There aren’t many supermoto motorcycles to choose from, and that has helped keep the venerable Suzuki DR-Z400SM viable 16 years after its introduction. Despite few updates, Solid Black replaces Solid Iron Gray this year as a color choice—the platform remains viable and popular.
Based on the Suzuki DR-Z400S dual-sport motorcycle, the 2021 Suzuki DR-Z400SM features 17-inch wire-spoke wheels with Dunlop Sportmax D208 tires, plus fully adjustable suspension with an inverted fork and linkage-assisted shock. There’s a 300mm disc up front to slow down the 321-pound motorcycle, and do stoppies, if you’re so inclined.
The DOHC single-cylinder motor is liquid-cooled and has electric start. However, it sticks with a 36mm Mikuni carburetor, a testament to the age of the design. This also means that the motor is fully sorted out, and there are plenty of available modifications to extract more power.
The 2021 Suzuki DR-Z400SM is a friendly ride, and a newer rider who can handle the 35-inch seat height will find it a satisfying ride. Experienced riders will enjoy its wheelying capabilities and willingness to back into corners, as needed.
2021 Suzuki DR-Z400SM Specs
ENGINE
- Type: Four-stroke single
- Displacement: 398cc
- Bore x stroke: 90.0 x 62.6 mm
- Compression ratio: 11.3:1
- Valvetrain: DOHC; 4 valves
- Fueling: 36mm Mikuni BSR carburetor
- Cooling: Liquid
- Lubrication: Dry sump
- Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
- Final drive: RK 520 KZO chain
CHASSIS
- Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable damping Showa inverted fork; 10.2 inches
- Rear suspension: Linkage-assisted fully adjustable shock; 10.9 inches
- Wheels: Wire spoke w/ aluminum Excel rims
- Front wheel: 17 x 3.50
- Rear wheel: 17 x 4.50
- Tires: Dunlop Sportmax D208
- Front tire: 120/70 x 17
- Rear tire 140/70 x 17
- Front brake: 300mm floating disc w/ 2-piston caliper
- Rear brake: 240mm disc w/ single-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 57.5 inches
- Rake: 26.2 degrees
- Trail: 3.7 inches
- Ground clearance: 10.2 inches
- Seat height: 35.0 inches
- Fuel tank capacity: 2.6 gallons
- Curb weight: 321 pounds
- Colors: Solid Special White No. 2; Solid Iron Gray
2021 Suzuki DR-Z400SM Price: $7399 MSRP
