The Suzuki DR-Z400S 2009 : Reviews, First Ride, and Specs

The Suzuki DR-Z400S 2009 :The Suzuki DR-Z400S is one of the most popular middle-weight dual-sports and one of the main reaons Suzuki sponsored the AMA . The DR-Z isn't meant for long road trips along the highway, and the Dunlop 606 tires we spooned on aren't either. However, the 400S can handle it if you can. Bear Camp Road is a blast, but we constantly wanted to leave the pavement and go exploring on the network of surrounding logging roads. The DOHC motor keeps things interesting but aftermarket companies have developed tons of product to boost performanceWith demand for affordable, versatile transportation at a premium, Suzuki has done well to leave the DR-Z400S alone." WRONG!!!! Why apologize for Suzuki's shortcomings? Suzuki should have updated the trans to a 6 speed (or at least a wider spread 5 speed), fixed the niggling engine/trans problems once and for all, and put a bigger tank and a more reasonable seat on it! Years ago. Suzuki has done essentially NOTHING to improve this bike compared to the 2003 I owned. Those simple changes would make it a far more versatile and enjoyable dualsport. AS IT IS, most committed 400S owners end up sinking another $1,000 into a larger tank, a Corbin or similar seat, real engine and radiator guards. Your rationalization about the seat is ridiculous - almost all 400S owners would give up a little "MX" functionality for a comfortable seat. Just to illustrates Suzuki's idiotic approach, essentially the same seat is provided on the DR650, a bike with absolutely no "MX" pretensions. The 400S "MX" seat was born from marketing hype, and in spite of years of negative customer feedback the same dismal crap turns up year after year

Horsepower:
30.95 HP @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
23.43 lb-ft. @ 6400 rpm
Engine:
4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC
Curb Weight:
317 lbs
MSRP:
$5599.00