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I'd subconsciously not considered a DRZ400's due to them being so popular, but there has to be a reason why they're everywhere. From what I gather the DRZ400 is heavier than a DR350 but also has more power, so more pondering required. To be fair if either was for sale locally I'd probably consider it.
jambon-
Well some would argue the age of the DR350 is reason enough to avoid. Mine’s a ‘98 model reg’d 99 and so far everything I’ve needed can be sourced OEM or pattern. I have two sets of wheels + brake pads (from FB group), rebuilt the front and rear callipers with kits, new speedo cable, sourced a spare from fairing and speedo housing (from FB group), mechanics ordered me the Acerbis 16L tank, and sourced a number of small parts too. Plus other stuff too I guess. Some parts are getting expensive but the point is that almost everything is available.
Similarly, the DRZ has more power and is newer but you pay up to double for the privilege.
Unfortunately the price of any enduro/dual sport bike is rising as greenlaning gains popularity. Both the DR350 and DRZ400 have lots of versions so be careful to source a trail-worthy version and pay the right price for the right version. Probably you know this but 350 you need ‘96 or newer for E-start and ideally unmolested or else check the previous owner did the mods properly. 400, make sure it’s a trail not a supermoto, check wheelset and speedo etc.
To be honest if you’re knackered (or drop it in a river like me) the extra kilos will be an issue when picking it up, but I’d sooner ride the DR or DRZ with the right gearing (and fuel tank) than some alternatives.
pdlouche
Yea the KTM “ Keep Taking Money ” 2-smoker is definitely going to give you double the power and a greater top speed, at a fraction of the weight. I believe that you really need luck on your side to get a good one and not a Monday or a Friday bike, and must be willing to throw money at it until it feels like good money after bad.
Is the weight of a CRF450 or a DR-Z400 + big Acerbis tank out of the question?