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March 2020 Calendar Winner - Daniel F - NZ
2001 Suzuki DR-Z400E
MARCH 2020 Calendar Winner - Daniel F - NZ
What does the vehicle mean to you?
It means freedom to me. To be able to strap on some camping gear and hit the lesser travelled roads and to be able to go just about anywhere I dare to take it, providing my skill level is up to the challenge!
Where is your favourite place to ride your motorbike?
To the middle of nowhere! At the moment it's exploring the tracks and trails in the various forest parks we have, although touring the South Island is always a buzz too.
Engine: 398cc DOHC Thumper
Engine Mods: Internals are untouched. Although external mods like airbox, jetting and an FMF Header have been done.
Wheels/tyres: Two sets of 21",18" rims. One set as a daily running, road and gravel use, D605/D605. The other set for more offroad or gnarlier type trips. Currently a MT21/D606 F/R combo.
HP/kW Power Rating: Standard figures For the 400 are around the 39hp mark. Given that it's the 'E' model comes standard with FCR carb, higher compression and better cams and with the external mods maybe a wee bit more.
What would you like to do next on your vehicle?
As I have pretty much done everything I've needed to mod for adventure riding there is not a lot left to do. I am slowly swapping out the yellow/white plastics for black to give it a tidier look. I suppose a 440cc piston kit would be nice too though!
What do you like best about your vehicle?
It's reliability. Being able to thrash it, bash it and crash it and still be able to depend on it to start right upkeep on trucking and is always a good thing.
Anything else you would like to add?
Since owning her, she has taken me to some pretty cool places and had some great experiences, and I'm sure there will be plenty more to come. So I say to anyone who wants to explore the country, a DR-Z or in fact any motorbike is a great way to do it, and you meet some great people along the way.
What is your favourite Supercheap Auto product to use on your vehicle?
I'm a fan of the Penrite MC-4 PAO / Ester Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil, great product. Particularly the 15w50 for this motorbike.
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