2012 Suzuki DR-Z 400 S | Preview

2012 Suzuki Dual Sport

In 2003, Suzuki introduced the DR-Z 400 S, a dual-sport motorcycle that replaced the popular DR 350 S.

The completely street-legal trail bike arrived with a compact and reliable 398cc, single-cylinder motor that had strong low-range power for the off-road, and long-travel suspension that was capable of handling even the roughest of terrain.

Throughout the years, the Suzuki DRZ400S became more technologically advanced, as can be observed on the latest edition, the 2012 model. Some of the technology instilled in the street and trail Suzuki DR-Z400S are the forged aluminum piston and digitally mapped DC-CDI system that monitors throttle position/engine rpm, just to name a new.

But to keep the price-point low and maintenance easy, Suzuki offers the DR-Z400S with basic, no nonsense parts, such as a Mikuni 36mm carburetor, a clutch with a separate outer cover, and quick-release 6-liter airbox.

And due to getting 65 mpg, the Suzuki DR-Z400S is also popular as a daily commuter. But the DRZ400S works best for what it was meant to do – provide a reliable platform for those trails far away from society.

For 2012, the Suzuki DR-Z 400 S is available in one color – solid black.

Following are the highlights, specs and MSRP for the 2012 Suzuki DR-Z400S:

2012 Suzuki DR-Z 400 S Highlights:

Suzuki DR-Z400S Engine Features

  • A compact design, 398cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, dry-sump engine produces strong low-RPM power. Its compact 4-valve cylinder head features large 36mm intake valves and 29mm exhaust valves help produce broad, tractable power and torque ready for any terrain.
  • Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) cylinder for durable, lightweight and provides superior heat transfer.
  • Forged aluminum piston is 10 percent lighter than a cast piston and receives additional oil-cooling to the piston crown through a crankcase oil jet.
  • A Mikuni 36mm carburetor fed by a 6-liter airbox provides smooth throttle response. The left side cover has quick-release fasteners for easy access to the air filter.
  • Electric start system provides convenient operation and features a lightweight starter motor and a compact 6.5 amp maintenance-free battery.
  • Magnesium-alloy clutch, magneto and cam covers contribute to weight reduction.
  • Digitally mapped DC-CDI system monitors throttle position/engine rpm and adjusts ignition timing to maintain efficient combustion.

Suzuki DR-Z400S Transmission Features

  • A compact 5-speed transmission utilizes a cable-operated clutch with separate outer cover for simplified clutch maintenance.

Suzuki DR-Z400S Chassis Features

  • A narrow frame combines thin chrome-moly steel tubes for exceptional torsional rigidity with minimal weight. The backbone tube, front down tube and steering head gussets form the dry-sump engine oil tank. A bolt-on aluminum subframe helps reduce weight and simplify maintenance.
  • Long travel (11.3 in), 49mm cartridge-style forks with protective rubber boots, feature adjustable compression/rebound damping and adjustable spring preload for smooth performance on all types of on/off-road terrain.
  • Rear shock absorber features 11.6 in of travel, compression damping/preload adjustments and connects to a lightweight aluminum swingarm through a progressive linkage system.
  • Sure stopping power is supplied by a 250mm front disc with dual-piston caliper and a 220mm rear disc brake with a single-piston caliper.
  • Compact digital instrument cluster with speedometer, odometer, twin-trip meters with addition/subtraction capability, clock, timer and stopwatch functions.
  • Compact digital instrument cluster with speedometer, odometer, twin-trip meters with addition/subtraction capability, clock, timer and stopwatch functions.
  • On-road legal lighting with bright 60/55 watt H4 halogen headlight, compact tail/stoplight, lightweight, rubber-mounted turn signals and horn.
  • A pouch on the rear fender carries tool kit and the owner’s manual.

2012 Suzuki DR-Z400S Specs:

Engine:

  • Bore X Stroke: 90.0 X 62.6 mm (3.543 X 2.465 in)
  • Displacement: 398cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, DOHC
  • Compression Ratio: 11.3 : 1
  • Fuel System: MIKUNI BSR36, single
  • Starter: Electric
  • Lubrication System: Dry Sump
  • Ignition: Electronic ignition (CDI)
  • MPG: 65

 

Chassis/Brakes

  • Overall Length: 2310 mm (90.9 in)
  • Overall Width: 875 mm (34.4 in)
  • Wheelbase: 1485 mm (58.5 in)
  • Ground Clearance: 300 mm (11.8 in)
  • Seat Height: 935 mm (36.8 in)
  • Curb Weight: 144 kg (317 lbs)
  • Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
  • Final Drive: Chain RK520KZ0, 112 links
  • Suspension Front: Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
  • Suspension Rear : Link type, coil spring, oil damped
  • Front Fork Stroke: 288 mm (11.3 in)
  • Front Wheel Travel: 288 mm (11.3 in)
  • Rear Wheel Travel: 295 mm (11.6 in)
  • Brakes Front: Disc brake
  • Brakes Rear: Disc brake
  • Tires Front: 80/100-21 M/C 51P, tube type
  • Tires Rear: 120/90-18 M/C 65P, tube type
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.0 L (2.6 US gallons)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: California 9.5 L (2.5 US gallons)
  • Warranty: 12 month unlimited mileage limited warranty.

2012 Suzuki DR-Z400S Color Option/MSRP:

  • Solid Black / $6,199

 

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