Suzuki DR-Z Motorcycles

Everything You Need to Know About the Suzuki DR Z Motorcycles

The Suzuki DRZ400 is a motorcycle meant to be ridden both off-road and on the streets and has been continuously manufactured since 2000. Its qualities and performance have been so highly touted that it has been used by both the Australian Army and the Rural Fire Service of New South Wales.

Basic features

Here is a basic explanation of the DRZ400's most important features. Some eBay listings may mention more than just the following things, but every thorough listing should mention at least the:

  • Engine: The DRAZ400 has a single 4-stroke, 398 cc, dual overhead camshaft, 4 valve engine.
  • Horsepower: 39
  • Top Speed: 183 kilometres per hour
  • Transmission: 5 speed
  • Brakes: Single disc, 250 millimetre , 2-piston caliper front brake and single disc, 220 mm, 1-piston caliper rear brakes
  • Fuel Capacity: 10 litres
  • Dimensions: 2310 millimetres x 875 millimetres x 1230 millimetres
  • Weight: 145 kilograms

Even with this information, it's always best to check the manufacturer's site for full details.

Are there different variants of the DRZ400?

Four different variants of the Suzuki DRZ400 have been produced. Their designations and differences include:

  • DRZ400: This version of the bike is kick-start only.
  • DRZ400E: This version of the bike is electric-start only.
  • DRZ400S: This is version is electric-start only and is much like the DRZ400SM, except slightly larger, measuring at 2310 millimetres x 875 millimetres x 1230 millimetres.
  • DRZ400SM: First made in 2005, this version comes with 430 mm sport bike-inspired wheels, oversized front and rear brakes, an RMZ rear swing-arm, and inverted forks. It's built specifically for racing and designed to be as fast as possible. It measures at at 2225 millimetres x 855 millimetres x 1200 millimetres
How should you choose a used DZR400?

The DRZ400 has remained in continuous production since its launch in 2000, so it's possible to find even quite recent models for sale that have minimal wear and tear on them. However, the majority of eBay listings are for models dating from the early to mid-2000s. Therefore, here are some things to remember when shopping around for a used motorcycle:

  • The fewer miles that a model has on it, the more expensive it will be. The opposite also applies.
  • The older the model year of some given DRZ400, the less expensive it will be.
  • Look carefully through the information provided in each listing. The more information that is provided, the more likely the vendor is to be reliable.