The Suzuki DRZ400SM remains one of the most iconic and popular factory street-legal supermotos worldwide, especially beloved for its reliability, versatility, and ease of ownership. After a year of daily riding, light thrashing, and regular city commutes, here’s why the DRZ400SM is still a top pick for both beginners and veterans looking for a true all-rounder in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Engine, Transmission & Performance
- Engine: 398cc single-cylinder, four-stroke (carbureted, DOHC), compression ratio 11.3:1
- Power Delivery: More torque and horsepower than the WR250X, but still modest by modern standards—gets the job done for energetic city and weekend riding
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox—less modern than WR250X’s six-speed, but often more fuel-efficient and easier to maintain
- Top Speed: Struggles beyond 120 km/h, becoming noticeably vibratory at high speeds
Despite its age and basic tech, the DRZ400SM’s tried-and-tested engine is renowned for its simplicity, making it easy to wrench at home and indestructible over hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
Suspension, Comfort & Handling
- Front Suspension: Showa forks (not Ohlins as claimed by some sellers); solid but aging, lacking the plushness of newer supermoto rivals
- Rear Suspension: Less refined than Yamaha’s WR250X, but survives urban obstacles and casual off-roading with ease
- Seat & Ergonomics: Curved, low seat makes shifting, cornering, and putting a foot down straightforward; seat is hard and unforgiving on longer rides (“hell on Earth” for extended highway use)
- Handling: Extremely forgiving—easy for both beginners and seasoned riders to flick through traffic or power-slide on open pavement
Daily Practicality
- Fuel Economy: Excellent for the class—expect about 26 km/l, maximizing the small 10L tank for city use
- Durability: Nearly indestructible construction; engines routinely exceed 150,000 km with minimal drama
- Weaknesses: Lacks a fuel gauge or fuel light; standard rubber brake lines, and most accessories will show their age after years of use
Maintenance & Reliability
- Service: Carbureted design is easy to maintain and repair for DIYers; mechanical simplicity appeals to riders who enjoy home servicing over dealer dependency
- Longevity: Survives crashes, tough weather, and poor roads without major failures; perfect for riders valuing long lifespans, low-cost maintenance, and peace of mind
Who Should Buy the Suzuki DRZ400SM?
- Urban riders seeking a practical, fun, and affordable supermoto for city and weekend thrashing
- Beginners looking for a forgiving chassis and predictable handling
- Veteran commuters wanting a bulletproof bike with easy maintenance and indestructible build
- Supermoto fans chasing the “old-school” simplicity and reliability over high-tech complexity
Final Thoughts
The 2006 Suzuki DRZ400SM is still the supermoto everyone recommends for real-world riding, blending classic style, legendary durability, and strong fuel economy in a forgiving, easy-to-love package. For Singapore and Southeast Asia, it remains the benchmark for affordable, fun, and virtually indestructible city supermotos—even if it’s not the fastest or most high-tech in its class.