Okay, so, I got this 07 DRZ 400 a while back. Thing is, it’s a solid bike, don’t get me wrong, but it just didn’t have that “oomph,” you know?
So, I started digging around. What can I do to give this thing a bit more pep in its step? Turns out, there are a few things that just about everyone does to these bikes. First off, the “3×3 mod”.
Basically, you take the airbox and open up the inlet. The idea is to get it to be 3 inches by 3 inches. More air flow, right? Makes sense. Did that.
- Cut that sucker open
- Checked online for tips
- Noticed a bit of a difference, for sure
Then, the jets. From what I gather, you gotta mess with the jets to really get the most out of opening up that airbox. So, I got a jet kit, watched a couple of videos, and got to work.
Felt like a real mechanic, you know, taking the carb apart, swapping out those tiny little jets.
- Got the jet kit
- Watched videos (a lot of videos)
- Took the carb apart (carefully!)
- Replaced the jets
- Put it all back together (praying I didn’t mess anything up)
Honestly, the jetting was a bit of a pain, but it was worth it. Bike definitely felt more responsive after that.
Next up, the exhaust. I mean, the stock pipe is okay, but come on, we can do better than “okay,” right?
Did a bunch of reading on forums, and it seemed like there are a lot of options out there. Ended up going with a full system.
- Researched exhaust options (lots of opinions out there)
- Decided on a full system
- Ordered it
- Installed it (with some help from a buddy)
Man, let me tell you, that exhaust made a huge difference. Not just in sound, which is awesome, by the way, but in power. The bike just pulls harder now, especially in the mid-range.
Some folks also talk about messing with the gearing. I haven’t done that yet, but I might.
From what I understand, you can change the sprockets to get a bit more top-end speed, or more low-end grunt, depending on what you’re after.
There’s even this thing about using thinner gaskets from the E model to bump up the compression ratio. Sounds a bit more involved, but hey, might be something to try down the line.
Another thing I saw mentioned a lot was the suspension. Apparently, getting the suspension dialed in for your weight and how you ride is a big deal. I haven’t messed with that yet, but it’s on the list.
And then there’s stuff like handlebars and the seat. Making the bike more comfortable for you, you know? Again, haven’t done it yet, but it’s something to consider.
All in all, these mods really woke up the DRZ.
It’s not a fire-breathing monster now or anything, but it’s definitely more fun to ride.
It can handle hills better, overtake slowpokes easier, and just feels more alive.
If you got a DRZ 400, and you’re thinking about doing some mods, I’d say go for it. Just do your research, take your time, and you’ll be good.