Off-road the suspension is comfortable
and can handle most terrain effortlessly
if it’s attacked at a sensible speed. The
handling is easy and on the slow side of
things. Basically, the whole package is
non-intimidating, just the kind of thing for
riders who want to get about their riding
in a relaxed way. That’s not to say you
can’t hustle along pretty damn
well if you want to! On gravel it’s
comparatively light in weight which
makes for quick and comfortable
travel. Around town it’s nimble
and quick at cut and thrust
manoeuvring, while on the road it will
happily cruise at 100km/h. And for lane
splitting it’s an absolute doddle.
I think it’s fair to say that I like Suzuki’s
DR-Z250. It’s practical, easy to ride and
Capable; inexpensive; reliable
Steering lock is a pain
basically bullet proof. It appeals to the
farming Kiwi in me. The handling, power,
brakes and ergonomics are almost perfect
for all those wanting a modest, all purpose
trail bike/dual sport. Then when you take a
look at the price and realise that it’s not only
handsome in a ‘Suzuki-of-old kind’ of way,
it’s bloody well priced too at $7499. While
it’s not a honed scalpel at the cutting edge
of technology, the DR-Z offers axe-
standard reliability that you
know is going to just keep
going and going.
The handling, power,
brakes and ergonomics
are almost perfect for
all those wanting a
modest, all purpose trail
bike/dual sport
KIWI RIDER 63