2025 KTM 390 Enduro R vs 2025 Suzuki DRZ4s

With both KTM and Suzuki releasing new 400-ish cc dual sports this year, the most obvious question (and the one I’ve been asked A LOT) is when you compare Suzuki DRZ4s vs KTM 390 Enduro R how do they compare and which one is better?

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I’ve now ridden both the new DRZ and KTM 390 quite a bit and while they may be similar on paper, they serve very different purposes. At least in my opinion…

The good news is they’re both pretty great in their own way, but the DRZ vs KTM 390 choice is pretty easy if you fall into any of these categories:

If you have a limited budget and want to stretch it as far as possible, get the KTM 390 enduro. The extra 3k is enough to buy a full suite of riding gear, camping gear, AND luggage all for less than the cost of the DRZ itself.
I made a video about a complete ADV setup for less than 10k. The 390 Enduro easily fits into that setup.
If you want MAXIMUM off road capability get the DRZ. The 390 enduro is capable enough for casual riding, but on anything technical or singletrack-y, I’d much rather be on the DRZ4s.
If you are going to spend over 50% of your time on the road, get the KTM. 6th gear and much higher top speed (90+ vs barely 81 on the DRZ for me) make it a lot easier to ride at highway speeds.
If you’re a newer rider, get the enduro r. The DR-Z4s is NOT beginner friendly. It’s too tall and too torquey and not very forgiving of mistakes. I whiskey throttled this one on my first ride and it was almost very bad for me.
If you’re a more experienced off road rider and off road riding is a priority for you, get the DRZ. The KTM is…anemic…off road. It’ll do it, but the DRZ is way more fun and has power where you need it. The KTM is heavy and sluggish.

WHICH TO CHOOSE?
Choose the Suzuki DR-Z4S if: You prioritize light weight, maximum suspension travel, ground clearance, and bulletproof reliability for serious off-road riding, and you are willing to pay a premium for those features and peace of mind.
Choose the KTM 390 Enduro R if: You prioritize value, modern performance, a 6-speed transmission, and a full suite of electronic rider aids for balanced 50/50 on- and off-road riding, and you appreciate the lower initial cost.

2025 KTM 390 Enduro R vs 2025 Suzuki DRZ4s Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:45 DRZ4s vs 390 Enduro Specs
02:38 What Does Each Bike Do Better on Paper?
03:21 Quad Lock Ad
04:28 The 390 Enduro R is Better at...
05:30 The DR-Z4s is Better at...
07:00 Which Dual Sport is Best For You?
09:35 Consider the KTM 390 Adventure R Instead
10:17 KTM 390 Enduro vs DRZ4s MY CHOICE
11:27 Outro

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Disclaimer for reasons: I am not a professional journalist, expert motorcycle rider, or a mechanic. These videos are for entertainment purposes and represent my personal opinions and experiences. I'm just a dude who isn't even good at riding or making videos, so be smart and don't risk life or limb trying to follow my example or advice.