a friend of mine has one (DRZ400SM). The only think I can tell you is the bike is VERY fast around curves. Myself and other sportbikes can't touch it around curves. The bad thing about it is that its has a VERY uncomfortable seat. Its going to be much more painful to ride than your zixxer if you keep a narrow seat. I used to have a Suzuki DR650 Dual Sport with a bit wider seat and even with that bike if I went on a ride that was more than a couple hours my A$$ would be killing me! To the point that I could not even sit down after a really long ride. It would litterly hurt! My suggestion to you is to not skimp on the seat. Make sure it is comfortable and it will be a great ride.[thumbup] Oh BTW for shorter rides around town there a blast to ride!