KLX300SM Test Ride and First Impressions + Kawasaki KLX300 vs Suzuki DRZ400

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  • Опубліковано 12 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 133

  • @Dave-sw2dm
    @Dave-sw2dm 3 роки тому +12

    My dual sport progression was '01 DRZ400S, '08 KLR650, '12 KLX250S, '19 Himalayan, and '17 Van Van. I added the KLX300SM as a companion bike with the Van Van. The Van Van is my off-road bike, while the SM is my all roads bike. I bring both on camping trips and get to explore the curvy roads and forest trails. My days of fast and loose are behind me. Now I have a lot of fun at sane speeds.

  • @thatoneguy9437
    @thatoneguy9437 2 роки тому +19

    It blows me away that people always question the lack of fuel guage. I grew up on dirt bikes. I can't imagine wanting or needing a fuel guage. Wondering how much fuel you have? Come to a stop and rock left and right to give it the slosh test.

  • @MagnusIgnisLacerta
    @MagnusIgnisLacerta 2 роки тому +2

    New rider here looking for info on his first bike and every time i look up a review for a bike im interested in i keep finding your channel covering it. just wanted to say super thanks for all this helpful info you've given me.

  • @Jeff-Vader_head_of_catering
    @Jeff-Vader_head_of_catering 3 роки тому +18

    Based on what you've said here, this does sound like a good beginner to intermediate bike.
    But I hope Kawasaki is paying attention, because for those of us with an inner "Hooligan", I want a KLX 650SM!!!

    • @carlgriffith4660
      @carlgriffith4660 3 роки тому +6

      I have been saying the same thing!!! If this had been a KLX650SM, I would have been at the dealership the day it came out to buy it. I really think Kawasaki missed the mark not doing this with the 650 motor. I will keep dreaming and hope Kawasaki hears us.

    • @Jeff-Vader_head_of_catering
      @Jeff-Vader_head_of_catering 3 роки тому

      @@carlgriffith4660 Preach. 🤜

    • @Heritagepostfarms
      @Heritagepostfarms 2 роки тому

      I second this

    • @keldonator
      @keldonator 2 роки тому

      I also agree, I imagine they would struggle keeping the weight down doing that though

    • @animecontent520
      @animecontent520 Рік тому

      450 or even the 250 motocross engine would make the klx an effing blast. Needs about 10 more hp

  • @JCrozier1
    @JCrozier1 3 роки тому +12

    Looks like a pretty cool machine. I love how simple and easy my dr200 is. It has considerably less power than any of the stuff you talked about, but I already own it, which is a giant thumbs up for me.

  • @ronny-drz
    @ronny-drz 3 роки тому +7

    Dork, looks like you had a lot of fun on the test ride - and thanks for all of the comparison points with the DRZ! Methinks there is a spot in your garage for the KLX in the near future :) PS my badge is green now :) Cheers, Ronny

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому +1

      It's pretty nice, but not convincing me to make a switch just yet

  • @waysuno8506
    @waysuno8506 2 роки тому

    Bought a klx300sm...arrives in march...im in Canada....its my first bike the end words reassured me, glad you think its a great first bike.

  • @joelstephens8708
    @joelstephens8708 3 роки тому +2

    After riding the drz, I became a fan, big fan. It's the happiest of mediums, weight, power, fun. If the new 300s had that, fuel injection, and six gears we could be talking

    • @Bikes_N_Adventure
      @Bikes_N_Adventure 29 днів тому

      The new 300’s are EFI, and use 6 speed gear boxes 🤘🏼

  • @MOEMUGGY
    @MOEMUGGY 2 роки тому +3

    Still almost no aftermarket support for the KLX300 or the CRF300 fuel tanks. IMS and Acerbis have really dropped the ball on these two bikes. IMS gave the KLX a .7 gal increase for $400, and they're still taking pre-orders almost a year later for a .5 gal larger tank for the CRF. It looks like neither bike will ever have much more than a 150 mile range, even after an expensive upgraded tank. A lot of good fuel injection and 6 speeds does you if you can't get there.

  • @ryannafe9252
    @ryannafe9252 2 роки тому

    I tried to find one of these locally but there were none to be had in the entire metro area and any dealerships in a 75 mile radius. So I went with a brand new 2021 DR-Z400SM. Excellent bike. Old school looks and technology, but plenty of performance. It’s no highway cruiser, but in town and on 55mph country roads, it’s a real nimble and easy to manage machine with plenty of power.
    Cruising around town in 3rd gear at 25mph, give it some throttle and you’re up to 50-55 in like two seconds. It’s WAY faster around town than any car I’ve come across.

  • @KenpachiZarakiX
    @KenpachiZarakiX 3 роки тому +2

    The KLX300SM is a fun bike. I would definitely buy one if momma would let me have one. But my the DRZ is still more fun with that little bit of extra power.

  • @vtrack1963
    @vtrack1963 3 роки тому +8

    Nice of Kawasaki to let you do the video; Yamaha doesn’t as you said. I had the opportunity to sit on both the KLX300 and the SM version. The seat height on both is very friendly. I was glad you compared the power to the DRZ. Was the bike any smoother in 6th gear at highway speeds than the DRZ in 5th gear? I’m looking forward to the Kawasaki demo event headed my way at the end of the month.

  • @Wabbit1961
    @Wabbit1961 2 роки тому

    They did a Kawasaki demo day here in Titusville, Florida about 2 months ago. Like you, I was impressed with the variety of bikes they offered to demo. No ZX-14 or Concours, but a good variety. I started on the 900RS. BEAUTIFUL MACHINE. in every way. All it needs is a windscreen. I rode the Versys 650, the KLR 650 (TWICE), and the KLX300 sm. That KLX300 was a BLAST! I'll probably get one. I ride a 2020 Ninja 650. I downgraded from the Ninja 1000. Lighter and way more fun. Although they did have a new Ninja 1000 to test ride I didn't see the point since I'd owned two before. Cruise control is a nice touch though. I might be swayed to get another. But yeah, that KLX300 was the most fun I'd had all day. Ringing it's neck out and listening to that wide open pipe... Lol. I'm 6'2" and it was comfortable. I did stand up I on it a few times and it was ok. Personally, I wouldn't be off road much so I wouldn't get risers. The brakes on that thing are AWESOME! I did a stopie! Between you and me I would buy the KLR650 over the Versys any day of the week. I rode the touring model KLR. That bike is only $9k!!! The Versys doesn't even start at that price! Very comfortable on the street too.
    The KLX300sm has tubeless tires. I believe so does the KLX300. The KLX300 is an inch taller in the seat. The bars are higher. Actually softer road ride than the 300sm if you put street tires on it. But tire choice is limited on the larger front wheel.

  • @M7hero
    @M7hero 3 роки тому +12

    I love the KLX and the CRF but wish they had power like the DRZ

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому +2

      Me too.

    • @brianj4543
      @brianj4543 3 роки тому +1

      Do what I did buy a SWM 300R one more HP than DRZ and 25Kg lighter and is a tall bike like the DRZ good for my hieght 6ft3. The KYB suspension is great and heaps of value for the money

    • @Tommy-iv4cd
      @Tommy-iv4cd 3 роки тому +2

      Drz all day

    • @getdealtwithquick
      @getdealtwithquick 3 роки тому +1

      @@brianj4543 Definitely overlooked bikes. And so is the GPX 300. For folks who need better dealer support and want a detuned 300 w longer service intervals for trail riding, it's hard to beat the KLX.

    • @M7hero
      @M7hero 3 роки тому +1

      @@brianj4543 SWM is awesome but not available for me
      Their dual sport X is such a beast

  • @robertborker179
    @robertborker179 2 роки тому +3

    I wish the fuel tank on the KLX300 were larger, but I'm pretty sure that's the route I'm going to go.
    I was considering the Honda CRF300L, but the extremely squishy suspension killed it for me.
    Of the reviews I've seen comparing the two, all of them have said that the power is excellent on the KLX300 and the suspension is really good, especially compared to the CRF300L.

  • @clarkpitts5393
    @clarkpitts5393 3 роки тому +19

    All I want is sixth gear on my dizzer... Cheers!

  • @jamieharmon4928
    @jamieharmon4928 2 роки тому +1

    Ive had 2 Drz400s love them.. I have a klx300 dualsport camo put a delkovic exhaust ECU tuner and air box mod gave it some really good low-end top ends about the same put some tusk dsport tires on it. It's a great trail bike it does lack a little power still compared to the DRZ

  • @DamonStangherlin
    @DamonStangherlin 3 роки тому +3

    Love my klx, rock-solid option. I would love the added displacement but I'm not interested in EFI.

  • @daves3016
    @daves3016 3 роки тому +3

    i have never wanted fuel injection on my DRZ the carb has worked great and i like the tuneability. I normally ride at 1500ft i was in the mountains last summer at 9k and it ran fine lol.

  • @hockeymann88
    @hockeymann88 2 роки тому

    Great insight comparing the two bikes. Answered many questions.

  • @rrazote2279
    @rrazote2279 3 роки тому +1

    I'm picking up this bike this weekend. I contemplated going DRZ400SM, but at 5' 4" it's just too tall for me. Powerwise and having reliability in spades, the DRZ is just a better motorcycle, period, but for a contemporary "daily rider" that fit me and my purposes, I went with the KLX300SM. It was the "Goldilocks" choice of all that was available. I just wish it had better styling, like something between the Langan 2 Stroke and a Ducati Hypermotard.

  • @peterpowers4851
    @peterpowers4851 2 роки тому +1

    Great review, I sold on it.

  • @danwarmke3348
    @danwarmke3348 3 роки тому +3

    Thanks for sharing dork

  • @richyman416
    @richyman416 3 роки тому +2

    Bought my klx 300sm from the same dealer a few months ago.

  • @RedboneUnincorporated
    @RedboneUnincorporated 3 роки тому +3

    I am beyond happy with my 2021 KLX 300r, besides the seat but there are zero alternatives for that.

  • @InvidiousIgnoramus
    @InvidiousIgnoramus 3 роки тому +2

    Digging around, I'm not seeing confirmed power output for the new 300, but I'm seeing claims of about 30HP, so it seems to seat itself nicely between the DRZ400 and slightly smaller displacement bikes like the WR250R or CRF300. Pretty darn tempting, I have to say!
    Edit: ESPECIALLY with that 6th gear! Although, no fuel gauge is... strange.

    • @1985GusT
      @1985GusT 3 роки тому

      KlX 300 has Low 20’s HP to the back wheel. Similar to the CRF300L.

  • @coltonowens2742
    @coltonowens2742 3 роки тому +1

    Everyone says a fuel mapper and 02 sensor delete really wake these bikes up. Have stuff coming for my 300r that I'm really exited to try.

  • @zr2trackerjoe
    @zr2trackerjoe 3 роки тому

    The dual sport model with a 13t front sprocket and good tires is mint.

  • @mbarr1029
    @mbarr1029 3 роки тому +2

    I hope you at least rode the Vulcan 650,that and the Versys 650 ( SM ?? ) But the beast in the room was My Bike= The Vaquero. The 1/2 Price Road King.
    Sucks off road, but man can I put on the highway miles. Looking at the new KLR 650 to add to my collection. At 600 bucks more than the 300, I'm sold. Damn thing is as Bullet Proof as any DRZ

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому

      I rode the Vulcan and I used to own a Versys 650. 😁

    • @mbarr1029
      @mbarr1029 3 роки тому +1

      @@DorkintheRoad Yes you did have a Versys, I forgot. Seems like a long time ago. Been following for some time I should have remembered. My Bad

  • @KLRmurdercycle
    @KLRmurdercycle 3 роки тому +1

    SM are fun. Like a really squirrelly mountain bike😁 I think the 230 is targeted at new to dualsport riders. Also to keep competitive in the huge Asian market. Like the TDub or XT they do sell and are great little ranch bikes. The 230 was also the first to have kawis offroad oriented ABS. Is this 300 the same as the Versys 300? It could make a great cross country bike, with a bigger tank and seat. Just keep to the back roads, where all the secrets are.
    Great review✌

    • @Imightberiding
      @Imightberiding 2 роки тому +2

      Completely different bike that the Versys X300. This is a single cylinder small/mid-size thumper & the Versys is a parallel twin based on the Ninja 300 platform so it's a much smoother, high revving & slightly faster machine. While the Versys X300 is more competent & more comfortable for longer touring/adventure riding, there's no doubt the KLX-SM would be much funner all around on short rides.

  • @billsnyder6826
    @billsnyder6826 3 роки тому +1

    Cool bike, I am waiting to see your Vulcan S video, curious what your opinion is about this cruiser.

  • @smiththers2
    @smiththers2 3 роки тому +2

    I still wanna try the crf300...

  • @badbruise
    @badbruise 3 роки тому +1

    Wish they would do them demo days here in Maine we don’t get any of that stuff

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому

      That's too bad. They're usually really fun

  • @markthomas3853
    @markthomas3853 3 роки тому

    a few months back I went to the kawi test ride day... got to enjoy the KLX 300 (normal version)... at that point I'd ridden a few other bikes and I really enjoyed it, it put a smile on my face even at my 6'4 and 300lbs... it did have me eyeing other route options vs the nice smooth roads they had us running on... it was the first proper dual sport bike I've been on (unless you consider my BMW f650 funduro a dual sport?) ... I want one... it would be great for around town stuff and be fun to truck to the trails... but I also know the cost difference of the DRZ... maybe in a year or so...

  • @nwwoodsman2545
    @nwwoodsman2545 3 роки тому +1

    I'm in Vancouver.
    I have a Vulcan 900 custom that I will let you ride if you want to try it out

  • @WillfulThinker
    @WillfulThinker 2 роки тому +1

    What is Yamaha's rationale for not letting people record video on demo rides?

  • @brenmangood
    @brenmangood 3 роки тому

    There is such a shortage on all of the 2021 dual sport motorcycles this year!!! I'd have to drive 8 hours to find the closest one to me. Been on a waitlist for the KLX300 for a month. Hard to find newish 250s as well.

  • @olysasquatch
    @olysasquatch 3 роки тому +1

    I see a Kawasaki in your future;) It won't let ya down.

  • @paulfestmusic
    @paulfestmusic 3 роки тому +4

    I would love to get your take on the Kawasaki vs the Honda 300. I hear the Honda has more power but worse suspension (which of course could be upgraded). Hope you have a chance to test out the Honda soon and let us know what you think of it too!

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому

      I'd love the chance to ride one, but Honda doesn't seem to do demo days, as far as I can tell.

    • @zr2trackerjoe
      @zr2trackerjoe 3 роки тому

      There are dyno videos out for both. Both aren't where advertised but very close

  • @demon817
    @demon817 2 роки тому

    I hope in 2023 Kawasaki decides to takes the next step with a KLX400 to match the dinosaur DRZ400 and Yamaha get's in the game. Yamaha has the ability to put out the best bike in the 300 class if they pull the trigger. People are finding these supermotos a blast to ride great gas milage, a great city bike and the ability to go off road it you want with low mantanance.

    • @scottyagodich7319
      @scottyagodich7319 2 роки тому +1

      I bet it will take a long time before the Kawasaki makes a klx400 s, they just recently came out with the klx 300. It'll be a while

  • @NeedleBender785
    @NeedleBender785 3 роки тому +1

    Still debating between the KLX and CRF.
    I do like the ABS option for the CRF. It’s switchable for the rear wheel.
    But in my opinion ABS is a great safety feature if you gonna spend any time on the road.

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому +1

      Useful if you're gonna ride on the road for sure. I don't ride my dual sport on the road much so it's not something that really appeals to me. If I didn't also have my AT, that would be a different story.

    • @e.l.9589
      @e.l.9589 2 роки тому +1

      ABS is pointless for economy type brakes. Learn brake control and don't rely on the bike to do the work for you. I ride my non ABS 500, 15k miles per year regardless of weather all while lane splitting.

    • @NeedleBender785
      @NeedleBender785 2 роки тому

      @@e.l.9589 wound up getting the KLX, really love the bike.

  • @RaptorPackAdventures
    @RaptorPackAdventures 3 роки тому

    Nice review. Your videos now have me looking for a small duel sport. I like the KLR 650 but thinking smaller. I’ll look up tank size. I’ll be riding it from home to the dirt. Super moto? Good review

    • @justletmecomment6453
      @justletmecomment6453 3 роки тому +1

      Super moto refers to a dirtbike fitted with 17" wheels and tuned differently.

    • @elitetileandstone
      @elitetileandstone 3 роки тому +1

      I think it's a two gallon tank.

  • @mikebishop6095
    @mikebishop6095 Рік тому

    I’m between this sm and the crf300l

  • @pinkiewerewolf
    @pinkiewerewolf 3 роки тому +2

    The only way I’d not be happy with my KLX300S would be if Yamaha came out with a WR350R.

    • @mt1885
      @mt1885 3 роки тому +2

      Would be nice - but I don't think they will due to the battery powered shopping cart climak scam

  • @paulm7732
    @paulm7732 5 місяців тому

    what is a 250L? you referred to?

  • @clappedoutfpv2331
    @clappedoutfpv2331 2 роки тому

    I'm in salem. Wondering what sm I should get.

  • @danryan4344
    @danryan4344 3 роки тому +2

    Did they have a guided test ride? Great review!

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому +2

      That's how they run the demo days rides, usually.

    • @danryan4344
      @danryan4344 3 роки тому +1

      @@DorkintheRoad I have never gone on a demo ride. I'll have to check it out next time they do it.

  • @ridingwithrusso7790
    @ridingwithrusso7790 3 роки тому +2

    I have the DRZ SM and I was wondering how the power of the new KLX300 SM compared at higher cruising speeds, I thought maybe the 6th gear would make up for the lower power but that doesn’t seem to be the case. The tach is a nice feature though. Thanks for the review!

    • @mt1885
      @mt1885 3 роки тому +1

      The DRZ you can tune it, problem is they want to BAN all tuners and all MODS period

    • @johnsnow145
      @johnsnow145 2 роки тому +1

      @@mt1885 thats only state by state. It’s not being banned nationally

  • @briancsmith11
    @briancsmith11 2 роки тому

    There are a few mods u can do to this bike to get it feeling just the the drz 400. Then u have best of both worlds. Fuel injection, 6 the gear etc.

    • @machupikachu1085
      @machupikachu1085 2 роки тому

      like 20% more horsepower with an fcr carb?
      oh, wait...

  • @1990-t1j
    @1990-t1j 3 роки тому +2

    Have you thought about testing a KTM Duke 390? It blows the DRZ away. If you want a road bike, that is.

    • @samlarson2501
      @samlarson2501 3 роки тому +1

      DRZ is a dualsport. Very different than a 390 Duke and 390ADV even.

    • @1990-t1j
      @1990-t1j 3 роки тому

      @@samlarson2501 The DRZ 400SM is comparable. It's an SM.

    • @samlarson2501
      @samlarson2501 3 роки тому +1

      @@1990-t1j A KTM 390 is a street bike though, not a supermoto. If you've ridden both, you know there is a big difference in handling, ergos, seat height - everything.

  • @jerheino
    @jerheino 3 роки тому

    Looks like fun!

  • @chrisfromkatunga6245
    @chrisfromkatunga6245 3 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts, keep up the good work. Why are you using your clutch on the upshift? There is no need to do that, give it a try on the DRZ and see what you think.

  • @elderrider9298
    @elderrider9298 3 роки тому +2

    LOl send ya a T7..... im still waiting for mine and i have money down on it

  • @mmaaddict78
    @mmaaddict78 3 роки тому +4

    The KLX super moto would be a good replacement for the Grom if not the DRZ.

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  3 роки тому +2

      It would definitely do a lot of what the Grom does, but a lot better.

    • @clappedoutfpv2331
      @clappedoutfpv2331 2 роки тому

      I just sold my grom to upgrade. Looking to upgrade to super moto also.

  • @edwinarmstrong9175
    @edwinarmstrong9175 3 роки тому

    Hello DITR or Ben, if you like your DRZ 400 don’t give up on Suzuki. The world governments are going to cause Suzuki to put fuel injection on the DRZ. They already have it on there 4 wheeler, which has almost identical engine. The only question is what year? Oh & by the way that 4 wheeler has not only a 5 speed, but also has a reverse gear. So if you like your DRZ now, eventually it will be fuel injected & maybe a sixth gear in place of that reverse gear. Hopefully it will happen sooner than later but it seems like they would want to get it out soon to complete against the new Honda & Kawasaki’s 300’s.
    Again thanks for your time & videos!!!!!

    • @mt1885
      @mt1885 3 роки тому +1

      DRZ will get dropped and the DR650 both if you want one get it now

  • @chrisashley2736
    @chrisashley2736 3 роки тому

    does anyone know what sensors it uses for the efi system? Could you just replace the exhaust or does it have a sensor there?

    • @mt1885
      @mt1885 3 роки тому

      You got to buy a tuner

  • @roviwoteap2375
    @roviwoteap2375 3 роки тому

    Would have been nice to have a quick walk around of the bike. Good review though.

  • @unclebadger597
    @unclebadger597 3 роки тому

    I want that KLX! Not sure if I understand the point of super moto though🤷🏻‍♂️

    • @smiththers2
      @smiththers2 3 роки тому

      While I haven't ridden one myself, I love how my dirtbike drives on the street, and so do some others... Enough so that they just started putting street tires on them lol.

    • @brs256ish
      @brs256ish 3 роки тому

      Ride one and you’ll see. It’s makes it a completely different bike. Friend of mine owns 1 s model and 1 Sm model both so much fun.

    • @brs256ish
      @brs256ish 3 роки тому

      I’ll be picking up another set of wheels so I am run street tires when I want on my drz

    • @unclebadger597
      @unclebadger597 2 роки тому

      Ok i get it now. Can't believe the wife is interested in this for her first bike!

  • @TheAwesomeSpiderDude
    @TheAwesomeSpiderDude 2 роки тому

    Power over charges for everything. I’d rather drive up to Hillsboro Motorsports. I recommend them.

  • @shaymtbrider7244
    @shaymtbrider7244 Рік тому

    I am 220 n my bike hit 95 on speeso n actual Speed probably 90

  • @Dan-56
    @Dan-56 3 роки тому

    Little Dork’s next bike 🤔?

  • @kurbuy21
    @kurbuy21 3 роки тому +1

    I'm a big guy and I have the same bike and I can hit 83mph on hwy

  • @Akkk935
    @Akkk935 3 роки тому

    Would you ride that on the freeway

  • @OneOldManRiding
    @OneOldManRiding 3 роки тому +5

    If you engaged in no hooligan behavior, can you really have test ridden a supermoto?

  • @adbtw7211
    @adbtw7211 3 роки тому

    Drz carb problem check latest video from motocheez

  • @danielkurek7009
    @danielkurek7009 2 роки тому +1

    No thanks, I'd rather my DRZ. If anything drz's are infinitely upgradable.. run a lectron carb if you want feel and function of fuel injection.

    • @shaymtbrider7244
      @shaymtbrider7244 Рік тому

      😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 5th gear after 60 drz give u tickles 🤗

  • @walterconn5637
    @walterconn5637 3 роки тому

    👍

  • @brettpearce687
    @brettpearce687 3 роки тому

    Why is that guy Infront of you riding always almost on the middle yellow line. Dangerous bad habit. So dangerous