Things To Know When Buying A DR-Z400S
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- Опубликовано: 20 окт 2024
- In this video I talk about things you will need to know when buying a DR-Z400S. The bike is amazing off of the showroom floor, but there are a few mods that can really bring the bike to life.
Facebook - / coloradodualsport
My Bike : 2013 Suzuki DRZ 400s
Mods so far : D606 rear & TKC80 front - 3x3 mod and jetting - Chopped ugly rear fender - Devol Extreme Radiator Guards
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I purchased a 2002 DRZ400 about 4 months ago after some of my friends started getting into dual sport riding. I am 63 years old, I have ridden motorcycles since I was 16, I took about 20 years off of the dirt bikes until I bought the DRZ. I used to ride and race dirt bikes, When I purchased the DRZ I was not expecting much out of the bike. I just wanted to see if I could still ride off road and if I still liked it doing it without spending a lot of money. At first I was not that impressed, it was just a dual sport bike but the more time in the saddle the more impressed I am with the bike. I just rode my friends 2020 Husqvarna FE350 and to tell you the truth I liked the DRZ better. Yes the suspension was better on the FE but the DRZ had better power and just felt better all around, To tell you the truth I was hesitant to ride the FE, I knew that if I really liked it I would buy one and I didn't want to spend $13,000. A drag race on the street my DRZ will beat the FE by 30ft from zero to 70 MPH. the low end torques is a lot better too, so bottom line I see no reason spend the money on a newer bike , Thanks for listening, stay safe and have fun
That's awesome Frank! I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the bike. In one of my recent videos I had a similar experience on a Beta. Yeah it was fun to ride, but I was much more comfortable and happy on my DRZ.
Try the “purchase of prostitution”. We call it POP out here in San Antonio.
Just so you know this is the video that convinced me to buy my DRZ. Many thanks.
Man, I love getting these comments. I'm glad the video was able to help you make your choice! I have tons of others as well once you start getting the itch to kit her out! Congrats!
ME TO BRO
Gonna get one soon ^_^
Finally linked to this video in my "DRZ quick review" video. Still feel kinda bad about using the footage in two places... but hopefully people will find value in both videos. If you want me to take mine down I definitely can.
Thank you! About a year ago I was doing all of this research and trying to make a decision on which bike to buy! It's crazy that I've been riding for less then 1 year. My head spins when I try to think about everything I have learned. It has been a great journey.
I love my DR650.. with the Dunlop D606 at the rear and the Pirelli MT 21 Tire up front . A combo made in heaven
Yes I have same combo , good for dirt but horrible on road in twistIes.and speeds over 50.
@@westfletcher9219 i haven't really had a problem with them, although I'm not trying to drag a knee because i know the tires are not at all made for that, but they handle the road better than I thought. At 70 plus the front tire does hum a bit, but that's to be expected.
Dude, I'm 1:10 into your video and you just summed up every 20-min "should you buy a DRZ" video. That's a good educator who knows his craft, and his audience. Subscribed.
Jus found one, 6k miles. picking it up tomorrow. super excited
how much?
Yes, what was the price you paid? Going to look at 2014 for $4800. Guy says it only has 425 miles on it. Seems super low miles for a 6 year old bike.
Thanks, man... this was really helpful when choosing between a DR650 and DRZ400 as a second bike to compliment my V-Strom!! Between you, Hermit, and Everide, I got all I needed to know to choose a used DRZ! Luckily, I found one with most of the required mods already done, with the exception of the seat and the tank (Yoshi exhaust and header, jetting, bar risers, airbox, manual cam-chain tensioner, etc.) Your time and knowledge helped me greatly and I thank you for that! Great job, and keep up the good work (You do an awesome job... and that from a 27-year professional broadcaster!) Cheers, man!
Thank you sir! I just had to ban a guy for leaving an obnoxious comment then I read this and remember that people can still be awesome. Thank you very much. Glad we all could help. You are going to love that DRZ, they are amazing bikes.
I got a 18 drz my first street legal bike I love it. Just ordered a new pipe air filter and new jets can’t wait to get her out
Beautiful looking country, and I appreciate the commentary.
Thank you!
smart people that we are..... tons of research..... I have a doctorate in RUclips and a bachelors in Wiki. yes that must be me. lol
Ive been researching for 8 years now.
They keep changing and adding new models though!
But do you have a masters in Reddit?
i am wrapping up a dual dissertation of youtube in: motos/autos & guitars (4 & 6 strings)
this dude loves his motorcycle & i get it (good for him), but it seems he had to change or mod many features to get this happy. i suppose that’s the case with anything these days, but it seems that he had to do an awful lot to get comfy & confident with this machine. is this normal in Dual-Sport-Adventuring?
Lol
Yes, I have those as well. Additionally, my Google Fu is strong, and I follow my Gumby friends at CROSS TRAINING ENDURO SKILLS on YT.
Just want to say thanks for all the info and opinions you have on the bike. I have a "99 DR 350 SE that I love. I have been toying with getting a 400 but I am trying to decide if it's worth it and your videos have helped a lot! Also, I think it's awesome that your wife rides with you! My wife rides a TW 200 and all of my friends are jealous that she not only supports my riding, but rides with me as well. My 15 year old and 11 year old boys both have bikes as well and I cannot think of a better family activity than to ride together! Thanks for all of the videos and keep them coming!
As far as the tires, a common theme I'm hearing makes me offer up a tidbit of advice for everyone: I had the stock Death Wings for 8,000 miles. They tried to kill me many times, on-road and off-road. Since this is my first bike, I assumed it was all MY fault.
Then I wore them out and got a set of 606s on both ends. The ride home from the shop was hairy. It felt like it was floating. Oh yeah, it was also pouring rain in Texas where that doesn't happen every day. Anyways, the ride home and the first day or two were a bit... nervous... but I warmed up, and the tires broke in a bit, and now I cant imagine any other tire, on-road or off. They are FINE for on-road.
I know they say 90/10, but I never got hooked on hard-cornering a bike yet. I don't take on-ramps at 80 like some super bike friends I know. I can still take em at 50 on these knobbies. If you don't have ridiculous sport-bike cornering expectations and just drive like you have knobbies, you'll be FINE. Once they got about 100 miles on them they become very predictable. I spent a few moments in big parking lots getting used to them at speed... and rippingthrough industrial areas on weekends just getting used to the tires and how the bike handles on the road with them. you can totally learn to adapt to them.
Now, I make right hand turns from stop-signs with some drift action and often a low wheelie... if you work your way into it painfully slow over 8000-10000 miles you get a great confidence with the bike! AND, the BEST part is... in conjunction with my worst rider-fear... if I get run out into a median strip or onto the shoulder or a curb... I don't immediately wipe out in the grass... etc... I have had several near-misses that most people would have probably braced for impact, but I just made a right turn and went around. Several times now.
Also they are GREAT for getting through construction zones and when I'm going to a game or a concert and really could benefit from getting off the freeway and hitting the back streets for the last 2 miles of stopped traffic. I can scoot between guardrail gaps and fences and go where I need to. Suzuki DR-Z 400 S and 606s... ALL THE WAY!
I have 4000 miles on my Motoz Tractionators on my 2017 Triumph Tiger 800xcx! They are arguably the most aggressive DOT compliant knobbies for heavt ADV bikes! They perform a lot like you described and can't be happier! The only sketchy things about them (or with any knobbies) is when traveling over steel grated bridge decks!
From Colorado, just started riding off pavement, love it!!! Never ending trails in Colorado!! Riding a Royal Enfield Himalayan. Great video...
Yeah you can run tires backwards too the tread is only for the rain. I'm getting a second set of rims for my DRZ and puting a set of KR108 track slicks.
Some tires you can run backwards to regain the sharp edge, but the D606 isn't one of them. It's a directional tire. A second set of rims has been on my list since I got Xena, but I've never been able to stay off the dirt long enough to buy them haha!
Visiting Colorado and Utah is on my bucket list... because of youtube. Great Video !
Just picked up a 2015 drz400s. I'm 6 ft 167 lbs and the bike feels like heaven! Moved up from a 2007 virago xv250. Was a hard choice with all kinds of dual sports my local dealer had to offer but, all your video's and your buddies video's helped my find the right trail buster for me. Cuz my little virago hates my kind of fun haha
Awesome to hear man and glad i/we could help! Post some pictures to the Facebook when you get a chance!
ColoradoDualSport I don't have a Facebook:( but its the gray model, and now has 104 miles on it! Whoot whoot
on procycle.com they sell clutch/casing guards ,there thin pieces of metal that protect the motor from being punctured by the break lever and or shifter i highly recommend. also if your into knobby tires the star-cross is great for the front tire, and the Terra flex is the biggest and baddest rear tire your you purchase
My mods cont'd:
3x3 airbox, jetted carbs, Pro-taper bars with risers and bark busters, Scorpion rad guards, heavy duty wrap around skid pan, contoured stock seat, Skeene conspicuity lighting system with 6 running lights to wake up the brain dead 4 wheelers, and most importantly: a small windshield on the number plate to get the wind off my chest at speed. Yesterday I did 250km.(150 miles) of backroads..all pavement..total comfort....no fatigue.
A guy I know ran a 1988 DR600 around the world(over 100 countries)for 5 years...200,000km(125,000mi.).
Hey people don't be afraid to run one of these cheap and cheerful little beauties anywhere!
I had a drz400sm. I put 9000 miles on it which consisted of commuting to school, freeway riding from San diego to to central california, Black diamond trails (with off road rims), and 90mph sweepers. amazing bike. cant go wrong, just not even close to a racer.
But that's the thing! It's so versatile that it can do all of those things. It just doesn't focus on being amazing at one of them. I really do think it's one of the best starter dual sports you can buy. Once you own it you can tailor it to your riding preference and upgrade it how you see fit.
Thanks man, love the bike, I’ve been riding since 6 yrs old and have never owned a Suzuki and I’m looking for a DRZ 4 right now. Don’t know if you usually climb hills like that but word of advice, should crank it down a gear and wrap it up higher, it’ll save so many miles on that clutch. Thanks again for the info on the bike man
Thank you for creating this video! As a new rider I really appreciate the honest review.
+Johnny Park No problem man! Check out More Things To Know When Buying A DRZ for more! I also have the two Dual Sport Shootout videos which are packed full of info.
Yup, I just started following you, this is really great stuff. Keep it up!
People can find a lot to complain about with any bike. I prefer the manufacturer hit the price point with accessories that will get you through the initial period. Then you can build what you want. The higher cost bikes come with cool bits but they are not always what you want. Good advice.
Not really knowing what I was getting into when I bought Xena kind of worked to my benefit. I've been able to learn and from that knowledge build the bike I want. It's a very expensive hobby, but on the weekend when you are out on that trails the smiles and fun you have are worth every penny.
Thank you sir! Yes, that D606 is beast! I think you will love them.
I have a DRZ 125L with a pro circuit exhaust and motocross tires and with just those two things its one of the best off-road bikes I've ever ridden.
Very nice man! Ride Safe!
Great review! Looking for a DRZ myself now.
Why thank you! Yes, I think my riding has gotten a little more aggressive then the TKC80 can really handle up front. The funny thing is, she really doesn't mind the difference between 11k and 5k down at home. Now that I have everything set up properly I don't notice much of a difference at all.
Great video CDS. Absolutely right regarding how overlooked Radiator guards tend to be in a build-up.
Kenda K270 are a good choice for DRZs too. A set, new tubes and rim strips can be had for about $120, mounting not included. FCR pumper carbs can be had off ebay for $150. Probably better than 3x3 and jetting.
👍👊🇺🇲 you know I've been here a long time. This is about three or four times I have watched this video from back in the day. Peace out✌️🇺🇲
Thank you man! I still can't belive this video got as big as it did. It brought a lot of new people to the channel. Happy New Year!
@@ColoradoDualSport Happy New Years👍👊🇺🇲
I had the 02 e version , but occasionally road on the road anyway . It was my second out of 8 bikes and I enjoyed it . My only complaint is that it is under powered for my taste but its not bad . The bike is bullet proof & very reliable and fun to ride . If I had the chance to get another one to bump around on I would .
Nice vid. I have trail wings on my dr650 and had no problems with them. Rode in rain, up steep muddy hills, gravel and up a hill of wet grass. Never did it slip or slide.
richard rosario Awesome to hear man! However I beg you to try a set of D606's and do the same. I think you'll be shocked at the difference.
so glad I found your videos. been looking at a leftover 2016 but had my doubts as im 6'2" 290lbs. I think I will go with the 400
Nice! Watch More Things To Know and pay close attention to the seat upgrade ;-)
Go the dr650 if your tall & can ride better then a beginner
I suggest that you look up cross training enduro/ cross training adventure
Barry runs both channels & know his shit with the drz400 & the dr650
No matter what your get 400/650 check out his channels & how to unleash the hidden beast
Even shows you how to turn the stock suspension into basically a closed cartridge fork
Check it out & keep it upright
Good video to cover the basics of the DRZ. The failed hill climb was rider error too. Learn to slip the clutch and rev the engine into the power band. The DRZ would have made that hill if it wasn't being lugged down to idle.
Hahaha! This video was from 2013 when I was a new rider. Things have improved drastically since then, but thanks!
@@ColoradoDualSport good to hear. I was more trying to say the bike is capable.
@@alexrateliff4784 oh yeah! I was agreeing with you that it was riders error.
you aren't too far away from me... I'm down in southern CO, I just bought a drz400s... I found a 2001 with only 800 miles in showroom condition.... got a great deal... and now I'm looking at how to get it dialed for me... I'm small... 130 lbs and the suspension feels a little stiff off road... not sure yet if or how to adjust.... it came with stock tire up front and full on motocross rear..... strange, but like you talked about.... the front tire isn't so bad with all the power and grip in the back.... but yes washes out in sand... it will take little while to customize, but I'm excited.... this thing goes anywhere and with authority.... man its got some torque, it feels like I'm accelerating a road bike when I'm off road.... fast machine... but kinda clanky sometimes... will have to go over it and get the shakes out... . that tool kit probably needs to go and I can put my different shades in there...... anyway, cool vid and its fun to see more enthusiasts... and hear what other people are doing... I also cut off the plastic monkey tail :) and I actually shorted the chain gaurd as it looked like a tail as well.. but I can't barely go a day without getting on it and ripping... I find I can even sit sometimes in rough sections.... so far I actually like the stock seat... but I haven't gone far. The seat you have does look more comfy, but I hesitate to get one with a dip in the middle because I like how on the straight stock seat there are so many comfortable positions when off road. I also have a 84 xl 350r that I will match up with my drz in gearing and everything.... right now it has motocross gearing so I can't wait to get it back to dual sport set up. Anway, cheers man!!
Right on man, congrats on the bike! I ended up loving the full set of D606's in the end. Also, the seat concepts seat doesn't have a dip in the middle, it gets skinnier width wise where your legs go when you stand up and is fatter towards the back. I 110% recommend it.
@@ColoradoDualSport I've been hearing more and more about the d606's and I will def check out that seat!! thx
Sorry old bean but your first statement is absolute mis-informantion! DRZ is a famous long-haul ride! I have a friend who took one around the world for 5 years....200,000 km with only one top-end rebuild.
I have an '07 DRZ400S that I ride almost exclusively on road...long adventures....73,000km so far.With 80/20 tires, an absolutely essential small windshield to get the wind off my chest, and some major modifications to the seat, it's a smooth, reliable little babe.
My big gripe is with the stock close ratio gearing....ridiculous with such a torquey, forgiving engine. Right now I've got her split down the middle..installing ACT wide ratio gearset. With 14/47 sprockets she'll be my perfect all-rounder. Inspection of the internals shows virtually no deterioration. She'll be good for as long as I need 2 wheeled freedom.
Absolutely! For the right size person that is true to a fault. For me however it just isn't true. After 250 miles my bones feel like they are trying to get out of my skin. However after 500+ miles on my AT I can get off and feel refreshed. Again all about the right fit for the person. I still love my DRZ and ride it every chance I get, but I'm no longer trying to make it a distance adventure tourer.
atta babe!
@@ColoradoDualSport if it's too loud your too old. In other words if your bones are poppin out your body you need to stay away from dual sport machines
ColoradoDualSport - me too, man. i can’t ride for more than an hour on anything before i’m ready for a stretch of everything...and i know a 65+ yr old dude that will take off from Atlanta GA area & will make for Alaska on a brand new, yet modded American cruiser. i’m better off-road, because i’m not stuck in one position, i suppose. i’m 6’6” @ 240lbs, so nothing fits me in the cycle world except for the older (late ‘90s) H-Busas & R1s, giant “Harleys,” and BMW Rs. how tall are you & are there any other D-Sport bikes you could point me toward (minus KLRs) that may better suit me?
Hey there neighbour....I'm right there with you in loving my DRZ400..as you say "an amazing little bike". What you got very wrong is that it's not for long distance highway use. With the proper upgrades and mods I ride mine almost exclusively on the road....a lot. Now over 47,000km.(30,000 mi.)on the clock.
My mods: Kenda K761 tires, full FMF Powercore exhaust, Clarke 16 litre(4 gallon) tank,
picknngrinn Awesome, and I'm glad you are enjoying your DRZ! Yes, I agree that you can make it better for exclusive on road use, but I still feel that the bike is a little light and lacking in power for long distance highway rides. I know there have been times where I couldn't maintain 75mph (speed limit) as the wind would be holding me back. Now if we are talking back roads? Oh heck yes. Even with D606's I love to carve me a mountain road.
Hi . Bridgestone Trail wings are excellent Tire. you cannot have your tires up to 30 lb for the road and have them expect them to do their job in the dirt you got at least running between 18 to 20 lb for off road. I run that presser on my KLX and I have absolutely no issues with my tires.
The 3x3 mod and increasing the main jet size will surely do two things for you: Increase the fuel consumption and lower the resale value. Let the engine "breath better" is gibberish unless you take it up in the real high revs. No need at all for extra breathing at low to mid revs.
Sorry, but you are 100% wrong. You need oxygen to make a boom and you need a boom to make the bike run. More air +more fuel means bigger boom. Simple enough? Also, riding between 8,000 and 14,000 feet above sea level means far less oxygen, so the more air you can push through means the more power you can sustain at higher altitudes. Look up carb lock for more information. Nothing about the 3x3 and jetting is gibberish. It's proven fact.
The restriction on the engine in a normal situation is not the dimensioning of the airway, it's the position of the throttle. Only at full throttle opening will the size of the rest of the airway have a noticeable bearing on how much fuel mixture the engine can inhale.
Nikolai
Thats true.
Nikolai Grut Weather you accept it or not there is more air and fuel going through your engine at all times with that modification. Have a stock drz400s 00 model and a fully souped up (3x3,jet,exhaust, and aftermarket radiator) drz400s 02 model and the stock drz doesnt even remotely compare to one that has been modified. They are both geared the same (smaller sprockets for acceleration) and the drz02 wants to do a wheelie 24/7 while the drz00 still wants to wheelie but not near as badly. Long story short there is a very noticable difference with these modifications.
Is this a joke ?
I would like to buy two DR Z 400’s, I want to drive the backroads from Sioux City, IA to the Black Hills with my son.
I would have to disagree on the long distance highway riding. With a better seat, larger fuel tank, basic performance mods and some luggage this thing has no problem cruising as far as you want to take it. Its only limit is its riders endurance. Lower the final drive ratio a bit if the higher rpms make you nervous. I realize all these mods can put it closer to the price range of something designed for highway riding but you wont get the dirt performance out of some of the bigger heavier bikes.
Also a fender eliminator is a must. The stock fender and taillight is damn ugly. If your going to spend $100 on vanity item make it a fender eliminator, it improves the look 100%
Great video, thank you! Hey where is this beautiful scenery?
Thank you! This is squaw pass near Idaho springs CO.
You don't *have* to replace the seat. If you've got hemorrhoid cream.
the rear original tyre on my drz400e lasted only 500km. and i now have the same rear as you 1000km still doesn't even look worn. great tips mate
great channel man! I want a dual sport like whatttttt! nice vid! :)
EN187 Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it! Check out More Things To Know too.
ColoradoDualSport
Will do!
I want one bad, I rode a smaller kawasaki 2stroke as a youngster. My uncle drove the semi that carried the top riders bike around the supercross circuit for Suzuki. Got to see Ricky Carmichael win the SX for Suzuki. Saw Jeremy McGrath in his prime as well take a SX.
Love the Video . Good info .. here us a useful tip for you
Get the Kenda k760 trackmaster 2, next time, I love it and I think its better than the 606, and half the price, I'm talking free shipping to your door for 60 bucks.
Also Get Case savers for your left side the gear shifter has a tendency to dig in the case if you drop the bike on the left side and the oil will come out and leave you stranded, it happened to my friend one day on the trail , lucky was close to the house !
Just picked mine up today!!! 2017 black with the blue and grey logo
I got it up to 89! I’m also 230lbs!
_I agree with the seat part_ 😂
great video, what seat did you put on, i put a seat concepts on but no better then stock for me.
One of these days I'm going to buy one of those DRZ-400s. I'm sure it would be a great off-road bike. But for now, I'll just keep riding my old sportster with dual sport tires off-road. It's all I've got to ride. It definitely has enough torque and power, but on the trails it's a bit of a handful. It will do it, but you have to take it easy. So I'm thinking a DRZ-400 would be perfect instead, whenever I get the money to buy one. The only problem is I'm not sure how good a DRZ-400 is going to be for longer trips on the road.
Hey, when you have two wheels to ride it isn't all that bad right? They may not be prefect, but at least you are out having fun. The DRZ isn't great for long road trips. It will do it without a problem, but your butt might hurt a bit. Post a picture of the current bike to the Facebook if you can. I'd love to see it!
ColoradoDualSport facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10206771173262408&l=24d9b5d723
That was taken last September, before I got the tires. And even then, I was using that bike off-road a little bit! It was ok on gravel roads and mild trails. Believe it or not, sportsters were not designed originally as 'cruisers', but more of a do whatever you want with it' type of bike.
Trevor Jameson and this is the bike I had back in 2002. I put a Baja designs street legal kit on it.. Overall though, this bike was not that great of a dirt bike or street bike.
facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1758401404317&l=5f27fb5fe0
The other problem I have with my drz is the tool kit supplied with it. Any bolt that is small gets stripped when you use tools given. Do yourself a favor and toss the 8mm socket, 10 and 12mm wrenches.
The 606 won Baja that’s a great choice! If y’all run the sm forks then it’s really a solid bike for hard off-road use!
The thing that stuck out the most to me on this video, is that you checked out every possible entry point to the road you are on, the glimpses were quicker when there was more potential hazards. This video should be made available for training road riders, the chances of surprising you on the road are low.
Haha! Well that is a very unique comment. Thank you! I always try to stay alert while riding. I'm also always looking for trail entrances.
Thanks man! Can't wait until dueling DRZ's next year!
D606 set rules! stiff sidewall can run 17lbs pressure
Try the combo of d606 rear and the pirelli mt21 front. I've tried a lot of different tires and that is by far my favorite combination for my drz
Excellent choice of rear tire my man, the D606 is a hard one to beat. Interestingly, and surprisingly, I found that Lafawnduh does great with a Kenda trackmaster front. Who'd of thunk it? If the price is right (motorcycle super store) it might be a consideration for you in the distant future.
I'm picking up my "new" leftover 2014 DRZ-400S tomorrow morning! Suzuki had a $1500 rebate for the '14, with 0% finance rate.. How could I turn that down for a brand new bike? Anyway, can't wait to get it and ride! Of course I will keep my Sportster for riding road trips, but this dual sport is going to be a blast.. it's been 10 years since I had my DR650, so I'm more than ready to get back on a trail bike and have some fun in Colorado this summer.
I hope so! There are so many things that can be done that it's tough to cover them all in one sitting. As I said, I will be doing updates and I get stuff done.
Awesome vid! I plan on getting a used one since i'll soon have my L's. You can find really nice deals around around with low ML and some mods already installed. Got a question though, what's your gearing set? Do you switch sprockets before getting to the dirt? I reckon E's gearing is taller than the S's thus not so good for freeway...
I run the stock S gearing and haven't had any problems. Unless I'm climbing near vertical I rarely have to feather the clutch. I may at some point change it up to get a little more low grunt, but for now she's perfect. Congrats on the bike! Post pics on the Facebook when you get her.
So what your trying to say is the bike is restricted when you buy it, Is the motor a 4 valve head and what type of carby comes with the bike?
Wow!! Beautiful countryside....I'm stuck down here in Florida...flat sand bar and at Sea Level...yuck!! At your altitute you might have to adjust the carborater.
Great job on the review. I think all bikes needs some type of mod to make it what it should be. I know my Honda was stock when I bought it and I have done some mods but I think that's what makes it fun. stay safe
Tankerman I think they leave the DRZ the way it is from the factory to make it as easy as possible to convert into the type of bike you want it to be. When I got Xena I could see that she was a blank slate just waiting for me to customize to my liking. An expensive blank slate, but a killer one at that!
Nice video, I'm looking at getting a DRZ because I'm smart like you said, (lol). I didn't grow around dirt bikes and test drove one yesterday, boy does it ride differently than my KLR. I think this will make a much better off-road oriented bike than my big ass Kawasaki (though I'm keeping both).
Honestly, the DRZ is much more capable off-road. The KLR is a good off-road bike, but the DRZ is just better by design plain and simple.
really trying to decide between this and a wr250r...
blackhatch46 I strongly suggest you watch Part 2 of the Dual Sport Shootout video on my channel. It will have tons of good info for you.
blackhatch46 well the wr250 is modern and fuel injected so that's a HUGE plus. The DRZ hasn't really been modernized for what 15+ years? yeah there were some small changes here and there but nothing major. Don't be confused by the CCs. Although the DRZ is 400 the WR250r keeps pace. Performance modding on the DRZ is kinda cheaper, but also be aware that you'll need to learn how to clean a carb. Also the WR is considerably lighter.
Pan da you should really go ride both bikes before you start giving advice. The wr250r is a great bike but it in no way keeps pace with the DRZ 400s. if you need proof go watch hermits video of our drag race. the WR is lighter and is better for more technical terrain, but the DRZ is much more powerful and much better for for bigger guys riding off road. when I rode hermits WR I felt like I was on a mountain bike instead of a dirt bike. also Xena has 11,000 miles on her and I have not yet clean the carburetor.
I have and if it comes down to a drag race than ok. But in general trails yes in does keep pace. The real difference on the trails comes down to the rider's skill IMHO anyways. But I guess it's subjective anyways...
Pan da Well you said power wise they are the same, and that's just not true. I have 100lbs on hermit and I still won the race. In trail terms that means I would be able to tackle a steeper trail no? Sorry, I didn't mean to be so harsh. I just don't like seeing misinformation given as I have to wade though it myself when looking things up. They both are great bikes and it's all very dependant on rider size. I think my original comment saying watch the second shoot out video will give the best information the OP can get.
Good review man. I'm seriously looking at this bike. It's this or the Honda CRF250L.
Thanks man! The CRF is a very reliable bike as well. The only bad things I've heard are that they are heavy.
ColoradoDualSport They are a bit heavier in comparison to the WR, but compaired to the DRZ meh...
I rode the crf250l for a few months and all I can say is they shift rough, and some things are just loose. Loose as in things rattle such as the break/clutch levers. I though bolts were coming loose a couple times, but nope, even several mechanics said some things just rattle on the CRF250ls.
On the plus side the CRF250L is a great learner bike. smooth throttle makes it real nice for the timid learner. Heck you can really get going by just easing out the clutch without throttle.
wickedout2010 crf all day for me
Pan da I've heard the crf responds well to sweet shifts not ideal for beginners. Not that you are beginner pal like u said they are rough
Yep, another thing on the list to look into.
How is this in the desert? I live in Vegas and I’m really not gonna be in the forest, riding on harsh roads, etc. But I will occasionally be taking trips to family in California
In other words, do you set your jetting for 8 thousand feet or so? Or do you jet yours differently for high mountains vs 5200ft
I want some wide foot pegs for my 2019 Drz. Any suggestions? The drc pegs look really spiky, like too aggressive idk heat to get. Thanks
The MSR's are really nice. It all comes down to personal preference though. Anything wider then stock will feel much better.
Knight Design. 1.5" lower, nice & wide, few different tread designs. Rather expensive, but worth it for me at 6'2". With 1.5" bar risers & tall seat they completely changed the bike's ergos.
Nice video.I'm in search for an inexpensive dual sports motorcycle to build up my off road skills. 0 experience on off road. At the same time, I need something which I can ride on street to a ATV/motorcycle park here in FL.
I'm preparing for a US- Canada trip on my GS 1200.
+usb6009 Well you may want to look into a KLR if it's the GS you want those skills for. The DRZ is more of a trail bike and won't be nearly the same as riding the GS offroad. The KLR is much bigger and more bulky and I think the skills you learn might translate better in the end.
Great bike. Buy one and you need to change everything?
What kind of seat did you put it on.
im planning to buy a new drz 400 s, thanks for video
I have a DRZ 400s just bought a BMW sentao 650 GS what do you thing about that bike? Just looking for your thoughts on it. Still have my DRZ and i love it. love your channel as well love your videos
Well, BMW's come with a stigma in the dual sport world. I don't mind them, but I've never ridden one to be honest.
Well i guess i will have to let you know about the sertao g650gs Love all your videos,keep them coming. i really enjoy watching them.
Is it worth buying it new now after so many other bikes have FI? You still have it?
how does it perform in high altitudes? I live in the colorado springs area and i am interested in a DRZ400.
do the 3x3 MOD you will be good
road riding has its place but trail riding is whats it 👍
I defied death with the trailwings until they wore out. Did a lot of road though, and trail. Some nearly trail. Now with the dunlops I trail ride with ease. I get head shake but only above 80-85.
LOL! You sir deserve trophies! Glad you made it out alive.
what year DRZ should i look at? like what year should i start at? i want something newer but not exactly 2014
Extremely new to riding, possibly getting my first bike tomorrow! Drz 400s 2019.😎 i plan on riding on dirt trails and forest roads in socal with occasional desert trips. Which have both dirt and sand. I really like the d 606 for the rear, bit what would you reccomend for the front. I really donr want it to wash out and effect my confidence as a new rider both on and off the road! Any information will be greatly appreciated! Subbed!!!
Thanks man! If you plan to Ride primarily dirt, go for the full D606 set. It can't be beat. Congrats on the new bike!
@@ColoradoDualSport thanks for the tip! I will most likely have them put on at the dealer. So thats all ill know for now!
@@ColoradoDualSport what tire pressure are you running in the d606's for street vs off road? Should be swapping out the tires soon.
I run 18/18 on the D606 regardless of terrain. However, I don't ride a lot of road if possible on Xena.
Sand is a tricky ride . Find a good how to video
well I added a pipe and Dunlops. now just Jet kit and 3x3 mod. then I will head to colorado for some exploring and panning,
Awesome man, congrats on the upgrades! You will love those D606's in the dirt.
Colorado looks like eastern wa. Great video. Hope to have a DRZ real soon.
How’s the carb been in the colder temps? Any issues?
I haven't had any carb issues at all. Just jetting correctly for altitude.
Lived in the high rockies, theres a great little trail that goes to an old mining operation in leadville called Mayflower Gulch. Check it out.
Brett Szczepanski Is this something Stace and I should do or something Hermit and I should do?
I'm unfamiliar with their skills, but I'll tell you I got my subaru forester through it. Its a beautiful ride. Hope that helps
Brett Szczepanski Stace is a new rider and Hermit has been riding longer then I have. If you got a Subaru though it she should be just fine. Thanks for the heads up! Ps.Hermit and I ride stuff monster trucks shy away from lol!
Where do you take the bike for the jetting? Just the dealership?
Not sure if you have any experience with the WR250R and the CRF250L, but would you say there is a big difference between the 250 dual sports and the 400? being my first bike i`m not sure if a 400 would be to much. I also live in Georgia so im sure the trails are not as intense as what you are riding out that way
justin schell There is a huge power difference. It really depends on you. If you are a smaller guy one of the 250's is most likely just fine. If you like to brapp and like a bit of go fast then the 400 is where it's at. I'm 6'3 and 300lbs and Xena is perfect for me. She goes fast enough to survive on the highway (which a 250 wouldn't) and has the low end grunt to pull me up some seriously steep hills here in CO. It really depends on what you will use the bike for.
Please could you link that video you spoke of where he explains jetting? cant find it
2002 DRZ 400, only a 3x3 mod, i got it up to 114 everything else was stock.
bot a 2015 drz s in fall of 2017.After 12,000 km riding around on the back roads of Mexico and the amazing Copper Canyon ,have only done one MOD. My bike was coughing and lack of power at 6000ft plus elevation .I did the 3x3 MOD in the parking lot with a leatherman tool and could believe the difference in performance.
Nice road and scenery.
How do the d606s do at highway speeds? I really don't want speed wobble... I just got a 2007 drz with 700 miles on it and my intent is to use it as my daily commuter and go up for riding on weekends. Any tire recommendations for something that grips but won't give me speed wobble?
Other then some knobbie vibration I haven't experienced any speed wobble with the full set of D606's. Honestly they are really the only tire I would use for any type of Colorado offroading. They have the beef needed to ride on our rocky terrain and not end up flat but run on the road just fine for short trips. I ride about 45 min from my house up to Rampart Range on E470 at 75mph with no issues.
Have you done anything with the rear shock? I'm 175 lbs, and the rear spring is a bit soft for me, the front forks are usable. I rode a friend of mine's bike with full race-tech suspension, and I'm telling you, that's the next best thing to changing the stock tires.
mrpotatoheadracing Nope the suspension is all stock even now. It's adjusted as tight as it can go for the moment. I want to do a full suspension on her, but that's $1,000 I don't have laying around at the moment. Some day!
Great Vid. I'm just now looking at the DRZ400 and learning. Can you explain the difference between the S and E, and, pros and cons to each. I came across a 'street legal' E model which, to my understanding, is the non street legal model? Also, pros and cons for kick start. Thanks again for a great vid.
Sorry for the late reply! I've been down in New Mexico with YamaJoe. The E model was only sold in Europe and does not meet the US standards for emissions and therefore isn't street legal. Mainly the difference between the S and E is that the E has a larger carb and beefier stock exhaust. There may be a few more in depth details, but those are the major ones. The S now has the E suspension so that is a mute point. As for kick start it can save you if your battery dies. However, big 400cc 4-strokes are a serious pain to kick start. Xena does not have the kick start option and I've never had an issue. If I were to ever need to I could just bump start her with the clutch in 3rd gear. So in conclusion the E will have a little bit more "stock" power then the S, but with a few mods that you will do anyway there is really no MAJOR difference.
Funny I was just looking up the Drz400 and I live in Tulsa Oklahoma but I've actually been up mount evens Lol small world ...keep the good vids coming
Thanks for the support! Let me know if you have any questions. if I can't answer them I'm sure I know people who can.
i have kenda 90/10 true off rd tire fine on the rd kedas r cheap and good
Hello, i have a 2014 drz400s the seat is less then comfortable, do you think a gel seat -1 inch for my short legs would be better? And what brand seat. I went and looked at the 606 and that will be replacing the stock tire when the time comes, thank you, Rick.
Richard Eckrote jr. Awesome! Glad to see you went with the DRZ. Now that I've gotten to know a few guys with DRZ's pretty well and especially after sitting on eveRide's seat out in Moab I'm going to be making a change myself. Right now I have the Saddleman Adventure Track Seat which is nice, but eveRide's seat concepts seat blew it away! The Seat Concepts is much wider near the back of the seat which keeps it from spreading your hip bones apart, which is the real problem with the stock seat. Now eveRide had the Gel seat before and said it was nicer then the stock, but not anywhere as near as good as the SC. I'll be picking one up very soon in tall (I'm 6'3) so it'll have a little extra cushion. Be careful on those Death Wings! Feel free to post a picture on my facebook. The link is in the description.
My buddies and I call it "setting the hook" when your front tire gets good grip :) Very informative man!
I'm a bigger guy, 225 lbs, and am looking into this bike. I'm also looking at a BMW F800GS, but for the amount of riding that I'd be doing, the BMW might not be in the budget.
CrispyBacon Check out the two Dual Sport ShootOut videos on my channel. They may give you more food for thought on what bike will be best for you. There is a HUGE difference in capability between a DRZ and GS.
the fmf pipe really makes a difference because it does not have a cat converter in it unlike ur stock exhaust...
Yeah, and the difference is insane. Talk about uncorking a bike!
I've been through all of that .... I've had no issues. I am an average rider that has become much better because of the squared off profile of that tire ... resisting the possibility of washing out drastically ... Especially in gravel or sand.
Thanks for the info man. I might just have to give them a shot next round.