I was thinking the same. Mine is no way as pretty. Something horrible happened to it. It met me. A few brutal rides full throttle and they never look the same. LoL.
Yeah, the SM is a better bike in general. Bigger brakes etc. When guys turn their S into a SM, that makes less sense. I bought an SM and it's staying an SM.
@@atypical_moto the suspension is amazing on the sm compared to the s. Im going to buy dirtbike wheels, chain and sprockets for the ultimate 2 in 1 bike.
@@blixxy1320 Gonna have to disagree. The stock S has factory RM250 suspension from 1998. The stock SM is from the 1999 model. They're both great. Only difference inverted forks make is that they're slightly more ridged due to greater cross sectional area at the triple clamp, and so you get ever so slightly better feedback. This is more important on road than off, and so you see it on the SM model. However, the S model has 1.1 inches extra travel, and so anyone off road biased should get the S model. The real kicker is that the smaller off road rotor cannot be used with the SM forks as the caliper mount is part of the lower fork tube casting while the S can be fitted with an adapter and run both the smaller S model rotor and the larger SM rotor. That fact along with the ability to lower the S forks in the triples and achieve the same rake angle as the SM means the S model is a bit more versatile overall.
I've had some very nice bikes over the years, some KTM's and Motocrossers but this DRZ is awesome. After getting out my 525EXC I've seen the light and am looking for a DRZ400 for the same reasons others love them....reliability, bullet proof and ease of ownership. No fuss, do it all rig. KTM, as nice as they are just cost too much in upkeep. I just want to have fun without the headaches.
Wow for the Honda from 1972. I had a Kawasaki 175 Enduro from around 71/72. Loved it. Thinking about getting a new 400SM like yours for me now at 66! Just not sure if i can handle it!
@Stephen Ambruzs Beautiful bike I stopped by Lynchburg Honda Suzuki the other day and couldn't bring myself to buying one. I'll be heading back this weekend to see if I ca test ride one.
I have a brand new 2018 DRZ400S with white & silver colors. Your video gave me some good ideas for my bike. I like the way you mixed up the red & blue anodized parts...nice bling. Definitely changing to the DRC tail light assembly and LED blinkers (front & back). First thing I will do is install the ThumperTalk case protectors. I have a different philosophy on performance. I intend to leave my bike's performance stock, i.e. not changing the carburetor, exhaust, or air box. I'm not planning on racing my bike, it already has plenty power and runs smooth. I especially like the quietness of the stock exhaust. I believe the engineers that developed the DRZ400 knew what they were doing. My new bike came tuned from the factory on a dyno with the correct mixture of air, fuel, and exhaust. Why do so many DRZ400 owners want to spend good money to mess with the engineer designed factory tuned performance?
Most of the bikes, quads etc. these days leave the factory with an air/fuel mixture on the leaner side, in some instances dangerously lean. The reason the manufacturers are doing this, is because they have to in order to obey current environmental emissions standards. To correct the lean condition, many people will just do a simple re-jet of the carb(s)... (or add fuel programmer for efi models). This will help the engine respond much better to throttle input, easier cold starts, increase reliability ect.. While others are looking to not only correct the factory lean condition, but also get a good boost in power in the process. Opening up the exhaust and/or air intake, on their own, will only worsen the lean air/fuel mixture, and no additional power will be achieved. However, when you increase air flow by adding a performance exhaust, and air intake modifications, in conjunction with adding fuel, and adjusting to optain the correct air/fuel mixture, the end result is an increase in power output. How much of an improvement in power these three mods together will get you, really depends on the engine, but it's usually a very noticeable difference. When it comes to the Drz400, these bikes are pretty choked up from the factory, especially the S and SM models, so doing these mods makes a big difference. There are some downsides to it of course. The increase in noise (depending on the individual and their situation). You can also expect to be doing more frequent oil changes with the air box opened up. As far as reliability goes, that should for the most part remain the same, assuming you keep up with maintenance. Keep your air filter and oil clean and change it often.
Good looking bike. I'm 250lbs so I'm going to have my suspension professionally tuned and sprung for me. You're lucky to be 150lbs. I eat most of the rear travel up just sitting on the bike lol. I feel like these bikes are kind of small but apparently they're quite tall in the bike world.
Been trying to find a set of dirt wheels for my sm for a while, always thought the ones you see plastered all over eBay were junk but if they are worth it I might have to
Great bike there I too have a 2017 drz400sm picked it up brand new. Being my first bike I still get jittery when rolling the throttle on lol I have done the same mods believe it or not wow I just haven't done the yoshi exhaust and 3x3 jet yet... Happy days! Stat safe !
FYI- The Yoshimura heat shield on your exhaust may be upside down. It’s either that or the cut-out-letters that forms the word “Yoshimura” in Japanese is upside down. (Which is how it is currently)
You say it's heavily modded but most things seem cosmetic. I was expecting you to have change the suspension or done some mods with the engine. Great looking bike btw.
Great choice! You did a good job with your SM. I have an '06 SM and I plan to get a second set of wheels like you did and do some dual sporting! Cheers!
Love your bike. Hey I just picked up a 2006 Suzuki drz 400 by yesterday. Tires are stock, so I want to change the tires ASAP... can you write back to me with what brand tires name & size on rear & front tires. Thanks kevo
Wao buddy, nice job with that bike. Beautiful. Little question. When you bought the rims, you bought the rims of a DRZ400S ? or the rims of a DR650s ? Greetings from Colombia.
I'm on my 2nd drz.you really should get the frc carb and E cams.It make them alot more fun.The bike will wheelie off the throttle and the cams make more top end power .Looks like a nice bike
Your front brake cables are fitted wrongly for enduro. They need to go around the inside of the fork, as if you brush up against a tree, stub or branch etc it will cut the cable. Right now you can see it is on the outside of the fork.
I totally agree. SM was not designed for off road riding...its a super moto (street racer). A super moto has vastly different shock specifications than an enduro (dual sport). Why would the engineers at Suzuki design a super moto with off-road shocks? I would think at the very least, the SM has softer springs designed for street riding. For this reason, if an off road bike is what he wants, then it would be better to just buy the S model to begin with...and cheaper. I love my S model...shocks are outstanding.
Steve! Mate you need to get more content of this sweet bike up. It's just the right amount of perfect. Hope I can get mine that clean! Get those gopro's going mate!
Looks Great, But you are missing Two things. An FCR39 Carb, and MUD splatter.👍👍 haha. Seriously tho, Very well modded. I have a 2017 SM as well. I still have the 17 in SM rims with some shinko 244 knobs. They do pretty darn good. One Thing I suggest. Definitely get Some USD Fork Skins. I have 2k Miles on mine and both have leaked already. Had to clean the fork seal a few times already.
All that work and you left the kick stand switch on there?? Did you flip the Yosh heat shield yet? Nice bike! Gotta gotta do the FCR..makes a huge difference. Nice bike!! I love mine!! Rode my buddies Husky TE 310. I was not looking forward to riding it then hating my DRZ and i didn't! Made me appreciate the Suzuki even more!
Hi...new to the channel. I have the same set up (17 back and 21 front). But when I install the front wheel, I just notice that my speedometers is not working. I don’t know what’s the problem, I took it out and made sure it’s seated correctly...and it is....I think? Please share me your thoughts. I have to use the speed ap to get by. Please help me fix this issue. Thanks!!
Hi Stephen, is that really the stock SM rotor in the front? It looks tiny, but maybe that is because of the larger dirt wheel. Did you make any changes to the SM suspension? How does the bike feel on the trails?
Sweet build! I would love input from you guys in the difference between the SM and the S with two sets of Wheels and both jobs in mind. Will the SM suspension limit travel off road or would road tires on a S suck on Road? Are both ways possible and why would you do or not do or not do either?
Was it difficult to change wheels if i get OEM wheels for drz 400s and put them on my sm do you think Im going to have to change brake rotor or caliper thanks
Hell of a bike!! Cleanest and most tastefully done drz I've seen.
I was thinking the same. Mine is no way as pretty. Something horrible happened to it. It met me. A few brutal rides full throttle and they never look the same. LoL.
I love how people buy the S and turn it into an SM while others buy the SM and turn it into an S.
Yeah, the SM is a better bike in general. Bigger brakes etc. When guys turn their S into a SM, that makes less sense.
I bought an SM and it's staying an SM.
Well, S riders like the better brakes and stuff that come on the SM. and SM riders like the stiffer suspension on the S.
I have an SM, but I also have everything to turn it into an S. I enjoy different types of riding.
@@atypical_moto the suspension is amazing on the sm compared to the s. Im going to buy dirtbike wheels, chain and sprockets for the ultimate 2 in 1 bike.
@@blixxy1320 Gonna have to disagree. The stock S has factory RM250 suspension from 1998. The stock SM is from the 1999 model. They're both great. Only difference inverted forks make is that they're slightly more ridged due to greater cross sectional area at the triple clamp, and so you get ever so slightly better feedback. This is more important on road than off, and so you see it on the SM model. However, the S model has 1.1 inches extra travel, and so anyone off road biased should get the S model. The real kicker is that the smaller off road rotor cannot be used with the SM forks as the caliper mount is part of the lower fork tube casting while the S can be fitted with an adapter and run both the smaller S model rotor and the larger SM rotor. That fact along with the ability to lower the S forks in the triples and achieve the same rake angle as the SM means the S model is a bit more versatile overall.
I've had some very nice bikes over the years, some KTM's and Motocrossers but this DRZ is awesome. After getting out my 525EXC I've seen the light and am looking for a DRZ400 for the same reasons others love them....reliability, bullet proof and ease of ownership. No fuss, do it all rig. KTM, as nice as they are just cost too much in upkeep. I just want to have fun without the headaches.
probably my favorite DRZ400SM i have seen. great taste in aftermarket parts man !
Wow for the Honda from 1972. I had a Kawasaki 175 Enduro from around 71/72. Loved it. Thinking about getting a new 400SM like yours for me now at 66! Just not sure if i can handle it!
Uggghhhh, looks amazing! Im hoping to get a DRZ shortly, supermoto trim. But those knobbies bring out a lot of character in that bike.
Best looking drz in the internet though
Heyy Bro i
Talon Sei’s drz looks much better
Best DRZ i've seen. If you want to see the UGLIEST drz, here it is: th-cam.com/video/fPBjMx7BYIc/w-d-xo.html
@@steelmilkjug I had a look....I'm traumatised and in therapy. You could have included a trigger warning...lol
No cap
I just bought a 2017 DRZ400SM......you have a blueprint of what to do.....nice job dude.
+1
Can I have your SM wheels?
@Stephen Ambruzs Beautiful bike I stopped by Lynchburg Honda Suzuki the other day and couldn't bring myself to buying one. I'll be heading back this weekend to see if I ca test ride one.
That's one of the sweetest looking DRZ400 I've ever seen. Great job with the mods, very tastefully done.
Yoshimura logo on the exhaust is up-side-down. Just so you know...
I've watched this about 10 times, I'm inspired to build one. great job!
That DRZ is SHARP man👌
My friend, YOU ARE THE BOSS, really nice, so elegant, you Must to be a Suzuki's designer!!!
Great bike!
My first bike was a 1971 SL-100!
Best wheelie bike ever!
Truly lovely. I am going greenlaning in the Isle Of Man soon with my DRZ. Gonna get these wheels)))
It's f#@#ing beautiful, it's so clean w/ turn signals. and the header pipe is huge. Love it
A quick turn throttle and some new grips.
I have a brand new 2018 DRZ400S with white & silver colors. Your video gave me some good ideas for my bike. I like the way you mixed up the red & blue anodized parts...nice bling. Definitely changing to the DRC tail light assembly and LED blinkers (front & back). First thing I will do is install the ThumperTalk case protectors. I have a different philosophy on performance. I intend to leave my bike's performance stock, i.e. not changing the carburetor, exhaust, or air box. I'm not planning on racing my bike, it already has plenty power and runs smooth. I especially like the quietness of the stock exhaust. I believe the engineers that developed the DRZ400 knew what they were doing. My new bike came tuned from the factory on a dyno with the correct mixture of air, fuel, and exhaust. Why do so many DRZ400 owners want to spend good money to mess with the engineer designed factory tuned performance?
Most of the bikes, quads etc. these days leave the factory with an air/fuel mixture on the leaner side, in some instances dangerously lean. The reason the manufacturers are doing this, is because they have to in order to obey current environmental emissions standards.
To correct the lean condition, many people will just do a simple re-jet of the carb(s)... (or add fuel programmer for efi models). This will help the engine respond much better to throttle input, easier cold starts, increase reliability ect..
While others are looking to not only correct the factory lean condition, but also get a good boost in power in the process. Opening up the exhaust and/or air intake, on their own, will only worsen the lean air/fuel mixture, and no additional power will be achieved.
However, when you increase air flow by adding a performance exhaust, and air intake modifications, in conjunction with adding fuel, and adjusting to optain the correct air/fuel mixture, the end result is an increase in power output.
How much of an improvement in power these three mods together will get you, really depends on the engine, but it's usually a very noticeable difference.
When it comes to the Drz400, these bikes are pretty choked up from the factory, especially the S and SM models, so doing these mods makes a big difference.
There are some downsides to it of course. The increase in noise (depending on the individual and their situation). You can also expect to be doing more frequent oil changes with the air box opened up.
As far as reliability goes, that should for the most part remain the same, assuming you keep up with maintenance. Keep your air filter and oil clean and change it often.
@@markalan4026 Great info - thanks for your input - much appreciated 🤙
@@Edward-rg8mh Not a problem at all, you're welcome 👍🏻
Now that's a good looking DRZ! Nice work, like the SL appearance too. I do think your Yoshi heat shield is upside-down though!
Your heat shield is on upside down!
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Any way you could put a part list in the description? Nice bike just bought a 2018 SM leftover $1k off and starting the process of modding
i just got a new 2018 sm too
That’s such a deal now
Your bike looks great. I can’t imagine you’ll be keen to get it dirty. Why did you use the SM as a base rather than the E or S?
Looks like you did a beautiful job! Wow!
Good looking bike. I'm 250lbs so I'm going to have my suspension professionally tuned and sprung for me. You're lucky to be 150lbs. I eat most of the rear travel up just sitting on the bike lol. I feel like these bikes are kind of small but apparently they're quite tall in the bike world.
Looking over some DRZ reviews and of course I run into my neighbor Steve! Always one step ahead of me in the two wheeled world. Sweet bike!
That old chimney is incredible
Nice and rare to get a hearing of prices. Only cuz I'm an eccentric millionaire. Saw a bit of dust on that tire tho. Better get after it.
Defiantly the best DRZ I've seen to date
Very nice! I'd love to see it in action.
Beautiful bike! Can't wait to get some enduro wheels for my sm.
Been trying to find a set of dirt wheels for my sm for a while, always thought the ones you see plastered all over eBay were junk but if they are worth it I might have to
Beautifully and tastefully modded. To do this exact thing is a dream project of mine
Great bike there
I too have a 2017 drz400sm picked it up brand new. Being my first bike I still get jittery when rolling the throttle on lol
I have done the same mods believe it or not wow
I just haven't done the yoshi exhaust and 3x3 jet yet...
Happy days! Stat safe !
FYI- The Yoshimura heat shield on your exhaust may be upside down. It’s either that or the cut-out-letters that forms the word “Yoshimura” in Japanese is upside down. (Which is how it is currently)
You say it's heavily modded but most things seem cosmetic. I was expecting you to have change the suspension or done some mods with the engine. Great looking bike btw.
So pretty! How many Walmart runs do you make before a complete car wash and wax?
Is your front fender stock drz sm or aftermarket? Would love to have the link to it if it’s aftermarket. Thanks! Love the look!
Hellovi would like to know how much total cost of your bike cause I would love to do the samething thanks for your video I just love ❤️ your bike
hi Stephen
i know you have had the bike for a while does it handle well jumping over small mounds say 4 foot
Cheers
wow... really nice build!!!! gave me allot of great ideas!!! tks.
Your bike is so badass!
With that bigger front rim are you going to get a power brake when you bottom the suspension???
Great job very nice bike, you may want to install an alarm on it
i am also in the process of offroad conversion with my SM, recently got the S wheels but it didnt come with rotors D:
I've done mine. Use the SM rotors on the S front. It's a bigger and better than the S. They just bolt straight on. Fits perfectly.
Awesome looking bike
Great choice! You did a good job with your SM. I have an '06 SM and I plan to get a second set of wheels like you did and do some dual sporting! Cheers!
Great job on the bike. Looks great and I agree that the DRZ is very versatile, do it all bike. Cheers.
Love your bike. Hey I just picked up a 2006 Suzuki drz 400 by yesterday. Tires are stock, so I want to change the tires ASAP... can you write back to me with what brand tires name & size on rear & front tires. Thanks kevo
Wao buddy, nice job with that bike. Beautiful.
Little question. When you bought the rims, you bought the rims of a DRZ400S ? or the rims of a DR650s ? Greetings from Colombia.
I'm on my 2nd drz.you really should get the frc carb and E cams.It make them alot more fun.The bike will wheelie off the throttle and the cams make more top end power .Looks like a nice bike
Does it still look this good
Where did you get that front fender? I want to get one like that for my 400s
Your front brake cables are fitted wrongly for enduro. They need to go around the inside of the fork, as if you brush up against a tree, stub or branch etc it will cut the cable. Right now you can see it is on the outside of the fork.
Lol wrongly
That’s how sm hoses are.
Great video ! I wish you posted more video on the DRZ !
Web link to the company you mentioned that you bought a lot of accessories from please Stephen?
I would love to see more content on this man
Great bike! Do you know rims they are called from EBay?
Looks great! How did it work off road? How did this turn out? I am thinking of doing the same.
Sick setup bro.
Is the exhaust shield supposed to go on like that? The text is upside down
I like the seat and the little cargo box
wow!!!! you've got a masterpiece right there man! congrats looking guuuuud!!! wold love to see it in action!! Please.
Best one yet. Nice job
Start doing more videos with this bike your Chanal will grow awesome vid 👍
Damn that is one nice looking drz
Great work. It would have been nice hear that new exhaust.
So when are we gonna get a ride review brother??? I think a few of us are really itching for one.
Nice job!! To love to of heard it running.
Whats the reason for converting to the S why not just buy a drz400s is there any advantage to starting with a SM
I totally agree. SM was not designed for off road riding...its a super moto (street racer). A super moto has vastly different shock specifications than an enduro (dual sport). Why would the engineers at Suzuki design a super moto with off-road shocks? I would think at the very least, the SM has softer springs designed for street riding. For this reason, if an off road bike is what he wants, then it would be better to just buy the S model to begin with...and cheaper. I love my S model...shocks are outstanding.
Awesome looking bike! Great job.
We should ride sometime man! I live in amherst right beside Lynchburg, just bought a 2019 drzsm. Im converting mine too!
what make/model tire is that on your bike?
Steve! Mate you need to get more content of this sweet bike up. It's just the right amount of perfect. Hope I can get mine that clean! Get those gopro's going mate!
Can I run 15/44 sprocket combo on the SM?, for wheelies actually?, thanks......
Just beautiful......sick bike bro
How do you like the SUZUKI SEAT - any updates on the bike ?
It's not that comfortable but it works for me!
This bike needs an update video , looking at getting the SM and doing a setup like this
cool Can you change the bulbs light to a LED light
Does it run that much better with the pipe and jet kit
So much better
Looks Great, But you are missing Two things. An FCR39 Carb, and MUD splatter.👍👍 haha. Seriously tho, Very well modded. I have a 2017 SM as well. I still have the 17 in SM rims with some shinko 244 knobs. They do pretty darn good. One Thing I suggest. Definitely get Some USD Fork Skins. I have 2k Miles on mine and both have leaked already. Had to clean the fork seal a few times already.
Gladius Jon thanks! I enjoy your channel and your videos are one of the reasons I purchased the bike. I appreciate the feedback and suggestions
Wow, small world man! Thanks!! Do you have any Trail footage on YT yet?
Gladius Jon I know right?! nope, still need to get my go pro mounts fitted.
Stephen Ambruzs
Live real close to Lynchburg thinking about adding a drz to the stable myself
Let me know if you are interested in buying this one. I'm ready to sell. Still has under 1k miles
Stephen Ambruzs what are you asking for it
@@jeremylong6229 $6k with all the add on and extra wheels
Very nice bike! Why didn't you just go with the S (less expensive than the SM)?
2017 and still using carbs, come on Suzuki get with the times. Styling is getting better and up to date
I hope they never change it. These bikes are emission grandfathered. If they change it, they'll have to put a bunch of modern emissions junk on them.
Man, that’s a ducking nice bike
All that work and you left the kick stand switch on there??
Did you flip the Yosh heat shield yet? Nice bike! Gotta gotta do the FCR..makes a huge difference.
Nice bike!! I love mine!! Rode my buddies Husky TE 310. I was not looking forward to riding it then hating my DRZ and i didn't! Made me appreciate the Suzuki even more!
Hi...new to the channel. I have the same set up (17 back and 21 front). But when I install the front wheel, I just notice that my speedometers is not working. I don’t know what’s the problem, I took it out and made sure it’s seated correctly...and it is....I think? Please share me your thoughts. I have to use the speed ap to get by. Please help me fix this issue. Thanks!!
Any advantage in doing this from a SM instead of an S?
Hi Stephen, is that really the stock SM rotor in the front? It looks tiny, but maybe that is because of the larger dirt wheel. Did you make any changes to the SM suspension? How does the bike feel on the trails?
Sweet build! I would love input from you guys in the difference between the SM and the S with two sets of Wheels and both jobs in mind. Will the SM suspension limit travel off road or would road tires on a S suck on Road? Are both ways possible and why would you do or not do or not do either?
The SM has bigger brakes and is more rigid. If you plan to ride on the road, go SM.
Wow that is nice! I've got a kdx 200 street legal but man I want a drz!!
WOW! teenager in 1972? How old are you now? Maybe I am not to old! NICE BIKE!
That’s a really nice, clean, tasteful mod series. What kind of stand is that holding the bike? I am looking for something myself.
Thats a mean looking machine.
Hi,very good video can you do a full list of link of your mod on this drz? thanks.
Was it difficult to change wheels if i get OEM wheels for drz 400s and put them on my sm do you think Im going to have to change brake rotor or caliper thanks
With the 21 inch front wheels is the seat height the same asa drz400s?
Do you have any links to where you got the taillight kit and rear rack? Looks great.
can you make a list of where you got the items and what items you got?
Great looking bike.