Should You Buy A DRZ400SM?

[@TBOSUMO]

Bought one cuz of You! HECK YEA everyones needs one.

[@linksgarage1985]

My brother! 💪🏼. Hell yea bro. Now you’re camping with one!

[@aperlia6603]

Same. Bought one this past season, never got on my aprilia or kawasaki since. Honestly I'm gonna sell both of those bikes next spring b/c all I wanna do is mod and ride the DRZ. Just can't help but do stupid shit on it, it's like a giant grom.

[@TheGlock34man]

Anyway, you can share the link to the headlight you bought. I’m thinking about picking up this bike this weekend.

[@millennialfalcon147]

Wanted a supermoto for years and finally picked up a DRZ about a month ago and it's a blast! Been loving your channel keep it up 💪

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea man!!!!!! Congrats on the new ride!

[@vinkat01]

2020 Grey and blue...DRZSM...Thanks Pal. How dare you!!!...made me go out and get the foot pegs. The shifter, and brake. The damn clutch lever and brake leavers ???....Even the stainless steel brake lines... WHO are you??? I showed my buddy your kick starter install....F!!! We both each have an OEM kick starter on the way. Been eyeing your carb vids...damn you.. don't you dare do the DRZ400E cams!!!

[@maxwell9734]

Yeah, just like you, I always wanted a dirt bike that I could ride on the road. And, it's easily loaded up on my truck, for longer camping trips. Going to the mountains next week! I can park the truck and keep it off those gravel roads. Set up camp, and unload the bike. Bop around the area and slip into trails and get back into the outer far reaching places. I had it on railroad tracks and travelled to some places that would have taken me a couple days hiking just to get there! I even have a small Chevy Colorado (extended cap) small 6ft bed, and with the bike loaded up first, I can stuff all my other gear around it, and underneath it... The cover everything with a tie down tarp. Bingo-Bongo I'm ready! Mountains are made for the Drz'😮

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea. It’s perfect for that! Thanks for watching I appreciate that!

[@wyzeazz]

I bought one last year as well! def a hooligan machine!

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea!!!!

[@tiltedbuilt]

Also bought a 23 DRZ400SM 3 days ago because of you. Thanks 👍🏻

[@linksgarage1985]

Man! That is awesome!!!!!!! You guys blow my mind. You won’t regret it. It’s fun as hell! 💪🏼

[@MikeHoncho69420]

What was the out the door price boss?

[@g4lines197]

Should I do it for my bike for the next 3 years. Planning on buying one tomorrow for 6.9k brand new 2023 plus all other fees

[@apb7033]

​@@g4lines197Just got the same year same price with 249 miles and absolutely love it! Already had full delkevic exhaust,tail light conversation kit and plenty extra. You wont regret it. I've owned cbr 929s and a cbr 1000 so I'm no newbie. Go for it!

[@jeremynielsen4353]

I bought a 2023 and it's fun as hell. My first bike. Getting wheelies better day by day!

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea!!! Enjoy it!

[@BABYPOP028]

I bought one new last year. The smallest displacement engine/ bike I have ever owned and easily the most fun. And you are correct regarding the “service intervals” .. there are hardly any 🎉

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea. I appreciate you watching!

[@maxwell9734]

Yeah, if motorcycles were Trucks, by comparison, the Drz' would be the 'Renagade Jeep, w/ the V-8 engine. 😅 Frickin thing is so flickable . I've had mine on horse trails .. even with the stock street tires, (Dunlop) sometimes I had to take my feet off the pegs, but that bike can dig deep in low end and tractor right through some rough stuff! And then, right back out on the roadways and cruise back home! I love it!

[@dean12061997]

I have watched heaps of different videos and have been very undecided on what supermoto I wanted but after watching your videos I’m locking it in I’m definitely getting a DRZ your a legend 🤙

[@linksgarage1985]

Glad I could help

[@TRyanLearnBikes]

Couldn't agree more ,these bikes are absolute diamonds .A sixth gear would be brilliant and for me ...a kick starter, just because thats one of the most quintessential features of a basic old school bike that just looks right and will always feel so damn cool when you kick your bike to life and roar away like a pro ...when you know ,you know .

[@linksgarage1985]

For sure! I should have mentioned the kick starter!!!!! 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[@sorenmelchior]

Suzuki makes a OEM kickstarter kit for the DRZ400’s FYI. I have considered getting one for my 2023 400s.

[@Xxjoeynumber1xX]

Wait really??

[@linksgarage1985]

Hey man. Ya never know. Might do a stroker big bore with cams.. 💪🏼. Thanks for watching I appreciate it!

[@GromBeardo]

Hell Yeah! Nice to see the DRZ getting some love again 😁

[@linksgarage1985]

The DRZ is my true love. I’m just having a fling with the Yamavarna. I’ll never give up on the DRZ. 🤣

[@rrossadillo]

Agreed, these bikes are awesome and you can improve all their shortcomings

[@linksgarage1985]

@@rrossadillo for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@natesv04]

I had a GSXR 750 a while back and I'm not lying when I tell you this bike is more fun to ride. I thinks it's the whole riding a slow bike fast instead of a fast bike slow.

[@linksgarage1985]

Yep. Something so enjoyable about wringing out every last ounce or something a bike has to give. Instead of barely getting near the bikes limit. Best fun ever. Thanks for watching!

[@ericweber1969]

That sleepwalking story was priceless. 😂

[@linksgarage1985]

🤣

[@max.b92]

3 years later i love my 21 drz400sm more then ever

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea! I’m 2 years in and I couldn’t agree more

[@max.b92]

@linksgarage1985 I'm happy you still enjoy it after getting 2 new bikes. I started out on a yamaha FZ-07 my 1st year riding, then got my drz and one had to go. The choice was clear, and i do not regret it one bit. Thank you for your support for the platform and awesome drz content. Your drz turned out beautiful and tastefully done. Hope to see more drz content in the future this was a good watch

[@KenpachiZarakiX]

Just sent my rear shock out on mine. Woke up one day to it leaking. Probably from jumping it. I can't ride until they send it back, but hopefully, it will be revalved for my weight and able to jump it. Great content!

[@linksgarage1985]

Thank you. Let me know how it goes when you get it back!

[@H.D.B.23]

I just got rid of mine a 2019 and bought a 2023 gsx s1000. Not gonna lie it’s fun and all but for highway travel it’s not all that it felt like it was gonna blow up. Started to leak oil on me. I needed that 6th gear. But it is the best supermoto!

[@linksgarage1985]

Definitely not a highway cruiser. Congrats on the new bike!

[@theHeath]

YES buy one! Nice compliment to another bike like a harley or sportbike

[@linksgarage1985]

For sure!

[@nate4036]

If you come from a dirt bike background or even raced mx….. a sumo is a no brainer. Lightweight, wheelie machines, and will go almost anywhere (depending on tire choice)

[@linksgarage1985]

Facts!

[@TheDeerhunter42]

51 years old and my 2017 fz09 and 2013 ktm duke 690 sits in the garage because im always on my 2020 drz400sm. just a fun bike i will say my ktm duke would be close to the drz.

[@linksgarage1985]

That’s awesome man. I have had many different bikes. But this one just seems special. I would like that 690 Duke though! 😍

[@whoajack]

Totally buy one, I love this bike. Second one I've had and since riding again each ride is getting more fun than the last. brap brap!

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea! Thanks for watching!

[@TheDeerhunter42]

oh i just installed shinko 705s on my drz so far i like them for some back road fun and they are great on the curvy roads also. 100% agree on the seat its wort the money

[@linksgarage1985]

Seat is a total ass saver. 🤣. Thanks for watching I appreciate it!

[@touchthebacon5447]

I got mine last week, and holy crap I've never had so much fun riding. I have noticed an uptick in middle fingers from the same guys I pass on my Harley when I ride the DR, really showing their colors there. Maybe they also need a DRZ in their lives.

[@linksgarage1985]

Glad to hear it. They’re just jealous we don’t have to wear leather shirts or scream live to ride ride to live! Congrats on the bike dude! 💪🏼

[@sharpbj]

Enter flashback pic of carboard deer cutout and you know what sound effect!!!

[@linksgarage1985]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 oh yea. I remember!

[@86AW11]

In 100% stock form the DRZ is dangerous due to the lean fuel condition. It has a tendency to stall from a stop if you aren't really careful with the throttle.

[@linksgarage1985]

@@86AW11 thanks for watching!

[@samueljoseph9540]

Yes the best super moto ever get u home everytime I love mine so much

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea!!!

[@CraigSmith568]

I have one of these and the only problems I've had have been the cheap ass front axle sliders and the bar end on the throttle both vibrated off. I also had to tighten the kill switch housing as it came loose on me. I agree a larger fuel tank would be nice. A sixth gear would be nice when I am running 80, but most of the time I am on back roads running 45-55 and I don't miss it. I have re-jetted mine and did the 3x3 mod. For me the carb is a plus. So much easier than messing with a computer. I don't ride at night, so I haven't noticed the headlight. One thing I wish they did was put an analog speedometer with a trip meter that resets with a push of a button. Digital speedometers suck and all the buttons on this thing are ridiculous. I can never remember the right sequence for resetting the trip meter. Still have plans on an exhaust and maybe changing to a different carb.

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea! I can make a quick video on resetting trip meter. Super simple! Thanks for the comment!

[@CraigSmith568]

@@linksgarage1985 I've learned how to do it, I just forget every time I go to do it. I'm getting old timers.

[@linksgarage1985]

@@CraigSmith568 🤣🤣🤣

[@5zeth]

Im considering a DRZ myself as a beginner after watching ur videos. My only concern is the seat height. Im 5'10' and have to tippy toe it. I don't think it should be a problem in the long term.

[@linksgarage1985]

Rear suspension is adjustable! You can also just get a lowering link!

[@FullCampColby]

I’m kind of in the same boat. Been looking at the Honda and Kawasaki 300s , was debating back and forth on those but really starting to seriously lean to this option instead. I am 6’4” however , not too concerned about the height. Just new and trying to find a good fit for my wants/needs. Mostly a fun commuter around the city, weekend rider. I k is there’s no perfect bike but this seems to check a lot of boxes.

[@tim.martin]

​@@FullCampColby did you get a bike? With your height (and potentially weight) more cc's will never be a regret.

[@inseasonandoutofseason]

YES! i couldn't afford one so i got the Grom RIP. Do not want to finance, maybe one day! I still wonder if I am too short for this, im 5 7, I already know i'd love it.

[@linksgarage1985]

The seat height is 36 inches.

[@stephenlepore4476]

wowzer- beautiful part of the country! where is this?

[@linksgarage1985]

Kentucky!

[@stephenlepore4476]

@@linksgarage1985 beautiful. enjoy the ride brother!

[@everythingisIAM]

Great vlog, thanks for this post. A question I have is why did you choose the DRZ vs maybe a 650, fuel injected or there are so many other bikes? Was it the price tag or that it easy to work on? This is def a bike i would love, no doubt, I can tell you though, Ive had the older bikes...suzuki and Kawasaki 650 kz but the damn carb..now, after watching you, i see its not to bad, but eff that carb.....i know im not alone..i had such a difficult time with those older bikes..cause im NOT a mechanic, nor do i have tools and I could never get a mechanic that wanted to work on the older carb 80s bikes. I always messed up the petcok i think that what its called and flooded it could never get it started in the spring. anyways, i would say, 95% of people lhat have these love them,

[@linksgarage1985]

First of all, thanks for watching. 2nd, I didn’t get the bike for the price tag. There are plenty of other machines for 8k I could have got brand new. Many of which would be much quicker. However, this is the machine I wanted. I wanted a carb. I wanted a proven platform with dinosaur like reliability. I dig the retro vibe. And most importantly to me, I didn’t want a machine that would do 180mph. I know myself. I know I would be pushing those limits, trying to squeeze every inch of performance out of it. And for me, back road ripping at 50-60 mph was the ticket. It’s fun riding a 40hp machine for all it has. Rather than barely touching a machine that makes triple the power.

[@everythingisIAM]

@@linksgarage1985 excellent, makes sense!

[@daz.r1994]

I have the drz 400s and it's so much fun. I will pick up some sm wheels soon.

[@Aging2day]

I hope mine comes out as nice as yours did!

[@linksgarage1985]

Trust the process! You got this ! 💪🏼

[@jessecrawford2711]

Noticed you got some decel pop going on got the jetting spot on now huh?

[@linksgarage1985]

Pretty decent I think!

[@JW-gb6hq]

Getting back into riding after a few years break. Kaw zrx1200r and T955i Speed triple last street bikes. Was looking at a KlR….now I am wondering for my usage(short distance, in town, occasional dirt road) maybe this would be a better selection. I have to watch all your vids now and think some more now. I had extensive dirt bike background back in 80-90’s and this could be the best solution for a fun scooter. Thoughts? Like doing my own maintenance as well.

[@linksgarage1985]

Love the ZRZ1200. What a beautiful machine. And this could be the bike for you. It’s not the fastest. It’s not the flashiest. But man it’s super reliable. I added a kick start to mine. Long service intervals. Just keep oil in it, and lube the chain. That’s all it needs. I would recommend a seat upgrade of you will be doing any longer distance stuff. And if you need more power than stock, a jet kit, an exhaust and opening up the airbox turns it into a completely different machine. I have vids on every single thing you could want on the channel. Thanks for stopping in!

[@JW-gb6hq]

@@linksgarage1985 Thanks.. I think maybe I should try one out. I live in Pensacola so elevation changes are non existent. I have watched a few of your other vids and I think there is some great value in being able to go off script if needed at the flick of the wrist. Crazy times….I will update in a couple months with purchase and again thanks for the content and response with the advice.

[@linksgarage1985]

@@JW-gb6hq always man. Glad to help.

[@tommyb133]

What mirrors are those? I had the powermadd ones on my zeta guards and they are mirrors in the legal sense only. Can't see anything with them

[@linksgarage1985]

Stealth mirrors. Video on the channel. I love them!

[@slightlyhyped2682]

Got my 2024 drz-skiii 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@linksgarage1985]

Nice!!! Congrats on the new ride!

[@stevenmcc2119]

Might get a 06 drz400 tomorrow decked out either goodies anything that’s needed immediately

[@nate4036]

Another thing you can do for more seat comfort is those padded bicycle shorts. I picked up that idea from touring on a R6. It’ll definitely help you from getting “monkey butt”

[@linksgarage1985]

Nice! Good tip!

[@Cbass1776]

Got any videos on your exhaust install and your 3x3 mod? I love the way your exhaust looks

[@linksgarage1985]

Videos on all of it

[@Evil_Arrow]

Can you please tell me what width your tires are?

[@linksgarage1985]

Front 120/70/17 Rear now is 150/60/17

[@MrWolf2212]

Do you mind saying how much did you pay for yours OTD??? The prices for them seem to vary quite a bit.

[@linksgarage1985]

Think it was like $7500. Less than one mile on it

[@greggory448]

What phone mount do you recommend?

[@linksgarage1985]

@@greggory448 kzbin.info/www/bejne/pH3Wk6Snn7KWms0si=wiEyUhWukLZTTfeV

[@ericl9830]

Acerbis 3.9 tank in black is decent looking. Not the look of stock but i love the 50% more range. Install was easy

[@Electrictheater9]

Nice turn signal dickweed had me dying. Definitely want a drz soon

[@linksgarage1985]

🤣 yea. The no signal gets me every time. Lol. Thanks for watching.

[@dad3562]

How’s it feel at 65-70 mph. On the interstate fare I ask haha.? Buzzy? Better than KLR650?

[@linksgarage1985]

Not very buzzy. 65 can cruise all day long. The KLR will feel more planted at the higher speed because of the weight. This isn’t an interstate cruiser. But if you need to go a few exits up at 75 mph, it doesn’t break a sweat. Thanks for watching!

[@dad3562]

@@linksgarage1985 sweet thank you!

[@linksgarage1985]

@@dad3562 gladly!

[@verylivingston]

Such a good video. Which seat concept seat did you choose? I need one :)

[@linksgarage1985]

@@verylivingston this one! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqKmeKOper6fg9ksi=cwQ5rKyGtP_u52uV

[@verylivingston]

@@linksgarage1985 Thanks but that is a link to your video? Was it supposed to link to the seat?

[@linksgarage1985]

@@verylivingston I thought I told the model of the seat in the video. It’s been a couple years ago. I think it was just the standard with the gripper top and the carbon fiber sides. Not the XL. I can’t remember 100%.

[@verylivingston]

@@linksgarage1985 Ah ok no worries. Thanks! Im going to mirror all your mods :)

[@linksgarage1985]

@ no problem. Glad to help

[@kevindo3854]

Drz is the best bike ever

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea!

[@jcannon49]

Where did you get your sick sticker kit for your bike

[@linksgarage1985]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5WuZoOMacmAjJo

[@nickandmotorcycletime5246]

Hey Link! Love your channel. I have a quick question, there's a 2008 drz400sm by me with 29 000 miles on it, fcr39 carb, MRD full exhaust, mcct, super well maintained for $3200. It also come with new warp 9 dirt wheels. Im scared of the mileage but really wanna try owning one for a bit on a budget. Any wisdom man?

[@linksgarage1985]

You are unwise if it’s in nice condition and you don’t scoop it! Ha. The FCR, the wheels, and the exhaust are worth the asking price. I wouldn’t be afraid of the mileage if it was maintained well. Listen for noises. But sounds like a steal sir. And thanks for watching! I appreciate it!

[@nickandmotorcycletime5246]

@@linksgarage1985 thanks man! You are the reason haha. Eventually I want a new one to mod out, but for now. Ride safe man.

[@jessiemcnemar4830]

I absolutely love mine!!!

[@linksgarage1985]

Agree!

[@05Rm250RideAlong]

Thinking of getting one, gf is hesitant because we want to buy a house within the next year, but planning on selling my 05 rm250 and a spare daily driver and getting an2024

[@linksgarage1985]

Life is all about choices. If you don’t get one now, you will later. I did all the house stuff first before I did the bikes. Worked better for me that way. Good luck, and thanks for watching!

[@allenveloz8939]

Hey man what do you do for work?

[@linksgarage1985]

@@allenveloz8939 Head Pimp. Folks call me Gator. 🐊 🤣

[@StreetbeatDesigns67]

Absolutely yes, there isn't a better bike. It does every single thing you ask of it, and it just keeps on doing it over and over and over again. I'm on my second one now and I'm sure I'll own a 3rd at some point in my life

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea!

[@iicashiiv790]

Are you ever planning on doing a re spring video for rider weight on the Drz?

[@linksgarage1985]

I’ve thought about a shock set up video.

[@iicashiiv790]

@@linksgarage1985 that would be awesome there are hardly any good videos on how to do it let alone the SM models 🤦‍♂️

[@linksgarage1985]

@@iicashiiv790 I’ll see what I can do!

[@steviebrule8872]

You take this on any harder trails or is this strictly a road bike for you?

[@linksgarage1985]

Road bike for me. Have others for the trails

[@steviebrule8872]

@@linksgarage1985 sweet, that’s probably what I would do too. Been using a CRF110 for trails and it rips

[@yotashannon1582]

Hey I recently got a starter cover like yours but black and red and it had the incorrect bushing size. It will slide into it but only with force and it then locks my starter up. How did you get ahold of them to get the right one? I messaged them on insta and there ignoring me.

[@linksgarage1985]

I actually never contacted them. They contacted me. Send me your IG or send me a message @scottlink_l5p and I’ll send them your info

[@datwaymotoworks]

What mirrors?

[@linksgarage1985]

@@datwaymotoworks stealth mirrors!

[@willknott4796]

Did you say you are in sixth??? Lol keep the content coming, I’m jonesing for mine.

[@linksgarage1985]

Nope! Only 5th!

[@JW-gb6hq]

Subscribed….why not..excellent content.

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea. Thank you. I appreciate it!

[@TheGhostie245]

What are your tire sizes?

[@linksgarage1985]

120/70/17 front 140/70/17 rear Factory

[@coreyuhrin2395]

Just got mine and i agree

[@linksgarage1985]

Hell yea!

[@wes6328]

Currently have a 2011 Harley Sportster 48 1200cc and it’s a great bike but i’m just not attached to the bike even though I daily it. Really want to get the drz400 but not sure if should sell the harley and get the drz or just save and keep both, any suggestions? (first bike was a dirtbike)

[@linksgarage1985]

Well it’s def a different riding experience. I’d try to ride one before I made a decision.

[@wes6328]

@@linksgarage1985 Man that’s the worst part! I did and i absolutely love it felt like a kid in a candy shop smiling the whole time

[@linksgarage1985]

@@wes6328 then there’s your answer!!!!!

[@Garrettmoyer18]

How is the fcr China running for you on the drz ? Is it still worth it or should I stay stock carb ?

[@linksgarage1985]

Still doing great. But the stock carb is great also.

[@Garrettmoyer18]

But it made it more snappy feeling better throttle response ? Or not much of a difference to worry about the hassle ?

[@linksgarage1985]

@@Garrettmoyer18 yes it made a bid difference. Just snap the trotted in 1-2 and it stands straight up.

[@myexescallmetictac8297]

11:25 What's up cool guys! We in the cool guy club guys! 2018 Black and gold

[@utopiaspaz]

Im kind of regreting trading my drz for a 690 smcr but they are both great

[@linksgarage1985]

See, I’ve thought about the 701 and the 690. Both are rad bikes!

[@Hardley_stunts]

Gotta be Appalachian mountains..🤔

[@linksgarage1985]

Nope! But it’s in Kentucky

[@joep2177]

Man these have gotten expensive. New 2023 $7799 plus another $590 destination charge. Hard to find a decent used one. Great bike so probably nobody wants to sell theirs.

[@linksgarage1985]

Damn. And it’s unchanged since 05!

[@joep2177]

It's only money. Just bought a 2023 in white. Checking out your vids for the mods I want to do. I think half the fun with this bike is modding it.

[@Alicia-u6b1q]

just baught mine today

[@linksgarage1985]

@@Alicia-u6b1q hell yea! Congrats on the new purchase!

[@stevenmcc2119]

If it only has 5 Gears can just do a different sprocket set

[@GotusTotus]

Make me one of those debrightners pleaseeee lmao

[@ramonbostic]

The real question is, "Why WOULDN'T you buy one?!?!"!

[@linksgarage1985]

This guy gets it!! ^^ thanks for watching!

[@mrsmel269]

yes yes they should ;-)

[@linksgarage1985]

For sure!!!!

[@waynecurr9569]

if it was fuel injected, I would've bought one years ago

[@linksgarage1985]

Hey. That’s cool.

[@travelinben1966]

Probably wait until Suzuki fits it with fuel injection.

[@jeremylewis1300]

Love your videos brother. Incredible! Just bought a 2022 SM and getting close to the first oil change. Just curious if you have done any of the loctite fixes that I have been reading about like on the countershaft nut.

[@linksgarage1985]

Thank you! I have researched it a little. But I have not done any of it. I do loctite bolts when I am replacing anything. Maybe one day I’ll do a loctite video. But I’ve had zero issues out of mine. I appreciate you watching!

[@jeremylewis1300]

@@linksgarage1985 thanks for the reply. Look forward to your next video. Have a great Memorial Day brother. 🇺🇸

[@linksgarage1985]

@@jeremylewis1300 you do the same sir! 🇺🇸💪🏼🇺🇸

[@neilsmith5883]

less computer crap you gotta worry about, lol that sold me the bike alone

[@linksgarage1985]

For sure! And it’s true. Todays stuff is so complicated electronically.