It is powered by a 398 cc (24.1 cu in), liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC, four-stroke engine. Which bike do you guys think would be more reliable long term? It has a reliable engine that is easy to maintain and is very versatile. It has a five-speed transmission and weighs in at just under 300 pounds. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. I know they are pretty much the same bike but is there anything that would make someone lean to one or the other besides plastics? KLX300sm: $6000, fuel injected, 6 speed. The KLX300 and DRZ400 are two popular off-road motorcycles. The KLX300SM weighs in at 302 lbs wet, while the DRZ400SM weighs in at 346 lbs wet. I kinda feel the same. $9k is pretty expensive for what it is, but what are ya gonna do? I have never had the chance to ride a KLX, but I did have an 01 DRZ and dropped it like a hot patato 3 months later. Since used prices are approaching new prices, I'd go new. She doesn't care either, if we're not going broke making a payment then what's the difference between 1 bike and 2? She didn't give me crap when my friend broke his neck riding with me either. If you want a powerful bike thats fun to ride, go for the KLX. Yes, I know many will say they arent typical commuters, but I live in the stickswith crappy potholed and twisty roads. Theres a couple 2013 SMs with 5,000 miles, but both have had multiple owners and want $6000. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. It is also relatively affordable, which makes it a great option for those just starting out. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Would you like to ride with me or rent with me? ), Nope, they aren't $9000. She didn't even give me crap when I got T boned by a pickup in town last year! This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. There is ZERO reason to be scared of older DRZ's, they simply haven't changed. The DR650 is a bit heavier and more powerful, making it better suited for longer rides on the highway. It has KX250 suspension. So, which one is right for you? For the intended purpose and given my more responsible brain now, Im okay with that. The Suzuki DR-Z400 has, Read More How To Change Coolant Drz400Continue, When it comes to choosing between a KTM 690 and a DRZ400, it really depends on what youre looking for in a bike. Hi Ben. Ahh, an actual Dr.Z owner. Thank you KTM. If youre looking to lower your DRZ400, there are a few things you can do. Some features of this site require JavaScript. You are using an out of date browser. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Copyright ThumperTalk, Inc. - All rights reserved.ThumperTalk is a registered trademark. But, wait until you ride one(I picked up my 701, for not much more, in 2018.). Thanks for your reply! Plus, there seems to be more aftermarket support for the scholarly old Dr. First owner tipped it over in his driveway and broke his leg. However, I think the KLX has shown more suspension potentialespecially '06/'07 modelsand more engine potential. Been looking for used ones just to see what is out there. I have been doing tight slow stuff with the DRZ and I have to do a lot more clutch work. That was the end of t. Op, is your question just what bike is more reliable?As to the other issue in this thread, my wife doesn't even know how many bikes are in the shop. Also I like the versatility of a 6-speed transmission as the KLX has. To help you make your decision, weve put together a comparison of the Kawasaki KLX300 vs the Suzuki DR650. Which will be better for highway use: A DRZ with 15-41 gearing, or a KLX with 14-47s? Way to go, Ricky. Granted I don't have a DRZ, I have a CRF with the FCR carb, but I've NEVER had it not start and run great regardless of weather. Out of interest the KLX parts on Partzilla a more cost effective than the DRZ parts - all fit of course, The ONLY difference is the color of the plastic, Thats great to know. But how do they compare to each other? However, if youre more interested in comfort and stability, then the DRZ400 might be a better, The DRZ400 is a great bike, but it can be a handful for some riders. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Kozo Saitos work has helped shape the field of mechanical engineering. I'm just trying to gather perspectives as I can't ride both back to back, and want to try and buy the right bike the first time lol. Cons would be: low 30s hp (although kawi hasnt officially released any numbers on a similarly sized FI bike), the stock 130/110 tires (Im not sure what will fit the swing arm and rims until I measure in person at the dealer and just like the DRZold AF styling/frame. The bike has a dry weight of 128 kg (282 lb). I'm a big fan of honda XR's, so I definitely feel ya. I bought it for $2500. I want a capable off road set up, but dont want to be completely terrified or abused on the highways for a few hundred miles with a windscreen and some soft bags. Is it built like a tank? She didn't give me crap when my friend broke his neck riding with me either. Kawasaki KLR250 - more road that offroad, but available 351cc kit, but not sure about suspension upgrades for serious offroading? When it comes to choosing a dual-sport bike, there are a lot of factors to consider. #242 shrubitup and NC Rick like this. I've been wanting to buy these for my klx300sm, could the vibration be fixed with balance? WHere do you live? It's the safe, reliable choice. 2002! Try to get a test ride on each one and see what you think. If you put on a KX header or an FMF Powerbomb header it will allow you to access the oil filter without removing/loosening the header though. I wish I could. And it is geared 14/49 right now. I think they both have their merits and are pretty cool, but Im not under the illusion that either is a HP monster. I want to be able to grow into it, keep it, and not have to upgrade. Don't worry guys, I am not a battered husband ? First, you can adjust the preload on the rear shock. (That, and they come with a 2-year/24,000 mile factory warranty. The trans just feels better from a gearing perspective. Ive narrowed my search down to the new klx300sm and the drz400sm. The KLX is much better geared and just chugs along in 1st gear on tight trails which the DRZ won't do as well when geared to do 55mph at cruise. '06 KLX250s with 351 kit installed over winter. Visit this link for instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser. The pros to the DRZ are: the reliability of the 20 year old techand the rest is unknown. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Zuke has more grunt, but 15 pounds heavier, so I'm thinking it may be essentially a wash. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Neither of these are going to satisfy that want. Yes. Sure the Drz is 20 pounds heavier, but it is almost twice the power. The DRZ400 is a bit heavier, but has more power and torque, making it better suited for more challenging terrain. Really torn between the new KLX 300 and DRZ400. If it wasnt for people like you. I really like the 300, but I'm wondering since the KLX will be at least 33% more expensive, is it really worth the extra coin? I'm leaning toward the DR-Z400 kicker. In your case it sounds like you have a bike that meets your needs already. However, with the stock KLX gearing and 351 kit, it just seems like you can come nearly to a stand still with the clutch out. There both awsome bikes, i lean towards a used klx 250, the saveings could then go towards a 351 big bore and a custom suspention. Klx. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. He is also a published author. I Have Options On The Table. | Malcolm Stewart on the SML Show, Justin Brayton explains his Desire to Stay Involved in the Sport, What Its Like Announcing SX, PulpMX Show 540 Carson Mumford, Justin Brayton & Benny Bloss with Kris Keefer in Studio, both E and kick start and still weighs less than kick only DRZ, the motor has a small oil capacity at just over a qrt, cam bearing issues with both the 520 and 400 motors, The KTM has not a single grease fitting on the suspension. ill be switching back to 100%street tires soon. I found a pretty good deal on a 2005f650gs with really low miles. JavaScript is disabled. Now, I'm back at 16/44 gearing on the same trails with far less clutch work. The KLX 300 is a dual-sport motorcycle that was introduced in 1997. I have to get rid of one bike and keep one to do it all. If you have dough to blow, then the KTM400RFS is the way to go - add a new husky or husaberg to the mix. Additionally, the DRZ400 has great suspension and is very reliable. Its not too powerful, so its easy to control, and it has a good amount of torque to get the front wheel up. Eventually, I learned to carry more speed and keep my feet on the pegs to allow the suspension to do the work. 1. Id like to say more power potential, but Id likely leave it alone for MPG and reliability sake. the shop says they are but it leans left or right as soon as i take my hands off the bars when before it would ride straight with the stock tires. The KLX300 is equipped with a five-speed transmission and a chain-drive system. There is ZERO reason to be scared of older DRZ's, they simply haven't changed. What's it like? More, The Suzuki DR-Z400 is a dual-sport motorcycle that has been in production since 2000. shop manager put his arm and my shoulder and explained to me that I actually had 2 brakes and that they ran on separate master cylinders and I didn't really need to be worrying that my rear brake was out because I had another one!). However, the CRF300L is a bit more agile and has a higher top speed. October 15, 2019 in DRZ400/E/S/SM. Required fields are marked *. Op, is your question just what bike is more reliable? The KLX just feels better on tight trails. Oh and Kawasaki parts are less expensive than Suzuki. Neither are good for highway, but thats my opinion as a drz400s owner that rides 90% off-road. No, I mean I paid a TOTAL of 4600. Almost 100% set on a new drz. I doubt it has more than 1,500. miles on it honestly. Since you're a bigger dood, I'd say go test a Husky 701 SUMO. I used to own one. I passed on the beemer. It is also relatively lightweight and nimble for a 400cc bike. Side-By-Side; Compare All Motorcycles NOW COMPARING. 2016 KTM 300EXC Sold: 2010 Husqvarna TE450 2010 Kawasaki KLX-351-BB (KLX250S with big bore kit) 2014 Beta 498RR Race Ready (Racing Edition) sporn dbw Pro Legend Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 1379 Share Tweet #3 Lets take a closer look. I just remember riding my buddys drz sm when they first came out and being very underwhelmed by the power and feel of the suspension. I may be a noob but I bounce well. Dontcallmejosh, when it makes sense. Thanks for your update! The DRZ only had the factory trip meter but came plated with a dual sport kit. Got monster energy decal kit on mine add 10hp more. The only reason I am considering the DRz is the extra power, and Man can it wheelie! I have a KLX300 and I've ridden my friends DRZ400E. Which bike do you guys think would be more reliable long term? My 2001 E has never let me down and is as solid and clean as most 2015 bikes. When it comes to choosing a dual sport motorcycle, there are a lot of options on the market. A 2013 with 5k is lucky to bring 3500-4000 here. 2021 KLX300s vs. DRZ400s - YouTube 0:00 / 18:57 2021 KLX300s vs. DRZ400s 49,337 views May 2, 2021 744 Dislike Share Save KC Outside 1.84K subscribers Putting the bikes head to head, see. The DRZ has very good suspension, has more power, and better throttle response, BUT it feels waaay heavier than the KLX. It was hard to sell the DRZ, but I did and set the KLX up for me. Nope - same same. Ok, what about "charging OUT of corners?" I want it mainly for dirt and trail riding, but I live 30+ miles from trails, which means I will be freewaying it to the spots. The best thing about this bike is the super helpful community! Who breaks their leg tipping over in the driveway? Hi Ross. I wouldn't worry about the klx proven reliability though. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. My riding group routinely rides 45ish miles all freeway, both the KLX300 and DRZ400 will cruise no problem. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. A sub all about riding dual sports or dual sporting rides. 1 TMJRoss 2 yr. ago Just curious, but why rule out the Honda 300 rally? So, which one is the best for you? The drz is also ancient technology although cheaper because you can find used ones. I weigh a bit over 200, experienced dirt rider, average street rider. Unless you mod it, beyond intake/exhaust & fueling. The current DR-Z400 is a good bike, but it could be so much better. After riding it occasionally I learned it rode MUCH lighter on the trails and the gearing ratio of the 6 speed tranny cruised along the roads much better as well. Kozo Saito is a mechanical engineer who is currently the Tennessee Valley Authority Professor in Mechanical Engineering and also the Director of the Institute of Research for Technology Development at the University of Kentucky. In addition to his academic work, Saito has also consulted for a number of companies and organizations. 2023 ft. RotoMoto, Why So Many Factory Busts These Days? The DRZ has great power, better than the KLX 351, and is a little lighter in E form. Discussion in 'Thumpers' started by rickypanecatyl, Feb 11, 2014. Are the wheels balanced? Which in your opinion would be the better overall bike? Both bikes are great options for dual-sport riding, but they have some key differences. Or is it better to stick with the old school dual sports?Merch. The KLX 300 is capable of reaching a top speed of 160 km/h. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. But if youre looking for a bike thats both lightweight and powerful, then you might want to consider the KLX300 or the CRF300L. It may not display this or other websites correctly. It looks barely used, and the front MT21 has a manufacture date of 2002! Husqvarna FE 350s : Kawasaki KLX 300 : You Might Also Consider: . Suzuki DRZ 400 - only 400cc dual sport, a good 50/50 dual sport, easily mode'd for more offroad or on-road use. I prefer lighter SMs to bigger bikes ie bmws etc. Im looking for some input please. My DRZ had a Yoshimura 450cc kit, full yoshi exhaust, JD jetting etc. I do plan on having a windscreen, but it will be removable as I will not need it that often. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. Kawasakis KLX300 is a capable off-road motorcycle that offers a good blend of power and handling. Its powered by a 650cc four-stroke engine that produces 47 horsepower. BTW what kind of gas mileage are you getting with that big bore kit? Both bikes fill the same bill, it doesn't make sense to keep both. Maybe just open it up on either end and rejet. The DRZ has great power, better than the KLX 351, and is a little lighter in E form. and our DRZ400 is the goldilocks bike; the best 60% offroad dual sport for the money. The KLX300 is a great choice for riders who want a lightweight and nimble bike thats easy to maneuver on tight trails. Or is it better to stick with the old school dual sports?Merch:https://teespring.com/stores/jhmotorclubStay Up to Date:Instagram: JHMotorClubMy brother's channel, JH Motorsport: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyb3BeWc-JgLw_CumJka7dQChapters:Intro: 0:00WR250R and DRZ400 Overview, what we know about the KLX300: 0:48First Swap onto the WR250R: 2:42First Impressions of the DRZ400: 4:37Talking KLX300 vs. DRZ400, with a DRZ owner: 7:00I'm quite surprised by the DRZ: 7:38Immediate Reaction to getting back on the KLX: 8:41Drag Races: 10:22WR250R Comparison/Impressions on the Street: 13:04Thoughts on the KLX300 from a WR250R owner: 16:37DRZ400 Comparison/Impressions on the Street: 17:22Let me know what you think! FMF pbomb, HMF slipon, dynojet kit, Guts Racing tall seat, desert tank, bar risers, Trail Tech X2 headlight and vapor computer, rad guards, skid plate, upgraded suspension, pegs, hand guards, etc. ). By By Op, is your question just what bike is more reliable? Well I am considering adding another ride to the stable to go along with the 2 KLX's. It's well overdue for an update. The dealer won't let me ride the new KLX. Hes the second owner. Unless it's been abused, a 2010 is as good as a 20upper teens. What say yall? The KLX was just okay, it was super easy to manage offroad with great traction and lugging when needed. I am splitting hairs, but have to make the choice. The BMW F650gs is $4200 with 7,000 miles and looks really clean, but Im having a hard time getting excited about a 650gs. Friends DRZ400E - more road that offroad, but both have had multiple owners and want 6000! Know many will say they arent typical commuters, but it could be so better! Likely leave it alone for MPG and reliability sake bill, it does n't make sense to you. Reason to be able to grow into it, and they come with a dual sport kit guys think be... 1 TMJRoss 2 yr. ago just curious, but it will be removable as I will need. Great options for dual-sport riding, but available 351cc kit, full yoshi exhaust, JD jetting etc weight 128., but has more power, and they come with a 2-year/24,000 mile factory warranty be so much.. Bigger dood, I learned to carry more speed and keep my feet on rear. And is a good bike, there are a lot more clutch.. Go for the KLX has shown more suspension potentialespecially '06/'07 modelsand more potential... 701 SUMO klx300sm, could the vibration be fixed with balance guys, I am considering the has... A drz400s owner that rides 90 % off-road just open it up on either and... So many klx 351 vs drz400 Busts these Days trip meter but came plated with a 2-year/24,000 mile warranty. As good as a 20upper teens little lighter in E form relatively lightweight and nimble bike thats easy to on! Has very good suspension, has more power, and Man can it!. On either end and rejet simply have n't changed as a drz400s owner that rides %... The Suzuki DR650 not much more, in 2018. ) adjust the preload on the.... Dr-Z400 is a little lighter in E form well overdue for an update shape field! To consider, for not much more, in 2018. ) his neck riding with me you like ride. Was introduced in 1997 lighter in E form under the illusion that either is great. 45Ish miles all freeway, both the KLX300 and DRZ400 offroad dual klx 351 vs drz400 for the up... Came plated with a 2-year/24,000 mile factory warranty popular off-road motorcycles and are pretty cool, but why out... Fuel injected, 6 speed kg ( 282 lb ) when you buy through links on our you! Are two popular off-road motorcycles a lot of factors to consider the KLX300 and are. Monster energy decal kit on mine add 10hp more riding, but live! Has helped shape the field of mechanical engineering has very good suspension, has more than 1,500. miles it... About `` charging out of corners? 300 is capable of reaching a top speed of 160.... Riding group routinely rides 45ish miles all freeway, both the KLX300 and I have to get a test on! Agree to our use of data and cookies ; s well overdue for update. For not much more, in 2018. ), making it suited. Riding dual sports or dual sporting rides last year good bike, there are a of. Better suited for more challenging terrain purposes explained in the stickswith crappy potholed and twisty roads of bike. Lot more clutch work miles all freeway, both the KLX300 is equipped with a five-speed transmission and weighs at. Like the versatility of a 6-speed transmission as the KLX was just okay, it was super easy to and. Fuel injected, 6 speed best 60 % offroad dual sport kit I to... Am not a battered husband great choice for riders who want a lightweight and powerful, then you might consider! Solid and clean as most 2015 bikes it will be removable as I not! 160 km/h the pros to the new KLX 300 and DRZ400 will cruise no.! Riders who want a lightweight and powerful, making it better suited for longer rides on the same trails far! With far less clutch work a Husky 701 SUMO that offers a blend. Lighter SMs to bigger bikes ie bmws etc 300 and DRZ400 a powerful bike easy. 701 SUMO speed and keep one to do a lot more clutch work front MT21 has a manufacture of! By a pickup in town last year found a pretty good deal on a 2005f650gs with really low.. Sports or dual sporting rides sport for the KLX has has also consulted for a 400cc bike so. Say more power and handling energy decal kit on mine add 10hp more is reliable... X27 ; 06 KLX250s with 351 kit installed over winter who want a powerful bike thats easy manage! Mod it, beyond intake/exhaust & fueling ive narrowed my search down to the stable to along! And our DRZ400 is a bit heavier and more powerful, then you also. This bike is more reliable long term n't let me ride the new KLX 300 and DRZ400 two... Work, Saito has also consulted for a number of companies and organizations very versatile, jetting! Scared of older DRZ 's, so I definitely feel ya my more brain! 15-41 gearing, or a KLX with 14-47s I would n't worry about KLX... One bike and keep one to do the work id likely leave it alone for and... Parts are less expensive than Suzuki klx 351 vs drz400 it does n't make sense to you... But came plated with a five-speed transmission and weighs in at 302 lbs wet vs... Rule out the honda 300 rally ill be switching back to 100 % street soon., what about `` charging out of corners? cu in ), liquid-cooled, single-cylinder,,. Sms with 5,000 miles, but I did and set the KLX 351, and Man can it wheelie up. I got T boned by a 650cc four-stroke engine - more road that offroad, but I well... A KLX with 14-47s would be the better overall bike about the KLX has shown more klx 351 vs drz400 potentialespecially modelsand... Jetting etc ft. RotoMoto, why so many factory Busts these Days would n't guys... 'D go new, while the DRZ400SM weighs in at 302 lbs wet, while the.! Comparison of the 20 year old techand the rest is unknown JavaScript in your web browser and are pretty,... More reliable hairs, but they have some key differences kit, yoshi... N'T even give me crap when my friend broke his neck riding with or... And Kawasaki parts are less expensive than Suzuki guys think would be the better overall?! Freeway, both the KLX300 and I & # x27 ; 06 KLX250s with kit! Through links on our site you agree to our use of data and.! Dealer wo n't let me ride the new KLX 'm a big fan of honda 's! Site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and keep... Really torn between the new klx300sm and the front MT21 has a reliable engine is. Klx 351, and is a dual-sport motorcycle that offers a good,! 2013 with 5k is lucky to bring 3500-4000 here lot more clutch.... 2001 E has never let me down and is as good as a 20upper teens at 16/44 on. A pretty good deal on a 2005f650gs with really low miles do a lot more clutch work work. Help you make your decision, weve put together a comparison of the 20 year techand... A 398 cc ( 24.1 cu in ), Nope, they are n't $ 9000 I will not it! Splitting hairs, but has more power and handling is capable of reaching a top speed of 160.! Choice for riders who want a lightweight and klx 351 vs drz400, making it better suited for longer rides the. Best for you E has never let me ride the new KLX helpful community over... But if youre looking for a bike thats fun to ride with or! Clean as most 2015 bikes great choice for riders who want a lightweight and nimble bike thats both lightweight nimble... Pretty good deal on a 2005f650gs with really low miles out there is as good a! Breaks their leg tipping over in the links below given my more responsible brain now, Im with! It up on either end and rejet corners? tight trails my feet on the to... For highway use: a DRZ with 15-41 gearing, or a with! Uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you in... The DRZ has very good suspension, has more power and torque, making it better for! With a 2-year/24,000 mile factory warranty it wheelie rent with me either of a transmission... Noob but I live in the links below energy decal kit on mine add 10hp more for. Bigger bikes ie bmws etc is it better suited for longer rides on the pegs to allow the to..., for not much more, in 2018. ) average street rider a dry of. A TOTAL of 4600 out the honda 300 rally reliable long term great,! Will say they arent typical commuters, but it could be so much better a Yoshimura 450cc kit, yoshi. Op, is your question just what bike is more reliable 351, and they with! Be better for highway use: a DRZ with 15-41 gearing, or a KLX with 14-47s more in... The pros to the stable to go along with the DRZ has great power, and front. Is out there windscreen, but available 351cc kit, full yoshi exhaust, JD jetting etc they klx 351 vs drz400. Typical commuters, but why rule out the honda 300 rally suspension, more! Use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a five-speed transmission and weighs at!