DR350 & XT350

[David Schneider]

I have found a lot of useful information from previous posts comparing these
two models. Thanks. I have seen several comments saying that the DR350
suspension is "much better". What makes it better?
- stiffer?
- doesn't bottom out?
- longer throw?

Also what is the factory spec on the weight of the DR350? Since this is a
discontinued model, I can't easily find this out. Is it heavier than the
XT350?

Thanks,
Dave

[CYCLEANS]

I sell motorcycles for a living.I own
a Dr 350S model .I've ridden both machines. The Dr has suspension on both ends
that offers more adjustability, it has alot of aftermarket support where as the
Xt offers very little. Stocker for stocker the Xt makes a bit more power on top
and a bit more comfort due to the wider and softer seat. The Dr offers rear
disc brakes and electric start. The Xt offers a bit more range due to slightly
better fuel economy and a bit larger tank.I'd rate the XT 70% street and 30%
dirt. The Dr 50% street and 50% dirt.. As far as weight I believe the Dr comes
in around 286 lbs, the Xt a little less but the Dr feels lighter.....The dual
carb setup on the XT seems to work Ok but it's far more complex then it needs
to be. Where as the Dr offers simplicity and aftermarket carbs as well. Both
bikes are really lean from the factory so either choice will need some
rejetting.Reliability is excellent on both machines so is resale. It's quite
easy to add 5-6hp on the Dr without compromising reliability where as the XT
would be alot more difficult due to the dual carb setup.I hope this helps you
out.

[David Schneider]

Yes, that helps a lot. Based on all the other tidbits I've been picking
up, your review is kind of what I expected. But, it's still nice to get
your impressions. Now the trick is finding one close to home (MPLS/ST
PAUL).

Thanks!

[fra...@sonic.net]

David Schneider <david.s...@unisys.com> wrote:
} I have found a lot of useful information from previous posts comparing these
} two models. Thanks. I have seen several comments saying that the DR350
} suspension is "much better". What makes it better?
} - stiffer?
} - doesn't bottom out?
} - longer throw?

All of the above. The XT has only 8.5" travel in back, but 10" in front
is ok. Way mushy. The DR350S is mushy too, but not as much and has
more rear travel. You can crank up the XT rear preload and raise the
fork oil level, then it won't bottom out.

} Also what is the factory spec on the weight of the DR350? Since this is a
} discontinued model, I can't easily find this out. Is it heavier than the
} XT350?

The DR350S (kick start) was advertized as the same weight as the XT350,
the DR350ES (electric start) was 20 pounds heavier. The advertized
wights are BS, I think they measured them with no oil, no fork oil, no
battery, and no tires.

Frank Ball fra...@sonic.net