I'm 60, been riding duals/enduros for 50 years now. Bang for buck....the drz kicks ass! I have an 05, ridden it from sea level to 12,000', it just keeps running like a raped ape. It'll probably be one of my last bikes that I ever sell. I wouldn't waste $1000 on a FCR carb. Just do the JD jet kit, and the 3x3 mod, it"ll be fine. JNS makes an excellent headlight for it. Wider pegs are a must. Taller bars are a must. I have mine geared a little lower than stock, and it'll tractor up pretty much anything. The weight has never been an issue. Probably won't be for you either. I put a kick starter on mine, just in case. I do some extremely remote rides, so had to put a 4 gal tank on it. But I'm never worried being in the bush with that pig. I'll probably die before it does!!!!
Thanks for commenting. I have a new 2022 DRZ. Do you think the 3x3 mod and JD jet kit is good enough, or should I seriously consider replacing the stock exhaust? I bought the JD kit and I'm ready to do the 3x3 mod, but I have to figure out if it's worth it to replace the exhaust (about $400) or just change the muffler. The JD jet kit has you adjust for an aftermarket slip-on even with the stock exhaust, so I'm thinking that a good muffler will help with it breathing a little better. But I don't know for sure.
I came off a 2021 TE250i husky for PNW gnar. I ended up with a DRZ400e (e-start, FCR, off road model) in a trade for another bike I was selling. Did not intend to keep it. Then I rode it. WTF? Fun!!! It's crazy the stuff I can do on it (I am an experienced rider), beyond my expectations, by far. What a cool bike. Very useful and fun motor without wearing you out, nice handling, great trail suspension. There is a reason they make this bike after over 20 years!!!
Good video. I've got a DRZ, WR450 and RMZ450. The DRZ is deceptively fast and the soft suspension, while not good for jumps, keeps fatigue down to nearly nothing. In the desert I've chased Honda CRF450s on my DRZ and lost ground for about 20 minutes. After that, I could see they were becoming tired and actually beat them after half an hour. I put 30k miles roaming Utah in shorts, tee shirt and sunglasses in the summer. Absolutely fantastic, polite bike that goes and goes. Street legal outta the box too. Don't have to trailer. That Honda 300 is a gutless pig compared to the DRZ. Not sure what's up with your front brake. Both my DRZs have great breaks. Maybe a freak? FInally, Kenda K270s are great tires for the DRZ.
This is my exact experience with my DRZ off-road model. The bike gets a lot of shit for being slow and boring but when you drag race it (at least my k model) against a modern 450 motocross based trail bike there really isn’t much difference in engine performance. The suspension is like a cloud and it’s so easy to ride. I just pounded out a 75 mile single track on mine yesterday and the 450 class bikes had their riders tired out and I was smoking them at the end of the day. The modern bikes are responsive but to a fault for an average rider. Wish they still sold the k and e model in the usa. The k model was under 260 lbs dry.
Popping on deceleration usually indicates a lean condition which is how they're delivered stock. A jet kit and the 3 by 3 mod takes care of that as well as giving a bit more steam. Cheers
If bikes live a life and have a soul, and I have always felt all of my bikes did, I would say that you are finally going to make this bikes soul sing in a way I could just tell I never would. Makes me very happy, and makes the hours I spent tinkering on it worth while. It’s old tech, and requires finesse to wring out its best qualities in a way that maybe new tech makes easier, but I think as you learn the subtleties of the bike and hone your skills to match its strengths (and weaknesses) and as you become more ‘one with the bike’ if that makes sense, the bike will only get better. Makes me really happy to hear you’re happy with it. It’ll definitely take you places and help you make some memories.
Thank you Hal, appreciate you providing me the opportunity to enjoy this awesome machine! Hope you have just as much fun on your new Versys as I'm having on this DRZ.
@@chasingtrail everyone will have opinions and suggestions, and you’ll always chase the dragon (the perfect set up) but bet if you resign yourself to stick with this one and learn the personality of the bike and it’s subtleties (and not so subtleties) and adjust your riding style to maximize the strengths and minimize the weaknesses this bike will take you everywhere you want to go. Watched a handful of videos on the differences of Klr and drz, and how bulletproof they both are this morning and was reminded how versatile that bike really is. I’m really looking forward to watching your adventures. Added the top box that came with my purchase today, looks insanely awkward but I love it. lol. Definitely no longer looks like a ninja with upright handlebars.
INTENT -n- CO$Ts are the two mitigating factors in buying a bike and most people do not know what their intent is until after they've ridden for a while. The fact of the matter is, you can take whatever bike ya got & make it do the chore in front of you. I'm saving for a 1st bike since the 90's right now & so I've got a list of bikes, all are dual sports, and I've even got lists of all the mods I'd want to do to each of those bikes. Both the DRz & Honda 300L are on my lists. The Rally version of 300L and the 6th gear along w/ larger gas tank are just some of my reasons for liking it. Any bike from the Japanese builders I'd be trusting to last a long time. The DRz/DR650 are both great bikes, the carbs do not bother me at all & in a way the less computer crap on a bike, the better should there be a problem. BUT I'm here evaluating stuff so TY for the videos.
Thank you for the comment. I've been riding a long time and I still struggle to be honest with myself about intent. Probably why I go through so many bikes.
Well, with a Channel Titled "ChasingTrail".... Umm, kinda descriptive but it makes no matter. A lot of channels do exactly what you have but mostly to create more content. "Intent to create Content" ! Yeah, that's what it is but it's alright since having a channel allows for you to actually discover yourself all the way across the gambit..... Nevertheless, you just got 2 of the 8-10 bikes I'm researching so it was a double whammy for me & you riding a longer time allows me me to ask all sorts of stuff & know I'm getting reasonable answers. Kudo's for that & I've still got 2-3 months before I'll be able to buy = more time to get to know all the bikes & what I can expect in Mods after the purchase. I've not met anyone who's looking post-purchase far enough to know what those mods cost. Anyhoo, ty for the vids, I'll be around. peace
You are preaching exactly what I was thinking about the new 300 bikes. I also wish society would quit going full yuppie with the fuel injection. Fuel injected bikes you have to spend twice as much to have the damn thing tuned anytime you do engine upgrades. I feel the world has lost interest in learning anything and they have adopted the homer simpson way of thinking "can't someone else do it". Good video
I've had a 2002 DRZ since 2006. 18,500 miles later, it's still the best bike for the majority of the riding I do. I do prefer my 450 EXC-F for Single track though. The DRZ is a better "ride all day bike" for 100+ miles of fire roads.
It's entirely possible I buy another. Either a DRZ, DR650, or XR650L. Leaning XR650L because it's new and different, but I won't pass up a good deal on the other two.
I had a 2019 KTM exc-f and the DRZ400s ... agree about the heavyweight of the DRZ but when it came down to it the KTM is the one I sold and kept the smooth Bulletproof drz
The DRZ is an awesome bike, I mention in my latest video that if DMV pulls the registration on this one I'll plan to get another. The KTM is already having issues I'm trying to troubleshoot, likely with the fuel system. Waiting on parts and tools to try to fix it. Pretty disappointing for a bike with 60 miles on it.
I was after a KLX300 for like a year. I finally got a drz400 due to availability and price. I feel just like you about it. I actually think I got the better hike for me. Upgraded from a KLR250, and am loving the power of the 400. I ride just on the other side of Shasta from you. In the medicine lake hills.
Great review really enjoyed it if John Deere made a motorcycle it would be the DRZ a real tractor. So glad you prefer it to the CRF I nearly bought one myself but ended up with a DRZ based on what you say I made the right decision.
@@theautobarber9403 I have never ridden a WR but had my DRZ 3yrs now (2007 year we stopped getting them in the UK in 08) its done 14000 miles and been trouble free I love it. Whichever you buy I doubt you can go wrong enjoy it😀👍
I bought my DRZ brand new and I never felt like the front didn't have enough stopping power - but this is my first dual/sport - I'm used to older (2000 YZ250) motocross bikes.
@@chasingtrail Very cool! I have a friend in the gaming industry. Aaron Smith. He made Sheeple the game. But that's a board game. But yes. Any time. I'm a writer so my time is flexible.
Do you still have the DRz, We have the e model in Australia, and they're not heavy (119kg dry) and power is good before modding. and sturdy for the tough stuff.
They are a fun bike to ride. I would say the fcr carb makes a big difference. I've never ridden a vacuum carb version but mine had the fcr and power was immediate
@@chasingtrail here in Australia they come stock with the FCR carb. We also get more aggressive cams and a free-flowing radiator. Also plastic tank and less weight 138kg (lighter subframe). Oh and a higher compression piston. AUS: 12:2:1 USA:11:3:1 the horsepower is quite different as a result. AUS: 39.7HP USA: 33.4HP
I gotta say we got a DRZ for my dad and I ride a KTM300 I expected it to suck but man it has impressed me. I rode a buddy’s Honda 300 for a while it’s more nimble for sure but the suspension and power is so garbage. I would take the 400 all day
feel it in muh plums! lol. been following you for a bit and thank you for your content! I'm in the same boat. I got rid of my heavy adventure bikes and I'm looking for my first dual sport since I'm going to be buying a truck. No highway! DRZ seems awesome but I'm kind of spoiled by european bikes. Two bikes on my list I'm giving a hard look to are the 690 Enduro R and the 350EXC. 690 weighs about the same as that DRZ I believe and is more modern. 350EXC you sacrifice road manners for full on dirt capabilities. When I'm riding solo the weight savings might be worth it though. Looking forward to more videos and first ride impressions! I'm a fan.
Hi Jan, glad you're enjoying the content. Based on your described scenario with no highway I'd be leaning 350 myself. I think the 690 Enduro R is about 344 lbs wet, which is 27 lbs heavier than the DRZ even. The thing I see praised about the 690 is how good it is if you want to do highway miles. In my opinion, weight is king offroad. I will be giving the 350 machines a strong look myself. But I'm an idiot and should take anything I say with a huge grain of salt. Good luck in finding the right bike for you!
@@chasingtrail My friends think I'm crazy too. I have gone through so may bikes in the past 5 years since I started. NO regrets though. Its pretty much the only thing I spend my money on and it has kept me sober. My goal in life is to ride as many bikes as possible. At first I was a street rider but got bit by the dirt bug. Now I'm in this lovely rabbit hole. I love it , pure passion for the hobby. I think the 350 might be good for me I think a 500 might be too much for now. Keep up the great content you are very entertaining and provide a no nonsense approach which is refreshing. Anyone that hates on you for going through bikes is just jealous you are financially able to do this. I went from Ninja 300 (first bike) - FZ09 (heavily modified) - Multistrada 1260S - S1000XR - R1250GS - 890 Adventure R .. now a pickup truck and a future dual sport.
Wish they still sold the off-road model in the USA. If you do the pumper carb you should do the thinner head gasket and cam as well to make it like a K or E model. 3x3 mod and jd jet kit. Sounds like the CV carb is smoother though. Amazing place to ride.
Get the suspensions dialed in for your weight and you'll like the DRZ that much more, especially on harder 2 track and the occasional not too extreme single track.
Also my friend that stock carb has a diaphragm spring if you cut one or two coils off of that it will give you slightly more bottom snap.. some jet kits instructions require this if they do not supply a slightly lighter spring so it is a normal and okay thing to do I would start with one coil at a time if cutting two right off the bat makes you nervous
This video is a year old, so I don't remember the specifics of what I was jabbering about. I had upgraded suspension on the 300L, which it needs if you're over like 150 lbs. The DRZ stock suspension felt fine to me.
The 450L is the objectively better machine in most regards. It's lighter, fuel injected, better suspension, better brakes. The DRZ has a better seat, the throttle isn't super twitchy, and larger stock gas tank (not much, about 0.6 gallons). Parts for the DRZ are abundant and generally cheap. The 450L also requires much more frequent maintenance than the DRZ. The 450L feels best when ridden hard. The DRZ is happy to putt around on. 3x3 mod, jet kit and slip-on exhaust is about $500 vs the Vortex ECU and full system exhaust almost everyone puts on the 450L to deal with the twitchy throttle. You're looking at about $1,500 for that stuff. If money is not a factor I'd get a 450L. If money is a factor, you can get a nice used DRZ for less than half the price of a 450L and still have 90% as much fun. That's my 2 cents.
@@chasingtrail Thanks. It’s great to see someone else go through figuring out the bike best suited for them. I went from a KLX250SF (uncorked with FMF) to a stock DR650 to a DRZ400S (fcr carb, Yoshi pipe, etc.). KLX was nice handling and sounded amazing but was waaaay too slow. The DR650 was great. Just enough power, felt great on the road, but was waaaay to heavy for harder off-road stuff. The DRZ is awesome. Lots of power. Super stable on the road and is much lighter and feels better than the DR off-road too. I have two big gripes with the DRZ… I really don’t like where the rpm’s are at going 60 mph. It actually feels really comfortable at 50, but at 60, it feels like you really need to get it into 6th gear. And the second thing is it looks and feels old (mine’s a ‘04). It needs TLC. Although I got it for super cheap. Not having ridden a CRF450L or a KTM 500, I would say a DRZ with ACT gears would be an unreal dual sport. I’m between putting ACT gears in and freshening up the DRZ or selling it and buying a CRF450L or a KTM 500.
@@bicepusmaximus I owned a DR650 previously and loved it, but agree it's pretty heavy for any real off-road stuff. I may get another when my BMW sells but it set it up for like 70/30 street/dirt. I'm really enjoying the DRZ as a 50/50 bike though. It feels great on the street and still pretty good off-road. As far as I know my DRZ is on stock gearing and it feels ok up to 60 - 65. Beyond that it feels a bit stressed. 1st gear is a bit tall for the really technical stuff and I have to feather the clutch a bit. All of the dual sports I've ridden feel like they're revving pretty hard at 65, even those with 6 speeds, the DR650 being the one that felt most comfortable at higher speeds. I considered the ACT gears but seems like a lot of expense and time. I'd rather just get a bike better suited to the intended use, or have multiple bikes. There is no unicorn. The biggest thing for me these other bikes have over the DRZ, and the KTM in particular, is the light weight. It makes a YUGE difference off-road, but somehow still manages to feel very solid on the street. I wouldn't want to do long distance on the street due the vibrations through the pegs, but I didn't get the KTM for that purpose. I'm always going to have at least 2 bikes to cover different uses.
@@chasingtrail Thanks for getting back! Hope you can answer a couple more questions: 1. How did the CRF450L feel compared to the DRZ on the road and at 60 - 65 in particular? 2. How did the CRF450L feel compared to the KTM 500 on the road and at 60 - 65 again? I really prefer the Honda (with the upgrades) to the KTM.
@@bicepusmaximus 1. Very comparable. The DRZ feels slightly more planted, likely due to the extra weight, but the 450L has a 6th gear and can go slightly faster comfortably. 2. 450L feels better than the KTM 500 on the road largely due to the lack of vibration on the 450L. I thought it vibrated a bit but it's nothing compared to the KTM. The KTM has considerable vibration, particularly through the footpegs.
I have not had the opportunity, no. The WR450 can't really be made street legal here. Once in a great while I see someone who got away with it, but DMV could yank that plate at any time. As of model year 2022, even if I went out and bought a brand new WR450, I could not legally ride it at this OHV park. CA won't even issue OHV stickers for most offroad vehicles anymore unless they meet the Green sticker requirements, and few do.
@@chasingtrail Hmm , in the UK/Europe Wr450 ,CRF450,KTM500 are all sold as road/dual sport bikes there are full on Moto Cross versions for competition available also - no lights etc.
I would love to ride one of those sometime. I've considered going that route and just trucking it to the OHV area. I really love the versatility of dual sports though.
I had just watched you video about the mods, you're a wiser man than I. For some reason I have fun doing this stuff, just wish it held more value. Hopefully I can find the right buyer who will appreciate this stuff. The Rally is an awesome bike! Hope I didn't shit on it too much. The DRZ is just a better match for me personally.
@@chasingtrail Thanks! I love it too. I'm wondering if doing the JD jetting would keep it from backfiring. It just means that extra fuel is getting into the exhaust and igniting, right? So, it's probably a fuel mixture issue from the stock jetting.
@@CoachSteve4u I am no expert on carbs and believe properly tuning them to involves some sort of voodoo ritual. Mine had JD jetting and still backfired. I was told it's normal.
the whole mod thing is a joke, 95% of riders cant push the DRZ to its max to begin with...yet they want to squeeze out more HP. i have an 04 6500 stock no mods just reliability,i would add an FCR carb if they were prices of 8 yrs ago, btw euro bikes are trash unless you like spending gobs of money/time on one...
I'm 60, been riding duals/enduros for 50 years now. Bang for buck....the drz kicks ass! I have an 05, ridden it from sea level to 12,000', it just keeps running like a raped ape. It'll probably be one of my last bikes that I ever sell.
I wouldn't waste $1000 on a FCR carb. Just do the JD jet kit, and the 3x3 mod, it"ll be fine. JNS makes an excellent headlight for it. Wider pegs are a must. Taller bars are a must.
I have mine geared a little lower than stock, and it'll tractor up pretty much anything.
The weight has never been an issue. Probably won't be for you either.
I put a kick starter on mine, just in case. I do some extremely remote rides, so had to put a 4 gal tank on it. But I'm never worried being in the bush with that pig.
I'll probably die before it does!!!!
Thanks for your feedback. It is a fun bike for sure. I've already added wider pegs and bar risers. I'll check out the headlight. Thanks!
I did all the same things. I really enjoy my drz400s 😁
Thanks for commenting. I have a new 2022 DRZ. Do you think the 3x3 mod and JD jet kit is good enough, or should I seriously consider replacing the stock exhaust? I bought the JD kit and I'm ready to do the 3x3 mod, but I have to figure out if it's worth it to replace the exhaust (about $400) or just change the muffler. The JD jet kit has you adjust for an aftermarket slip-on even with the stock exhaust, so I'm thinking that a good muffler will help with it breathing a little better. But I don't know for sure.
@@CoachSteve4u I did the 3x3 and jets. No noticeable difference, should have just left it stock.
@@keldonator Right - I've heard the same from some others.
I came off a 2021 TE250i husky for PNW gnar. I ended up with a DRZ400e (e-start, FCR, off road model) in a trade for another bike I was selling. Did not intend to keep it. Then I rode it. WTF? Fun!!! It's crazy the stuff I can do on it (I am an experienced rider), beyond my expectations, by far. What a cool bike. Very useful and fun motor without wearing you out, nice handling, great trail suspension. There is a reason they make this bike after over 20 years!!!
Good video. I've got a DRZ, WR450 and RMZ450. The DRZ is deceptively fast and the soft suspension, while not good for jumps, keeps fatigue down to nearly nothing. In the desert I've chased Honda CRF450s on my DRZ and lost ground for about 20 minutes. After that, I could see they were becoming tired and actually beat them after half an hour. I put 30k miles roaming Utah in shorts, tee shirt and sunglasses in the summer. Absolutely fantastic, polite bike that goes and goes. Street legal outta the box too. Don't have to trailer. That Honda 300 is a gutless pig compared to the DRZ. Not sure what's up with your front brake. Both my DRZs have great breaks. Maybe a freak? FInally, Kenda K270s are great tires for the DRZ.
This is my exact experience with my DRZ off-road model. The bike gets a lot of shit for being slow and boring but when you drag race it (at least my k model) against a modern 450 motocross based trail bike there really isn’t much difference in engine performance. The suspension is like a cloud and it’s so easy to ride. I just pounded out a 75 mile single track on mine yesterday and the 450 class bikes had their riders tired out and I was smoking them at the end of the day. The modern bikes are responsive but to a fault for an average rider. Wish they still sold the k and e model in the usa. The k model was under 260 lbs dry.
First complaint I heard about front brake ,also ?
Popping on deceleration usually indicates a lean condition which is how they're delivered stock. A jet kit and the 3 by 3 mod takes care of that as well as giving a bit more steam. Cheers
Has 3x3 and jetting ,
The DRZ is an awesome machine but I'm keeping my Rally. Got it set up exactly how I want now. Another great video!
Right on, I agree the Rally is an awesome bike. I hope I didn't disparage it too much. The DRZ is just a better fit for me personally.
If bikes live a life and have a soul, and I have always felt all of my bikes did, I would say that you are finally going to make this bikes soul sing in a way I could just tell I never would. Makes me very happy, and makes the hours I spent tinkering on it worth while. It’s old tech, and requires finesse to wring out its best qualities in a way that maybe new tech makes easier, but I think as you learn the subtleties of the bike and hone your skills to match its strengths (and weaknesses) and as you become more ‘one with the bike’ if that makes sense, the bike will only get better. Makes me really happy to hear you’re happy with it. It’ll definitely take you places and help you make some memories.
Thank you Hal, appreciate you providing me the opportunity to enjoy this awesome machine! Hope you have just as much fun on your new Versys as I'm having on this DRZ.
@@chasingtrail everyone will have opinions and suggestions, and you’ll always chase the dragon (the perfect set up) but bet if you resign yourself to stick with this one and learn the personality of the bike and it’s subtleties (and not so subtleties) and adjust your riding style to maximize the strengths and minimize the weaknesses this bike will take you everywhere you want to go. Watched a handful of videos on the differences of Klr and drz, and how bulletproof they both are this morning and was reminded how versatile that bike really is. I’m really looking forward to watching your adventures. Added the top box that came with my purchase today, looks insanely awkward but I love it. lol. Definitely no longer looks like a ninja with upright handlebars.
INTENT -n- CO$Ts are the two mitigating factors in buying a bike and most people do not know what their intent is until after
they've ridden for a while. The fact of the matter is, you can take whatever bike ya got & make it do the chore in front of you.
I'm saving for a 1st bike since the 90's right now & so I've got a list of bikes, all are dual sports, and I've even got lists of all
the mods I'd want to do to each of those bikes. Both the DRz & Honda 300L are on my lists. The Rally version of 300L and
the 6th gear along w/ larger gas tank are just some of my reasons for liking it. Any bike from the Japanese builders I'd be
trusting to last a long time. The DRz/DR650 are both great bikes, the carbs do not bother me at all & in a way the less
computer crap on a bike, the better should there be a problem. BUT I'm here evaluating stuff so TY for the videos.
Thank you for the comment. I've been riding a long time and I still struggle to be honest with myself about intent. Probably why I go through so many bikes.
Well, with a Channel Titled "ChasingTrail".... Umm, kinda descriptive but it makes no matter. A lot of channels do exactly
what you have but mostly to create more content. "Intent to create Content" ! Yeah, that's what it is but it's alright since
having a channel allows for you to actually discover yourself all the way across the gambit..... Nevertheless, you just got
2 of the 8-10 bikes I'm researching so it was a double whammy for me & you riding a longer time allows me me to ask
all sorts of stuff & know I'm getting reasonable answers. Kudo's for that & I've still got 2-3 months before I'll be able
to buy = more time to get to know all the bikes & what I can expect in Mods after the purchase. I've not met anyone
who's looking post-purchase far enough to know what those mods cost. Anyhoo, ty for the vids, I'll be around. peace
Greetings
Thanks for the ride 🇺🇸🍾🎉🇺🇸
Keep producing more videos on DRZ
Thanks Rosario! More videos will come for sure.
You are preaching exactly what I was thinking about the new 300 bikes. I also wish society would quit going full yuppie with the fuel injection. Fuel injected bikes you have to spend twice as much to have the damn thing tuned anytime you do engine upgrades. I feel the world has lost interest in learning anything and they have adopted the homer simpson way of thinking "can't someone else do it". Good video
I've had a 2002 DRZ since 2006. 18,500 miles later, it's still the best bike for the majority of the riding I do. I do prefer my 450 EXC-F for Single track though. The DRZ is a better "ride all day bike" for 100+ miles of fire roads.
It's entirely possible I buy another. Either a DRZ, DR650, or XR650L. Leaning XR650L because it's new and different, but I won't pass up a good deal on the other two.
I had a 2019 KTM exc-f and the DRZ400s ... agree about the heavyweight of the DRZ but when it came down to it the KTM is the one I sold and kept the smooth Bulletproof drz
The DRZ is an awesome bike, I mention in my latest video that if DMV pulls the registration on this one I'll plan to get another. The KTM is already having issues I'm trying to troubleshoot, likely with the fuel system. Waiting on parts and tools to try to fix it. Pretty disappointing for a bike with 60 miles on it.
That is interesting to hear. I like my drz400s but I still wonder about the ktm. I don't like maintenance so I went with the drz.
I was after a KLX300 for like a year. I finally got a drz400 due to availability and price. I feel just like you about it. I actually think I got the better hike for me. Upgraded from a KLR250, and am loving the power of the 400. I ride just on the other side of Shasta from you. In the medicine lake hills.
Nice, glad you were able to find a bike that works well for you. I'd love to ride over there some time.
The heart wants what the heart wants.
Indeed. This wasn't the outcome I anticipated, but it's where I ended up. I'm thankful to have had the experience.
Great review really enjoyed it if John Deere made a motorcycle it would be the DRZ a real tractor. So glad you prefer it to the CRF I nearly bought one myself but ended up with a DRZ based on what you say I made the right decision.
They're great bikes, I love it as a true 50/50 dual sport!
Looking at the drz400 vs wr250r my brother has a crf250l I’m going to test soon I’m exciting for my first dual sport coming from cruiser sport bike
@@theautobarber9403 I have never ridden a WR but had my DRZ 3yrs now (2007 year we stopped getting them in the UK in 08) its done 14000 miles and been trouble free I love it.
Whichever you buy I doubt you can go wrong enjoy it😀👍
I bought my DRZ brand new and I never felt like the front didn't have enough stopping power - but this is my first dual/sport - I'm used to older (2000 YZ250) motocross bikes.
I hope I get the opportunity to ride another DRZ at some point to see if it was just mine.
@@chasingtrail If you're ever in Vegas, you can test-ride mine.
@@CoachSteve4u Thanks! I work in the gaming industry so it's inevitable I will be there at some point.
@@chasingtrail Very cool! I have a friend in the gaming industry. Aaron Smith. He made Sheeple the game. But that's a board game.
But yes. Any time. I'm a writer so my time is flexible.
Do you still have the DRz, We have the e model in Australia, and they're not heavy (119kg dry) and power is good before modding. and sturdy for the tough stuff.
I no longer have the DRZ, but I could well own another someday. Yes, I'm envious of your E model. Not street legal here, especially in my state.
Looks like you’ve found the right bike for yourself, at least for the foreseeable future. Can’t argue with that. 😉
Hi Bruce, yeah, it surprised me how much fun I had on it. It's the better bike for me, even if I think the Rally is better on paper.
Dude what state are you in, the terrain looks awesome.
Northern CA, lots of good places to ride.
They are a fun bike to ride. I would say the fcr carb makes a big difference. I've never ridden a vacuum carb version but mine had the fcr and power was immediate
Thank you for your feedback, but damnit, the FCR is so expensive!
@@chasingtrail here in Australia they come stock with the FCR carb. We also get more aggressive cams and a free-flowing radiator. Also plastic tank and less weight 138kg (lighter subframe). Oh and a higher compression piston. AUS: 12:2:1 USA:11:3:1 the horsepower is quite different as a result. AUS: 39.7HP USA: 33.4HP
@@slakk5093 That's awesome, I'm envious of the E model!
@@chasingtrail E model street legal in AUS iirc
@@eflanagan1921and in NZ and still sold new for $9995. Bloody bargain and a classic
I gotta say we got a DRZ for my dad and I ride a KTM300
I expected it to suck but man it has impressed me. I rode a buddy’s Honda 300 for a while it’s more nimble for sure but the suspension and power is so garbage.
I would take the 400 all day
You ever ride the Xr400r? What do you think about it compared to the Drz400, I have the xr400r and it is awesome.
Never rode one but I've always heard they are awesome bikes.
@@chasingtrail when you ever get a chance hop on one, they are really fun bikes all around!
feel it in muh plums! lol. been following you for a bit and thank you for your content! I'm in the same boat. I got rid of my heavy adventure bikes and I'm looking for my first dual sport since I'm going to be buying a truck. No highway! DRZ seems awesome but I'm kind of spoiled by european bikes. Two bikes on my list I'm giving a hard look to are the 690 Enduro R and the 350EXC. 690 weighs about the same as that DRZ I believe and is more modern. 350EXC you sacrifice road manners for full on dirt capabilities. When I'm riding solo the weight savings might be worth it though. Looking forward to more videos and first ride impressions! I'm a fan.
Hi Jan, glad you're enjoying the content. Based on your described scenario with no highway I'd be leaning 350 myself. I think the 690 Enduro R is about 344 lbs wet, which is 27 lbs heavier than the DRZ even. The thing I see praised about the 690 is how good it is if you want to do highway miles. In my opinion, weight is king offroad. I will be giving the 350 machines a strong look myself. But I'm an idiot and should take anything I say with a huge grain of salt. Good luck in finding the right bike for you!
@@chasingtrail My friends think I'm crazy too. I have gone through so may bikes in the past 5 years since I started. NO regrets though. Its pretty much the only thing I spend my money on and it has kept me sober. My goal in life is to ride as many bikes as possible. At first I was a street rider but got bit by the dirt bug. Now I'm in this lovely rabbit hole. I love it , pure passion for the hobby. I think the 350 might be good for me I think a 500 might be too much for now. Keep up the great content you are very entertaining and provide a no nonsense approach which is refreshing. Anyone that hates on you for going through bikes is just jealous you are financially able to do this. I went from Ninja 300 (first bike) - FZ09 (heavily modified) - Multistrada 1260S - S1000XR - R1250GS - 890 Adventure R .. now a pickup truck and a future dual sport.
@@dancingmaryjane We are birds of a feather!
@@chasingtrail
Wish they still sold the off-road model in the USA. If you do the pumper carb you should do the thinner head gasket and cam as well to make it like a K or E model. 3x3 mod and jd jet kit. Sounds like the CV carb is smoother though. Amazing place to ride.
Yep, I wish we could get the version Australia had. The CV is smooth and seems to work pretty well.
@@chasingtrail I have the k model. It’s worth it to have the pumper carb in the sand.
I’m sad to see the 300L go. (I have a 300L) But congrats on getting the right bike for you.
There are definitely things about it I will miss, it's a great bike. The DRZ is just a better fit for me personally.
Get the suspensions dialed in for your weight and you'll like the DRZ that much more, especially on harder 2 track and the occasional not too extreme single track.
I like the sound of that! I do need to do some tweaking.
Also my friend that stock carb has a diaphragm spring if you cut one or two coils off of that it will give you slightly more bottom snap.. some jet kits instructions require this if they do not supply a slightly lighter spring so it is a normal and okay thing to do I would start with one coil at a time if cutting two right off the bat makes you nervous
Thank you for the tip! I'll likely end up with a pumper carb at some point, but currently this like-new KTM is sucking my wallet dry.
So you're upgrading everything but the suspension? Same things you could have upgraded on the 300L no?
This video is a year old, so I don't remember the specifics of what I was jabbering about. I had upgraded suspension on the 300L, which it needs if you're over like 150 lbs. The DRZ stock suspension felt fine to me.
How does the DRZ compare the the CRF450L? Thanks in advance!
The 450L is the objectively better machine in most regards. It's lighter, fuel injected, better suspension, better brakes. The DRZ has a better seat, the throttle isn't super twitchy, and larger stock gas tank (not much, about 0.6 gallons). Parts for the DRZ are abundant and generally cheap. The 450L also requires much more frequent maintenance than the DRZ.
The 450L feels best when ridden hard. The DRZ is happy to putt around on. 3x3 mod, jet kit and slip-on exhaust is about $500 vs the Vortex ECU and full system exhaust almost everyone puts on the 450L to deal with the twitchy throttle. You're looking at about $1,500 for that stuff.
If money is not a factor I'd get a 450L. If money is a factor, you can get a nice used DRZ for less than half the price of a 450L and still have 90% as much fun. That's my 2 cents.
@@chasingtrail Thanks. It’s great to see someone else go through figuring out the bike best suited for them.
I went from a KLX250SF (uncorked with FMF) to a stock DR650 to a DRZ400S (fcr carb, Yoshi pipe, etc.). KLX was nice handling and sounded amazing but was waaaay too slow. The DR650 was great. Just enough power, felt great on the road, but was waaaay to heavy for harder off-road stuff. The DRZ is awesome. Lots of power. Super stable on the road and is much lighter and feels better than the DR off-road too.
I have two big gripes with the DRZ… I really don’t like where the rpm’s are at going 60 mph. It actually feels really comfortable at 50, but at 60, it feels like you really need to get it into 6th gear. And the second thing is it looks and feels old (mine’s a ‘04). It needs TLC. Although I got it for super cheap.
Not having ridden a CRF450L or a KTM 500, I would say a DRZ with ACT gears would be an unreal dual sport. I’m between putting ACT gears in and freshening up the DRZ or selling it and buying a CRF450L or a KTM 500.
@@bicepusmaximus I owned a DR650 previously and loved it, but agree it's pretty heavy for any real off-road stuff. I may get another when my BMW sells but it set it up for like 70/30 street/dirt. I'm really enjoying the DRZ as a 50/50 bike though. It feels great on the street and still pretty good off-road.
As far as I know my DRZ is on stock gearing and it feels ok up to 60 - 65. Beyond that it feels a bit stressed. 1st gear is a bit tall for the really technical stuff and I have to feather the clutch a bit. All of the dual sports I've ridden feel like they're revving pretty hard at 65, even those with 6 speeds, the DR650 being the one that felt most comfortable at higher speeds.
I considered the ACT gears but seems like a lot of expense and time. I'd rather just get a bike better suited to the intended use, or have multiple bikes. There is no unicorn.
The biggest thing for me these other bikes have over the DRZ, and the KTM in particular, is the light weight. It makes a YUGE difference off-road, but somehow still manages to feel very solid on the street. I wouldn't want to do long distance on the street due the vibrations through the pegs, but I didn't get the KTM for that purpose. I'm always going to have at least 2 bikes to cover different uses.
@@chasingtrail Thanks for getting back! Hope you can answer a couple more questions:
1. How did the CRF450L feel compared to the DRZ on the road and at 60 - 65 in particular?
2. How did the CRF450L feel compared to the KTM 500 on the road and at 60 - 65 again?
I really prefer the Honda (with the upgrades) to the KTM.
@@bicepusmaximus 1. Very comparable. The DRZ feels slightly more planted, likely due to the extra weight, but the 450L has a 6th gear and can go slightly faster comfortably.
2. 450L feels better than the KTM 500 on the road largely due to the lack of vibration on the 450L. I thought it vibrated a bit but it's nothing compared to the KTM. The KTM has considerable vibration, particularly through the footpegs.
Wait till you try the DR650
I had one previously. It's the one bike I really regret selling.
"you know , you really are an asshole , why don't you just shut up and sing the song pal " ... 😂 haha, just kidding. Great review.
Just wondering have you tried a Yam WR450 or KTM 450 ?
I have not had the opportunity, no. The WR450 can't really be made street legal here. Once in a great while I see someone who got away with it, but DMV could yank that plate at any time. As of model year 2022, even if I went out and bought a brand new WR450, I could not legally ride it at this OHV park. CA won't even issue OHV stickers for most offroad vehicles anymore unless they meet the Green sticker requirements, and few do.
@@chasingtrail Hmm , in the UK/Europe Wr450 ,CRF450,KTM500 are all sold as road/dual sport bikes there are full on Moto Cross versions for competition available also - no lights etc.
Completely normal for decel popping with carbs
Especially if you have a more performance oriented aftermarket exhaust. It won't hurt anything.
Good to know, thanks Daniel!
@@duko4423 Thanks Duko. It has the FMF Q4 slip on.
If it pops quite a bit, may check ur valve clearance Clarence
Makes me sad to see the honda go, haha but I rode my friends 300 ktm 2 stroke and I totally understand what you mean
I would love to ride one of those sometime. I've considered going that route and just trucking it to the OHV area. I really love the versatility of dual sports though.
Get a 400e. Then you’ll love it even more!!! Beast.
Hard to find around here. They haven't made them in a long time here. Also, not street legal, at least in my state.
@@chasingtrail yes so I believe. Still available here in Australia. Got a 2022 model just last year. Amazing bike.
@@MrShrimpy72 That's awesome, if I could get a new street legal E model I'd buy one today.
I run 15×41T sprockets on my DRZ400S works best for me :).
Sorry the rally doesn’t suit your needs sucks all the mods you did good luck with finding your next bike that works for you 👍🤟
I had just watched you video about the mods, you're a wiser man than I. For some reason I have fun doing this stuff, just wish it held more value. Hopefully I can find the right buyer who will appreciate this stuff. The Rally is an awesome bike! Hope I didn't shit on it too much. The DRZ is just a better match for me personally.
@@chasingtrail to each his own I’m going to make the rally work maybe add another bike later on you make me miss the drz I sold 👍🤟
you guys and your gas gauges... its a motorcycle, we learned as kids to take cap of and shake bike back and forth🤣
I just bought a brand new 2022 DRZ400 and noticed that it backfires too..
Good to know it wasn't just mine then. Grats on the new bike, I love the DRZ!
@@chasingtrail Thanks! I love it too. I'm wondering if doing the JD jetting would keep it from backfiring. It just means that extra fuel is getting into the exhaust and igniting, right? So, it's probably a fuel mixture issue from the stock jetting.
@@CoachSteve4u I am no expert on carbs and believe properly tuning them to involves some sort of voodoo ritual. Mine had JD jetting and still backfired. I was told it's normal.
@@chasingtrail Yeah its probably perfectly fine.
Mine backfires abit too but I just get all giggly when it backfires, feel like a kid again. I got a 2007 sm with the yoshi rs3 slip on
the whole mod thing is a joke, 95% of riders cant push the DRZ to its max to begin with...yet they want to squeeze out more HP. i have an 04 6500 stock no mods just reliability,i would add an FCR carb if they were prices of 8 yrs ago, btw euro bikes are trash unless you like spending gobs of money/time on one...
Disliked video for profanity not for content.
DRZ is way more capable than the cheap a$$ Hondogs... NO DEBATE