Vehicle Segment:
Dual-sport motorcycle, known for versatility on-road and off-road.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a reliable, capable, and relatively simple dual-sport for trail riding, commuting, and light adventure touring.
Key Competitors:
Honda XR series, Kawasaki KLR series, Yamaha XT series of the era.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust single-cylinder engine, durable chassis, user-friendly maintenance, good off-road capability for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for owners to maintain, diagnose, and repair their 1997 Suzuki DR350, saving on dealership costs and empowering DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor), ignition system, exhaust system, starting system.
Transmission Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive (chain and sprockets) maintenance and replacement.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front fork (conventional or upside-down depending on SEV variant) overhaul and adjustment, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, swingarm lubrication and bearing service, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing maintenance.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake system inspection, hydraulic brake fluid replacement, caliper service, pad replacement, disc inspection.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system troubleshooting, ignition switch, battery maintenance, starter motor operation, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), fuse inspection.
Bodywork Frame:
Frame inspection, seat removal, fuel tank removal and installation, fender and fairing (if applicable) removal and reinstallation, general body panel maintenance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug inspection and replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake pad wear checks, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues, identifying root causes of performance problems.
Major Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, carburetor tuning and rebuilding, suspension component replacement, electrical system repairs.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values for critical fasteners, engine timing specifications, valve clearances, fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistances.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and electrical diagnostics and repairs.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve
Displacement:
348 cc (21.2 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 64.0 mm (3.23 in x 2.52 in)
Horsepower Rating:
Approximately 28-32 hp (at the crankshaft, model dependent)
Torque Rating:
Approximately 20-22 lb-ft (at the crankshaft, model dependent)
Carburetor Type:
Mikuni VM33SS (for DR350V), Mikuni BSR33 (for DR350SEV - electric start model)
Fuel Capacity:
3.6 US gal (13.5 L)
Oil Type Recommendation:
SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF motorcycle oil
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Length:
Approximately 87.4 in (2220 mm)
Width:
Approximately 33.7 in (855 mm)
Height:
Approximately 48.0 in (1220 mm) to seat, 50.6 in (1285 mm) to handlebars
Wheelbase:
Approximately 56.3 in (1430 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 282 lbs (128 kg) for DR350V, 291 lbs (132 kg) for DR350SEV
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (motorcycle specification, but typically around 400-450 lbs combined rider/cargo)
Front Suspension Travel:
6.7 in (170 mm) for DR350V, 10.2 in (260 mm) for DR350SEV
Rear Suspension Travel:
6.7 in (170 mm) for DR350V, 10.2 in (260 mm) for DR350SEV
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not rated by typical automotive safety organizations like NHTSA or IIHS)
Braking System:
Disc brakes front and rear. (SEV model often featured a larger front disc).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake lights, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame for durability.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-4,000 km (2,000-2,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Service:
Clean every 3,000-4,000 km (2,000-2,500 miles), replace as needed.
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust every 1,000-1,500 km (600-900 miles).
Spark Plug Inspection:
Inspect every 6,000-8,000 km (4,000-5,000 miles).
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Every 12,000-16,000 km (7,500-10,000 miles).
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.9 L (2.0 US qt) with filter change, 1.7 L (1.8 US qt) without filter change.
Fork Oil Capacity:
Approximately 465-475 ml per fork leg (check manual for precise amount).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, front fork seals, carburetor jets (clogging), valve stem seals, wheel bearings.
Potential Electrical Faults:
Regulator/rectifier failure (heat related), stator output degradation, intermittent headlight connections.
Engine Performance Quirks:
Carburetor tuning can be sensitive to altitude and modifications. Kick-starter engagement can sometimes be sticky.
Manufacturer History:
Suzuki Motor Corporation, a Japanese multinational corporation known for its wide range of products, including motorcycles, automobiles, and marine engines.
Dr Series Lineage:
The DR350 was part of Suzuki's long-running line of dual-sport motorcycles, evolving from earlier DR models and preceding later advancements in the dual-sport category.
Production Years:
The DR350 model range was produced from 1990 to 1999.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Dr350V Vs Dr350Sev:
DR350V typically refers to the kick-start only model, while DR350SEV denotes the electric-start model, often with slightly different suspension and styling cues.
Industry Awards:
N/A (The DR350 was a workhorse dual-sport; specific awards are uncommon for this class of motorcycle from this era, but it was highly regarded for its reliability and capability).
User Satisfaction Ratings:
Consistently rated highly by owners for its durability, ease of maintenance, and off-road prowess, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious dual-sport riders and adventure seekers.
