Is the Suzuki DRZ400 a Good First Motorcycle? Is it a Good Motorcycle for Beginners?

One question I get pretty often lately is "is the Suzuki DRZ400 a good first motorcycle?" People often wonder if it is a good motorcycle for beginners. The answer, like all things, is complicated. The best beginner motorcycle should, in my opinion, do two things. It should both be easy enough for a new motorcycle rider to handle and ideally be more than a good beginner bike but also be something that an experienced motorcycle rider can enjoy. The Suzuki DRZ400S and Suzuki DRZ400SM do well in both of these categories.
The DR-Z 400 has an above-average seat height, and this can be intimidating for newer riders who struggle to get their feet down. Likewise, the DRZ400S and DR-Z 400SM are very torquey bikes, which can get a beginning motorcycle rider into trouble if they're not careful. Despite this, though, I believe that the DRZ is a good beginner bike and one that can last you a very long time. Like all dual sport motorcycles, it's cheap and easy to maintain, insanely versatile, and capable of taking you anywhere you want to go, on road or off. Overall, it is a very good motorcycle for beginners and an excellent first motorcycle.
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[@DorkintheRoad]

Lack of a SIXTH gear. I'm not sure why I said FIFTH. My bad. Didn't catch it in the editing process.

[@Land-Shark]

Whiskey on the mind? Or the Beethoven movies. :)

[@michaelhodges8312]

DRZ400 is a great last bike as well! I’m 58 with a new 2020 400s and having loads of fun! My DRZ is so freakin fun! Nice video DITR!!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Couldn't agree more!

[@Scott-ri2ek]

58 and loving it.

[@Scott-ri2ek]

I got admit I converted my bike to a hybrid sm with 70 30 tires. S too tall

[@locofab8876]

Just turned 55, got the same bike and agree totally.

[@unclerico64]

At 6’2 225lbs, what else would someone consider coming back to trails 40 yrs later, now at 58? If the low end torque could be a concern. CRF 300 rally? KLX? Thx

[@imyourhuckleberry357]

For the price, and considering the very very low maintenance schedule, the Suzuki DRZ400s is the best bang for your buck dual sport made period!!!

[@fsalda1942]

I've been riding for about 25ish years. Love the DRZ400s. Great first bike!

[@l1qu1dm3t4lIV]

I couldnt be happier with my DRZ being my first (legal) bike.. In 520 miles I've already taken it everywhere from trails, to dirt roads, to the miles on the highway. (My only complaints are that stock seat and the Death-wings; I thought everyone was hating too much on these tires, but no, they are right, these tires are garbage)

[@DorkintheRoad]

The Deathwings are pretty okay on the street...but the second you get into anything remotely loose they are terrifying.

[@jacobm8396]

I just got my drz400 about 3 days ago, it’s registered I just don’t have my license yet so I’ve only ridden it for a couple hours in the bush atm but from the experience I’ve had in that little time I like it

[@711IPMC]

NEW BIKE DAY!!! After watching, researching, and then searching the innerwebs I purchased a new to me DRZ400S!!! I was initially leaning towards KLR650 but decided on this for a little sportier to play off-road with my son on his CRF. Thank you for all the info and keep it up please!

[@RICANDRE57]

I just turned 65 bin riding Harleys like your neighbour lol since 73. I live in Powell river bc and because of your PNW vids I bought a 2020 drz400s and I thank you, fun fun fun.

[@ElJefeComandante]

DRZ400SM is my first bike, it's been a breeze to learn on and I passed my test on it. If you're responsible with it, it's loads of fun. I ride mine as a daily and have no issue hitting highway speed comfortably. I just love the damn thing.

[@DanielRodriguez-vk9of]

What is your weight / height

[@clarkpitts5393]

I snagged a new drz400s. a month ago. And: I have 600 miles on it. Great bike. Picking up a 2020 DR200s this weekend. So I can start the newest riders on the 200s. Awesome video, take care, Clark

[@jadr5989]

Your channel and a response from you on a previous drz video helped me decide on the drz for my first bike about 2 months ago. (I had asked about me being a heavier beginner rider). Been riding single track, desert terrain and even some dunes and love it (no street yet). This thing has very manageable power, and even at 240lbs, this thing is a tractor and will haul me up anything bone stock. Never rode a motorcycle in my life and I haven't whiskey'd it once. Once you get accustomed to the seat height and weight of the bike, it's very easy to ride.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Excellent perspective. Thank you! Hopefully other new riders see your comment if they're trying to decide.

[@ChadDoesStuff]

Thanks ja dr! Another vote for me to get a DRZ!

[@ChadDoesStuff]

You answered my question before I asked it out loud. Classic story. Rode dirt bikes as a younger bloke, street bikes for the last 20yrs. Ready for a dual sport. Have been considering the 250L, but, my buddy has let me ride his DRZ a few times. So, you helped a lot in this decision. Thanks!

[@DorkintheRoad]

I think you'll be very happy with the DRZ. It's awesome

[@ChadDoesStuff]

@@DorkintheRoadI appreciate you saying so. I’m calling the dealer tomorrow! 😁

[@ChadDoesStuff]

soooooo....I ended up with a WR250R 😳

[@TheRayford13]

As usual, another excellent video. The DRZ is so much fun to ride that my Softail Slim is sitting in the garage collecting dust. The biggest hurdle for my 29" inseam was the seat height, but once you get used to that, the bike is so easy to ride anywhere. I look for opportunities to go off the pavement. :)

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's pretty much a blast no matter where you ride it!

[@rodneyaiken1742]

Some great videos for short riders out there. I've always had big bikes and love my DRZ. Definitely needs a better seat

[@christianrenfrew7614]

Grabbed a DRZ 400SM. First thing I grabbed was a seat concept XL. Huge difference in comfort and still looks great!

[@irishflyer6377]

Thank you for another great vid. I love my DRZ400 but I think that a new rider will build skill faster on a 200/250 with a low seat without hurting or scaring them self’s.

[@sgtyut6305]

Probably, but there are other criteria, as he mentioned. Such as not growing out of the bike.

[@irishflyer6377]

@@sgtyut6305 Fair comment and it also depends on where you ride, if there is lots of open trails/countryside then you may outgrow a smaller bike very quickly but is you live in more technical or single track areas then you may never outgrow a lightweight bike more suited to tight conditions. I have a Yamaha 225 for single track stuff, a DRZ400 for more open trails or dryer seasons and an Africa twin for tarmac and easy flat trails. its impossible to find a single bike for everything.

[@erikshannon9137]

Great video and advice! My experience is very limited due to being a new rider but for what it is worth to someone who may be considering a DRZ as a first motorcycle ... I bought a new 2020 DRZ400S 2.5 months ago and have about 1,200 miles on it. I had never ridden except for the 2 day basic safety course and have been loving the DRZ. I was worried about the seat height and planned to get a lower seat but I have not done so because it really has not been a problem (I have a 32” inseam). I am not sure how much of it is the bike vs. being new but I had been uncomfortable on the freeway until the last couple of hundred miles (did 60 miles at 70MPH+ last weekend) - focusing on gripping with my legs and relaxing the arms really helped. I see the DRZ as a long-term keeper and potentially adding an adventure bike down the road.

[@jsf8145]

Do u still have the DRZ?

[@erikshannon9137]

@@jsf8145 yes - I still like it

[@samuelred4540]

Ive been watching videos on the drz for 3yrs now. I finally own a DRZsm (5 months now) . Im still watching Drz videos because I want to know every inch of this bike.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Congrats on the new-ish ride!

[@Allworldsk1]

The DRZ 400 is a perfect Supermoto. I have yet to ride one off-road but I did purchase the 2022 DRZ400SM Recently and it has everything you could possibly want for a beginner motorcycle. It's basically the same size as a 250 or even a large 125 compared to a dirt bike standard. Relatively lightweight easy to manage easy to modify and easy maintenance. For the price and the reliability coupled with the longevity and the time-tested design and engine you just can't go wrong.

[@JimPowersUSA]

My first bike was a 2012 Super Tenere, purchased new from the dealer before I even had my license. For a "big" bike I found it EZ to ride. Two years ago I added a DRZ to the stable, purchased from the original owner with over 18K miles. On the Tenere I ride BDR type routes and general "adventure" touring. The DRZ has been my gateway into more serious off-road "technical" ;-) riding. So much so, that I've been eyeballing the Beta 430 and 500 (technically a 480) RR-S. That decision will have to wait until the craziness that is 2020 subsides and Beta starts hosting demo events again.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Damn that is a LOT of bike to start on.

[@kurthedgecock6313]

Great video! I am going to take my Drz on the trail for the first time on Saturday. I haven't ridden off road in years. This should be fun.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Enjoy it!

[@kurthedgecock6313]

Made it through my 2.5 hour ride in trails with no injuries! Bike is okay as well.

[@ThrottleBackRubberDown]

I am definitely a big fan of the DRZ. These bikes are super durable and you bring up many great points. I think it makes a great first bike in my opinion. Great video.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@bobbyroy-h]

I bought my street legal DRZ-400e back in May for $1300 and boy was that the best decision I've ever made. I seriously underestimated the ability of these bikes. I've sunk it, flown it off small cliffs and down hills, fallen off going through hard muddy clay at high speeds. Literally put the bike threw hell, and all I've had to replace this year was the oil, chain and tire, handle bars (which were actually not very strong honestly) and the clutch lever. I ride this thing every day and can honestly say. It was and probably will be for a long time, the best bike I have ever purchased.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a hell of a machine!

[@Rangernewb5550]

I wish I could find one for $1300! They're all $6000+ around me

[@bobbyroy-h]

@@Rangernewb5550 You'll find one man!! My younger brother just picked up a MINT 2001 400s for 3200. Only 20,000 on the clock!!

[@TheLambn8r]

Great video, not sure if I missed it, but one thing to note is that If the seat height is deterring someone from buying a drz400, the sm model seat height is about 2" lower at around 35". A little less intimidating than the 37" seat height on the S or E models. And obviously there are lowering options out there as well.

[@ReeseRides]

SUCH a helpful review!! I'm on the hunt for my first supermoto and time and time again the DRZ keeps coming up. Gonna binge on more of your videos until the day finally comes that I purchase my first supermoto. Thanks for the awesome video!!

[@trailruntim]

Soon-to-be riding buddy here. Just stumbled upon your channel today and subbed. Great info about the DRZ. I taking the MSF next month, so the two bikes I'm currently considering as a beginner are the Kawasaki X 300 and the Honda 500x. 90% of my riding will be touring with my buddy riding his old man Harley. But I'd like the ability to hit some forest service roads here in the mountains of NC.

[@MaylorTarshall]

The answer is yes.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Kind of a "Yes, but..." IMO. Totally doable...just need to know what you're getting yourself into.

[@Yoda8945]

I had been riding street bikes for 50 years and I decided I wanted something a little dirtier so I picked up a used DRZ. Would I recommend this bike for a first motorcycle? Unless you are over 6 feet tall, i would say no. The seat height is a killer. I have a Seat Comforts saddle on my bike and it is a bit lower than stock, but I am 5"10" and experienced so I could deal with it. I believe that the Royal Enfield Himalayan would be a better choice for a less than experienced rider. . It is shorter and easier to ride. For me, the DRZ is the most fun of the 5 bikes I own. It is adequate on the highway to get me to a place to ride in the dirt and 100 miles isn't any problem at all. 70 MPH is about as fast as I want to ride it for extended time but I have jumped it up to 85 for short bursts. This is with Pirelli Rallycross knobbies, panniers and camping gear. The guys I ride with that have the big bikes are in pain on some of the stuff the DRZ just flies across.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It is insanely fun. Fun factor is off the charts.

[@wolfgt12]

I really wanted a DR or a DRZ as a first bike, but I agree, height makes a difference. Im certain I wouldve dropped it at low speed a few times if I had started on it (5'10 as well). 5 months after getting my license I found a good one for sale and havent looked back.

[@ChadDoesStuff]

Yeah, it’s very official. Same story, mostly street, ready to go dual sport. This video/several comments have solidified for me, DRZ.

[@imyourhuckleberry357]

Only thing I would say for a beginner is that it is a tall seat bike. I bit harder to ride to start off...But as soon as you get used to it it's all good....

[@distilledfreedom1840]

I was debating the DR vs the FE 501 for my first bike. I went with the Husqvarna as I knew I would grow into it despite the initial power shock. It just gives me the fizz. No problems yet. The seat height is even taller than the DRZ. I figure it's all in the way you approach it, more like a technical operator, operating it rather than the other way around. I would like to try the Suzuki at some point though.

[@nedmacallen]

We need more drz videos!!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Here's one!

[@jeffreyhurst9552]

Seat height is the stumbling block for me. I’m 68 with a 29” inseam and trying to get my leg up and over sounds painful. I absolutely love the idea of a lightweight peppy single cylinder motorcycle for mostly commuting. I do have a Grom and it is fun but a top speed in the middle 50s is limiting. What do you think of the Royal Enfield Himalayan? Really liking your videos.

[@DorkintheRoad]

The seat height isn't as bad as I used to think it was, especially when I just step on the peg and swing my leg over to get on every time. I'd recommend at least sitting on one if you can just to see how it feels to you. Himalayan seems like a dead simple, no frills option for exploring all over the place. Not sure how the reliability is, though. I

[@SmokinNate]

I started on a ninja 400. I wanna trade in for a dual sport leaning toward the Yamaha wr250r. Im getting older and the seating position destroys my back. I’m 5’8 seat height is kind of an issue. I wouldn’t want to lower the bike though shorter seat would be ok, and most likely I’d like to put an engine upgrade in it 280-310. I like the 6th gear and having fuel injection vs drz400. Also seems like lesser mods to get it right and less work involved. Idk if I have a question or not lol. Maybe Thoughts?

[@DorkintheRoad]

Lots of advantages to the WR. Newer design, fuel injection, sixth gear, etc... New price is about the same, though, so you have to decide if those things are worth the loss of HP. The DRZ has tons of low-end torque. The WR has to be ridden at higher RPMS. So your riding style is something to consider, too. Both awesome bikes. Can't go wrong either way.

[@videoaksproductions]

Great info on the DRZ ! Love your videos man ! Been researching both the CRF and DRZ. This was helpful. I'm just such a Honda guy. In my view, the're bullet proof. Could never afford one when i was a kid. lol I recently bought my son an XR200. You know what? Bullet proof! You seen the way that Attention Deficit guy rode his CRF250l? Bullet proof ! lol I see a CRF 250l in my near future, friend. The DRZ looks like an amazing bike. I'd love to ride one! Seriously! I'm sure it's everything you are saying then more! And that's awesome and I get wat ur saying about growth. And I'm happy for you and your DRZ. But just tell me this one thing, late at night when u sneak off to click on the garage lights to gaze upon her glistening plastics in those florescence, is the first thought that comes to your mind "bullet proof"? LOL

[@DorkintheRoad]

No...the first thought is "damn that's a fine looking bike." Love the black, personally. ;)

[@ChadDoesStuff]

@@DorkintheRoad I’ve got my eye on a black 2014 DRZ! 🧐

[@rrphotography3600]

The 6th gear issue is what scares me off the xr400/drz400 and even on the big 650's. I run highways to get to single track so needs to have long legs in top gear then still have first low enough to pop through the trails. Currently run a xr250l, the last of the xr's. Basically a lighter, slightly more powerful crf250l. Has inverted forks, adjustable suspension (though with tools) soft as seat. Wish that honda kept this bike going as it has been bullet proof. Atm looking for more power at highway speeds, the torque off road is fine just looses its legs over 100-110kmph. Finding my solution is to big bore and tune her for more power rather than swap. (Note rego costs over 250cc in some areas is restricting. My 250 costs $360 a year, anything over 250cc is $850 a year. AUD.)

[@KenpachiZarakiX]

Ya damn right it is! 😆 Bring on the snow riding!

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's great at everything ;)

[@JeanFrancoisDufour-bp5si]

Félicitations pour votre émission 👍

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

Better ride the Twin , I hear they are the jealous type haha . I also was looking at the Z at first but went with 650 because it was 7 feet shorter . Your bike is more trail friendly and mine is a bit better on the road with the extra 45 pounds or so and 20 ish hp . Only time I got the front wheel up was on mistake at a stop sign , popped the clutch a little and I had the front wheel up a few inches . Glad no vehicles were around as it was as I was turning right and I think I went a little wide in my lane but I was a little surprised at the time and told myself don't friggin do that again unless I am trying to do that . Now with my Tenere the DR650 feels like a paper towel haha .

[@yoda4runner137]

How about a tire recommendation vid in the future? Thinking about picking up a pair of Shinko 244's

[@DorkintheRoad]

Tires are hard to recommend just because it totally depends on the rider. I'm running the Trakmasters and they're awesome for what I do, but I don't ride on the road much. D606/MT21 combo is a good 70/30 ish combo to consider, as well.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I appreciate the video suggestion. I may do a quick one on just the tires I run and why I run them.

[@yoda4runner137]

Dork in the Road right on. Thanks for that 👍🏼

[@duck9191]

If you are a 60/40 ridder and don't come across much mud or lose sand the 700/244's are good tires. Like Dork said it depends, if you are a majority off road or run into mud a more aggressive tires will benefit you.

[@bustayu]

Tw 200 I think would be a great way to learn !!

[@DorkintheRoad]

I don't disagree. Great bike to start on.

[@adamenders1695]

I bought a DRZ as my 2nd bike, 1st dual sport. Seat height I’d def say is a concern as I have a ridiculously short inseam. I ended up backing the rear spring off to drop the ride height a bit and it’s still sketchy. The real problem is I need to road test with it and it’s still too high to be comfortable. I may actually borrow something else for that.

[@anthonyroger5533]

What about DRZ 400 super motor with 30 percent off road 70 percent on road the motorbike is lower.

[@locofab8876]

"Twist the throttle and explode" was funny as hell. That gets a 2... what gets a 1?

[@korneliusthegrey4923]

On a 1 through 10 unicorn bike scale. How would you rate the DRZ.

[@unclerico64]

At 6’2 225lbs, what else would someone consider coming back to trails 40 yrs later, now at 58? If the low end torque could be a concern. CRF 300 rally? KLX? Thx for this video.

[@jasonixo]

If I get a DR-Z and the places I ride need some highway to reach, would it be a pain to use a rear road wheel with a smaller sprocket and road tire to get there and swap on arrival? I see doing that sort of thing for a weekend trip rather than a single-day trip. Better highway revs and less wear on the knobby tire...

[@DorkintheRoad]

You want to carry a whole extra wheel and tire on your motorcycle? Or just the sprocket and tire? Either way it seems pretty complicated. I think I'd rather just wear down a knobby and replace it more often or just throw the bike in the truck for the longer drive like I do, personally.

[@jasonixo]

@@DorkintheRoad if I bolt some panniers on the bike and I have a campsite to stash some gear, strapping a complete rear wheel to the bike to swap without any tire and tube work sounds feasible to me

[@sproesser1]

Drz is not a good bike for someone just learning. It’s heavy for a 400, and top heavy at that. It’s also pretty powerful, with good low end torque. A lighter, smaller bike is much better suited for learning on. Yes it’s a really great bike, I’ve owned 2 of them. Just not for starting out.

[@davidhanger5795]

I wish the plastics for the DR650 were as inexpensive.

[@niclynch319]

How does the drz400 stack up against dr650s? Or why not the dr650s?

[@mikem9366]

Any major issues you know of on a 05 drz400, looking at one for 3k I don't know the milage yet

[@willchilds5414]

How far have you gone on the drz on the highway?

[@DorkintheRoad]

Not crazy far. Just an hour or so at a time mostly. I have my Africa Twin for the longer rides.

[@dstubby82]

I'd recommend something shorter or lighter for a brand new rider. XT250, CRF/KLX 300, etc. 2 years experience and you'll ride a DRZ to the grave.

[@videoaksproductions]

How can a guy w a Honda CRF250l speak such blasphemy!? lol

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's possible to love two things ;) Plus, I already did a CRF250L First Bike video. Only fair to do one for the DRZ.

[@slowsteve3497]

I sold my 250l and bought 390 adv. 250l awesome on dirt. But way under sprung on roads at 225 lb.

[@ZSmith-yy4lv]

I’m thinking of getting a drz400 for a first bike, and if I were to mainly do road and packed trails, would the 400sm be better? Also something I haven’t found a clear answer on is can I get some wheels that are the same as the s and easily switch between the two to have the same performance off road? Would the suspension or disks affect any of that? If anyone has any info or experience, it would be appreciated.

[@bustayu]

The sm inverted forks should make that bike handle a lot better, but that smaller front wheel doesn't do you any favors off road

[@DorkintheRoad]

I'm pretty sure the rotors are unique to each model, so you'd have to swap out a rotor but otherwise can get two sets of tires and wheels and go back and forth between them. People do it all the time. Check out the Thumpertalk forums, maybe. Lots of experts there. If you're going off road at all I'd say get the S model. It's cheaper and then if you decide you want to do tougher off road stuff you already have the right bike for it. I wouldn't get the SM unless you know for sure you want to do primarily in-town street riding with some hooligan-ish stuff maybe thrown in there. That's me, though.

[@ZSmith-yy4lv]

@@DorkintheRoad thanks for the info. Even through my tiny little peaks into this world, I can already tell it’s filled with amazing people (mostly lol). I look forward to seeing it from the other side.

[@russellborn515]

@@bustayu For packed, reasonably smooth trails the smaller wheel is fine.

[@bustayu]

@@russellborn515 that is true !!

[@josiprados6905]

Hello, i found suzuki dr 350 1997 for about 1,5k it has like around 15k miles on it. looks in pretty good shape, is it worth getting or should i save more money and get dr 400 2006 wich is around 4k or yamaha wr250f 2004 for 3,5k

[@DorkintheRoad]

Is the DR350 kickstart only? Probably worth avoiding if so

[@josiprados6905]

@@DorkintheRoad Has electric starter also.

[@yoda4runner137]

Thumbs Up

[@DorkintheRoad]

Much appreciate!

[@stephtraveler7378]

Parking meters in your room.... What was the reason Cool Hand Luke went to prison??? Cutting off parking meters.. Let's hope you don't suffer the same fate...

[@DorkintheRoad]

These were more or less legally acquired

[@1UpKroeker]

why the drz400 over the dr 650?

[@DorkintheRoad]

I didn't need the extra highway capability of the 650 because I have my Africa Twin for any long rides. My DRZ is primarily used off road so I wanted to maximize that potential.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Not a good starter. In my opinion and why. The seat height, as you mentioned plus the low down torque (7 out of 10) in your opinion hardly, coming from a more experienced rider, like yourself makes it an automatic no for beginners. Plus it not being that suitable for highway riding gives it another zero.... 👎

[@michaelanderson9914]

How can you identify a happy motorcyclist?...they have bugs in their teeth.