Five Things I LOVE About My Suzuki DRZ400

There are many things to love about a dual sport motorcycle as amazing and capable as the Suzuki DRZ400, but I've done my best to narrow them down to the top 5 best things I love about my Suzuki DRZ400s. In this vid, we'll talk about the many amazing features of all the different versions of the DRZ (DRZ400E, DRZ400S, and DRZ400SM) and the fantastic versatility of this great dual sport bike. Few motorcycles I've ridden can compare to the pure joy that comes from riding a DRZ. The DR-Z 400 has a throttle that just begs to be twisted, and no matter if you're riding on road, off road, on the highway, or deep in the backcountry on some trails, this bike has more smiles per mile than any other I've ever ridden. The DRZ is also insanely versatile and capable of filling many roles including commuter bike, adventure bike, motocamping machine, dedicated trails bike, and many more. Of all the motorcycles I've owned in my life, the DRZ may be my favorite, and in this video I'll explain all the reasons I love my Suzuki DRZ 400S.
This video is only half of the picture, though. Make sure you check out the "5 Things I Hate About My Suzuki DRZ400" video so you get the complete DRZ400 review picture: • Five Things I HATE Abo...
Suzuki DRZ400 Mods Overview Video: • My Suzuki DRZ400S Mods...
#drz #drz400 #suzukidrz400
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Suzuki DRZ400S Mods:
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[@hillquestdualsport]

Tomorrow is my NEW BIKE DAY. Yes, I finally get to pick up my 2021 DRZ400s and I am so stoked.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Dude, sweet! Congrats!

[@jimperry4420]

Is it awesome?

[@kdenmoto9653]

Just bought a DRZ a few weeks ago after years of riding big, heavy, fast bikes. The DRZ makes me feel like a kid again. It’s great.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's so fun!

[@lightninsadventures2692]

I am officially part of the drz400 community as of today. Can't wait to see what adventures I go on

[@DorkintheRoad]

awesome! Welcome!

[@joelstephens8708]

DRZ is the meeting point between power/weight/use/reliability Lightweight enough cut up singletrack, enough power to dice with much bigger bikes, and Japanese bikes, it's starts every time. The essence of dual sport

[@DorkintheRoad]

You nailed it.

[@Dan-56]

In 45 year of riding motorcycles, owned over 14 different brands, and I dare not say how many total number of bikes 😱, and the DR-Z is one of only two bikes I liked so well I’ve owned them twice 😜. Bought a “S” model in 2016, “fixed” its fueling issues, rode it for a couple of years and came the the realization that even though my brain was saying “You’re 16 🤪!”, my body was telling me I was actually 60 🙁, so I sold it, regretted selling it, so in 2020 I purchased an “SM” model 😃👍.

[@TheSniffter]

excellent decision

[@222wheelsdown]

Hey what are some differences between the S and the SM model for the DRZ? Looking to purchase my dual sport and idk too much about the SM model

[@Dan-56]

@@222wheelsdown ; The “S” is the dual sport version with 21” front and 18” rear wheels, the “SM” model is the SuperMoto version that comes with 17” wheels front and rear. (The “SM” also comes with a slightly “higher spec” inverted front fork.)

[@shadow105720]

@@Dan-56 the sm fork is only "better" on road. Real off road and jumps you want the S suspension.

[@ronsexton3685]

Do you still have it and do you do any offroad with it? Thinking the seat height is not bad and could put dirt tires on it, or get an extra set of wheels with dirt tires. Better brakes, inverted forks, a better for me seat height (age mid 60's), so just wondering.

[@justinmccoy7167]

I have run DRZ400s for almost 20 years and still own the first one I bought brand new in 2002. I have gone waaay off the beaten path and have never been concerned about breaking down. I have even taken them from TX to 12k ft in CO without a new jet and she had enough torque to overcome the loss from altitude. Great bikes.

[@ardiganm697]

As someone who's owned a 2007 KLR, 2012 XR, and 2 DR's 2013 & 2019. Now that I'm getting older the smaller lighter bikes that my friends let me ride have convinced me they are the future of Dual Sport enjoyment. I never cruise at faster than 65 mph. That's really the major benchmark for top cruising speed for me here in the US.

[@ronsexton3685]

So what do you have now?

[@spookychief]

Wherever I'm riding the drz I have the biggest grin in the world! I wish my helmet was transparent so everyone could see my stupid smiling face lol.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I feel the same way.

[@jeremybrunes38]

I have been riding the honda XR 650l but my buddy got my son on his drz 400 his first time so after watching this tells me my son who is now 17 and 6 foot 3 will be getting a drz 400 this sunmer! Thanx man good video!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@peterbrophy9442]

Jeremy, I have a deposit on 2021KLX Camo, just waiting for the arrivals 🇨🇦 maybe end of March - but I hope I can test ride the DRZ400 before to be sure I don’t regret it. I’m a big guy like DorkInTheRoad, so it’s got me very curious to compare the two.

[@BoyFindsTako]

I feel the same...I’m selling my cruiser because I never ride it. It’s so heavy and so much work to ride. My favorite bike to ride over all the bikes I have ever owned.

[@chadwickchaplin375]

My local dealer called me today letting me know that they finally have one back in stock. Immediately put a deposit down to secure it and am picking it up tomorrow. Damn I’m excited.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Hell yeah, man!

[@hpiproceed97pcp20]

I love my drz400 I’ve been following you since the crf250L which I bought and didn’t like I then went ahead and bought the drz400 and man I can’t stop smiling when I ride !

[@DorkintheRoad]

Such a fun bike!

[@l1qu1dm3t4lIV]

I am part of the DRZ choir, preach to me, brother! lol

[@DorkintheRoad]

You know what I'm talking about! ;)

[@CraigSmith568]

I have a SM version and it is a blast. I love that it is carbureted. So cheap and easy to change the fueling if I make a mod.

[@michaelhodges8312]

The 2020 scheme is the best year. I love my 2020 400s after 500 miles! Agree with you on everything. Fixing to do my first oil change at 600 miles. I just have to work on quieting down my Duval skid plate. Real noisy from vibration. Bought some window seal foam I’ll put in between plate and frame. Hopefully it will quiet it down. Wish I had that beautiful country to ride in.🏍😊

[@DorkintheRoad]

I think they really nailed the aesthetics in 2020, for sure.

[@ohot0]

I just did that a couple of days ago.I used half inch thick by one inch wide window seal closed foam.Lined the entire lower plate,then a car jack to press plate against frame and tightened the bolts.Huge difference in sound.

[@mikebrown4429]

I've had my drz for almost 3 years now , so much fun . It has 2 years on the ACT wide ratio gear set now , no problems and i don't use the clutch very much . I have a big bore kit waiting to be installed . To many other mods to list . Bought it new . Oh i run 14/48 sprockets and beat the crap out of this thing regularly .

[@JustinHuhn]

Great video. New DRZ owner and I’m in love. The low-end torque is fantastic. VERY fun first motorcycle. Thanks for the inspiring content!

[@DorkintheRoad]

You picked a great bike! Enjoy it!

[@xXkram225Xx]

When I bought my 2006 DRZ in the fall. The next day I went off-roading and dropped it 5 minutes into it then again at the end when it was sloppy muddy and bent the handlebars😅 so I proceeded to order new tires the next day after that. Been tons of fun so far even on ice. Rule number one about the bike. GET RID OF THOSE STOCK TIRES if you value your life

[@DorkintheRoad]

Couldn't agree more. I had new tires ordered before I even picked up the bike.

[@deltabravo1257]

I have a 2002 DRZ S model that I’ve owned since 2006. I still love the back as a much as when I bought it. NEVER run fuel with ethanol in it unless you like rebuilding the carb and replacing the fuel petcock because they both failed and dumped due into the cylinder and filled the crankcase.

[@ThatGuy-Noob_69]

Just wanted to say you are a legend... I watch all you content and you are my inspiration for getting back to adventure. Used to have a dirt bike and have missed it since did some research on duel sports (by finding your videos) annnnnd I just got my very own DRZ 400s so all I can do is thank you so much for just being a straight up guy.... and keep being "excellent" Ps. This is my very first motorcycle.

[@DorkintheRoad]

That's awesome! Do you mind if I share your comment to inspire others?

[@ThatGuy-Noob_69]

@@DorkintheRoad I would love that.. more people need to see the beauty which lays off the beaten path.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you!

[@keninthewind6216]

Hey Ben, I just picked up a 2020 and I am loving it!

[@shawnolson4522]

You sold at "Caveman" I too think the black one looks the best though that gray one is nice too. I also like the white one :)

[@DorkintheRoad]

Gray one is very nice, too.

[@danielbridgewater3444]

I love my DRZ because it's a hot babe magnetic. Even more so than my T-dub.

[@teags603]

Well I broke. I was planning on getting a KLX300, had a deposit on one, but you sold me. Just picked up a black 2020 DRZ400s. Took a rip up the road a lot more fun than my CRF250L!! Thanks for the tips!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Awesome. Congrats!

[@coryboyd7958]

I love mine! Would love it more with a 6th gear!

[@electricharmonyac7354]

thankyou for the inspiration. ive managed to talk myself out of a fancy high compression KTM or crf450l . my first bike was a klr 650 and i do miss tearing up trails and dirt roads ive been riding street bikes for ten years and i cant help thinking of my 650 every time i pass a dirt road when im out on an aimless motorcycle ride, sure speed is fun but if im honest with myself i can do speed in my car but not highspeed dirt road runs or single track trails . the drz Is a hansom bike once one replaces that gaudy European fender extension off the bike. Im battling myself wondering if i should get one now or wait till spring here in Michigan.... After quite a bit of research and speaking with friends ive decided to go with a DRZ400 over the new klr650 but certainly do look forward to more from you about the new KLR 650 and how you feel it compares to your trusty DRZ. I loved my Gen2 KLR650 and shes still in the back of my mind Im just disappointed that they didn't add a taller top gear to the newest rendition of the bike. Its a marvelously tourqy engine and could have always benefited from a taller top gear. they've had thirty years or so of sales to spend on R&D for a more highway worthy transmission.

[@EachAdventure]

Nice video dude! DRZ is a great bike but it's definitely not without it's flaws. Glad to see you are enjoying yours!

[@transitTrucker]

Many thanks. Great video.

[@KLRmurdercycle]

DRZ is part of the small group of bikes that were designed for riding far and often. If you want to do that on a modern bike, you have to get a twin and that means $20k

[@DorkintheRoad]

My Twin only cost me 10k ;)

[@KLRmurdercycle]

@@DorkintheRoad 😆 shmarty pants

[@grandriver3152]

That was one artistic wipeout brother👍🌲☺

[@DorkintheRoad]

I'm like a ballerina when I crash. 😂

[@Hondeer]

I've put so many mods on mine and looking at current offerings with all the electronic go-wrongs... can't find a better manageable do-all Oregon bike.

[@markr8326]

Great video thanks! I have a '93 TTR 250, was looking at a 2003 DRZ 400 advertised close to me. I'm too old for Motocross now but wanted to try Grasstracking(UK style, basically motocross with no Jumps) do you think the DRZ would work well for competition ? 1) Looks like a great bike 2) prices seem good (vs TTR 600 etc)

[@fortheloveofknobs]

Damn! That slide at 6:10 looked like a butt pucker moment! =D The mighty DRZ ticks all of the boxes, if only just the perimeter of said boxes! :)

[@DorkintheRoad]

It was pretty fun when it was happening

[@Sparktrician]

Question, just found your channel. I’ve been into ATV’s since 1987. Lately I have the bug for a dual sport bike. I have ridden bikes but never owned one. I’m not really looking to ride it much on the road but put around off-road and get a bike for my kids to learn on so I can follow them. Not looking to ride hard just go out and have fun. I’m 6’6” tall and 325 pounds. Looking at reviews I find myself looking at the DRZ or XR650L. I’m a Suzuki fan so I lean that way. What are your thoughts. Can a large man like myself ride this or should I pass. Thanks

[@nomadpi1]

"...a little heavier like me..." How heavy? Standard suspension front fork springs/rear shock or upgrades?

[@agentredbone1667]

Just tweeted you my XT350 I bought used! My first enduro

[@DorkintheRoad]

Nice!!

[@baceandrews]

I loved my DRZ but decided to sell it but I'm getting older (57) and I've lost probably over 2 or 2 1/2 inches I've shrunk. I've lowered it and still wasn't enough. It was a great bike but needed another gear.

[@ronsexton3685]

The DRZ400SM sits lower and you can put dirt tires on it for offroad.

[@bradh74]

I think the black DRZ looks good. It's better than the other colors I've seen. Do you think that the drz is a good starter bike for a big guy?

[@nateb5156]

So there’s a DRZ for sale near me, it’s a 2013, 5k miles, and it’s only $3500 should i be jumping at this? In a different video you talked about having the chance to buy a 2012 for $4500 but he didn’t want to negotiate but now i feel like this is a good deal for me

[@94SexyStang]

that's a Good price If it's in nice condition.......the market is crazy High right now on dirt bikes.....I couldn't find any DRZ below $5k near me, even a beater piece of shit was over $4k. I ended up buying a New Drz from the dealer, financed and gave them $500 cash down, LOL.

[@tillsy23]

I am trying to decide between the drz and the new crf300l

[@OM-sb2bd]

Quick question: did you just keep the stock rear shock and rear spring?….and crank the preload? Thanks!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yes

[@jakehenry4710]

Great video. I’m 6’4 280 will this bike handle my weight and be able to go 55-60 the roads ?

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yes

[@sglacf]

Just bought 2009 drz 400s

[@jeffpeters5297]

Wondering if I made a mistake getting a DR650. I think the reason I did is because I'm a bit "beefy". 290-300. It sounds Ike the DRZ might have been a better choice. Oh yeah, did I mention that I am 60. Well hindsight is 20/20.

[@DorkintheRoad]

They're both great bikes. You can't go wrong either way.

[@TheSirhc1975]

650 is a beast, both are great bikes.

[@zackarybrown6752]

At first glance I thought you had uploaded the same video twice. But nope not the case. I just need to learn to read.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Twice the excitement today.

[@jasonlawrence8302]

shoulda got yourself a new klx300......way lighter, more nimble and just as fast.....6 speed and fuel injection are iceing on the cake!! I've had several DRZ's, won't go back until they hit with a 6spd and injection!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yeah I feel like that would have been hard last June when I bought this one... ;)

[@RupDawgs]

Jason - I have a DRZ right now and I'm looking at the KLX300...I feel like my DRZ "feels" very heavy? Thoughts?

[@jasonlawrence8302]

@@RupDawgs drz has more power but thats about it, the klx shines every where else, espeicially down the highway in 6th gear!

[@toyotacamry4657]

Can you show us how to do service on a dual sport bike and do I have to mix oil the same way as a 1-2 stroke and can I ride say 500 miles without worrying about killing the engine

[@brambersig5014]

No mixing it’s a four stroke straight gas bud✊🏽

[@jamieboling7791]

Dork, I’m considering a new DRZ 400, CRF 300 or XR 650L. How much more torque/power does the DRZ have vs the CRF 250? How bad is the suspension on the 250 for a 220lb plus human?

[@DorkintheRoad]

A lot more power on the DRZ and the 250 suspension is fine for like streets or light forest roads but if you are doing anything remotely technical you'll really appreciate how much better the DRZ is. I'm heavier than you, by the way, so I know ;)

[@2shoestoo]

If it was a 6speed I would consider it, but no go without 6 gear.

[@juanignaciojurado7544]

The video said only 5 😁

[@peterfletcher4412]

Can my drz400sm perform off-road ?

[@ralphkrueger5386]

Will you ride with "Ole Yeller"?

[@JackRiverD]

Hey Dork, where’d you get that 1N23455 sticker? 😆

[@DorkintheRoad]

An awesome subscriber sent it to me.

[@landonlehman5497]

Haha. Hitting 5th again looking for 6th. Yup

[@kyleperry3748]

Comment is unrelated to video. Anyone have a good idea how the welded subframe on the crf300l will be either good or bad. Looking geared for more off road so idk how minor crashes or drops will take on it.

[@jimperry4420]

Minor crashes won’t hurt it, flipping it from a wheelie will be a problem though. Just find a good welder and life will be fine.

[@kyleperry3748]

@@jimperry4420 sounds good thank you!

[@DorkintheRoad]

How many times have you ever broken your subframe? How many people do you know that have done it? Do you plan on looping your bike often? If the answer to all of those is "no" (it is for me) then I can't imagine it will be much of a problem so long as you don't put like 100 pounds of gear on the subframe.

[@kyleperry3748]

@@DorkintheRoad ok I see your points, I agree, I was totally set on the honda 300l until I seen your video and I'm getting pulled towards the klx 300 now.. at least I have time for everyone that pre-ordered or placed deposits to get their opinion. Sucks that im bikeless this coming riding season.

[@ckkrons2338]

DR650 > DRZ400. 😀

[@MatheusFerreira-lg3pl]

your links that you point too are never present....

[@DorkintheRoad]

They're showing up for me? You can only see them on mobile or on a computer...

[@MatheusFerreira-lg3pl]

@@DorkintheRoad gotcha, thanks!

[@Oldguy-k3t]

Like everybody, want efi, 6 speed slipper clutch, bigger gas tank, lower seat height. Why does every mfg shortcut the customers.

[@T.S.-eo7my]

@@Oldguy-k3t because those bikes already exist.

[@flaash1067]

If it's not broken, don't fix it. Suppose that's why it hasn't changed for the last 20+ years

[@ryannafe9252]

Are you related to Luke Thomas?? 🤔