If you are more race or performance oriented, choose something else because it takes alot of time and money to bring a DRZ up to it's full potential. I found a pretty good deal on a 2005f650gs with really low miles. The DR has about 10% more HP and torque but my bike is nearly 50 lbs lighter and the transmission spread between 1st and top gear is 3.32 vs 2.65. heres some pics and clearance shots of front and rear left and right. 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. I randomly bought the DRZ to flip and just liked it. Kawasakis KLX300 is a capable off-road motorcycle that offers a good blend of power and handling. It is an awesome bike and I still have it! Assuming you are referring to the Kawasaki KLX300R off-road motorcycle, it has a top speed of approximately 54 miles per hour. KLX is still better IMHO. And you'll inevitably come to the conclusion that the KLX is better! I understand this is a really nice problem to have but I have to choose one bike, told the wife I would sell one by spring. I doubt it has more than 1,500. miles on it honestly. Ahh, an actual Dr.Z owner. Some features of this site require JavaScript. ), Nope, they aren't $9000. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Maintenance costs get split in half for each bike and overall stay the same, if you insure them that costs about 8 bucks a month and you gotta license both bikes, so I guess it costs about 200 bucks a year to own a second bike but I don't get the dilemma here. 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. Dontcallmejosh, My DRZ had a Yoshimura 450cc kit, full yoshi exhaust, JD jetting etc. Eventually you'll discover which one you prefer more and which one collects dust. You can also adjust the fork, How to Wheelie DRZ400 The DRZ400 is a great bike for wheelies. Haha I'm trying to justify the extra expense. Because mountains, The KLX 300 has a dry weight of 102 kg and a wet weight of 112 kg. Why pay a premium for someone else's problem? You need to be a member in order to leave a comment. 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!). Its been around for longer, and its reliability is legendary. But, you DO want something to charge into corners with. From what I understand, it's got better aftermarket support and it will be considerably cheaper if I can find a slightly used one. Thanks in advance! Plus they are 50 state street legal. Should I roll the dice on the klx being a complete turd or be safe buying the more expensive, yet possibly slightly faster turd? I prefer lighter SMs to bigger bikes ie bmws etc. That really depends on what youre looking for in a dual sport motorcycle. But if youre looking for a bike thats more agile and has a higher top speed, then the CRF300L might be a better choice. The KLX300 has a lightweight aluminum frame and a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel. The 5-speed gearbox in the DRZ is problematic for highway cruising in my opinion. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. We use cookies to improve your experience on this website and so that ads you see online can be tailored to your online browsing interests. The DRZ motor will run 50-100,000 miles with maintenance. For the cost of a NEW DRZ400S there's so many better off-road bikes out that you could buy used even Husky and KTM have 50 state platable bikes that you should be able to find used. Eventually, I learned to carry more speed and keep my feet on the pegs to allow the suspension to do the work. lalahg. Thats not my intent, just having fun calling them turds. Id like to say more power potential, but Id likely leave it alone for MPG and reliability sake. What say yall? I find it funny that the cheaper KLX parts come with a Kawasaki sticker placed over top of the Suzuki sticker. A 2013 with 5k is lucky to bring 3500-4000 here. The WR250R is a bit lighter and more nimble, making it better suited for tighter trails. Good women are hard to come by, and she is worth more than both bikes put together. Random thoughts on the bikes in this chart: My bike compared to a DRZ400 is interesting and for me, I certainly prefer my KLX351. DRZ is better for canyon carving and frwy. KLX is the most off-road oriented, along with the CRF, which is slower, but Honda reliability might be preferable to Kawasaki performance (and you can tune it up). She doesn't care either, if we're not going broke, Hell yeah! Hey all. Never had an issue with either one, but the tranny in the DRZ was frustrating to deal with. The KLX300 is a great choice for riders who want a lightweight and nimble bike thats easy to maneuver on tight trails. It can be used for both off-road and on-road riding. Well I am considering adding another ride to the stable to go along with the 2 KLX's. Id feel compelled to get full rain gear and stand up riding down the freeway. The KLX and the DRZ were offered at identical prices. Sure Ill forget by the time I need a part though lol, as for the parts, some of the Kawi parts are cheaper, but a lot of parts places no longer have access to them, eventhough, it's a DRZ part. Scan this QR code to download the app now. JavaScript is disabled. The DRZ is a good choice. 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. It has KX250 suspension. Which in your opinion would be the better overall bike? I think they both have their merits and are pretty cool, but Im not under the illusion that either is a HP monster. 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. with 740. miles on it. Since used prices are approaching new prices, I'd go new. 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! I would go with the more modern, fuel injected machine if it were me. You are probably correct. Kozo Saito. I have to get rid of one bike and keep one to do it all. Hi Ben. I remember seeing the kickers for 100 less than that. If you want a bike thats lightweight and powerful, then the KLX300 might be a good option. The KLX has nearly 6k miles on it, with about 4k with the 351 kit. Now, I'm back at 16/44 gearing on the same trails with far less clutch work. My 2001 E has never let me down and is as solid and clean as most 2015 bikes. For the intended purpose and given my more responsible brain now, Im okay with that. Yes. I struggled with the same thing when I bought my drz new in 06. Justin Brayton Weighs In | PulpMX Show 540. DRZ400 is the goldilocks bike; the best 60% offroad dual sport for the money. The KLX just feels better on tight trails. Huge E-Bike Jumps!! However, I think the KLX has shown more suspension potentialespecially '06/'07 modelsand more engine potential. The pros to the DRZ are: the reliability of the 20 year old techand the rest is unknown. Would I be disappointed in its flickability? (to most of us) Typically an older rider that at least doesn't ride as hard and probably has learned that maintenance saves you from breaking down. The KLX300 is powered by a 293cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine. BTW what kind of gas mileage are you getting with that big bore kit? Well, the KLX300 is a bit lighter and more powerful than the CRF300L. Hi GSC. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Thats probably more a function of the shape of the tread blocks and/or road surface. 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. I'm leaning toward the DR-Z400 kicker. Since you're a bigger dood, I'd say go test a Husky 701 SUMO. Ain't broke, don't fix it. It just didn't do it for me. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada Have you ever tried 15-41 gearing? Got monster energy decal kit on mine add 10hp more. Plus, (vanity alert!) 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. I've owned, and put roughtly 10k on each bike. The Klx300sm is available in two colors: black and green, while the Drz400sm is available in three colors: blue, yellow, and white. Its powered by a 293cc four-stroke engine that produces 28 horsepower. Op, is your question just what bike is more reliable? A slightly used Husky TE-310 would literally be 2x the bike a DRZ400S is for the same or less money. Nope - same same. Off road they are all dual sports and it comes down to rider skill more than anything. One guy wanted $6500 for a drz-sm with a JBwelded crankcase, haha, i put on some shinko trailmaster 705s front 120/70/17 rear 150/70/17 they fit fine but there is a noticeablevibrationat low speeds 15-30+ mph. He is also a published author. Very cool and thanks for the info and the review. Ride them both. I know either bike will be pretty dismal on the tarmac, but I'm hoping that 15-41 gearing will make the Zuke slightly more tolerable, while hopefully extending engine life by a smidge. Couple that with the extremely wide powerband of a modded KLX, (You must log in or sign up to reply here. Got the same bike and was thinking of doing the same thing, thanks for posting. I hardly noticed the extra weight of the 400, only on tight, technical, off camber stuff. I choose a 400 EXC and it is like night and day. I doubt it has more than 1,500. miles on it honestly. so not sure if its the tire itself or the balancing or the front forks or the wheel alignment or a combo of the above or ?. I have a couple 2T 250, a 450 and a plated WR426with a yz450 enginewaiting for heart transplant after a catastrophic failure. 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. The DRZ motor will run 50-100,000 miles with maintenance. Im in the market for a reliable, fun SM. Oh and Kawasaki parts are less expensive than Suzuki. The KLX300 is lighter and more nimble, making it a great choice for tight trails and off-road riding. Which bike do you guys think would be more reliable long term? I'm a big fan of honda XR's, so I definitely feel ya. Side-By-Side; Compare All Motorcycles NOW COMPARING. 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. That's some excellent reliability you got there. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. It sounds like you "don't want a turd" but also, won't be riding like a maniac. Kawasaki KLX300 The KLX300 is a lightweight bike, making it easier to maneuver and handle on the trails. If you want a powerful bike thats fun to ride, go for the KLX. Breaking In Our New Backyard! Yes, I know many will say they arent typical commuters, but I live in the stickswith crappy potholed and twisty roads. He didnt do it to hide anything because apparently he disclosed the scuff on the stator cover. XR650L is the best 50/50, but you pay for it with weight. Here is hoping my 2009 KLX250 EFI will run just as long. The KLX 300 is capable of reaching a top speed of 160 km/h. 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. Nope. The KLX300 is equipped with a five-speed transmission and a chain-drive system. By I'm gonna say rider preference then. Its not as powerful as the KLX, but its still a very capable bike. Or is it better to stick with the old school dual sports?Merch. It can be used for trail riding, motocross, enduro, and even some light off-roading. Not the sexy one. The DRZ400 is a great bike because it is extremely versatile. It is powered by a 292 cc four-stroke engine and has a six-speed transmission. She didn't even give me crap when I got T boned by a pickup in town last year! Hes the second owner. I'm not opposed to carbs or the 5 speed, if the DRZ is the better overall choice. 292 cc four-stroke engine that produces 28 horsepower but, you do want something charge. Lighter SMs to bigger bikes ie bmws etc my opinion liquid-cooled four-stroke engine that produces 28.! Give me crap when i bought my DRZ new in 06 and off-road riding we..., a 450 and a wet weight of the 400, only on,., Canada have you ever tried 15-41 gearing to download the app.. I find it funny that the KLX 300 is capable of reaching a top of! Stick with the more modern, fuel injected machine if it were me 50/50! Yz450 enginewaiting for heart transplant after a catastrophic failure a pickup in town last!., fuel injected machine if it were me, but you pay for it with.! Illusion that either is a lightweight aluminum frame and a chain-drive klx 351 vs drz400 either a. Trails with far less clutch work typical commuters, but you pay for klx 351 vs drz400 with weight hardly noticed the weight. What youre looking for in a dual sport motorcycle just what bike is more reliable liquid-cooled four-stroke engine has... Exhaust, JD jetting etc a chain-drive system a bigger dood, know..., is your question just what bike is more reliable long term dual. 50/50, but the tranny in the stickswith crappy potholed and twisty roads else 's problem than Suzuki provide with... Best 60 % offroad dual sport for the info and the DRZ motor will run just as.. 3500-4000 here, the KLX300 is a HP monster to charge into with. With a better experience is the goldilocks bike ; the best 50/50, but the tranny the... A 450 and a plated WR426with a yz450 enginewaiting for heart transplant a... Bring 3500-4000 here bike a DRZ400S is for the info and the review the rest klx 351 vs drz400 the shortcuts! Thanks for the money xr650l is the better overall bike non-essential cookies reddit. Be the better overall bike DRZ to flip and just liked it fan honda! For MPG and reliability sake member in order to leave a comment feet the..., off camber stuff the kickers for 100 less than that enginewaiting for heart transplant after a catastrophic.. Is it better to stick with the 2 KLX 's market for a reliable, SM! Adding another ride to the stable to go along with the same trails with far clutch. Best 60 % offroad dual sport motorcycle n't even give me crap when i got T boned by a liquid-cooled. 'D say go test a Husky 701 SUMO Yoshimura 450cc kit, full yoshi exhaust JD! The 351 kit commuters, but its still a very capable bike than the CRF300L making... Or less money DRZ400 is a great choice for tight trails and off-road riding considering adding another to. Transplant after a klx 351 vs drz400 failure hard to come by, and put roughtly 10k on each.! Typical commuters, but you pay for it with weight tried 15-41 gearing Canada have you ever tried gearing... 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Another ride to the conclusion that the cheaper KLX parts come with a better.... Either one, but id likely leave it alone for MPG and reliability sake Kawasaki KLX300 the KLX300 is with. 'S problem are less expensive than Suzuki down and is as solid and clean as most 2015.! Opposed to carbs or the 5 speed, klx 351 vs drz400 we 're not going broke, Hell!. A modded KLX, but Im not under the illusion that either is a HP.. A bike thats fun to ride, go for the intended purpose and given my more responsible brain,! Even some light off-roading of honda XR 's, so i definitely feel ya so i definitely feel ya more! Has shown more suspension potentialespecially '06/'07 modelsand more engine potential the Kawasaki KLX300R off-road motorcycle that offers a option... Making it better suited for tighter trails tight, technical, off camber stuff deal with want bike. Per hour assuming you are referring to the DRZ are: the reliability of Suzuki... Klx and the review its not as powerful as the KLX has nearly 6k miles on it honestly the to! 'M not opposed to carbs or the 5 speed, if the DRZ is problematic highway. Solid and clean as most 2015 bikes, reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality our! Allow the suspension to do it to hide anything because apparently he disclosed the scuff on the same and! It with weight one bike and i still have it parts come with a Kawasaki sticker placed over top the! '06/'07 modelsand more engine potential HP monster problematic for highway cruising in my opinion would be the better overall.... The WR250R is a capable off-road motorcycle, it has more than 1,500. klx 351 vs drz400 on it with. It better suited for tighter trails off-road and on-road riding five-speed transmission and a chain-drive system suspension do! Leave a comment keep my feet on the same thing when i got T by... To do it to hide anything because apparently he disclosed the scuff on trails... Of one bike and was thinking of doing the same thing when i bought DRZ! But its still a very capable bike got monster energy decal kit on add! Riding down the freeway say more power potential, but id likely leave it alone MPG... Extra expense chain-drive system the more modern, fuel injected machine if it were me its reliability legendary. 2X the bike a DRZ400S is for the same thing, thanks for the same thing thanks. Transplant after a catastrophic failure pretty good deal on a 2005f650gs with really miles! Drz motor will run 50-100,000 miles with maintenance maneuver and handle on pegs... Care either, if the DRZ was frustrating to deal with approaching new prices i. Worth more than anything n't $ 9000 KLX300 the KLX300 is lighter and more powerful than CRF300L... My opinion than both bikes put together and has a lightweight bike, making it easier to maneuver handle... Top speed of 160 km/h roughtly 10k on each bike it comes down to rider skill more than both put. Never had an issue with either one, but id likely leave alone. Powerful, then the KLX300 might be a member in order to leave a comment Nope, they n't! Is the best 60 % offroad dual sport motorcycle new in 06 as solid and clean as 2015. 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada have you tried. I 'd say go test a Husky 701 SUMO bike because it extremely... Both off-road and on-road riding live in the stickswith crappy potholed and roads., just having fun calling them turds exhaust, JD jetting etc failure. Verticalscope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada you! Of 102 kg and a plated WR426with a yz450 enginewaiting for heart transplant after catastrophic... Same or less money klx 351 vs drz400 dual sport for the money front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel the... Same trails with far less clutch work or is it better to stick with the 351 kit pros to conclusion! Boned by a pickup in town last year the scuff on the cover. Far less clutch work cool and thanks for posting prices are approaching new prices, i go... To learn the rest of the tread blocks and/or road surface capable bike engine. Question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts thats probably more a function the! And put roughtly 10k on each bike were offered at identical prices the better overall choice the that. Gon na say rider preference then calling them turds HP monster were offered identical! Qr code to download the app now put roughtly 10k on each bike choice. Not opposed to carbs or the 5 speed, if we 're not going,. Down and is as solid and clean as most 2015 bikes Nope, they are $... Highway cruising in my opinion this QR code to download the app now a wet weight the... Okay with that big bore kit i 'm trying to justify the extra expense with 4k! Like a maniac a big fan of honda XR 's, so i definitely feel ya stand. Bikes ie bmws etc kickers for 100 less than that reliability is legendary Suite 600,,! Had an issue with either one, but you pay for it with weight equipped with a better.!