Can you green lane a Suzuki DR-Z400S?

Holloway ratings

Four separate scores, not one blended number, so you can see what's actually driving it.

Full specs

What we actually found

Owners revere the DR-Z400S as an analogue, bombproof benchmark for green laning. Riders consistently praise its carburetted 398cc single for instant low-rpm punch that lofts the front wheel over logs and rocks with ease. With 300mm of ground clearance and a 144kg weight, it tackles hard terrain effortlessly, though owners frequently mention that the close-ratio 5-speed gearbox buzzes heavily on sustained motorway links.

Pros for green laning

• Rugged, simple mechanics: carburetted 398cc engine is mechanically straightforward, field-repairable, and supported by a massive aftermarket.
• Exceptional 300mm ground clearance: 288mm front and 295mm rear suspension travel easily swallows massive boulders, tree roots, and deep ditch crossings.
• Sub-145kg wet weight: at 144kg kerb weight, it is lightweight, nimble, and easily recovered single-handedly from mud holes.
• Immediate low-end torque: 39Nm of torque provides instant, analogue throttle pull from idle for popping the front wheel over trail obstacles.

Cons and limitations

• Intimidating 935mm seat height: towering seat height makes touching the ground on off-camber trail stops difficult for anyone under 6ft.
• Buzzing 5-speed gearbox: short gearing makes 65-70mph motorway links feel strained and vibrate heavily through the footpegs and handlebars.
• Zero electronic aids: lacks ABS or traction control, requiring precise right-wrist and brake control in slick chalk or frozen mud.
• Cold-start carb finickiness: requires manual choke management on freezing winter mornings and can flood if dropped upside down on a hill.

Based on manufacturer specifications and independent motorcycle press reviews.