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Old 28 May 2009
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DRZ 400S how tall is it really? How low can it go?

Hi guys!

The info on bike sites is very inconsistant.
Here is my question: how tall is really the DRZ400 (the one with 21'' wheel)?

How low can it realistically be lowered?

My requirements (as I am only 1.63m - 5'4'') is below 80cm seat (not sure in inches, maybe 31?)

Does any shorty rides a DRZ400 ? And I don't mean just putting the tip of the toe down. Ok in tarmac or without luggage, but for my next big trip I've learned my lesson the very hard way (in south america)! I want to be able to reach the ground both sides comfortably (ball of the foot). It is useful on tough roads with a fullly loaded bike!
Let me know your experience.

Thanks!

PS: I know all the lowering tips: scoop the seat, fit lowering kit, slide the front forks, replace the dog bone link, maybe even cut the rear shock spring can be done... how low woudl taht go? The MCNEWS website says that the bike is 93.5cm. I would need to lower by 14cm... over 5 inches!
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Old 29 May 2009
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It is over 90cm, I have an inside leg of 30" and could only just touch the floor. The seat is also very narrow, not good for long distance.

Be careful lowering any bike more than 2", especially the rear. If you change the dog bones you increase the leverage on the shock which makes it alot easier to bottom out the suspension. You will also lose alot of travel.

Why not get a new Serow, I have seen imports of the latest model which is fuel injected.
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Old 3 Jun 2009
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Maria...

I've just bought a DRZ400S off ebay. I "should" be collecting it on Sunday if all goes to plan.

It has lowering links fitted to it which I will leave on if you want to have a go.

I will bring it to Ripley so you can try it out if you want !
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Old 3 Jun 2009
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RAP Superbikes have one in, pop in and try it for size. As they do have an absurdly narrow perch it is easier to get the feet down - i tried a Husqvarna 610 for size recently (At Carl Rosner) and it wasn't any taller seat-wise even though the figures suggested i'd need a ladder .
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Old 3 Jun 2009
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I measured seat of my 400S and it is 94 cm (with MT21 tires). I think there is no way to lower it 15-20 cm or at least that is not practical.
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Old 3 Jun 2009
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tedmagnum View Post
Maria...

I've just bought a DRZ400S off ebay. I "should" be collecting it on Sunday if all goes to plan.

It has lowering links fitted to it which I will leave on if you want to have a go.

I will bring it to Ripley so you can try it out if you want !

Thanks Ted. If you can keep the lowering link until the HUBB I will be glad to try .
It is a narrow seat so I may not need to lower that much.

I had your pm about bbq. no prob.
Look forward to see you at ripley.

By the way, Ushi will be coming. And she met Chuck at the german hu meeting!
Can't wait!!!!
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