Suzuki continues to fill market needs with its DR200S and DR-Z125L. Both return for 2015, with the DR200S receiving a few noteworthy updates too boot.
Face it, these aren’t the two flashiest motorcycles that will ever wear the Suzuki logo, but they might be two of the most important.
That’s because the Suzuki DR200S and DR-Z125L provide a crucial entry point into the market for potential motorcycle enthusiasts who may not yet know they are enthusiasts. For while the next Ricky Carmichael’s path to success involves a lot of nurturing and clear stepping stones in terms of the models that will be used to get there, the average person might not want to race motocross or off-road (perish the thought!), but enjoying casual off-road riding fun on a lightweight and strong yet simple and reliable motorcycle might be their path to enlightnment. And as those of us who ride already know, it doesn’t matter which path you choose so long as you make the journey. In our book, that makes the 2015 Suzuki DR200S and DR-Z125L as soulful as any high-tech Dual Sport or off-road motorcycle sold today.
2015 Suzuki DR200S
But there is more to the revised DR200S than just flashy panels. Suzuki engineers have introduced a newly shaped seat that integrates naturally with the bike’s redesigned fuel tank to provide better comfort during street rides and better cornering control in the dirt. Suzuki says that the ergonomics update is intended to make the DR200S a better fit to a wider range of riders. The DR’s 3.4-gallon fuel tank and 105 mpg estimated fuel economy mean that you’ll get a lot of riding enjoyment out of this frugal Dual Sport machine between stops at the gas station.
The SR200S’ 199cc air-cooled four-stroke engine is compact by design, helping to keep the bike light and maneuverable, yet Suzuki says that it makes ample torque to handle dirt trails, and its smooth top-end power allows for competent open-road riding. The DR’s cylinder is plated with the same Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) for durability and drag reduction. Add front disc brakes, pre-load adjustable rear suspension, and push-button electric start, and the DR200S offers a solid combination of simplicity and modern conveniences. MSRP is $4,199.
2015 Suzuki DR200S Specifications
Engine: 199 cc (12.1 cu. in), 4-stroke, air-cooled, OHC
Bore x Stroke: 66.0 mm x 58.2 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
Fuel System: Mikuni BST31SS, single
Ignition: Electronic (Transistorized)
Spark Plug: NGK DR8EA or Denso X24ESR-U
Starter: Electric
Lubrication: Wet sump
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: DID 520 chain
Front Suspension: Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Rear Suspension: Link type, coil spring, oil damped
Front Brake: Disc
Rear Brake: Drum
Front Tire 70/100-21M/C 44P, tube type
Rear Tire: 100/90-18M/C 56P, tube type
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.3 US (3.2 for California)
Headlight: 12V, 60W
Tail Light: 12V, 21/5W
Overall Length: 2155 mm (84.6 in.)
Overall Width: 805 mm (31.7 in.)
Overall Height: 1140 mm (46.7 in.)
Wheelbase: 1405 mm (55.3 in.)
Ground Clearance: 255 mm (10.2 in.)
Seat Height: 845 mm (31.9 in.)
Claimed Curb Weight: 126 kg (278 lbs.)
Color: Champion Yellow or Solid Black
MSRP: $4,199
Warranty: 12 months, unlimited mileage limited warranty.
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