Thats funny about the 400s. I don't believe the XTZ660 comes to the states. Which is unfortunate. I think it makes it hard for world travellers that might want to bring their bikes to the US. The bike seems pretty popular, but are virtually non existant in the states. Since bikes aren't imported, parts are rare if available at all. Plenty of quads come that use that engine, I believe. Isn't the Raptor 660 the same engine?

The other point I didn't make is ability to carry gear. Some bikes are better suited to having panniers and such attached. If your not travelling with a crew you need to bring your own stuff. Bikes like the 400 s and xtz (I assume) are built with stronger frames to with stand long range use. The YZ for example has every component desined to be light as possible. The designers didn't think about having a bunch of extra weight on the rear sub frame. Thats one thing the OZ test lacked IMO . As a race bike they proved its worth. But, they had a support crew.And if your headed all the way to belize, your going to need some of your own gear.

The DRZ comes with several key differences. I believe it actually has stiffer springs than the e/kick to compensate for the extra street gear. BUt, since its soft to begin with and you add gear and only add a one step stiffer spring, its still soft. People usually do add stiffer springs.

The other is the s model uses a taller base gasket than the E/kick giving the S model a lower compression ratio. This is so people could use 87 octane at the pump. So that makes it great for using lower grade gas ie. Mexico and south. PLus, the lower compression allows the engine to not be under as much strain. Lower compression engines tends to last longer, save maybe diesels . The down side to lower compression is less power. BUt, the engine makes plenty with stock compression. Also, theoretically, less compression is less efficient than higher compression. BUt, the difference in actual mileage is probably imperceptable. Also, at very high elevation the difference may be noticeable.

The S also uses a smaller CV carb instead of the FCR carb. It is slower, but the vaccuum operated slide gives it some self adjusting capabilites through altitude changes. A very nice ability for a long range traveller.

The cush drive I mentioned before. It flat reduces fatigue from rider and bike.

Also, since the S is already street legal. You'll need to be street legal of course. Theres no need to have to convert and re title. You Documentation is as simple as it can be.
Being only a 400 its better on gas than bigger bikes. Fuel economy is huge consideration when your trying to strecth to a fuel stop. You don't want to worry especially with a thirsty 600 cc plus beast drinking gas. And it still has plenty of power for a reasonably skilled rider. Since the goal is only really to get there, a lot of power isn't always needed. Yeah if you like wheeling and jumping and roosting every where, it could be under powered especially loaded.

Well I'll put down my Suzuki Horn now. In some circles Suzukis aren't considered highly, I know. BUt, Every manufacturer gets one right now and again. This is one of Suzukis very right bikes.


Thanks,
TOdd BEllew


[This message has been edited by Todd Bellew (edited 25 June 2003).]

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Thank You,
Todd Bellew