Suzuki DR-Z400SM - BEST USED BIKES

YEARS SOLD: 2005–present

MSRP NEW: $6,099 ('05) to $7,199 ('16)

BLUE BOOK RETAIL VALUE: $3,350 ('05) to $6,370 ('16)

BASIC SPECS: Based on the DR-Z400S dual-sport, the supermoto-styled 400SM is equipped with 17-inch wheels wearing sport-radial tires for enhanced handling and grip on the street. Front suspension also received a significant upgrade in the form of an inverted Showa cartridge fork derived from the RM250 and its larger-diameter 300mm floating front brake rotor provides greater stopping performance. The 398cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, dry-sump, four-stroke single has remained carbureted all these years and delivers a tractable spread of power through a five-speed gearbox.

WHY IT'S DESIRABLE: The fun factor of flogging a lightweight supermoto single through the urban jungle or shredding a tight twisting back road is simply intoxicating. From errand runner to short-range commuter to weekend playbike, the DR-Z400SM offers all that and more at a significantly more affordable price than many of the European-built models populating the niche. The bike's ease of maintenance, solid reliability, and robust aftermarket support all add to its appeal.

THE COMPETITION: Riding the crest of the supermoto boom in the heyday of AMA Red Bull and X Games Supermoto, the 400SM targeted the street market with little pretense of being a race-ready platform. While no performance match for competition-focused bikes from KTM, Husqvarna, TM, or modified Japanese MX bikes, Suzuki has delivered the supermoto riding experience to the masses.