore and cam, install adjustable suspension, throw on some DOT knobs, and a shaved DR is then an offroad beast that can also bomb slab all day at 80MPH.
How do you get it to 320?
The DR650 is a street bike that you can take off road. The DRZ400 is a dirt bike that you can ride on the street. FWIW, on my '03 DR650 I have lower pegs, a wider seat, GSXR muffler and a FCR carb, if Suzuki would do similar upgrades the DR650 sales would skyrocket! Or maybe come out with a twin cylinder V-Strom 450... :-)..
I really see 3 types of riding. Paved roads, unpaved roads, and offroad. If you look at it like this, the DR650 is an Unpaved-Roads bike that can do pavement and offroad also.
I Leave in Swiss , and i have a old DR - 650 , y love my bike ,
I looove my DRZ400. But if I ever went for a 650, I'd pick the XR650L over the DR650.
Have a drz 400 since 2002. . Love that bike
I had a DRZ400 great bike never had a any problems with it . Went to cape york australia.
Love them both
I’ve had a dr650se since 08 it’s a super bike . I have a Vstrom and a TW 200 , my dr is my favorite
Exactly what i was looking for, thank you! Subscribed!
Wow, great discovery. Grateful for the content regarding these two bikes I’m interested in.
I'm about to buy the 400. I found one with 2600mi for $3900. Am pretty stoked as this will be my 1st enduro. Very pleased by what I'm hearing.
It's a dual sport not an enduro bike.
Miss that west coast riding! My weapon was a 500 Exc
Suzuki Dr 650 cc is like a highlander the immortal of motorcycles
Straight up answers you'd never get at a dealership.
Thanks!
Great great great + fab delivery. Like listening to a fellow Englishman when we were still educated and polite i.e. in the 1950s. Top marks Sir!
Hey, thanks! - Justin
DR all the way, I love mine, bulletproof machine
When the mods are done it is a bullet!
exactly
I've ridden the DRZ400s and I own a 2013 stock DR650. The 650 is more like a Jeep Wrangler or a Tractor, and the 400 is more like a 4x4 Nissan pickup or a dirtbike. The 400 engine runs a bit smoother but it doesn't have quite the torque... when you shift the 650, you immediately feel the torque squat the rear and get you accelerating quicker. You don't feel a bunch of but squatting torque right away with the 400, but if you're not 300lbs like me, it will move you around quickly. For my weight and size, I'm glad I have the extra Torque. But the 400 seems to have a smoother acceleration thru each gear. Shifting on the 650 is a bit more "clunky" like an old 1985 stickshift F150. The 400 shifts more like a 10 year old 6 speed Mazda. Power is just a hair more on the 650 which you'll come to love on the highway, but the lighter, nimbler, weight and suspension of the 400 feels more like a dirtbike on single track. The 650's torque is a lot more enjoyable. Period. 650 can easily pull a 300lb guy up a hill in straight light, but if there's a lot of bumping around the 400 being 60 lbs won't wear you out as quickly if you're having to put put your feet down and stabilize often.. The 400 sits higher, is lighter and more nimble feeling and seems to have less vibration thru the higher revs. You really feel the huge 650 single "chugging" and "thumping". I take a lot more spills on my DR650 offroad than I ever did with my YZ125 when I was 18 and fit. (now I'm 35 and fat lol)
Was the 400 annoying on the slab? I'm trying to decide between a few bikes. The orange ones in this range all have some serious issues on-top of the already $$$ pricetag. That only leaves a few options and my short ass makes it even fewer, lol. I'm leaning to the 650 for highway use but the better 400 suspension calls to me. Man, why is this so hard lol.
Spills happen, especially with heavy bikes. You lean them a bit too far, your foot sinks into the sand and it's over lol. I kinda wish I tried smaller bikes since I jumped straight into a 420lb bike and took it offroad(at least this way no matter which bike I switch to it'll feel light by comparison).
@@0xsergy I'm 285lbs and do 70/30 pavement so I went with the DR. If I was 200lbs and did 40/60 offroad I'd go with the DRZ.
Awesome video, I always wondered why they were the same price when the 650 seemed like more bike. The suspension on the drz is what I want!
I just own both of them, great bike's , the 400 is best in the dirt.
This is exactly the video I was looking for. Went to Suzukis website because I cant afford an adv bike but got the idea a dual sport would be a good everyday commuter for me that I could strap to my campervan for a backup ride/fun bike, and I couldn't understand why the 400 cost more than the 650. I have a fiancee whose not terribly comfortable sitting on our scooter back....is there any kind of aftermarket seat for these types of bikes that can provide a sissy bar or rest of any kind for the pure psychological comfort? I suppose if there was a good way to attach a large luggage device that might work as well. I couldn't find a whole lot of info on aftermarket firrings for these guys
Seat Concepts and Sergeant both make really nice, expensive comfy sets for both bikes. The Dr.Z is more expensive as it is water cooled, and is more costly to produce than the Dr. which is air cooled with an oil cooler. Both Tusk and Nelson Rigg make great soft bags for dirt bikes - so you won't need the extra weight of panniers. If you plan on doing more off road, city commutes and only occasional free/highway, the 400 is your better choice. It is excellent in the dirt, but abject misery on the open road for anything over an hour or so. It's too light.
If you plan on using the bike on the road or highway - the 650 is your guy. It will however suffer off road in the gnarly stuff as it's stock suspension is, well, sus. It sucks to pick up as well - it's too heavy.
That 40lb weight difference makes the Dr way better on the highway with a dirt penalty, and that same 40lbs makes the Dr.Z way better on the dirt with a freeway penalty. Also tires make a MASSIVE difference. I'd rather take a 650 with MT21 tires off road than a 400 with trailwings.
There's no unicorn machine and no free lunch. Pick your poison and choose your weapon. Hope that helps.
Cheers!
Excellent comparison; balanced, informative and useful. Toss in the DL650 and you’d thoroughly Suzuki the segment; the underdogs have more bark ‘n bite than the other manufacturers would have us believe.
Thanks! I wouldn't mind spending more time on the DL650, but it is designed more for street than I like. I like the dirt too much. No doubt the DL650 would be way better for the guy who rides more street and just a little on the dirt roads. - Justin
The problem with the DR650 is you've got to spend $5K in upgrades to get it to the "Mighty 650" I hear stories about. I'm about to drop my first $2,500 to try to get it to actually feel somewhat like a dirtbike and capable of long adventures.
At that point, u may as well get a Ktm 690r
You know UA-cam is not American. So having all your measurements and stats in metric as well would be a very welcomed addition for the rest of the world to understand and appreciate your effort into making these videos.
Love both of my DR’s!!!
Race Tech cartridge emulators in my DRs forks and gold valve in the shock makes a world of difference. Adjusting the forks is a pain, but now possible.
+1
It takes some tinkering to get the emulators just right, but a fun process if you understand suspension.
Rear shock just wont keep up off-road without a re-valve.