VOLUME 56 ISSUE 37 SEPTEMBER 17, 2019 P103
500 EXC, and we took off for
the hills but not before making a
couple much needed, but minor,
modifications to the Suzuki. We
swapped out the way-too-street-
focused stock tires for some-
thing with a lot more knob, but
had to remain street-legal. We
went with Dunlop's trusty DOT-
stamped D606s. Even though
this tire is somewhat heavy
in design, we still like it for its
excellent all-around performance
both on the street and dirt and
its exceptional longevity. We also
removed the silly rubber pads
that are bolted onto the DR's
footpegs to help mask vibration.
(Above) It's hard to believe how two similar looking motorcycles
can perform so differently, yet still provide an equal amount of
fun. (Left) This hill is steeper than it looks and both bikes got the
job done, albeit easier on the KTM. (Below) The DR-Z400S still
performs like a champ on the pavement.