Suzuki DRZ-400: specifications and reviews

One of the most reliable indicators of the success of a motorcycle is the number of its modifications and subsequent restyling. And the desire of producers to get the most from the popular development of the maximum possible in the market is justified. This is how it happened with the Suzuki DRZ-400 bike, the photo of which is presented below. The device was originally conceived as a representative of a segment of motorcycles with a dual purpose, but as the fans grew, the creators expanded the basic range of its technical and operational capabilities.

General information about motorcycle

Initially, in 1999, the model was conceived as a typical representative of the "enduro" class. As a platform, the DR-350 unit was taken, and a year later the development was released. Two years later the designers provided the bike with adjustable suspension, which finally formed the classic off-road appearance of the motorcycle. True, in the standard version, it is suitable for urban road driving, and for road trips, as well as for an active cross. In the period from 2005 to 2010, On the market there were several more versions of this device, but a fundamental departure from the classic model Suzuki DRZ-400 was made at the time of the carburetor engine failure. This is exactly what happened in 2010 amid tightening of environmental requirements for power units.

Specifications

The manufacturer changed the technical and operational qualities of the model in different versions. The version of a supermoto with a prefix S is still considered a traditional one. At the same time, almost all representatives of the Suzuki DRZ-400 series were equipped with a five-speed gearbox. The technical specifications of the basic bike are as follows:

• Type of drive - chain.
• The front brakes are discs with a size of 25 cm, supplemented by a two-piston caliper.
• Rear brake - disc, size 22 cm, with single-piston caliper.
• Suspension (front) - telescopic fork 4.9 cm.
• Rear suspension - pendulum.
• Frame material is steel.
• The height of the bike is 93.5 cm across the saddle.
• The wheelbase is 148.5 cm.
• The capacity of the tank with fuel is 10 liters.
• Weight - 133 kg.

Engine characteristics

The motorcycle is supplied with a single-cylinder four-cycle unit, the working volume of which is 398 cm ³ . The average volume engine provides about 40 liters. from. Power, which is good for the representative of the enduro segment. Even more attractive performance indicators appear Suzuki DRZ-400. Characteristics of the dynamics can be imagined as follows: acceleration to hundreds is carried out for 5.5 seconds, and the limiting speed level is fixed at 150 km / h. True, for a good traction and decent quality dynamics, the motorcyclist will have to pay an average fuel consumption of 5-6 liters per 100 km. However, depending on the nature of the operation of the bike, this value may decrease.

Modifications

To date, the DRZ-400 is available in three major versions: S, E and SM. As for the first modification, it can be considered as a basis. This is a light sport enduro version, which has in the equipment turn signals, an electric starter, a cooling fan and optics in an expanded configuration. Version E also represents the enduro class, but in a slightly heavier version. In particular, this bike has a suspension with increased travel, modified settings of the power unit for off-road conditions, as well as a kick-starter.

Special attention should be paid to the third modification of the Suzuki DRZ-400, which can be described as follows: a motard version of a road bike with 17-inch wheels, cross fork, reinforced brakes and at the same time reduced suspension travel. It is important to note that all modifications, except the E-version, do not apply to sports high-powered devices. This factor has made them the best options for everyday trips on the roads and the city. The resource of the element base is close to the level of road bikes, which facilitates maintenance.

Possible malfunctions

The first generations of the model are distinguished by the noisy operation of the drive, which is practically impossible to correct independently. Already in subsequent versions, after 2007, the developers eliminated the problem by changing the mechanism of chain tension in the motorcycle. Also, if the oil is not replaced in time, the first gear can be switched on spontaneously. There are also some nuances in the work of the pendants. So, at the rear of the Suzuki DRZ-400 it is recommended to clean and lubricate the progression regularly to prevent creaks. There are also claims to the fork of a bike located in the front part. It is not reliable, therefore it is recommended to install special feather protection.

Positive feedback about the model

The model attracts attention with its price tag, and in the process of operation pleases owners and reliability. As for the cost, the first representatives of the line are available today for 100-130 thousand rubles, which is quite modest against the background of the value of eminent competitors from the enduro class. Reliability is mainly due to the fact that the construction uses high-quality and load-bearing materials. In addition, many people note the wide possibilities for tuning Suzuki DRZ-400. Reviews in this regard mention examples of successful completion of the suspension, and update the brake system, not to mention the structural restyling. By and large, with competent and regular maintenance, the user can count on a decent dynamic performance, and to get rid of the costs of permanent repairs.

Negative feedback

Although the model is positioned as a universal and multi-purpose, in narrow areas of operation, its capabilities may not be enough. For example, off-road fans note that light modifications of this series for full-fledged use in such conditions are not suitable because of the large mass. Conversely, in ordinary urban conditions, the owners feel the discrepancy between the expressed sports design and the standard covering without obstacles. As a serious drawback, many are considering the power potential of the Suzuki DRZ-400, but this concerns only certain versions. Of course, if you want, you can use the same tuning and add a few horsepower to the unit, but buying branded packages for these updates costs a lot of money.

Conclusion

Practice of operation shows that the model is fairly ergonomic and literally oriented to providing the convenience of the rider. This applies not only to the design with the suspension and the location of the rudder relative to the saddle, but also the handling. The Suzuki DRZ-400 engine in combination with a five-speed gearbox allows the bike to confidently overcome forest trails, sports tracks, city streets and cross roads.

In this case, do not forget about the limitations caused by the medium thrust, and the traditional enduro design. Again, the considerable weight of a motorcycle is unlikely to contribute to a dynamic driving in difficult off-road conditions. But as a universal long-range fighter on the track, the bike can claim to be the leader in the segment. The main thing - to decide on a suitable modification. Experienced riders recommend paying attention first of all to the later versions, although in the first copies of this series there are many attractive features. Suffice it to mention the utilitarian framework and ascetic design. Of course, the first generation was not spoiled with power, but it was compensated by the flexibility in the dynamics.