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New here! 2001 DragStar 400 (maybe)

2K views 10 replies 5 participants last post by  chedobean  
#1 ·
Hey all! I'm getting ready to buy my first bike tomorrow. I sleep on all major purchases and go back the next day. If it's meant to be, I go home with it. If it isn't, then I keep searching. Anywho... What I'm (probably) going to ride home tomorrow is a 2001 Yamaha DragStar 400. 400? DragStar? Yes. I'm in Japan and so, I don't get cool American bikes without a serious price tag, but I digress...

I'm 6'4" tall and I'm already looking at an upgrade. The floorboards. I was expecting this on any bike I bought, so it's more or less part of what I'm expecting to spend as my startup cost. Does anyone have suggestions on extensions? It looks like a pretty simple bracket based on the brief inspection I did at the dealer selling it.

Anyways, I'm really looking forward to exploring the forums for all the cool pictures, awesome websites that will suck my pockets dry (I'm saving on gas anyways so am I really loosing any money?) and learning as much as I can about my new Star.
 
#2 ·
Welcome to the forum pterrell.
Being in Japan you should have access to several bike shops so you can shop around for your best prices.
Since you're 6'4", forward controls sounds like a smart upgrade.
Personally I'd ask for any maintenance records on your 400 so you know what you're getting. I'd you're mechanically inclined, many upgrades you can perform yourself. Buy a good repair manual and search the Internet for possible problem areas, etc. Just my 2 cents worth.
Don't forget to share some pics with us after you bring it home, and ride safely!


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#3 ·
Much appreciated! Anything that you would suggest looking into as far as upgrades? Japan has a pretty strict maintenance inspection that occurs every two years. Basically, a mechanic has to go through with a fine tooth comb and certify it. It's coming from the dealer with a fresh inspection so I shouldn't need to worry about any major issues. Any preferred maintenance manuals that people use? I'm familiar with Haynes and Chilton manuals for cars, but I have no experience with motorcycles. I certainly have no fear of working on them though.
 
#4 ·
Welcome pterrell, I'm new to this sight too. wow 6'4", you're going to need some serious legroom. Bummer you can only get a 400. I'm only 5'9" and put Yamaha foot control relocation kit [2.5" forward of stock] on my bolt because I found it cramped for my stiff old joints.
Are you a Japanese resident or just living there at present?
 
#5 ·
Just living here temporarily. I'm not exactly restricted to a 400, but 400cc is the equivalent of 650cc in the US in terms of popularity. There are more options for a lower price in the 400cc range than if I were to look at the 750+ range. When I go back to the US, I'll likely get something that is at least twice as big haha.

If you don't mind me asking, what kit did you use? I'm not familiar with the Yamaha motorcycle aftermarket yet so I don't know what is good and what is junk.
 
#6 ·
I bought clymer manuals for my 950 tourer and 96' Virago. Haynes and Chilton are good as well.
A lot of common upgrades are exhaust and air intake kits. Depending on how strict your area is on noise levels will determine what exhaust upgrades are available. Your bike should be carbed so I'd ask to make sure they're synchronized.


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#7 ·
Yes it's carbureted. Haynes and Chilton make motorcycle manuals? I guess that doesn't surprise me but I didn't even really think to look. I figured they would only cover cars. As far as exhaust, I'm not sure I can change it from stock. If I do, I'd need to keep the OEM parts to re-install when I get it inspected.
 
#8 ·
availability

i always wondered is the 650 not available in asia, i'v head the 400 is also sold in australia, i wish i could ride a 400 to compare it to 650 i'll bet it's pretty close to the 650 with just a little less top end
 
#9 ·
Hello pterrell. Hope you find some good solutions for your ergonomic adjustments. If you like the bike, I know that Yamaha has a plethora of aftermarket parts. I'm sure you would be able to find bolt on extentions.

Hope it all works out. Yamaha makes good bikes.