2009 Suzuki DR-Z125/L Review

Introduction

These two models practically make the Suzuki off-road lineup as this manufacturer has decided to concentrate more on the dual-sport segment and neglect the much-needed improvements or even completely new additions of bikes derived from motocross models.

So while the other three big Japanese manufacturers have caught the big wave, Suzuki has to work with what they got and we must admit that for some, this might just be enough.

To begin, the 2009 Suzuki DR-Z125 and 125L are light, decently powered and handle sharply, making them perfect for all-sized starter and experienced riders, although you won’t be wrong if you ask what’s with that drum front brake on the simple model.

History

2003 Suzuki DR-Z125

Well, probably the answer will come when skimming the short Suzuki DR-Z125 history.

The bikes would have made a first entry on the highly competitive off-road scene at the end of 2002 as 2003 model years and they were packed with pretty much everything you can find on them in the present day: a kick started, carbureted, air-cooled 124cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, SOHC 2-valve engine developing 12 hp at an impressive 9,500rpm and 10 Nm at 8,600rpm. The powerplant sited on the same steel frame and swingarm while the heavy-duty suspensions (long-travel, oil-damped front fork and link-type rear unit) made for a smooth introduction on the rough terrain. For that time, the front and rear drum brakes of the simple model were nothing out of the ordinary as long as Suzuki didn’t wanted to stand out with something more modern but not necessary such as a front disc brake. That could be found on the 2003 Suzuki DR-Z125L

The styling was inspired on the RM-Z racing models and the bikes were cheap so, by checking these qualities, they were more than decent and affordable ways to get on riding.

2004 brought the exterior refinements consisting in redesigned side panels, white colored number plates and new graphics, but, mechanically, both bikes remained the same.

For 2005, the Suzuki DR-Z125 added a brand new Blue color scheme while the “L” model remained faithful to the Yellow scheme. Still, both models featured two-tone seats and new graphics.

Nothing changed in 2006, but in 2007 Suzuki added the Black color scheme for both models. That was carried on to 2008 and 2009, ending up having to two identical looking bikes (excepting their different sizes) Yellow and Black colored.

Because the Japanese maker hasn’t concentrated on improving these two models ever since their introduction, there hasn’t been a decent opportunity to get rid of that front drum brake on the simple model so I guess it is just a matter of motivation. After all, the bike didn’t add weight or horsepower so it seems logical not to upgrade that…but it looks old.

Competition

2009 Yamaha TT-R125E

Yamaha uses the same recipe and manages to become the main competitor for Suzuki as it offers two alternatives, the 2009 TT-R125E and TT-R125LE. Both bikes are powered by an electrically-started air-cooled, 124cc, SOHC 4-stroke, two-valves engine fed through a Mikuni VM20 carburetor and, like the DR-Z models, they feature constant-mesh 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch transmissions.

Also, the “E” model rides on 17-front and 14-inch rear wheels supported by long-travel suspension. The seat is low (less than 30.5 inches) and the ground clearance more than decent (10 inches). MSRP is $2,699

The “LE” model is a step up bike with its 19-front and 16-inch rear wheels and, of course, the 220 mm front disc brake. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price in this case is $2,999.

Could things be more obvious? Suzuki and Yamaha stand for hard decisions to take so if you simply through a coin and head the indicated way you won’t be wrong.

2009 Yamaha TT-R125LE

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