Suzuki DR-400S

The Specs

Price: $6099
Engine/trans: 398-cc liquid-cooled single/5M
Horsepower: 35
Weight: 317 pounds
Suspension travel, F/R: 11.3/11.6 inches Seat height: 36.8 inches
0–60 mph: 5.9 seconds
1/4-mile: 14.72 seconds @ 83.72 mph
60–0 braking: 133.95 feet
Fuel economy: 46.68 mpg

The Good

• It has nearly all the punch of the high-powered KTM, so it can keep up with highway traffic. The power allows you to effortlessly work the rear end in the dirt. But it’s as docile as the smaller bikes. The DR-Z400S was the only bike here with vibration-damping rubber foot-peg inserts.

The suspension’s initial compliance did a solid job smoothing out the bumps. And this bike has been around for a while, so there’s tremendous aftermarket support.

The Not-So-Good

• It’s the heaviest bike here, and the high center of gravity combines with the tall seat to create a struggle for shorter riders. For serious off-road duty, it needs more aggressive tires. Some noticed a sharp, uncomfortable edge in the seat foam.

The Bottom Line

• A terrific all-around motorcycle that can be modified to suit almost any rider taller than about five-foot eight.

Best Suited For

• Beginner to expert.