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The tenacious and durable enduro Suzuki DRZ 400 is well known to those who like to ride off-road on two wheels. This motorcycle has been produced in different versions since 2000 , and many copies of this model travel on Russian roads. In Europe, the bike has not been officially sold for a long time, since it does not comply with strict environmental standards of the European Union, but used copies in Russia and the CIS countries in 99% of cases come directly from Japan. And in its class, DRZ can be called one of the best!

Design

Who said "design"? For harsh enduro, this concept does not exist; the emphasis is not on a pretty appearance, but on reliability, power and the ability to overcome mud in which an Abrams tank can easily get stuck. Japanese designers hired by Suzuki think so, otherwise there is no way to explain why the Suzuki DRZ 400 looks almost indistinguishable from other enduros. And the off-road version differs visually from the SM version (supermoto, that is, motard) only in the wheels. But such motorcycles are loved not for their design, but for what they are capable of.

The best pit bikes over 125cc

Pit bikes with powerful engines are often classified as professional, and to some extent this is true. This technique is really capable of handling more serious tracks, and in some cases even allows you to make jumps and somersaults. However, a powerful pit bike cannot always be called sporty. Essentially, it's just a heavier mini-motorcycle that can carry a couple of adults. But let us remember that a pit bike is not a means of transportation. This is sports equipment, and you can only ride it on specialized trails and tracks.

Technical characteristics of Suzuki DRZ 400

They depend on the modification of the motorcycle. The most powerful was the DR-Z400E, discontinued in 2005 and not intended for use on public roads. But all Suzuki DRZs have decent technical characteristics, and they will not let the owner get bored.

Engine

The single-cylinder liquid-cooled power unit produces 40 horsepower and 39 Nm of torque (48 hp and 41 Nm for the DR-Z400E). It has powerful traction in the upper rev range, and at the same time is capable of pulling out a bike stuck in the mud with one jerk. On the road, the motorcycle is capable of reaching a speed of 150 km/h , but maintaining high speeds for a long time is not recommended - the engine is not designed for this, its element is rough terrain.

Transmission

Japanese engineers decided not to reinvent the wheel, and equipped their brainchild with a classic 5-speed gearbox . The first three gears are very short - what you need for an off-road bike. You have to actively use your left foot, but thanks to this, the DR-Z acquires explosive acceleration dynamics at low speeds.

Chassis and brakes

Different versions of the motorcycle are equipped with the same steel frame , but there are other differences between the enduro and supermoto versions. The first received a classic 49mm Showa fork with a full range of adjustments, and the second received a 47mm first fork , also adjustable, also made by Showa. On a regular Suzuki DRZ, a long-stroke monoshock absorber with progression (a full range of adjustments) is installed at the rear, and on the DRZ400SM there is a similar one, but a little shorter stroke (276mm versus 295mm). Braking is handled by 250mm discs at the front and 220mm at the rear (on enduro; on motard – 300mm at the front and 240mm at the rear). The calipers are the same, 2-piston front and 1-piston rear .

Electronics

There is a minimum of it in this model. Any biker who is not afraid to get his hands dirty can figure out the electrical circuit of the Suzuki DRZ 400. Let us only note that the very first modification of the bike, DR-Z400, discontinued in 2005, was additionally equipped with a kickstarter.

Weight and dimensions

Despite the conventional steel frame instead of a light alloy one, the Japanese managed to create a motorcycle that was light by class standards. Dry weight for the DR-Z400S is only 132 kg , for the DR-Z400E - 119 kg , for the DR-Z400SM - 135 kg . The dimensions accordingly correspond to these parameters:

• 2310 x 875 x 1240 mm (DR-Z400S)
• 2225 x 855 x 1200 mm (DR-Z400E)
• 2310 x 825 x 1235 mm (DR-Z400SM)

Controllability

Due to its modest weight the Suzuki DRZ handles excellently , which is why it is loved by tens of thousands of bikers. Off-road, it feels like a fish in water, and an experienced motorcyclist will have no problems holding it even on slippery and uneven surfaces. But on the highway, the Suzuki DR Z lacks directional stability due to narrow wheels and vulnerability to side winds.

Fuel consumption

It very much depends on the driving style, operating conditions and technical condition of the particular vehicle. If you try to get something in between, then in the city the consumption is unlikely to exceed 4.5-5 liters , and on the highway this figure will drop to 3.5 liters if you maintain a speed around 120 km/h . On the off-road, it is impossible to predict the consumption, but it certainly will not be low. You need to monitor the fuel level, since the gas tank holds 10 liters , of which 2.3 liters are reserve.

Top 5. YCF START F125

Rating (2021): 4.18

• Characteristics

  Average price: 92,000 rub.

• Country: France
• Engine capacity: 125 cc
• Power (hp): 10
• Wheel size: 14×12 inches
• Launch: kickstarter
• Box: mechanics
• Weight (kg): 70

The French brand YCF is well known among professional athletes. His technique often participates in various competitions and is classified as premium. This fully explains the rather high cost, which discourages many. Now we have before us the company’s starting model, intended for beginners just mastering cross-country motorcycle racing. An interesting feature is the fact that when ordering equipment, you can choose the type of start and even the gearbox. By default, mechanics and kickstarter are installed, but everything is easily replaced and practically does not affect the final cost.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Replaceable modules
• Possibility to select a build
• Premium quality

• Rarely found in stores

Motorcycle price

Russian bikers do not often buy new motorcycles, preferring used ones supplied directly from Japan. Suzuki DRZ is not officially sold in Russia, so all copies come to us straight from the Land of the Rising Sun. The cost on the secondary market starts from 120-130 thousand for the oldest Suzuki DRZ, and can reach up to 400 thousand for fresh motorcycles in good technical condition. The Suzuki DRZ 400 SM is on average more expensive than its off-road counterparts in the model range.

Repair and tuning

Suzuki DRZ is reliable, and all tuning usually comes down to improving its already decent characteristics. There are plenty of offers on the Internet, but they will be of interest mainly to bikers who are well versed in the topic and know how exactly this or that part will be useful to them.

Repair

According to reviews, Suzuki DRZ rarely breaks down. It is distinguished by excellent durability, and even if it falls head over heels, it is unlikely that anything will fall off of it except the mirrors. Other breakdowns are most often caused by untimely maintenance, and they can be avoided if you take proper care of your two-wheeled friend.

Spare parts

Not everything is available, but this problem is familiar to all Russian bikers. You can find absolutely everything to order, from a clutch cable to an entire engine. Prices are comparable to those of 95% of other Japanese motorcycles.

Tuning

Often, owners of Suzuki DRZ equip the bike with protective cages, hand protection, install a lightweight exhaust system, or install other wheels . Sometimes the suspension also changes, but this pleasure is not cheap. There is enough tuning for this model, but the price of individual components can be exorbitant.

Flaws

All wiring of the motorcycle is made without protection; at best, it is simply pulled to the frame with clamps. It would be better if they were put into plastic corrugations.

Since the model is relatively new, users do not note any particular disadvantages. Sometimes a small tank is indicated, but the pit, like the cross, is not designed for long hauls.

and dignity

And there are many more advantages:

• more than reasonable price ;
• mud protection for rear shock absorber;
• the ability to customize the latter;
• stock subframe installed;
• Ease of Management;
• standard gearbox diagram.

Many people note that this is a bicycle, but you don’t need to turn the pedals, since it carries you itself.

Motorcycle modifications

Of the four versions that were produced, there are now two left - the enduro DRZ 400S and the motard DRZ 400 SM. The latter is distinguished by smaller radius wheels, different suspensions and stronger brakes - these differences are described above. But previously two more modifications were produced, the Suzuki DRZ 400 (with kickstarter and without PTS), removed from the production line in 2005, and the DRZ 400E, with an engine retuned for more power, but also not intended for public roads. It was discontinued in 2009.

Advantages and disadvantages

The Suzuki DRZ has enough advantages - the bike is perfectly balanced in all respects. Reliable, durable, hardy - whatever epithets they give it! But they are all rightfully deserved. Disadvantages are most often quite subjective.

Advantages

• Impressive acceleration dynamics and high top speed.
• Excellent long-travel suspension , excellent shock absorption. A full set of adjustments is included.
• Simple design . Any more or less experienced biker can repair or service the Suzuki DRZ on his own.
• Low cost of maintenance.

Flaws

• Weak traction at the bottom . To achieve good dynamics, the Suzuki DRZ engine must be “twisted”.
• A small gas tank coupled with high fuel consumption off-road.
• Due to the significant seat height, short riders may find it difficult to reach the ground with their feet.
• At high speeds, the Suzuki DRZ engine “eats up” oil . At the same time, due to the design features, oil starvation is deadly for it, so you need to monitor the oil level.

Top 2. YCF BIG-MINI 190-С

Rating (2021): 4.69

The best components All components used in the design are produced by the manufacturer itself. The quality is at the highest level, thanks to which the equipment is classified as a premium segment.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 180,000 rub.

• Country: France
• Engine capacity: 190 cc
• Power (hp): 20
• Wheel size: 17×14 inches
• Launch: kickstarter
• Transmission: automatic (gearbox)
• Weight (kg): 73

BIG-MINI is a transitional model line from the world-famous French manufacturer YCF. This is a professional sports equipment designed for the most severe loads. You can do somersaults on it without fear of the plastic breaking when falling. This particular model is equipped with a 190cc engine, but you can also take a simpler one with 150cc, or vice versa, a more powerful one with 250cc. A unique feature of the brand is its completely independent production. You won't find modules from third-party developers here. YCF is responsible for everything, and he knows a lot about quality. It’s not for nothing that its products are classified in the premium segment. These nuances fully justify the price tag of the model.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Only the brand's own production
• High quality parts and modules
• Premium segment
• There are models for 125, 150 and 250 cubic meters

• Very high price
• Difficult to find in regular stores

See also:

• 10 most economical motorcycles

Owner reviews

I rode the Suzuki DRZ for two full seasons, sold it with relief, and now I’ll tell you why. The motorcycle is truly universal, truly tenacious, but it is somehow too average, as if without a soul. And it’s just strange - you need to turn the engine to cheerfully drive, but you can only drive on the highway. But we seem to have enduro, don’t we? But there is no tractor traction on the lower parts. Tops are not so needed off-road, but we don’t have bottoms - only tops. As a result, you can powerfully push across the field, but making your way through the forest between the trees is stupidly boring, it’s not for that bike. Ivan, Krasnodar.

The best model from Suzuki!! I used to ride a Honda XR250, but, firstly, I wanted to increase the cubic capacity, and secondly, I decided to buy a motard. The choice ultimately fell on Suzuki, the 2011 DR Z 400 SM. I took it with a mileage of 15k km, it doesn’t seem to be twisted, at least this is indicated by indirect signs. After a season, I can confidently say that Suzuki engineers know their stuff and they’re on fire. It goes everywhere, any way you like, even on the ground, even on the road, steering is elementary. But the character is evil, constantly provokes, so I strictly do not recommend it to beginners - you can accidentally kill yourself due to inexperience. Rinat, Vologda.

I was choosing between the Suzuki DRZ and the Chinese enduro, I took the Japanese one and was not mistaken. The motor is old, but problem-free, it doesn’t break at all. The downside is that the seat is made of oak and the tank is small. The rest is a complete plus. Andrey, Lobnya.

The best pit bikes up to 125cc

For a pit bike, a volume of 125 cubic meters is the optimal solution. Such a motorcycle can easily transport a person weighing up to one hundred kilograms, and no difficulties will be noticed. The bike also handles off-road easily and is quite easy to control. There are also equipment with a smaller engine capacity, and here you should start from the assigned tasks. If a motorcycle is bought for “riding” on simple off-road terrain, and it will be driven by a teenager, then 50 cubic meters will be enough. In addition, it will be more difficult to get injured on such a bike, but restrictions come into force. For example, a motorcycle is unlikely to climb a steep mountain slope, and it is unlikely to get out of a swamp without outside help.

Conclusion

This motorcycle really justifies its price , and it doesn’t matter what modification we are talking about - the Suzuki DRZ400SM motard or the DRZ 400S enduro. Powerful and reliable , he can become a loyal friend for many years if you like his obstinate character.

Specifications

Top 2. BSE DX 125

Rating (2021): 4.61

The most popular model for an adult beginner. A small pit bike, whose layout allows people up to 170 centimeters in height to ride it. Equipment for adult riders with little experience.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 60,000 rub.

• Country: China
• Engine capacity: 125 cc
• Power (hp): 9
• Wheel size: 17×14 inches
• Launch: kickstarter
• Box: mechanics
• Weight (kg): 75

The brand is often called the best manufacturer of pit bikes for professional sports. The company focuses on sports use, as evidenced by the 4-stroke, 9-horsepower 125 cc engine and high-quality air suspension. Also, all models of this brand are equipped with wheels with reinforced rims, which allows them to make jumps and heavy landings. BSE engines are easy to maintain and are installed so that modules can be changed without completely removing the engine. This is a plus, but the lack of an electronic starter is a minus, especially if you stall in the middle of a race. In addition, you will have to frequently adjust the carburetor, and this also requires certain knowledge.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Reinforced rims on wheels
• Suitable for adult riders
• Focus on professional sports

• No electronic start
• Not the most reliable carburetor

See also:

• 10 Best Motorcycles for Beginners