Quick Ride

Quick Ride

SUZUKI DR200SE Entry-level entertainment

IT'S PERKY. IT'S USER-friendly. It says, "Fireroads are our friends." It's Suzuki's DR200SE, and this spunky little dual-purpose motorcycle is apparently here to stay. After replacing the DR250SE in Suzuki's 1996 lineup, the 200 has influenced plenty of buyers and made loads of friends-particularly those in the new-rider category.

This has become even more true this year, as the DR125the bike on which the DR200 is based-is noticeably absent from Suzuki's `97 line. Now, the 200 serves as the compa ny's sole entry-level dual-pur pose model, a role for which it fortunately is well prepared. From its electric starter to its low, 32-inch-high seat and light, 251-pound dry weight, the DR positively embraces the tentative and small-in-stature. Unchanged from its freshman

format, the DR200 is powered by an air-cooled, sohc, 199cc four-stroke Single that breathes through a 31mm Mikuni carbu retor and puts its claimed 20 horsepower to the rear wheel via

a five-speed transmission. But while its specifications won’t steal any headlines, the DR is capable of far more than those figures suggest.

To its credit, the little Suzuki conquered most off-road obsta-

cles without complaint. Granted, the Showa fork and single shock have no damping adjustments (the shock has a springpreload adjuster), but both do an acceptable job of absorbing

the small bumps and rocks that inhabit dirt roads. Should an unexpected boulder or a gnarly rut take the neophyte rider by surprise, the DR’s single front disc and drum rear brakes will haul it to a stop with little fuss. And with knobby tires and lower gearing, the DR would work even better off-road.

True to its billing, the DR’s positive off-road traits segue successfully to city streets. It’s also a reasonably competent freeway commuter, though given its lazy acceleration and approximate 70-mph top speed, remaining in the right lane is wise. (Some states, in fact, consider the DR’s engine too small for legal freeway use.) At highway speeds, the rider will notice a little vibration though the seat, footpegs and handgrips, but overall, the riding position is quite comfortable, especially by dirtbike standards. The DR is obviously intended for smaller riders, however, and those close to 6feet tall will feel a bit scrunched. On a positive note, the reach to the non-adjustable clutch and brake levers isn’t excessive, which should be appreciated by those with small hands.

But the best thing about the DR200 is that while it is every bit as unintimidating as the DR 125, it offers much more zip and oomph. In a nutshell, this $3799 bike is a beginner’s machine that the beginner won’t soon outgrow. Wendy F. Black