Please help this Dual Sport newbie - Suzuki DR350 vs DRZ400?

Question

I've searched the forums and interweb and found a lot of opinion on this topic, but nothing that has lead me to make a firm choice. I'm hoping someone can help me with this decision

I'm 5'11 and 250lbs

I've ridden both street and dirt, but not for the past 8yrs. This has lead me to think that a lighter, more nimble bike might be a good idea as I get back in to this. I'm also not looking to drop a lot of $$ as I may find myself upgrading in a year or so.

Looking for something to get me to the mts (30 miles, non highway) and then to cruise around fireroads and trails. Not looking to do any crazy jumps or technical riding.

Questions.

1. Will the DR350 have enough power given my weight? Am I going to look like a bear on a bicycle?

2. I hear soft shocks on the DR350 can be a problem, but I'm not going to be jumping. Would I still need to upgrade the shocks?

3. I've found a few bikes and if you have a moment would like your opinion.

a. 1996 Suzuki DR350 - $1695 ([url]htt

Answer 1

I reccomend the DRZ400, the 350 is more of a "Off Road" playbike than a serious "Dual Sport" machine. It sounds like you are an experienced rider, you will be much happier with the road versatility of the 400CC machine There is an old saying that is true here "There is NO replacement for displacement". I have friends who own both, I have ridden both and speak from direct experience. FWIW , I am 6'3, 280lbs. 50CC may not sound like much of a difference until your friend decides she wants to tag along on back for the day. The extra "Oomph" the 400cc has is noticeable given the Lb/HP equation.