2002 QUICK TESTS-SUZUKI–MAY 16

2002 QUICK TESTS-SUZUKI–MAY 16

SUZUKI RM250
Issue: November 2001
What we thought: The Suzuki is the most improved bike of the year, with excellent power and decent suspension. The bike is still fast-handling and almost impossible to jet cleanly.
Most popular mods: Ceet seat foam. Race gas.
Bottom line: This would have been the best bike of 2000. In 2002, it?s overshadowed by the CR and YZ.

SUZUKI RM125
Issue: October 2001
What we thought: A great package with an easy-to-use motor and sharp handling. The suspension could be balanced better, but we won?t complain if you don?t. The most common failures are clutch baskets and transmission bearings.
Most popular mods: Ceet seat foam, Hinson or Stormin? Norman clutch basket.
Bottom line: Half our testers choose it as the best 125 of the year.

SUZUKI RM85
Issue: April 2002
What we thought: Suzuki has always had the best motor in terms of torque and hop-up potential. The 2002 version gets even more power and an all-new frame and suspension to match. The result is a bike that is great for beginners and competitive against experts.
Most popular mods: Race Tech suspension, Kawasaki KX85 D Carb.
Bottom line: Suzuki leap-frogged the entire class to become the best stock 85 you can buy.

SUZUKI DRZ400
Issue: February 2002
What we thought: Suzuki?s electric-start DRZ is the rightful heir to the XR400s tight-trail kingdom. It has a pleasant, throaty powerband and will still haul when it needs to. For hard racing, however, the bike is just too heavy.
Most popular mods: FMF Q Pipe, Ceet seat foam.
Bottom line: There?s a need for good trail bikes, and the Suzuki fills it perfectly.