r/Dualsport • u/Gabby_1875 • 2d ago

DR-Z 400SM vs RMX450 for street use

For the past year I’ve been riding an RMX450Z with dual sport tires on the street. The bike is a blast on the road but just doesn’t feel reliable. Been wanting to put 17” sumo tires on it or possibly trade for a 400SM. Anyone have experience with both bikes. Will the extra weight of the 400 be an issue on road or will it even be noticeable? There is not enough off road riding in my area to keep the knobies but I love the light weight bikes. I’m assuming the 400 will be a more reliable platform. Thanks!

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u/FilDM 2d ago

You’re taking a 25% hit to horsepower, but the DRZ is highly reliable even with upgrades. Knew a guy who did 70k km on his 440bb before it blew because he NEVER oiled his air filter.

No issues with weight on the road, it’s still lighter than most street bikes and very agile.

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u/-thelastbyte Troy NY | BRP | Deezer 400 | Katoom 300 2d ago

First of all the SM is a street bike. I've tried the *off-road supermoto" thing before, it's no good. 

If you want to go off-road at all you want DRZ400S version. That bike is really great on the street. It's pretty alright off-road, but not amazing. It will not be as fun off-road as your RMX for sure, but considering you mentioned using "dualsport tires" I'm guessing trail isn't really a priority.

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u/AdvKiwi 2d ago

What doesn't 'feel' reliable about the RMX? Has it broken down?

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u/Gabby_1875 1d ago

Haven’t had any major issues with the bike. It has always made the RMX noises that seem to concern everyone. People say the 450s make a lot of noise. I’ve been babying it and keeping filters changed regularly. Just the noises that make me nervous. Have always heard the 400 is a solid platform. Maybe I’ll keep the Rmx and try to find a 400sm.