Suzuki Drz400s
The Suzuki Drz400s has a top speed of 145 km/h (estimated; note: varies with rider weight, gearing, and conditions), produces 33 hp and weighs 138 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The Suzuki DRZ400S was introduced in 2000 as a street-legal dual-sport version of the DRZ400 platform, which also spawned the DRZ400E (enduro) and DRZ400SM (supermoto) variants. It quickly gained a reputation for its bulletproof reliability, low maintenance, and versatility across both on-road and off-road riding. The DRZ400S became a cult favorite among adventure and dual-sport riders, remaining in continuous production largely unchanged for over two decades — a testament to its solid original design.
33 hp
Power
34 Nm
Torque
138 kg
Weight
145 km/h (estimated; note: varies with rider weight, gearing, and conditions)
Top Speed
3.5–4.5 L/100km (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Bulletproof Engine Reliability
The DRZ400S uses a thumper single-cylinder engine known for lasting well over 50,000 miles with basic maintenance. It's widely considered one of the most reliable dual-sport engines ever built.
Watch the Carb & Valves
The stock Mikuni BSR36 carburetor is notorious for running lean and should be re-jetted, especially if an exhaust or airbox mod has been done. Also check valve clearances, as they're often neglected by previous owners.
Holds Value Exceptionally Well
The DRZ400S retains resale value better than almost any other dual-sport, often selling used for close to original MSRP. High demand and a loyal fanbase keep prices strong even on high-mileage examples.
Generations & Specs by Year
Initial launch with 398cc liquid-oil cooled single, dual-sport configuration, 43mm Showa forks, kickstart only.
"The bulletproof Swiss Army knife that never lets you down."
I put 22,000 km on a 2003 DRZ400S across fire roads, commutes, and one ill-advised track day, and the thing just refused to break. The 398cc thumper has this satisfying, chest-thumping torque delivery that makes tight singletrack feel almost effortless, though you'll feel every vibration through your palms on long highway slogs above 110 km/h. That kickstart-only setup is genuinely annoying on cold mornings — choke ritual, three kicks minimum, fourth if you forgot the drill — and the 935mm seat height means shorter riders are always negotiating with gravity at stops. But strip away the frustrations and you've got a bike that forgives novice mistakes off-road, rewards throttle confidence, and will still be running fine when everything else in your garage has been to the dealer twice.
Pros
Cons
Minor updates including revised graphics and color schemes; mechanical specifications largely unchanged from original design.
Used Buyer Review
"The most dependable used dual-sport your money can buy."
$3,500-$6,500 usedThe DRZ400S is the cockroach of motorcycles — it simply refuses to die, and that's exactly why you should consider one. Suzuki built this thing with embarrassing simplicity: carbureted, air-cooled, bulletproof. I've seen examples with 30,000+ miles still running strong on original internals. The Mikuni carb does ice over in cold weather and the stock jetting is lean, but a $15 jet kit fixes that permanently. Buy one that's already been rejetted and you're golden.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Suzuki Drz400s — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALPopping on decel, sluggish throttle response mid-range
Battery dying frequently, check voltage at idle
Cold-start rattle near top of engine
Uneven brake feel, rotor heat after short rides
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Very reliable, easy to maintain, long-lasting engine
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Suzuki Drz400s
Suzuki Dr-z400
Kawasaki Klx 300
Honda Crf450l
Suzuki Dr-z 400
Suzuki Dr-z 400s
Compare Suzuki Drz400s Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Suzuki Drz400s vs Suzuki Dr-z400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Drz400s vs Kawasaki Klx 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Drz400s vs Honda Crf450l
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Drz400s vs Suzuki Dr-z 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Drz400s vs Suzuki Dr-z 400s
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Suzuki Drz400s Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Suzuki Drz400s? +
Carb jetting runs lean from factory: Popping on decel, sluggish throttle response mid-range (moderate) | Stator failure kills charging system: Battery dying frequently, check voltage at idle (serious) | Cam chain tensioner wear causes rattling: Cold-start rattle near top of engine (moderate)
Is the Suzuki Drz400s a good motorcycle? +
The most dependable used dual-sport your money can buy. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Commuters and weekend trail riders wanting reliability. Avoid if: You want serious motocross or highway touring.
What is the horsepower of the Suzuki Drz400s? +
The Suzuki Drz400s produces 33 hp @ 7,600 rpm, with 34 Nm @ 6,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 145 km/h (estimated; note: varies with rider weight, gearing, and conditions).
Is the Suzuki Drz400s good for beginners? +
Yes — the Suzuki Drz400s is a reasonable choice for new riders (33 hp is manageable), weighing 138 kg. Commuters and weekend trail riders wanting reliability
Is the Suzuki Drz400s reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Suzuki Drz400s, notably: Stator failure kills charging system (Battery dying frequently, check voltage at idle). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Suzuki Drz400s good for daily use? +
Commuters and weekend trail riders wanting reliability Fuel: 3.5–4.5 L/100km (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Suzuki Drz400s? +
The Suzuki Drz400s reaches a top speed of 145 km/h (estimated; note: varies with rider weight, gearing, and conditions), producing 33 hp at 138 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Suzuki Drz400s? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Suzuki Drz400s, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/suzuki/drz400s/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
