Market Position:
The Suzuki DR350 series was a popular choice in the late 80s and early 90s for riders seeking a versatile dual-sport motorcycle capable of handling both on-road commuting and off-road adventures. It occupied a niche between lighter trail bikes and larger adventure touring machines.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with models like the Honda XR series, Kawasaki KLR series, and Yamaha XT series, offering a balance of performance, reliability, and affordability.
Key Features:
Robust air-cooled engine, capable suspension for varied terrain, reliable performance, and relatively simple mechanicals, making it a favored platform for customization and long-term ownership.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, valves, timing, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled design).
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable).
Ignition System:
CDI ignition, spark plug, ignition coils, stator.
Transmission:
5-speed gearbox, clutch system, gear shifting mechanism, transmission lubrication.
Drivetrain:
Chain drive, sprockets, rear swingarm, bearings.
Suspension Front:
Telescopic front forks, internal components, seals, oil types, damping adjustments.
Suspension Rear:
Monoshock rear suspension (SU-STRS system), shock absorber, linkage, rear spring preload adjustment.
Braking System Front:
Hydraulic disc brake, caliper, master cylinder, brake fluid, pad replacement, rotor specifications.
Braking System Rear:
Hydraulic disc brake, caliper, master cylinder, brake fluid, pad replacement, rotor specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator/stator), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, starter motor (if electric start equipped).
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, handlebars.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug checks, valve clearance adjustments, brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common problems, electrical issues, starting problems, running issues, suspension issues, brake issues.
Engine Repair:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and tuning procedures.
Carburetor Service:
Carburetor cleaning, jetting, adjustments, and overhaul.
Suspension Rebuild:
Front fork seal replacement, rear shock absorber service, linkage maintenance.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper servicing, bleeding procedures, master cylinder overhaul.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness tracing, component testing, multimeter usage, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Tire replacement, wheel balancing, spoke tensioning.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 60.2 mm
Valve Clearance Intake Cold:
0.04 - 0.08 mm (0.0016 - 0.0031 in)
Valve Clearance Exhaust Cold:
0.07 - 0.11 mm (0.0028 - 0.0043 in)
Lubrication System:
Wet sump
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 28-30 hp @ 7,000 rpm (varies by tuning and emissions)
Torque Est:
Approximately 23-25 lb-ft @ 6,000 rpm
Carburetor Model:
Mikuni VM33SS
Carburetor Jets:
Main Jet: #130, Pilot Jet: #17.5, Needle Jet: J-5, Jet Needle: 4th clip from top (typical, may vary).
Fuel Tank Capacity:
10.0 L (2.6 US gal) / 12.0 L (3.2 US gal) for SP with larger tank.
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
1st: 2.538 (33/13), 2nd: 1.857 (26/14), 3rd: 1.400 (21/15), 4th: 1.105 (21/19), 5th: 0.913 (21/23).
Final Drive:
Chain drive, 520 pitch (e.g., 15T front, 46T rear is a common stock ratio).
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.3 L (1.4 US qt) with filter change, 1.1 L (1.2 US qt) without.
Transmission Oil Spec:
API SG, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle specific engine oil.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 mi) or 6 months.
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Every 1,500 km (900 mi) or 3 months (more frequently in dusty conditions).
Valve Clearance Check Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 mi) or 12 months.
Chain Adjustment Interval:
Check and adjust chain slack every 1,000 km (600 mi) or as needed.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG, JASO MA, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Fork Oil Type:
Suzuki Fork Oil SS-04 (or equivalent 10W viscosity fork oil)
Fork Oil Quantity:
Approx. 363 ml (12.3 US oz) per fork leg (check manual for exact amount)
Known Issues:
Carburetor clogging due to fuel instability, potential wear in the swingarm and steering head bearings, occasional ignition coil failure, weak clutch springs on high-mileage units.